Eruca sativa Meal against Diabetic Neuropathic Pain: An H2S-Mediated Effect of Glucoerucin

Insights into Osteogenesis Induced by Crude Brassicaceae Seeds Extracts: A Role for Glucosinolates

Background/Objectives: Crude extracts from the Brassica genus have recently emerged as promising phytochemicals for preventing bone loss. While the most documented evidence suggests that their general biological activity is due to glucosinolates' (GLSs') hydrolysis products, the direct activity of GLSs is beginning to be uncovered. However, the contribution of GLSs to the bone-sparing activity of crude Brassicaceae extracts has seldom been addressed. Here, we aimed to gain insights into this gap by studying in the same in vitro model of human osteogenesis the effect of two Brassica seed extracts (Eruca sativa and Lepidium sativum) obtained from defatted seed meals, comparing them to the isolated GLSs most represented in their composition, glucoerucin (GER) and glucotropaeolin (GTL), for Eruca sativa and Lepidium sativum, respectively. Methods: Osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) was assessed by alizarin red staining assay and real-time PCR, respectively, evaluating mineral apposition and mRNA expression of specific osteogenic genes. Results: Both Brassica extracts and GLSs increased the osteogenic differentiation, indicating that the stimulating effect of Brassica extracts can be at least partially attributed to GLSs. Moreover, these data extend previous evidence of the effect of unhydrolyzed glucoraphanin (GRA) on osteogenesis to other types of GLSs: GER and GTL. Notably, E. sativa extract and GTL induced higher osteogenic stimulation than Lepidium sativum extract and GER, respectively. Conclusions: Overall, this study expands the knowledge on the possible application of Brassica-derived bioactive molecules as natural alternatives for the prevention and treatment of bone-loss pathologies.

Non-hallucinogenic compounds derived from iboga alkaloids alleviate neuropathic and visceral pain in mice through a mechanism involving 5-HT2A receptor activation

The aim of this study was to determine the anti-hypersensitivity activity of novel non-hallucinogenic compounds derived from iboga alkaloids (i.e., ibogalogs), including tabernanthalog (TBG), ibogainalog (IBG), and ibogaminalog (DM506), using mouse models of neuropathic (Chronic Constriction Injury; CCI) and visceral pain (dextrane sulfate sodium; DSS). Ibogalogs decreased mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia induced by CCI in a dose- and timeframe-dependent manner, where IBG showed the longest anti-hyperalgesic activity at a comparatively lower dose, whereas DM506 displayed the quickest response. These compounds also decreased hypersensitivity induced by colitis, where DM506 showed the longest activity. To understand the mechanisms involved in these effects, two approaches were utilized: ibogalogs were challenged with the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin and the pharmacological activity of these compounds was assessed at the respective 5-HT2A, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7 receptor subtypes. The behavioral results clearly demonstrated that ketanserin abolishes the pain-relieving activity of ibogalogs without inducing any effect per se, supporting the concept that 5-HT2A receptor activation, but not inhibition, is involved in this process. The functional results showed that ibogalogs potently activate the 5-HT2A and 5-HT6 receptor subtypes, whereas they behave as inverse agonists (except TBG) at the 5-HT7 receptor. Considering previous studies showing that 5-HT6 receptor inhibition, but not activation, and 5-HT7 receptor activation, but not inhibition, relieved chronic pain, we can discard these two receptor subtypes as participating in the pain-relieving activity of ibogalogs. The potential involvement of 5-HT2B/2 C receptor subtypes was also ruled out. In conclusion, the anti-hypersensitivity activity of ibogalogs in mice is mediated by a mechanism involving 5-HT2A receptor activation.

