Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of the Expression of Antioxidant and Immunity Genes in the Spleen of a Cyanidin 3-O-Glucoside-Treated Alzheimer's Mouse Model

The involvement of ROS-regulated programmed cell death in hepatocellular carcinoma

Reactive oxidative species (ROS) is a crucial factor in the regulation of cellular biological activity and function, and aberrant levels of ROS can contribute to the development of a variety of diseases, particularly cancer. Numerous discoveries have affirmed that this process is strongly associated with "programmed cell death (PCD)," which refers to the suicide protection mechanism initiated by cells in response to external stimuli, such as apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, etc. Research has demonstrated that ROS-induced PCD is crucial for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These activities serve a dual function in both facilitating and inhibiting cancer, suggesting the existence of a delicate balance within healthy cells that can be disrupted by the abnormal generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby influencing the eventual advancement or regression of a tumor. In this review, we summarize how ROS regulates PCD to influence the tumorigenesis and progression of HCC. Studying how ROS-induced PCD affects the progression of HCC at a molecular level can help develop better prevention and treatment methods and facilitate the design of more effective preventative and therapeutic strategies.

1-Deoxynojirimycin containing Morus alba leaf-based food modulates the gut microbiome and expression of genes related to obesity

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a serious disease with an alarmingly high incidence that can lead to other complications in both humans and dogs. Similar to humans, obesity can cause metabolic diseases such as diabetes in dogs. Natural products may be the preferred intervention for metabolic diseases such as obesity. The compound 1-deoxynojirimycin, present in Morus leaves and other sources has antiobesity effects. The possible antiobesity effect of 1-deoxynojirimycin containing Morus alba leaf-based food was studied in healthy companion dogs (n = 46) visiting the veterinary clinic without a history of diseases. Body weight, body condition score (BCS), blood-related parameters, and other vital parameters of the dogs were studied. Whole-transcriptome of blood and gut microbiome analysis was also carried out to investigate the possible mechanisms of action and role of changes in the gut microbiome due to treatment.

RESULTS

After 90 days of treatment, a significant antiobesity effect of the treatment food was observed through the reduction of weight, BCS, and blood-related parameters. A whole-transcriptome study revealed differentially expressed target genes important in obesity and diabetes-related pathways such as MLXIPL, CREB3L1, EGR1, ACTA2, SERPINE1, NOTCH3, and CXCL8. Gut microbiome analysis also revealed a significant difference in alpha and beta-diversity parameters in the treatment group. Similarly, the microbiota known for their health-promoting effects such as Lactobacillus ruminis, and Weissella hellenica were abundant (increased) in the treatment group. The predicted functional pathways related to obesity were also differentially abundant between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

1-Deoxynojirimycin-containing treatment food have been shown to significantly improve obesity. The identified genes, pathways, and gut microbiome-related results may be pursued in further studies to develop 1-deoxynojirimycin-based products as candidates against obesity.

The Bioactivity and Phytochemicals of Muscari comosum (Leopoldia comosa), a Plant of Multiple Pharmacological Activities

Leopoldia comosa (LC), popularly known as Muscari comosum, spontaneously grows in the Mediterranean region and its bulbs are used as a vegetable. Traditionally, they are also used to treat various diseases and conditions, which has inspired the study of the pharmacological activities of different parts of LC. These studies revealed the numerous biological properties of LC including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetes, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-Alzheimer's disease, antibacterial, and immune stimulant. High antioxidant activity compared to other non-cultivated plants, and the potential role of antioxidant activity in other reported activities make LC an excellent candidate to be developed as an antioxidant plant against important associated diseases. The presence of a diverse class of phytochemicals (n = 85), especially flavonoids and homoisoflavones, in LC, also imparts significance to the nutraceutical candidature of the plant. However, limited animal studies and the lack of a directional approach have limited the further design of effective clinical studies for the development of LC. The current study is the first attempt to comprehensively compile information regarding the phytochemicals and pharmacological activities of LC, emphasize the targets/markers targeted by LC, important in other activities, and also highlight the current gaps and propose possible bridges for the development of LC as a therapeutic and/or supplement against important diseases.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside protects the brain and improves cognitive function in APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic mice model

