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Baia-da-Silva DC, Mendes PFS, Silva DCBD, Chemelo VS, Bittencourt LO, Padilha PM, Oriá RB, Aschner M, Lima RR. What does scientometry tell us about mercury toxicology and its biological impairments? Heliyon 2024; 10:e27526. [PMID: 38586377 PMCID: PMC10998116 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Mercury is a toxic pollutant that poses risks to both human and environmental health, making it a pressing public health concern. This study aimed to summarize the knowledge on mercury toxicology and the biological impairments caused by exposure to mercury in experimental studies and/or diagnosis in humans. The research was conducted on the main collection of Web of Science, employing as a methodological tool a bibliometric analysis. The selected articles were analyzed, and extracted data such as publication year, journal, author, title, number of citations, corresponding author's country, keywords, and the knowledge mapping was performed about the type of study, chemical form of mercury, exposure period, origin of exposure, tissue/fluid of exposure measurement, mercury concentration, evaluation period (age), mercury effect, model experiments, dose, exposure pathway, and time of exposure. The selected articles were published between 1965 and 2021, with Clarkson TW being the most cited author who has also published the most articles. A total of 38% of the publications were from the USA. These studies assessed the prenatal and postnatal effects of mercury, emphasizing the impact of methylmercury on neurodevelopment, including motor and cognitive evaluations, the association between mercury and autism, and an evaluation of its protective effects against mercury toxicity. In observational studies, the blood, umbilical cord, and hair were the most frequently used for measuring mercury levels. Our data analysis reveals that mercury neurotoxicology has been extensively explored, but the association among the outcomes evaluated in experimental studies has yet to be strengthened. Providing metric evidence on what is unexplored allows for new studies that may help governmental and non-governmental organizations develop guidelines and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiane Claydes Baia-da-Silva
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Paulo Fernando Santos Mendes
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Diane Cleydes Baia da Silva
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Victória Santos Chemelo
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Oliveira Bittencourt
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Pedro Magalhães Padilha
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Reinaldo Barreto Oriá
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Rafael Rodrigues Lima
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
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Leal-Nazaré CG, Arrifano GP, Lopes-Araújo A, Santos-Sacramento L, Barthelemy JL, Soares-Silva I, Crespo-Lopez ME, Augusto-Oliveira M. Methylmercury neurotoxicity: Beyond the neurocentric view. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:170939. [PMID: 38365040 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Mercury is a highly toxic metal widely used in human activities worldwide, therefore considered a global public health problem. Many cases of mercury intoxication have occurred in history and represent a huge challenge nowadays. Of particular importance is its methylated form, methylmercury (MeHg). This mercurial species induces damage to several organs in the human body, especially to the central nervous system. Neurological impairments such as executive, memory, motor and visual deficits are associated with MeHg neurotoxicity. Molecular mechanisms involved in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity include excitotoxicity due to glutamatergic imbalance, disturbance in calcium homeostasis and oxidative balance, failure in synaptic support, and inflammatory response. Although neurons are largely affected by MeHg intoxication, they only represent half of the brain cells. Glial cells represent roughly 50 % of the brain cells and are key elements in the functioning of the central nervous system. Particularly, astrocytes and microglia are deeply involved in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity, resulting in distinct neurological outcomes depending on the context. In this review, we discuss the main findings on astroglial and microglial involvement as mediators of neuroprotective and neurotoxic responses to MeHg intoxication. The literature shows that these responses depend on chemical and morphophysiological features, thus, we present some insights for future investigations, considering the particularities of the context, including time and dose of exposure, brain region, and species of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Gustavo Leal-Nazaré
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Gabriela P Arrifano
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Amanda Lopes-Araújo
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Leticia Santos-Sacramento
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Jean Ludger Barthelemy
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Isabela Soares-Silva
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil.
| | - Marcus Augusto-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil.
