Chemopreventive properties of dietary rice bran: current status and future prospects

Evaluation of the trade-off between variety, processing, and low-GI claim in ready-to-eat rice

An increasing number of consumers demand healthier, more convenient, and sustainable food products, including rice, a staple worldwide. Food manufacturers have responded to this trend by considering food's intrinsic and extrinsic aspects. This study evaluated the importance of variety, processing, and claims on willingness to try ready-to-eat rice (RTE-rice). It also analyses the influence of consumer attitudes on the importance of attributes and willingness to try. The results showed that processing significantly influenced willingness to try RTE-rice, revealing consumers' greater preference for whole grain than milled rice with added bran. Claims had the least relevant importance. However, low glycaemic index had a positive impact, indicating its potential to influence consumer purchasing attitudes and promote healthier rice consumption. Additionally, three groups were created based on attitudinal factors. Naturalness-oriented and convenience-oriented groups were more likely to try RTE-rice. However, the reasons that motivate them may be different; this latter could be the ease of the service offered, while for the group focused on naturalness, they may have perceived through the ingredients and claimed that the product, despite being convenient, can bring benefits, thus perceiving them as natural.

Fabrication and characterization of transdermal delivery of ribociclib nanoemulgel in breast cancer treatment

The objective of this study is to create a nanoemulgel formulation of Ribociclib (RIBO), a highly selective inhibitor of CDK4/6 through the utilization of spontaneous emulsification method. An experimental investigation was conducted to construct pseudo-ternary phase diagram for the most favourable formulation utilizing rice bran oil, which is known for its diverse anticancer properties. The formulation consisted of varying combination of the surfactant and as the co-surfactant (Tween 80 and Transcutol, respectively) referred to as Smix and the trials were optimized to get the desired outcome. The nanoemulsion (NE) formulations that were developed exhibited a droplet size of 179.39 nm, accompanied with a PDI of 0.211. According to the data released by Opt-RIBO-NE, it can be inferred that the Higuchi model had the most favourable fit among many kinetics models considered. The results indicate that the use of nanogel preparations for the topical delivery of RIBO in breast cancer therapy, specifically RIBO-NE-G, is viable. This is supported by the extended release of the RIBO, and the appropriate level of drug permeation observed in Opt-RIBO-NE-G. Due to RIBO and Rice Bran oil, RIBO-NE-G had greater antioxidant activity, indicating its effectiveness as antioxidants. The stability of the RIBO-NE-G was observed over a period of three months, indicating a favourable shelf life. Therefore, this study proposes the utilization of an optimized formulation of RIBO-NE-G may enhance the efficacy of anticancer treatment and mitigate the occurrence of systemic side effects in breast cancer patients, as compared to the use of suspension preparation of RIBO.

Dietary rice bran attenuates hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis in mice through enhancing antioxidant ability

Various endogenous and exogenous stimuli can result in an inflammatory response and collagen deposition in the liver, which affect liver function and increase the risk of developing liver cirrhosis and cancer. Rice bran, the main by-product of rice milling, contains various nutrients which possess hepatoprotective activities. In this study, we investigated the effects of rice bran on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Mice were fed a rice-bran-containing diet (10% rice bran w/w) or a standard diet with or without an injection of 20% CCl4 to induce liver fibrosis. Our results showed that feeding a rice-bran-containing diet could alleviate CCl4-induced liver damage, collagen deposition, and expressions of fibrosis-related genes, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen 1a2 (COL1A2), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in liver tissues. Moreover, consumption of rice bran enhanced phase II detoxification and antioxidant gene expressions, including Gsta3, Gstp1, Catalase, SOD1, SOD2, and SOD3. Treatment with γ-oryzanol, the major bioactive compound in rice bran, decreased the sensitivity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to TGF-β1-induced α-SMA, COL1A2, and phosphorylated smad2 expressions. In conclusion, a rice-bran-containing diet may have beneficial effects on liver fibrogenesis through increased antioxidant and detoxification activities. γ-Oryzanol, the major bioactive compound of rice bran, can inhibit activation of HSCs.

Rice Bran Oil Improves Emphysema in Cigarette Smoke Extract-Induced Mice through Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidative Effects

Lung inflammation and alveolar enlargement are the major pathological conditions of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Rice bran oil (RBO), a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidative agent, has been used for therapeutic purposes in several inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effect of RBO on a cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced emphysema model in mice. The results indicated that CSE significantly induced airspace enlargement in mouse lung. Increased inflammatory cells, macrophage, and TNF-alpha levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were noticed in CSE-treated mice. RBO (low and high dose)-supplemented mice showed decreased total BALF inflammatory cell, macrophage, and neutrophil numbers and TNF-alpha levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, the administration of RBO decreased the mean linear alveolar intercept (MLI) in the CSE-treated group. Additionally, RBO treatment significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity in both mouse BALF and serum. However, RBO did not have an effect on the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. These findings suggested that RBO treatment ameliorates lung inflammation in a CSE-induced emphysema mice model through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways. Therefore, the supplementation of RBO could be a new potential therapeutic to relieve the severity of COPD.

α-Tocotrienol in rice bran enhances steroidogenesis in mouse Leydig cell via increased gene expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and induction of its mitochondrial translocation

Rice is a staple food in the Asian region and one of the world's major energy sources. Testosterone is a steroid hormone that maintains physical, sexual, and cognitive ability, and its decline causes health problems like late-onset hypogonadism. Evaluation of various grain extracts showed rice bran to stimulate testosterone secretion from Leydig model cells. α-Tocotrienol was found as a bioactive compound in rice bran, and mechanistic analysis showed the stimulation of steroid hormone synthesis through enhanced gene expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein as well as inducing mitochondrial localization of the protein. Preliminary study showed an increasing trend in serum testosterone levels in mice by oral intake of α-tocotrienol. These results suggest that α-tocotrienol intake may be effective in preventing symptoms caused by low testosterone levels.

