Antioxidant activity of phytoestrogenic isoflavones

Enhanced in-vitro bioavailability of curcumin, lutein and isoflavones through interaction with spearmint (Mentha spicata) via its bioactive component (R)-(-)-carvone

Numerous dietary phytochemicals such as curcumin, lutein and isoflavones are associated with health beneficial activities, however their application is often limited by their low bioavailability. Therefore, bioenhancers represent a feasible approach to increase the absorption efficiency of bioactive compounds. Here, we combined uptake and transport studies in differentiated Caco-2 cells with high resolution analytics and fractionation to evaluate the impact of spearmint (Mentha spicata) on the cellular uptake of curcumin. Additionally, we utilized mechanistic studies in native and overexpressing cell systems to assess P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) efflux transporter activity as well as in-silico molecular docking simulations. We found significantly elevated intracellular curcuminoid levels mediated by spearmint. Fractionation and functional assays identified (R)-(-)-carvone as a putative candidate for the biologically active compound mediating increased curcumin uptake via BCRP inhibition. Inhibition of P-gp-mediated efflux might additionally be involved. Molecular docking simulations suggest a common binding site of curcumin and (R)-(-)-carvone in BCRP. Further, spearmint significantly increased cellular uptake of lutein and transintestinal transport of isoflavones in-vitro. In summary, spearmint was identified as a novel bioenhancer for curcumin, lutein and isoflavones. Our findings suggest that spearmint increases bioavailability of a wide range of nutrients and drugs at least partially due to interference with BCRP via its active compound (R)-(-)-carvone.

Unanticipated differences in the rat plasma metabolome of genistein and daidzein

Genistein (GEN) and daidzein (DAI) are soy isoflavones known to bind to estrogen receptors. Overall health effects of GEN and DAI in humans exhibit a dual nature, presenting both health benefits and concerns related to their interaction with the estrogen receptor. The metabolomes of these isoflavones were determined in 28-day oral studies in male and female Wistar rats to elucidate (1) metabolites changes, (2) compare their metabolomes with other compounds and (3) identify toxicological modes of action (MoA). Dose levels for GEN were 1000 and 300 mg/kg bw by gavage and 1000 and 300 ppm (via diet). DAI gavage dose levels were 1000 and 100 mg/kg bw. Results were evaluated using the MetaMap®Tox data base. Both compounds demonstrated metabolome profiles which were associated with estrogenic profiles and compounds, predominantly in females. However, the metabolomes were compound specific with relatively few common metabolite changes. There were no relevant matches between any GEN and any DAI treatment group indicating that both compounds are substantially different from metabolome perspective. Ranking of the metabolome patters for GEN and DAI with ≥ 1000 compounds in the MetaMap®Tox database revealed correlations with estrogenic and other hormonally active compounds. GEN-treated females correlated best with Cabergoline, a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, DAI females with tamoxifen and diethylstilbestrol, suggesting that even their estrogenic activity may be different. Beyond estrogenic effects, the high dose (HD) DAI metabolome indicated altered fatty acid metabolism associated with PPAR-alpha activation. For GEN, there was an indication of ethanolamine-like liver effects. Dose levels without estrogenic effects for GEN were 1000 and 100 mg/kg bw for males and females respectively, there were no estrogenic effects in the feeding studies. For DAI males, the no estrogenic effect level was 300 mg/kg bw, for females < 100 mg/kg bw, suggesting that DAI may be a more potent estrogen than GEN in rats.

Equol Nonproducing Status as an Independent Risk Factor for Acute Cardioembolic Stroke and Poor Functional Outcome

Background/Objectives: Equol has protective effects against coronary artery disease and dementia by strongly binding to estrogen receptor beta, whereas the intake of soy isoflavone alone does not always confer such protective effects. Equol production is completely dependent on the existence of equol-producing gut microbiota. The effects of equol-producing status on the cerebrovascular diseases remain unclear. The current study was aimed to investigate the association of equol-producing status with the development of stroke and its neurological prognosis. Methods: Frequencies of equol producers were compared between healthy subjects (HS) registered in the Suita Study and patients with acute stroke admitted to our stroke center from September 2019 to October 2021 in a retrospective cohort study. Results: The proportion of HSs and patients with ischemic stroke who were equol producers did not significantly differ (50/103 [48.5%] vs. 60/140 [42.9%], p = 0.38). However, cardioembolic stroke was significantly associated with low a prevalence of equol producers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21-0.99, p = 0.05). A higher left atrial volume index was observed in equol nonproducers (46.3 ± 23.8 vs. 36.0 ± 11.6 mL/m2, p = 0.06). The equol nonproducers had a significantly higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation than the equol producers (27.5% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.04). Furthermore, the equol producers exhibited a significantly favorable functional outcome upon discharge (aOR 2.84, 95% CI 1.20-6.75, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Equol is a promising candidate for interventions aiming to reduce the risk of CES and atrial dysfunction, such as atrial fibrillation and improve neurological prognosis after ischemic stroke.

Harnessing Therapeutic Potentials of Biochanin A in Neurological Disorders: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Overview

Biochanin A, an isoflavone flavonoid with estrogenic activity, is naturally found in red clover and other legumes. It possesses a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects. In recent years, a growing body of pre-clinical research has focused on exploring the therapeutic potential of biochanin A in various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, ischemic brain injury, gliomas, and neurotoxicity. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to the neuroprotective role of biochanin A based on previous pre-clinical studies. Furthermore, it provides a detailed overview of the protective effects of biochanin A in diverse neurological disorders. The review also addresses the limitations associated with biochanin A administration and discusses different approaches employed to overcome these challenges. Finally, it highlights the future opportunities for translating biochanin A from pre-clinical research to clinical studies while also considering its commercial viability as a dietary supplement or a potential treatment for various diseases.

ROS Scavenging Effect of Selected Isoflavones in Provoked Oxidative Stress Conditions in Human Skin Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes

Isoflavones, belonging to polyphenolic compounds, show structural similarity to natural estrogens, and in this context, they have been extensively studied. Some of them are also applied as cosmetic additives; however, little is known regarding their effects on skin cells. In this investigation, common isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, glycitein, formononetin, and biochanin A, as well as coumestrol, were evaluated for antioxidant activity and their impact on human skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Antioxidant effects were assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests, and the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) was tested in cells with H2O2-provoked oxidative stress. The impact on the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) was also explored. As shown by Alamar Blue and neutral red uptake assays, the compounds were not toxic within the tested concentration range, and formononetin and coumestrol even demonstrated a stimulatory effect on cells. Coumestrol and biochanin A demonstrated significant antioxidative potential, leading to a significant decrease in ROS in the cells stimulated by H2O2. Furthermore, they influenced enzyme activity, preventing depletion during induced oxidative stress, and also reduced MDA levels, demonstrating protection against lipid peroxidation. In turn, genistein, daidzein, and glycitein exhibited low antioxidant capacity.

