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Oršolić N, Jazvinšćak Jembrek M. Royal Jelly: Biological Action and Health Benefits. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6023. [PMID: 38892209 PMCID: PMC11172503 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a highly nutritious natural product with great potential for use in medicine, cosmetics, and as a health-promoting food. This bee product is a mixture of important compounds, such as proteins, vitamins, lipids, minerals, hormones, neurotransmitters, flavonoids, and polyphenols, that underlie the remarkable biological and therapeutic activities of RJ. Various bioactive molecules like 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), antibacterial protein, apisin, the major royal jelly proteins, and specific peptides such as apisimin, royalisin, royalactin, apidaecin, defensin-1, and jelleins are characteristic ingredients of RJ. RJ shows numerous physiological and pharmacological properties, including vasodilatory, hypotensive, antihypercholesterolaemic, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, estrogenic, anti-allergic, anti-osteoporotic, and anti-tumor effects. Moreover, RJ may reduce menopause symptoms and improve the health of the reproductive system, liver, and kidneys, and promote wound healing. This article provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of RJ in various diseases, aging, and aging-related complications, with special emphasis on the bioactive components of RJ and their health-promoting properties. The data presented should be an incentive for future clinical studies that hopefully will advance our knowledge about the therapeutic potential of RJ and facilitate the development of novel RJ-based therapeutic opportunities for improving human health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Oršolić
- Division of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Jazvinšćak Jembrek
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory for Protein Dynamics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of Croatia, Ilica 242, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Balan A, Moga MA, Neculau AE, Mitrica M, Rogozea L, Ifteni P, Dima L. Royal Jelly and Fermented Soy Extracts-A Holistic Approach to Menopausal Symptoms That Increase the Quality of Life in Pre- and Post-menopausal Women: An Observational Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:649. [PMID: 38474777 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine the effects of royal jelly and fermented soy extracts on menopausal symptoms and on quality of life in pre- and post-menopausal women. MATERIALS AND METHOD This prospective observational study was carried out in a Clinical Hospital of Brasov, Romania, during June 2020 and December 2021. Eighty pre- and post-menopausal women, aged between 45 and 60 years, were included in two groups. The first group (40 women) received a dietary supplement with fermented soy extract twice a day for eight weeks and the second group (40 women) received the same dietary supplement with fermented soy extracts and 1500 mg of royal jelly capsules for eight weeks. After the treatment, the MENQOL score, DASS-21 score, and the mean number and intensity of daily hot flushes were recorded and compared with baseline values. RESULTS After eight weeks of treatment, the score of the MENQOL questionnaire and all its domains' scores decreased in comparison with the baseline in both groups (p < 0.001). Also, the DASS-21 score (p < 0.001), depression score (p < 0.001), anxiety score (p < 0.001), and stress score (p < 0.001) improved. The mean number and the intensity of hot flushes decreased in both groups (p < 0.001). Comparing these variables after the treatment in both groups, we observed that the women who received dietary supplements with fermented soy extracts and royal jelly capsules recorded better scores for MENQOL (vasomotor, physical, and psychosocial domains) and a more reduced mean number of daily hot flushes. CONCLUSIONS This observational study suggests that both dietary fermented soy supplements and royal jelly capsules possess beneficial effects against menopausal symptoms, increase the quality of life in pre- and post-menopausal women, and that the effects might be significantly improved if those dietary supplements are administered in association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Balan
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Maria Mitrica
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Liliana Rogozea
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Petru Ifteni
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brașov, Romania
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El-Seedi HR, Salama S, El-Wahed AAA, Guo Z, Di Minno A, Daglia M, Li C, Guan X, Buccato DG, Khalifa SAM, Wang K. Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Royal Jelly in Metabolic Disorders and Gastrointestinal Diseases. Nutrients 2024; 16:393. [PMID: 38337678 PMCID: PMC10856930 DOI: 10.3390/nu16030393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders, encompassing diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, etc., pose a substantial global health threat, with rising morbidity and mortality rates. Addressing these disorders is crucial, as conventional drugs often come with high costs and adverse effects. This review explores the potential of royal jelly (RJ), a natural bee product rich in bioactive components, as an alternative strategy for managing metabolic diseases. RJ exhibits diverse therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, estrogen-like, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. This review's focus is on investigating how RJ and its components impact conditions like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Evidence suggests that RJ serves as a complementary treatment for various health issues, notably demonstrating cholesterol- and glucose-lowering effects in diabetic rats. Specific RJ-derived metabolites, such as 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), also known as the "Queen bee acid," show promise in reducing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Recent research highlights RJ's role in modulating immune responses, enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and suppressing key inflammatory mediators. Despite these promising findings, further research is needed to comprehensively understand the mechanisms underlying RJ's therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham R. El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Biomedical Centre, P.O. Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-Products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 210024, China