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3
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Da Silva IO, Crespo-Lopez ME, Augusto-Oliveira M, Arrifano GDP, Ramos-Nunes NR, Gomes EB, da Silva FRP, de Sousa AA, Leal ALAB, Damasceno HC, de Oliveira ACA, Souza-Monteiro JR. What We Know about Euterpe Genus and Neuroprotection: A Scoping Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3189. [PMID: 37513607 PMCID: PMC10384735 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143189] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Euterpe genus (mainly Euterpe oleracea Martius, Euterpe precatoria Martius, and Euterpe edulis Martius) has recently gained commercial and scientific notoriety due to the high nutritional value of its fruits, which are rich in polyphenols (phenolic acids and anthocyanins) and have potent antioxidant activity. These characteristics have contributed to the increased number of neuropharmacological evaluations of the three species over the last 10 years, especially açaí of the species Euterpe oleracea Martius. The fruits of the three species exert neuroprotective effects through the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative pathways and other mechanisms, including the inhibition of the mTOR pathway and protection of the blood-brain barrier, all of them intimately involved in several neuropathologies. Thus, a better understanding of the neuropharmacological properties of these three species may open new paths for the development of therapeutic tools aimed at preventing and treating a variety of neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilano Oliveira Da Silva
- Medicine College, Altamira Campus, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Altamira 68372-040, PA, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Marcus Augusto-Oliveira
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Gabriela de Paula Arrifano
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | | | - Elielton Barreto Gomes
- Medicine College, Altamira Campus, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Altamira 68372-040, PA, Brazil
| | | | - Aline Andrade de Sousa
- Medicine College, Altamira Campus, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Altamira 68372-040, PA, Brazil
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de Paula Arrifano G, Crespo-Lopez ME, Lopes-Araújo A, Santos-Sacramento L, Barthelemy JL, de Nazaré CGL, Freitas LGR, Augusto-Oliveira M. Neurotoxicity and the Global Worst Pollutants: Astroglial Involvement in Arsenic, Lead, and Mercury Intoxication. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1047-1065. [PMID: 35997862 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Environmental pollution is a global threat and represents a strong risk factor for human health. It is estimated that pollution causes about 9 million premature deaths every year. Pollutants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the central nervous system are of special concern, because of their potential to cause neurological and development disorders. Arsenic, lead and mercury are usually ranked as the top three in priority lists of regulatory agencies. Against xenobiotics, astrocytes are recognised as the first line of defence in the CNS, being involved in virtually all brain functions, contributing to homeostasis maintenance. Here, we discuss the current knowledge on the astroglial involvement in the neurotoxicity induced by these pollutants. Beginning by the main toxicokinetic characteristics, this review also highlights the several astrocytic mechanisms affected by these pollutants, involving redox system, neurotransmitter and glucose metabolism, and cytokine production/release, among others. Understanding how these alterations lead to neurological disturbances (including impaired memory, deficits in executive functions, and motor and visual disfunctions), by revisiting the current knowledge is essential for future research and development of therapies and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela de Paula Arrifano
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Amanda Lopes-Araújo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Letícia Santos-Sacramento
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Jean L Barthelemy
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Caio Gustavo Leal de Nazaré
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Luiz Gustavo R Freitas
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Marcus Augusto-Oliveira
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Av. Augusto Corrêa, 01, Belém, PA, 66075-110, Brazil.
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Wu X, Li P, Tao J, Chen X, Zhang A. Subchronic Low-Dose Methylmercury Exposure Accelerated Cerebral Telomere Shortening in Relevant with Declined Urinary aMT6s Level in Rats. TOXICS 2023; 11:191. [PMID: 36851065 PMCID: PMC9961034 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a global pollutant with established toxic effects on the central nervous system (CNS). However, early events and early-warning biomarkers of CNS damage following exposure to low-dose MeHg are still lacking. This study aimed to investigate whether subchronic low-dose MeHg exposure had adverse effects on the cerebral telomere length, as well as serum melatonin and its urinary metabolite 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) in rats. Sixteen male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two groups. Group I was the control group. In group II, rats were exposed to MeHg by gavage at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg/day for 3 months. This study revealed that MeHg exposure resulted in impairment of learning and memory ability, a slightly reduced number of neurons and an irregular arrangement of neurons in the hippocampus. It also significantly accelerated telomere shortening in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus. Moreover, MeHg exposure decreased the levels of melatonin in serum and aMT6s in urine, partly by suppressing the synthesis of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the brain but promoted the expression of melatonin-catalyzing AANAT and ASMT. Importantly, cerebral telomere length was positively correlated with MT and aMT6s after MeHg exposure. These results suggested that the shortened telomere length in the brain may be an early event in MeHg-induced CNS toxicity, and the level of aMT6s in urine may serve as an early-warning biomarker for MeHg-induced CNS damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Junyan Tao
