Anti-diabetic effect of balanced deep-sea water and its mode of action in high-fat diet induced diabetic mice

Magnesium from Deep Seawater as a Potentially Effective Natural Product against Insulin Resistance: A Randomized Trial

Background and Objectives: Deep seawater has been shown to restore pancreatic function in obese diabetic mice and considerably improve the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in patients with impaired fasting glucose or glucose tolerance. In this study, the effect of 12-week daily consumption of magnesium (Mg2+)-containing deep seawater mineral extracts on blood glucose concentration and insulin metabolism-associated indicators was investigated in patients with impaired glucose tolerance. Materials and methods: In this 12-week randomized, double-blind trial, patients (n = 37) with impaired glucose tolerance consumed deep seawater mineral extracts. Changes in blood glucose concentration and related indicators were compared between the treatment group and placebo group (n = 38). Results: The fasting insulin, C-peptide, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, quantitative insulin sensitivity check index, homeostatic model assessment of beta-cell function, and Stumvoll insulin sensitivity index values in the deep seawater mineral extract group showed improvements compared with the placebo group. However, no significant differences between groups were observed in fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, or incremental area under the curve values. Conclusions: Oral supplementation with deep seawater mineral extracts enriched in Mg2+ markedly improves insulin sensitivity in patients with pre-diabetes. This study illustrates the potential clinical application of natural Mg2+ from deep seawater to alleviate insulin resistance in patients with pre-diabetes. Trial registration: This trial was retrospectively registered with Clinical Research information Service (CRIS), No. KCT0008695, on 8 August 2023.

Dietary Consumption on Glycemic Control Among Prediabetes: A Review of the Literature

Introduction

Prediabetes is a condition that, if left unaddressed, can lead to various complications, such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. Among the critical factors contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, dietary choices stand out as particularly significant.

Objective

Consequently, our objective is to examine the latest research findings concerning dietary consumption and its impact on glycemic control in individuals with prediabetes.

Methods

A literature review of randomized controlled trials was performed using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect with searches conducted from January 2019 to 2023. The primary reviewer assessed the quality of the selected studies for bias risk using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal method for randomized controlled trials. Initially, 975 articles were identified through the search, but after applying the inclusion criteria, only 9 articles were ultimately selected.

Results

The review found that a carrageenan-free diet, yogurt with Lactobacillus plantarum OLL2712, Allium hookeri extract (AHE), and delta-tocotrienol improve HbA1C levels. However, salmon, zinc supplement, and balanced deep-sea water were not effective on HbA1C. In addition, studies on the effectiveness of vitamin D in controlling blood glucose levels are inconsistent.

Conclusion

Nurses can enhance patient outcomes through collaborative efforts to create individualized dietary strategies. These strategies may encompass the adoption of a carrageenan-free diet, the inclusion of L plantarum OLL2712-enriched yogurt, the utilization of AHE, and the integration of delta-tocotrienol into the dietary plan. This approach is particularly applicable to ambulatory care nurses, health supervisors, and primary care providers.

Deep Sea Water Inhibited Pancreatic β-Cell Apoptosis and Regulated Glucose Homeostasis by Affecting Lipid Metabolism in Db/Db Mice

PURPOSE

Deep sea water (DSW) is a natural resource rich in minerals, which participates in biological processes such as energy metabolism, regulates serum glucose and lipids levels, and has a certain protective effect on endocrine and metabolism-related diseases. Studies have shown that the improvement of glucose tolerance in diabetic mice by DSW may be associated with the protective effect on the structure and function of pancreatic islets, and the specific mechanism is still unclear. Other studies have shown that long-term exposure to high concentrations of fatty acids can lead to apoptosis and dysfunction of pancreatic β-cell, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Down-regulation of plasma fatty acid levels may reduce pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, thereby improving glucose homeostasis. Understanding the specific mechanism of DSW regulating blood glucose is of great significance for its clinical application.

METHODS

In the present study we used db/db mice as a T2DM model and treated mice with deep ocean mineral concentration (DOMC, a commercial product of DSW) for 4 and 12 weeks. Basic information, serum biochemical indicators, and pathological tissues were gathered for exploration.

RESULTS

The db/db mice treated with 4 weeks' DOMC (db/db+DOMC) showed decreased plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Tests implied that in adipose tissues, the db/db+DOMC group's lipolysis process was inhibited, and the β-fatty acid oxidation process was promoted. Besides, DOMC reduced lipogenesis and encouraged β-oxidation in the liver, as a result, improved fatty liver in db/db mice. Further measurements showed DOMC improved glucose homeostasis slightly in db/db animals after a 12-week treatment by preventing pancreatic β-cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

DOMC inhibited pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and regulated glucose homeostasis in db/db mice by lowering the lipid levels via regulation of fatty acid β-oxidation, lipolysis, and lipogenesis processes.

Deep Sea Water Alleviates Tau Phosphorylation and Cognitive Impairment via PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β Pathway

Deep sea water (DSW), as a noticeable natural resource, has been demonstrated to contain high levels of beneficial minerals and exert marked anti-diabetes effects. Epidemiological studies show that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is closely related to high danger of Alzheimer's disease (AD); moreover, Akt/GSK-3β signaling is the main underlying pathway that connects these two diseases. Besides, it has been demonstrated that minerals in DSW, such as Mg, Se, and Zn, could effectively treat cognitive deficits associated with AD. Herein, we first observed the protection of DSW against cognitive dysfunction in T2DM rats, then furtherly explored the neuroprotective mechanism in SH-SY5Y cell model. In T2DM rats, DSW obviously elevated the concentrations of elements Mg, V, Cr, Zn, and Se in brain and improved learning and memory dysfunction in behavior assays, including Morris water maze (MWM) and new object recognition (NOR). Western blot (WB) results demonstrated that DSW could stimulate PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling, arrest Tau hyperphosphorylation at serine (Ser) 396 and threonine (Thr)231, which was confirmed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In order to further confirm the mechanism, we employed wortmannin to inhibit PI3K in SH-SY5Y cells; results showed that pretreatment with wortmannin almost abolished DSW-induced decreases in phosphorylated Tau. Taken together, these data elucidated that DSW could improve Tau hyperphosphorylation and cognitive impairment, which were closely related with the stimulation of Akt/GSK-3β signaling, and the neuroprotective effects of DSW should be contributed to the synergistic effects of major and trace elements in it, such as Mg, V, Cr, Zn, and Se. These experimental evidence indicated that DSW may be explored as natural neuroprotective food for the prevention and treatment of AD.

