Safety of synthetic trans‐resveratrol as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 258/97

Ergothioneine promotes longevity and healthy aging in male mice

Healthy aging has emerged as a crucial issue with the increase in the geriatric population worldwide. Food-derived sulfur-containing amino acid ergothioneine (ERGO) is a potential dietary supplement, which exhibits various beneficial effects in experimental animals although the preventive effects of ERGO on aging and/or age-related impairments such as frailty and cognitive impairment are unclear. We investigated the effects of daily oral supplementation of ERGO dissolved in drinking water on lifespan, frailty, and cognitive impairment in male mice from 7 weeks of age to the end of their lives. Ingestion of 4 ~ 5 mg/kg/day of ERGO remarkably extended the lifespan of male mice. The longevity effect of ERGO was further supported by increase in life and non-frailty spans of Caenorhabditis elegans in the presence of ERGO. Compared with the control group, the ERGO group showed significantly lower age-related declines in weight, fat mass, and average and maximum movement velocities at 88 weeks of age. This was compatible with dramatical suppression by ERGO of the age-related increments in plasma biomarkers (BMs) such as the chemokine ligand 9, creatinine, symmetric dimethylarginine, urea, asymmetric dimethylarginine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenine. The oral intake of ERGO also rescued age-related impairments in learning and memory ability, which might be associated with suppression of the age-related decline in hippocampal neurogenesis and TDP43 protein aggregation and promotion of microglial shift to the M2 phenotype by ERGO ingestion. Ingestion of ERGO may promote longevity and healthy aging in male mice, possibly through multiple biological mechanisms.

Effects of Nasal Solution Incorporating Resveratrol and Carboxymethyl-Β-Glucan in Preschool Non-Atopic Children with Wheezing

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) account for more than 80% of wheezing episodes in children with a high incidence of hospitalization in preschool age. Most children with symptoms of wheezing during an URTI are usually non-atopic. As the majority of wheezing episodes resulting from URTI are attributed to viral triggers, several studies have suggested the potential anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties of resveratrol. This study aims to identify the effect of resveratrol for pediatric non-atopic patients with recurrent wheezing triggered by URTIs. We conducted a prospective single-blind study to assess the effectiveness of a short course of nasal solutions incorporating resveratrol and carboxymethyl-β-glucan, administered for 7 days at the onset of URTIs, compared to standard nasal lavage with 0.9% saline solution. A total of 19 patients entered the active group, 20 patients were assigned to the placebo group. The comparison of overall wheezing days (p < 0.001), mean wheezing days per month (p < 0.01), and wheezing episodes per patient (p < 0.001) in the two groups showed a significant reduction in the group receiving resveratrol compared with the placebo group, with less hospital access (p < 0.001) and oral corticosteroid administration (p < 0.01). Our findings seem to suggest that, in non-atopic children with recurrent wheezing secondary to URTIs, nasal resveratrol could be effective to prevent or reduce the occurrence of wheezing, when started from the onset of upper airway symptoms.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Quillaja saponaria Molina and Yucca schidigera Roezl ex Ortgies (Magni-PHI®) for all poultry species (to slaughter age/weight, or to the point of lay) and ornamental birds (Phibro Animal Health Corporation)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Quillaja saponaria powder and Yucca schidigera powder (Magni-Phi®) for all avian species (to slaughter age/weight, or to the point of lay) and ornamental birds, as a zootechnical additive (digestibility enhancer and other zootechnical additives). The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that the additive is safe for chickens for fattening at the level of 250 mg/kg complete feed with a margin of safety of 20 assuming that the additive contains 3.58% of saponins. This conclusion was extrapolated to all growing poultry species and ornamental birds. The Panel concluded that the use of the feed additive in animal nutrition at 250 mg/kg complete feed is of no concern for the safety for the consumer and the environment. The Panel also concluded that the additive is not irritant to skin, but irritant to the eyes and to the respiratory system. Due to the lack of data, the FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. The FEEDAP Panel was not in the position to conclude on the efficacy of the additive for all poultry species and ornamental birds.