- The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiong Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Aihua Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
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Laurindo LF, Barbalho SM, Araújo AC, Guiguer EL, Mondal A, Bachtel G, Bishayee A. Açaí ( Euterpe oleracea Mart.) in Health and Disease: A Critical Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15040989. [PMID: 36839349 PMCID: PMC9965320 DOI: 10.3390/nu15040989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The açaí palm (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a species belonging to the Arecaceae family, has been cultivated for thousands of years in tropical Central and South America as a multipurpose dietary plant. The recent introduction of açaí fruit and its nutritional and healing qualities to regions outside its origin has rapidly expanded global demand for açaí berry. The health-promoting and disease-preventing properties of this plant are attributed to numerous bioactive phenolic compounds present in the leaf, pulp, fruit, skin, and seeds. The purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date, comprehensive, and critical evaluation of the health benefits of açaí and its phytochemicals with a special focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that açaí possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and exerts cardioprotective, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, renoprotective, antilipidemic, antidiabetic, and antineoplastic activities. Moreover, clinical trials have suggested that açaí can protect against metabolic stress induced by oxidation, inflammation, vascular abnormalities, and physical exertion. Due to its medicinal properties and the absence of undesirable effects, açaí shows a promising future in health promotion and disease prevention, in addition to a vast economic potential in the food and cosmetic industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Fornari Laurindo
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina de Marília, Marília 17519-030, SP, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Barbalho
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, School of Food and Technology of Marília, Marília 17500-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriano Cressoni Araújo
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Elen Landgraf Guiguer
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, Marília 17525-902, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, School of Food and Technology of Marília, Marília 17500-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Arijit Mondal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, M.R. College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Balisha 743 234, India
| | - Gabrielle Bachtel
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
- Correspondence: or
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Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Alveolar Bone Damage in Experimental Periodontitis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11101902. [PMID: 36290625 PMCID: PMC9598833 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11101902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) juice is rich in phenolic compounds with high antioxidant capacity. It has been observed that the use of antioxidants may be an additional strategy to nonsurgical periodontal therapy as well as to prevent alveolar bone loss. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of açaí supplementation on experimental periodontitis in rats. Twenty male Rattus norvegicus (Wistar) rats were assigned into control, açaí, experimental periodontitis, and experimental periodontitis with açaí supplementation groups. Periodontitis was induced by placing ligatures around the lower first molars. Animals in the açaí groups received 0.01 mL/g of clarified açaí juice for 14 days by intragastric gavage. At the end of the experimental period, blood was collected to assess the reduced glutathione (GSH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) levels. Moreover, hemimandibles were analyzed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for alveolar bone loss and bone quality. Açaí supplementation increased blood total antioxidant capacity and decreased lipid peroxidation. It also reduced alveolar bone loss when compared to the experimental periodontitis group. Moreover, clarified açaí per se modulated the oxidative biochemistry and bone microstructure. Thus, açaí may be considered a viable alternative for managing periodontal oxidative stress and preventing alveolar bone loss.