Deep Sea Water-Dissolved Organic Matter Intake Improves Hyperlipidemia and Inhibits Thrombus Formation and Vascular Inflammation in High-Fat Diet Hamsters

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease caused by oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid deposition within liver cells, and is subsequently contributing to cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Deep sea water (DSW) is characterized by its clearance and abundant nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity to confer therapeutic potential. We aimed to explore the therapeutic capability of our prepared multi-filtration DSW-dissolved organic matter (DSW-DOM) on high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia and endothelial dysfunction in hamsters. A high-fat/high-cholesterol diet led to increased oxidative stress, including blood reactive oxygen species (ROS), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and hepatic CYP2E1 expression; an increased hyperlipidemic profile and SREBP 1-mediated fatty liver; promoted NFκB p65-mediated hepatic inflammation; triggered PARP-mediated hepatic apoptosis; and enhanced endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and von Willebrand factor (VWF)-mediated atherosclerosis associated with the depressed hepatic antioxidant Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) expression. The DSW-DOM-enriched 1295 fraction, with strong H2O2 scavenging activity, efficiently reduced several oxidative stress parameters, the lipid profile, inflammation, and apoptosis, possibly through the PON1-mediated antioxidant capability. Furthermore, DSW-DOM treatment significantly decreased the endothelial ICAM-1 and VWF expression, subsequently leading to the elongation of time to occlusion of FeCl3-induced arterial thrombosis and to the inhibition of FeCl3-induced fluorescent platelet adhesion to mesentery arterioles in the high-fat diet. Based on the above results, our data suggest that DSW-DOM intake via antioxidant defense mechanisms confers protective effects against high-fat diet-enhanced, oxidative stress-mediated hyperlipidemia, and endothelial dysfunction evoked atherosclerosis by downregulating oxidative injury, lipogenesis, inflammation and apoptosis.

Mineral-rich Jeju lava sea water suppresses lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and ameliorates high-fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6 J mice

This research aimed to evaluate the potential inhibitory effect of mineral-rich Jeju lava sea water (JLSW) on lipid accumulation. This study optimized the calcium (Ca): magnesium (Mg) ratio (5:1, 2.5:1, 1:1) of JLSW and evaluated the effect on lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells using Oil Red O staining. JLSW with a high Ca:Mg ratio (5:1) suppressed lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Based on these in-vitro results, the effects of JLSW on lipid accumulation were investigated in C57BL/6 J mice fed high-fat diets for 14 weeks. Epididymal adipose tissue weight was significantly decreased in mice that received JLSW with a hardness of 800 or 100 mg/L compared to HFD. Adipocyte size was significantly reduced in mice treated with JLSW with a hardness of 20 mg/L in comparison with HFD. Thus, long-term intake of JLSW may be expected to have anti-obesity effects due to the reduction of lipid accumulation.

A Hydrostatic Pressure-Driven Desalination System for Large-Scale Deep Sea Space Station

Compared with the common marine renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and wave energy, etc., the hydraulic pressure stored in the deep seawater can output stable and successive energy flow. Thus, it can be directly coupled with the reverse osmosis (RO) process to supply drinkable mineral water for crews of Deep Sea Space Station (DSSS). We proposed a novel submarine RO desalination system driven by the hydraulic pressure of deep seawater (SHP-RO), composed of a desalination branch to generate fresh water and a back pressure branch to ensure the depth independence of the desalination. The influences of the deep sea environment on the RO were analyzed, based on which the pretreatment of the seawater and the preparation of the drinkable mineral water were studied. The turbine-based energy recovery scheme was investigated in virtue of the CFD simulation on the flow behavior in the different turbine series. It was predicted that, when the DSSS was located at the depth of 1100 m and the operating pressure of the RO process was 6.0 MPa, for a drinkable water production rate of 240 m3/d, the recovered hydraulic pressure energy can achieve 39.22 kW·h, which was enough for driving electricity consumers in the SHP-RO system.

Deep Ocean Water Concentrate Changes Physicochemical Characteristics, the Profile of Volatile Components and Consumer Acceptance for Taiwanese Rice Shochu

To study the effects of deep-ocean water concentrate (DOWC) on sake quality, Taichung No. 10 indica rice (Oryza sativa subsp. indica) and Tainan No. 11 japonica rice (O. sativa subsp. japonica) were used as raw materials, and basic physicochemical property parameters in shochu were analyzed differentially. Sake fermentation mash analysis results revealed that DOWC addition did not significantly affect the basic physicochemical properties during sake brewing, but it significantly reduced citric acid and malic acid contents in Taichung No. 10 indica rice sake sample by 52–66% and 73–93%, respectively. DOWC addition significantly increased citric acid content in Tainan No. 11 japonica rice sake sample by 32–202%. Rice shochu analysis results revealed that DOWC addition significantly increased isoamyl acetate, ethyl hexanoate, and ethyl octanoate contents in shochu made from japonica rice and indica rice, respectively. The results indicate that rice variety directly affects the types of volatile compounds in rice shochu. Principal component analysis and sensory evaluation results revealed that DOWC addition affected the composition of volatile compounds in the two types of rice shochu and resulted in differences in flavor evaluation. DOWC addition affects yeast metabolites and directly changes the volatile compound composition and flavor of rice shochu.

Modeling Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rodents

Standardized animal models represent one of the most valuable tools available to understand the mechanism underlying the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to seek for new therapeutic strategies. However, there is considerable variability in the studies conducted with this essential purpose. This review presents an updated discussion of the most recent studies using diverse experimental conditions to induce MetS in rodents with unbalanced diets, discusses the key findings in metabolic outcomes, and critically evaluates what we have been learned from them and how to advance in the field. The study includes scientific reports sourced from the Web of Science and PubMed databases, published between January 2013 and June 2020, which used hypercaloric diets to induce metabolic disorders, and address the impact of the diet on metabolic parameters. The collected data are used as support to discuss variables such as sex, species, and age of the animals, the most favorable type of diet, and the ideal diet length to generate metabolic changes. The experimental characteristics propose herein improve the performance of a preclinical model that resembles the human MetS and will guide researchers to investigate new therapeutic alternatives with confidence and higher translational validity.

