Food-Derived Antioxidant Polysaccharides and Their Pharmacological Potential in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Investigation of anti-aging and anti-infection properties of Jingfang Granules using the Caenorhabditis elegans model

Jingfang Granule (JFG), a traditional Chinese medicine, is frequently employed in clinical settings for the treatment of infectious diseases. Nevertheless, the anti-aging and anti-infection effects of JFG remain uncertain. In the present study, these effects were evaluated using the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) N2 as a model organism. The results demonstrated that JFG significantly increased the median lifespan of C. elegans by 31.2% at a dosage of 10 mg/mL, without any discernible adverse effects, such as alterations in the pharyngeal pumping rate or nematode motility. Moreover, JFG notably increased oviposition by 11.3%. Subsequent investigations revealed that JFG enhanced oxidative stress resistance in C. elegans by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and significantly improved survival rates in nematodes infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027. These findings suggest that JFG delays reproductive senescence in C. elegans and protects them from oxidative stress, thereby extending their lifespan. Additionally, JFG improves the survival of P. aeruginosa-infected nematodes. Consequently, JFG has potential as a candidate for the development of anti-aging and anti-infection functional medicines.

Identification of carbohydrate in Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl and inhibiting oxidative stress

The specific structure of Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl polysaccharide (PKP) has been rarely reported. In this study, an inulin-type fructan PKP-1, was extracted and purified from Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl, and its structural characteristics and antioxidants activity were evaluated. The molecular weights of PKP-1 was determined to be 4.802 kDa. Monosaccharide composition analysis evidenced that PKP-1 was composed of galactose, glucose and fructose in a molar ratio of 0.8 %:7.2 %:92.0 %. Glycosidic linkage and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis revealed that PKP-1 exhibited a primary sugar residue linkage of →1-β-d-Fruf-2→2,6-β-d-Fruf-1→, where β-d-Fruf-2→ acts as the side chain and links to the C-6 position of →2,6-β-d-Fruf-1→. In vitro antioxidant activity assays demonstrated that PKP-1 enhanced the mitigation of hepatic oxidative stress in HepG2 cells induced by free fatty acids. This effect was marked by increased enzymatic activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), along with elevated glutathione (GSH) levels. These findings indicate that PKP-1 could be used as a potential natural antioxidant.

Structural and functional investigation on stem and peel polysaccharides from different varieties of pitaya

Varieties of plant species may affect the composition and structures of the polysaccharides, thus have an impact on their chemical properties and biological activities. Herein, the present study comparatively evaluated the differences in the chemical composition, morphological structures, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory activity of the stem and peel polysaccharides from different varieties of pitaya. The FT-IR and NMR spectra indicated that the six polysaccharides had similar structural features, whereas the physicochemical characterization showed that they differed significantly in terms of the monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, and surface morphology. In addition, different varieties of pitaya polysaccharides exhibited different antioxidant activities and similar anti-inflammatory activities. These data suggested that varietal differences resulted in pitaya stem and peel polysaccharides with different monosaccharide compositions and molecular weights, thus led to different antioxidant activities and protection against oxidative damage, while similar structural features were closely related to their similar anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, the study of the stem and peel polysaccharides from different varieties of pitaya can help us to better understand the relationship between their composition and structure and their biological activities. In addition, pitaya stem and peel polysaccharides have the potential to act as antioxidants or to treat inflammatory damage.

Physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant properties of black soldier fly larvae protein

This study explores the multifaceted attributes of black soldier fly larvae protein (BSFLP), focusing on its physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant properties. BSFLP is characterized by 16 amino acids, with a predominant random coil secondary structure revealed by circular dichroism spectra. Differential scanning calorimetry indicates a substantial thermal denaturation temperature of 97.63°C. The protein exhibits commendable solubility, emulsification, and foaming properties in alkaline and low-salt environments, albeit with reduced water-holding capacity and foam stability under elevated alkaline and high-temperature conditions. In vitro assessments demonstrate that BSFLP displays robust scavenging proficiency against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and hydroxyl radicals, with calculated EC50 values of 1.90 ± 0.57, 0.55 ± 0.01, and 1.14 ± 0.02 mg/mL, respectively, along with notable reducing capabilities. Results from in vivo antioxidant experiments reveal that BSFLP, administered at doses of 300 and 500 mg/kg, significantly enhances the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) (p < 0.05) while simultaneously reducing malondialdehyde levels in both serum and tissues of d-galactose-induced oxidative stress in mice. Moreover, the protein effectively attenuates oxidative damage in liver and hippocampal tissues. These findings underscore the potential utility of BSFLP as a natural antioxidant source, with applications spanning the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Black soldier fly larvae protein emerges as an environmentally sustainable reservoir of natural antioxidants, holding significant promise for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors. Its advantageous amino acid composition, robust thermal resilience, and impressive functional attributes position it as a compelling subject for continued investigation and advancement in various applications.