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Bjørklund G, Antonyak H, Polishchuk A, Semenova Y, Lesiv M, Lysiuk R, Peana M. Effect of methylmercury on fetal neurobehavioral development: an overview of the possible mechanisms of toxicity and the neuroprotective effect of phytochemicals. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:3175-3199. [PMID: 36063174 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03366-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a global environmental pollutant with neurotoxic effects. Exposure to MeHg via consumption of seafood and fish can severely impact fetal neurobehavioral development even when MeHg levels in maternal blood are as low as about 5 μg/L, which the mother tolerates well. Persistent motor dysfunctions and cognitive deficits may result from trans-placental exposure. The present review summarizes current knowledge on the mechanisms of MeHg toxicity during the period of nervous system development. Although cerebellar Purkinje cells are MeHg targets, the actions of MeHg on thiol components in the neuronal cytoskeleton as well as on mitochondrial enzymes and induction of disturbances of glutamate signaling can impair extra-cerebellar functions, also at levels well tolerated by adult individuals. Numerous herbal substances possess neuroprotective effects, predominantly represented by natural polyphenolic molecules that might be utilized to develop natural drugs to alleviate neurotoxicity symptoms caused by MeHg or other Hg compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Toften 24, 8610, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | | | | | | | - Marta Lesiv
- Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Roman Lysiuk
- Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
- CONEM Ukraine Life Science Research Group, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Massimiliano Peana
- Department of Chemical, Physics, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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ALNasser MN, Mellor IR. Neuroprotective activities of acai berries (Euterpe sp.): A review. JOURNAL OF HERBMED PHARMACOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.34172/jhp.2022.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary interventions rich in fruits and vegetables in aging people can reverse or mitigate age-related cognitive declines, delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), and provide long-term health dividends. The novel food, popularly known as "Acai", is a berry belonging to the Euterpe genus of tropical palms trees and natively found in South America. Euterpe oleracea has been given much attention among scientists due to its high antioxidant capacity compared to other fruits and berries. Additionally, acai pulp composition analysis found that it contains various biologically active phytochemicals. In this review, we focused on current evidence relating to acai berry neuroprotection mechanisms and its efficacy in preventing or reversing neurodegeneration and age-related cognitive decline. A number of studies have illustrated the potential neuroprotective properties of acai berries. They have shown that their chemical extracts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and maintain proteins, calcium homeostasis, and mitochondrial function. Moreover, acai berry extract offers other neuromodulatory mechanisms, including anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anti-aging properties. This neuromodulation gives valuable insights into the acai pulp and its considerable pharmacological potential on critical brain areas involved in memory and cognition. The isolated chemical matrix of acai berries could be a new substitute in research for NDD medicine development. However, due to the limited number of investigations, there is a need for further efforts to establish studies that enable progressing to clinical trials to consequently prove and ratify the therapeutic potential of this berry for several incurable NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam N. ALNasser
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ian R. Mellor
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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10
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Methylmercury exposure during prenatal and postnatal neurodevelopment promotes oxidative stress associated with motor and cognitive damages in rats: an environmental-experimental toxicology study. Toxicol Rep 2022; 9:563-574. [PMID: 35392159 PMCID: PMC8980556 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The environmental contamination by methylmercury (MeHg) is a major concern for public health. The effects of MeHg in the central nervous system (CNS) of adult animals have been extensively investigated; however, little is known about the effects of MeHg exposure during intrauterine and lactation periods on motor and cognitive functions of adolescent rats. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of MeHg exposure during intrauterine life and lactation on both motor and cognitive functions of offspring rats. Ten female Wistar rats were exposed to 40 μg/kg/day of MeHg through cookie treats from the first day of pregnancy until the last day of breastfeeding. Both motor and cognitive functions of offspring male rats were assessed by open field, rotarod, and step-down inhibitory avoidance tests. Forty-one days after birth, the hippocampus and cerebellum were collected to determine total Hg content, antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and nitrite levels. MeHg exposure during CNS development increased Hg levels in both hippocampal and cerebellar parenchymas, triggered oxidative stress throughout ACAP and GSH decrease, increased LPO and nitrite levels. These alterations resulted in reduced spontaneous and stimulated locomotion and short- and long-term memory deficits. Therefore, damages triggered by MeHg exposure during intrauterine life and lactation had detrimental effects on oxidative biochemistry and motor and cognitive functions of offspring rats. The MeHg exposure during CNS development increased mercury levels in hippocampal and cerebellar parenchyma. The MeHg intoxication during pregnancy and lactation impairs the redox status of hippocampus and cerebellum of the offspring. MeHg exposure causes behavioral effects in motor ability and cognition of offspring rats.
