Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) May Be a Striking Link Between Modern Diet and Health

Comparison of intestinal absorption of soybean protein isolate-, glutenin- and peanut protein isolate-bound Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), a heterogeneous compound existed in processed foods, are related to chronic diseases when they are accumulated excessively in human organs. Protein-bound Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) as a typical AGE, is widely determined to evaluate AGEs level in foods and in vivo. This study investigated the intestinal absorption of three protein-bound CML originated from main food raw materials (soybean, wheat and peanut). After in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, the three protein-bound CML digests were ultrafiltered and divided into four fractions: less than 1 kDa, between 1 and 3 kDa, between 3 and 5 kDa, greater than 5 kDa. Caco-2 cell monolayer model was further used to evaluate the intestinal absorption of these components. Results showed that the absorption rates of soybean protein isolate (SPI)-, glutenin (Glu)-, peanut protein isolate (PPI)-bound CML were 30.18%, 31.57% and 29.5%, respectively. The absorption rates of components with MW less than 5 kDa accounted for 19.91% (SPI-bound CML), 22.59% (Glu-bound CML), 23.64% (PPI-bound CML), respectively, and these samples were absorbed by paracellular route, transcytosis route and active route via PepT-1. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that all three protein-bound CML digests with different MW can be absorbed in diverse absorption pathways by Caco-2 cell monolayer model. This research provided a theoretical basis for scientific evaluation of digestion and absorption of AGEs in food.

Formation and Reduction of Toxic Compounds Derived from the Maillard Reaction During the Thermal Processing of Different Food Matrices

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), acrylamide (AA), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic substances that are produced in certain foods during thermal processing by using common high-temperature unit operations such as frying, baking, roasting, grill cooking, extrusion, among others. Understanding the formation pathways of these potential risk factors, which can cause cancer or contribute to the development of many chronic diseases in humans, is crucial for reducing their occurrence in thermally processed foods. During thermal processing, food rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids undergoes a crucial Maillard reaction, leading to the production of highly active carbonyl compounds. These compounds then react with other substances to form harmful substances, which ultimately affect negatively the health of the human body. Although these toxic compounds differ in various forms of formation, they all partake in the common Maillard pathway. This review primarily summarizes the occurrence, formation pathways, and reduction measures of common toxic compounds during the thermal processing of food, based on independent studies for each specific contaminant in its corresponding food matrix. Finally, it provides several approaches for the simultaneous reduction of multiple toxic compounds.

Glyoxal and methylglyoxal formation in chocolate and their bioaccessibility

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of simulated digestion on the formation of α-dicarbonyl compounds (α-DCs) in chocolates. For that purpose, the concentrations of glyoxal and methylglyoxal in chocolates were determined through High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis before and after in vitro digestion. The initial concentrations ranged from 0.0 and 228.2 µg/100 g, and 0.0 and 555.1 for glyoxal and methylglyoxal, respectively. Following digestion, there was a significant increase in both glyoxal and methylglyoxal levels, reaching up to 1804 % and 859 %, respectively. The findings indicate that digestive system conditions facilitate the formation of advanced glycation end product (AGE) precursors. Also, glyoxal and methylglyoxal levels were found to be low in chocolate samples containing dark chocolate. In contrast, they were found to be high in samples containing hazelnuts, almonds, pistache, and milk. Further studies should focus on α-DCs formation under digestive system conditions, including the colon, to determine the effects of gut microbiota.

Skin Aging and the Upcoming Role of Ferroptosis in Geroscience

The skin is considered the most important organ system in mammals, and as the population ages, it is important to consider skin aging and anti-aging therapeutic strategies. Exposure of the skin to various insults induces significant changes throughout our lives, differentiating the skin of a young adult from that of an older adult. These changes are caused by a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic aging. We report the interactions between skin aging and its metabolism, showing that the network is due to several factors. For example, iron is an important nutrient for humans, but its level increases with aging, inducing deleterious effects on cellular functions. Recently, it was discovered that ferroptosis, or iron-dependent cell death, is linked to aging and skin diseases. The pursuit of new molecular targets for ferroptosis has recently attracted attention. Prevention of ferroptosis is an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of diseases, especially in old age. However, the pathological and biological mechanisms underlying ferroptosis are still not fully understood, especially in skin diseases such as melanoma and autoimmune diseases. Only a few basic studies on regulated cell death exist, and the challenge is to turn the studies into clinical applications.

Food process contaminants: formation, occurrence, risk assessment and mitigation strategies - a review

Thermal treatment of food can lead to the formation of potentially harmful chemicals, known as process contaminants. These are adventitious contaminants that are formed in food during processing and preparation. Various food processing techniques, such as heating, drying, grilling, and fermentation, can generate hazardous chemicals such as acrylamide (AA), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), furan, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), N-nitroso compounds (NOCs), monochloropropane diols (MCPD) and their esters (MCPDE) which can be detrimental to human health. Despite efforts to prevent the formation of these compounds during processing, eliminating them is often challenging due to their unknown formation mechanisms. It is critical to identify the potential harm to human health in processed food and understand the mechanisms by which harmful compounds form during processing, as prolonged exposure to these toxic compounds can lead to health problems. Various mitigation strategies, such as the use of diverse pre- and post-processing treatments, product reformulation, additives, variable process conditions, and novel integrated processing techniques, have been proposed to control these food hazards. In this review, we summarize the formation and occurrence, the potential for harm to human health produced by process contaminants in food, and potential mitigation strategies to minimize their impact.

Turning Wastes into Resources: Red Grape Pomace-Enriched Biscuits with Potential Health-Promoting Properties

The life-long adherence to a dietary pattern able to provide a high amount of polyphenols demonstrating beneficial cardiometabolic effects is demanding for the general population. In this study, red grape pomace (GP) was used as an ingredient to increase the daily polyphenols' intake. The incorporation of crude crushed GP at 20 and 30% (w/w) in a control (CTR) biscuit formula improved the nutritional profile by increasing the fiber and reducing lipid and energy content while providing up to 540 mgGAE of polyphenols per 100 g. Besides anthocyanins, GP contains flavonoids and grape-seed procyanidins, contributing to the remarkable antioxidant capacity of 20- and 30-GP biscuits. Upon in vitro gastro-duodenal enzymatic digestion, the concentration of reducing sugars for 20-GP and 30-GP compared to the CTR biscuits dropped significantly, meaning that the combined action of GP fibers and polyphenols could delay the intestinal absorption of glucose. Overall, 60 volatiles were detected in biscuits. All in all, the content of Maillard reaction products was lower in GP than in CTR biscuits, possibly due to the free radical scavenging ability of polyphenols. Despite the high rates of GP utilized, the sensorial attributes and the overall liking of the GP biscuits-especially the 20-GP ones-were not substantially affected. These findings will support nutritional studies to assess the potential role as functional foods of GP biscuits, and, afterwards, the large-scale production of a food mainly based on a waste ingredient turned into a resource.

Modulations of the mTORC2-GATA3 axis by an isorhamnetin activated endosomal-lysosomal system of the J774.1 macrophage-like cell line

The endosomal-lysosomal system represents a crucial degradation pathway for various extracellular substances, and its dysfunction is linked to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This degradation process involves multiple steps: (1) the uptake of extracellular molecules, (2) transport of cargos to lysosomes, and (3) digestion by lysosomal enzymes. While cellular uptake and lysosomal function are reportedly regulated by the mTORC1-TFEB axis, the key regulatory signal for cargo transport remains unclear. Notably, our previous study discovered that isorhamnetin, a dietary flavonoid, enhances endosomal-lysosomal proteolysis in the J774.1 cell line independently of the mTORC1-TFEB axis. This finding suggests the involvement of another signal in the mechanism of isorhamnetin. This study analyzes the molecular mechanism of isorhamnetin using transcriptome analysis and reveals that the transcription factor GATA3 plays a critical role in enhanced endosomal-lysosomal degradation. Our data also demonstrate that mTORC2 regulates GATA3 nuclear translocation, and the mTORC2-GATA3 axis alters endosomal formation and maturation, facilitating the efficient transport of cargos to lysosomes. This study suggests that the mTORC2-GATA3 axis might be a novel target for the degradation of abnormal substances.