Serotonin-Mediated Anti-Allodynic Effect of Yokukansan on Diabetes-Induced Neuropathic Pain

Background: Diabetic neuropathic pain is a known complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and results from the complex interaction of various factors affecting the nervous system. Yokuansan (YKS) is a versatile traditional Japanese herbal medicine with a wide range of applications, especially in pain management and neurological manifestations. YKS has analgesic properties for nerve damage and is a potential treatment for DM-induced neuropathic pain, especially in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Thus, we examined the anti-allodynic effect of YKS on DM-induced neuropathic pain. Methods: All experiments were performed on 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. DM and diabetic neuropathy were induced in rats with streptozotocin. Mechanical allodynia was assessed using dynamic plantar esthesiometry. Additionally, we conducted an immunological assessment of microglia cell changes in the spinal cord and an experiment to clarify the involvement of serotonin. Results: Diabetes significantly reduced withdrawal thresholds in rats during the initial two weeks of the experiment, which stabilized thereafter. However, this effect was not investigated in the control group. We assessed, using the dynamic plantar test, the anti-allodynic effects of orally administered YKS (1 g/kg). Daily YKS administration significantly increased the withdrawal threshold in DM animals. Additionally, oral YKS reduced the expression of Ibal-1-positive microglia. To elucidate the mechanism of action of YKS, we explored the involvement of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) receptors in mediating its effects. Intrathecal administration of 5-HT receptor antagonists (WAY-100635, ketanserin, and ondansetron) inhibited the protective effects of YKS. Conclusions: YKS exhibited an anti-allodynic effect, suggesting that YKS may activate 5-HT receptors in the spinal cord, thereby alleviating diabetic neuropathic pain.

The Efficacy of Camelina sativa Defatted Seed Meal against Colitis-Induced Persistent Visceral Hypersensitivity: The Relevance of PPAR α Receptor Activation in Pain Relief

Brassicaceae are natural sources of bioactive compounds able to promote gut health. Belonging to this plant family, Camelina sativa is an ancient oil crop rich in glucosinolates, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants that is attracting renewed attention for its nutraceutical potential. This work aimed at investigating the therapeutic effects of a defatted seed meal (DSM) of Camelina sativa on the colon damage and the persistent visceral hypersensitivity associated with colitis in rats. Inflammation was induced by the intrarectal injection of 2,4-dinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (DNBS). The acute administration of Camelina sativa DSM (0.1–1 g kg⁻¹) showed a dose-dependent pain-relieving effect in DNBS-treated rats. The efficacy of the meal was slightly enhanced after bioactivation with myrosinase, which increased isothiocyanate availability, and drastically decreased by pre-treating the animals with the selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR α) receptor antagonist GW6471. Repeated treatments with Camelina sativa DSM (1 g kg⁻¹) meal counteracted the development, as well as the persistence, of visceral hyperalgesia in DNBS-treated animals by reducing the intestinal inflammatory damage and preventing enteric neuron damage. In conclusion, Camelina sativa meal might be employed as a nutraceutical tool to manage persistent abdominal pain in patients and to promote gut healing.

Inhibitors of Mitochondrial Human Carbonic Anhydrases VA and VB as a Therapeutic Strategy against Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Mice

Neuropathy development is a major dose-limiting side effect of anticancer treatments that significantly reduces patient's quality of life. The inadequate pharmacological approaches for neuropathic pain management warrant the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Mitochondrial dysfunctions that lead to reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase, cytosolic Ca²⁺ imbalance, and lactate acidosis are implicated in neuropathic pain pathogenesis. It has been observed that in these deregulations, a pivotal role is played by the mitochondrial carbonic anhydrases (CA) VA and VB isoforms. Hence, preclinical studies should be conducted to assess the efficacy of two novel selenides bearing benzenesulfonamide moieties, named 5b and 5d, and able to inhibit CA VA and VB against paclitaxel-induced neurotoxicity in mice. Acute treatment with 5b and 5d (30-100 mg/kg, per os - p.o.) determined a dose-dependent and long-lasting anti-hyperalgesic effect in the Cold plate test. Further, repeated daily treatment for 15 days with 100 mg/kg of both compounds (starting the first day of paclitaxel injection) significantly prevented neuropathic pain development without the onset of tolerance to the anti-hyperalgesic effect. In both experiments, acetazolamide (AAZ, 100 mg/kg, p.o.) used as the reference drug was partially active. Moreover, ex vivo analysis demonstrated the efficacy of 5b and 5d repeated treatments in reducing the maladaptive plasticity that occurs to glia cells in the lumbar portion of the spinal cord and in improving mitochondrial functions in the brain and spinal cord that were strongly impaired by paclitaxel-repeated treatment. In this regard, 5b and 5d ameliorated the metabolic activity, as observed by the increase in citrate synthase activity, and preserved an optimal mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ) value, which appeared depolarized in brains from paclitaxel-treated animals. In conclusion, 5b and 5d have therapeutic and protective effects against paclitaxel-induced neuropathy without tolerance development. Moreover, 5b and 5d reduced glial cell activation and mitochondrial dysfunction in the central nervous system, being a promising candidate for the management of neuropathic pain and neurotoxicity evoked by chemotherapeutic drugs.