Natural Compounds for Bone Remodeling: A Computational and Experimental Approach Targeting Bone Metabolism-Related Proteins

Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone density and increased fracture risk, affects over 200 million people worldwide, predominantly older adults and postmenopausal women. The disruption of the balance between bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts underlies osteoporosis pathophysiology. Standard treatment includes lifestyle modifications, calcium and vitamin D supplementation and specific drugs that either inhibit osteoclasts or stimulate osteoblasts. However, these treatments have limitations, including side effects and compliance issues. Natural products have emerged as potential osteoporosis therapeutics, but their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of natural compounds in modulating molecular targets relevant to osteoporosis, focusing on the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathway and the gut microbiome's influence on bone homeostasis. Using an in silico and in vitro methodology, we have identified quercetin as a promising candidate in modulating MAPK activity, offering a potential therapeutic perspective for osteoporosis treatment.

Greenness Assessment and Validation of HPLC Method for Simultaneous Determination of Resveratrol and Vitamin E in Dietary Supplements

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing interest in the use of a combination of trans-resveratrol and vitamin E in dietary supplements. Determination of the content of both components is essential for confirmation of the quality of the product.

OBJECTIVE

To establish the applicability and ensure the greenness of the previously developed high-throughput HPLC/UV method for the simultaneous determination of trans-resveratrol and alpha-tocopherol acetate (vitamin E) in dietary supplements.

METHOD

Separation was performed on RP C8 Select B chromatographic column, using acetonitrile and water in the mobile phase, with gradient elution. Full method validation was performed in accordance with ICH Q2(R1). The greenness of the method was assessed using the analytical eco-scale (AES) methodology and the analytical greenness metric (AGREE).

RESULTS

The method is selective, linear, precise, and accurate over defined concentration ranges (185-369 µg/mL of trans-resveratrol and 37-75 µg/mL of alpha-tocopherol acetate), and it has a suitable sensitivity (limits of detection and quantification are 7.7 and 23.3 µg/mL for resveratrol and 2.6 and 7.8 µg/mL for tocopherol acetate, respectively). The obtained analytical eco-scale score of 77 and the pale green AGREE pictogram with an overall score of 0.61 confirm the method's greenness.

CONCLUSIONS

The sensitivity and selectivity of the method, its short analysis time (7 min), the low negative environmental impact, and the simple sample preparation make the method readily applicable to inline quality control procedures.

HIGHLIGHTS

A method for simultaneously analyzing vitamin E and resveratrol in dietary supplements is presented. The method is rapid, includes a simple sample preparation procedure, and has a low environmental impact.

Effects of Simulated Gastrointestinal Conditions on Combined Potentially Probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum 296, Quercetin, and/or Resveratrol as Bioactive Components of Novel Nutraceuticals

This study evaluated the effects of simulated gastrointestinal conditions (SGIC) on combined potentially probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum 296 (~ 10 log CFU/mL), quercetin (QUE, 160 mg), and/or resveratrol (RES, 150 mg) as the bioactive components of novel nutraceuticals. Four different nutraceuticals were evaluated during exposure to SGIC and analyzed the plate counts and physiological status of L. fermentum 296, contents and bioaccessibility of QUE and RES, and antioxidant capacity. Nutraceuticals with QUE and RES had the highest plate counts (4.94 ± 0.32 log CFU/mL) and sizes of live cell subpopulations (28.40 ± 0.28%) of L. fermentum 296 after SGIC exposure. An index of injured cells (Gmean index, arbitrary unit defined as above 0.5) indicated that part of L. fermentum 296 cells could be entered the viable but nonculturable state when the nutraceuticals were exposed to gastric and intestinal conditions while maintaining vitality. The nutraceuticals maintained high contents (QUE ~ 29.17 ± 0.62 and RES ~ 23.05 mg/100 g) and bioaccessibility (QUE ~ 41.0 ± 0.09% and RES ~ 67.4 ± 0.17%) of QUE and RES, as well as high antioxidant capacity (ABTS assay ~ 88.18 ± 1.16% and DPPH assay 75.54 ± 0.65%) during SGIC exposure, which could be linked to the protective effects on L. fermentum 296 cells. The developed nutraceuticals could cross along the gastrointestinal tract with high concentrations of functioning potentially probiotic cells and bioavailable phenolic compounds to exert their beneficial impacts on consumer health, being an innovative strategy for the co-ingestion of these bioactive components.