Association of Maternal Dietary Habits and Infant MTHFR Gene Polymorphisms with Ventricular Septal Defect in Offspring: A Case-Control Study

This study aimed to explore the association of maternal diet, infant MTHFR gene polymorphisms, and their interactions with the risk of ventricular septal defects (VSDs). This case-control study recruited 448 mothers of VSD children and 620 mothers of healthy counterparts. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between maternal dietary habits during the first trimester of gestation, MTHFR gene polymorphisms, and VSD. Gene-environment interaction effects were analyzed through logistic regression models, with false discovery rate p-value (FDR_p) < 0.05. Maternal excessive intake of fermented bean curd (OR = 2.00, 95%CI: 1.59-2.52), corned foods (OR = 2.23, 1.76-2.84), fumatory foods (OR = 1.75, 1.37-2.23), grilled foods (OR = 1.34, 1.04-1.72), and fried foods (OR = 1.80, 1.42-2.27) was associated with an increased risk of VSD. Regular intake of fish and shrimp (OR = 0.42, 0.33-0.53), fresh eggs (OR = 0.58, 0.44-0.75), soy products (OR = 0.69, 0.56-0.85), and dairy products (OR = 0.71, 0.59-0.85) was found to reduce the occurrence of VSD. Moreover, MTHFR gene polymorphisms at rs2066470 (homozygous: OR = 4.28, 1.68-10.90), rs1801133 (homozygous: OR = 2.28, 1.39-3.74), and rs1801131 (heterozygous: OR = 1.75, 1.24-2.47; homozygous: OR = 3.45, 1.50-7.95) elevated offspring susceptibility to VSDs. Furthermore, significant interactions of MTHFR polymorphisms with maternal dietary habits were observed, encompassing corned foods, fermented bean curd, fried foods, and grilled foods. Maternal dietary habits; MTHFR polymorphisms at rs2066470, rs1801131, and rs1801133; and their interactions were significantly associated with the occurrence of VSDs in offspring.

Dietary Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) and Urinary Fluorescent AGEs in Children and Adolescents: Findings from the Italian I.Family Project

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been implicated in chronic diseases in adults, but their role in paediatric populations remains uncertain. This study, conducted on the Italian sample of the I.Family project, aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary and urinary fluorescent AGEs in children and adolescents. The secondary objective was to investigate the sources of dietary AGEs (dAGEs) and their association with dietary composition and anthropometric parameters. Dietary data were collected from 1048 participants via 24 h dietary recall in 2013/2014 to estimate dAGEs intake, while urinary fluorescent AGE levels were measured in 544 individuals. Participants were stratified based on dAGEs intake and compared with respect to urinary fluorescent AGE levels, anthropometric measurements, and dietary intake. The results showed no significant correlation between dietary and urinary fluorescent AGE levels, nor between dAGEs and anthropometric parameters. Notably, higher dAGEs were associated with a diet richer in protein (especially from meat sources) and fat and lower in carbohydrates. In addition, the consumption of ultra-processed foods was lower in participants with a higher DAGE intake. This study highlights the lack of a clear association between dietary and urinary fluorescent AGEs in children, but suggests a distinctive dietary pattern associated with increased dAGEs intake. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the potential health implications of dAGEs in paediatric populations.

Mediterranean Diet Adherence, Physical Activity, and Advanced Glycation End Products in Complex PTSD: A Comprehensive Examination of Lifestyle and Cardiovascular Risk in War Veterans

As accumulated evidence suggests that individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) encounter earlier and more frequent occurrences of cardiovascular diseases, the aim of this study was to ascertain the differences in lifestyle and cardiovascular risk between PTSD and complex PTSD patients. We enrolled 137 male war veterans with PTSD (89 had complex PTSD). The diagnosis was established based on 11th revision of International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), and cardiovascular risk was estimated by the measurement of advanced glycation end products. Adherence to Mediterranean diet (MD) was lower in the complex PTSD group (2.2% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.015). Accordingly, patients with complex PTSD had lower healthy lifestyle scores in comparison to PTSD counterparts (50.6 ± 9.7 vs. 59.6 ± 10.1, p < 0.001), and a positive association was noted between MD adherence and a healthy lifestyle (r = 0.183, p = 0.022). On the other hand, differences were not noted in terms of physical activity (p = 0.424), fat % (p = 0.571) or cardiovascular risk (p = 0.573). Although complex PTSD patients exhibit worse adherence to MD and lower healthy lifestyle scores, these differences do not seem to impact physical activity, body composition, or estimated cardiovascular risk. More research is needed to clarify if this lack of association accurately reflects the state of the PTSD population or results from insufficient statistical power.

Theoretical Studies on the Reaction Mechanism of Schiff Base Formation from Hexoses

The Maillard reaction is one of the nonenzymatic post-translational modifications of proteins. Products of this reaction are considered to be related to aging diseases and the sensation of taste. In the initial stage of the Maillard reaction, Schiff base formation first occurs by the nucleophilic attack of amine nitrogen in proteins, and then, the reaction proceeds through the formation of 1,2-eminal and Amadori compounds. In this study, we computationally investigated the reaction pathway of Schiff base formation from hexoses. The optimized geometries of energy minima and transition states were calculated by using the density functional theory with the CAM-B3LYP/6-311+G(2d,2p) level of theory. The Schiff base formation progressed through three steps: two steps of carbinolamine formation and one step of dehydration. The dehydration is considered to be the rate-determining step in all hexoses because the activation barrier of the dehydration was higher than that of the carbinolamine formation. Furthermore, the steric configuration of the OH group at positions 2 and 3 affected the activation barrier.

Formation of Hesperetin-Methylglyoxal Adducts in Food and In Vivo, and Their Metabolism In Vivo and Potential Health Impacts

Polyphenols with a typical meta-phenol structure have been intensively investigated for scavenging of methylglyoxal (MGO) to reduce harmful substances in food. However, less attention has been paid to the formation level of polyphenol-MGO adducts in foods and in vivo and their absorption, metabolism, and health impacts. In this study, hesperitin (HPT) was found to scavenge MGO by forming two adducts, namely, 8-(1-hydroxyacetone)-hesperetin (HPT-mono-MGO) and 6-(1-hydroxyacetone)-8-(1-hydroxyacetone)-hesperetin (HPT-di-MGO). These two adducts were detected (1.6-15.9 mg/kg in total) in cookies incorporated with 0.01%-0.5% HPT. HPT-di-MGO was the main adduct detected in rat plasma after HPT consumption. The adducts were absorbed 8-30 times faster than HPT, and they underwent glucuronidation and sulfation in vivo. HPT-mono-MGO would continue to react with endogenous MGO in vivo to produce HPT-di-MGO, which effectively reduced the cytotoxicity of HPT and HPT-mono-MGO. This study provided data on the safety of employing HPT as a dietary supplement to scavenge MGO in foods.

Erjingwan and Alzheimer's disease: research based on network pharmacology and experimental confirmation

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a challenging neurodegenerative condition, has emerged as a significant global public health concern. The Chinese medicine decoction Erjingwan (EJW) has shown promising efficacy in AD treatment, though its mechanism remains unclear.

Objective

This study aims to elucidate the mechanism by which EJW treats AD through network pharmacology analysis and in vivo experiments.