| | - Suzy Salama
- Indigenous Knowledge and Heritage Center, Ghibaish College of Science and Technology, Ghibaish 51111, Sudan;
| | - Aida A. Abd El-Wahed
- Department of Bee Research, Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Giza 12627, Egypt;
| | - Zhiming Guo
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
| | - Alessandro Di Minno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Daglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Chuan Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
| | - Xiao Guan
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China;
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Daniele Giuseppe Buccato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
| | - Shaden A. M. Khalifa
- Psychiatry and Neurology Department, Capio Saint Göran’s Hospital, Sankt Göransplan 1, 112 19 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
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Baptista BG, Lima LS, Ribeiro M, Britto IK, Alvarenga L, Kemp JA, Cardozo LFMF, Berretta AA, Mafra D. Royal jelly: a predictive, preventive and personalised strategy for novel treatment options in non-communicable diseases. EPMA J 2023; 14:381-404. [PMID: 37605655 PMCID: PMC10439876 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-023-00330-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a bee product produced by young adult worker bees, composed of water, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, rich in bioactive components with therapeutic properties, such as free fatty acids, mainly 10-hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic acid (10-H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10-HDA), and major royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), as well as flavonoids, most flavones and flavonols, hormones, vitamins and minerals. In vitro, non-clinical and clinical studies have confirmed its vital role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This narrative review discusses the possible effects of royal jelly on preventing common complications of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal dysbiosis, from the viewpoint of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine (PPPM/3PM). It is concluded that RJ, predictively, can be used as a non-pharmacological therapy to prevent and mitigate complications related to NCDs, and the treatment must be personalised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz G. Baptista
- Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Ligia S. Lima
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Marcia Ribeiro
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Isadora K. Britto
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Livia Alvarenga
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Julie A. Kemp
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Ludmila FMF Cardozo
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Andresa A. Berretta
- Research, Development, and Innovation Department, Apis Flora Indl. Coml. Ltda, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Denise Mafra
- Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
- Unidade de Pesquisa Clínica, UPC, Rua Marquês de Paraná, 303/4 Andar, Niterói, RJ 24033-900 Brazil
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Li S, Tao L, Peng S, Yu X, Ma X, Hu F. Structural and antioxidative properties of royal jelly protein by partial enzymatic hydrolysis. FOOD SCIENCE AND HUMAN WELLNESS 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fshw.2023.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Hanai R, Matsushita H, Minami A, Abe Y, Tachibana R, Watanabe K, Takeuchi H, Wakatsuki A. Effects of 10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic Acid and 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid in Royal Jelly on Bone Metabolism in Ovariectomized Rats: A Pilot Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5309. [PMID: 37629354 PMCID: PMC10456009 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Although previous studies have demonstrated that royal jelly (RJ) may have estrogenic properties and prevent postmenopausal bone loss, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This animal study aimed to investigate the effects of specific fatty acids of RJ, 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10HDAA), in ovariectomized rats. Ten-week-old female Wistar rats were divided into the Baseline, Sham, Ovx, Ovx + 10H2DA, and Ovx + 10HDAA groups. Rats in the Baseline group were sacrificed immediately, whereas those in the other groups were subjected to either a sham operation or bilateral ovariectomy. The animals in the Ovx + 10H2DA and Ovx + 10HDAA groups were fed diets containing 10H2DA and 10HDAA, respectively. Twelve weeks after surgery, the rats were sacrificed, and indices of bone mass and bone mechanics were analyzed. Femoral bone mineral density was significantly lower in the Ovx group than in the Sham group (p < 0.01). Administration of 10H2DA or 10HDAA did not ameliorate bone loss after ovariectomy. In addition, administration of these fatty acids diminished femur bone stiffness in ovariectomized rats (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). These findings suggest that the favorable effects of RJ may not be exerted solely by 10H2DA or 10HDAA. However, these effects may be exhibited in combination with other RJ constituents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Hanai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute 480-1195, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Matsushita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute 480-1195, Aichi, Japan
| | - Akira Minami
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Yuki Abe
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Rika Tachibana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute 480-1195, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kazushi Watanabe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute 480-1195, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Takeuchi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Akihiko Wakatsuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute 480-1195, Aichi, Japan