Evaluating the Stability of a Novel Nutraceutical Formulation Combining Probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum 296, Quercetin, and Resveratrol Under Different Storage Conditions

This study evaluated the stability of a novel nutraceutical formulation composed of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum 296, quercetin (QUE), and resveratrol (RES) (LFQR) under different storage conditions. The effects of different relative humidities (RH; 11, 22, and 33%) and storage temperatures (refrigeration temperature -4 °C and room temperature -25 °C) on the stability of LFQR were evaluated through the determination of thermal stability, viable cell counts, bacterial physiological status, antioxidant capacity, and contents of QUE and RES during long-term storage. RH did not affect endothermic reactions and mass reduction in LFQR. After a 15-day-humidification period, L. fermentum 296 had higher viable cell counts in LFQR under refrigeration temperature storage when compared to room temperature storage regardless of the RH. The physiological status of L. fermentum 296 in LFQR was overall similar during 90 days of storage (11% RH) under refrigeration and room temperature. L. fermentum 296 had the highest viable cell counts (> 6 log CFU/g) in LFQR up to day 90 of refrigeration storage (11% RH). LFQR kept high contents of QUE and RES and maintained antioxidant capacity during 90 days of storage under refrigeration and room temperature. The results showed that the higher stability and functionality of LFQR during long-term storage should be guaranteed under 11% RH and refrigeration temperature.

Phenolic Compounds Known to Be Present in Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Enhance Macrophage Polarization towards the Anti-Inflammatory M2 Phenotype

Macrophages are pleiotropic immune cells whose phenotype can polarize towards the pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 direction as a response to environmental changes. In obesity, the number of macrophages in adipose tissue is enhanced, and they shift towards the M1 phenotype. Activated M1 macrophages secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines involved in the development of systemic low-grade inflammation, complicating obesity. Polyphenols are widely found in the vegetable kingdom and have anti-inflammatory properties. We and others have recently found that lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) supplementation is able to prevent the development of low-grade inflammation and its metabolic consequences in experimentally induced obesity. In the present study, we investigated the effects of twelve phenolic compounds known to be present in lingonberry (resveratrol, piceid, quercetin, kaempferol, proanthocyanidins, delphinidin, cyanidin, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid) on macrophage polarization, which is a meaningful mechanism determining the low-grade inflammation in obesity. Mouse J774 and human U937 macrophages and commercially available phenolic compounds were used in the studies. Three of the twelve compounds investigated showed an effect on macrophage polarization. Resveratrol, kaempferol, and proanthocyanidins enhanced anti-inflammatory M2-type activation, evidenced as increased expression of Arg-1 and MRC-1 in murine macrophages and CCL-17 and MRC-1 in human macrophages. Resveratrol and kaempferol also inhibited pro-inflammatory M1-type activation, shown as decreased expression of IL-6, NO, and MCP-1 in murine macrophages and TNF-α and IL-6 in human macrophages. In the further mechanistic studies, the effects of the three active compounds were investigated on two transcription factors important in M2 activation, namely on PPARγ and STAT6. Resveratrol and kaempferol were found to enhance PPARγ expression, while proanthocyanidins increased the phosphorylation of STAT6. The results suggest proanthocyanidins, resveratrol, and kaempferol as active constituents that may be responsible for the positive anti-inflammatory effects of lingonberry supplementation in obesity models. These data also extend the previous knowledge on the anti-inflammatory effects of lingonberry and encourage further studies to support the use of lingonberry and lingonberry-based products as a part of a healthy diet.

Selected Plant-Derived Polyphenols as Potential Therapeutic Agents for Peripheral Artery Disease: Molecular Mechanisms, Efficacy and Safety

Vascular diseases, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), are associated with diabetes mellitus and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and even death. Surgical revascularization and pharmacological treatments (mainly antiplatelet, lipid-lowering drugs, and antidiabetic agents) have some effectiveness, but the response and efficacy of therapy are overly dependent on the patient’s conditions. Thus, the demand for new cures exists. In this regard, new studies on natural polyphenols that act on key points involved in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases and, thus, on PAD are of great urgency. The purpose of this review is to take into account the mechanisms that lead to endothelium dysfunction, such as the glycoxidation process and the production of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) that result in protein misfolding, and to suggest plant-derived polyphenols that could be useful in PAD. Thus, five polyphenols are considered, baicalein, curcumin, mangiferin, quercetin and resveratrol, reviewing the literature in PubMed. The key molecular mechanisms and preclinical and clinical studies of each selected compound are examined. Furthermore, the safety profiles of the polyphenols are outlined, together with the unwanted effects reported in humans, also by searching the WHO database (VigiBase).