Cardiovascular benefits of Eruca sativa mill. Defatted seed meal extract: Potential role of hydrogen sulfide

Eruca sativa Mill. is an edible plant belonging to the Brassicaceae botanical family with a long story as a medicinal material, mainly linked to the presence of glucoerucin. One of the main products of this glucosinolate is erucin, a biologicallly active isothiocyanate recently recognized as a hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) donor. In this work, an Eruca sativa extract has been obtained from a defatted seed meal (DSM), achieving a powder rich in thiofunctionalized glucosinolates, glucoerucin, and glucoraphanin, accounting for 95% and 5% of the total glucosinolate content (17% on a dry weight basis), associated with 13 identified phenolic acids and flavonoids accounting for 2.5%. In a cell‐free model, Eruca sativa DSM extract slowly released H₂S. Moreover, this extract promoted significant hypotensive effects in hypertensive rats, and evoked dose‐dependent cardioprotection in in vivo model of acute myocardial infarct, obtained through a reversible coronary occlusion. This latter effect was sensitive to blockers of mitochondrial KATP and Kv7.4 potassium channels, suggesting a potential role of these mitochondrial channels in the protective effects of Eruca sativa DSM extract. Accordingly, Eruca sativa DSM extract reduced calcium uptake and apoptotic cell death in isolated cardiac mitochondria. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Eruca sativa DSM extract is endowed with an interesting nutraceutical profile on the cardiovascular system due to, at least in part, its H₂S releasing properties. These results pave the way for future investigations on active metabolites.

Correlation of Glucosinolates and Volatile Constituents of Six Brassicaceae Seeds with Their Antioxidant Activities Based on Partial Least Squares Regression