Microalgae's polysaccharides, are they potent antioxidants? Critical review

The scientific community continue to explore novel bioactive molecules by investigating natural origins; microalgae are photosynthetic organisms considered as a sustainable resource to use in many fields. They present a high diversity in species and richness in terms of attractive bio-compounds. The aim of this review is to (1) provide first an overview of current issues related to oxidative stress, and propose a natural metabolite derived from eukaryotic and prokaryotic microalgae; 'polysaccharides' as a powerful antioxidant agent, then, (2) organize the available data on the antioxidant potential of polysaccharides derived from the main microalgal groups (red microalgae, green microalgae, and cyanobacteria) and especially highlighted the key species of each group (Porphyridium sp., Chlorella sp., and Arthrospira sp., respectively), meanwhile, (3) we described the chemical composition of polysaccharides from each class, and (4) we cite briefly the most factors affecting the antioxidant activity of these molecules. Finally, we explored the major challenges and gaps found to require more investigation.

Unveiling the neuroprotective potential of dietary polysaccharides: a systematic review

Central nervous system (CNS) disorders present a growing and costly global health challenge, accounting for over 11% of the diseases burden in high-income countries. Despite current treatments, patients often experience persistent symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life. Dietary polysaccharides have garnered attention for their potential as interventions for CNS disorders due to their diverse mechanisms of action, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Through an analysis of research articles published between January 5, 2013 and August 30, 2023, encompassing the intervention effects of dietary polysaccharides on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and stroke, we have conducted a comprehensive review with the aim of elucidating the role and mechanisms of dietary polysaccharides in various CNS diseases, spanning neurodegenerative, psychiatric, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurological dysfunctions. At least four categories of mechanistic bases are included in the dietary polysaccharides' intervention against CNS disease, which involves oxidative stress reduction, neuronal production, metabolic regulation, and gut barrier integrity. Notably, the ability of dietary polysaccharides to resist oxidation and modulate gut microbiota not only helps to curb the development of these diseases at an early stage, but also holds promise for the development of novel therapeutic agents for CNS diseases. In conclusion, this comprehensive review strives to advance therapeutic strategies for CNS disorders by elucidating the potential of dietary polysaccharides and advocating interdisciplinary collaboration to propel further research in this realm.

Association between tea drinking and disability levels in older Chinese adults: a longitudinal analysis

Objective

As the global population ages, disability among the elderly presents unprecedented challenges for healthcare systems. However, limited research has examined whether dietary interventions like tea consumption may alleviate and prevent disability in older adults. As an important dietary therapy, the health benefits of tea drinking have gained recognition across research disciplines. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between tea drinking habits and disability levels in the elderly Chinese population.

Methods

Leveraging data from the 2008 to 2018 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, we disaggregated tea drinking frequency and activities of daily living (ADL) measures and deployed fixed-effect ordered logit models to examine the tea-disability association for the first time. We statistically adjusted for potential confounders and conducted stratified analyses to assess heterogeneity across subpopulations.

Results

Multivariable fixed-effect ordered logistic regression suggested tea drinking has protective effects against ADL disability. However, only daily tea drinking was associated with lower risks of basic activities of daily living (BADL) disability [odds ratio (OR) = 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.41-0.92] and lower levels of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) disability (OR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.95). Stratified analyses indicated heterogeneous effects across age and income groups. Daily tea drinking protected against BADL (OR = 0.26 and OR = 0.28) and IADL disability (OR = 0.48 and OR = 0.45) for adults over 83 years old and high-income households, respectively.

Conclusion

We found that drinking tea almost daily was protective against disability in elderly people, warranting further research into optimal dosages. Future studies should utilize more rigorous causal inference methods and control for confounders.

Lactic Acid Bacteria-Derived Exopolysaccharides Mitigate the Oxidative Response via the NRF2-KEAP1 Pathway in PC12 Cells

Parabiotics, including L-EPSs, have been administered to patients with neurodegenerative disorders. However, the antioxidant properties of L-EPSs against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in PC12 cells have not been studied. Herein, we aimed to investigate the antioxidant properties of the L-EPSs, their plausible targets, and their mechanism of action. We first determined the amount of L-EPSs in Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus B3 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GD2 using spectrophotometry. Afterwards, we studied their effects on TDH, TOS/TAS, antioxidant enzyme activities, and intracellular ROS level. Finally, we used qRT-PCR and ELISA to determine the effects of L-EPSs on the NRF2-KEAP1 pathway. According to our results, the L-EPS groups exhibited significantly higher total thiol activity, native thiol activity, disulfide activity, TAS levels, antioxidant enzyme levels, and gene expression levels (GCLC, HO-1, NRF2, and NQO1) than did the H2O2 group. Additionally, the L-EPS groups caused significant reductions in TOS levels and KEAP1 gene expression levels compared with those in the H2O2 group. Our results indicate that H2O2-induced oxidative stress was modified by L-EPSs. Thus, we revealed that L-EPSs, which regulate H2O2-induced oxidative stress, could have applications in the field of neurochemistry.