CoQ10 and Resveratrol Effects to Ameliorate Aged-Related Mitochondrial Dysfunctions

Mitochondria participate in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Firstly, mitochondria regulate energy metabolism through oxidative phosphorylation. In addition, they are involved in cell fate decisions by activating the apoptotic intrinsic pathway. Finally, they work as intracellular signaling hubs as a result of their tight regulation of ion and metabolite concentrations and other critical signaling molecules such as ROS. Aging is a multifactorial process triggered by impairments in different cellular components. Among the various molecular pathways involved, mitochondria are key regulators of longevity. Indeed, mitochondrial deterioration is a critical signature of the aging process. In this scenario, we will focus specifically on the age-related decrease in CoQ levels, an essential component of the electron transport chain (ETC) and an antioxidant, and how CoQ supplementation could benefit the aging process. Generally, any treatment that improves and sustains mitochondrial functionality is a good candidate to counteract age-related mitochondrial dysfunctions. In recent years, heightened attention has been given to natural compounds that modulate mitochondrial function. One of the most famous is resveratrol due to its ability to increase mitochondrial biogenesis and work as an antioxidant agent. This review will discuss recent clinical trials and meta-analyses based on resveratrol and CoQ supplementation, focusing on how these compounds could improve mitochondrial functionality during aging.

Assessment of the Impact of Scientific Reports Published by EFSA and GIS on Functional Foods Newly Placed on the Market in Poland

Dietary supplements are health-promoting products. The legal categorization of dietary supplements as foods does not raise concerns, but a general understanding of how they work in the human body seems to deviate from the official definition. Thus, it is necessary to establish effective methods of market control related to dietary supplements. This research aims at assessing the impact of recommendations by various food safety authorities on ingredients used in newly registered products. It probes how the proportions of utilized product ingredients were modified after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and Chief Sanitary Inspector in Poland (GIS) published their recommendations. Research data on the composition of products comes from the Polish national register of dietary supplements and covers the period from 2012 to 28 November 2021. Note that 103,102 products were analysed for the presence of thirty-seven ingredients, and the joinpoint regression method was applied to assess changing trends related to the use of ingredients. As our research points out, most often, changes in the trend appeared in product ingredients for which the European Food Safety Authority and Chief Sanitary Inspector in Poland issued the recommendation of having the safest level of consumption. However, these changes seem to emerge randomly and should not be unquestionably considered as the result of the published recommendations.

Resveratrol for Weight Loss in Obesity: An Assessment of Randomized Control Trial Designs in ClinicalTrials.gov

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that may improve weight loss outcomes in obese individuals. However, assessing the effectiveness of resveratrol supplementations as an appropriate intervention for weight loss in obesity across randomized control trials (RCTs) has been complicated by variability in their design. This study aims to evaluate design elements across RCTs of resveratrol interventions in obesity with weight loss as an end-point outcome, as recorded in ClinicalTrials.gov. We found discrepancies in participant inclusion criteria (sample size, age ranges, sex, BMI, medical conditions), interventional design (delivery modalities, dosages, duration) and primary outcomes measured (anthropomorphic, blood biomarkers). We identified a near three-fold variation in study sample size, two-fold variation in minimum inclusion age, five modalities of therapeutic resveratrol delivery with interventional durations ranging from two weeks to six months. Weight loss was only identified as a primary outcome in three of the seven studies evaluated. In conclusion, heterogeneity in trial design using resveratrol suggests that weight-loss-related outcomes are difficult to interpret and cross-validate. Indeed, conclusions drawn from human studies have been inconsistent, which may be attributed to study design heterogeneity including major differences in sample population, age, sex, BMI, underlying health conditions and end-point measures.