Methods

We identified EJW's components using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and determined AD-related targets from various databases. A network comprising herbs-compounds-targets was established, and EJW's core targets were ascertained through protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. This study assessed the cognitive abilities of APP/PS1 mice using Morris water mazes and Y mazes, in addition to analyzing blood samples for triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Brain tissues were examined histologically with HE staining, Nissl staining, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for amyloid β-protein (Aβ) detection. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in the hippocampal region were measured by ELISA. mRNA expression of apolipoprotein A-I (APOA-I), apolipoprotein B (APOB), apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), advanced glycation end products (AGE), the receptor for AGE (RAGE), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) was evaluated by quantitative PCR (q-PCR). Western blotting was used to detect the expression of AGE, RAGE, NF-κB, and Tau protein.

Results

Screening identified 57 chemical components and 222 potential targets of EJW. Ten core targets for AD treatment were identified, with enrichment analysis suggesting EJW's effects are related to lipid metabolism and AGEs/RAGE pathways. EJW enhanced learning and memory in APP/PS1 mice, protected neuronal structure in the hippocampal region, reduced Aβ deposition, and altered levels of TG, TC, LDL, IL-1β, and IL-6, and the expression of APOE4, AGEs, RAGE, NF-κB, and Tau protein, while increasing SOD, APOA-I, and APOB mRNA expression.

Conclusion

The study identified four core components of EJW-iosgenin, baicalein, beta-sitosterol, quercetin-and ten core targets including AKT1, IL6, VEGFA, TP53, CASP3, for treating AD. Experimental results demonstrate EJW's capacity to modulate lipid profiles, reduce pathological markers such as Aβ1-42, Tau, IL-6, IL-1β, reactive oxygen species, SOD, and enhance cognitive functions in APP/PS1 mice, potentially through inhibiting the AGEs/RAGE/NF-κB pathway.

Inhibition and Mechanism of Protein Nonenzymatic Glycation by Lactobacillus fermentum

Lactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum) was first evaluated as a potential advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation inhibitor by establishing a bovine serum albumin (BSA) + glucose (glu) glycation model in the present study. The results showed that the highest inhibition rates of pentosidine and total fluorescent AGEs by L. fermentum were approximately 51.67% and 77.22%, respectively, which were higher than that of aminoguanidine (AG). Mechanistic analysis showed that L. fermentum could capture methylglyoxal and glyoxal, inhibit carbonyl and sulfhydryl oxidation, reduce the binding of glucose and amino groups, increase total phenolic content and antioxidant activity, and release intracellular substances to scavenge free radicals; these abilities were the basis of the antiglycation mechanism of L. fermentum. In addition, L. fermentum significantly prevented conformational changes in proteins during glycation, reduced protein cross-linking by 35.67%, and protected the intrinsic fluorophore. Therefore, the inhibition of L. fermentum on glycation mainly occurs through antioxidation, the capture of dicarbonyl compounds, and the protection of the BSA structure. These findings collectively suggest that Lactobacillus is an inhibitor of protein glycation and AGE formation and has the potential for nutraceutical applications.

The effects of advanced glycation end-products on skin and potential anti-glycation strategies

The advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are produced through non-enzymatic glycation between reducing sugars and free amino groups, such as proteins, lipids or nucleic acids. AGEs can enter the body through daily dietary intake and can also be generated internally via normal metabolism and external stimuli. AGEs bind to cell surface receptors for AGEs, triggering oxidative stress and inflammation responses that lead to skin ageing and various diseases. Evidence shows that AGEs contribute to skin dysfunction and ageing. This review introduces the basic information, the sources, the metabolism and absorption of AGEs. We also summarise the detrimental mechanisms of AGEs to skin ageing and other chronic diseases. For the potential strategies for counteracting AGEs to skin and other organs, we summarised the pathways that could be utilised to resist glycation. Chemical and natural-derived anti-glycation approaches are overviewed. This work offers an understanding of AGEs to skin ageing and other chronic diseases and may provide perspectives for the development of anti-glycation strategies.

Salivary and crevicular fluid proinflammatory cytokines and advanced glycation end products in patients with different glycemic levels undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether patients with different blood glycemic levels undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy demonstrate changes in the biochemical profiles of crevicular fluid and salivary advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and proinflammatory cytokine levels in comparison with nondiabetic healthy subjects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prediabetic subjects, subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and subjects without a diabetes mellitus diagnosis undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy with MBT prescription brackets (0.022-inch brackets and 0.019 × 0.025-inch stainless steel archwires) were included in the study. The following clinical periodontal parameters were evaluated: (1) plaque score (PS), (2) probing depth (PD), (3) bleeding on probing (BOP), and (4) clinical attachment loss. Crevicular fluid and saliva specimens were collected during regular orthodontic visits. Salivary and crevicular fluid tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, ghrelin, resistin, AGEs, and receptor activator of nuclear factor κΒ ligand were evaluated using a human magnetic Luminex multiplex assay.

RESULTS

BOP scores were significantly higher among T2DM subjects (19.2%) than among nondiabetic subjects (11.2%) and prediabetic subjects (15.9%). Comparable values were demonstrated by all three study groups regarding PD scores and PSs. T2DM subjects demonstrated higher scores for gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) chemokines than nondiabetic and prediabetic subjects. A statistically significant difference was found in the levels of AGEs and resistin among the three study groups. The scores revealed for the levels of GCF resistin and AGEs versus periodontal BOP demonstrated a significant positive association by the Pearson correlation test.

CONCLUSIONS

T2DM patients demonstrated significantly higher levels of GCF resistin and AGEs during fixed orthodontic therapy. Chronic hyperglycemic patients undergoing orthodontic therapy demonstrated a proinflammatory response.

The Potential Use of Vitamin D3 and Phytochemicals for Their Anti-Ageing Effects

Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D3 is synthesised in skin cells in the body. Vitamin D3 has been known as a bone-related hormone. Recently, however, it has been considered as an immune vitamin. Vitamin D3 deficiency influences the onset of a variety of diseases. Vitamin D3 regulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) through binding to vitamin D receptors (VDRs) in immune cells. Since blood levels of vitamin D3 (25-OH-D3) were low in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, there has been growing interest in the importance of vitamin D3 to maintaining a healthy condition. On the other hand, phytochemicals are compounds derived from plants with over 7000 varieties and have various biological activities. They mainly have health-promoting effects and are classified as terpenoids, carotenoids, flavonoids, etc. Flavonoids are known as the anti-inflammatory compounds that control TNF-α production. Chronic inflammation is induced by the continuous production of TNF-α and is the fundamental cause of diseases like obesity, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, heart and brain diseases, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. In addition, the ageing process is induced by chronic inflammation. This review explains the cooperative effects of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals in the suppression of inflammatory responses, how it balances the natural immune response, and its link to anti-ageing effects. In addition, vitamin D3 and phytochemicals synergistically contribute to anti-ageing by working with ageing-related genes. Furthermore, prevention of ageing processes induced by the chronic inflammation requires the maintenance of healthy gut microbiota, which is related to daily dietary habits. In this regard, supplementation of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals plays an important role. Recently, the association of the prevention of the non-disease condition called "ME-BYO" with the maintenance of a healthy condition has been an attractive regimen, and the anti-ageing effect discussed here is important for a healthy and long life.

Structures of Toxic Advanced Glycation End-Products Derived from Glyceraldehyde, A Sugar Metabolite

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) have recently been implicated in the onset/progression of lifestyle-related diseases (LSRDs); therefore, the suppression of AGE-induced effects may be used in both the prevention and treatment of these diseases. Various AGEs are produced by different biological pathways in the body. Glyceraldehyde (GA) is an intermediate of glucose and fructose metabolism, and GA-derived AGEs (GA-AGEs), cytotoxic compounds that accumulate and induce damage in mammalian cells, contribute to the onset/progression of LSRDs. The following GA-AGE structures have been detected to date: triosidines, GA-derived pyridinium compounds, GA-derived pyrrolopyridinium lysine dimers, methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone 1, and argpyrimidine. GA-AGEs are a key contributor to the formation of toxic AGEs (TAGE) in many cells. The extracellular leakage of TAGE affects the surrounding cells via interactions with the receptor for AGEs. Elevated serum levels of TAGE, which trigger different types of cell damage, may be used as a novel biomarker for the prevention and early diagnosis of LSRDs as well as in evaluations of treatment efficacy. This review provides an overview of the structures of GA-AGEs.