Exploring Rice Consumption Habits and Determinants of Choice, Aiming for the Development and Promotion of Rice Products with a Low Glycaemic Index

Current consumption drivers, particularly those related to health and wellbeing, have been influencing trends for the lower consumption of cereals, particularly rice, due to their typical high glycaemic index (GIs) and consequent impacts on obesity. To satisfy this consumer concern, more food innovations that promote healthy eating habits are required. Such innovations must be consumer-oriented to succeed, understanding the dynamics of consumer habits and responding to consumer expectations. This study explored these habits, from acquisition to consumption practices, and the expectations of the European market from the perspective of the major European consumer, Portugal, to obtain insights that support the development of low glycaemic index (GI) rice products. A mixed-methods approach was applied. For the first quantitative questionnaire, 256 Portuguese rice consumers aged 18-73 years were recruited. Twenty-four individuals were selected according to their gender and rice consumption profiles for in-depth interviews. The results confirmed that rice was the main side dish for the participants and was mainly consumed at home, cooked from raw milled rice. The drivers of consumption differ according to the provisioning process stage. In the acquisition stage, participants reported benefits from the rice's dynamic market by comparing products on price, brand, and rice types. In the preparation stage, participants reported the adequacy of the recipe and occasion, while in the consumption stage, participants enhanced their sensory preferences, depending on the rice dish. Although the GI concept was unknown to half of the participants, it was perceived as interesting and positive for healthy eating. Consumers showed concern about the taste and naturalness of the product, preferring it to be as close to a homemade dish as possible. The negative perceptions we verified were interpreted to be due to a lack of knowledge about the GI concept. Therefore, awareness actions and informative campaigns are recommended to promote low-GI rice products.

Antimicrobial Effects of Plant-Based Supplements on Gut Microbial Diversity in Small Ruminants

Every year in the United States, approximately 48 million people are affected by bacterial illnesses that are transmitted through food, leading to 3000 fatalities. These illnesses typically stem from food animals and their by-products, which may harbor dangerous pathogens like Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Campylobacter jejuni. Factors that contribute to contamination include manure used as a soil amendment, exposure to polluted irrigation water, and contact with animals. To improve food safety, researchers are studying pre-slaughter intervention methods to eliminate bacterial contamination in live animals. While small ruminants are vital to global agriculture and income generation for small farms, traditional feeding practices involve supplements and antibiotics to boost performance, which contributes to antibiotic resistance. Hence, researchers are looking for friendly bacterial strains that enhance both animal and human health without impacting livestock productivity. The global trend is to minimize the use of antibiotics as feed supplements, with many countries prohibiting or limiting their use. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive insight on the antioxidant capabilities, therapeutic attributes, and applications of bioactive compounds derived from sweet potato tops (SPTs), rice bran (RB) and radish tops (RTs). This overview provides an insight on plant parts that are abundant in antioxidant and prebiotic effects and could be used as value-added products in animal feed and pharmaceutical applications. This review was based on previous findings that supplementation of basal diets with natural supplements represents a multifaceted intervention that will become highly important over time. By remarkably reducing the burden of foodborne pathogens, they apply to multiple species, are cheap, do not require withdrawal periods, and can be applied at any time in food animal production.

Exploring the potential mechanisms of Yi-Yi-Fu-Zi-Bai-Jiang-San therapy on the immune-inflamed phenotype of colorectal cancer via combined network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses

BACKGROUND

The development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) is closely associated with its complex tumor microenvironment (TME). Assessment of the modified pattern of immune cell infiltration (ICI) will help increase knowledge regarding the characteristics of TME infiltration. Yi-Yi-Fu-Zi-Bai-Jiang-San (YYFZBJS) has been shown to have positive effects on the regulation of the immune microenvironment of CRC. However, its pharmacological targets and molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated.

METHODS

Network pharmacological analysis was used to identify the target of YYFZBJS in the TME of CRC. Patients with the immune-inflamed phenotype (IIP) were identified using CRC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Consensus genes were identified by intersecting YYFZBJS targets, CRC disease targets and differentially expressed genes in the CRC microenvironment. Then, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox analyses were used to identify a prognostic signature from the consensus genes. Cytoscape software was further used to build a unique herb-compound-target network diagram of the important components of YYFZBJS and prognostic gene targets. In addition, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was performed using the prognostic gene sets to explore the molecular mechanism of the prognostic genes in drug therapy for CRC IIP patients. Finally, single-cell analysis was performed to validate the expression of the prognostic genes in the TME of CRC using the TISCH2 database.

RESULTS

A total of 284 IIP patients were identified from 480 patients with CRC. A total of 35 consensus genes were identified as targets of YYFZBJS in the TME of CRC patients. An eleven-gene prognostic signature, including PIK3CG, C5AR1, PRF1, CAV1, HPGDS, PTGS2, SERPINE1, IDO1, TGFB1, CXCR2 and MMP9, was identified from the consensus genes, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCs) values of 0.84 and 0.793 for the training and test cohorts, respectively. In the herb-compound-target network, twenty-four compounds were shown to interact with the 11 prognostic genes, which were significantly enriched in the IL-17 signaling, arachidonic acid metabolism and metabolic pathways. Single-cell analysis of the prognostic genes confirmed that their abnormal expression was associated with the TME of CRC.

CONCLUSION

This study organically integrated network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses to identify prognostic genes in CRC IIP patients from the targets of YYFZBJS. Although this data mining work was limited to the study of mechanisms related to prognosis based on the immune microenvironment, the methodology provides new perspectives in the search for novel therapeutic targets of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and accurate diagnostic indicators of cancers targeted by TCMs.

Raman Multi-Omic Snapshots of Koshihikari Rice Kernels Reveal Important Molecular Diversities with Potential Benefits in Healthcare

This study exploits quantitative algorithms of Raman spectroscopy to assess, at the molecular scale, the nutritional quality of individual kernels of the Japanese short-grain rice cultivar Koshihikari in terms of amylose-to-amylopectin ratio, fractions of phenylalanine and tryptophan aromatic amino acid residues, protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, and fractions of protein secondary structures. Statistical assessments on a large number of rice kernels reveal wide distributions of the above nutritional parameters over nominally homogeneous kernel batches. This demonstrates that genetic classifications cannot catch omic fluctuations, which are strongly influenced by a number of extrinsic factors, including the location of individual grass plants within the same rice field and the level of kernel maturation. The possibility of collecting nearly real-time Raman "multi-omic snapshots" of individual rice kernels allows for the automatic (low-cost) differentiation of groups of kernels with restricted nutritional characteristics that could be used in the formulation of functional foods for specific diseases and in positively modulating the intestinal microbiota for protection against bacterial infection and cancer prevention.