Therapeutic vulnerabilities of cancer stem cells and effects of natural products

Covering: 1995 to 2022Tumors possess both genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity leading to the survival of subpopulations post-treatment. The term cancer stem cells (CSCs) describes a subpopulation that is resistant to many types of chemotherapy and which also possess enhanced migratory and anchorage-independent growth capabilities. These cells are enriched in residual tumor material post-treatment and can serve as the seed for future tumor re-growth, at both primary and metastatic sites. Elimination of CSCs is a key goal in enhancing cancer treatment and may be aided by application of natural products in conjunction with conventional treatments. In this review, we highlight molecular features of CSCs and discuss synthesis, structure-activity relationships, derivatization, and effects of six natural products with anti-CSC activity.

Biotechnological response curve of the cyanobacterium Spirulina subsalsa to light energy gradient

BACKGROUND

Microalgae represent a suitable and eco-sustainable resource for human needs thanks to their fast growth ability, together with the great diversity in species and intracellular secondary bioactive metabolites. These high-added-value compounds are of great interest for human health or animal feed. The intracellular content of these valuable compound families is tightly associated with the microalgal biological state and responds to environmental cues, e.g., light. Our study develops a Biotechnological response curve strategy exploring the bioactive metabolites synthesis in the marine cyanobacterium Spirulina subsalsa over a light energy gradient. The Relative Light energy index generated in our study integrates the red, green and blue photon flux density with their relative photon energy. The Biotechnological response curve combined biochemical analysis of the macromolecular composition (total protein, lipid, and carbohydrate content), total sterols, polyphenols and flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, C, D2, D3, E, H, and K1), phycobiliproteins, together with the antioxidant activity of the biomass as well as the growth ability and photosynthesis.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that light energy significantly modulate the biochemical status of the microalga Spirulina subsalsa revealing the relevance of the light energy index to explain the light-induced biological variability. The sharp decrease of the photosynthetic rate at high light energy was accompanied with an increase of the antioxidant network response, such as carotenoids, total polyphenols, and the antioxidant capacity. Conversely, low light energy favorized the intracellular content of lipids and vitamins (B2, B6, B9, D3, K1, A, C, H, and B12) compared to high light energy.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the Biotechnological response curves were discussed in their functional and physiological relevance as well as for the essence of their potential biotechnological applications. This study emphasized the light energy as a relevant tool to explain the biological responses of microalgae towards light climate variability, and, therefore, to design metabolic manipulation of microalgae.

Influence of omega- 3 fatty acids, soya isoflavones and their combination for abrogating carbon tetrachloride hazards in male rats

Studies have shown that carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induces hepatic and renal damage arising from oxidative stress. The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of omega-3 fatty acids and/or soya isoflavones on CCl4 induced toxicity in male albino rat liver and kidney. For this purpose, 42 rats were divided as follows: group 1, rats serves as the control without any treatment; group 2, rats were administered a single dose of CCl4 intraperitoneally (1 mg/kg b. wt.); group 3, rats were supplemented daily with omega-300 orally (400 mg/kg b. wt.); group 4, rats were supplemented daily with pro-S orally (50 mg/kg b. wt.); group 5, rats were supplemented daily with omega-300 orally for four weeks, then after 24 hours treated with a single dose of CCl4 at the same tested doses. group 6, rats were supplemented daily with pro- S orally for four weeks, then after 24 hours treated with a single dose of CCl4 at the same tested doses; group 7, rats were supplemented daily with an oral combination of omega-300 and pro-S orally for four weeks, then after 24 hours treated with a single dose of CCl4 at the same tested doses. Results showed that CCl4 administration induces hepatic damage indicated by a significant increase in the activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Aalanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzymes and glucose level, with a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and a significant decrease of reduced glutathione (GSH) level in liver tissue. Also, CCl4 toxicity induce renal damage manifested in a significant increase in serum urea, creatinine, uric acid, and oxidative stress of kidney tissue reflected by increase of MDA, NO and the decrease of GSH levels. The pre-treatment with omega-3 fatty acids and/or soya isoflavones revealed ameliorative effect against deleterious effects of CCl4 toxicity on hepatic and renal tissues and all tested parameters. Results of the current study revealed also that the pre-treatment with omega-3 fatty acids and/or soya isoflavones to rats improved liver and kidney function and produced high antioxidant activity.

Potential Protective Mechanisms of S-equol, a Metabolite of Soy Isoflavone by the Gut Microbiome, on Cognitive Decline and Dementia

S-equol, a metabolite of soy isoflavone daidzein transformed by the gut microbiome, is the most biologically potent among all soy isoflavones and their metabolites. Soy isoflavones are phytoestrogens and exert their actions through estrogen receptor-β. Epidemiological studies in East Asia, where soy isoflavones are regularly consumed, show that dietary isoflavone intake is inversely associated with cognitive decline and dementia; however, randomized controlled trials of soy isoflavones in Western countries did not generally show their cognitive benefit. The discrepant results may be attributed to S-equol production capability; after consuming soy isoflavones, 40-70% of East Asians produce S-equol, whereas 20-30% of Westerners do. Recent observational and clinical studies in Japan show that S-equol but not soy isoflavones is inversely associated with multiple vascular pathologies, contributing to cognitive impairment and dementia, including arterial stiffness and white matter lesion volume. S-equol has better permeability to the blood-brain barrier than soy isoflavones, although their affinity to estrogen receptor-β is similar. S-equol is also the most potent antioxidant among all known soy isoflavones. Although S-equol is available as a dietary supplement, no long-term trials in humans have examined the effect of S-equol supplementation on arterial stiffness, cerebrovascular disease, cognitive decline, or dementia.

Cytoprotective effect of genistein against dexamethasone-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis

Steroid-induced diabetes is a well-known metabolic side effect of long-term use of glucocorticoid (GC). Our group recently demonstrated dexamethasone-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis via upregulation of TRAIL and TRAIL death receptor (DR5). Genistein protects against pancreatic β-cell apoptosis induced by toxic agents. This study aimed to investigate the cytoprotective effect of genistein against dexamethasone-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis in cultured rat insulinoma (INS-1) cell line and in isolated mouse islets. In the absence of genistein, dexamethasone-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis was associated with upregulation of TRAIL, DR5, and superoxide production, but downregulation of TRAIL decoy receptor (DcR1). Dexamethasone also activated the expression of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic proteins, including Bax, NF-κB, caspase-8, and caspase-3, but suppressed the expression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein. Combination treatment with dexamethasone and genistein protected against pancreatic β-cell apoptosis, and reduced the effects of dexamethasone on the expressions of TRAIL, DR5, DcR1, superoxide production, Bax, Bcl-2, NF-κB, caspase-8, and caspase-3. Moreover, combination treatment with dexamethasone and genistein reduced the expressions of TRAIL and DR5 in isolated mouse islets. The results of this study demonstrate the cytoprotective effect of genistein against dexamethasone-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis in both cell line and islets via reduced TRAIL and DR5 protein expression.