Glyoxal in Foods: Formation, Metabolism, Health Hazards, and Its Control Strategies

Glyoxal is a highly reactive aldehyde widely present in common diet and environment and inevitably generated through various metabolic pathways in vivo. Glyoxal is easily produced in diets high in carbohydrates and fats via the Maillard reaction, carbohydrate autoxidation, and lipid peroxidation, etc. This leads to dietary intake being a major source of exogenous exposure. Exposure to glyoxal has been positively associated with a number of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. It has been demonstrated that polyphenols, probiotics, hydrocolloids, and amino acids can reduce the content of glyoxal in foods via different mechanisms, thus reducing the risk of exogenous exposure to glyoxal and alleviating carbonyl stresses in the human body. This review discussed the formation and metabolism of glyoxal, its health hazards, and the strategies to reduce such health hazards. Future investigation of glyoxal from different perspectives is also discussed.

Association of total and different food-derived advanced glycation end-products with risks of all-cause and cause-specific mortality

Background: advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), formed through a series of non-enzymatic reactions, can promote inflammation and oxidative stress. Their accumulation in the body has been linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. However, the association of total AGEs and AGEs from different food sources with risks of all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality is still unknown. Methods: we conducted a prospective cohort study of a nationally representative sample of 22 124 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III (1988-1994) and NHANES 2003-2006. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was utilized to calculate total and different food-derived AGE intake. Associations between various dietary AGE scores and the risk of all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality were assessed by weighted Cox proportional hazard regression models. Results: over a median follow-up period of 27.1 years, we found that in the general population, AGE scores of both baked foods and meat were risk factors for all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality. Specially, higher AGE scores in total and those derived from 10 of the 13 food groups were statistically associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality. Egg-, fruit-, and vegetable-derived AGE scores were positively correlated with the risk of cancer mortality. Additionally, there were positive multiplicative and additive interactions between smoking and meat-derived AGE scores on all-cause mortality. Conclusions: high amounts of AGE consumption is associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality, and meat and baked food-derived AGEs were positively linked to all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortalities. Adherence to unhealthy lifestyles, such as smoking, may increase mortality from leading causes in individuals with AGE-enriched diet habits.

Ginsenoside Rg1, lights up the way for the potential prevention of Alzheimer's disease due to its therapeutic effects on the drug-controllable risk factors of Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine, Shen Nong, BenCao Jing, and Compendium of Materia Medica (Bencao Gangmu), Panax ginseng, and its prescriptions have been used for the treatment of dementia, depression, weight loss, Xiaoke disease (similar to diabetes), and vertigo. All these diseases are associated with the drug-controllable risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD), including depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Ginsenoside Rg1, one of the main active ingredients of P. ginseng and its congener Panax notoginseng, possesses therapeutic potentials against AD and associated diseases. This suggests that ginsenoside Rg1 might have the potential for AD prevention and treatment. Although the anti-AD effects of ginsenoside Rg1 have received more attention, a systematic review of its effects on depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension is not available.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This systematic literature review comprehensively summarized existing literature on the therapeutic potentials of ginsenoside Rg1 in AD prevention for the propose of providing a foundation of future research aimed at enabling the use of such drugs in clinical practice.

METHODS

Information on ginsenoside Rg1 was collected from relevant published articles identified through a literature search in electronic scientific databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar). The keywords used were "Ginsenoside Rg1," "Panax ginseng," "Source," "Alzheimer's disease," "Brain disorders," "Depression," "Obesity," "Diabetes," and "Hypertension."

RESULTS

The monomer ginsenoside Rg1 can be relatively easily obtained and has therapeutic potentials against AD. In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of ginsenoside Rg1 against the drug-controllable risk factors of AD including depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Thus, ginsenoside Rg1 alleviates diseases resulting from AD risk factors by regulating multiple targets and pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Ginsenoside Rg1 has the potentials to prevent AD by alleviating depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Advanced glycation end products of dietary origin and their association with inflammation in diabetes - A minireview

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a diverse group of compounds that are formed as a result of the non-enzymatic reaction between a reducing sugar such as glucose and the free NH2 groups of an amino acid in a protein or other biomolecule. The chemical reaction, by which these products are generated, is known as the Maillard reaction and occurs as a part of the body's normal metabolism. Such a reaction is enhanced during diabetes due to hyperglycemia, but it can also occur during the preparation, processing, and preservation of certain foods. Therefore, AGEs can also be obtained from the diet (d-AGE) and contribute to an increase of the total serum pool of these compounds. They have been implicated in a wide variety of pathological processes, mainly because of their ability to induce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress increase. They are extensively accumulated as a part of the normal aging, especially in tissues rich in long half-life proteins, which can compromise the physiology of these tissues. d-AGEs are abundant in diets rich in processed fats and sugars. This review is addressed to the current knowledge on these products and their impact on the immunomodulation of various mechanisms that may contribute to exacerbation of the diabetes pathophysiology.

The stromal microenvironment and ovarian aging: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

For decades, most studies of ovarian aging have focused on its functional units, known as follicles, which include oocytes and granulosa cells. However, in the ovarian stroma, there are a variety of somatic components that bridge the gap between general aging and ovarian senescence. Physiologically, general cell types, microvascular structures, extracellular matrix, and intercellular molecules affect folliculogenesis and corpus luteum physiology alongside the ovarian cycle. As a result of damage caused by age-related metabolite accumulation and external insults, the microenvironment of stromal cells is progressively remodeled, thus inevitably perturbing ovarian physiology. With the established platforms for follicle cryopreservation and in vitro maturation and the development of organoid research, it is desirable to develop strategies to improve the microenvironment of the follicle by targeting the perifollicular environment. In this review, we summarize the role of stromal components in ovarian aging, describing their age-related alterations and associated effects. Moreover, we list some potential techniques that may mitigate ovarian aging based on their effect on the stromal microenvironment.

Pathomechanisms of Diabetic Kidney Disease

The worldwide occurrence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is swiftly rising, primarily attributed to the growing population of individuals affected by type 2 diabetes. This surge has been transformed into a substantial global concern, placing additional strain on healthcare systems already grappling with significant demands. The pathogenesis of DKD is intricate, originating with hyperglycemia, which triggers various mechanisms and pathways: metabolic, hemodynamic, inflammatory, and fibrotic which ultimately lead to renal damage. Within each pathway, several mediators contribute to the development of renal structural and functional changes. Some of these mediators, such as inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and transforming growth factor β are shared among the different pathways, leading to significant overlap and interaction between them. While current treatment options for DKD have shown advancement over previous strategies, their effectiveness remains somewhat constrained as patients still experience residual risk of disease progression. Therefore, a comprehensive grasp of the molecular mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of DKD is imperative for the continued creation of novel and groundbreaking therapies for this condition. In this review, we discuss the current achievements in fundamental research, with a particular emphasis on individual factors and recent developments in DKD treatment.

Research Progress in Skin Aging, Metabolism, and Related Products

In recent years, skin aging has received increasing attention. Many factors affect skin aging, and research has shown that metabolism plays a vital role in skin aging, but there needs to be a more systematic review. This article reviews the interaction between skin metabolism and aging from the perspectives of glucose, protein, and lipid metabolism and explores relevant strategies for skin metabolism regulation. We found that skin aging affects the metabolism of three major substances, which are glucose, protein, and lipids, and the metabolism of the three major substances in the skin also affects the process of skin aging. Some drugs or compounds can regulate the metabolic disorders mentioned above to exert anti-aging effects. Currently, there are a variety of products, but most of them focus on improving skin collagen levels. Skin aging is closely related to metabolism, and they interact with each other. Regulating specific metabolic disorders in the skin is an important anti-aging strategy. Research and development have focused on improving collagen levels, while the regulation of other skin glycosylation and lipid disorders including key membrane or cytoskeleton proteins is relatively rare. Further research and development are expected.