Fermented Rice Bran Supplementation Inhibits LPS-Induced Osteoclast Formation and Bone Resorption in Mice

Fermented rice bran (FRB) is known to have numerous beneficial bioactivities, amongst which is its anti-inflammatory properties when used as a supplement. To determine its effects, we examined osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption caused by injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), using mice with and without FRB supplementation. The results were favorable: those that received FRB showed reduced osteoclast numbers and bone resorption compared to those with the control diet. Notably, receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA levels were shown to be lower in the LPS-treated animals with FRB supplementation. FRB's inhibitory effect on RANKL- and TNF-α-induced osteoclastogenesis was further confirmed in vitro. In culture, macrophages exhibited decreased TNF-α mRNA levels when treated with FRB extract and LPS versus treatment with LPS alone, but there was no significant change in RANKL levels in osteoblasts. We can conclude that FRB supplementation dampens the effect of LPS-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption by controlling TNF-α expression in macrophages and the direct inhibition of osteoclast formation.

Role of Biobran (Arabinoxylan Rice Bran) on Patients with Advanced Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background and objectives

Carcinoma of liver - renowned, has taken third position in world ranking, comparing to other causes for cancer-related death, however, curative treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is largely absent and even proper management of HCC patients is extremely difficult. The situation becomes more complex when HCC patients are attended by physicians in their terminal state. Arabinoxylan rice bran (biobran) is an inherent product and hemicellulose which is denatured, as well as gained by hemicellulose including a number of hydrolyzing enzymes of carbohydrate from Shiitake mushrooms. It enhances activities of different immune cells and may exert some effects in cancer patients.

Materials and methods

In this observation study, the implication of biobran was assessed in a small group of 52 HCC patients. One halves of the patient received biobran and the other halves received best supportive care (BSC).

Results

Baseline parameters in two groups were mostly comparable. During observation after 30, 60, and 90 days, a total of six, one, and one patient were alive in biobran group, respectively. The survival of cancer patients of the BSC group was comparable at these time points (6, 1, and 0, respectively) with no statistical significance. After 30 days of treatment, those who were survived in biobran group, the mean CP score was 11.00 ± 1.55 and 10.50 ± 0.84 at pretreatment and posttreatment, respectively, (p = 0.20).

Conclusion

Biobran may be of some benefit for terminal HCC, however, more studies are warranted to optimize dose and duration of therapy.

How to cite this article

Ashrafujjaman M, Mahtab MA, Noor-E-Alam SM, et al. Role of Biobran (Arabinoxylan Rice Bran) on Patients with Advanced Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2023;13(2):84-88.

Integrated Microbiota and Metabolite Changes following Rice Bran Intake during Murine Inflammatory Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer and in Colorectal Cancer Survivors

Dietary rice bran-mediated inhibition of colon carcinogenesis was demonstrated previously for carcinogen-induced rodent models via multiple anti-cancer mechanisms. This study investigated the role of dietary rice bran-mediated changes to fecal microbiota and metabolites over the time course of colon carcinogenesis and compared murine fecal metabolites to human stool metabolic profiles following rice bran consumption by colorectal cancer survivors (NCT01929122). Forty adult male BALB/c mice were subjected to azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis-associated colon carcinogenesis and randomized to control AIN93M (n = 20) or diets containing 10% w/w heat-stabilized rice bran (n = 20). Feces were serially collected for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. Fecal microbiota richness and diversity was increased in mice and humans with dietary rice bran treatment. Key drivers of differential bacterial abundances from rice bran intake in mice included Akkermansia, Lactococcus, Lachnospiraceae, and Eubacterium xylanophilum. Murine fecal metabolomics revealed 592 biochemical identities with notable changes to fatty acids, phenolics, and vitamins. Monoacylglycerols, dihydroferulate, 2-hydroxyhippurate (salicylurate), ferulic acid 4-sulfate, and vitamin B6 and E isomers significantly differed between rice bran- and control-fed mice. The kinetics of murine metabolic changes by the host and gut microbiome following rice bran consumption complemented changes observed in humans for apigenin, N-acetylhistamine, and ethylmalonate in feces. Increased enterolactone abundance is a novel diet-driven microbial metabolite fecal biomarker following rice bran consumption in mice and humans from this study. Dietary rice bran bioactivity via gut microbiome metabolism in mice and humans contributes to protection against colorectal cancer. The findings from this study provide compelling support for rice bran in clinical and public health guidelines for colorectal cancer prevention and control.

Composition, Microbiota, Mechanisms, and Anti-Obesity Properties of Rice Bran

Rice is a major cereal crop and a staple food for nearly 50% of people worldwide. Rice bran (RB) is a nutrient-rich by-product of rice processing. RB is rich in carbohydrates, fibers, proteins, lipids, minerals, and several trace elements (phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and manganese). The extraction process and storage have influenced RB extracts and RB oil's quality. The RB composition has also varied on the rice cultivars. The color of RB indicates the richness of the bioactive compounds, especially anthocyanins. γ-oryzanol, tocopherols, tocotrienols, and unsaturated fatty acids are major components of RB oil. It has been established that RB supplementation could improve the host's health status. Several preclinical and clinical studies have reported that RB has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anticolitis, and antidiabetic properties. The beneficial biological properties of RB are partially attributed to its ability to alter the host microbiome and help to maintain and restore eubiosis. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and lung disease, account for 74% of deaths worldwide. Obesity is a global health problem and is a major reason for the development of NCDs. The medical procedures for managing obesity are expensive and long-term health supplements are required to maintain a healthy weight. Thus, cost-effective natural adjuvant therapeutic strategy is crucial to treat and manage obesity. Several studies have revealed that RB could be a complementary pharmacological candidate to treat obesity. A comprehensive document with basic information and recent scientific results on the anti-obesity activity of RB and RB compounds is obligatory. Thus, the current manuscript was prepared to summarize the composition of RB and the influence of RB on the host microbiome, possible mechanisms, and preclinical and clinical studies on the anti-obesity properties of RB. This study suggested that the consumption of RB oil and dietary RB extracts might assist in managing obesity-associated health consequences. Further, extended clinical studies in several ethnic groups are required to develop dietary RB-based functional and nutritional supplements, which could serve as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy to treat obesity.