Maternal exposure to genistein during pregnancy and oxidative DNA damage in testes of male mouse offspring

Background

Genistein is a dietary supplement with phyto-estrogenic properties. Therefore, high intake of genistein during pregnancy may have adverse effects on the genetic integrity of testes and germ cells of male offspring. In this study, we examined whether maternal exposure to genistein during pregnancy induced oxidative DNA damage in the male germline at adolescence.

Methods

Atm-ΔSRI mice have lower glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity, which is important for maintaining levels of reduced glutathione and therefore these mice have an increased susceptibility to oxidative stress. Parental heterozygous Atm-ΔSRI mice received a genistein-rich or control diet, after which they were mated to obtain offspring. During pregnancy, mothers remained on the respective diets and after delivery all animals received control diets. Redox status and oxidative DNA damage were assessed in testes and sperm of 12 weeks old male offspring. Gene expression of Cyp1b1, Comt, and Nqo1 was assessed in testes, and DNA methylation as possible mechanism for transmission of effects to later life.

Results

Intake of genistein during pregnancy increased oxidative DNA damage in testes of offspring, especially in heterozygous Atm-ΔSRI mice. These increased DNA damage levels coincided with decreased expression of Comt and Nqo1. Heterozygous Atm-ΔSRI mice had higher levels of DNA strand breaks in sperm compared to wild type littermates, and DNA damage was further enhanced by a genistein-rich maternal diet. G6PDH activity was higher in mice with high maternal intake of genistein compared to control diets, suggesting compensation against oxidative stress. A positive correlation was observed between the levels of DNA methylation and oxidative DNA damage in testes.

Conclusion

These data indicate that prenatal exposure to genistein altered gene expression and increased DNA damage in testes and sperm of adolescent male offspring. These effects of genistein on DNA damage in later life coincided with alterations in DNA methylation.

Therapeutic potentials of genistein: New insights and perspectives

Genistein, a polyphenolic isoflavone compound found abundantly in soy or soy-based products, is widely consumed in the Asian population. Genistein has poor bioavailability, to overcome this problem many advanced nano-drug delivery carrier systems are designed to enhance its water solubility and stability. However, further research is required to develop more efficient bioavailability improvement strategies. Genistein is a phytoestrogen which has been associated with reducing the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes mellitus. This plant-based bioactive compound possesses numerous biological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, cardioprotective, and anti-diabetic activities to treat various disease states. Genistein has been used as an active therapeutic agent in many medications. Moreover, several clinical trials are in the ongoing stage to develop more efficient treatment therapies, especially for cancer treatment. This article highlights the protective and therapeutic benefits of genistein in the treatment of different ailments, and more specifically elaborates on the anti-cancer potential of genistein regarding various types of cancers. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Genistein possesses versatile biological activities, including anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-angiogenic. The most studied activity is anti-cancer. Currently, a number of pre-clinical and clinical trials are being carried out on anti-neoplastic and cytotoxic activities of genistein to develop novel therapeutic agents with excellent anti-cancer potential for the treatment of various kinds of cancer. Moreover, many bioavailability enhancement strategies have been developed to improve the bioavailability of genistein. Genistein shows significant hypoglycemic effects alone or in combination with other anti-diabetic agents. Genistein in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents is used for the treatment of prostate, bone, colorectal, glioma, breast, and bladder cancer.

Cancer Chemotherapy via Natural Bioactive Compounds

BACKGROUND

Cancer-induced mortality is increasingly prevalent globally which skyrocketed the necessity to discover new/novel safe and effective anticancer drugs. Cancer is characterized by the continuous multiplication of cells in the human which is unable to control. Scientific research is drawing its attention towards naturally-derived bioactive compounds as they have fewer side effects compared to the current synthetic drugs used for chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

Drugs isolated from natural sources and their role in the manipulation of epigenetic markers in cancer are discussed briefly in this review article.

METHODS

With advancing medicinal plant biotechnology and microbiology in the past century, several anticancer phytomedicines were developed. Modern pharmacopeia contains at least 25% herbal-based remedy including clinically used anticancer drugs. These drugs mainly include the podophyllotoxin derivatives vinca alkaloids, curcumin, mistletoe plant extracts, taxanes, camptothecin, combretastatin, and others including colchicine, artesunate, homoharringtonine, ellipticine, roscovitine, maytanasin, tapsigargin,andbruceantin.

RESULTS

Compounds (psammaplin, didemnin, dolastin, ecteinascidin,and halichondrin) isolated from marine sources and animals such as microalgae, cyanobacteria, heterotrophic bacteria, invertebrates. They have been evaluated for their anticancer activity on cells and experimental animal models and used chemotherapy.Drug induced manipulation of epigenetic markers plays an important role in the treatment of cancer.

CONCLUSION

The development of a new drug from isolated bioactive compounds of plant sources has been a feasible way to lower the toxicity and increase their effectiveness against cancer. Potential anticancer therapeutic leads obtained from various ethnomedicinal plants, foods, marine, and microorganisms are showing effective yet realistically safe pharmacological activity. This review will highlight important plant-based bioactive compounds like curcumin, stilbenes, terpenes, other polyphenolic phyto-compounds, and structurally related families that are used to prevent/ ameliorate cancer. However, a contribution from all possible fields of science is still a prerequisite for discovering safe and effective anticancer drugs.

Development of Novel Pasta Products with Evidence Based Impacts on Health-A Review

Pasta made from durum wheat is a widely consumed worldwide and is a healthy and convenient food. In the last two decades, there has been much research effort into improving the nutritional value of pasta by inclusion of nonconventional ingredients due to the demand by health-conscious consumers for functional foods. These ingredients can affect the technological properties of the pasta, but their health impacts are not always measured rather inferred. This review provides an overview of pasta made from durum wheat where the semolina is substituted in part with a range of ingredients (barley fractions, dietary fibre sources, fish ingredients, herbs, inulin, resistant starches, legumes, vegetables and protein extracts). Impacts on pasta technological properties and in vitro measures of phytonutrient enhancement or changes to starch digestion are included. Emphasis is on the literature that provides clinical or animal trial data on the health benefits of the functional pasta.

Genistein Inhibits the Pathogenesis of Aeromonas hydrophila by Disrupting Quorum Sensing Mediated Biofilm Formation and Aerolysin Production

Aeromonas hydrophila is an opportunistic pathogen that is responsible for a variety of infectious diseases both in human and animals, particularly aquatic animals. Moreover, the pathogen has become a foodborne pathogen by transmitting from seafood to human. The abuse of antibiotics in aquaculture results in the emergence of antibiotic resistance and treatment failure. Therefore, novel approaches are urgently needed for managing resistant A. hydrophila associated infections. Aerolysin, an essential virulence factor of pathogenic A. hydrophila strain, has been identified as target developing novel drugs against pathogenesis of A. hydrophila. In the present study, genistein, without anti-A. hydrophila activity, was identified that could decrease the production of aerolysin and biofilm formation at a dose-dependent manner. Transcription of aerolysin encoding gene aerA and quorum sensing related genes ahyI and ahyR was significantly down-regulated when co-cultured with genistein. Cell viability studies demonstrated that genistein could significantly improve aerolysin mediated A549 cell injury. Furthermore, genistein could provide a remarkable protection to channel catfish infected with A. hydrophila. These findings indicate that targeting quorum sensing and virulence can be a useful approach developing drugs against A. hydrophila infections in aquaculture. Moreover, genistein can be chosen as a promising candidate in developing drugs against A. hydrophila.