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Bagameri L, Botezan S, Bobis O, Bonta V, Dezmirean DS. Molecular Insights into Royal Jelly Anti-Inflammatory Properties and Related Diseases. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1573. [PMID: 37511948 PMCID: PMC10381546 DOI: 10.3390/life13071573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ), a highly nutritious natural product, has gained recognition for its remarkable health-promoting properties, leading to its widespread use in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Extensive investigations have revealed that RJ possesses a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, anti-aging, and antibacterial activities. Distinctive among bee products, RJ exhibits a significantly higher water and relatively lower sugar content. It is characterized by its substantial protein content, making it a valuable source of this essential macronutrient. Moreover, RJ contains a diverse array of bioactive substances, such as lipids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, organic acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and hormones. This review aims to provide an overview of current research on the bioactive components present in RJ and their associated health-promoting qualities. According to existing literature, these bioactive substances hold great potential as alternative approaches to enhancing human health. Notably, this review emphasizes the anti-inflammatory properties of RJ, particularly in relation to inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Furthermore, we delve into the antitumor and antioxidant activities of RJ, aiming to deepen our understanding of its biological functions. By shedding light on the multifaceted benefits of RJ, this review seeks to encourage its utilization and inspire further investigation in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilla Bagameri
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sara Botezan
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Otilia Bobis
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Victorita Bonta
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Severus Dezmirean
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Botezan S, Baci GM, Bagameri L, Pașca C, Dezmirean DS. Current Status of the Bioactive Properties of Royal Jelly: A Comprehensive Review with a Focus on Its Anticancer, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Effects. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031510. [PMID: 36771175 PMCID: PMC9921556 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) has been one of the most widely used natural products in alternative medicine for centuries. Being produced by both hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands, RJ exhibits an extraordinary complexity in terms of its composition, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, polyphenols, vitamins, and hormones. Due to its heterogeneous structure, RJ displays various functional roles for honeybees, including being involved in nutrition, learning, memory, and social behavior. Furthermore, a wide range of studies reported its therapeutic properties, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, to name a few. In this direction, there is a wide range of health-related problems for which the medical area specialists and researchers are continuously trying to find a cure, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, or infertility. For the mentioned diseases and more, it has been proven that RJ is a key player in finding a valuable treatment. In this review, the great impact of RJ as an alternative medicine agent is highlighted, with a focus on its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Moreover, we link it to its apitherapeutic potential by discussing its composition. Herein, we discuss a wide range of novel studies and present the latest research work.
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Royal Jelly Increases Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Peripheral Blood: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial in Healthy Subjects. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:7665515. [PMID: 36686976 PMCID: PMC9859695 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7665515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Royal jelly (RJ), produced by honeybees, influences stem cell functions, such as pluripotency maintenance of mouse embryonic stem cells and prevention of aging-related muscle stem cell functional deterioration. Thus, we hypothesized that RJ administration has various health-promoting effects based on stem cells. However, its effects are unknown in humans. In this study, we have attempted for the first time to clarify whether the administration of RJ in humans affects stem cells. Materials and Methods This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed on healthy subjects (n = 90) who received protease-treated RJ at a dose of 1200 mg/day or placebo daily for four weeks. Also, the participants with a low number of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in peripheral blood were preferentially selected. HSC counts, endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) counts, blood cell counts in peripheral blood, cytokines in serum, and physical conditions were evaluated. Results and Conclusion. Eligible data from 86 subjects (placebo: 42, RJ: 44) who completed the study were analyzed. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the changes in peripheral HSC count (p=0.103), while diastolic blood pressure showed a significant improvement in the RJ group compared to that in the placebo group (p=0.032). The subgroup analysis excluded 14 subjects who complained of cold symptoms at baseline or within five days of the four-week study. The changes in the HSC populations were significantly higher in the RJ group than those in the placebo group (p=0.042). No adverse effects were observed in any of the groups. These results suggest that RJ administration affected the peripheral HSC count and may influence stem cell functions. Further research is needed to reveal the various health-promoting benefits of RJ based on stem cells.