Rice Bran Lipidome Identifies Novel Phospholipids, Glycolipids, and Oxylipins with Roles in Lipid Metabolism of Hypercholesterolemic Children

SCOPE

The purpose of the study is to characterize the chemical diversity in rice bran (RB) lipidome and determines whether daily RB consumption for 4 weeks may modulate plasma lipid profiles in children.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Untargeted and targeted lipidomics via ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) are applied to identify bioactive RB lipids from a collection of 17 rice varieties. To determine the impact of RB (Calrose-USA variety) supplementation on plasma lipid profile, a secondary analysis of plasma lipidome is conducted on data recorded in a clinical study (NCT01911390, n = 18 moderately hypercholesterolemic children) before and after 4 weeks of dietary intervention with a control or RB supplemented (15 g day^-1 ) snack. Untargeted lipidomic reveals 118 lipids as the core of lipidome across all varieties among which phospholipids are abundant and oxylipins present. Phytoprostanes and phytofurans are quantified and characterized. Lipidome analysis of the children plasma following RB consumption reveals the presence of polar lipids and oxylipins alongside putative modulations in endocannabinoids associated with RB consumption.

CONCLUSION

The investigation of novel polar lipids, oxylipins, phytoprostanes, and phytofurans in RB extracts provides support for new health-promoting properties interesting for people at risk for cardiometabolic disease.

Plasma, urine, and stool metabolites in response to dietary rice bran and navy bean supplementation in adults at high-risk for colorectal cancer

Introduction

Dietary intake of whole grains and legumes and adequate physical activity (PA) have been associated with reduced colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. A single-blinded, two-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial was implemented to evaluate the impact of a 12-week dietary intervention of rice bran + navy bean supplementation and PA education on metabolite profiles and the gut microbiome among individuals at high risk of CRC.

Methods

Adults (n=20) were randomized 1:1 to dietary intervention or control. All participants received PA education at baseline. Sixteen study foods were prepared with either heat-stabilized rice bran + navy bean powder or Fibersol®-2 as a placebo. Intervention participants consumed 30 g rice bran + 30 g navy bean powder daily; those in the control group consumed 10 g placebo daily. Non-targeted metabolite profiling was performed by UPLC-MS/MS to evaluate plasma, urine, and stool at 0, 6, and 12 weeks. Stool was also analyzed for primary and secondary bile acids (BAs) and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by UPLC-MS/MS and microbial community structure via 16S amplicon sequencing. Two-way ANOVA was used to compare differences between groups for metabolites, and mixed models were used to compare differences between groups for BAs, SCFAs, and alpha and beta diversity measures of microbial community structure.

Results

Across biological matrices, the intervention resulted in changes to several amino acid and lipid metabolites, compared to control. There was a 2.33-fold difference in plasma (p<0.001) and a 3.33-fold difference in urine (p=0.008) for the amino acid S-methylcysteine at 12 weeks. Fold-differences to 4-methoxyphenol sulfate in plasma and urine after 6 and 12 weeks (p<0.001) was a novel result from this combined rice bran and navy bean intervention in people. A 2.98-fold difference in plasma (p=0.002) and a 17.74-fold difference in stool (p=0.026) was observed for the lipid octadecenedioylcarnitine at 12 weeks. For stool BAs, 3-oxocholic acid was increased at 12 weeks compared to control within a subset of individuals (mean difference 16.2 ug/uL, p=0.022). No significant differences were observed between groups for stool SCFAs or microbial community structure.

Discussion

Dietary intake of rice bran + navy beans demonstrates beneficial modulation of host and gut microbial metabolism and represents a practical and affordable means of increasing adherence to national guidelines for CRC control and prevention in a high-risk population.

Prebiotic, Antipathogenic Bacteria and Hypocholesterolemia Properties of Fermented Rice Bran Extracts Derived from Black Rice and Germinated Brown Rice

Rice bran is a rich source of health-promoting nutrition and bioactive compounds; nevertheless, the properties of rice brans depend on cultivars, ages, and preparation methods, drawing the potential of raw materials for health benefits. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the health-promoting properties of fermented rice bran extracts from cultivar black rice (H7F) and germinated brown rice (G13F), focusing on their prebiotic, antipathogenic bacteria activity and safety demonstrated in vitro and in vivo study models, respectively. Here, the screening of metabolites' change after rice bran fermentation by ATR-FTIR spectra revealed specific peaks corresponding to the composited components of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid. Then, in the in vitro study, the prebiotic capability of H7F and G13F extracts was demonstrated by a growth-promoting effect on Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis under specific acidic conditions. Furthermore, antipathogenic bacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was presented at 25 mg/mL of MIC values and 50 mg/mL of MBC of both fermented rice bran extracts, eliminating the bacteria by interfering with the biofilm formation. For safety, an acute and chronic toxicity study using Wistar rats was conducted, in which changes in the body and organ weights, histopathology of organs, blood chemistry, and hematological parameters were observed after H7F and G13F treatment. Desirably, they showed no toxicity, with a significant reduction in blood cholesterol levels in the chronic treatment of H7F and G13F. Conclusively, the overall results evidenced the health benefits of H7F and G13F related to their prebiotic and antipathogenic bacteria properties and hypocholesterolemia potential with a high level of safety. Therefore, the fermented rice bran extracts were demonstrated as potential materials for the further development of functional ingredients and health products.

Nontargeted and Targeted Metabolomics Identifies Dietary Exposure Biomarkers for Navy Bean and Rice Bran Consumption in Children and Adults

Dietary exposure biomarkers are needed for advancing knowledge on healthy foods. This study examined biomarkers for navy beans and rice bran in children and adults. Plasma, urine, stool, and study foods from dietary intervention studies were analyzed by metabolomics. A total of 38 children and 49 adults were assessed after consuming navy beans and/or rice bran for 2-, 4-, 6-, or 12 weeks. From the 138-175 metabolites modulated by diet, 11 were targeted for quantification. Trigonelline and pipecolate concentrations increased in children and adult plasma after 4 weeks compared to baseline. Increased xanthurenate (46%) was observed in children plasma after rice bran intake for 4 weeks. Study foods with navy beans had higher S-methylcysteine compared to control and supported the increased urine S-methylcysteine sulfoxide. Nontargeted metabolomics was moderately effective to identify target molecules as candidate biomarkers. Study limitations include interindividual metabolite variations before diet intervention. Validation is warranted using cross-over designs and larger sample sizes.