Toxicological Evaluation of Piceatannol, Pterostilbene, and ε-Viniferin for Their Potential Use in the Food Industry: A Review

The application of stilbenes in the food industry is being considered because of their biological activities. Piceatannol, pterostilbene and ε-viniferin have awakened the industry’s interest. However, before they can be commercialized, we must first guarantee their safety for consumers. The present work reviews the toxicological studies performed with these stilbenes. A wide variety of studies has demonstrated their cytotoxic effects in both cancer and non-cancerous cell lines. In contrast, although DNA damage was detected by some authors, in vitro genotoxic studies on the effects of piceatannol, pterostilbene, and ε-viniferin remain scarce. None of the three reviewed substances have been evaluated using the in vitro tests required by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as the first step in genotoxicity testing. We did not find any study on the toxic effects of these stilbenes in vivo. Thus, more studies are needed to confirm their safe use before they can be authorized as additive in the food industry.

In Vivo Genotoxicity Evaluation of a Stilbene Extract Prior to Its Use as a Natural Additive: A Combination of the Micronucleus Test and the Comet Assay

Genotoxic data of substances that could be used as food additives are required by the European Food Safety Authority. In this sense, the use of an extract from grapevine shoots containing a stilbene richness of 99% (ST-99), due to its antioxidant and antibacterial activities, has been proposed as an alternative to sulfur dioxide in wine. The aim of this work was to study, for the first time, the in vivo genotoxic effects produced in rats orally exposed to 90, 180, or 360 mg ST-99/kg body weight at 0, 24, and 45 h. The combination of micronucleus assay in bone marrow (OECD 474) and standard (OECD 489) and enzyme-modified comet assay was used to determine the genotoxicity on cells isolated from stomach, liver, and blood of exposed animals. The ST-99 revealed no in vivo genotoxicity. These results were corroborated by analytical studies that confirm the presence of stilbenes and their metabolites in plasma and tissues. Moreover, to complete these findings, a histopathological study was performed under light microscopy in liver and stomach showing only slight modifications in both organs at the highest concentration used. The present work confirms that this extract is not genotoxic presenting a good profile for its potential application as a preservative in the wine industry.

Measurement of Saccharin and trans-Resveratrol Metabolites in Urine as Adherence Markers for Small Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplement Consumption

Saccharin and trans-resveratrol were incorporated into small quantity lipid-based nutritional supplements (SQ-LNS) to be evaluated as the markers of consumption for nutritional intervention studies. Forty-seven healthy women consumed a single supplement with either 8.6 mg of saccharin or 5 mg of trans-resveratrol, and urine was collected for 4 h. A rapid 11 min method employing multiple reaction monitoring and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer was developed to measure saccharin and resveratrol metabolites in urine simultaneously. The linear dynamic range of the method was from 3 to 1000 ng mL^-1, with the correlation coefficient of 0.999 and limits of quantification from 15.28 to 53.03 ng mL^-1. Sample preparation was simple dilution with an average recovery of 97.8%. Ion suppression was observed with urine concentrations >10%. Mean levels of saccharin and resveratrol-3-O-sulfate in urine were 5.481 ± 4.359 and 3.440 ± 4.160 nmol L^-1, respectively. We developed and validated a method to measure saccharin and trans-resveratrol metabolites in urine to objectively corroborate the consumption of SQ-LNS for the first time in nutrition intervention studies.

Postulated Adjuvant Therapeutic Strategies for COVID-19

The number of COVID-19 patients is still growing exponentially worldwide due to the high transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Therapeutic agents currently under investigation are antiviral drugs, vaccines, and other adjuvants that could relieve symptoms or improve the healing process. In this review, twelve therapeutic agents that could play a role in prophylaxis or improvement of the COVID-19-associated symptoms (as add-on substances) are discussed. Agents were identified based on their known pharmacologic mechanism of action in viral and/or nonviral fields and are postulated to interact with one or more of the seven known mechanisms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus: (i) regulation of the immune system; (ii) virus entrance in the cell; (iii) virus replication; (iv) hyperinflammation; (v) oxidative stress; (vi) thrombosis; and (vii) endotheliitis. Selected agents were immune transfer factor (oligo- and polypeptides from porcine spleen, ultrafiltered at <10 kDa; Imuno TF®), anti-inflammatory natural blend (Uncaria tomentosa, Endopleura uchi and Haematoccocus pluvialis; Miodesin®), zinc, selenium, ascorbic acid, cholecalciferol, ferulic acid, spirulina, N-acetylcysteine, glucosamine sulfate potassium hydrochloride, trans-resveratrol, and maltodextrin-stabilized orthosilicic acid (SiliciuMax®). This review gives the scientific background on the hypothesis that these therapeutic agents can act in synergy in the prevention and improvement of COVID-19-associated symptoms.