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Investigation of the lipidomic profile of royal jelly from different botanical origins using UHPLC-IM-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2022.113894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Fan P, Sha F, Ma C, Wei Q, Zhou Y, Shi J, Fu J, Zhang L, Han B, Li J. 10-Hydroxydec-2-Enoic Acid Reduces Hydroxyl Free Radical-Induced Damage to Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Rescuing Protein and Energy Metabolism. Front Nutr 2022; 9:873892. [PMID: 35711556 PMCID: PMC9196250 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.873892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
10-Hydroxydec-2-enoic acid (10-HDA), an unsaturated hydroxyl fatty acid from the natural food royal jelly, can protect against cell and tissue damage, yet the underlying mechanisms are still unexplored. We hypothesized that the neutralization of the hydroxyl free radical (•OH), the most reactive oxygen species, is an important factor underlying the cytoprotective effect of 10-HDA. In this study, we found that the •OH scavenging rate by 10-HDA (2%, g/ml) was more than 20%, which was achieved through multiple-step oxidization of the -OH group and C=C bond of 10-HDA. Moreover, 10-HDA significantly enhanced the viability of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) damaged by •OH (P < 0.01), significantly attenuated •OH-derived malondialdehyde production that represents cellular lipid peroxidation (P < 0.05), and significantly increased the glutathione levels in •OH-stressed VSMCs (P < 0.05), indicating the role of 10-HDA in reducing •OH-induced cytotoxicity. Further proteomic analyses of VSMCs identified 195 proteins with decreased expression by •OH challenge that were upregulated by 10-HDA rescue and were primarily involved in protein synthesis (such as translation, protein transport, ribosome, and RNA binding) and energy metabolism (such as fatty acid degradation and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis). Taken together, these findings indicate that 10-HDA can effectively promote cell survival by antagonizing •OH-induced injury in VSMCs. To the best of our knowledge, our results provide the first concrete evidence that 10-HDA-scavenged •OH could be a potential pharmacological application for maintaining vascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Fan
- Institute of Apicultural Research/Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China.,College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Sha
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chuan Ma
- Institute of Apicultural Research/Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaohong Wei
- Institute of Apicultural Research/Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqi Zhou
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Shi
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Fu
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bin Han
- Institute of Apicultural Research/Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianke Li
- Institute of Apicultural Research/Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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Royal Jelly as a Nutraceutical Natural Product with a Focus on Its Antibacterial Activity. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061142. [PMID: 35745715 PMCID: PMC9227439 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is one of the most valued natural products and is known for its health-promoting properties. Due to its therapeutic effects, it has been used in medicine since antiquity. Nowadays, several studies indicate that RJ acts as a powerful antimicrobial agent. Indeed, researchers shed light on its antioxidant and anticancer activity. RJ’s biological properties are related to its bioactive compounds, such as proteins, peptides, phenolic, and fatty acids. The aim of this review is to highlight recent findings on RJ’s main bioactive compounds correlated with its health-promoting properties. The available literature suggests that these bioactive compounds can be used as an alternative approach in order to enhance human health. Moreover, throughout this paper, we underline the prominent antibacterial effect of RJ against several target bacterial strains. In addition, we briefly discuss other therapeutic activities, such as antioxidative and anticancer effects, of this outstanding natural product.
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Apitherapy and Periodontal Disease: Insights into In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Studies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11050823. [PMID: 35624686 PMCID: PMC9137511 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11050823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Periodontal diseases are caused mainly by inflammation of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth or by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome, and the Global Burden of Disease study (2019) reported that periodontal disease affects 20-50% of the global population. In recent years, more preference has been given to natural therapies compared to synthetic drugs in the treatment of periodontal disease, and several oral care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and dentifrices, have been developed comprising honeybee products, such as propolis, honey, royal jelly, and purified bee venom. In this study, we systematically reviewed the literature on the treatment of periodontitis using honeybee products. A literature search was performed using various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar. A total of 31 studies were reviewed using eligibility criteria published between January 2016 and December 2021. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies (randomized clinical trials) were included. Based on the results of these studies, honeybee products, such as propolis and purified bee venom, were concluded to be effective and safe for use in the treatment of periodontitis mainly due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. However, to obtain reliable results from randomized clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of honeybee products in periodontal treatment with long-term follow-up, a broader sample size and assessment of various clinical parameters are needed.