Butea superba Roxb. Extract Ameliorates Scopolamine-Induced Cognitive and Memory Impairment in Aged Male Rats

Butea superba Roxb. (B. superba) is a herb that has been used for rejuvenation, to improve sexual performance, or to prevent erectile dysfunction function. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that is the main cause of progressive dementia. This study aimed to investigate the amelioration for cognitive and memory dysfunction of B. superba ethanolic extract (BSE), a possible mechanism of action, and its toxicity. The results from the Y-maze test, novel object recognition test, and passive avoidance test exhibited that the administration of BSE at 50 mg/kg (BSL) and 200 mg/kg (BSH) could ameliorate scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in all behavior testing. Moreover, BSE could prevent the cognitive deficit in a dose-dependent manner in a passive avoidance test. Furthermore, BSE inhibited acetylcholinesterase's (AChE) ex vivo activity in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. Also, the in vitro and ex vivo antioxidative effects of BSE revealed that BSE had free radical scavenging activities in both DPPH and FRAP assay. Furthermore, male rats treated with BSE at 200 mg/kg/day for two weeks could significantly increase serum testosterone compared with control (P < 0.05). The GC-MS analysis and previous studies revealed that BSE contained propanoic acid, 3,3'-thiobis-, didodecyl ester, oleic acid, gamma-sitosterol, and stigmasterol which may play an important role in cognitive and memory impairment prevention. The toxicity test of BSE in rats at 50 and 200 mg/kg/day for two weeks showed that relative organ weight, serum creatinine, ALT, ALP, and CBC levels of both treated groups were not significantly different compared to the CON (P > 0.05). These results suggest that BSE may not be toxic to the vital organ and blood. In conclusion, BSE has the potential to be developed as a health supplement product or medicine for AD prevention and treatment.

Inflammatory cytokines as key players of apoptosis induced by environmental estrogens in the ovary

Natural and synthetic environmental estrogens (EEs), interfering with the physiological functions of the body's estrogens, are widespread and are rising much concern for their possible deleterious effects on human and animal health, in particular on reproduction. In fact, increasing evidence indicate that EEs can be responsible for a variety of disfunctions of the reproductive system especially in females such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Because of their great structural diversity, the modes of action of EEs are controversial. One important way through which EEs exert their effects on reproduction is the induction of apoptosis in the ovary. In general, EEs can exert pro-and anti-apoptotic effects by agonizing or antagonizing numerous estrogen-dependent signaling pathways. In the present work, results concerning apoptotic pathways and diseases induced by representative EEs (such as zearalenone, bisphenol A and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), in ovaries throughout development are presented into an integrated network. By reviewing and elaborating these studies, we propose inflammatory factors, centered on the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), as a major cause of the induction of apoptosis by EEs in the mammalian ovary. As a consequence, potential strategies to prevent such EE effect are suggested.

Effect of in vitro digestion on chestnut outer-skin and inner-skin bioaccessibility: The relationship between biotransformation and antioxidant activity of polyphenols by metabolomics

Chestnut skin is rich in polyphenols that have been linked to health for their antioxidant activity. However, chestnut outer-skin extract (COE), chestnut inner-skin extract (CIE), and their digested products have different compositions of polyphenols, and therefore their antioxidant activities might differ as well. Here, we study the effect of in vitro digestion on their total phenol content, antioxidant capacity, and individual phenolic profile to clarify the relationship between biotransformation and antioxidant activity. Compared to undigested samples, total phenol content and antioxidant activity of digested chestnut outer-skin extract (DCOE) and digested chestnut inner-skin extract (DCIE) had significantly higher values. The changes of phenolic composition and antioxidant activity after digestion were mainly due to the anthocyanin biosynthesis involving glycosylation, acylation, methoxylation and their reverse processes. All these data suggest that as chestnut processing by-products, COE and CIE are raw material sources of antioxidant-rich active substances and need more sufficient utilization.

Replacing Animal Protein with Soy-Pea Protein in an "American Diet" Controls Murine Crohn Disease-Like Ileitis Regardless of Firmicutes: Bacteroidetes Ratio

BACKGROUND

The current nutritional composition of the "American diet" (AD; also known as Western diet) has been linked to the increasing incidence of chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), namely Crohn disease (CD).

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated which of the 3 major macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates) in the AD has the greatest impact on preventing chronic inflammation in experimental IBD mouse models.

METHODS

We compared 5 rodent diets designed to mirror the 2011-2012 "What We Eat in America" NHANES. Each diet had 1 macronutrient dietary source replaced. The formulated diets were AD, AD-soy-pea (animal protein replaced by soy + pea protein), AD-CHO ("refined carbohydrate" by polysaccharides), AD-fat [redistribution of the ω-6:ω-3 (n-6:n-3) PUFA ratio; ∼10:1 to 1:1], and AD-mix (all 3 "healthier" macronutrients combined). In 3 separate experiments, 8-wk-old germ-free SAMP1/YitFC mice (SAMP) colonized with human gut microbiota ("hGF-SAMP") from CD or healthy donors were fed an AD, an AD-"modified," or laboratory rodent diet for 24 wk. Two subsequent dextran sodium sulfate-colitis experiments in hGF-SAMP (12-wk-old) and specific-pathogen-free (SPF) C57BL/6 (20-wk-old) mice, and a 6-wk feeding trial in 24-wk-old SPF SAMP were performed. Intestinal inflammation, gut metagenomics, and MS profiles were assessed.

RESULTS

The AD-soy-pea diet resulted in lower histology scores [mean ± SD (56.1% ± 20.7% reduction)] in all feeding trials and IBD mouse models than did other diets (P < 0.05). Compared with the AD, the AD-soy-pea correlated with increased abundance in Lactobacillaceae and Leuconostraceae (1.5-4.7 log2 and 3.0-5.1 log2 difference, respectively), glutamine (6.5 ± 0.8 compared with 3.9 ± 0.3 ng/μg stool, P = 0.0005) and butyric acid (4:0; 3.3 ± 0.5 compared with 2.54 ± 0.4 ng/μg stool, P = 0.006) concentrations, and decreased linoleic acid (18:2n-6; 5.4 ± 0.4 compared with 8.6 ± 0.3 ng/μL plasma, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Replacement of animal protein in an AD by plant-based sources reduced the severity of experimental IBD in all mouse models studied, suggesting that similar, feasible adjustments to the daily human diet could help control/prevent IBD in humans.