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11
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Roque CR, Sampaio LR, Ito MN, Pinto DV, Caminha JSR, Nunes PIG, Raposo RS, Santos FA, Windmöller CC, Crespo-Lopez ME, Alvarez-Leite JI, Oriá RB, Pinheiro RF. Methylmercury chronic exposure affects the expression of DNA single-strand break repair genes, induces oxidative stress, and chromosomal abnormalities in young dyslipidemic APOE knockout mice. Toxicology 2021; 464:152992. [PMID: 34670124 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is one of the most toxic environmental pollutants, especially when methylated, forming methylmercury (MeHg). MeHg affects DNA repair, increases oxidative stress, and predisposes to cancer. MeHg neurotoxicity is well-known, but recently MeHg-associated cardiovascular effects were recognized. This study evaluated circulating lipids, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity after MeHg-chronic exposure (20 mg/L in drinking water) in C57BL/6J wild-type and APOE knockout (ko) mice, the latter, being spontaneously dyslipidemic. Experimental mice were assigned to four groups: non-intoxicated and MeHg-intoxicated wild-type mice and non-intoxicated and MeHg-intoxicated APOE ko mice. Plasma levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), HDL, and LDL were analyzed. Liver lipid peroxidation and splenic gene expression of xeroderma pigmentosum complementation groups A, C, D, and G (XPA, XPC, XPD, and XPG), X-ray repair cross-complementing protein 1 (XRCC1), and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) were measured. Fur Hg levels confirmed chronic MeHg intoxication. MeHg exposure raises TC levels both in wild-type and APOE ko mice. HDL and LDL-cholesterol levels were increased only in the MeHg-challenged APOE ko mice. MeHg increased liver lipid peroxidation, regardless of the genetic background. Unintoxicated APOE ko mice showed higher expression of TERT than all other groups. APOE deficiency increases XPA expression, regardless of MeHg intoxication. Furthermore, MeHg-intoxicated mice had more cytogenetic abnormalities, effect which was independent of APOE deficiency. More studies are needed to dissect the interactions between circulating lipids, MeHg intoxication, and DNA-repair pathways even at young age, interactions that likely play critical roles in cell senescence and the risk for chronic disorders later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cássia R Roque
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Letícia R Sampaio
- Cancer Cytogenomics Laboratory, Drug Research, and Development Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Mayumi N Ito
- Cancer Cytogenomics Laboratory, Drug Research, and Development Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Daniel V Pinto
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Juan S R Caminha
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Paulo I G Nunes
- Natural Products Laboratory, Biomedicine Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Ramon S Raposo
- Experimental Biology core, Health Sciences, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Flávia A Santos
- Natural Products Laboratory, Biomedicine Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Cláudia C Windmöller
- Laboratory of Atherosclerosis and Nutritional Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline I Alvarez-Leite
- Laboratory of Atherosclerosis and Nutritional Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, ICB, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Reinaldo B Oriá
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
| | - Ronald F Pinheiro
- Cancer Cytogenomics Laboratory, Drug Research, and Development Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
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12
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Contributing to Understand the Crosstalk between Brain and Periphery in Methylmercury Intoxication: Neurotoxicity and Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910855. [PMID: 34639196 PMCID: PMC8509412 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) is currently high in regions such as the Amazon. Understanding the molecular changes associated with MeHg-induced neurotoxicity and the crosstalk with the periphery is essential to support early diagnoses. This work aimed to evaluate cellular and molecular changes associated with behavioral alterations in MeHg acute exposure and the possible changes in extracellular vesicles (EVs) number and S100β content. Adults male Wistar rats were orally treated with 5 mg/kg for four days. Behavioral performance, molecular and histological changes in the cerebellum, and plasma EVs were assessed. MeHg-intoxicated animals performed significantly worse in behavioral tests. MeHg increased the number of GFAP+ cells and GFAP and S100β mRNA expression in the cerebellum but no change in NeuN+ or IBA-1+ cells number was detected. The number of exosomes isolated from plasma were decreased by the metal. S100B mRNA was detected in circulating plasma EVs cargo in MeHg exposure. Though preliminary, our results suggest astrocytic reactivity is displaying a protective role once there was no neuronal death. Interestingly, the reduction in exosomes number could be a new mechanism associated with MeHg-induced neurotoxicity and plasma EVs could represent a source of future biomarkers in MeHg intoxication.
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13
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Sayago-Ayerdi S, García-Martínez DL, Ramírez-Castillo AC, Ramírez-Concepción HR, Viuda-Martos M. Tropical Fruits and Their Co-Products as Bioactive Compounds and Their Health Effects: A Review. Foods 2021; 10:foods10081952. [PMID: 34441729 PMCID: PMC8393595 DOI: 10.3390/foods10081952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tropical and subtropical fruits are recognized as a source of a high content of bioactive compounds and health promoting properties due to their nutritional composition. These beneficial health effects are related to the content of several of these bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics. Many of these compounds are common in different tropical fruits, such as epicatechin in mango, pineapple, and banana, or catechin in pineapple, cocoa or avocado. Many studies of tropical fruits had been carried out, but in this work an examination is made in the current literature of the flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics content of some tropical fruits and their coproducts, comparing the content in the same units, as well as examining the role that these compounds play in health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Sayago-Ayerdi
- Tecnologico Nacional de Mexico, Instituto Tecnologico de Tepic, Av Tecnológico 2595, Col Lagos del Country, Tepic 63175, Nayarit Mexico, Mexico; (S.S.-A.); (D.L.G.-M.); (A.C.R.-C.); (H.R.R.-C.)