Drinking Refined Deep-Sea Water Improves the Gut Ecosystem with Beneficial Effects on Intestinal Health in Humans: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

World health trends are focusing on a balanced food and beverage intake for healthy life. Refined deep-sea water (RDSW), obtained from deep-sea water collected offshore in Muroto (Japan), is mineral-rich drinking water. We previously reported that drinking RDSW improves human gut health. Here, we analyzed the effect of drinking RDSW on the gut ecosystem to understand this effect. This was a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Ninety-eight healthy adults were divided into two groups: RDSW or mineral water (control). The participants consumed 1 L of either water type daily for 12 weeks. A self-administered questionnaire and stool and urine samples were collected through the intervention. The following were determined: fecal biomarkers of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), five putrefactive products, and nine short-chain-fatty-acids (SCFAs) as the primary outcomes; and three urinary isoflavones and the questionnaire as secondary outcomes. In post-intervention in the RDSW group, we found increased concentrations of five SCFAs and decreased concentrations of phenol and sIgA (p < 0.05). The multiple logistic analysis demonstrated that RDSW significantly affected two biomarkers (acetic and 3-methylbutanoic acids) of the five SCFAs mentioned above (p < 0.05). Similarly, the concentrations of urinary isoflavones tended to increase in post-intervention in the RDSW group. Constipation was significantly alleviated in the RDSW group (94%) compared with the control group (60%). Drinking RDSW improves the intestinal environment, increasing fecal SCFAs and urinary isoflavones, which leads to broad beneficial effects in human.

Refined Deep Seawater Improves Serum Lipid Profile in Hypercholesterolemia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Trial

Deep seawater (DSW) has been investigated for its lipid-lowering effects, but clinical evidence is still far from conclusive. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the effects of refined DSW (RDSW) on hypercholesterolemia. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 78 Korean participants were randomized to either an RDSW group that drank RDSW for 8 weeks or a placebo group. Clinical laboratory information was collected from all subjects at 0, 4, and 8 weeks. Both groups showed a significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC), whereas only the RDSW group demonstrated a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) during the study. Stratified analysis of both groups revealed a significant reduction of TC in the moderately high TC subgroup. However, only the RDSW exhibited a significant decline of LDL-c in the high LDL-c subgroup. In addition, lipoprotein(a) decreased significantly in the RDSW group, but not in the placebo. RDSW did not affect other lipid profiles, including high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), triglyceride, free fatty acid, apolipoproteins, and other markers including inflammation marker, hematological parameters, blood and urine chemistry, and vital signs. RDSW improved lipid profiles by decreasing TC and LDL-c while maintaining HDL-c levels in people with hypercholesterolemia.

Supplementation of nanofiltrated deep ocean water ameliorate the progression of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rat via regulating osteoblast differentiation

Magnesium was reported to be necessary for bone formation. Previous study indicated nanofiltrated deep ocean water (DOW) rich in magnesium. This study investigated the potential mechanisms of DOW in ameliorating osteoporosis. Briefly, female Sprague-Dawley rat was ovariectomized and fed with 0.35, 0.7, or 1.4 ml/kg of DOW daily for 8 weeks. In the results, DOW increased bone density, decreased trabecular bone loss, and decreased bone adiposity. DOW improved bone mass by examining structure in micro-computed tomography. About 0.35 and 0.7 ml/kg of DOW can increase protein expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), an essential transcription factor for regulating osteoblast differentiation, by 9.4% or 12.9%. In human osteoblast, DOW increased the levels of osteocalcin, RUNX2, and alkaline phosphatase; all the proteins can regulate osteoblast differentiation. Considering the results of in vivo and in vitro study, DOW can ameliorate ovareictomy-caused osteoporosis via regulating the osteoblast differentiation, thereby, maintenance of bone structure. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In addition to calcium, magnesium is essential to promoting the deposition of calcium in bones and regulating its transport; it may also slow the progression of osteoporosis. Nanofiltrated DOW contains abundant magnesium along with several microelements and peptides. In this study, a product was developed for decelerating osteoporosis by using an estrogen depletion model. DOW regulates osteoblast differentiation and thus prevents osteoporosis. This finding provides an alternative healthy source of bone supplements. In addition to tablets or capsules, aqueous supplements can be produced to achieve osteoporosis prevention. This finding is beneficial to the health-care industry for developing sustainable supplements.

Deep sea minerals ameliorate diabetic-induced inflammation via inhibition of TNFα signaling pathways

It has been well-documented that the consumption of deep sea water (DSW) has beneficial effects on myocardial hypertrophy and cardiac apoptosis induced by hypercholesterolemia. However, the molecular mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory effects of DSW on diabetic cardiomyopathy are still largely unclear. The main purpose of this present study was to test the hypothesis that DSW exerts anti-inflammatory effects through the suppression of the TNF-α-mediated signaling pathways. IP injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at the dose of 65 mg/kg was used to establish a diabetes rat model. DSW mineral extracts that diluted in desalinated water were prepared in three different dosages and administered to the rats through gavages for 4 weeks. These dosages are DSW-1X (equivalent to 37 mg Mg²⁺ /kg/day), 2X (equivalent to 74 mg Mg²⁺ /kg/day) and 3X (equivalent to 111 mg Mg²⁺ mg/kg/day). Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot showed that the protein expression level of TNF-α was markedly higher in the STZ-induced diabetic rat hearts than in the control group. Consequently, the phosphorylation levels of the TNF-α-modulated downstream signaling molecules and P38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were notably elevated in heart tissues of STZ-induced diabetes. These higher phosphorylation levels subsequently upregulated NF-κB-modulated inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase (COX)-II and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). However, treatment with DSW as well as MgSO₄ , the main mineral in DSW, significantly reversed all the alterations. These findings suggest that DSW has potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing diabetes-related cardiovascular diseases.