Screening, identification and control of unknown estrogen-like compounds in Maillard reaction products of glucose-arginine/lysine model systems

It was speculated that estrogen-like compounds may be produced by chemical reactions during food processing, such as Maillard reaction, which would disrupt the endocrine system of organisms. Herein, the Maillard reaction in the process of high temperature for long time was simulated by using model system, and unknown estrogen-like compounds produced during Maillard reaction were screened by colorimetric assay based on dual estrogen receptor (ER)-gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Possible structures of estrogen-like compounds were inferred by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS) in combination with a mass database, and finally the structure of estrogen-like compound, 2, 4-dihydroxy-1, 4-benzoxazin-3-one-2-o-β-D-glucopyranoside (DIBOA-glc), was identified by high resolution orbitrap mass spectrometry (Orbitrap HRMS). This is the first study of the screening and identification of unknown estrogen-like compounds produced in Maillard reaction. Additionally, strategy of controlling the formation of DIBOA-glc by adding vitamin B6 in Maillard reaction was proposed, providing effective proposals for the safety control in actual food processing.

Advances and Perspectives in Relation to the Molecular Basis of Diabetic Retinopathy-A Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing problem nowadays, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) is its predominant complication. Currently, DR diagnosis primarily relies on fundoscopic examination; however, novel biomarkers may facilitate that process and make it widely available. In this current review, we delve into the intricate roles of various factors and mechanisms in DR development, progression, prediction, and their association with therapeutic approaches linked to the underlying pathogenic pathways. Specifically, we focus on advanced glycation end products, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), asymmetric dimethylarginine, endothelin-1, and the epigenetic regulation mediated by microRNAs (miRNAs) in the context of DR.

Lipid lowering and anti-ageing effects of edible flowers of Viola x wittrockiana Gams in a Caenorhabditis elegans obese model

Life expectancy has increased considerably in the last decades, clearing the way for preventive medicine. The ingestion of healthy foods or ingredients to improve health is gaining attention and edible flowers entail a promising source of bioactive compounds. The aim of this work was to study the anti-ageing and anti-obesity properties of an extract obtained from an edible flower Viola x wittrockiana though in vitro and in vivo methodologies with Caenorhabditis elegans as a model. The capacity to inhibit the enzymes α-glucosidase and lipase as well as to prevent advance glycation end-product (AGE) formation was tested in vitro. Caenorhabditis elegans was used as an obesity in vivo model to assess the effects of the extract on fat accumulation, development, progeny and health span. Viola flowers showed lower IC50 values in the α-glucosidase assay than the reference drug acarbose and exerted a higher inhibition of AGE formation than the reference substance aminoguanidine; the extract also showed pancreatic lipase inhibiting properties. Moreover, the extract lowered fat storage of C. elegans in a dose-dependent manner, up to 90.37% at the highest tested dose, and improved health span biomarkers such as lipofuscin accumulation and progeny availability. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, the anti-obesogenic and anti-ageing activity of Viola x wittrockiana flowers and their potential use as functional foods and nutraceuticals.

The bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and diabetes: New prospects for stem cell-derived exosomes

Periodontitis and diabetes have a bidirectional link, making therapeutic treatment of periodontitis and diabetes challenging. Numerous factors, including microbes, inflammatory cytokines, immune cell activity, glucose levels, and metabolic disorders, contribute to the bidirectional relationship of periodontitis and diabetes. Basic periodontal treatment, medication, surgical treatment, and combined treatment are the most widely used treatments, but their efficacy are limited. Because of their capacity to support bone remodeling and tissue regeneration and restoration, reduce blood glucose levels, restore islet function, and ameliorate local and systemic inflammation, stem cell-derived exosomes have emerged as a possible therapeutic. In this review, we summarize the utilization of stem cell-derived exosomes in periodontitis and diabetes，discuss their potential mechanisms in periodontitis and diabetes bidirectional promoters. It provides some theoretical basis for using stem cell-derived exosomes to regulate the bidirectional link between periodontitis and diabetes.

Discovery of novel glucosinolates inhibiting advanced glycation end products: Virtual screening and molecular dynamic simulation

Protein glycation can result in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which pose a potential health risk due to their association with diabetic complications. Natural products are a source of drugs discovery and the search for potential natural inhibitors of AGEs is of great significance. Glucosinolates (GSLs) mainly from cruciferous plants have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-glycation activities. In this study, the inhibitory activity of GSLs on bovine serum albumin (BSA) along with its mechanism was investigated by virtual screening and various computational simulation techniques. Virtual screening revealed that 174 GSLs were screened using Maestro based on the glide score and 89% of the compounds were found to have potential anti-glycation ability with the docking scores less than -5 kcal/mol. Molecular docking showed that the top 10 GSLs were bound to the IIA structural domain of BSA. Among them, glucohesperin (1) and 2-hydroxyethyl glucosinolate (2) had the lowest docking scores of -9.428 and -9.333 kcal/mol, respectively, reflecting their good binding affinity. Molecular dynamics simulations of 1 (ΔG = -43.46 kcal/mol) and 2 (ΔG = -43.71 kcal/mol) revealed that the complexes of these two compounds with proteins had good stability. Further binding site analysis suggested that the mechanism of inhibition of protein glycation by these two active ingredients might be through competitive hydrogen bonding to maintain the structural integrity of the protein, thus inhibiting glycation reaction. Moreover, the ADMET values and CYP450 metabolism prediction data were within the recommended values. Therefore, it can be concluded that 1 and 2 may act as potential anti-glycation agents.

Targeting inflammasome pathway by polyphenols as a strategy for pancreatitis, gastrointestinal and liver diseases management: an updated review

Obesity, pancreatitis, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal (GI), and liver diseases have all been linked to the Western lifestyle, characterized by increased unhealthy food consumption and decreased physical activity. Besides obesity and pancreatitis, many GI and liver diseases are associated with inflammation. Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that mediate acute and restorative inflammatory pathways. However, many aberrations in inflammasome activity originate from shifts in dietary habits. Evidence reveals that dietary polyphenols effectively modulate inflammasome-associated dysfunctions. With a focus on pancreatitis, GI, and liver disorders, this review set out to provide the most relevant evidence for the therapeutic impact of polyphenols via the regulation of the inflammasome pathway. Overall, flavonoid and non-flavonoid polyphenols maintain intestinal eubiosis, downregulate NLRP3 inflammasome canonical pathway, and restore redox status via upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. These effects at the level of the intestine, the liver, and the pancreas are associated with decreased systemic levels of key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.

Investigating Bioaccessibility of Advanced Glycation Product Precursors in Gluten-Free Foods Using In Vitro Gastrointestinal System

Background and Objectives: Gluten-free products have been produced as part of medical therapy and have gained popularity among individuals seeking weight loss or healthier dietary options. Assessing the potential risks associated with these products is essential in optimizing their compositions and developing new dietetic approaches. This study aimed to determine the glyoxal (GO) and methylglyoxal (MGO) contents in gluten-free bread, biscuits, and cookies and to examine their bioaccessibility using an in vitro gastrointestinal model. Materials and Methods: A total of 26 gluten-free and 19 gluten-containing (control) products were analyzed for their GO and MGO levels utilizing a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) device. Results: Post-digestion, the GO and MGO values increased significantly across all food groups compared with pre-digestion values (p < 0.05), and the bioaccessibility exceeded 100%. Specifically, gluten-free bread exhibited higher post-digestion GO and MGO values than the control group (p < 0.05). Conversely, gluten-containing biscuits and cookies had higher post-digestion GO and MGO values compared to gluten-free products (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The detection of precursors to advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in gluten-free products has drawn attention to the potential health risks associated with their consumption. Therefore, reevaluation of the formulations and technologies used in these products and the introduction of new strategies are crucial in mitigating AGE content.