Inhibitory Effect of Dietary Defatted Rice Bran in an AOM/DSS-Induced Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer Experimental Animal Model

Defatted rice bran (DRB) is gaining immense popularity worldwide because of its nutritional and functional aspects. Emerging evidence suggests that DRB is a potential source of dietary fiber and phenolic compounds with numerous purported health benefits. However, less is known about its chemoprotective efficacy. In the present study, we determined and examined the nutrient composition of DRB and its chemopreventive effect on azoxymethane and dextran sulphate sodium (AOM/DSS)-induced colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CRC) in rats. The results showed the presence of several bioactive compounds, such as dietary fiber, phytic acid, and phenolic acids, in DRB. In addition, DRB supplementation reduced the progression of CRC symptoms, such as colonic shortening, disease activity index (DAI), and histopathological changes. Interestingly, a significant decrease was observed in total numbers of aberrant crypt foci (ACFs) and tumors with DRB supplementation. Furthermore, DRB supplementation suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6) and inflammatory mediators (NF-κB and COX-2) through the inactivation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. The administration of DRB revealed a negative effect on cancer cell proliferation by repressing the expression of nuclear β-catenin, cyclin D1, and c-Myc. These findings suggest that DRB supplementation mitigates chronic inflammation and cancer cell proliferation and delays tumorigenesis in rat AOM/DSS-induced colitis-associated CRC. Therefore, the establishment of DRB as a natural dietary food-derived chemopreventive agent has the potential to have a significant impact on cancer prevention in the global population.

Gender-based effect of absence of gut microbiota on the protective efficacy of Bifidobacterium longum-fermented rice bran diet against inflammation-associated colon tumorigenesis

Dietary rice bran (RB) has shown capacity to influence metabolism by modulation of gut microbiota in individuals at risk for colorectal cancer (CRC), which warranted attention for delineating mechanisms for bidirectional influences and cross-feeding between the host and RB-modified gut microbiota to reduce CRC. Accordingly, in the present study, fermented rice bran (FRB, fermented with a RB responsive microbe Bifidobacterium longum), and non-fermented RB were fed as 10% w/w (diet) to gut microbiota-intactspf or germ-free micegf to investigate comparative efficacy against inflammation-associated azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS)-induced CRC. Results indicated both microbiota-dependent and independent mechanisms for RB meditated protective efficacy against CRC that was associated with reduced neoplastic lesion size and local-mucosal/systemic inflammation, and restoration of colonic epithelial integrity. Enrichment of beneficial commensals (such as, Clostridiales, Blautia, Roseburia), phenolic metabolites (benzoate and catechol metabolism), and dietary components (ferulic acid-4 sulfate, trigonelline, and salicylate) were correlated with anti-CRC efficacy. Germ-free studies revealed gender-specific physiological variables could differentially impact CRC growth and progression. In the germ-free females, the RB dietary treatment showed a ∼72% reduction in the incidence of colonic epithelial erosion when compared to the ∼40% reduction in FRB-fed micegf . Ex vivo fermentation of RB did not parallel the localized-protective benefits of gut microbial metabolism by RB in damaged colonic tissues. Findings from this study suggest potential needs for safety considerations of fermented fiber rich foods as dietary strategies against severe inflammation-associated colon tumorigenesis (particularly with severe damage to the colonic epithelium).

Enhancement Methods of Antioxidant Capacity in Rice Bran: A Review

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a primary food that is widely consumed throughout the world, especially in Asian countries. The two main subspecies of rice are japonica and indica which are different in physical characteristics. In general, both indica and japonica rice consist of three types of grain colors, namely white, red, and black. Furthermore, rice and rice by-products contain secondary metabolites such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tocopherols that have bioactivities such as antioxidants, antimicrobial, cancer chemopreventive, antidiabetic, and hypolipidemic agents. The existence of health benefits in rice bran, especially as antioxidants, gives rice bran the opportunity to be used as a functional food. Most of the bioactive compounds in plants are found in bound form with cell wall components such as cellulose and lignin. The process of releasing bonds between bioactive components and cell wall components in rice bran can increase the antioxidant capacity. Fermentation and treatment with enzymes were able to increase the total phenolic content, total flavonoids, tocotrienols, tocopherols, and γ-oryzanol in rice bran.

Colorectal Cancer and Microbiota Modulation for Clinical Use. A Systematic Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the top contributors to the global burden of cancer incidence and mortality, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its etiology. Environmental factors may be the cause of up to 60% of the risk of developing CRC, with gut microbiota being a crucial modifiable risk factor. The microbial ecosystem plays a vital role in CRC prevention and antitumoral response through modulation of the immune system and production of short-chain fatty acids. Numerous approaches have been followed to modify the gut microbiota in order to reduce the risk of cancer development, improve treatment efficacy, and reduce side effects. This study aims to perform a systematic analysis of the published literature to elucidate whether microbiota modulation through pre-, pro-, and symbiotic treatment and/or nutritional intervention can be beneficial for patients diagnosed with CRC. Our analysis finds that some prebiotics, mainly in the form of oligo- and polysaccharides, probiotics such as lactic strain producers of short-chain fatty acids, and consumption of a Mediterranean plant-based diet may be beneficial for patients diagnosed with CRC. However, there is a need for clinical data which evaluate the modulation of gut microbiota in a safe and effective manner.

Phytochemical Profile and Chemopreventive Properties of Cooked Glutinous Purple Rice Extracts Using Cell-Based Assays and Rat Model

Purple rice has gained attention for its health promoting potential due to a high content of bioactive phytochemicals. The heat generated during cooking alters the quality and quantity of nutrients and phytochemicals in food. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical profile and chemopreventive properties of cooked glutinous purple rice using cell-based assays and a rat model. Purple rice was cooked in a rice cooker and was then further extracted with solvents to obtain dichloromethane and methanol extracts. The methanol extracts of glutinous purple rice contained great amounts of phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Protocatechuic acid (2.26–5.40 mg/g extract) and cyanidin 3-glucoside (34.3–65.7 mg/g extract) were the major phenolic acid and anthocyanin contents, respectively. After cooking, the content of anthocyanins, γ-oryzanols, and phytosterols decreased, while the amount of some phenolic acid and tocol contents increased. Methanol extracts of glutinous purple rice inhibited reactive oxygen species production about 60% in PMA-treated peripheral blood mononuclear cells, reduced nitric oxide formation in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells (26–39% inhibition), and exhibited antimutagenicity against several mutagens using the Ames test, but dichloromethane extracts presented only mild anti-inflammatory activities. Although methanol extracts induced mild mutagenicity (mutagenic index 2.0–2.5), they did not induce micronucleated hepatocyte formation and certain hepatic CYP450 isozyme activities in rats. However, the mutagenicity of the methanol extract significantly declined after cooking. In summary, the methanol extract of the cooked glutinous purple rice might be a promising cancer chemopreventive fraction, which was neither genotoxic nor posing adverse effects on phytochemical–drug interaction in rats.