Natural Magnesium-Enriched Deep-Sea Water Improves Insulin Resistance and the Lipid Profile of Prediabetic Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blinded Crossover Trial

Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that the antidiabetic effect of balanced deep-sea water (BDSW) works through the suppression of hyperglycemia and improvement of glucose tolerance. Based on these promising results, we conducted an eight week randomized, double-blinded crossover trial of the effects of BDSW in prediabetic adults. The subjects consumed 440 mL of BDSW (hardness 4000) per day, and maintained an otherwise normal lifestyle and diet throughout. Efficacy assessments were made by measuring fasting glucose, postprandial glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), C-peptide, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid metabolism indicators, and physical metrics, along with safety assessments. Fasting insulin and HOMA-IR values of the BDSW group were significantly lower than those of the placebo group after eight weeks of BDSW ingestion. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein–cholesterol were also significantly decreased in the BDSW group after eight weeks of BDSW ingestion compared with the placebo group. There were no statistically and clinically meaningful changes in adverse events, physical examination, laboratory medicine examination, or vital signs of the BDSW intake group. These results suggested that the intake of BDSW in prediabetic adults can improve glucose metabolism and lipid profiles and is safe for human consumption.

Anti‑platelet activity of mineral‑balanced deep sea water is mediated via the regulation of Akt and ERK pathway crosstalk

Mineral‑balanced deep sea water (MBDSW), an unlimited natural sea source, has been demonstrated to minimize the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as obesity, hypertension, inflammation and hyperlipidemia. This study investigated the effects of MBDSW [magnesium (Mg):calcium (Ca) ratio, 3:1] on platelet activation. MBDSW significantly inhibited the collagen‑ and thrombin‑induced platelet aggregation of human platelets. In collagen‑induced platelets, MBDSW inhibited intracellular calcium mobilization, granule secretion [serotonin, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and P‑selectin expression] and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) production. Moreover, MBDSW markedly inhibited Akt and extracellular signal‑regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, but not that of c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase (JNK) and p38. Moreover, MBDSW phosphorylated inositol 1,4,5‑triphosphate receptor (IP3R) and vasodilator‑stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP), and it increased the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) level in collagen‑induced human platelets. Dipyridamole, a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor, significantly increased the cAMP level and regulated the Akt, ERK and VASP (Ser157) levels in a manner similar to that of MBDSW. In addition, LY294002, an Akt inhibitor, inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK, and U0126, an ERK inhibitor, inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt. Taken together, the results of the present investigation suggest that the inhibitory effects of MBDSW on platelet aggregation may be associated with the cross‑inhibition of Akt and ERK phosphorylation. These results strongly indicate that MBDSW may have preventive or therapeutic potential for platelet aggregation‑mediated diseases, such as thrombosis, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction.

Mineral-Enriched Deep-Sea Water Modulates Lactate Metabolism via PGC-1α-Mediated Metabolic Reprogramming

Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity are serious global health issues. These diseases are accelerated by mineral deficiencies, emphasizing the importance of addressing these deficiencies in disease management plans. Lactate metabolism is fundamentally linked to glucose metabolism, and several clinical studies have reported that blood lactate levels are higher in obese and diabetic patients than in healthy subjects. Balanced deep-sea water contains various minerals and exhibits antiobesity and antidiabetic activities in mice; however, the impact of balanced deep-sea water on lactate metabolism is unclear. Thus, we evaluated the effects of balanced deep-sea water on lactate metabolism in C2C12 myotubes, and found that balanced deep-sea water mediated lactate metabolism by regulating the gene expression levels of lactate dehydrogenases A and B, a monocarboxylate transporter, and a mitochondrial pyruvate carrier. The activities of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and signaling molecules involved in PGC-1α activation were also upregulated by treatment with balanced deep-sea water. These results suggest that balanced deep-sea water, which can mediate lactate metabolism, may be used to prevent or treat obesity and diabetes mellitus.

Deep ocean minerals inhibit IL-6 and IGFIIR hypertrophic signaling pathways to attenuate diabetes-induced hypertrophy in rat hearts

We previously reported that deep sea water (DSW) prolongs the life span of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats by the compensatory augmentation of the insulin like growth factor (IGF)-I survival signaling and inhibition of apoptosis. Here, we investigated the effects of DSW on cardiac hypertrophy in diabetic rats. Cardiac hypertrophy was induced in rats by using STZ (65 mg/kg) administered via IP injection. DSW was prepared by mixing DSW mineral extracts and desalinated water. Different dosages of DSW-1X (equivalent to 37 mg Mg²⁺·kg^-1·day^-1), 2X (equivalent to 74 mg Mg²⁺·kg^-1·day^-1) and 3X (equivalent to 111 mg Mg²⁺·kg^-1·day^-1) were administered to the rats through gavage for 4 wk. Cardiac hypertrophy was evaluated by the heart weight-to-body weight ratio and the cardiac tissue cross-sectional area after hematoxylin and eosin staining. The protein levels of the cardiac hypertrophy signaling molecules were determined by Western blot. Our results showed that the suppressive effects of the DSW treatment on STZ-induced cardiac hypertrophy were comparable to those of MgSO₄ administration and that the hypertrophic marker brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) was decreased by DSW. In addition, DSW attenuated both the eccentric hypertrophy signaling pathway, IL-6-MEK-STAT3, and the concentric signaling pathway, IGF-II-PKCα-CaMKII, in DM rat hearts. The cardiac hypertrophy-associated activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and the upregulation of the transcription factor GATA binding protein 4 (GATA4) were also negated by treatment with DSW. The results from this study suggest that DSW could be a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of diabetic cardiac hypertrophy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Deep sea water, containing high levels of minerals, improve cardiac hypertrophy in diabetic rats through attenuating the eccentric signaling pathway, IL-6-MEK5-STAT3, and concentric signaling pathway, IGF2-PKCα-CaMKII. The results from this study suggest that deep sea water could be a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of diabetic cardiac hypertrophy.