Dietary advanced glycation end products (dAGEs): An insight between modern diet and health

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed by a series of chemical reactions of amino acids, peptides, proteins, and ketones at normal temperature or heated non-enzymatic conditions. A large amount of AGEs derived from Maillard Reaction (MR) during the process of food heat-processing. After oral intake, dietary AGEs are converted into biological AGEs through digestion and absorption, and accumulated in almost all organs. The safety and health risk of dietary AGEs have attracted wide attention. Increasing evidence have shown that uptake of dietary AGEs is closely related to the occurrence of many chronic diseases, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease. This review summarized the most updated information of production, bio-transport in vivo, detection technologies, and physiological toxicity of dietary AGEs, and also discussed approaches to inhibit dietary AGEs generation. Impressively, the future opportunities and challenges on the detection, toxicity, and inhibition of dietary AGEs are raised.

Associations between eating speed and food temperature and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between eating speed and food temperature and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the Chinese population.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between December 2020 to March 2022 from the department of Endocrinology at the Shandong Provincial Hospital. All recruited participants were asked to complete structured questionnaires on their eating behaviors at the time of recruitment. Clinical demographic data such as gender, age, height, weight, familial history of T2DM, prevalence of T2DM and various eating behaviors were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the associations between eating behaviors and T2DM.

RESULTS

A total of 1,040 Chinese adults were included in the study, including 344 people with T2DM and 696 people without T2DM. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the general population showed that gender (OR = 2.255, 95% CI: 1.559-3.260, p < 0.001), age (OR = 1.091, 95% CI: 1.075-1.107, p < 0.001), BMI (OR = 1.238, 95% CI: 1.034-1.483, p = 0.020), familial history of T2DM (OR = 5.709, 95% CI: 3.963-8.224, p < 0.001), consumption of hot food (OR = 4.132, 95% CI: 2.899-5.888, p < 0.001), consumption of snacks (OR = 1.745, 95% CI: 1.222-2.492, p = 0.002), and eating speed (OR = 1.292, 95% CI:1.048-1.591, p = 0.016) were risk factors for T2DM.

CONCLUSION

In addition to traditional risk factors such as gender, age, BMI, familial history of T2DM, eating behaviors associated with Chinese culture, including consumption of hot food, consumption of snacks, and fast eating have shown to be probable risk factors for T2DM.

Advanced glycation end product signaling and metabolic complications: Dietary approach

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a heterogeneous collection of compounds formed during industrial processing and home cooking through a sequence of nonenzymatic glycation reactions. The modern western diet is full of heat-treated foods that contribute to AGE intake. Foods high in AGEs in the contemporary diet include processed cereal products. Due to industrialization and marketing strategies, restaurant meals are modified rather than being traditionally or conventionally cooked. Fried, grilled, baked, and boiled foods have the greatest AGE levels. Higher AGE-content foods include dry nuts, roasted walnuts, sunflower seeds, fried chicken, bacon, and beef. Animal proteins and processed plant foods contain furosine, acrylamide, heterocyclic amines, and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. Furosine (2-furoil-methyl-lysine) is an amino acid found in cooked meat products and other processed foods. High concentrations of carboxymethyl-lysine, carboxyethyl-lysine, and methylglyoxal-O are found in heat-treated nonvegetarian foods, peanut butter, and cereal items. Increased plasma levels of AGEs, which are harmful chemicals that lead to age-related diseases and physiological aging, diabetes, and autoimmune/inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. AGEs in the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases have been linked to individuals with diabetes mellitus who have peripheral nerves with high amounts of AGEs and diabetes has been linked to increased myelin glycation. Insulin resistance and hyperglycemia can impact numerous human tissues and organs, leading to long-term difficulties in a number of systems and organs, including the cardiovascular system. Plasma AGE levels are linked to all-cause mortality in individuals with diabetes who have fatal or nonfatal coronary artery disease, such as ventricular dysfunction. High levels of tissue AGEs are independently associated with cardiac systolic dysfunction in diabetic patients with heart failure compared with diabetic patients without heart failure. It is widely recognized that AGEs and oxidative stress play a key role in the cardiovascular complications of diabetes because they both influence and are impacted by oxidative stress. All chronic illnesses involve protein, lipid, or nucleic acid modifications including crosslinked and nondegradable aggregates known as AGEs. Endogenous AGE formation or dietary AGE uptake can result in additional protein modifications and stimulation of several inflammatory signaling pathways. Many of these systems, however, require additional explanation because they are not entirely obvious. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding dietary sources of AGEs and metabolism-related complications associated with AGEs.

SIRT3-and FAK-mediated acetylation-phosphorylation crosstalk of NFATc1 regulates Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine-induced vascular calcification in diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Arterial calcification is the predictor of cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients. N^ε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML), a toxic metabolite, is associated with accelerated vascular calcification in diabetes mellitus (DM). However, the mechanism remains elusive. This study aims to explore the key regulators involved in CML-induced vascular calcification in DM.

METHODS

We used Western blot and immuno-staining to test the expression and localization of nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) in human samples, a diabetic apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE^-/-) mouse model, and a vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) model. Further, we confirmed the regulator of NFATc1 phosphorylation and acetylation induced by CML. The role of NFATc1 in VSMCs calcification and osteogenic differentiation was explored in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

In diabetic patients, CML and NFATc1 levels increased in the severe calcified anterior tibial arteries. CML significantly promoted NFATc1 expression and nuclear translocation in VSMCs and mouse aorta. Knockdown of NFATc1 significantly inhibited CML-induced calcification. CML promoted NFATc1 acetylation at K549 by downregulating sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), which antagonized the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) induced NFATc1 phosphorylation at the Y270 site. FAK and SIRT3 affected the nuclear translocation of NFATc1 by regulating the acetylation-phosphorylation crosstalk. NFATc1 dephosphorylation mutant Y270F and deacetylation mutant K549R had opposite effects on VSMC calcification. SIRT3 overexpression and FAK inhibitor could reverse CML-promoted VSMC calcification.

CONCLUSIONS

CML enhances vascular calcification in DM through NFATc1. In this process, CML increases NFATc1 acetylation by downregulating SIRT3 to antagonize FAK-induced NFATc1 phosphorylation.

A Role for Advanced Glycation End Products in Molecular Ageing

Ageing is a composite process that involves numerous changes at the cellular, tissue, organ and whole-body levels. These changes result in decreased functioning of the organism and the development of certain conditions, which ultimately lead to an increased risk of death. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a family of compounds with a diverse chemical nature. They are the products of non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, lipids or nucleic acids and are synthesised in high amounts in both physiological and pathological conditions. Accumulation of these molecules increases the level of damage to tissue/organs structures (immune elements, connective tissue, brain, pancreatic beta cells, nephrons, and muscles), which consequently triggers the development of age-related diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular and kidney disorders. Irrespective of the role of AGEs in the initiation or progression of chronic disorders, a reduction in their levels would certainly provide health benefits. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of AGEs in these areas. Moreover, we provide examples of lifestyle interventions, such as caloric restriction or physical activities, that may modulate AGE formation and accumulation and help to promote healthy ageing.