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is a natural anthocyanin with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties. However, as the effects of C3G on the amyloidogenic pathway, autophagy, tau phosphorylation, neuronal cell death, and synaptic plasticity in Alzheimer's disease models have not been reported, we attempted to investigate the same in the brains of APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mice were analyzed. After oral administration of C3G (30 mg/kg/day) for 16 weeks, the cortical and hippocampal regions in the brains of APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mice were analyzed. C3G treatment reduced the levels of soluble and insoluble Aβ (Aβ40 and Aβ42) peptides and reduced the protein expression of the amyloid precursor protein, presenilin-1, and β-secretase in the cortical and hippocampal regions. And C3G treatment upregulated the expression of autophagy-related markers, LC3B-II, LAMP-1, TFEB, and PPAR-α and downregulated that of SQSTM1/p62, improving the autophagy of Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. In addition, C3G increased the protein expression of phosphorylated-AMPK/AMPK and Sirtuin 1 and decreased that of mitogen-activated protein kinases, such as phosphorylated-Akt/Akt and phosphorylated-ERK/ERK, thus demonstrating its neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, C3G regulated the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signaling by upregulating phosphorylated-Akt/Akt and phosphorylated-GSK3β/GSK3β expression. C3G administration mitigated tau phosphorylation and improved synaptic function and plasticity by upregulating the expression of synapse-associated proteins synaptophysin and postsynaptic density protein-95. Although the potential of C3G in the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mouse models has not yet been reported, oral administration of the C3G is shown to protect the brain and improve cognitive behavior.

Advances in the Preparation, Stability, Metabolism, and Physiological Roles of Anthocyanins: A Review

Anthocyanins are natural flavonoid polyphenolic compounds widely found in fruits and vegetables. They exhibit antioxidant properties and prophylactic effects in the immune and cardiovascular systems, confer protection against cancer, and contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Thus, their incorporation into functional foods, pharmaceuticals, supplements, and cosmetic formulations aims at promoting human well-being. This review comprehensively outlined the structural attributes of anthocyanins, expanding upon diverse methodologies employed for their extraction and production. Additionally, the stability, metabolic pathways, and manifold physiological functions of anthocyanins were discussed. However, their constrained fat solubility, susceptibility to instability, and restricted bioavailability collectively curtail their applicability and therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, a multidimensional approach was imperative, necessitating the exploration of innovative pathways to surmount these limitations, thereby amplifying the utilitarian significance of anthocyanins and furnishing pivotal support for their continual advancement and broader application.

Anthocyanins as Immunomodulatory Dietary Supplements: A Nutraceutical Perspective and Micro-/Nano-Strategies for Enhanced Bioavailability

Anthocyanins (ACNs) have attracted considerable attention for their potential to modulate the immune system. Research has revealed their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which play a crucial role in immune regulation by influencing key immune cells, such as lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Moreover, ACNs contribute towards maintaining a balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, thus promoting immune health. Beyond their direct effects on immune cells, ACNs significantly impact gut health and the microbiota, essential factors in immune regulation. Emerging evidence suggests that they positively influence the composition of the gut microbiome, enhancing their immunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, these compounds synergize with other bioactive substances, such as vitamins and minerals, further enhancing their potential as immune-supporting dietary supplements. However, detailed clinical studies must fully validate these findings and determine safe dosages across varied populations. Incorporating these natural compounds into functional foods or supplements could revolutionize the management of immune-related conditions. Personalized nutrition and healthcare strategies may be developed to enhance overall well-being and immune resilience by fully understanding the mechanisms underlying the actions of their components. Recent advancements in delivery methods have focused on improving the bioavailability and effectiveness of ACNs, providing promising avenues for future applications.

Optimization of the Green Extraction of Red Araçá (Psidium catteyanum Sabine) and Application in Alginate Membranes for Use as Dressings

In this research, the aim was to introduce innovation to the pharmaceutical field through the exploration of an underutilized plant matrix, the red araçá, along with the utilization of sodium alginate for the development of membranes designed for active topical dressings. Within this context, optimal extraction conditions were investigated using the central composite rotational statistical design (CCRD) to obtain a red araçá epicarp extract (RAEE) rich in bioactive compounds utilizing the maceration technique. The extract acquired under the optimized conditions (temperature of 66 °C and a hydroalcoholic solvent concentration of 32%) was incorporated into a sodium alginate matrix for the production of active membranes using a casting method. Characterization of the membranes revealed that the addition of the extract did not significantly alter its morphology. Furthermore, satisfactory results were observed regarding mechanical and barrier properties, as well as the controlled release of phenolic compounds in an environment simulating wound exudate. Based on these findings, the material produced from renewable matrices demonstrates the promising potential for application as a topical dressing within the pharmaceutical industry.