Riceberry Rice Bran Protein Hydrolyzed Fractions Induced Apoptosis, Senescence and G1/S Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Colon Cancer Cell Lines

Riceberry rice bran is the part of rice that has been scrubbed out during the coloring process. There are various health benefits to be gained from foods with a high protein content. This work aimed to study the effect of hydrolyzed riceberry rice bran extracts on colon cancer cell lines compared to normal cells. The MTT assay result showed that our extract has lower cytotoxicity effects on normal cells (PCS-201-010, IC50 = 6745 µg/mL) compared to colon cancer cell lines and has a greater effect on metastatic cancer cell lines (SW-620, IC50 = 5468 µg/mL) than non-metastatic cancer cell lines (HT-29, IC50 = 6054 µg/mL). The apoptotic inductive effects of HRBE on SW-620 were observed after 72 h at a maximum rate of 76% and at maximum concentration. According to the result of the cell senescence analysis after 24 h of HRBE treatment, the percentage of HT-29 (86%) expressing SA-β-gal was much higher than that of SW-620 (32%). Consequently, the decrease in the cell population in the S and M/G2 phases indicated cell cycle arrest in HT-29 cells after being treated with HRBE. Focusing on the peptide fraction size of HRBE, the largest (>50 kDa) fraction showed the highest anticancer activity compared to other fractions. In conclusion, the hydrolyzed riceberry rice bran extract induced the apoptosis process in the metastatic cancer cells and induced the senescence process in the non-metastatic cancer cells. This observed information will be useful and applicable for medical research and colon cancer treatment in the future.

Systems seed biology to understand and manipulate rice grain quality and nutrition

Rice is one of the most essential crops since it meets the calorific needs of 3 billion people around the world. Rice seed development initiates upon fertilization, leading to the establishment of two distinct filial tissues, the endosperm and embryo, which accumulate distinct seed storage products, such as starch, storage proteins, and lipids. A range of systems biology tools deployed in dissecting the spatiotemporal dynamics of transcriptome data, methylation, and small RNA based regulation operative during seed development, influencing the accumulation of storage products was reviewed. Studies of other model systems are also considered due to the limited information on the rice transcriptome. This review highlights key genes identified through a holistic view of systems biology targeted to modify biochemical composition and influence rice grain quality and nutritional value with the target of improving rice as a functional food.

The Development of Two High-Yield and High-Quality Functional Rice Cultivars Using Marker-Assisted Selection and Conventional Breeding Methods

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important crop worldwide. Functional rice has exhibited health benefits. The aim of this study was to use marker-assisted selection (MAS) to introgress two genes, GE (giant embryo) and OsALDH7 (aldehyde dehydrogenase, golden-like endosperm) into colored rice and obtain high yield functional rice. CNY103108 and CNY103107 are two rice lines with golden-like endosperms and giant embryos. They were used as the donor parents. CNY922401, an elite purple waxy rice line, and TNGSW26, an indica red waxy rice cultivar were used as the recurrent parents. Foreground selection of the progenies was completed using functional markers for GE and OsALDH7, and background selection was completed using molecular markers to recover the background of the recurrent parents. MAS results showed a purple functional rice population (PFR) (CNY922401/CNY103108), with the recovery rate of the recurrent parental genome as 91.3%, and a red functional rice population (RFR) (TNGSW26/CNY103107) with the recovery as 89.8%. After five-season yield trials and several antioxidant activities analyses, PFR32 and RFR13 lines, which have similar yields and antioxidant activities, were selected as the recurrent parents with a golden-like endosperm and a giant embryo. For a biofortification purpose, they can become valuable products and be adapted to the current agricultural community.

The involvement of TGF-β1 /FAK/α-SMA pathway in the antifibrotic impact of rice bran oil on thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats

The objective of the current study is to investigate the effect of rice bran oil (RBO) on hepatic fibrosis as a characteristic response to persistent liver injuries. Rats were randomly allocated into five groups: the negative control group, thioacetamide (TAA) group (thioacetamide 100 mg/kg thrice weekly for two successive weeks, ip), RBO 0.2 and 0.4 groups (RBO 0.2mL and 0.4 mL/rat/day, po) and standard group (silymarin 100 mg/kg/day, po) for two weeks after TAA injection. Blood and liver tissue samples were collected for biochemical, molecular, and histological analyses. Liver functions, oxidative stress, inflammation, liver fibrosis markers were assessed. The obtained results showed that RBO reduced TAA-induced liver fibrosis and suppressed the extracellular matrix formation. Compared to the positive control group, RBO dramatically reduced total bilirubin, AST, and ALT blood levels. Furthermore, RBO reduced MDA and increased GSH contents in the liver. Simultaneously RBO downregulated the NF-κβ signaling pathway, which in turn inhibited the expression of some inflammatory mediators, including Cox-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α. RBO attenuated liver fibrosis by suppressing the biological effects of TGF-β1, α-SMA, collagen I, hydroxyproline, CTGF, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). RBO reduced liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and modulating the interplay among the TGF-β1 and FAK signal transduction. The greater dosage of 0.4 mL/kg has a more substantial impact. Hence, this investigation presents RBO as a promising antifibrotic agent in the TAA model through inhibition of TGF-β1 /FAK/α-SMA.

Rice with Multilayer Aleurone: A Larger Sink for Multiple Micronutrients

Diet-related noncommunicable diseases impose a heavy burden on human health worldwide. Rice is a good target for diet-related disease prevention strategies because it is widely consumed. Liu et al. (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 115(44):11327-11332, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1806304115 ) demonstrated that increasing the number of cell layers and thickness of putative aleurone in ta2-1 (thick aleurone 2-1) mutant rice enhances simultaneously the content of multiple micronutrients. However, the increases of aleurone-associated nutrients were not proportional to the increases in the aleurone thickness. In this study, first, cytohistological analyses and transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that the multilayer in ta2-1 exhibited aleurone cell structural features. Second, we detected an increase in insoluble fibre and insoluble bound-phenolic compounds, a shift in aleurone-specific neutral non-starch polysaccharide profile, enhancement of phytate and minerals such as iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium, sulphur, and manganese, enrichment of triacylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine but slight reduction in free fatty acid, and an increase in oleic fatty acid composition. These findings support our hypothesis that the expanded aleurone-like layers in ta2-1 maintained some of the distinctive aleurone features and composition. We provide perspectives to achieve even greater filling of this expanded micronutrient sink to provide a means for multiple micronutrient enhancements in rice.