Enzymatic Deglycation of Damaged Skin by Means of Combined Treatment of Fructosamine-3-Kinase and Fructosyl-Amino Acid Oxidase

The consensus in aging is that inflammation, cellular senescence, free radicals, and epigenetics are contributing factors. Skin glycation through advanced glycation end products (AGEs) has a crucial role in aging. Additionally, it has been suggested that their presence in scars leads to elasticity loss. This manuscript reports fructosamine-3-kinase (FN3K) and fructosyl-amino acid oxidase (FAOD) in counteracting skin glycation by AGEs. Skin specimens were obtained (n = 19) and incubated with glycolaldehyde (GA) for AGE induction. FN3K and FAOD were used as monotherapy or combination therapy. Negative and positive controls were treated with phosphate-buffered saline and aminoguanidine, respectively. Autofluorescence (AF) was used to measure deglycation. An excised hypertrophic scar tissue (HTS) (n = 1) was treated. Changes in chemical bonds and elasticity were evaluated using mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR) and skin elongation, respectively. Specimens treated with FN3K and FAOD in monotherapy achieved an average decrease of 31% and 33% in AF values, respectively. When treatments were combined, a decrease of 43% was achieved. The positive control decreased by 28%, whilst the negative control showed no difference. Elongation testing of HTS showed a significant elasticity improvement after FN3K treatment. ATR-IR spectra demonstrated differences in chemical bounds pre- versus post-treatment. FN3K and FAOD can achieve deglycation and the effects are most optimal when combined in one treatment.

Assessment of the dual role of Lyonia ovalifolia (Wall.) Drude in inhibiting AGEs and enhancing GLUT4 translocation through LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS determination and in silico studies

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that results in glucose accumulation in the blood, accompanied by the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) through glycation of cellular proteins. These AGEs interfere with insulin signaling and prevent GLUT4 membrane translocation, thereby promoting the accumulation of more glucose in the blood and causing post-diabetic complications.

Methods: In this study, we examine the anti-diabetic potential of Lyonia ovalifolia (Wall.) Drude, a well-known ethnomedicinal plant of the Indian Himalayas. Considering its various medicinal properties, we analyzed its ethanolic extract and various solvent fractions for in vitro antiglycation activity and antidiabetic potential, i.e., stimulation of GLUT4 translocation.

Result and Discussions: The results showed that the extract and fractions exhibited increased antiglycation activity and an increased level of GLUT4 translocation. Analysis of a further 12 bioactive compounds of ethanolic extract, identified through LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS, revealed the presence of three new compounds: leucothol B, rhodoterpenoids A, and leucothol A. Moreover, we performed molecular docking of identified compounds against key proteins of diabetes mellitus: the sirtuin family of NAD (+)-dependent protein deacetylases 6 (SIRT6), aldose reductase (AR), and tyrosine kinase (TK). The results showed that flavonoid luteolin showed the best binding affinity ((−12.3 kcal/mol), followed by eriodictyol, astilbin, and syringaresinol. An ADMET study showed that luteolin, eriodictyol, astilbin, and syringaresinol may be promising drug candidates belonging to the flavonoid class of compounds, with no harmful effects and complying with all the drug-likeness guidelines. Furthermore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on a 50 ns timescale revealed that AR protein was most stable with luteolin throughout the simulation period. Therefore, this study reveals for the first time that L. ovalifolia plays an important role in insulin homeostasis, as shown in in vitro and in silico studies.

Evaluation of Morphological and Structural Skin Alterations on Diabetic Subjects by Biophysical and Imaging Techniques

Diabetes causes increased production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which may lead to irreversible damage to collagen fibers, and early and more accentuated signs of skin aging. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate diabetic skin's mechanical and morphological characteristics and compare these to healthy skin. Twenty-eight female participants aged between 39 and 55 years were enrolled: half had type 2 diabetes, and the others were healthy. Wrinkles, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum water content, skin color, elasticity, morphological and structural characteristics of epidermis and dermis echogenicity were evaluated using biophysical and skin imaging techniques. Higher TEWL values were observed in participants with diabetes, who also showed lower skin elasticity and wrinkles with greater volume, area, and depth. In addition, the Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM) imaging analysis showed that all participants with diabetes presented polycyclic papillae and deformed and amorphous collagen fibers. The obtained data showed significant differences between healthy and diabetic skin and could help develop more specific topical treatments to improve the treatment of skin conditions in people with diabetes. Finally, RCM is an advanced imaging technique that allows for a more profound analysis of diabetic skin, which could assist in the evaluation of dermocosmetic treatments to improve the skin alterations caused by this disease.

Effect of Enriching Gingerbread Cookies with Elder (Sambucus nigra L.) Products on Their Phenolic Composition, Antioxidant and Anti-Glycation Properties, and Sensory Acceptance

Elder products are still underutilized sources of phytochemicals, mainly polyphenols, with extensive pharmacological effects on the human body. In this study, gingerbread cookies covered in chocolate (GC) were enriched with elderflower dry extract (EF) and juice concentrate (EB). The cookies (GC, GCEF, and GCEFEB) and the additives (EF and EB) were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), phenolic compound profile, antioxidant capacity (AC), and advanced glycation end products' (AGEs) formation in both the free and bound phenolic fractions. Sensory analysis of the cookies was performed using an effective acceptance test (9-point hedonic scale), and purchase intent was evaluated using a 5-point scale. It was found that the flavonoid content was significantly increased (20-60%) when EF and EB were added to the cookies. Moreover, the EF addition to chocolate-covered GCs enhanced the content of phenolic acids (up to 28%) in the bound phenolic fraction. An increase in the AC values of enriched cookies was found, and the free phenolic fraction differed significantly in this regard. However, inhibition of AGEs by elder products was only observed in the bound phenolic fraction. In addition, EF and EB improved the overall acceptance of the cookies, mostly their taste and texture. Thus, elder products appear to be valuable additives to gingerbread cookies, providing good sensory quality and functional food characteristics.

The Role of Advanced Glycation End Products on Dyslipidemia

Disorders of lipoprotein metabolism and glucose homeostasis are common consequences of insulin resistance and usually co-segregate in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Insulin-resistant subjects are characterized by atherogenic dyslipidemia, a specific lipid pattern which includes hypertriglyceridemia, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, and increased proportion of small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Chronic hyperglycemia favors the processes of non-enzymatic glycation, leading to the increased production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Apart from direct harmful effects, AGEs are also potent inducers of oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, increased AGEs' production may induce further qualitative modifications of small, dense LDL particles, converting them to glycated LDLs. These particles are even more atherogenic and may confer an increased cardiovascular risk. In this narrative review, we summarize the available evidence of the pathophysiological role and clinical importance of circulating AGEs and glycated LDLs in patients with dyslipidemia, particularly those with DM and related complications. In addition, we discuss recent advances and the issues that should be improved regarding laboratory assessment of AGEs and glycated LDLs, as well as the possibilities for their therapeutic modulation.

Roles of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-age women, affecting up to 15% of women in this group, and the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. Although its etiology remains unclear, recent research has revealed the critical role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the pathophysiology of PCOS. ER stress is defined as a condition in which unfolded or misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER because of an imbalance in the demand for protein folding and the protein-folding capacity of the ER. ER stress results in the activation of several signal transduction cascades, collectively termed the unfolded protein response (UPR), which regulates various cellular activities. In principle, the UPR restores homeostasis and keeps the cell alive. However, if the ER stress cannot be resolved, it induces programmed cell death. ER stress has recently been recognized to play diverse roles in both physiological and pathological conditions of the ovary. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the roles of ER stress in the pathogenesis of PCOS. ER stress pathways are activated in the ovaries of both a mouse model of PCOS and in humans, and local hyperandrogenism in the follicular microenvironment associated with PCOS is responsible for activating these. The activation of ER stress contributes to the pathophysiology of PCOS through multiple effects in granulosa cells. Finally, we discuss the potential for ER stress to serve as a novel therapeutic target for PCOS.