Brassicaceae comprises various species representing an economically important source of industrial or pharmaceutical crops. The present study aimed to identify glucosinolates (GSLs) and volatile compounds in six Brassicaceae seeds cultivated in Egypt. An (High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array) HPLC–PDA analysis of GSLs in the alcoholic extracts of Raphanus raphanistrum L. (Rr), Raphanus sativus L. (Rs), Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. (Boc), Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L. (Bob), Brassica rapa L. (Br), and Eruca sativa L. (Es) was carried out using a mixture of 23 standard GSLs. Nineteen GSLs were detected in the studied seeds. Rs had the highest GSL content (135.66 μmol/g Dry weight, DW), while Boc had the lowest GSL content (93.66 μmol/g DW). Glucobrassicin was the major identified compound in Rr, Rs, and Bob. Its highest content was in Rs (28.96 μmol/g DW). Sinigrin was the major identified GSL in Boc (18.02 μmol/g DW), although present with higher content in Bob (22.02 μmol/g DW). Neoglucobrassicin was the major GSL in Br (30.98 μmol/g DW), while glucoerucin was the major GSL in Es (17.84 μmol/g DW). The yields of the steam-distilled oils of the studied seeds ranged between 3.25 ± 0.36 and 9.68 ± 0.25% v/w. A GC–MS analysis of the oils could detect 3, 23, 18, 16, 7, and 9 compounds in Rr, Rs, Boc, Bob, Br, and Es oils, respectively. Sulfur and nitrogenous compounds predominated in all studied oils except Rs, which contained a higher percentage of alkanes. The major identified compound in Rr oil was 4-isothiocyanato-1-(methylthio)-1-butene (94.77 ± 1.25%), while in Br it was 3-butenyl isothiocyanate (69.55 ± 1.02%), thiolane in Rs (15.15 ± 0.22%), and erucin in Es (97.02 ± 1.514%). Both Boc and Bob had the same major compound 4-(methylthio) butanenitrile, which represented 40.35 ± 1.15 and 50.52 ± 1.02% in both oils, respectively. Radical scavenging activity for both GSL extracts and essential oils on DPPH radical ranged between 18.01 ± 0.72 and 114.28 ± 1.15 µg/mL (IC50). The highest antioxidant capacity was for Es oil, while the lowest one was for Rr oil. Generally, it was observed that the GSLs had better antioxidant activity than their corresponding essential oils except for Es oil, which had higher activity. A principal component analysis (PCA) was successfully applied to discriminate among six Brassicaceae seeds based on both HPLC and GC–MS, where complete segregation was achieved among all samples with high correlation between Boc and Bob. Partial Least Squares-Regression (PLS-R) models showed that there is a better correlation between the antioxidant activity and glucosinolate profile when being compared to that of a volatile one. This profiling and variation of GSLs and volatile metabolites of the studied Brassicaceae seeds may be employed in further studies regarding their health-promoting properties.

Sulfur compounds: From plants to humans and their role in chronic disease prevention

Sulfur is essential for the health of plants and is an indispensable dietary component for human health and disease prevention. Its incorporation into our food supply is heavily reliant upon the uptake of sulfur into plant tissue and our subsequent intake. Dietary requirements for sulfur are largely calculated based upon requirements for the sulfur-containing amino acids (SAA), cysteine and methionine, to meet the demands for synthesis of proteins, enzymes, co-enzymes, vitamins, and hormones. SAA are found in abundance in animal sources and are relatively low in plants. However, some plants, particularly cruciferous and allium vegetables, produce many protective sulfur-containing secondary metabolites, such as glucosinolates and cysteine sulfoxides. The variety and quantity of these sulfur-containing metabolites are extensive and their effects on human health are wide-reaching. Many benefits appear to be related to sulfur's role in redox biochemistry, protecting against uncontrolled oxidative stress and inflammation; features consistent within cardiometabolic dysfunction and many chronic metabolic diseases of aging. This narrative explores the origins and importance of sulfur, its incorporation into our food supply and dietary sources. It also explores the overarching potential of sulfur for human health, particularly around the amelioration of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and subsequent chronic disease prevention.

Beneficial Effects of Eruca sativa Defatted Seed Meal on Visceral Pain and Intestinal Damage Resulting from Colitis in Rats

Most therapies used in patients affected by inflammatory bowel diseases are ineffective in preventing the development of chronic visceral hypersensitivity, mainly due to inflammation-induced enteric neuroplasticity. Glucosinolates, secondary metabolites mainly of Brassicaceae with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, are effective in treating both neuropathic and arthritis pain through H₂S release and Kv7 potassium channel activation. The aim of this work was to investigate the protective and anti-hyperalgesic efficacy of a defatted seed meal from Eruca sativa Mill. (Brassicaceae), rich in glucosinolates, in a rat model of colitis induced by 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS). The mechanisms of action were also investigated. Visceral pain was assessed by measuring the abdominal response to colorectal distension. Fifteen days after colitis induction, the acute administration of E. sativa defatted seed meal (0.1–1 g kg⁻¹ p.o.) dose-dependently relieved pain. This effect was hampered by co-administering an H₂S scavenger or a selective Kv7 blocker. Administering E. sativa (1 g kg⁻¹) for 14 days, starting after DNBS injection, contributed to counteracting visceral pain persistence in the post-inflammatory phase of colitis by promoting colon healing from the damage and reducing enteric gliosis. E. sativa defatted seed meal might be employed as a nutraceutical tool for supporting abdominal pain relief in patients.