Arsenic speciation in rice bran: Agronomic practices, postharvest fermentation, and human health risk assessment across the lifespan

Arsenic (As) exposure is a global public health concern affecting millions worldwide and stems from drinking water and foods containing As. Here, we assessed how agronomic practices and postharvest fermentation techniques influence As concentrations in rice bran, and calculated health risks from consumption. A global suite of 53 rice brans were tested for total As and speciation. Targeted quantification of inorganic As (iAs) concentrations in rice bran were used to calculate Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Lifetime Cancer Risk (LCR) across the lifespan. Mean iAs was highest in Thailand rice bran samples (0.619 mg kg^-1) and lowest in Guatemala (0.017 mg kg^-1) rice bran samples. When comparing monosodium-methanearsonate (MSMA) treated and the Native-soil counterpart under the irrigation technique Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) management, the MSMA treatment had significantly higher total As (p = 0.022), and iAs (p = 0.016). No significant differences in As concentrations were found between conventional and organic production, nor between fermented and non-fermented rice bran. Health risk assessment calculations for the highest iAs-rice bran dosage scenario for adults, children and infants exceeded THQ and LCR thresholds, and LCR was above threshold for median iAs-rice bran. This environmental exposure investigation into rice bran provides novel information with food safety guidance for an emerging global ingredient.

Food Processing Technologies to Develop Functional Foods With Enriched Bioactive Phenolic Compounds in Cereals

Cereal grains and products provide calories globally. The health benefits of cereals attributed to their diverse phenolic constituents have not been systematically explored. Post-harvest processing, such as drying, storing, and milling cereals, can alter the phenolic concentration and influence the antioxidant activity. Furthermore, cooking has been shown to degrade thermo-labile compounds. This review covers several methods for retaining and enhancing the phenolic content of cereals to develop functional foods. These include using bioprocesses such as germination, enzymatic, and fermentation treatments designed to enhance the phenolics in cereals. In addition, physical processes like extrusion, nixtamalization, and parboiling are discussed to improve the bioavailability of phenolics. Recent technologies utilizing ultrasound, micro- or nano-capsule polymers, and infrared utilizing processes are also evaluated for their effectiveness in improving the phenolics content and bio-accessibility. We also present contemporary products made from pigmented cereals that contain phenolics.

A Short Review: Bioactivity of Fermented Rice Bran

Rice bran is a by-product of the rice milling process, which refers to the processing of brown rice into polished rice. It contains a considerable amount of functional bioactive compounds. However, the utilization of these compounds is limited and calls for an effort to ferment rice bran. One of the methods that can significantly increase the added value of rice bran as well as its bioactivity is the solid-state fermentation. It can also be one of the strategies that help in the production of rice bran as a functional ingredient with higher bioactivity for health promotion.

Cereal Processing By-Products as Rich Sources of Phenolic Compounds and Their Potential Bioactivities

In today’s society, we can see a progressive paradigm shift that tends towards a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. The proof is represented by the growing interest in food loss and waste of different sectors, from the political to the academic, or even to the private sector. In order to reduce food waste and to increase sustainability, the European Union (EU) has planned a circular bioeconomy. This action plan includes an approach based on reducing, reusing, recovering, and recycling materials and energy. Every year, there are high amounts of waste and by-products resulting from agricultural producing and agro-industrial processing, impacting the environment and the socio-economic sector. Cereal food products cover over 20% of daily diet, so it can be assumed that cereal production and processing are one of the most important sectors of agri-food industries. It is estimated that the waste generated from cereal processing and manufacturing is up to 13%, a percentage that can be decreased by converting the by-products in raw materials for biofuels, biodegradable plastics, alcohols, antioxidants, food additives, or pharmaceutic ingredients due to their content in macro- and micro-nutrients or bioactive compounds. Based on the fact that diet plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of our body, it is important to capitalize on any source of bioactive compounds to which we have access. This review aims to highlight the need to recirculate by-products for the purpose of extraction and use of their key compounds, polyphenols, which have not only antioxidant effects, but also preventive and therapeutic effects against cancer. For these, it is necessary to understand the biotechnologies needed for processing the most consumed cereals, the methods of extraction of phenolic compounds, and the main effects that these compounds have, summarizing the most relevant in vitro and in vivo studies performed so far.

The nutritional profile and human health benefit of pigmented rice and the impact of post-harvest processes and product development on the nutritional components: A review

Pigmented rice has attracted considerable attention due to its nutritional value, which is in large conferred by its abundant content of phenolic compounds, considerable micronutrient concentrations, as well as its higher resistant starch and thereby slower digestibility properties. A wide range of phenolic compounds identified in pigmented rice exhibit biological activities such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. Post-harvest processes significantly reduce the levels of these phytochemicals, but recent developments in processing methods have allowed greater retention of their contents. Pigmented rice has also been converted to different products for food preservation and to derive functional foods. Profiling a large set of pigmented rice cultivars will thus not only provide new insights into the phytochemical diversity of rice and the genes underlying the vast array of secondary metabolites present in this species but also provide information concerning their nutritional benefits, which will be instrumental in breeding healthier rice. The present review mainly focuses on the nutritional composition of pigmented rice and how it can impact human health alongside the effects of post-harvest processes and product development methods to retain the ambient level of phytochemicals in the final processed form in which it is consumed.

Value-Added Metabolites from Agricultural Waste and Application of Green Extraction Techniques

The agricultural sector generates approximately 1300 million tonnes of waste annually, where up to 50% comprising of raw material are discarded without treatment. Economic development and rising living standards have increased the quantity and complexity of waste generated resulting in environmental, health and economic issues. This calls for a greener waste management system such as valorization or recovery of waste into products. For successful implementation, social acceptance is an essential component with involvement of all local stakeholders including community to learn and understand the process and objective of the implementation. The agricultural waste product manufacturing industry is expected to increase with the growing demand for organic food. Thus, proper livestock and crop waste management is vital for environmental protection. It will be essential to successfully convert waste into a sustainable product that is reusable and circulated in the system in line with the green concept of circular economy. This review identifies the commercially produced crops by-product that have been considered for valorization and implemented green extraction for recovery. We highlight the importance of social acceptance and the economic value to agricultural waste recycling. Successful implementation of these technologies will overcome current waste management problems, reduce environmental impacts of landfills, and sustainability issue for farm owners.