Oral Ingestion of Deep Ocean Minerals Increases High-Intensity Intermittent Running Capacity in Soccer Players after Short-Term Post-Exercise Recovery: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial

This study examined whether deep ocean mineral (DOM) supplementation improved high-intensity intermittent running capacity after short-term recovery from an initial bout of prolonged high-intensity running in thermoneutral environmental conditions. Nine healthy recreational male soccer players (age: 22 ± 1 y; stature: 181 ± 5 cm; and body mass 80 ± 11 kg) completed a graded incremental test to ascertain peak oxygen uptake (V^·O_2PEAK), two familiarisation trials, and two experimental trials following a double-blind, repeated measures, crossover and counterbalanced design. All trials were separated by seven days and at ambient room temperature (i.e., 20 °C). During the 2 h recovery period after the initial ~60 min running at 75% V^·O_2PEAK, participants were provided with 1.38 ± 0.51 L of either deep ocean mineral water (DOM) or a taste-matched placebo (PLA), both mixed with 6% sucrose. DOM increased high-intensity running capacity by ~25% compared to PLA. There were no differences between DOM and PLA for blood lactate concentration, blood glucose concentration, or urine osmolality. The minerals and trace elements within DOM, either individually or synergistically, appear to have augmented high-intensity running capacity in healthy, recreationally active male soccer players after short-term recovery from an initial bout of prolonged, high-intensity running in thermoneutral environmental conditions.

The preventive effect of deep sea water on the development of cancerous skin cells through the induction of autophagic cell death in UVB-damaged HaCaT keratinocyte

Ultraviolet light (UV) is a major inducer of skin cancer. Therefore, recovery and removal of UV-damaged skin cells are important in the prevention of skin carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated the effect of deep sea water (DSW) in HaCaT keratinocyte exposed by UVB (λ = 290∼320 nm). The result showed that UVB-induced cell death was reinforced by DSW treatment in a hardness-dependent manner. Furthermore, the increase of cell death by DSW was associated with the down-regulation of survivin and RAD51 expressions induced by UVB. Moreover, we confirmed the inhibition of H2 A.X phosphorylation, a marker for double-stranded DNA damage, and the enhancement of LC3-II and SQSTM1/p62 expressions by DSW administration in UVB-radiated HaCaT keratinocyte. The results imply that the enhancement of UVB-induced cell death by DSW is associated with autophagy. Therefore, we further explored the regulation of autophagy-regulating proteins and apoptosis-related factors expression. Phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), ribosomal protein S6, and S6 kinase by UVB radiation were regressed via DSW treatment, underlying the increase of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation. Furthermore, UVB-enhanced nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylations were increased with DSW treatment. Contrastingly, DSW lessened the Ser15 phosphorylation of p53 and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase induced by UVB radiation. Consequently, the results demonstrate that DSW enhances UVB-damaged skin cell clearance through the activation of autophagic cell death underlying the regulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mTOR signaling as well as NF-κB and JNK phosphorylations. In conclusion, this investigation suggests that DSW is a potent candidate for the prevention of UV-induced skin cancer development.

Kaempferol ameliorates hyperglycemia through suppressing hepatic gluconeogenesis and enhancing hepatic insulin sensitivity in diet-induced obese mice

Obesity-associated insulin resistance (IR) is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes and an array of other metabolic disorders. In particular, hepatic IR contributes to the increase in hepatic glucose production and consequently the development of fasting hyperglycemia. In this study, we explored whether kaempferol, a flavonoid isolated from Gink go biloba, is able to regulate hepatic gluconeogenesis and blood glucose homeostasis in high-fat diet-fed obese mice and further explored the underlying mechanism by which it elicits such effects. Oral administration of kaempferol (50 mg/kg/day), which is the human equivalent dose of 240 mg/day for an average 60 kg human, significantly improved blood glucose control in obese mice, which was associated with reduced hepatic glucose production and improved whole-body insulin sensitivity without altering body weight gain, food consumption or adiposity. In addition, kaempferol treatment increased Akt and hexokinase activity, but decreased pyruvate carboxylase (PC) and glucose-6 phosphatase activity in the liver without altering their protein expression. Consistently, kaempferol decreased PC activity and suppressed gluconeogenesis in HepG2 cells as well as primary hepatocytes isolated from the livers of obese mice. Furthermore, we found that kaempferol is a direct inhibitor of PC. These findings suggest that kaempferol may be a naturally occurring antidiabetic compound that acts by suppressing glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity. Kaempferol suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis is due to its direct inhibitory action on the enzymatic activity of PC.

Combination Treatment of Deep Sea Water and Fucoidan Attenuates High Glucose-Induced Insulin-Resistance in HepG2 Hepatocytes

Insulin resistance (IR) plays a central role in the development of several metabolic diseases, which leads to increased morbidity and mortality rates, in addition to soaring health-care costs. Deep sea water (DSW) and fucoidans (FPS) have drawn much attention in recent years because of their potential medical and pharmaceutical applications. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of combination treatment of DSW and FPS in improving IR in HepG2 hepatocytes induced by a high glucose concentration. The results elucidated that co-treatment with DSW and FPS could synergistically repress hepatic glucose production and increase the glycogen level in IR-HepG2 cells. In addition, they stimulated the phosphorylation levels of the components of the insulin signaling pathway, including tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1, and serine phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. Furthermore, they increased the phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC, which in turn decreased the intracellular triglyceride level. Taken together, these results suggested that co-treatment with DSW and FPS had a greater improving effect than DSW or FPS alone on IR. They might attenuate IR by targeting Akt/GSK-3β and AMPK pathways. These results may have some implications in the treatment of metabolic diseases.