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14
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Khan KA, Ghramh HA. Evaluation of queen cell acceptance and royal jelly production between hygienic and non-hygienic honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266145. [PMID: 35344573 PMCID: PMC8959157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey bees are crucial for pollination services globally and produce important hive products including honey, royal jelly, pollen, and propolis that are being used commercially in food, cosmetics, and alternative medicinal purposes. Among the bee products, royal jelly (RJ) has long attracted scientists' interest because of its importance in honey caste differentiation. The present research was carried out to determine the acceptance rate of queen cells, and RJ production between the hygienic and non-hygienic lines. Further, this study unveils the effect of pollen substitute diets on the queen cell acceptance rate and RJ yields between both bee stocks. Results showed that the uncapped brood cells and dead brood's removal percentage was significantly more in hygienic bee colonies in comparison to non-hygienic bee colonies (p < 0.05). The average percentage of larval acceptance was statistically higher in hygienic lines (64.33 ± 2.91%) compared to non-hygienic lines (29.67 ± 1.20%). Similarly, the RJ mean weight per colony differed statistically between both bee stocks (p<0.001), which were 12.23 ± 0.52 g and 6.72 ± 0.33 g, respectively. Moreover, our results demonstrated that a significant difference was observed in larval acceptance rate, RJ yields (per colony and per cup) between both bee stocks those fed on various diets. However, no significant difference was recorded in RJ yields (per colony and per cup) between both bee stock that feeds on either commercially available pollen or pollen substitute. This study may provide future applications in helping bee breeders to choose the bees that carry a higher level of hygienic behavior with high RJ production traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Ali Khan
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamed A. Ghramh
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Fouad S, El Gendy A, Monir R, Abdel-Wahhab KG, Shafei HF, Hegazi AG. Bee Products for Relieving Menopausal Symptoms. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.8191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: An overview of honey and other bee products and their health and biological health potentials was highlighted.
AIM: The aim of the study was to help females alleviate their menopausal symptoms, when estrogen hormone levels decrease at the end of their fertility phase of life using natural bee products.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Two groups of Egyptian women in the menopausal stage, suffering from different symptoms of menopause, participated as volunteers. Full clinical examination, Menopause Rating Scale, Beck anxiety score, and Beck depression score evaluations were recorded. Blood sampling and biochemical analysis were done including female sex hormones, and anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant markers. Participants consumed two tablespoon of the honey (32 ml) diluted in 250 ml of water once daily in the morning for 2 months. Control group received conventional clover honey while the other group consumed a calculated ratio of clover honey enriched with bee pollen, royal jelly, and bee gum.
RESULTS: Subjects with a mean age of 49.51 ± 0.82 years who consumed enriched clover honey had significant improvement in somatic, psychological, urogenital, and anxiety score assessment and depression score evaluation. Data from this study group showed that the women experienced the disappearance of hot flushes, night sweats, generalized body pain, and psychological symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, depression, and disturbed sleeping. As for biochemical parameters, estradiol, free testosterone, the antioxidant marker malondialdehyde (MDA), and the anti-inflammatory marker interleukin-6 (IL-6) significantly improved at the end of the study. While the control group had mean age of 48.24 ± 0.74 years, they experienced significant improvement of the somatic subscale, depression score, and MDA, and there was no significant effect on urogenital symptoms, anxiety score, IL-6, or any of the female sex hormones.
CONCLUSION: Adding Bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly to the clover honey are more effective in slowing down menopausal symptoms.