Dietary organosulfur compounds: Emerging players in the regulation of bone homeostasis by plant-derived molecules

The progressive decline of bone mass and the deterioration of bone microarchitecture are hallmarks of the bone aging. The resulting increase in bone fragility is the leading cause of bone fractures, a major cause of disability. As the frontline pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis suffer from low patients' adherence and occasional side effects, the importance of diet regimens for the prevention of excessive bone fragility has been increasingly recognized. Indeed, certain diet components have been already associated to a reduced fracture risk. Organosulfur compounds are a broad class of molecules containing sulfur. Among them, several molecules of potential therapeutic interest are found in edible plants belonging to the Allium and Brassica botanical genera. Polysulfides derived from Alliaceae and isothiocyanates derived from Brassicaceae hold remarkable nutraceutical potential as anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, vasorelaxant and hypolipemic. Some of these effects are linked to the ability to release the gasotrasmitter hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). Recent preclinical studies have investigated the effect of organosulfur compounds in bone wasting and metabolic bone diseases, revealing a strong potential to preserve skeletal health by exerting cytoprotection and stimulating the bone forming activity by osteoblasts and attenuating bone resorption by osteoclasts. This review is intended for revising evidence from preclinical and epidemiological studies on the skeletal effects of organosulfur molecules of dietary origin, with emphasis on the direct regulation of bone cells by plant-derived polysulfides, glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. Moreover, we highlight the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the biological role of these compounds and revise the importance of the so-called 'H₂S-system' on the regulation of bone homeostasis.

Glucosinolate Bioactivation by Apis mellifera Workers and Its Impact on Nosema ceranae Infection at the Colony Level

The microsporidian fungus Nosema ceranae represents one of the primary bee infection threats worldwide and the antibiotic fumagillin is the only registered product for nosemosis disease control, while few alternatives are, at present, available. Natural bioactive compounds deriving from the glucosinolate-myrosinase system (GSL-MYR) in Brassicaceae plants, mainly isothiocyanates (ITCs), are known for their antimicrobial activity against numerous pathogens and for their health-protective effects in humans. This work explored the use of Brassica nigra and Eruca sativa defatted seed meal (DSM) GSL-containing diets against natural Nosema infection in Apis mellifera colonies. DSM patties from each plant species were obtained by adding DSMs to sugar candy at the concentration of 4% (w/w). The feeding was administered in May to mildly N. ceranae-infected honey bee colonies for four weeks at the dose of 250 g/week. In the treated groups, no significant effects on colony development and bee mortality were observed compared to the negative controls. The N. ceranae abundance showed a slight but significant decrease. Furthermore, the GSL metabolism in bees was investigated, and MYR hydrolytic activity was qualitatively searched in isolated bee midgut and hindgut. Interestingly, MYR activity was detected both in the bees fed DSMs and in the control group where the bees did not receive DSMs. In parallel, ITCs were found in gut tissues from the bees treated with DSMs, corroborating the presence of a MYR-like enzyme capable of hydrolyzing ingested GSLs. On the other hand, GSLs and other GSL hydrolysis products other than ITCs, such as nitriles, were found in honey produced by the treated bees, potentially increasing the health value of the final product for human consumption. The results are indicative of a specific effect on the N. ceranae infection in managed honey bee colonies depending on the GSL activation within the target organ.