The prevention of TNF-α/IFN-γ mixture-induced inflammation in human keratinocyte and atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in Nc/Nga mice by mineral-balanced deep sea water

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by environmental and chemical allergens. Despite the complexity of its pathogenesis, many investigations have shown that substances having anti-inflammatory activities alleviated the pathology of AD. Here, we evaluated the effects of mineral-balanced deep sea water (DSW) on AD-like skin damage in both in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that mineral-balanced DSW regressed inflammatory chemokines, such as macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) mRNA expression in HaCaT immortal human keratinocyte treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/ interferon (IFN)-γ mixture. Furthermore, increased cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 protein expressions were also reversed, filaggrin gene expression was enhanced and decreased involucrin transcriptions was recovered by mineral-balanced DSW in TNF-α/IFN-γ mixture-treated HaCaT human keratinocyte. Moreover, we revealed that the inhibitory effects of mineral-balanced DSW were mediated with the suppression of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 phosphorylation. In animal experiments, we showed that hardness 2000 of mineral-balanced DSW decreased the serum levels of IgE, IL-4, and histamine, and alleviated the severity score and numbers of scratching in dinitrochlorobezene (DNCB)-treated Nc/Nga mice. Furthermore, increased epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration by DNCB treatment were reversed by the application of hardness 2000 mineral-balanced DSW. Taken together, the present investigation indicates that mineral-balanced DSW is a potent substance with anti-atopic dermatitis activity.

Refined Deep-Sea Water Suppresses Inflammatory Responses via the MAPK/AP-1 and NF-κB Signaling Pathway in LPS-Treated RAW 264.7 Macrophage Cells

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a type of inflammatory skin disease caused by genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental stresses. It is, however, still considered to be a refractory disease. Macrophages are inflammatory immune cells that infiltrate the skin and induce inflammation. We investigated the effect of refined deep-sea water (RDSW) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The results showed that RDSW suppressed the expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. Furthermore, nitric oxide, a product of iNOS, and prostaglandin (PG) D₂ and PGE₂, products of COX-2, were significantly inhibited by RDSW in a hardness-dependent manner. Moreover, we found that RDSW reversed the release of histamines and regressed the mRNA expressions and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, and vascular endothelial growth factor, in a hardness-dependent manner. We also found that the suppressive effect of RDSW on LPS-induced inflammatory responses was regulated by the inhibition of NF-κB nuclear translocation, and ERK 1/2 and JNK 1/2 mediated the suppression of c-Jun and c-Fos expressions. In conclusion, the present investigation suggests the possibility that RDSW may be used to treat and/or prevent inflammatory diseases, including AD.

Effects of drinking desalinated seawater on cell viability and proliferation

Desalination of seawater is becoming an important means to address the increasing scarcity of freshwater resources in the world. Seawater has been used as drinking water in the health, food, and medical fields and various beneficial effects have been suggested, although not confirmed. Given the presence of 63 minerals and trace elements in drinking desalinated seawater (63 DSW), we evaluated their effects on the behavior of tumorigenic and nontumorigenic cells through the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay and annexin-V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide staining. Our results showed that cell viability and proliferation in the presence of 63 DSW were significantly greater than in mineral water and in the presence of fetal bovine serum in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, 63 DSW showed no toxic effect on murine embryonic fibroblast (NIH-3T3) and murine melanoma (B16-F10) cells. In another assay, we also showed that pre-treatment of non-adherent THP-1 cells with 63 DSW reduces apoptosis incidence, suggesting a protective effect against cell death. We conclude that cell viability and proliferation were improved by the mineral components of 63 DSW and this effect can guide further studies on health effects associated with DSW consumption.

Deep sea water improves hypercholesterolemia and hepatic lipid accumulation through the regulation of hepatic lipid metabolic gene expression

A high‑fat diet or high‑cholesterol diet (HCD) is a major cause of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes; vascular diseases, including hypertension, stroke and arteriosclerosis; and liver diseases, including hepatic steatosis and cirrhosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of deep sea water (DSW) on rats fed a HCD. DSW decreased HCD‑induced increases in total cholesterol and low‑density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood, and recovered high‑density lipoprotein cholesterol. In addition, DSW decreased levels of liver injury markers, which were increased in response to HCD, including glutamate‑oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate‑pyruvate transferase and alkaline phosphatase. Lower lipid droplet levels were observed in the livers of rats fed a HCD and treated with DSW at a hardness of 1,500, as compared with those in the HCD only group. Semi‑quantitative reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction (RT‑PCR) revealed that mRNA expression levels of fatty acid synthase and sterol regulatory element binding protein‑1c (SREBP‑1c) in rats fed a HCD with DSW were lower compared with the HCD only group. Furthermore, quantitative RT‑PCR revealed that DSW enhanced LDL receptor (LDLR) mRNA expression in a hardness‑dependent manner. Combined, the results of the present study indicated that DSW may reduce HCD‑induced increases in blood and liver lipid levels, indicating that DSW may protect against hypercholesterolemia and non‑alcoholic hepatic steatosis. In addition, the present study demonstrated that DSW‑induced downregulation of lipids in the blood and hepatic lipid accumulation was mediated by enhancement of LDLR expression and suppression of fatty acid synthase and SREBP‑1c.

Potential Health Benefits of Deep Sea Water: A Review

Deep sea water (DSW) commonly refers to a body of seawater that is pumped up from a depth of over 200 m. It is usually associated with the following characteristics: low temperature, high purity, and being rich with nutrients, namely, beneficial elements, which include magnesium, calcium, potassium, chromium, selenium, zinc, and vanadium. Less photosynthesis of plant planktons, consumption of nutrients, and organic decomposition have caused lots of nutrients to remain there. Due to this, DSW has potential to become a good source for health. Research has proven that DSW can help overcome health problems especially related to lifestyle-associated diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and skin problems. This paper reviews the potential health benefits of DSW by referring to the findings from previous researches.

Increasing anti-Aβ-induced neurotoxicity ability of Antrodia camphorata-fermented product with deep ocean water supplementary

BACKGROUND

Antrodia camphorata is proven to probably inhibit the neurotoxicity of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ), known as a risk factor toward the development of Alzheimer's disease. Deep ocean water (DOW), drawn from an ocean depth of more than 200 m, has proven to stimulate the growth and metabolite biosynthesis of fungi owing to its rich minerals and trace elements. Based on these advantages of DOW, this study used statistical response surface methodology (RSM) to investigate the effects of DOW on the growth and anti-Aβ-induced neurocytotoxicity ability of A. camphorata.