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16
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Honey bee pathogenesis posing threat to its global population: a short review. PROCEEDINGS OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL SCIENCE ACADEMY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s43538-022-00062-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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17
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Li S, Tao L, Yu X, Zheng H, Wu J, Hu F. Royal Jelly Proteins and Their Derived Peptides: Preparation, Properties, and Biological Activities. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:14415-14427. [PMID: 34807598 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c05942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Royal jelly, also called bee milk, is a source of high-quality proteins. Royal jelly proteins serve as not only a rich source of essential amino acids and functional donors but also an excellent substrate for preparing bioactive peptides. Most naturally occurring bioactive peptides in royal jelly are antibacterial, while peptides derived from proteolytic reactions are shown to exert antihypertensive, antioxidative, and anti-aging activities. Further studies are warranted to characterize the functional properties of major royal jelly proteins and peptides, to explore the preparation of bioactive peptides and the potential novel activities, to improve their bioavailability, to enhance the production efficiency for commercial availability, and finally to open up new applications for royal jelly as a functional food and potential therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingchen Tao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Huoqing Zheng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianping Wu
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, 4-10 Ag/For Building, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5, Canada
| | - Fuliang Hu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
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18
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Okumura N, Ito T, Degawa T, Moriyama M, Moriyama H. Royal Jelly Protects against Epidermal Stress through Upregulation of the NQO1 Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12973. [PMID: 34884772 PMCID: PMC8657709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is secreted by honeybees and has been used as an apitherapy to obtain healthy skin since ancient times. However, the mechanism of the protective effects of RJ against skin aging and skin diseases caused by skin stress and its components have not been clarified. In this study, we attempted to understand the effect of RJ on epidermal function and observed that NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) is significantly induced by RJ in keratinocytes. The expression of NQO1 was also increased in the 3D epidermal skin model. NQO1 is involved in antioxidation and detoxification metabolism, and we found that RJ protects against the epidermal stress caused by UVB and menadione through the upregulation of NQO1. We identified 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10H2DA), a major fatty acid in RJ, as an active compound in this reaction as it induced the expression of NQO1 and protected the skin against oxidative stress. We demonstrated that the protective effect of RJ against epidermal stress is mediated through the upregulation of NQO1 by 10H2DA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuaki Okumura
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company Inc., Tomata-gun, Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (T.I.); (T.D.)
- Group Cosmetic Central Laboratory, Yamada Bee Company Inc., Shinagawa, Tokyo 104-0004, Japan
| | - Takashi Ito
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company Inc., Tomata-gun, Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (T.I.); (T.D.)
| | - Tomomi Degawa
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company Inc., Tomata-gun, Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (T.I.); (T.D.)
- Group Cosmetic Central Laboratory, Yamada Bee Company Inc., Shinagawa, Tokyo 104-0004, Japan
| | - Mariko Moriyama
- Pharmaceutical Research and Technology Institute, Kindai University, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan; (M.M.); (H.M.)
| | - Hiroyuki Moriyama
- Pharmaceutical Research and Technology Institute, Kindai University, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan; (M.M.); (H.M.)
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19
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Khan KA, Ghramh HA, Ahmad Z, El-Niweiri MAA, Ahamed Mohammed ME. Queen cells acceptance rate and royal jelly production in worker honey bees of two Apis mellifera races. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248593. [PMID: 33848292 PMCID: PMC8043409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is an acidic yellowish-white secretion of worker honey bee glands, used as food material of worker bee larvae for the first three days and queen bee larvae for the entire life. It is commercially used in cosmetics and medicinal industry in various parts of the world. This study determined the queen cell acceptance rate and RJ production difference among Italian and Carniolan bee races. Furthermore, the effect of plastic cup cell priming media, diets and seasons were tested on the larval cell acceptance rate and RJ yield of both races. The results indicated that average queen cell acceptance rate was significantly (p<0.001) higher in Italian race (75.53 ± 1.41%) than Carniolan race (58.20 ± 1.30%). Similarly, mean RJ yield per colony significantly (p<0.001) differed between both bee races, which were 13.10 ± 0.42 g and 9.66 ± 0.43 g, in Italian and Carniolan races, respectively. Moreover, priming media, diets and seasons significantly (p<0.001) affected queen cell acceptance rate and RJ production of both bee races. This study would help breeders to select the bees with higher-level of queen cell acceptance rate and RJ production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Ali Khan
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Zubair Ahmad
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Biology Department, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Zahran al-Janobe, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohamed Elimam Ahamed Mohammed
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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20
