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Vaneková Z, Holloway P, Rollinger JM. Vaccinium uliginosum L. (bog bilberry) and the search for its alleged toxicity: a review. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1358840. [PMID: 38357417 PMCID: PMC10864615 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1358840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Bog bilberry (Vaccinium uliginosum L.) is a wild-growing berry native to all circumboreal regions. There is however a significant discrepancy in the uses of bog bilberry fruits around the world. There exists a strong prejudice against the use of these berries in many European countries as well as a few incidences of poisoning reported between 1906 and 1944. In Asia and North America, this fear is completely absent from the local knowledge and the bog bilberry is valued as an excellent food and medicinal plant. There has been a lack of research on the topic in the last 50 years and thus the presumed toxicity remains unproven. This review aims to gather the conflicting information from all regions where bog bilberry grows and present them in a critical way to elucidate the possible explanations for the discrepancies. There are several possible explanations for the alleged toxicity of the bog bilberry, including a fungal infection of the fruits, individual intolerance or accidental poisoning by a different plant species; the local names meaning "drunk, inebriating, vomit-inducing berry" may be related to the alcoholic drinks made from them. This review highlights the gap in knowledge and serves as a theoretical framework for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Vaneková
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patricia Holloway
- Institute of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK, United States
| | - Judith M. Rollinger
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Vladimir-Knežević S, Bival Štefan M, Blažeković B, Jelić D, Petković T, Mandić M, Šprajc E, Lovković S. Src Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitory and Antioxidant Activity of Black Chokeberry and Bilberry Fruit Extracts Rich in Chlorogenic Acid. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15512. [PMID: 37958496 PMCID: PMC10650546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible berries such as the fruits of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott) and bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) are considered to be rich in phenolic compounds, which are nowadays attracting great interest due to their promising health benefits. The main objective of our study was to investigate, for the first time, their inhibitory properties on Src tyrosine kinase activity, as this enzyme plays an important role in multiple cellular processes and is activated in both cancer and inflammatory cells. In hydroethanolic fruit extracts, 5.0-5.9% of total polyphenols were determined spectrophotometrically, including high amounts of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. HPLC analysis revealed that the black chokeberry and bilberry extracts contained 2.05 mg/g and 2.54 mg/g of chlorogenic acid, respectively. Using a time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assay, the extracts studied were found to have comparable inhibitory effects on Src tyrosine kinase, with IC50 values of 366 µg/mL and 369 µg/mL, respectively. The results also indicated that chlorogenic acid contributes significantly to the observed effect. In addition, both fruit extracts exhibited antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH and NO radicals with SC50 values of 153-352 µg/mL. Our study suggested that black chokeberry and bilberry fruits may be beneficial in cancer and other inflammation-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanda Vladimir-Knežević
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.V.-K.); (B.B.); (T.P.)
| | - Maja Bival Štefan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.V.-K.); (B.B.); (T.P.)
| | - Biljana Blažeković
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.V.-K.); (B.B.); (T.P.)
| | | | - Tea Petković
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.V.-K.); (B.B.); (T.P.)
| | - Marta Mandić
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
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Kopystecka A, Kozioł I, Radomska D, Bielawski K, Bielawska A, Wujec M. Vaccinium uliginosum and Vaccinium myrtillus-Two Species-One Used as a Functional Food. Nutrients 2023; 15:4119. [PMID: 37836403 PMCID: PMC10574057 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccinium uliginosum L. (commonly known as bog bilberry) and Vaccinium myrtillus L. (commonly known as bilberry) are species of the genus Vaccinium (family Ericaceae). The red-purple-blue coloration of blueberries is attributed largely to the anthocyanins found in bilberries. Anthocyanins, known for their potent biological activity as antioxidants, have a significant involvement in the prophylaxis of cancer or other diseases, including those of metabolic origin. Bilberry is the most important economically wild berry in Northern Europe, and it is also extensively used in juice and food production. A review of the latest literature was performed to assess the composition and biological activity of V. uliginosum and V. myrtillus. Clinical studies confirm the benefits of V. uliginosum and V. myrtillus supplementation as part of a healthy diet. Because of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and apoptosis-reducing activity, both bog bilberries and bilberries can be used interchangeably as a dietary supplement with anti-free radical actions in the prevention of cancer diseases and cataracts, or as a component of sunscreen preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kopystecka
- Students’ Scientific Circle on Medical Law at the Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Ilona Kozioł
- Students’ Scientific Circle on Medical Law at the Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Dominika Radomska
- Department of Synthesis and Technology of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Kilinskiego 1 Street, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Bielawski