RESULTS

The results showed that DOW was useful for increasing the biomass of A. camphorata and enhancing its neuroprotective capability. The anti-Aβ40-induced neurocytotoxicity ability of filtrate was increased via raising the mycelium-secreted components. Furthermore, the anti-Aβ40-induced neurocytotoxicity ability of mycelium was also increased by the DOW-stimulated intracellular antioxidants. Using 80% DOW concentration, initial pH 3.3 and 20% inoculum size as the optimal culture conditions of A. camphorata significantly stimulated the biomass and mycelium-mediated Aβ40-induced cell viability from 302 ± 14 mg per 100 mL and 49.2 ± 2.2% to 452 ± 33 mg per 100 mL and 65.0 ± 7.4% respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that DOW could be used as a promising supplementary for the production of A. camphorata secondary metabolites with strong antioxidant activity to protect neuron cells from damage based on Aβ stimulation cytotoxicity. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Black ginseng extract exerts anti-hyperglycemic effect via modulation of glucose metabolism in liver and muscle

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, Araliaceae) has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years for the treatment of a wide variety of diseases, including diabetes. Processed ginseng named Black ginseng exhibits more potent biological activities than white and red ginseng. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of black ginseng extract (GBG05-FF) on hyperglycemia and glucose tolerance in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Black ginseng was produced by a repeated steaming and drying process, subsequent extraction with 70% ethanol, filtration, and lyophilization. The effect of GBG05-FF on glucose uptake and related protein expression and phosphorylation were determined in C2C12 cells. Furthermore, we evaluated the anti-diabetic effects of GBG05-FF in STZ-induced diabetic mice.

RESULTS

GBG05-FF significantly (p<0.05) increased glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes via AMPK, Sirt1 and PI3-K pathway. In addition, GBG05-FF improved the fasting blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance in STZ-induced diabetic mice. GBG05-FF decreased blood parameters such as glycated hemoglobin, triglyceride and total cholesterol. Quantitative RT-PCR assay revealed that in the STZ-induced diabetic mice treated with GBG05-FF, the expression of hepatic genes involved in gluconeogenesis (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase)), glycogenolysis (liver glycogen phosphorylase (LGP)) and glycogenesis (glycogen synthase (GS)) was suppressed, while the expression of the genes involved in glucose uptake (glucose transporter (GLUT) 1, GLUT4) and β-oxidation (acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO), carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1a (CPT1a), mitochondrial medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD)) in muscle were increased. GBG05-FF delayed diabetes-associated muscle atrophy by activating mTOR. The major bioactive compounds including ginsenoside Rg1, Rg3(S), Rg3(R), Rg5, Rk1 and Rh4 were evaluated for glucose uptake effect in C2C12 myotubes; the data indicated that Rh4 significantly (p<0.05) increased glucose uptake.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the results suggested that GBG05-FF is a potentially useful agent for treatment of diabetes by increasing glucose uptake.

Stimulatory Effect of Balanced Deep-Sea Water Containing Chitosan Oligosaccharides on Glucose Uptake in C2C12 Myotubes

Deep-sea water (DSW) and chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) have recently drawn much attention because of their potential medical and pharmaceutical applications. Balanced DSW (BDSW) was prepared by mixing DSW mineral extracts and desalinated water. This study investigated the effects of BDSW, COS, and BDSW containing COS on glucose uptake and their mode of action in mature C2C12 myotubes. BDSW and COS increased glucose uptake in a dose-dependent manner. BDSW containing COS synergistically increased glucose uptake; this was dependent on the activation of insulin receptor substrate 1 and protein kinase C in insulin-dependent signaling pathways as well as liver kinase B1, AMP-activated protein kinase, and mammalian target of rapamycin in insulin-independent signaling pathways. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that the expressions of the following genes related to glucose uptake were elevated: glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), insulin-responsive aminopeptidase, and vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 for abundant proteins of GLUT4 storage vesicles (GSVs); syntaxin 4 and soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein 23 for trafficking between the plasma membrane and GSVs; and syntaxin 6 and syntaxin 16 for trafficking between GSVs and the trans-Golgi network. Taken together, these results suggest BDSW containing COS has a greater stimulatory effect on glucose uptake than BDSW or COS alone. Moreover, this effect is mediated by the stimulation of diverse signaling pathways via the activation of main signaling molecules related to GSV trafficking.

Magnesium and calcium-enriched deep-sea water promotes mitochondrial biogenesis by AMPK-activated signals pathway in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

Recent studies showed that deficiencies of essential minerals including Mg, Ca, and K, and trace minerals including Se, Zn, and V, have implications for the development, prevention, and treatment of several chronic diseases including obesity and type 2 diabetes. Our previous studies revealed that balanced deep-sea water (BDSW), which is composed of desalinated water enriched with Mg and Ca, has potential as a treatment for diabetes and obesity. In this study, to determine whether BDSW regulates mitochondrial biogenesis and function, we investigated its effects on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content, mitochondrial enzyme activity, expression of key transcription factors and mitochondria-specific genes, phosphorylation of signaling molecules associated with mitochondrial biogenesis, and mitochondrial function in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. BDSW increased mitochondrial biogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that BDSW enhances expression of PGC1-α, NRF1, and TFAM genes. Upregulation of these genes was supported by increased mitochondria staining, CytC oxidase activity, and AMPK phosphorylation. The stimulatory effect of BDSW on mitochondrial biogenesis and function suggests a novel mechanism for BDSW-induced anti-diabetic and anti-obesity action.

Tyrosol, an olive oil polyphenol, inhibits ER stress-induced apoptosis in pancreatic β-cell through JNK signaling

Dysfunction of pancreatic β-cell is a major determinant for the development of type 2 diabetes. Because of the stimulated insulin secretion in metabolic syndrome, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a central mediator for β-cell failure. In this study, we investigated whether an antioxidant phenolic compound, tyrosol protects against β-cell dysfunction associated with ER stress. To address this issue, we exposed pancreatic β cells, NIT-1 to tunicamycin with tyrosol. We found tyrosol diminished tunicamycin-induced cell death in a dose-dependent manner. We also detected tyrosol decreased the expressions of apoptosis-related markers. Exposure to tunicamycin evoked UPR response and co-treatment of tyrosol led to reduction of ER stress. These effects of tyrosol were mediated by the phosphorylation of JNK. Moreover, we confirmed supplement of tyrosol ameliorated β-cell loss induced by high fat feeding. Taken together, our study provides a molecular basis for signaling transduction of protective effect of tyrosol against ER stress-induced β-cell death. Therefore, we suggest tyrosol could be a potential therapeutic candidate for amelioration of type 2 diabetes.