Novel foods in the European Union: Scientific requirements and challenges of the risk assessment process by the European Food Safety Authority

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has been involved in the risk assessment of novel foods since 2003. The implementation of the current novel food regulation in 2018 rendered EFSA the sole entity of the European Union responsible for such safety evaluations. The risk assessment is based on the data submitted by applicants in line with the scientific requirements described in the respective EFSA guidance document. The present work aims to elaborate on the rationale behind the scientific questions raised during the risk assessment of novel foods, with a focus on complex mixtures and whole foods. Novel foods received by EFSA in 2003-2019 were screened and clustered by nature and complexity. The requests for additional or supplementary information raised by EFSA during all risk assessments were analyzed for identifying reoccurring issues. In brief, it is shown that applications concern mainly novel foods derived from plants, microorganisms, fungi, algae, and animals. A plethora of requests relates to the production process, the compositional characterization of the novel food, and the evaluation of the product's toxicological profile. Recurring issues related to specific novel food categories were noted. The heterogeneous nature and the variable complexity of novel foods emphasize the challenge to tailor aspects of the evaluation approach to the characteristics of each individual product. Importantly, the scientific requirements for novel food applications set by EFSA are interrelated, and only a rigorous and cross-cutting approach adopted by the applicants when preparing the respective application dossiers can lead to scientifically sound dossiers. This is the first time that an in-depth analysis of the experience gained by EFSA in the risk assessment of novel foods and of the reasoning behind the most frequent scientific requests by EFSA to applicants is made.

In Contrast to Dietary Restriction, Application of Resveratrol in Mice Does not Alter Mouse Major Urinary Protein Expression

Resveratrol (RSV) supplementation in mice has been discussed as partly mimicking the beneficial effects of dietary restriction (DR). However, data on putative benefits from resveratrol application in mice and other model organisms including humans is contradictory. Mouse major urinary proteins (MUPs) are a family of proteins that are expressed in rodent liver and secreted via urine. Impacting (mating) behavior and pheromone communication, they are severely down-regulated upon DR. We carried out two studies in C57BL/6Rj mice where RSV was either supplemented via diet or injected intraperitoneally for 8 weeks. Contrary to −40% DR, RSV did not decrease total MUP protein expression or Mup (amongst others Mup3, Mup5, Mup6, Mup15, and Mup20) mRNA levels in mouse liver when compared to ad-libitum (AL)-fed controls. Since inhibitory glucocorticoid response elements can be found in Mup promoters, we also measured glucocorticoid receptor (GR) levels in nuclear hepatic extracts. Consistent with differential MUP expression, we observed more nuclear GR in DR mice than in RSV-supplemented and AL control mice with no difference between RSV and AL. These findings point to the notion that, in mice, RSV does not mimic DR in terms of differential MUP expression.

The Heme Oxygenase/Biliverdin Reductase System as Effector of the Neuroprotective Outcomes of Herb-Based Nutritional Supplements

Over the last few years, several preclinical studies have shown that some herbal products, such as ferulic acid, Ginkgo biloba, and resveratrol, exert neuroprotective effects through the modulation of the heme oxygenase/biliverdin reductase system. Unfortunately, sufficient data supporting the shift of knowledge from preclinical studies to humans, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases, are not yet available in the literature. The purpose of this review is to summarize the studies and the main results achieved on the potential therapeutic role of the interaction between the heme oxygenase/biliverdin reductase system with ferulic acid, G. biloba, and resveratrol. Some critical issues have also been reported, mainly concerning the safety profile and the toxicological sequelae associated to the supplementation with the herbs mentioned above, based on both current literature and specific reports issued by the competent Regulatory Authorities.

Inositol and antioxidant supplementation: Safety and efficacy in pregnancy

Pregnancies complicated by diabetes have largely increased in number over the last 50 years. Pregnancy is characterized by a physiologic increase in insulin resistance, which, associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammations, could induce alterations of glucose metabolism and diabetes. If not optimally controlled, these conditions have a negative impact on maternal and foetal outcomes. To date, one can resort only to diet and lifestyle to treat obesity and insulin resistance during pregnancy, and insulin remains the only therapeutic option to manage diabetes during pregnancy. However, in the last years, in a variety of experimental models, inositol and antioxidants supplementation have shown insulin-sensitizing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which could be mediated by some possible complementary mechanism of action. Different isomers and multiple combinations of these compounds are presently available: Aim of the present review article is to examine the existing evidence in order to clarify and/or define the effects of different inositol- and antioxidant-based supplements during pregnancy complicated by insulin resistance and/or by diabetes. This could help the clinician's evaluation and choice of the appropriate supplementation regimen.