Physicochemical characterization and cosmetic application of kelp blanching water polysaccharides

Seaweeds account for half of global mariculture and have become a key player in bio-based industries. Seaweed process typically starts with hot water blanching that helps reduce postharvest quality deterioration but also generates large amounts of hydrothermal waste. This study aims to explore the feasibility of isolating water-soluble biopolymers from seaweed hydrothermal waste and their potential applications. Using Saccharina japonica (formerly Laminaria japonica) blanching water as example, 2.9 g/L of polymeric substances were efficiently isolated by ultrafiltration, implying biopolymer coproduction potential of ~5.8 kt from blanching wastewater of current kelp industry. Physicochemical characterizations revealed polysaccharidic nature of the biopolymers, with high contents of fucose, uronic acids and sulfate, showing distinct but also overlapping structural features with hot water-extracted kelp polysaccharides. The main fraction of the blanching water polymers after anion exchange chromatography was acidic polysaccharide, the major backbone residues of which were (1-4) linked mannopyranose, (1-4) linked gulopyranose and (1-2) linked fucopyranose while the branched residues were primarily 1,3,4-, 1,2,4- and 1,4,6-linked hexoses but also 1,3,4-fucopyranose. Furthermore, the polysaccharides were found to have a good compatibility in cosmetic creams with added cohesiveness and freshness, demonstrating the application potential of such natural biopolymers from currently underexplored seaweed blanching water.

A comprehensive review on algal nutraceuticals as prospective therapeutic agent for different diseases

Ongoing research in the food supplement sector provides insightful information regarding algae as a new-generation nutritional supplement and is also referred to as a superfood. Due to the diverse nutritional components, algae have documented numerous health benefits like fighting microbial diseases, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, algae-derived nutraceuticals account for a rapidly expanding market in the food supplements sector. The concept of algal prebiotics and their role in modulating gut microbiota have also been a chief contributor to this. This review evaluates the use of possible algal species and their specific bioactive compounds for the management of several chronic diseases. Proteins, peptides, polysaccharides, phenolics, and vitamins give an insight into the significance of algae in boosting the immune system and improving the body's nutritional makeup. In addition, phyco-compounds such as polysaccharides and polyphenols are also receiving a lot more interest in cosmeceutical applications for protecting skin from photodamage. The incorporation of algae in the diet for the management and prevention of chronic diseases like cancer, lung, and heart disease has been discussed in this review along with their action mechanism. This review provides a brief overview of several bioactive compounds present in micro and macroalgae and their therapeutic effect on lifestyle diseases, gastrointestinal diseases as well as neurodegenerative diseases.

Therapeutic targeting of mitochondria–proteostasis axis by antioxidant polysaccharides in neurodegeneration

Aging is a major risk factor for many age-associated disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. Both mitochondrial dysfunction and proteostatic decline are well-recognized hallmarks of aging and age-related neurodegeneration. Despite a lack of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, a number of interventions promoting mitochondrial integrity and protein homeostasis (proteostasis) have been shown to delay aging-associated neurodegeneration. For example, many antioxidant polysaccharides are shown to have pharmacological potentials in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases through regulation of mitochondrial and proteostatic pathways, including oxidative stress and heat shock responses. However, how mitochondrial and proteostatic mechanisms work together to exert the antineurodegenerative effect of the polysaccharides remains largely unexplored. Interestingly, recent studies have provided a growing body of evidence to support the crosstalk between mitostatic and proteostatic networks as well as the impact of the crosstalk on neurodegeneration. Here we summarize the recent progress of antineurodegenerative polysaccharides with particular attention in the mitochondrial and proteostatic context and provide perspectives on their implications in the crosstalk along the mitochondria-proteostasis axis.

Mushroom Polysaccharides as Potential Candidates for Alleviating Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a widespread and serious global public health burden, particularly among the older population. At present, effective therapies do not exist, despite the increasing understanding of the different mechanisms of NDs. In recent years, some drugs, such as galantamine, entacapone, riluzole, and edaravone, have been proposed for the treatment of different NDs; however, they mainly concentrate on symptom management and confer undesirable side effects and adverse reactions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find novel drugs with fewer disadvantages and higher efficacy for the treatment of NDs. Mushroom polysaccharides are macromolecular complexes with multi-targeting bioactivities, low toxicity, and high safety. Some have been demonstrated to exhibit neuroprotective effects via their antioxidant, anti-amyloidogenic, anti-neuroinflammatory, anticholinesterase, anti-apoptotic, and anti-neurotoxicity activities, which have potential in the treatment of NDs. This review focuses on the different processes involved in ND development and progression, highlighting the neuroprotective activities and potential role of mushroom polysaccharides and summarizing the limitations and future perspectives of mushroom polysaccharides in the prevention and treatment of NDs.

Caenorhabditis elegans as an emerging model in food and nutrition research: importance of standardizing base diet

As a model organism that has helped revolutionize life sciences, Caenorhabditis elegans has been increasingly used in nutrition research. Here we explore the tradeoffs between pros and cons of its use as a dietary model based primarily on literature review from the past decade. We first provide an overview of its experimental strengths as an animal model, focusing on lifespan and healthspan, behavioral and physiological phenotypes, and conservation of key nutritional pathways. We then summarize recent advances of its use in nutritional studies, e.g. food preference and feeding behavior, sugar status and metabolic reprogramming, lifetime and transgenerational nutrition tracking, and diet-microbiota-host interactions, highlighting cutting-edge technologies originated from or developed in C. elegans. We further review current challenges of using C. elegans as a nutritional model, followed by in-depth discussions on potential solutions. In particular, growth scales and throughputs, food uptake mode, and axenic culture of C. elegans are appraised in the context of food research. We also provide perspectives for future development of chemically defined nematode food ("NemaFood") for C. elegans, which is now widely accepted as a versatile and affordable in vivo model and has begun to show transformative potential to pioneer nutrition science.