- Department of Synthesis and Technology of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Kilinskiego 1 Street, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Anna Bielawska
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Kilinskiego 1 Street, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Monika Wujec
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodzki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Huang H, Luo Y, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Li Z, He R, Chen X, Dong Z. Vaccinium as Potential Therapy for Diabetes and Microvascular Complications. Nutrients 2023; 15:2031. [PMID: 37432140 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most critical global health concerns, with a fast-growing prevalence. The incidence of diabetic vascular complications is also rapidly increasing, exacerbating the burden on individuals with diabetes and the consumption of public medical resources. Despite the overall improvements in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetic microvascular complications in recent years, safe and effective alternative or adjunctive therapies are urgently needed. The mechanisms underlying diabetic vascular complications are complex, with hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation being the leading causes. Therefore, glycemic control, antioxidation, and anti-inflammation are considered the main targets for the treatment of diabetes and its vascular comorbidities. Vaccinium L. (Ericaceae) is a genus of plants enriched with polyphenolic compounds in their leaves and fruits. Vaccinium and its extracts have demonstrated good bioactivity in reducing blood glucose, oxidative stress, and inflammation, making them excellent candidates for the management of diabetes and diabetic vascular complications. Here, we review recent preclinical and clinical studies on the potential effect of Vaccinium on ameliorating diabetes and diabetic complications, particularly diabetic kidney disease and diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yayong Luo
- National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qian Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yihan Zhang
- BYHEALTH Institute of Nutrition & Health, No. 3 Kehui 3rd Street, No. 99 Kexue Avenue Central, Huangpu District, Guangzhou 510663, China
| | - Zhongxia Li
- BYHEALTH Institute of Nutrition & Health, No. 3 Kehui 3rd Street, No. 99 Kexue Avenue Central, Huangpu District, Guangzhou 510663, China
| | - Ruikun He
- BYHEALTH Institute of Nutrition & Health, No. 3 Kehui 3rd Street, No. 99 Kexue Avenue Central, Huangpu District, Guangzhou 510663, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zheyi Dong
- National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, China
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Aguilera JM, Toledo T. Wild berries and related wild small fruits as traditional healthy foods. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:5603-5617. [PMID: 36514960 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2156475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The consumption of cultivated berry species (e.g., strawberries, blueberries) has increased dramatically in the last two decades after consumers appreciated them as flavorful, convenient and healthy fruits. Wild berries and similar small wild fruits are traditionally consumed around the world by local people as safe, nutritious, tasty, and versatile foods. These wild fruits have played an important role in the nutrition and bio-cultural aspects of rural communities. Like their commercial counterparts, wild berries contain important nutrients and bioactive compounds that may prevent or delay some chronic diseases attributed to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. This review provides a comprehensive appraisal of the chemical and bioactive components in wild berry species and their traditional uses as foods around the globe. Presently, wild berries and similar wild small fruits are novel food sources that inspire applications as culinary products, processed foods, and nutraceuticals. Further research is needed to validate the content and action of bioactive components responsible for health claims. Sustainable commercial exploitation of wild berries should consider biocultural, environmental, and socio-economic aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Miguel Aguilera
- Department of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tamar Toledo
- Department of Food Science and Chemical Technology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Bilberry ( Vaccinium myrtillus L.). Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:4570-4583. [PMID: 36286028 PMCID: PMC9601269 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44100313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is important in the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory properties of berries have been investigated but the anti-inflammatory activity of bilberry has received little attention and a detailed review is yet to be published. Therefore, we compiled information on the phytochemicals of bilberry and preclinical and clinical studies of its anti-inflammatory properties. The review was based on studies from 2007 to date. Phytoconstituents of bilberries were phenolic acids, organic acids, anthocyanins, coumarins, flavonols, flavanols, tannins, terpenoids, and volatile chemicals. Data from cell and animal model studies show that bilberry has an anti-inflammatory effect by lowering tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β expression, inducing nitric oxide synthases and cyclooxygenases, and altering the nuclear factor kappa B and Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathways. Bilberry supplementation as fruits (frozen, processed, and whole), juices, and anthocyanins reduced levels of inflammatory markers in most clinical studies of metabolic disorders. Therefore, bilberry may be useful for the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders.
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