Effect of bioactive compounds released from Brassicaceae defatted seed meals on bacterial load in pig manure

Animal manure application to soils is considered to be one of the main cause of antibiotic and bacterial pathogen spread in the environment. Pig livestock, which is the source of one of the most used fertilizer for cultivated land, is also a hotspot for antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Besides harsh chemical and physical sanitization treatments for the abatement of antibiotics and bacterial load in livestock waste, more sustainable and environmentally friendly strategies need to be considered. In this context, the use of natural substances which are proved useful for pest and disease control is currently under exploration for their role in the reduction of bacterial pathogen population. Among these, plants and derived products from the Brassicaceae family, characterized by the presence of a defensive glucosinolate-myrosinase enzymatic system, have been successfully exploited for years in agriculture using the so-called biofumigation technique against crop diseases. Although the application of biofumigation to suppress a range of soil borne pests has been well documented, no studies have been examined to reduce bacterial population in animal waste. In the present study, the release and the antibacterial activity of bioactive compounds deriving from different Brassicaceae defatted seed meals against pathogens and bacterial population in pig manure is addressed. Rapistrum rugosum and Brassica nigra defatted seed meals were found to be the most active products against tested pathogens and able to significantly reduce the bacterial load in the manure.

VEGF-A/VEGFR-1 signalling and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain: therapeutic potential of a novel anti-VEGFR-1 monoclonal antibody

BACKGROUND

Neuropathic pain is a clinically relevant adverse effect of several anticancer drugs that markedly impairs patients' quality of life and frequently leads to dose reduction or therapy discontinuation. The poor knowledge about the mechanisms involved in neuropathy development and pain chronicization, and the lack of effective therapies, make treatment of chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain an unmet medical need. In this context, the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) has emerged as a candidate neuropathy hallmark and its decrease has been related to pain relief. In the present study, we have investigated the role of VEGF-A and its receptors, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, in pain signalling and in chemotherapy-induced neuropathy establishment as well as the therapeutic potential of receptor blockade in the management of pain.

METHODS

Behavioural and electrophysiological analyses were performed in an in vivo murine model, by using selective receptor agonists, blocking monoclonal antibodies or siRNA-mediated silencing of VEGF-A and VEGFRs. Expression of VEGF-A and VEGFR-1 in astrocytes and neurons was detected by immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy analysis.

RESULTS

In mice, the intrathecal infusion of VEGF-A (VEGF165 isoforms) induced a dose-dependent noxious hypersensitivity and this effect was mediated by VEGFR-1. Consistently, electrophysiological studies indicated that VEGF-A strongly stimulated the spinal nociceptive neurons activity through VEGFR-1. In the dorsal horn of the spinal cord of animals affected by oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy, VEGF-A expression was increased in astrocytes while VEGFR-1 was mainly detected in neurons, suggesting a VEGF-A/VEGFR-1-mediated astrocyte-neuron cross-talk in neuropathic pain pathophysiology. Accordingly, the selective knockdown of astrocytic VEGF-A by intraspinal injection of shRNAmir blocked the development of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic hyperalgesia and allodynia. Interestingly, both intrathecal and systemic administration of the novel anti-VEGFR-1 monoclonal antibody D16F7, endowed with anti-angiogenic and antitumor properties, reverted oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain. Besides, D16F7 effectively relieved hypersensitivity induced by other neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents, such as paclitaxel and vincristine.

CONCLUSIONS

These data strongly support the role of the VEGF-A/VEGFR-1 system in mediating chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain at the central nervous system level. Thus, treatment with the anti-VEGFR-1 mAb D16F7, besides exerting antitumor activity, might result in the additional advantage of attenuating neuropathic pain when combined with neurotoxic anticancer agents.

Seed Meals from Brassica nigra and Eruca sativa Control Artificial Nosema ceranae Infections in Apis mellifera