The Combined Effects of Dietary Diversity and Frailty on Mortality in Older Taiwanese People

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prospective association between frailty and dietary diversity on mortality.

METHOD

This prospective cohort study used the 2005-2008 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (N = 330; age ≥ 65 years) and this was linked to the Death Registry where we used the data that was recorded up to 31 January 2020. Dietary intake information was assessed using a 24-h dietary recall and food-frequency questionnaire, which were calculated a dietary diversity score (DDS; range, 0-6) and food consumption frequency. Assessment of frailty phenotypes was based on FRAIL scale which was proposed by the International Academy on Nutrition and Aging.

RESULTS

Frail older adults had a higher risk of all-cause mortality when they were compared to those with robust physiologies (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.13-6.52). Frailty and a lower DDS were associated with a higher risk of mortality (joint adjusted HR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.11-4.75) which, compared with a robust physiology and higher DDS, were associated with a lower risk of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty and a lower DDS were associated with a higher mortality. Prefrailty and frailty with a higher DDS were associated with a lower risk of mortality when compared with those with prefrailty and frailty and a lower DDS. These results suggest that eating a wide variety of foods might reduce the risk of mortality in older adults with prefrailty and frailty.

Improvement of the antioxidant activity of thyme essential oil against biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles-induced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and disturbances in gene expression in vivo

BACKGROUND

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) are widely utilized in medicine and industry; however, their safety in biological organisms is still unclear. In this study, we determined the bioactive constitutes of thyme essential oil (TEO) and utilized the nanoemulsion technique to improve its protective efficiency against oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and DNA damage of biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs).

METHODS

TEO nanoemulsion (TEON) was prepared using whey protein isolate (WPI). Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups and treated orally for 21 days including the control group, TEO, or TEON- treated groups (5 mg/kg b.w), TiO₂-NPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w) and the groups received TiO₂-NPs plus TEO or TEON. Blood and tissues samples were collected for different assays.

RESULTS

The GC-MS analysis identified 17 bioactive compounds in TEO and thymol and carvacrol were the major compounds. TEON was irregular with average particles size of 230 ± 3.7 nm and ζ-potential of -24.17 mV. However, TiO2-NPs showed a polygonal shape with an average size of 50 ± 2.4 nm and ζ-potential of -30.44 mV. Animals that received TiO2-NPs showed severe disturbances in liver and kidney indices, lipid profile, oxidant/antioxidant indices, inflammatory cytokines, gene expressions, increased DNA damage, and pathological changes in hepatic tissue. Both TEO and TEON showed potential protection against these hazards and TEON was more effective than TEO.

CONCLUSION

The nanoemulsion of TEO enhances the oil bioactivity, improves its antioxidant characteristics, and protects against oxidative damage and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs.

Dairy-Based Probiotic-Fermented Functional Foods: An Update on Their Health-Promoting Properties

Numerous studies have shown a link between the consumption of fermented dairy foods and improved health outcomes. Since the early 2000s, especially probiotic-based fermented functional foods, have had a revival in popularity, mostly as a consequence of claims made about their health benefits. Among them, fermented dairy foods have been associated with obesity prevention and in other conditions such as chronic diarrhea, hypersensitivity, irritable bowel syndrome, Helicobacter pylori infection, lactose intolerance, and gastroenteritis which all are intimately linked with an unhealthy way of life. A malfunctioning inflammatory response may affect the intestinal epithelial barrier’s ability to function by interfering with the normal metabolic processes. In this regard, several studies have shown that fermented dairy probiotics products improve human health by stimulating the growth of good bacteria in the gut at the same time increasing the production of metabolic byproducts. The fermented functional food matrix around probiotic bacteria plays an important role in the survival of these strains by buffering and protecting them from intestinal conditions such as low pH, bile acids, and other harsh conditions. On average, cultured dairy products included higher concentrations of lactic acid bacteria, with some products having as much as 109/mL or g. The focus of this review is on fermented dairy foods and associated probiotic products and their mechanisms of action, including their impact on microbiota and regulation of the immune system. First, we discussed whey and whey-based fermented products, as well as the organisms associated with them. Followed by the role of probiotics, fermented-product-mediated modulation of dendritic cells, natural killer cells, neutrophils, cytokines, immunoglobulins, and reinforcement of gut barrier functions through tight junction. In turn, providing the ample evidence that supports their benefits for gastrointestinal health and related disorders.

Exopolysaccharides from Marine Microbes: Source, Structure and Application

The unique living environment of marine microorganisms endows them with the potential to produce novel chemical compounds with various biological activities. Among them, the exopolysaccharides produced by marine microbes are an important factor for them to survive in these extreme environments. Up to now, exopolysaccharides from marine microbes, especially from extremophiles, have attracted more and more attention due to their structural complexity, biodegradability, biological activities, and biocompatibility. With the development of culture and separation methods, an increasing number of novel exopolysaccharides are being found and investigated. Here, the source, structure and biological activities of exopolysaccharides, as well as their potential applications in environmental restoration fields of the last decade are summarized, indicating the commercial potential of these versatile EPS in different areas, such as food, cosmetic, and biomedical industries, and also in environmental remediation.