| | - Diana Laura García-Martínez
- Tecnologico Nacional de Mexico, Instituto Tecnologico de Tepic, Av Tecnológico 2595, Col Lagos del Country, Tepic 63175, Nayarit Mexico, Mexico; (S.S.-A.); (D.L.G.-M.); (A.C.R.-C.); (H.R.R.-C.)
| | - Ailin Cecilia Ramírez-Castillo
- Tecnologico Nacional de Mexico, Instituto Tecnologico de Tepic, Av Tecnológico 2595, Col Lagos del Country, Tepic 63175, Nayarit Mexico, Mexico; (S.S.-A.); (D.L.G.-M.); (A.C.R.-C.); (H.R.R.-C.)
| | - Heidi Rubí Ramírez-Concepción
- Tecnologico Nacional de Mexico, Instituto Tecnologico de Tepic, Av Tecnológico 2595, Col Lagos del Country, Tepic 63175, Nayarit Mexico, Mexico; (S.S.-A.); (D.L.G.-M.); (A.C.R.-C.); (H.R.R.-C.)
| | - Manuel Viuda-Martos
- IPOA Research Group, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria y Agroambiental (CIAGRO-UMH), Agro-Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, 03312 Alicante, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-966-749-661
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14
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Arrifano GP, Alvarez-Leite JI, Macchi BM, Campos NFSS, Augusto-Oliveira M, Santos-Sacramento L, Lopes-Araújo A, Souza-Monteiro JR, Alburquerque-Santos R, do Nascimento JLM, Santos S, Ribeiro-dos-Santos Â, Oriá RB, Crespo-Lopez ME. Living in the Southern Hemisphere: Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in Amazonian Riverine Populations. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3630. [PMID: 34441925 PMCID: PMC8396977 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The metabolic syndrome (MetS) epidemic is a global challenge. Although developing countries (including Brazil, India, and South Africa) present a higher proportion of deaths by cardiovascular diseases than developed countries, most of our knowledge is from these developed countries. Amazonian riverine populations (ARP), as well as other vulnerable populations of the Southern Hemisphere, share low-income and traditional practices, among other features. This large cross-sectional study of ARP (n = 818) shows high prevalence of hypertension (51%) and obesity (23%). MetS was diagnosed in 38% of participants (especially in women and 60-69 years-old individuals) without the influence of ancestry. Only 7-8% of adults had no cardio-metabolic abnormalities related to MetS. Atherogenic dyslipidemia (low HDL-cholesterol) was generally observed, including in individuals without MetS. Still, slight differences were detected between settings with a clear predominance of hypertension in Tucuruí. Hypotheses on possible genetic influence and factors (nutrition transition and environmental pollutants -mercury) are proposed for future studies. Moreover, a roadmap to MetS progression based on the most prevalent components is provided for the development of tailored interventions in the Amazon (initially, individuals would present low HDL-cholesterol levels, later progressing to increased blood pressure characterizing hypertension, and ultimately reaching MetS with obesity). Our alarming results support the need to improve our knowledge on these vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela P. Arrifano
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | - Jacqueline I. Alvarez-Leite
- Laboratório de Aterosclerose e Bioquímica Nutricional, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30161-970, Brazil;
| | - Barbarella M. Macchi
- Laboratório de Neuroquímica e Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (B.M.M.); (J.L.M.d.N.)
| | - Núbia F. S. S. Campos
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | - Marcus Augusto-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | - Letícia Santos-Sacramento
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | - Amanda Lopes-Araújo
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | | | - Raquel Alburquerque-Santos
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
| | - José Luiz M. do Nascimento
- Laboratório de Neuroquímica e Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (B.M.M.); (J.L.M.d.N.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá 68903-419, Brazil
| | - Sidney Santos
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (S.S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Ândrea Ribeiro-dos-Santos
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (S.S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Reinaldo B. Oriá
- Laboratório de Biologia da Cicatrização, Ontogenia e Nutrição de Tecidos, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-160, Brazil;
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, Brazil; (G.P.A.); (N.F.S.S.C.); (M.A.-O.); (L.S.-S.); (A.L.-A.); (R.A.-S.)