Nosema ceranae is a widespread parasite responsible for nosemosis Type C in Apis mellifera honey bees, reducing colony survival. The antibiotic fumagillin is the only commercial treatment available, but concerns are emerging about its persistence, safety, and pathogen resistance. The use of natural substances from Brassicaceae defatted seed meals (DSMs) with known antimicrobial and antioxidant properties was explored. Artificially infected bees were fed for 8 days with candies enriched with two concentrations, 2% and 4%, of two DSMs from Brassica nigra and Eruca sativa, containing a known amount of different glucosinolates (GSLs). The food palatability, GSL intake, bee survival, and treatment effects on N. ceranae spore counts were evaluated. Food consumption was higher for the two 2% DSM patties, for both B. nigra and E. sativa, but the GSL intake did not increase by increasing DSM to 4%, due to the resulting lower palatability. The 2% B. nigra patty decreased the bee mortality, while the higher concentration had a toxic effect. The N. ceranae control was significant for all formulates with respect to the untreated control (312,192.6 +/- 14,443.4 s.e.), and was higher for 4% B. nigra (120,366.3 +/- 13,307.1 s.e.). GSL hydrolysis products, the isothiocyanates, were detected and quantified in bee gut tissues. Brassicaceae DSMs showed promising results for their nutraceutical and protective effects on bees artificially infected with N. ceranae spores at the laboratory level. Trials in the field should confirm these results.

Flaxseed and Camelina Meals as Potential Sources of Health-Beneficial Compounds

Seed meals and cakes, deriving from minor oilseed crops, represent interesting co-products for the presence of a high content of proteins and bioactive compounds that could be successfully explored as valuable plant-derived feedstocks for food and non-food purposes. In this contest, flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) and camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) are becoming increasingly important in the health food market as functional foods and cosmetic ingredients. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of genetic characteristics and cultivation sites on the chemical features of seed meals deriving from two flaxseed varieties (Sideral and Buenos Aires) and a camelina cultivar (Italia), cultivated in Central and Northern Italy (Pisa and Bologna). The content of total phenols and flavonoids, seed oil, proteins and fatty acids have been evaluated, together with the chemical profiles of flaxseed and camelina meals. In addition, radical-scavenging activity has been investigated. All the examined seed meals resulted as rich in bioactive compounds. In particular, flaxseed meal is a good source of the lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) and hydroxycinnamic acid glucosides, while camelina meal contains glucosinolates and quercetin glycosides. Furthermore, all extracts exhibited a very strong radical-scavenging activity, that make these plant-derived products interesting sources for food or cosmetic ingredients with health outcomes.

(E)-3-Furan-2-yl-N-p-tolyl-acrylamide and its Derivative DM489 Decrease Neuropathic Pain in Mice Predominantly by α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Potentiation

The main objective of this study was to determine whether (E)-3-furan-2-yl-N-p-tolyl-acrylamide (PAM-2) and its structural derivative DM489 produce anti-neuropathic pain activity using the streptozotocin (STZ)- and oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain animal models. To assess possible mechanisms of action, the pharmacological activity of these compounds was determined at α7 and α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and Ca_V2.2 channels expressed alone or coexpressed with G protein-coupled GABA_B receptors. The animal results indicated that a single dose of 3 mg/kg PAM-2 or DM489 decreases STZ-induced neuropathic pain in mice, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain is decreased by PAM-2 (3 mg/kg) and DM489 (10 mg/kg). The observed anti-neuropathic pain activity was inhibited by the α7-selective antagonist methyllycaconitine. The coadministration of oxaliplatin with an inactive dose (1 mg/kg) of PAM-2 decreased the development of neuropathic pain after 14, but not 7, days of cotreatment. The electrophysiological results indicated that PAM-2 potentiates human (h) and rat (r) α7 nAChRs with 2-7 times higher potency than that for hCa_V2.2 channel inhibition and an even greater difference compared to that for rα9α10 nAChR inhibition. These results support the notion that α7 nAChR potentiation is likely the predominant molecular mechanism underlying the observed anti-nociceptive pain activity of these compounds.