Oxidative stress alleviating potential of galactan exopolysaccharide from Weissella confusa KR780676 in yeast model system

In the present study, galactan exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Weissella confusa KR780676 was evaluated for its potential to alleviate oxidative stress using in vitro assays and in vivo studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (wild type) and its antioxidant (sod1∆, sod2∆, tsa1∆, cta2∆ and ctt1∆), anti-apoptotic (pep4∆ and fis1∆) and anti-aging (sod2∆, tsa1∆ and ctt1∆)) isogenic gene deletion mutants. Galactan exhibited strong DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging activity with an IC₅₀ value of 450 and 138 µg/mL respectively. In the yeast mutant model, oxidative stress generated by H₂O₂ was extensively scavenged by galactan in the medium as confirmed using spot assays followed by fluorescencent DCF-DA staining and microscopic studies. Galactan treatment resulted in reduction in the ROS generated in the yeast mutant cells as demonstrated by decreased fluorescence intensity. Furthermore, galactan exhibited protection against oxidative damage through H₂O₂ -induced apoptosis inhibition in the yeast mutant strains (pep4∆ and fis1∆) leading to increased survival rate by neutralizing the oxidative stress. In the chronological life span assay, WT cells treated with galactan EPS showed 8% increase in viability whereas sod2∆ mutant showed 10–15% increase indicating pronounced anti-aging effects. Galactan from W. confusa KR780676 has immense potential to be used as a natural antioxidant for nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and food technological applications. As per our knowledge, this is the first report on in-depth assessment of in vivo antioxidant properties of a bacterial EPS in a yeast deletion model system.

Long-term tea consumption reduces the risk of frailty in older Chinese people: Result from a 6-year longitudinal study

Background

Vast accumulative evidence suggests that the consumption of tea and its components have various potential health benefits. This study used a longitudinal study to examine the causality between tea consumption and frailty in older Chinese people.

Methods

This study employed the longitudinal data from 2008 to 2014 of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), which were systematically collected through face-to-face interviews. Two thousand four hundred and seventy three participants completed six-follow-up surveys in 2014 and were analyzed in this study. The frailty index recommended by Searle and co-authors, including 44 health deficits, was used. A Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) was applied to determine the risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for frailty, and further subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate whether the risk differed stratified by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Additionally, the interaction between tea consumption with sex and frailty was tested.

Results

Of the 2,473 participants, 14.1% were consistent daily tea drinkers, and 22.6% reported frailty at the 6-year follow-up. Compared to non-tea drinkers, consistent daily tea drinkers reported a significantly lower ratio of having frailty [risk ratio (RR) = 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.38-0.78], adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health behavior, socioeconomic status, and chronic illnesses. In further subgroup analyses, consistent daily tea consumption significantly reduced the risk of frailty for males (RR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.32-0.87) but not females (RR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.37-1.12); in the young (RR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.22-0.74) but not in the oldest (aged ≥ 80) (RR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.40-1.06); informal education (RR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28-0.84) but not formal education (RR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.37-1.03); financial dependence (RR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.25-0.71) but not financial independence (RR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.41-1.23). Additionally, females showed a lower tea-mediated risk of frailty in occasional tea consumers (RR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.29-0.89) and inconsistent tea drinkers (RR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.37-0.93).

Conclusions

Habitual tea consumption can reduce the risk of frailty in older Chinese, and the benefit varied by age, sex, education, and financial support.

An Oligomannuronic Acid-Sialic Acid Conjugate Capable of Inhibiting Aβ42 Aggregation and Alleviating the Inflammatory Response of BV-2 Microglia

Oligomannuronic acid (MOS) from seaweed has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, MOS was activated at the terminal to obtain three different graft complexes modified with sialic acid moiety (MOS-Sia). The results show that MOS-Sia addition can reduce the β-structure formation of Aβ42, and the binding effect of MOS-Sia3 is more obvious. MOS-Sia conjugates also have a better complexing effect with Ca²⁺ while reducing the formation of Aβ42 oligomers in solutions. MOS-Sia3 (25–50 μg/mL) can effectively inhibit the activation state of BV-2 cells stimulated by Aβ42, whereas a higher dose of MOS-Sia3 (>50 μg/mL) can inhibit the proliferation of BV-2 cells to a certain extent. A lower dose of MOS-Sia3 can also inhibit the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and other proinflammatory factors in BV-2 cells induced by Aβ42 activation. In the future, the MOS-Sia3 conjugate can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Essential tremor

Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common movement disorders, with a reported >60 million affected individuals worldwide. The definition and underlying pathophysiology of ET are contentious. Patients present primarily with motor features such as postural and action tremors, but may also have other non-motor features, including cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Genetics account for most of the ET risk but environmental factors may also be involved. However, the variable penetrance and challenges in validating data make gene-environment analysis difficult. Structural changes in cerebellar Purkinje cells and neighbouring neuronal populations have been observed in post-mortem studies, and other studies have found GABAergic dysfunction and dysregulation of the cerebellar-thalamic-cortical circuitry. Commonly prescribed medications include propranolol and primidone. Deep brain stimulation and ultrasound thalamotomy are surgical options in patients with medically intractable ET. Further research in post-mortem studies, and animal and cell-based models may help identify new pathophysiological clues and therapeutic targets and, together with advances in omics and machine learning, may facilitate the development of precision medicine for patients with ET.