Genetically Modified Circulating Levels of Advanced Glycation End-Products and Their Soluble Receptor (AGEs-RAGE Axis) with Risk and Mortality of Breast Cancer

The interaction of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) with their receptor (RAGE) elicits oxidative stress and inflammation, which is involved in the development of breast cancer. However, large-scale population-based evidence exploring genetically modified circulating levels of AGEs-RAGE axis with risk and mortality of breast cancer is scarce. We recruited 1051 pairs of age-matched breast cancers and controls and measured plasma AGEs and sRAGE concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard model were used to calculate the effects of plasma levels and genetic variants of the AGEs-RAGE axis and their combined effects on breast cancer risk and prognosis, respectively. Furthermore, linear regression was performed to assess the modifications in plasma AGEs/sRAGE levels by genetic predisposition. Higher levels of AGEs and AGEs/sRAGE-ratio were associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, but sRAGE levels were negatively associated with breast cancer risk, especially in women <60 years. We also observed a positive association between AGEs and the bad prognosis of breast cancer. Although we did not observe a significant contribution of genetic variants to breast cancer risk, rs2070600 and rs1800624 in the AGER gene were dose-dependently correlated with sRAGE levels. Further, compared to the haplotype CT at the lowest quartile of AGEs, haplotypes TT and TA were prominently associated with breast cancer risk in the highest quartile of AGEs. This study depicted a significant association between circulating levels of AGEs-RAGE axis and breast cancer risk and mortality and revealed the potential of plasma AGEs, especially coupled with AGER polymorphism as biomarkers of breast cancer.

Effect of Baking Temperature and Time on Advanced Glycation End Products and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Beef

ABSTRACT

Beef is an important red meat that contains essential nutrients for human growth and development. Baking is a popular beef cooking method. Temperature and time play key roles in the final quality of beef. How temperature and time affect the changes of nutrients and the formation of harmful products in beef is not clear. The purpose of this study was to measure the content of water, fat, protein, ash, nitrite, total volatile base nitrogen, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their precursors, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) at different temperatures (150, 190, 230, 270, and 310°C) for 20 min and at 190°C for different times (10, 20, and 30 min), so as to discuss the effect of different temperatures and times on beef nutrients and harmful products. The results showed that the moisture content of beef decreased with increased baking temperature and time, resulting in the increase of the relative content of fat, protein, and ash. The content of total volatile base nitrogen increased continuously. Compared with the control group, the content of glyoxal in beef decreased, whereas the content of methylglyoxal, pentosidine, and fluorescent AGEs increased, indicating the continuous accumulation of AGEs in beef. A total of 13 PAHs were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The concentrations of 13 PAHs in beef increased with increases in baking temperature and time. The concentrations of BkP and BaP, which are the most carcinogenic to humans, were 0.36 and 0.35 μg/kg in raw meat, respectively; these were increased by high temperature and long baking times. After beef was baked at 270 and 310°C for 20 min, the concentration of BkP increased to 9.49 and 5.66 μg/kg, respectively, and the concentration of BaP increased to 5.45 and 4.42 μg/kg, respectively. After baking at 190°C for 30 and 40 min, the concentration of BkP increased to 4.81 and 24.20 μg/kg, respectively, and the concentration of BaP increased to 3.85 and 17.79 μg/kg, respectively.

HIGHLIGHTS

Modulation of the Inflammatory Response in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)-Searching for Epigenetic Factors

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Despite its incidence, the syndrome is poorly understood and remains underdiagnosed, and female patients are diagnosed with a delay. The heterogenous nature of this complex disorder results from the combined occurrence of genetic, environmental, endocrine, and behavioral factors. Primary clinical manifestations of PCOS are derived from the excess of androgens (anovulation, polycystic ovary morphology, lack of or scanty, irregular menstrual periods, acne and hirsutism), whereas the secondary manifestations include multiple metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychological disorders. Dietary and lifestyle factors play important roles in the development and course of PCOS, which suggests strong epigenetic and environmental influences. Many studies have shown a strong association between PCOS and chronic, low-grade inflammation both in the ovarian tissue and throughout the body. In the vast majority of PCOS patients, elevated values of inflammatory markers or their gene markers have been reported. Development of the vicious cycle of the chronic inflammatory state in PCOS is additionally stimulated by hyperinsulinemia and obesity. Changes in DNA methylation, histone acetylation and noncoding RNA levels are presented in this review in the context of oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, and inflammatory signaling in PCOS. Epigenetic modulation of androgenic activity in response to inflammatory signaling is also discussed.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Natural Product 'C-Phycocyanin' in Alleviating Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes via the Inhibition of Glycation Reaction in Rats

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder characterized by persistently elevated blood sugar levels. Chronic hyperglycemia enhances glucose-protein interactions, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which form irreversible cross-links with a wide variety of macromolecules, and accumulate rapidly in the body tissues. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic properties of C-phycocyanin (C-PC) obtained from Plectonema species against oxidative stress, glycation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rat. Forty-five days of C-PC administration decreased levels of triglycerides (TGs), blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), liver and kidney function indices, and raised body weight in diabetic rats. C-PC suppressed biochemical glycation markers, as well as serum carboxymethyllysine (CML) and fluorescent AGEs. Additionally, C-PC maintained the redox state by lowering lipid peroxidation and protein-bound carbonyl content (CC), enhancing the activity of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and renal antioxidant enzymes, and preserving retinal and renal histopathological characteristics. Thus, we infer that C-PC possesses antidiabetic and antiglycation effects in diabetic rats. C-PC may also act as an antidiabetic and antiglycation agent in vivo that may reduce the risk of secondary diabetic complications.

Receptor of advanced glycation end-products axis and gallbladder cancer: A forgotten connection that we should reconsider

Compelling evidence derived from clinical and experimental research has demonstrated the crucial contribution of chronic inflammation in the development of neoplasms, including gallbladder cancer. In this regard, data derived from clinical and experimental studies have demonstrated that the receptor of advanced glycation end-products (RAGE)/AGEs axis plays an important role in the onset of a crucial and long-lasting inflammatory milieu, thus supporting tumor growth and development. AGEs are formed in biological systems or foods, and food-derived AGEs, also known as dietary AGEs are known to contribute to the systemic pool of AGEs. Once they bind to RAGE, the activation of multiple and crucial signaling pathways are triggered, thus favoring the secretion of several proinflammatory cytokines also involved in the promotion of gallbladder cancer invasion and migration. In the present review, we aimed to highlight the relevance of the association between high dietary AGEs intakes and high risk for gallbladder cancer, and emerging data supporting that dietary intervention to reduce gallbladder cancer risk is a very attractive approach that deserves much more research efforts.

Antiglycation Effects of Adlay Seed and Its Active Polyphenol Compounds: An In Vitro Study

This study aimed to evaluate the antiglycation effects of adlay on protein glycation using in vitro glycation assays. Adlay seed was divided into the following four parts: the hull (AH), testa (AT), bran (AB), and polished adlay (PA). A solvent extraction technique and column chromatography were utilized to investigate the active fractions and components of adlay. Based on a BSA-glucose assay, the ethanolic extracts of AT (ATE) and AB (ABE) revealed a greater capacity to inhibit protein glycation. ATE was further consecutively partitioned into four solvent fractions with n-hexane, ethyl acetate (ATE-Ea), 1-butanol (ATE-BuOH), and water. ATE-BuOH and -Ea show marked inhibition of glucose-mediated glycation. Medium–high polarity subfractions eluted from ATE-BuOH below 50% methanol with Diaion HP-20, ATE-BuOH-c to -f, exhibited superior antiglycation activity, with a maximum inhibitory percentage of 88%. Two phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid, identified in ATE-BuOH with HPLC, exhibited potent inhibition of the individual stage of protein glycation and its subsequent crosslinking, as evaluated by the BSA-glucose assay, BS-methylglyoxal (MGO) assay, and G.K. peptide-ribose assay. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the antiglycation properties of ATE in vitro that suggest a beneficial effect in targeting hyperglycemia-mediated protein modification.