Eruca sativa Mill. seed extract promotes anti-obesity and hypoglycemic effects in mice fed with a high-fat diet

Obesity is currently considered a major source of morbidity, with dramatic complications on health status and life expectancy. Several studies demonstrated the positive effects of Brassicaceae vegetables on obesity and related diseases, partially attributing these beneficial properties to glucosinolates and their derivatives isothiocyanates. Recently, isothiocyanates have been described as a hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S)-releasing moiety, suggesting that H₂ S may be at least in part responsible for the beneficial effects of Brassicaceae. In this work, the metabolic effects of an extract obtained from Eruca sativa Mill. seeds (E.S., Brassicaceae), containing high levels of glucoerucin, were evaluated in an experimental model of obesity. Male balb/c mice were fed for 10 weeks with standard (Std) diet or high fat (HF) diet supplemented with E.S. E.S. significantly contained the body weight gain in this obesity model, improving also glucose homeostasis. Interestingly, lower values of white adipose tissue mass and a significant reduction of adipocytes size were also observed. Moreover, E.S. enhanced the adipocytes metabolism, improving the citrate synthase activity and reduced triglyceride levels in mice fed with HF diet. Taken together, these results suggest that E.S. is endowed with an interesting translational and nutraceutical value in the prevention of metabolic disorders, suggesting that H₂ S could be a key player.

Effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermented Broths Enriched with Eruca sativa Seed Extracts on Intestinal Barrier and Inflammation in a Co-Culture System of an Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli and Human Intestinal Cells

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) “fermentates” confer a beneficial effect on intestinal function. However, the ability of new fermentations to improve LAB broth activity in preventing pathogen-induced intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction has not yet been studied. The objective of this study was to determine if broths of LAB fermented with Eruca sativa or Barbarea verna seed extracts prevent gut barrier dysfunction and interleukin-8 (CXCL8) release in vitro in human intestinal Caco-2 cells infected with enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7. LAB broths were assayed for their effects on EHEC growth and on Caco-2 viability; thereafter, their biological properties were analysed in a co-culture system consisting of EHEC and Caco-2 cells. Caco-2 cells infected with EHEC significantly increased CXCL8 release, and decreased Trans-Epithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER), a barrier-integrity marker. Notably, when Caco-2 cells were treated with LAB broth enriched with E. sativa seed extract and thereafter infected, both CXCL8 expression and epithelial dysfunction reduced compared to in untreated cells. These results underline the beneficial effect of broths from LAB fermented with E. sativa seed extracts in gut barrier and inflammation after EHEC infection and reveal that these LAB broths can be used as functional bioactive compounds to regulate intestinal function.

Molecular targets in cancer prevention by 4-(methylthio)butyl isothiocyanate - A comprehensive review

The consumption of cruciferous vegetables rich in isothiocyanates has long been associated with a reduced risk of various types of cancer. 4-(methylthio)butyl isothiocyanate also called erucin is an isothiocyanate present in appreciable quantity in the seeds of Eruca sativa Mill. plant. Although the literature has revealed its protective effects via inducing phase II enzymes and inhibiting carcinogen activating phase I enzymes, recent studies also suggest that, it inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells by altering the telomerase activity, dynamics of microtubules, expression of histone deacetylases, and other molecular pathways. With this in mind, the emphasis has been made to review the molecular targets involved in cancer prevention by 4-(methylthio)butyl isothiocyanate.

In-Depth Characterisation of Common Bean Diversity Discloses Its Breeding Potential for Sustainable Agriculture

Legumes’ cultivation contributes services to agro-ecosystems and society, in line with the principles of sustainability. Among pulses, the common bean is one of the most important sources of plant proteins and other important nutrients for humans. Extensive phenotypic and genetic characterisations of unexplored bean germplasm are still needed to unlock its breeding potential. To the purpose, a panel of 192 diverse genotypes, mainly developed starting from European landrace accessions, was characterised for relevant morpho-phenological traits; a partially replicated experimental design was used. For each quantitative trait, Best Linear Unbiased Predictors and broad-sense heritability were estimated. The screened panel revealed a high level of diversity for most of the measured traits, especially for days to flowering and hundred-seed weight. The same material was also characterised by means of double-digest Restriction-site Associated DNA; a high number of SNP markers were successfully produced. The genotyping allowed understanding the fine genetic structure of the panel. Genetic information was also used to study morpho-phenological traits considering different genetic groups existing within the panel. At the same time, genotypes characterised by favourable traits were identified. The availability of such collection with its extensive characterisation, make this material an excellent resource for common bean improvement.