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15
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Abu-Zeid EH, Khalifa BA, Elewa YHA, Arisha AH, Ismail TA, Hendam BM, Abdel-Hamid SE. Bee venom Apis mellifera lamarckii rescues blood brain barrier damage and neurobehavioral changes induced by methyl mercury via regulating tight junction proteins expression in rat cerebellum. Food Chem Toxicol 2021; 154:112309. [PMID: 34062221 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2021.112309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the current study is to investigate the protective effect of Egyptian bee venom (BV) against methyl mercury chloride (MMC) induced blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage and neurobehavioral changes. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly grouped into 1st control (C), 2nd BV (0.5 mg/kg S/C for14 days), 3rd MMC (6.7 mg/kg orally/14 days), and 4th MMC + BV group. MMC exposure significantly altered rat cognitive behavior, auditory startle habituation, and swimming performance, increased the exploratory, grooming, and stereotypic behavior. MMC significantly impaired BBB integrity via induction of inflammation, oxidative stress, and down-regulation of tight junction proteins genes (TJPs) mRNA expression levels: Occludin (OCC), Claudins-5 (CLDN5), Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), while up-regulated the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) mRNA expression levels. MMC revealed a significantly higher percentage of IgG positive area ratio, a higher index ratio of Iba1, Sox10, and ss-DNA, while index ratio of CD31, neurofilament, and pan neuron showed a significant reduction. Administration of BV significantly regulates the MMC altered behavioral responses, TJPs relative mRNA expression, and the immune-expression markers for specific neural cell types. It could be concluded for the first time that BV retains a promising in vivo protection against MMC-induced BBB dysfunction and neurobehavioral toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan H Abu-Zeid
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Bouthaina A Khalifa
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 12211, Egypt
| | - Yaser H A Elewa
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44511, Egypt; Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| | - Ahmed H Arisha
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo, Egypt; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Tamer A Ismail
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Turabah University College, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basma M Hendam
- Department of Husbandry and Development of Animal Wealth, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Shereen El Abdel-Hamid
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
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16
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Assmann CE, Weis GCC, da Rosa JR, Bonadiman BDSR, Alves ADO, Schetinger MRC, Ribeiro EE, Morsch VMM, da Cruz IBM. Amazon-derived nutraceuticals: Promises to mitigate chronic inflammatory states and neuroinflammation. Neurochem Int 2021; 148:105085. [PMID: 34052297 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Nutraceuticals have been the focus of numerous research in recent years and accumulating data support their use for promoting some health benefits. Several nutraceuticals have been widely studied as supplements due to their functional properties ameliorating symptoms associated with neurological disorders, such as oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory states. This seems to be the case of some fruits and seeds from the Amazon Biome consumed since the pre-Columbian period that could have potential beneficial impact on the human nervous system. The beneficial activities of these food sources are possibly related to a large number of bioactive molecules including polyphenols, carotenoids, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and trace elements. In this context, this review compiled the research on six Amazonian fruits and seeds species and some of the major nutraceuticals found in their composition, presenting brief mechanisms related to their protagonist action in improving inflammatory responses and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Elias Assmann
- Post-Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Toxicological Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Grazielle Castagna Cezimbra Weis
- Post-Graduate Program in Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Jéssica Righi da Rosa
- Post-Graduate Program in Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Beatriz da Silva Rosa Bonadiman
- Post-Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
| | - Audrei de Oliveira Alves
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Maria Rosa Chitolina Schetinger
- Post-Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Toxicological Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | | | - Vera Maria Melchiors Morsch
- Post-Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Toxicological Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ivana Beatrice Mânica da Cruz
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program in Gerontology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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17
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Revisiting Astrocytic Roles in Methylmercury Intoxication. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:4293-4308. [PMID: 33990914 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Intoxication by heavy metals such as methylmercury (MeHg) is recognized as a global health problem, with strong implications in central nervous system pathologies. Most of these neuropathological conditions involve vascular, neurotransmitter recycling, and oxidative balance disruption leading to accelerated decline in fine balance, and learning, memory, and visual processes as main outcomes. Besides neurons, astrocytes are involved in virtually all the brain processes and perform important roles in neurological response following injuries. Due to astrocytes' strategic functions in brain homeostasis, these cells became the subject of several studies on MeHg intoxication. The most heterogenous glial cells, astrocytes, are composed of plenty of receptors and transporters to dialogue with neurons and other cells and to monitor extracellular environment responding tightly through fluctuation of cytosolic ions. The overall toxicity of MeHg might be determined on the basis of the balance between MeHg-mediated injury to neurons and protective responses from astrocytes. Although the role of neurons in MeHg intoxication is relatively well-established, the role of the astrocytes is only beginning to be understood. In this review, we update the information on astroglial modulation of the MeHg-induced neurotoxicity, providing remarks on their protective and deleterious roles and insights for future studies.