Pharmacological Activities of Mogrol: Potential Phytochemical against Different Diseases

Recently, mogrol has emerged as an important therapeutic candidate with multiple potential pharmacological properties, including neuroprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antidiabetes, and exerting a protective effect on different organs such as the lungs, bone, brain, and colon. Pharmacokinetic studies also highlighted the potential of mogrol as a therapeutic. Studies were also conducted to design and synthesize the analogs of mogrol to achieve better activities against different diseases. The literature also highlighted the possible molecular mechanism behind pharmacological activities, which suggested the role of several important targets, including AMPK, TNF-α, and NF-κB. These important mogrol targets were verified in different studies, indicating the possible role of mogrol in other associated diseases. Still, the compilation of pharmacological properties, possible molecular mechanisms, and important targets of the mogrol is missing in the literature. The current study not only provides the compilation of information regarding pharmacological activities but also highlights the current gaps and suggests the precise direction for the development of mogrol as a therapeutic against different diseases.

Antioxidant Activity of Urtica dioica: An Important Property Contributing to Multiple Biological Activities

Urtica dioica (UD) is a multi-functional plant known to be used as both food and medicine from ancient times. The plant has the potential to be used as a fertilizer and for biological pest control. It is also used in textile and related industries for its quality fibers. In the recent past, the plant has received great attention for its numerous important biological activities and food applications. The antioxidant activity of UD is the crucial factor supporting its important biological activities, such as anticancer, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant activity of UD is also found to be protective in different organs, including the brain, liver, lungs, kidney, ovary, and uterus, and may also be protective against diseases associated with these organs. Few clinical studies have endorsed the antioxidant potential of UD in patients. The current work is an attempt to comprehensively compile and discuss the antioxidant activity of UD from in vitro, in vivo and human studies. The insights of the current study would be helpful in getting a panoramic view of the antioxidant potential of UD, and provide direction for optimizing and developing it for therapeutic applications against important diseases and conditions in the near future.

Mulberry Leaf Supplements Effecting Anti-Inflammatory Genes and Improving Obesity in Elderly Overweight Dogs

Overweight and obesity, associated with various health complications, refer to abnormal or excessive fat accumulation conditions that harm health. Like humans, obesity is a growing problem in dogs, which may increase the risk of serious diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Mulberry leaf has shown potential anti-obesity and anti-diabetes effects in several studies. Our research studied the impact of mulberry leaf supplements in healthy old overweight dogs for 12 weeks. Blood and fecal samples were collected from the dogs before and after treatment for different analyses, including whole transcriptome and gut microbiome analysis. The Body Condition Score (BCS) and blood glucose levels were significantly decreased in all mulberry treatment groups, which justifies the anti-obesity effect of mulberry leaf in dogs. Throughout the whole transcriptome study, the downregulation of PTX3 and upregulation of PDCD-1, TNFRSF1B, RUNX3, and TICAM1 genes in the high mulberry group were found, which have been associated with anti-inflammatory effects in the literature. It may be an essential gene expression mechanism responsible for the anti-inflammatory and, subsequently, anti-obesity effects associated with mulberry leaf treatment, as confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. In microbiome analysis, Papillibacter cinnamivorans, related to the Mediterranean diet, which may cause anti-inflammatory effects, were abundant in the same treatment group. Further studies may be required to establish the gene expression mechanism and role of abundant bacteria in the anti-obesity effect of mulberry supplements in dogs. Overall, we propose mulberry leaves as a portion of food supplements for improving blood glucose levels and the anti-inflammation of blood in companion dogs.

Maize Flavonoid Biosynthesis, Regulation, and Human Health Relevance: A Review

Maize is one of the most important crops for human and animal consumption and contains a chemical arsenal essential for survival: flavonoids. Moreover, flavonoids are well known for their beneficial effects on human health. In this review, we decided to organize the information about maize flavonoids into three sections. In the first section, we include updated information about the enzymatic pathway of maize flavonoids. We describe a total of twenty-one genes for the flavonoid pathway of maize. The first three genes participate in the general phenylpropanoid pathway. Four genes are common biosynthetic early genes for flavonoids, and fourteen are specific genes for the flavonoid subgroups, the anthocyanins, and flavone C-glycosides. The second section explains the tissue accumulation and regulation of flavonoids by environmental factors affecting the expression of the MYB-bHLH-WD40 (MBW) transcriptional complex. The study of transcription factors of the MBW complex is fundamental for understanding how the flavonoid profiles generate a palette of colors in the plant tissues. Finally, we also include an update of the biological activities of C3G, the major maize anthocyanin, including anticancer, antidiabetic, and antioxidant effects, among others. This review intends to disclose and integrate the existing knowledge regarding maize flavonoid pigmentation and its relevance in the human health sector.