A Systematic Study of the Antioxidant Capacity of Humic Substances against Peroxyl Radicals: Relation to Structure

Humic substances (HS) are natural supramolecular systems of high- and low-molecular-weight compounds with distinct immunomodulatory and protective properties. The key beneficial biological activity of HS is their antioxidant activity. However, systematic studies of the antioxidant activity of HS against biologically relevant peroxyl radicals are still scarce. The main objective of this work was to estimate the antioxidant capacity (AOC) of a broad set of HS widely differing in structure using an oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC) assay. For this purpose, 25 samples of soil, peat, coal, and aquatic HS and humic-like substances were characterized using elemental analysis and quantitative ¹³C solution-state NMR. The Folin–Ciocalteu method was used to quantify total phenol (TP) content in HS. The determined AOC values varied in the range of 0.31–2.56 μmol Trolox eqv. mg⁻¹, which is close to the values for ascorbic acid and vitamin E. Forward stepwise regression was used to reveal the four main factors contributing to the AOC value of HS: atomic C/N ratio, content of O-substituted methine and methoxyl groups, and TP. The results obtained clearly demonstrate the dependence of the AOC of HS on both phenolic and non-phenolic moieties in their structure, including carbohydrate fragments.

The Application of Seaweed Polysaccharides and Their Derived Products with Potential for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Neurodegenerative diseases are among the most widespread diseases affecting humans, and the number of patients is only rising. Seaweed polysaccharide extracts show significant neuroprotective and reparative activities. Seaweed polysaccharides might provide the next big breakthrough in neurodegenerative disease treatment. This paper reviews the applications of seaweed polysaccharides as potential treatments of neurodegenerative diseases. The particular focus is on fucoidan, ulvan, and their derivatives as potential agents to treat Alzheimer's disease. This review provides a critical update on the progress in this important research area.

Frailty Severity and Cognitive Impairment Associated with Dietary Diversity in Older Adults in Taiwan

This study aims to investigate whether frailty severity in conjunction with cognitive function, termed as” cognitive frailty”, is associated with dietary diversity in older adults. This cross-sectional study used the data from the 2014–2016 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (N = 1115; age ≥ 65 years). Dietary intake was assessed using a 24 h dietary recall and food-frequency questionnaire, and dietary diversity score (DDS; range, 0–6) and food intake frequency were calculated. The presence of frailty phenotypes was determined using the FRAIL scale, which was proposed by the International Association of Nutrition and Aging, and cognitive function was assessed using the Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. The prevalence of cognitive frailty (FRAIL scale score ≥ 3 and MMSE score ≤ 26) was 4.2%. A higher consumption frequency of dairy products, whole grains, vegetables, fruit, fish and seafood, nuts, tea, and coffee, as well as lower pickled vegetable, was inversely associated with cognitive frailty. Those with prefrailty or frailty and lower DDS demonstrated a higher cognitive impairment risk (adjust odds ratio (OR) = 2.15, 95% confidence interval = 1.21–3.83) than those without frailty and higher DDS. Older adults with cognitive prefrailty or cognitive frailty were associated with lower DDS, and frailty with lower DDS was associated with worsening cognitive function.

Characterization of lactic acid bacteria derived exopolysaccharides for use as a defined neuroprotective agent against amyloid beta1-42-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disease characterized by cerebral neuronal degeneration and loss in a progressive manner. Amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain is toxic to neurons, being a main risk factor for initiation and continuation of cognitive deterioration in AD. Neurotoxicity of Aβ origin is also linked to oxidative stress characterized by excessive lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, changes in antioxidant systems, and cerebral DNA damage in AD. Furthermore, Aβ can induce oxidative neuronal cell death by a mitochondrial dysfunction. Cellular injury caused by oxidative stress can be possibly prevented by boosting or promoting bodily oxidative defense system by supplying antioxidants in diet or as medications. However, most synthetic antioxidants are found to have cytotoxicity, which prevents their safe use, and limits their administration. For this reason, more attention has been paid to the natural non-toxic antioxidants. One of the most promising groups of non-toxic antioxidative compounds is thought to be polysaccharides. This study investigated the characterization and protective action exerted by exopolysaccharides (EPSs) originated from Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus B3 and Lactobacillus plantarum GD2 to protect from apoptotic activity exerted by Aβ1-42 among SH-SY5Y cells. We characterized EPSs by elemental analysis, FTIR, AFM, SEM, and XRD. The antioxidant effects of EPSs were determined by the DPPH free radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, metal ion chelating activity, lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity, and superoxide anion scavenging activity method. The protective effects of EPSs were determined by flow cytometry and RT-PCR. Mannose ratio, molecular weight, functional groups, surface morphology, and amorphous character structure of EPSs are thought to play a role in the protective effect of EPSs. EPSs reduced apoptotic activity of Aβ1-42 in addition to their depolarizing effect on mitochondrial membrane potential in concentration-dependent manner. These observations contribute the inclusion of EPSs among the therapeutic options used to manage various neurological disorders in the traditional medicine in a scientific manner, indicating that EPSs may be promising natural chemical constituents that need advanced research and development for pharmacological therapy of AD.