Genistein Prevents Nitric Oxide Deficiency-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction and Remodeling in Rats

Genistein is an isoflavone found in soybeans. This study evaluates the protective effects of genistein on N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME)-induced hypertension, cardiac remodeling, and dysfunction in rats. Male Wistar rats were treated with L-NAME 40 mg/kg/day together for 5 weeks, with or without genistein at a dose of 40 or 80 mg/kg/day or lisinopril 5 mg/kg/day (n = 8 per group). Genistein prevented L-NAME-induced hypertension in rats. Increases in the left ventricular weight, metalloproteinase-2, metalloproteinase-9, and collagen type I intensity were observed in L-NAME rats, and these changes were attenuated in the genistein-treated group. Genistein reduced circulating angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and angiotensin II concentrations in L-NAME rats. L-NAME increased plasma and cardiac malondialdehyde and vascular superoxide generations, as well as reductions of serum and cardiac catalase activities in rats. Plasma nitrate/nitrite were protected in the genistein-treated group. Genistein prevented the L-NAME-induced overexpression of angiotensin II receptor type I (AT₁R), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunit 2 (gp91^phox), and transforming growth factor beta I (TGF-β1) in hypertensive rats. In conclusion, genistein exhibited a cardioprotective effect in hypertensive rats in this study. The molecular mechanisms might be mediated by suppression of oxidative stress through the Ang II/AT₁R/NADPH oxidase/TGF-β1 signaling pathway.

Role of the Phytochemical Compounds like Modulators in Gut Microbiota and Oxidative Stress

BACKGROUND

Currently, daily consumption of green herb functional food or medicinal herbs has increased as adopted by many people worldwide as a way of life or even as an alternative to the use of synthetic medicines. Phytochemicals, which are a series of compounds of relatively complex structures and restricted distribution in plants, usually perform the defensive functions for plants against insects, bacteria, fungi or other pathogenic factors. A series of studies have found their effectiveness in the treatment or prevention of systemic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, Crohn's disease and so on.

OBJECTIVE

This review systematizes the literature on the mechanisms of the phytochemicals that react against unique free radicals and prevent the oxidative stress and also summarizes their role in gut microbiota inhibiting bacterial translocation and damage to the intestinal barrier and improving the intestinal membrane condition.

CONCLUSION

The gut microbiota modulation and antioxidant activities of the phytochemicals shall be emphasized on the research of the active principles of the phytochemicals.

Isolation of individual isoflavone species from soybean by solvent extraction followed by the combination of macroporous resin and aluminium oxide separation

Growing interest in the health benefits of soy isoflavones has led to research in the isolation of individual isoflavone species for further application. Herein, we develop a new strategy to isolate daidzein, genistein, daidzin and genistin in soybean. We investigated the impact of solvents used and the extraction time on the extracted isoflavone contents from soybean. A 30-min extraction with 65% aqueous methanol gave a total isoflavone yield of 345 mg/100 g soybean, the highest value among tested conditions. Further, we proposed a two-stage adsorption/desorption chromatography comprising macroporous resin and aluminium oxide to isolate isoflavone. First, HP-20 resin was used to separate the glucosidic and aglyconic forms of isoflavone, then individual species of isoflavone could be isolated using aluminium oxide by specific retention of 5-hydroxy isoflavone. This process achieved overall high recovery (82-97%) and purity (92-95%) of the four isoflavones, which confirms a high separating efficiency for isoflavones from soybean.

Associations of equol-producing status with white matter lesion and amyloid-β deposition in cognitively normal elderly Japanese

INTRODUCTION

Equol, a metabolite of a soy isoflavone transformed by the gut microbiome, is anti-oxidant and anti-amyloidogenic. We assessed the associations of equol with white matter lesion normalized to total brain volume (WML%) and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition.

METHODS

From 2016 to 2018, 91 cognitively normal elderly Japanese aged 75 to 89 underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography using 11C-Pittsburgh compound-B. Serum equol was measured using stored samples from 2008 to 2012. Equol producers were defined as individuals with serum levels >0. Producers were further divided into high (> the median) and low (≤ the median) producers.

RESULTS

The median (interquartile range) WML% was 1.10 (0.59 to 1.61); 24.2% were Aβ positive, and 51% were equol producers. Equol-producing status (non-producers, low and high) was significantly inversely associated with WML%: 1.19, 0.89, and 0.58, respectively (trend P < .01). Equol-producing status was not associated with Aβ status.

DISCUSSION

A randomized-controlled trial of equol targeting WML volume is warranted.

New isoflavone glucosides in yabumame (Amphicarpaea bracteata (L.) Fernald subsp. edgeworthii (Benth.) H.Ohashi var. japonica (Oliv.) H.Ohashi) and their effect on leukotriene B4 production in mast cells

Yabumame (Amphicarpaea bracteata (L.) Fernald subsp. edgeworthii (Benth.) H.Ohashi var. japonica (Oliv.) H.Ohashi) is a legume plant that the Ainu people eat as a traditional food, although the bioactive ingredients other than vitamins have not been studied. In this study, the structures of yabumame isoflavone glucosides were determined and their effect on leukotriene (LT) B₄, a chemical mediator of type I allergy, produced in mast cells, was investigated in vitro. Seven compounds were isolated from yabumame. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and spectrometric analyses, which were genistein-7-O-β-D-glucoside (1), formononetin-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (2), formononetin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (3), biochanin A-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (4), formononetin-7-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-β-D-glucoside (5), biochanin A-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl-6″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (6), and biochanin A-7-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-β-D-glucoside (7). Compounds 2, 4, and 6 were determined as new compounds. Compound 3 showed statistically significant suppressive effect on LTB₄ production in mast cells, although the activity was not strong. On the other hand, biochanin A, an aglycone common to compounds 4, 6, and 7, strongly inhibited the LTB₄ production. The results suggest that some of yabumame isoflavone glucosides might contribute to mitigate type I allergy. Seven isoflavone glucosides including 3 new compounds were found in yabumame and their anti-allergic effect was evaluated.

Beneficial Effects of Isoflavones in the Kidney of Obese Rats Are Mediated by PPAR-Gamma Expression

Several studies have demonstrated an important association between altered lipid metabolism and the development of kidney injury because of a high-fat diet. Fructose is also closely associated with renal injury. We opted for a combination of fructose and saturated fats in a diet (DH) that is a model known to induce renal damage in order to evaluate whether soy isoflavones could have promising use in the treatment of renal alterations. After two months of ingestion, there was an expansion of visceral fat, which was associated with long-term metabolic disorders, such as sustained hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, polyuria, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Additionally, we found a decrease in renal blood flow and an increase in renal vascular resistance. Biochemical markers of chronic kidney disease were detected; there was an infiltration of inflammatory cells with an elevated expression of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β), the activation of the renin–angiotensin system, and oxidative/nitrosative stress. Notably, in rats exposed to the DH diet for 120 days, the concomitant treatment with isoflavones after 60 days was able to revert metabolic parameters, renal alterations, and oxidative/nitrosative stress. The beneficial effects of isoflavones in the kidney of the obese rats were found to be mediated by expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ).