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Uversky VN, Albar AH, Khan RH, Redwan EM. Multifunctionality and intrinsic disorder of royal jelly proteome. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2000237. [PMID: 33463023 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202000237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Royal Jelly (RJ) is a gelatinous white-yellowish fluid, possessing a sour taste and a slight phenolic smell that is secreted by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular salivary glands of the nurse honeybees, and is used in nutrition of larvae and adult queens. Similar to other substances associated with the activities of honeybees, RJ not only contains nutritive components, such as carbohydrates, proteins, peptides, lipids, vitamins, and mineral salts, but also represents a natural ingredient with cosmetic and health-promoting properties. RJ is characterized by remarkable multifunctionality, possessing numerous biological activities. Although this multifunctionality of RJ can be considered as a consequence of its complex nature, many proteins and peptides in RJ are polyfunctional entities themselves. In this article, we show that RJ proteins contain different levels of intrinsic disorder, have sites of post-translational modifications, can be found in multiple isoforms, and many of them possess disorder-based binding sites, suggesting that the conformational ensembles of the RJ proteins might undergo change as a result of their interaction with specific binding partners. All these observations suggest that the multifunctionality of proteins and peptides from RJ is determined by their structural heterogeneity and polymorphism, and serve as an illustration of the protein structure-function continuum concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589 80203, Saudi Arabia.,Protein Research Group, Institute for Biological Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal Research Center "Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Pushchino, Moscow region 142290, Russia.,Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Abdulgader H Albar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589 80203, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rizwan H Khan
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Elrashdy M Redwan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589 80203, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Heese K. Gastrodia elata Blume (Tianma): Hope for Brain Aging and Dementia. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2020; 2020:8870148. [PMID: 33424999 PMCID: PMC7781687 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8870148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since aging-related diseases, including dementia, represent major public health threats to our society, physician-scientists must develop innovative, interdisciplinary strategies to open new avenues for development of alternative therapies. One such novel approach may lie in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Gastrodia elata Blume (G. elata, tianma) is a TCM frequently used for treatment of cerebrocardiovascular diseases (CCVDs). Recent studies of G. elata-based treatment modalities, which have investigated its pharmacologically relevant activity, potential efficacy, and safety, have employed G. elata in well-characterized, aging-related disease models, with a focus on models of aging-related dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, I examine results from previous studies of G. elata, as well as related herbal preparations and pure natural products, as prophylaxis and remedies for aging-related CCVDs and dementia. Concluding, data suggest that tianma treatment may be used as a promising complementary therapy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Heese
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 133791, Republic of Korea
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22
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Bobescu E, Bălan A, Moga MA, Teodorescu A, Mitrică M, Dima L. Are There Any Beneficial Effects of Spirulina Supplementation for Metabolic Syndrome Components in Postmenopausal Women? Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18120651. [PMID: 33348926 PMCID: PMC7767256 DOI: 10.3390/md18120651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Spirulina is a phytosynthetic filamentous cyanobacterium with microscopic dimensions, which naturally grows in the highly-salted alkaline lakes of Africa, Mexico, America, and Asia. Several bioactive peptides extracted from Spirulina were demonstrated to possess antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, immunomodulatory, antiallergic and antihypertensive properties. It has been reported that the consumption of Spirulina could prevent or manage metabolic syndrome components. In women, metabolic disorders are more prevalent during menopause. Postmenopausal women present higher waist circumference, increased blood pressure, hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, and decreased HDL-cholesterol values, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, in order to prevent cardiovascular diseases, it is essential to manage the components of the metabolic syndrome during the postmenopausal period. As recent reports indicated the efficiency of Spirulina supplementation in the management of the metabolic syndrome components, our study aims to review all the clinical trials conducted on this topic. Our main objective is to have a better understanding of whether and how this cyanobacterium could manage the abnormalities included in the metabolic syndrome and if it could be used as a therapeutic approach in postmenopausal women with this condition. We selected relevant articles from PubMed, Google Scholar and CrossRef databases, and a total number of 20 studies met our criteria. All included clinical trials indicated that Spirulina has positive effects in managing metabolic syndrome components. Spirulina is a valuable cyanobacterium that can be used as a food supplement for the management of metabolic syndrome, and it is able to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. The optimal dose and period of administration remain a debated subject, and future investigations are required. Considering the beneficial effects reported against each component of the metabolic syndrome, Spirulina could also be effective in the postmenopausal period, when this syndrome is the most prevalent, but there is a strong need for human clinical trials in order to sustain this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bobescu
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (E.B.); (M.A.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Andreea Bălan
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (E.B.); (M.A.M.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-769-901-194
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (E.B.); (M.A.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Andreea Teodorescu
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University Transilvania Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (A.T.); (L.D.)
| | - Maria Mitrică
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (E.B.); (M.A.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University Transilvania Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (A.T.); (L.D.)
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