Antioxidant and anti-aging effects of a sea cucumber protein hydrolyzate and bioinformatic characterization of its composing peptides

C. elegans-based activity guided and size-based isolation of antioxidant peptide fractions from a sea cucumber protein hydrolyzate and their bioinformatic characterization.

The Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharides Derived from Marine Organisms: An Overview

Marine-derived antioxidant polysaccharides have aroused extensive attention because of their potential nutritional and therapeutic benefits. However, the comprehensive comparison of identified marine-derived antioxidant polysaccharides is still inaccessible, which would facilitate the discovery of more efficient antioxidants from marine organisms. Thus, this review summarizes the sources, chemical composition, structural characteristics, and antioxidant capacity of marine antioxidant polysaccharides, as well as their protective in vivo effects mediated by antioxidative stress reported in the last few years (2013-2019), and especially highlights the dominant role of marine algae as antioxidant polysaccharide source. In addition, the relationships between the chemical composition and structural characteristics of marine antioxidant polysaccharides with their antioxidant capacity were also discussed. The antioxidant activity was found to be determined by multiple factors, including molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, sulfate position and its degree.

Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia and Bilateral Vestibular Hypofunction: Balance, Gait, and Eye Movement Before and After Multimodal Chiropractic Care: A Case Study

Objective

The purpose of this report is to describe care of a patient with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia and bilateral vestibular hypofunction.

Clinical Features

A 66-year-old patient presented with limited eye movement and mild ptosis, which led to a diagnosis of chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia. Rotary chair testing suggested vestibular involvement. Other symptoms included dizziness, problems with balance, and chronic stiffness in his cervical and thoracic regions. He had anxiety about loss of function and limited exercise habits because of fear of falling. Examination methods included balance assessment, kinetic aspects of walking, and videonystagmography.

Intervention and Outcome

He had already begun regular practice of vestibular rehabilitation exercises before receiving 18 sessions of manual and instrument-assisted chiropractic manipulation, along with mobilization, stretching, and transverse massage, over 37 weeks. In addition to self-reported improvements, there was substantially decreased postural sway during balance assessment and there were small improvements in eye movement, ptosis, and walking.

Conclusion

This patient showed improvements in balance, eye movements, and walking while undergoing multimodal chiropractic care and practicing eye and balance exercises.

Etiologic links between environmental and lifestyle factors and Essential tremor

Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common adult movement disorders, characterized by clinical tremor and other nonmotor symptoms. It is a progressive disease that shares features with other neurodegenerative diseases. ET is a complex disease with both genetic and environmental underpinnings. While genetic forms of ET are well recognized, the role of environmental and lifestyle factors in ET has been debated. Studies suggest that exposure to neurotoxic compounds such as β-carboline alkaloids and ethanol are potential risk factors for ET, while antioxidant intake may be protective. In addition, smoking acts as a protective factor in ET, parallel to its effects in other neurological diseases. New evidence points to pesticide and lead exposure as potential risk factors. There is growing evidence to suggest that environmental and lifestyle factors play a role in ET but additional research is needed in order to completely understand their cause and effect association. There is also a need for larger case-control and prospective cohort studies across different populations to further evaluate the etiological importance of these factors in ET.

Extraction Optimization and Effects of Extraction Methods on the Chemical Structures and Antioxidant Activities of Polysaccharides from Snow Chrysanthemum (Coreopsis Tinctoria)

In order to explore snow chrysanthemum polysaccharides (SCPs) as functional food ingredients and natural antioxidants for industrial applications, both microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) were firstly optimized for the extraction of SCPs. Furthermore, the effects of conventional hot water extraction, UAE, and MAE on the chemical structures and antioxidant activities of SCPs were investigated. The maximum extraction yields of SCPs extracted by UAE (4.13 ± 0.24%) and MAE (4.26 ± 0.21%) were achieved at the optimized extraction parameters as follows: ultrasound amplitude (68%) and microwave power (500 W), ultrasound extraction time (21 min) and microwave extraction time (6.5 min), and ratio of liquid to raw material (42.0 mL/g for UAE and 59.0 mL/g for MAE). In addition, different extraction methods significantly affected the contents of uronic acids, the molecular weights, the molar ratio of constituent monosaccharides, and the degree of esterification of SCPs. SCPs exhibited remarkable DPPH (IC50 ≤ 1.702 mg/mL), ABTS (IC50 ≤ 1.121 mg/mL), and nitric oxide (IC50 ≤ 0.277 mg/mL) radical scavenging activities, as well as reducing power (≥ 80.17 ± 4.8 μg Trolox/mg), which suggested that SCPs might be one of the major contributors toward the antioxidant activities of snow chrysanthemum tea. The high antioxidant activities (DPPH, IC50 = 0.693 mg/mL; ABTS, IC50 = 0.299 mg/mL; nitric oxide, IC50 = 0.105 mg/mL; and reducing power, 127.79 ± 2.57 μg Trolox/mg) observed in SCP-M extracted by the MAE method might be partially attributed to its low molecular weight and high content of unmethylated galacturonic acids. Results suggested that the MAE method could be an efficient technique for the extraction of SCPs with high antioxidant activity, and SCPs could be further explored as natural antioxidants for industrial application.