Stimulatory Effects of Balanced Deep Sea Water on Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Function

The worldwide prevalence of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes, is increasing. Mitochondrial dysfunction is recognized as a core feature of these diseases. Emerging evidence also suggests that defects in mitochondrial biogenesis, number, morphology, fusion, and fission, contribute to the development and progression of metabolic diseases. Our previous studies revealed that balanced deep-sea water (BDSW) has potential as a treatment for diabetes and obesity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanism by which BDSW regulates diabetes and obesity by studying its effects on mitochondrial metabolism. To determine whether BDSW regulates mitochondrial biogenesis and function, we investigated its effects on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content, mitochondrial enzyme activity, and the expression of transcription factors and mitochondria specific genes, as well as on the phosphorylation of signaling molecules associated with mitochondria biogenesis and its function in C₂C₁₂ myotubes. BDSW increased mitochondrial biogenesis in a time and dose-dependent manner. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that BDSW enhances gene expression of PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM for mitochondrial transcription; MFN1/2 and DRP1 for mitochondrial fusion; OPA1 for mitochondrial fission; TOMM40 and TIMM44 for mitochondrial protein import; CPT-1α and MCAD for fatty acid oxidation; CYTC for oxidative phosphorylation. Upregulation of these genes was validated by increased mitochondria staining, CS activity, CytC oxidase activity, NAD⁺ to NADH ratio, and the phosphorylation of signaling molecules such as AMPK and SIRT1. Moreover, drinking BDSW remarkably improved mtDNA content in the muscles of HFD-induced obese mice. Taken together, these results suggest that the stimulatory effect of BDSW on mitochondrial biogenesis and function may provide further insights into the regulatory mechanism of BDSW-induced anti-diabetic and anti-obesity action.

The advantages of deep ocean water for the development of functional fermentation food

Deep ocean water (DOW) is obtained from 600 m below the sea surface. In recent years, DOW has been applied in the development of fermentation biotechnologies and functional foods. DOW is rich in trace minerals, comprises multiple physiological and health functions, and is able to promote microbe growth; therefore, the application of DOW directly benefits the development of the fermentation industry and functional foods. This study integrated the current health functions and applications of DOW with the latest results from studies related to fermentation biotechnology. Subsequently, the influence of applying DOW in fermented functional food development and the effects in health function improvements were summarized. According to the previous studies, the main reasons for the increased effect of fermented functional foods through the application of DOW are increased generation of functional metabolite contents in the microbes, intrinsic health functions of DOW, and the microbial use of mechanisms of converting the absorbed inorganic ions into highly bioavailable organic ions for the human body. These combined advantages not only enhance the health functions of fermentation products but also provide fermentation products with the intrinsic health functions of DOW.

Modulation of glucose metabolism by balanced deep-sea water ameliorates hyperglycemia and pancreatic function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of balanced deep-sea water (BDSW) on hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. BDSW was prepared by mixing DSW mineral extracts and desalinated water to yield a final hardness of 1000–4000 ppm. Male ICR mice were assigned to 6 groups; mice in each group were given tap water (normal and STZ diabetic groups) or STZ with BDSW of varying hardness (0, 1000, 2000, and 4000 ppm) for 4 weeks. The STZ with BDSW group exhibited lowered fasting plasma glucose levels than the STZ-induced diabetic group. Oral glucose tolerance tests showed that BDSW improves impaired glucose tolerance in STZ-induced diabetic mice. Histopathological evaluation of the pancreas showed that BDSW restores the morphology of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans and increases the secretion of insulin in STZ-induced diabetic mice. Quantitative real-time PCR assay revealed that the expression of hepatic genes involved in gluconeogenesis, glucose oxidation, and glycogenolysis was suppressed, while the expression of the genes involved in glucose uptake, β-oxidation, and glucose oxidation in muscle were increased in the STZ with BDSW group. BDSW stimulated PI3-K, AMPK, and mTOR pathway-mediated glucose uptake in C₂C₁₂ myotubes. BDSW increased AMPK phosphorylation in C₂C₁₂ myotubes and improved impaired AMPK phosphorylation in the muscles of STZ-induced diabetic mice. Taken together, these results suggest that BDSW is a potential anti-diabetic agent, owing to its ability to suppress hyperglycemia and improve glucose intolerance by modulating glucose metabolism, recovering pancreatic islets of Langerhans and increasing glucose uptake.

Effects of balanced deep-sea water on adipocyte hypertrophy and liver steatosis in high-fat, diet-induced obese mice

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of balanced deep-sea water (BDSW) on adipocyte hypertrophy and liver steatosis in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese C57BL/6J mice.

METHODS

BDSW was prepared by mixing deep-sea water (DSW) mineral extracts and desalinated water. C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet or HFD with or without BDSW with different hardness (500, 1000, or 2000) for 20 weeks.

RESULTS

BDSW suppressed body weight gain in HFD-fed mice. Histopathologic assays of the fat and liver revealed that BDSW inhibited the increase in adipocyte size and improved severe liver steatosis in HFD-fed mice. BDSW suppressed the expression of adipogenic, lipogenic, lipolytic, and pro-inflammatory cytokine genes and increased the expression of adipokines and β-oxidation genes in fat. In the liver, BDSW suppressed the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis and cholesterol synthesis, and increased the expression of genes related to β-oxidation. Furthermore, BDSW improved the impaired phosphorylation of IRS-1, LKB1, AMPK, and mTOR in fat and liver tissues of HFD-fed mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that BDSW has potential as an anti-lipidemic agent, given its ability to suppress body weight gain and liver steatosis through the regulation of lipid metabolism by signal molecule activation.