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18
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Machado CLR, Crespo-Lopez ME, Augusto-Oliveira M, Arrifano GDP, Macchi BDM, Lopes-Araújo A, Santos-Sacramento L, Souza-Monteiro JR, Alvarez-Leite JI, de Souza CBA. Eating in the Amazon: Nutritional Status of the Riverine Populations and Possible Nudge Interventions. Foods 2021; 10:foods10051015. [PMID: 34066557 PMCID: PMC8148567 DOI: 10.3390/foods10051015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Amazon is the largest tropical forest in the world and a source of healthy food, such as fruits and fish. Surprisingly, the Amazonian riverine population present an increased prevalence (as high as 58%) of non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension and insulin resistance, even higher than that described for the urban population of the Amazon. Therefore, this work aimed to analyze the nutritional status and associated risk of the riverine population. Body mass index, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio, and neck circumference (NC) were evaluated, and risk analysis was assayed. Furthermore, data about occupation and the prevalence of consumers of the different groups of food were analyzed. All anthropometric parameters revealed high proportions of individuals at risk, WC and NC being the factors that had more high-risk women and men, respectively. Our data confirmed the characteristic profile of the riverine communities with a high number of fish consumers, but also observed different patterns probably associated to a phenomenon of nutrition transition. Based on our data, some nudge interventions that take into account the principles of behavior analysis are discussed and proposed for these populations, aiming to improve the nutritional status and avoid the long-term consequences of the results showed by this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Lorena Rodrigues Machado
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
- Correspondence: (M.E.C.-L.); (C.B.A.d.S.)
| | - Marcus Augusto-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
| | - Gabriela de Paula Arrifano
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
| | - Barbarella de Matos Macchi
- Laboratório de Neuroquímica Molecular e Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil;
| | - Amanda Lopes-Araújo
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
| | - Letícia Santos-Sacramento
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil; (C.L.R.M.); (M.A.-O.); (G.d.P.A.); (A.L.-A.); (L.S.-S.)
| | | | | | - Carlos Barbosa Alves de Souza
- Núcleo de Teoria e Pesquisa do Comportamento, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia Sobre Comportamento, Cognição e Ensino, Universidade Federal do Pará, 66075-110 Belém, PA, Brazil
- Correspondence: (M.E.C.-L.); (C.B.A.d.S.)
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19
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de Almeida Magalhães TSS, de Oliveira Macedo PC, Converti A, Neves de Lima ÁA. The Use of Euterpe oleracea Mart. As a New Perspective for Disease Treatment and Prevention. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10060813. [PMID: 32466439 PMCID: PMC7356995 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Euterpe oleracea Mart. (EO), popularly known as açaí, belongs to the Arecaceae family and grows abundantly in Brazil. The fruit of this palm tree is widely used because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this review, a search for literature and patent technological prospecting has been performed on the use of EO to treat and prevent diseases as well as to prepare pharmaceutical formulations. EO leaves, fruits, and oil stand out for their large number of pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, anticancer, anti-atherogenic, and healing activities, protection against metabolic syndromes such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, and protection of organs such as lung, kidney, liver, heart, and nervous system. While the phytochemical composition is intrinsically linked to identified biological activities, discoveries of the past decade concerning the use of this species have shown pharmacological alternatives mainly in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer and metabolic syndromes. Although studies and inventions on the use of EO though are believed to have been important in light of the pharmacological activities found, few clinical and toxicity tests have been performed. Nevertheless, with the increase of interest in EO, this species is believed to be only at the beginning of the breakthroughs in the development of promising products for the pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalita Sévia Soares de Almeida Magalhães
- Department of Pharmacy, Laboratório Escola de Farmácia Industrial, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal RN 59012-570, Brazil; (T.S.S.d.A.M.); (P.C.d.O.M.)
| | - Pollyana Cristina de Oliveira Macedo
- Department of Pharmacy, Laboratório Escola de Farmácia Industrial, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal RN 59012-570, Brazil; (T.S.S.d.A.M.); (P.C.d.O.M.)
| | - Attilio Converti
- Department of Civil, Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Pole of Chemical Engineering, Genoa University, I-16145 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Ádley Antonini Neves de Lima
- Department of Pharmacy, Laboratório Escola de Farmácia Industrial, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal RN 59012-570, Brazil; (T.S.S.d.A.M.); (P.C.d.O.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(84)-99928-8864
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