Structural characterization, antioxidant activity, and antiglycation activity of polysaccharides from different chrysanthemum teas

In this study, structural characteristics, antioxidant activity, and antiglycation activity of polysaccharides from different chrysanthemum teas were investigated and compared.

Novel Bioactive Peptides from Meretrix meretrix Protect Caenorhabditis elegans against Free Radical-Induced Oxidative Stress through the Stress Response Factor DAF-16/FOXO

The hard clam Meretrix meretrix, which has been traditionally used as medicine and seafood, was used in this study to isolate antioxidant peptides. First, a peptide-rich extract was tested for its protective effect against paraquat-induced oxidative stress using the nematode model Caenorhabditis elegans. Then, three novel antioxidant peptides; MmP4 (LSDRLEETGGASS), MmP11 (KEGCREPETEKGHR) and MmP19 (IVTNWDDMEK), were identified and were found to increase the resistance of nematodes against paraquat. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that MmP4 was predominantly in beta-sheet conformation, while MmP11 and MmP19 were primarily in random coil conformation. Using transgenic nematode models, the peptides were shown to promote nuclear translocation of the DAF-16/FOXO transcription factor, a pivotal regulator of stress response and lifespan, and induce the expression of superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD-3), an antioxidant enzyme. Analysis of DAF-16 target genes by real-time PCR reveals that sod-3 was up-regulated by MmP4, MmP11 and MmP19 while ctl-1 and ctl-2 were also up-regulated by MmP4. Further examination of daf-16 using RNA interference suggests that the peptide-increased resistance of C. elegans to oxidative stress was DAF-16 dependent. Taken together, these data demonstrate the antioxidant activity of M. meretrix peptides, which are associated with activation of the stress response factor DAF-16 and regulation of the antioxidant enzyme genes.

Application of near infrared spectroscopy for rapid determination the geographical regions and polysaccharides contents of Lentinula edodes

In this study, a calibration model based on Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) technique and chemometrics method was developed for rapid and non-destructive detecting the polysaccharide contents of lentinula edodes samples collected from different regions. The polysaccharide contents of these samples were firstly determined by standard phenol-sulphruic acid method. Then, NIR spectra of these samples were collected by using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. Based on these experimental data, a random forest method was further used to distinguish the regions of these samples, with a classification accuracy of 96.6%. After that, a rapid, accurate, and quantitative model was established for predicting the polysaccharide contents of these samples. In the model establishing process, some signal pre-treatment methods were optimized, and the validation results with highest determination coefficient (R²) and low root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) were, 0.925 and 0.720, respectively. These results showed that combined NIR technique with chemometrics was an effective and green method for lentinula edodes quality control.

Resveratrol Attenuates Cognitive Deficits of Traumatic Brain Injury by Activating p38 Signaling in the Brain

BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by cognitive deficits, which was associated with brain oxidative stress and apoptosis. Resveratrol (RSV) is an anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative. This study aimed to investigate neuroprotective effects and involved molecular mechanisms in TBI. MATERIAL AND METHODS RSV and p38 inhibitor were administrated to TBI rats. Cognitive deficits were evaluated by Morris water maze assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis were detected in rat brains by fluorescent staining. Western blotting was used to assess the phosphorylation of p38 and the expression levels of Nrf2, HO1, and activated caspase-3. RESULTS RSV administration attenuated cognitive deficits of TBI rats. The ROS generation and apoptosis in the brain of TBI rats were suppressed by RSV treatment. Moreover, RSV treatment recovered activation of p38/Nrf2/HO1 signaling pathway. The co-administration of p38 inhibitor impaired RSV's attenuating effects on cognitive deficits, brain apoptosis, and ROS generation. CONCLUSIONS RSV attenuated cognitive deficits of TBI by inhibiting oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis via targeting p38/Nrf2 signaling.

Purification and activity characterization of polysaccharides in the medicinal lichen Umbilicaria tornata from Taibai Mountain, China

Water-soluble polysaccharides from Umbilicaria tornata (UTP) were purified and preliminarily characterized. The antioxidant and antitumor activities of crude UTP and two purified fractions (UTP-1 and UTP-2) were evaluated using in vitro experiments. The results showed that the molecular weights of UTP-1 and UTP-2 were 84.86 and 28.66 kDa, respectively. Both UTP-1 and UTP-2 were composed of glucose and xylose, with their molar ratios being 1.3:0.9 and 0.9:4.6, respectively. In addition, crude UTP, UTP-1 and UTP-2 showed dose-dependent DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging and reducing activities. However, crude UTP exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than UTP-1 and UTP-2, particularly in terms of DPPH radicals. Crude UTP and the two purified fractions inhibited the growth of HeLa, HepG2, A375, MCF-7, SGC7901 and Caco2 cancer cells in vitro. Compared with UTP-1 and UTP-2, crude UTP presented significantly higher antitumor activity in vitro against HeLa and HepG2 cells (p < 0.05). These findings provide a scientific basis for the deeper exploration and resource development of U. tornata.