Protective Effect of Bilberry Anthocyanin Extracts on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Intestinal Damage in Drosophila melanogaster

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic recurrent disease that can be controlled by various natural extracts. Anthocyanins (ANCs) from bilberry have significant antioxidant capacity and are widely used as food colors and antioxidants. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of bilberry anthocyanin extracts (BANCs) against dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced intestinal inflammation in a Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) model, and the effects on the lifespan, antioxidant capacity, intestinal characteristics, and microbiome and gene expression profiles were analyzed to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms. In DSS-induced normal and axenic D. melanogaster, BANCs significantly increased the survival rate, maintained the intestinal morphology and integrity, and reduced the number of dead intestinal epithelial cells and the ROS level of these cells. BANC supplementation had no significant effect on the intestinal microflora of DSS-induced D. melanogaster, as demonstrated by a 16S rDNA analysis, but improved the antioxidant capacity by activating the relative gene expression of NRF2 signaling pathways in the intestine of D. melanogaster with DSS-induced inflammation. Therefore, the results demonstrate that BANCs effectively alleviate intestinal inflammatory injury induced by DSS and improve the antioxidant capacity of D. melanogaster by modulating NRF2 signaling pathways, and could thus promote the application of BANCs as functional foods.

Biological Activities and Phytochemicals of Lungworts (Genus Pulmonaria) Focusing on Pulmonaria officinalis

Lungworts (members of genus Pulmonaria), especially Pulmonaria officinalis, have been used as medicinal plants in folk and traditional medicine. The potential biological activities of lungworts, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-neurodegenerative, skin whitening, anticoagulant, antibacterial, anti-anemic, anticonvulsant, and wound-healing properties, have been observed in different studies. More than 90 phytochemicals belonging to pharmacologically active phytochemical classes have been reported for lungworts, which can be considered as one of the important contributors to the biological properties along with micronutrients. However, safety studies and clinical trials are missing for lungworts to establish most of their potential biological properties. Similarly, in vivo studies are lacking for anti-inflammatory and anti-neurodegenerative disorders and more in vivo studies are required to strengthen the knowledge of their antioxidant, anticoagulant, and anti-convulsant properties. A comprehensive compilation of the phytochemicals and biological properties of lungworts is also lacking in the literature, which can provide future direction for further pharmacological research. Hence, an attempt has been made in this study to compile the phytochemicals and biological properties to not only provide the resources for the design of further research to develop the pharmacological application of lungworts, but also to highlight the gaps and provide suggestions for future development.

The Bioactivity and Phytochemicals of Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb.: A Multifunctional Underutilized Crop Plant

Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb. is an underutilized crop plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. In recent years, the plant received huge attention and was introduced in different countries owing to properties such as a high nutritional content, its nitrogen-fixing abilities, and different biological activities such as its antioxidant, immune modulation, anticancer, anti-diabetes, anti-osteoporosis, antiviral, and antiaging affects, among others. In this review, an attempt has been made to comprehensively compile the biological activities of the plant to provide a panoramic view of the current efforts and further directions, which may lead to the development of pharmacological applications. This information will be helpful in creating interest towards P. erosus and it may be useful in developing the plant for medical applications and/or as a functional food. More than 50 phytochemicals have been reported from the plant, which belong to different chemical classes such as triterpenoids, organic acid, flavonoids, and fatty acids. Numerous biological activities were reported from the plant through in vivo, in vitro, ex vivo, and human studies. However, well-defined clinical studies are still lacking for the establishment of any biological properties that could be further developed. Suggestions for the further development of P. erosus, according to current knowledge about the different biological properties, has also been provided.

Impact of Simulated Gastrointestinal Conditions on Antiglycoxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibition Capacities of Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is a widespread anthocyanin derivative, which has been reported in vitro to exert potent antioxidant, antiglycation and α-glucosidase inhibition effects. Nevertheless, the physiological relevance of such properties remains uncertain considering its significant instability in gastrointestinal conditions. A simulated digestion procedure was thus instigated to assess the influence of gastric and intestinal media on its chemical integrity and biological activities. HPLC analyses of digested C3G samples confirmed the striking impact of intestinal conditions, as attested by a decomposition ratio of 70%. In contrast, with recovery rates of around 90%, antiglycation, as well as DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays, uniformly revealed a noteworthy persistence of its antiglycoxidant capacities. Remarkably, a prominent increase of its α-glucosidase inhibition activity was even observed after the intestinal phase, suggesting that classical in vitro evaluations might underestimate C3G antidiabetic potential. Consequently, the present data provide novel and specific insights on C3G’s digestive fate, suggesting that the gastrointestinal tract does not profoundly affect its positive action on oxidative and carbonyl stresses. More specifically, it also tends to support its regulating effects on postprandial hyperglycemia and its potential usefulness for diabetes management.