Resveratrol, lunularin and dihydroresveratrol do not act as caloric restriction mimetics when administered intraperitoneally in mice

Resveratrol as well as caloric restriction were shown to extend lifespan in some model organisms and may possibly delay onset of ageing-related diseases in humans. Yet, resveratrol supplementation does not always extend lifespan of animal models or improve health status of humans. Because of interindividual differences in human microbiota, resveratrol metabolite production in the gut differs. While some individuals produce lunularin and dihydroresveratrol in their gut, others produce dihydroresveratrol only. Therefore, we addressed the question whether these metabolites differ in their biological impact on ageing and intraperitoneally injected 13-month-old C57BL/6JRj mice on an ad-libitum (AL) HFD with resveratrol, dihydroresveratrol or lunularin (24 mg/kg bodyweight; 3 times/week). Compared to mice injected with vehicle (AL-control), resveratrol and dihydroresveratrol did not change bodyweight and had no impact on insulin or glucose levels while lunularin slightly reduced feed intake and bodyweight gain. CR-mice showed lowered cholesterol, insulin and leptin levels, elevated adiponectin and phosphorylated AMPK levels in liver as well as increased transcription of Pck1 and Pgc1α when compared to the AL-control. In contrast, injections with the test substances did not change these parameters. We therefore conclude that in our model, resveratrol, lunularin and dihydroresveratrol did not act as CR mimetics.

Glyoxalase 1 Modulation in Obesity and Diabetes

Significance: Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are increasing globally. There is also increasing associated complications, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and vascular complications of diabetes. There is currently no licensed treatment for NAFLD and no recent treatments for diabetic complications. New approaches are required, particularly those addressing mechanism-based risk factors for health decline and disease progression. Recent Advances: Dicarbonyl stress is the abnormal accumulation of reactive dicarbonyl metabolites such as methylglyoxal (MG) leading to cell and tissue dysfunction. It is a potential driver of obesity, diabetes, and related complications that are unaddressed by current treatments. Increased formation of MG is linked to increased glyceroneogenesis and hyperglycemia in obesity and diabetes and also down-regulation of glyoxalase 1 (Glo1)-which provides the main enzymatic detoxification of MG. Glo1 functional genomics studies suggest that increasing Glo1 expression and activity alleviates dicarbonyl stress; slows development of obesity, related insulin resistance; and prevents development of diabetic nephropathy and other microvascular complications of diabetes. A new therapeutic approach constitutes small-molecule inducers of Glo1 expression-Glo1 inducers-exploiting a regulatory antioxidant response element in the GLO1 gene. A prototype Glo1 inducer, trans-resveratrol (tRES)-hesperetin (HESP) combination, in corrected insulin resistance, improved glycemic control and vascular inflammation in healthy overweight and obese subjects in clinical trial. Critical Issues: tRES and HESP synergize pharmacologically, and HESP likely overcomes the low bioavailability of tRES by inhibition of intestinal glucuronosyltransferases. Future Directions: Glo1 inducers may now be evaluated in Phase 2 clinical trials for treatment of NAFLD and vascular complications of diabetes.

Resveratrol as an effective adjuvant therapy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: a clinical study

Resveratrol (RSV), a naturally occurring polyphenol, has been found to have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Recently, RSV was reported as a new potential agent to suppress inflammation of collagen-induced arthritis in a mouse model. Nevertheless, the clinical benefits of RSV in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were not studied. This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to shed some light on the therapeutic benefits of RSV in the treatment of RA in patients with different stages of the disease activity. In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 100 RA patients (68 female, 32 male) were enrolled randomly and divided into two groups, each of 50 patients: an RSV-treated group that received a daily RSV capsule of 1 g with the conventional treatment for 3 months and a control group that just received the regular treatment. The clinical and biochemical markers of RA in both groups were assessed. It was found that the clinical markers (i.e., the 28-joint count for swelling and tenderness) and the disease activity score assessment for 28 joints were significantly lowered in the RSV-treated group. Moreover, serum levels of certain biochemical markers (i.e., C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, undercarboxylated osteocalcin, matrix metalloproteinase-3, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-6) were also significantly decreased in RSV-treated patients. The current study suggests the addition of RSV as an adjuvant to the conventional antirheumatic drugs.