Influence of Diet and Nutrition on Prostate Cancer

The incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) displays widespread regional differences, probably owing to differences in dietary habits. Nutrients, including fat, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins (vitamin A, D, and E), and polyphenols, potentially affect PCa pathogenesis and progression, as previously reported using animal models; however, clinical studies have reported controversial results for almost all nutrients. The effects of these nutrients may be manifested through various mechanisms including inflammation, antioxidant effects, and the action of sex hormones. Dietary patterns including the Western and Prudent patterns also influence the risk of PCa. Recent studies reported that the gut microbiota contribute to tumorigenesis in some organs. Diet composition and lifestyle have a direct and profound effect on the gut bacteria. Human studies reported an increase in the abundance of specific gut bacteria in PCa patients. Although there are few studies concerning their relationship, diet and nutrition could influence PCa, and this could be mediated by gut microbiota. An intervention of dietary patterns could contribute to the prevention of PCa. An intervention targeting dietary patterns may thus help prevent PCa.

In vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy of the combined Bowman-Birk trypsin inhibitor and genistein isoflavone, two biological compounds from soybean

Soybean Bowman-Birk protease inhibitor (BBI) and genistein, two biological compounds from soybean, are well-known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. The aim of this study was designing a BBI-genistein conjugate and then investigating its protective effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in BALB/c mice, compared with the effects of combination of BBI and genistein. BBI was purified from soybean and the BBI-genistein conjugate was synthesized. The BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally treated 2 hours before LPS induction. Our results showed that treatment with the combination of BBI and genistein greatly led to more reduced serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ compared with the treatments of BBI alone, the BBI-genistein conjugate, and genistein alone, respectively. Moreover, the expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ in the splenocytes was significantly downregulated along with improving host survival against the LPS-induced lethal endotoxemia in the same way. Our data support a new combined therapy using BBI and genistein, as natural anti-inflammatory agents, to develop a new drug for inflammatory diseases.

Genistein upregulates cyclin D1 and CDK4 expression and promotes the proliferation of ovarian cancer OVCAR-5 cells

BACKGROUND

Ovarian epithelial cancer is the leading cause of deaths associated with gynecologic malignancies. Genistein represents a major type of phytoestrogens widely found in foods and herbal medicines. Although multiple epidemiological studies indicated that the consumption of genistein or other isoflavones is associated with a decreased ovarian cancer risk, the cellular effects and underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study focuses on the effect of genistein on the proliferation and cell cycle regulation of ovarian cancer cells.

METHODS

Ovarian cancer OVCAR-5 cells were treated with genistein in an estrogen-free condition. Cell counting and MTS assays were performed to determine the cell proliferation alterations. Real-time PCR and Western blotting were conducted to examine the expression changes in key cell cycle regulators.

RESULTS

Genistein significantly promoted the proliferation and the viability of OVCAR-5 cells. Upon genistein treatment, cellular mRNA and protein expression levels of PCNA, Cyclin D1 and CDK4 were increased, but those of p21 and p27 were decreased.

CONCLUSION

In contrary to results of many previous studies, we observed that genistein was able to upregulate the proliferation and G1-S transition of ovarian cancer OVCAR-5 cells. The discrepancy could be caused by diverged experimental conditions and/or different ER expression patterns of cell lines. The findings may provide basic information for in-depth analysis on the role(s) and mechanisms by which genistein confers its effect on ovarian cancer progression.

Gender Differences in Phytoestrogens and the Relationship with Speed of Processing in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of NHANES, 1999-2002

Sex hormone changes in adults are known to play a part in aging, including cognitive aging. Dietary intake of phytoestrogens can mimic estrogenic effects on brain function. Since sex hormones differ between genders, it is important to examine gender differences in the phytoestrogen–cognition association. Therefore, the goal of this study is to examine the relationship between urinary phytoestrogens and speed of processing (SOP) and the variation of the association between genders in older adults. Participants were drawn from the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and included 354 individuals aged 65–85 years old. General linear models (GLMs) were used to test for significant gender differences in the relationship between phytoestrogens and SOP. Results from the GLMs showed significant gender differences in the relationship between genistein and SOP. Higher levels of genistein were associated with better SOP in women. This relationship was reversed in men: higher genistein levels were associated with worse performance. Results indicate that there are distinct gender differences in the relationship between genistein and SOP. These results emphasize the importance of considering gender differences when devising dietary and pharmacologic interventions that target phytoestrogens to improve brain health.

Biochemistry and use of soybean isoflavones in functional food development

Soybeans and their food products exist in the market in various forms, ranging from crude oils and bean meals to nutritious products (e.g. soy milk powers). With the availability of technologies for mass production of soy products and for enrichment of soy components (e.g. phospholipids, saponins, isoflavones, oligosaccharides and edible fiber), the nutritional values of soy products have been enhanced remarkably, offering the potential for functional food development. Among different bioactive components in soybeans, one important component is isoflavones, which have been widely exploited for health implications. While there are studies supporting the health benefits of isoflavones, concerns on adverse effects have been raised in the literature. The objective of this article is to review the recent understanding of the biological activities, adverse effects, and use of isoflavones in functional food development.

Influence of maternal protein malnutrition on oxidative stress and regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis in female rat hearts over succeeding generations

AIMS

We sought to evaluate the effects of maternal protein restriction (LP) on oxidative balance and transcription factors for mitochondrial biogenesis in the hearts of young female rats of both the first (F1) and second (F2) generation.

MAIN METHODS

We evaluated oxidative stress biomarkers (lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation), enzymatic antioxidant defense (activity of superoxide dismutase-SOD, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase-GST), nonenzymatic antioxidant defense (reduced glutathione-GSH and sulfhydryl groups) and gene expression of AMPK, PGC-1α and TFAM.

KEY FINDINGS

Interestingly, lipid peroxidation was decreased (49%, p < 0.001) in the LP-F1 group and 59% (p < 0.001) in LP-F2. In enzymatic defense, we observed increases in SOD activity in the LP-F1 group (79%, p = 0.036) and in CAT activity (approximately 40%, p = 0.041). GSH was increased in F2 in both groups (LP 546%, p < 0.0001 and in NP 491.7%, p < 0.0001). With respect to mitochondrial biogenesis gene transcription, we observed a decrease in AMPK (60%, p < 0. 0001) and an increase in PGC-1α (340%, p < 0.001) in LP compared to NP in the F1 generation. TFAM was decreased in LP-F2L compared to NP-F2L (42%, p = 0.0069) and increased in LP-F2 compared to LP-F1 (160%, p = 0.0037).

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study contributes to knowledge of inheritance, showing that despite the potential mitochondrial 'inheritance' of cardiovascular damage caused by maternal malnutrition, that damage is not cross-generational and can be eliminated with proper nutrition in the F1 generation.