Effects of nutrient and bioactive food components on Alzheimer's disease and epigenetic

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly and is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that is becoming widespread. For this reason, in recent years factors affecting the development, progression and cognitive function of the AD have been emphasized. Nutrients and other bioactive nutrients are among the factors that are effective in AD. In particular, vitamins A, C and E, vitamins B₁, B₆ and B₁₂, folate, magnesium, choline, inositol, anthocyanins, isoflavones etc. nutrients and bioactive nutrients are known to be effective in the development of AD. Nutrients and nutrient components may also have an epigenetic effect on AD. At the same time, nutrients and bioactive food components slow down the progression of the disease. For this reason, the effect of nutrients and food components on AD was examined in this review.

Beneficial effects of combined resveratrol and metformin therapy in treating diet-induced insulin resistance

The polyphenol compound resveratrol (RSV) has attracted attention due to its reputed beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity. Our lab has previously identified protective effects of RSV against the development of type 2 diabetes in rats. These effects occurred in a manner similar to thiazolidinedione's (TZDs), a class of insulin sensitizing drugs. TZDs are commonly prescribed in combination with metformin (MET) and thus we sought to examine the combined effects of RSV and MET in treating insulin resistance. Male C57BL6 mice were fed a low‐ (LFD; 10% Kcal from fat) or high‐fat diet (HFD; 60% Kcal from fat) for 9 weeks to induce glucose and insulin intolerance. HFD mice were then assigned to control (HFD), MET (231.28 ± 12.24 mg/kg/day), RSV (93.68 ± 3.51 mg/kg/day), or combined (COM; MET 232.01 ± 17.12 mg/kg/day and RSV 92.77 ± 6.92 mg/kg/day) treatment groups. Changes in glucose and insulin tolerance and tissue‐specific insulin signaling were measured 4 weeks post‐treatment. RSV or MET alone did not have beneficial effects on glucose tolerance, although MET significantly improved insulin tolerance compared to HFD. Glucose and insulin tolerance were significantly improved in COM compared to HFD and this was mirrored by enhanced insulin‐stimulated AKT phosphorylation in triceps muscle and inguinal subcutaneous adipose tissue in COM compared to HFD mice. Improvements with COM treatment were not explained by differences in body weight, adiposity, or markers of adipose tissue inflammation. In summary, this study provides evidence of beneficial effects of combined RSV and MET therapy in treating impairments in glucose homeostasis.

The effect of resveratrol on hypertension: A clinical trial

The aim of this clinical trial was to investigate the effects of Evelor, a micronized formulation of resveratrol (RESV; 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), in patients with primary hypertension. RESV is a stilbenoid and phytoalexin produced by several plants in response to injury or attack by pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi. Patients included in the clinical trial were split into the following two groups, based on the severity of their disease: Group A (n=46), stage I hypertension [systolic blood pressure (SBP), 140-159 mmHg; diastolic blood pressure (DBP), 90-99 mmHg] and Group B (n=51), stage II hypertension (SBP, 160-179 mmHg; DBP, 100-109 mmHg). Each group was divided into two subgroups: A1 and B1, patients treated with standard antihypertensive therapy (A1, 10 mg Dapril; B1, 20 mg Dapril), and A2 and B2, patients treated with antihypertensive therapy (Dapril) plus Evelor. The present study aimed to determine the effects of Evelor, in addition to the standard hypertension treatment, and its effect on the hepatic enzymes serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (gamma-GT). Following the trial, which lasted two years (October 2010 to October 2012), the mean blood pressure of both groups lay within the normal range, indicating that blood pressure was efficiently controlled. The results of the present study demonstrate that the addition of RESV to standard antihypertensive therapy is sufficient to reduce blood pressure to normal levels, without the need for additional antihypertensive drugs. In addition, statistical analysis of the results identified a significant reduction in plasma concentration levels of SGPT (P<0.001) and gamma-GT (P<0.001) with the addition of RESV, indicating that RESV prevents liver damage.