Effect of Soybean Isoflavones on Growth Performance, Immune Function, and Viral Protein 5 mRNA Expression in Broiler Chickens Challenged with Infectious Bursal Disease Virus

A total of 200 one-day-old male broilers were assigned to five groups, and each group consisted of four replicates with 10 birds per replicate. Chicks were fed the basal diet with 0 (non-infected control), 0 (infected control), 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg soybean isoflavones (SI) for 42 days. At 21 days of age, chickens were inoculated with an infectious bursal dose (causing 50% morbidity) of the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) BC 6/85 strain by the eye-drop and nasal route (except for the non-infected group). Average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) decreased (p < 0.05) in broilers infected with infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) from 22 to 42 days. However, infected broilers fed 10 and 20 mg SI/kg had the maximum (p <0.05) ADG and ADFI from 1 to 42 days. Body weight (BW) increased (p < 0.05) in infected broilers fed the 10 and 20 mg SI /kg diet. The bursa weight at 7 days post-infection (dpi) was increased (p < 0.05) by the supplemental 10 mg SI/kg diet. Infected broilers showed the highest (p < 0.05) bursa lesions, with an average score of 4.0 ± 0.0, while the severity of bursa lesions was decreased (p < 0.05) at 3 dpi and 7 dpi by the supplemental 20 mg SI/kg diet. Supplemental SI at 20 mg/kg decreased (p < 0.05) the viral protein 5 (VP5) mRNA expression at 3 dpi and 7 dpi. The level of interferon gamma (IFNγ) was elevated (p < 0.05) in the infected group at 3 dpi and 7 dpi as compared with the control group, while its level was decreased (p < 0.05) by supplemental 10 mg/kg SI at 3 dpi. The level of nuclear factor κB in the bursal tissue showed the lowest value (p < 0.05) with supplemental 10 and 20 mg SI/kg diet at 7 dpi. Supplemental 10, 20, 40 mg/kg SI improved (p < 0.05) the serum total antioxidant activity (T-AOC) in infected broilers at 3 dpi. In addition, the serum level of malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased (p < 0.05) in the group fed 20 mg/kg SI at 7 dpi. In conclusion, supplemental 10~20 mg/kg SI may have a positive effect on broiler chickens infected with IBDV, probably because SI decrease the severity of bursa lesions and viral protein 5 mRNA expression, and have strong antioxidant activity.

Isoflavones

Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring nonsteroidal phenolic plant compounds that, due to their molecular structure and size, resemble vertebrate steroids estrogens. This review is focused on plant flavonoids isoflavones, which are ranked among the most estrogenic compounds. The main dietary sources of isoflavones for humans are soybean and soybean products, which contain mainly daidzein and genistein. When they are consumed, they exert estrogenic and/or antiestrogenic effects. Isoflavones are considered chemoprotective and can be used as an alternative therapy for a wide range of hormonal disorders, including several cancer types, namely breast cancer and prostate cancer, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, or menopausal symptoms. On the other hand, isoflavones may also be considered endocrine disruptors with possible negative influences on the state of health in a certain part of the population or on the environment. This review deals with isoflavone classification, structure, and occurrence, with their metabolism, biological, and health effects in humans and animals, and with their utilization and potential risks.

Synthesis and evaluation of isoprenylation-resveratrol dimer derivatives against Alzheimer's disease

A series of resveratrol dimer derivatives against Alzheimer's disease (AD) was obtained by structural modification and transformation using resveratrol as substrate. Biological analysis revealed that these derivatives had moderate inhibitory activity against human monoamine oxidase B (hMAO-B). In particular, 3 and 7 showed the better inhibitory activity for hMAO-B (IC50 = 3.91 ± 0.23 μM, 0.90 ± 0.01 μM) respectively. Compound 3 (IC50 = 46.95 ± 0.21 μM for DPPH, 1.43 and 1.74 trolox equivalent by ABTS and FRAP method respectively), and 7 (IC50 = 35.33 ± 0.15 μM for DPPH, 1.70 and 1.97 trolox equivalent by ABTS method and FRAP method respectively) have excellent antioxidant effects. Cellular assay shown that 3 and 7 had lower toxicity and were resistant to neurotoxicity induced by oxidative toxins (H2O2, rotenone and oligomycin-A). More importantly, the selected compounds have neuroprotective effects against ROS generation, H2O2-induced apoptosis and a significant in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. The results of the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay for blood-brain barrier indicated that 3 and 7 would be predominant to cross the blood-brain barrier. In this study, mouse microglia BV2 cells were used to establish cell oxidative stress injury model with H2O2 and to explore the protective effect and mechanism of 3 and 7. In general, 3 and 7 can be considered candidates for potential treatment of AD.

Screening dietary biochanin A, daidzein, equol and genistein for their potential to increase DHA biosynthesis in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Plant oil utilization in aquafeeds is still the most practical option, although it decreases the content of the nutritionally highly valuable omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n-3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3, DHA) in fish. Phytoestrogens and their metabolites are putatively able to affect genes encoding proteins centrally involved in the biosynthesis of EPA and DHA due to their estrogenic potential. Thus, the aim of the study was to screen the potential of the phytoestrogens to stimulate the biosynthesis of EPA and DHA in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Additionally, the potential effects on growth performance, nutrient composition and hepatic lipid metabolism in rainbow trout were investigated. For that, a vegetable oil based diet served as a control diet (C) and was supplemented with 15 g/kg dry matter of biochanin A (BA), daidzein (DA), genistein (G) and equol (EQ), respectively. These five diets were fed to rainbow trout (initial body weight 83.3 ± 0.4 g) for 52 days. Growth performance and nutrient composition of whole body homogenates were not affected by the dietary treatments. Furthermore, feeding EQ to rainbow trout significantly increased DHA levels by +8% in whole body homogenates compared to samples of fish fed the diet C. A tendency towards increased DHA levels in whole body homogenates was found for fish fed the diet G. Fish fed diets BA and DA lacked these effects. Moreover, EQ and G fed fish showed significantly decreased hepatic mRNA steady state levels for fatty acyl desaturase 2a (delta-6) (fads2a(d6)). In contrast, carnitine palmitoyl transferases 1 (cpt1) hepatic mRNA steady state levels and hepatic Fads2a(d6) protein contents were not affected by the dietary treatment. In conclusion, when combined with dietary vegetable oils, equol and genistein seem to stimulate the biosynthesis of DHA and thereby increase tissue DHA levels in rainbow trout, however, only to a moderate extent.

Effect of S-equol and Soy Isoflavones on Heart and Brain

BACKGROUND

Observational studies in Asia show that dietary intake of soy isoflavones had a significant inverse association with coronary heart disease (CHD). A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) of soy isoflavones on atherosclerosis in the US, however, failed to show their benefit. The discrepancy may be due to the much lower prevalence of S-equol producers in Westerners: Only 20-30% of Westerners produce S-equol in contrast to 50-70% in Asians. S-equol is a metabolite of dietary soy isoflavone daidzein by gut microbiome and possesses the most antiatherogenic properties among all isoflavones. Several short-duration RCTs documented that soy isoflavones improves arterial stiffness. Accumulating evidence shows that both atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness are positively associated with cognitive decline/dementia. Therefore, potentially, soy isoflavones, especially S-equol, are protective against cognitive decline/dementia.

METHODS/RESULTS

This narrative review of clinical and epidemiological studies provides an overview of the health benefits of soy isoflavones and introduces S-equol. Second, we review recent evidence on the association of soy isoflavones and S-equol with CHD, atherosclerosis, and arterial stiffness as well as the association of atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness with cognitive decline/ dementia. Third, we highlight recent studies that report the association of soy isoflavones and S-equol with cognitive decline/dementia. Lastly, we discuss the future directions of clinical and epidemiological research on the relationship of S-equol and CHD and dementia.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from observational studies and short-term RCTs suggests that S-equol is anti-atherogenic and improves arterial stiffness and may prevent CHD and cognitive impairment/ dementia. Well-designed long-term (≥ 2years) RCTs should be pursued.

Soy Isoflavones in Integrative Oncology: Increased Efficacy and Decreased Toxicity of Cancer Therapy

Soy consumption in human diet has been linked to decreased incidence of a variety of cancers, suggesting a potential role of soy products in cancer prevention and control. Furthermore, a substantial body of evidence in the literature suggests that soy supplementation may improve the efficacy and prevent the adverse effects of cancer chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Isoflavones constitute the predominant anticancer bioactive compounds in soy. Genistein, which is the most abundant and active isoflavone in soy, has a multitude of effects on cancer cells, including inhibition of NF-κB activation and DNA methylation, enhancement of histone acetylation, inhibition of cell growth and metastasis, and antiangiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects. Isoflavones are orally bioavailable, easily metabolized, and usually considered safe. In this article, we review in vitro and in vivo evidence as well as the results of clinical and epidemiological studies on the effects of soy isoflavones, with a focus on sensitization of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation while at the same time protecting normal cells from the harmful effects of these treatments.

Identification of Three (Iso)flavonoid Glucosyltransferases From Pueraria lobata

(Iso)flavonoids are one of the largest groups of natural phenolic products conferring great value to the health of plants and humans. Pueraria lobata, a legume, has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine. (Iso)flavonoids mainly present as glycosyl-conjugates and accumulate in P. lobata roots. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the glycosylation processes in (iso)flavonoid biosynthesis are not fully understood. In the current study, three novel UDP-glycosyltransferases (PlUGT4, PlUGT15, and PlUGT57) were identified in P. lobata from RNA-seq data. Biochemical assays of these three recombinant PlUGTs showed all of them were able to glycosylate isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) at the 7-hydroxyl position in vitro. In comparison with the strict substrate specificity for PlUGT15 and PlUGT57, PlUGT4 displayed utilization of a broad range of sugar acceptors. Particularly, PlUGT15 exhibited a much higher catalytic efficiency toward isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) than any other identified 7-O-UGT from P. lobata. Moreover, the transcriptional expression patterns of these PlUGTs correlated with the accumulation of isoflavone glucosides in MeJA-treated P. lobata, suggesting their possible in vivo roles in the glycosylation process.

Recent progress on biocompatible nanocarrier-based genistein delivery systems in cancer therapy

Diets with naturally occuring chemopreventive agents are showing good potentials in serving dual purposes: firstly, for maintaining health, and secondly, for emerging as most puissant cost-effective strategy against chronic diseases like cancer. Genistein, one of the active soy isoflavone, is gaining attention due to its ability to impede carcinogenic processes by regulating wide range of associated molecules and signalling mechanisms. Epidemiologic and preclinical evidences suggest that sufficient consumption of soy-based food having genistein can be correlated to the reduction of cancer risk. However, certain adverse effects like poor oral bioavailability, low aqueous solubility and inefficient pharmacokinetics have pushed it down in the list of phytoconstituents currently undergoing successful clinical trials. In order to maximise the utilisation of therapeutic benefits of this phytoestrogen, suitable drug carrier designs are required. Recently, nanocarriers, mainly composed of polymeric materials, are progressively and innovatively exploited with the aim to improve pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of genistein. Here, we have briefly reviewed (a) the targeted molecular mechanisms of geinstein, (b) nanopolymeric approaches opted so far in designing carriers and (c) the reasons behind their restricted clinical applications. Finally, some mechanism-based approaches are proposed presenting genistein as the future paradigm in cancer therapy.

Craft Beers made with Addition of Umbrian Legumes: Healthy and Nutritional Characterization

Legumes are very rich in phytochemicals and in particular isoflavones. In this work we have developed techniques to get the brewing craft beers made with the addition of Umbrian legumes (chickling and lentils), to verify if the healthy and nutritional characteristic of these product change. The results obtained show that probably during the processes of cooking and fermentation a transfer of the biologically active substances from the “special ingredients” to the finished beer takes place. From healthy and nutritional characterization of the beers important results emerged: an interesting mineral profile and a large content of molecules with antioxidant activity like phenolic compounds (350–630 mg/L). It should also be noted that within the group of phenolic compounds present in these beers were also found interesting amount of isoflavones in particular genistin and daidzin, which in addition to being powerful antioxidants have other beneficial effects and therefore can act in the prevention of cancer, inflammatory, cardiovascular, postmenopausal, cognitive, and immune diseases.

Role of soybean-derived bioactive compounds in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Patients with IBD present with debilitating symptoms that alter the quality of life and can develop into severe complications requiring surgery. Epidemiological evidence indicates Westernized societies have an elevated IBD burden when compared with Asian societies. Considering the stark contrast between the typical Western and Eastern dietary patterns, it is postulated that differences in food and lifestyle contribute to lower IBD incidence in Asian countries. Soybeans (Glycine max), which are consumed in high quantities and as various preparations in Eastern societies, contain a wealth of natural, biologically active compounds that include isoflavones, bioactive peptides, protease inhibitors, and phytosterols, among many others. These compounds have been shown to improve human health, and preclinical evidence suggests they have potential to improve the prognosis of IBD. This review summarizes the current state of evidence regarding the effects and the mechanisms of action of these soybean-derived bioactive compounds in experimental models of IBD.

Phytonutrient genistein is a survival factor for pancreatic β-cells via GPR30-mediated mechanism

We previously discovered that phytonutrient genistein rapidly activates cAMP signaling in β-cells and improves islet mass in diabetic mice. However, the mechanism underlying these actions of genistein is still unclear. Here, we show that pharmacological or molecular inhibition of Gαs blocked genistein-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in plasma membrane and intracellular cAMP production in INS1 cells and islets. Further, genistein stimulation of cAMP generation was abolished in islets exposed to a specific GPR30 inhibitor G15 or islets from GPR30 deficient (GPR30-/-) mice. In vivo, dietary provision of genistein (0.5 g/kg diet) significantly mitigated streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia in male WT mice, which was associated with improved blood insulin levels and pancreatic islet mass and survival, whereas these effects were absent in Gpr30-/- mice. Genistein treatment promoted survival of INS1 cells and human islets chronically exposed to palmitate and high glucose. At molecular level, genistein activated CREB phosphorylation and subsequently induced Bcl-2 expression, and knockdown of CREB diminished the protective effect of genistein on β-cells induced by lipoglucotoxicity. Finally, deletion of GPR30 in β-cells or islets ablated genistein-induced CREB phosphorylation and its cytoprotective effect. These findings demonstrate that genistein is a survival factor for β-cells via GPR30-initiated, Gαs-mediated activation of CREB.