Daily Rice Bran Consumption for 6 Months Influences Serum Glucagon-Like Peptide 2 and Metabolite Profiles without Differences in Trace Elements and Heavy Metals in Weaning Nicaraguan Infants at 12 Months of Age

BACKGROUND

Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) is associated with chronic gut inflammation affecting nutrient absorption and development of children, primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Several studies have shown that rice bran (RB) supplementation provides nutrients and modulates gut inflammation, which may reduce risk for undernutrition.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate the effect of daily RB dietary supplementation for 6 mo on serum biomarkers in weaning infants and associated changes in serum and stool metabolites.

METHODS

A 6-mo randomized-controlled dietary intervention was conducted in a cohort of weaning 6-mo-old infants in León, Nicaragua. Anthropometric indices were obtained at 6, 8, and 12 mo. Serum and stool ionomics and metabolomics were completed at the end of the 6-mo intervention using inductively coupled plasma MS and ultra-high performance LC-tandem MS. The ɑ1-acid glycoprotein, C-reactive protein, and glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) serum EED biomarkers were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Twenty-four infants in the control group and 23 in the RB group successfully completed the 6-mo dietary intervention with 90% dietary compliance. RB participants had higher concentrations of GLP-2 as compared with control participants at 12 mo [median (IQR): 743.53 (380.54) pg/mL vs. 592.50 (223.59) pg/mL; P = 0.04]. Metabolite profiles showed significant fold differences of 39 serum metabolites and 44 stool metabolites from infants consuming RB compared with control, and with significant metabolic pathway enrichment scores of 4.7 for the tryptophan metabolic pathway, 5.7 for polyamine metabolism, and 5.7 for the fatty acid/acylcholine metabolic pathway in the RB group. No differences were detected in serum and stool trace elements or heavy metals following daily RB intake for 6 mo.

CONCLUSIONS

RB consumption influences a suite of metabolites associated with growth promotion and development, while also supporting nutrient absorption as measured by changes in serum GLP-2 in Nicaraguan infants. This clinical trial was registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02615886.

The effects of twenty-one nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function: A narrative review

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Brain health is becoming more important to the average person as the number of people with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), is rising significantly. The current Food and Drug Administration-approved pharmacotherapeutics for dementia neither cure nor halt cognitive decline; they just delay the worsening cognitive impairment. This narrative review summarizes the effects of nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed was performed to find clinical trials in humans that assessed the effects of nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function published in English between 2000 and 2021. Six independent reviewers evaluated the articles for inclusion in this review.

RESULTS

Ninety-six articles were summarized in this narrative review. In total 21 categories of nutrients and phytonutrients were included, i.e., α-lipoic acid, Bacopa monnieri, B vitamins, cholinergic precursors, vitamin D, vitamin E, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, lion's mane mushroom, N-acetyl cysteine, omega-3 fatty acids, aloe polysaccharides, Rhodiola rosea, rosemary, saffron, tart cherries, turmeric, wild yam, Withania somnifera, xanthines, and zinc. Particular noteworthy effects on cognition included memory, recollection, attention, intelligence, vocabulary, recognition, response inhibition, arousal, performance enhancement, planning, creative thinking, reaction time, vigilance, task switching, orientation to time, place, and person, reading, writing, comprehension, accuracy, learning, information processing speed, executive function, mental flexibility, daily functioning, decrease in mental fatigue, and freedom from distractibility. Some nutrients and phytonutrients also improved mood and contentedness and reduced anxiety and the need for caregiving. These effects are not completely consistent or ubiquitous across all patient populations or health statuses. Adverse effects were minimal or nonexistent.

CONCLUSION

Due to the growing population of people with cognitive impairment and the lack of effective pharmacotherapeutics, it is prudent for those afflicted or their caregivers to find alternative treatments. Our narrative review shows that many of these nutrients and phytonutrients may be promising for treating some aspects of cognitive impairment, especially for people afflicted with AD.

RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS

As demonstrated in a number of clinical trials, healthy adults and patients with various health challenges (e.g., AD, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease) exhibiting a wide range of severity in cognitive defects would be best served to consider multiple nutrients and phytonutrients to improve aspects of their cognitive function.

Impact of the phytochemicals cocktail "breast safeguard" in regulating the interplay between redox signalling and murine adenocarcinoma cell proliferation, survival and angiogenesis

Phytochemicals are natural plant extracts with a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer characteristics by acting as a cell signalling modulator. This study aims to evaluate the effect of a commercial cocktail of phytochemicals "Breast safeguard" (BSG) in upregulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes to counteract signalling pathways that promote Ehrlich cells progression. The potent antioxidant activity and total phenolics and flavonoids contents of BSG was chemically validated, BSG treated mice showed a significant reduction at the tumor size, along with significant reduction in the expression of prognostic markers CEA and TNFα and induction of cell cycle arrest at G1/S phase as well as downregulation of Ki67. BSG supplementation significantly diminished H2O2, NO, MDA levels and upregulated the expression of SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH antioxidant enzymes in plasma and tumor tissues. BSG treatment markedly activated P53/Bax/Bcl2/c-caspase 3 signalling for cell apoptosis and attenuated the expression of antiapoptotic survivin protein. Meanwhile, BSG significantly diminished the expression of VEGF as an indication of angiogenesis inhibition. In conclusion, BSG exerted a significant upregulation of antioxidant enzymes which may be involved in upregulating P53/Bax/c-caspase 3 expression and attenuation of cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

γ-Oryzanol Improves Exercise Endurance and Muscle Strength by Upregulating PPARδ and ERRγ Activity in Aged Mice

SCOPE

γ-Oryzanol, a well-known antioxidant, has been used by body builders and athletes to boost strength and increase muscle gain, without major side effects. However, the effect of γ-Oryzanol on sarcopenia and the underlying molecular mechanism is poorly understood.

RESULTS

Aged mice fed with the γ-Oryzanol diet do not show significant changes in muscle weight, but show increased running endurance as well as improved grip strength. The expression and activity of PPARδ and ERRγ are increased in skeletal muscle of γ-Oryzanol supplemented mice. γ-Oryzanol upregulates oxidative muscle fibers by MEF2 transcription factor, and PGC-1α and ERRα expressions. Fatty acid oxidation related genes and mitochondria biogenesis are upregulated by γ-Oryzanol. In addition, γ-Oryzanol inhibits TGF-β-Smad-NADPH oxidase 4 pathway and inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and p65 NF-κB subunit, which cause skeletal muscle weakness. Collectively, γ-Oryzanol attenuates muscle weakness pathway and increases oxidative capacity by increasing PPARδ and ERRγ activity, which contributes to enhance strength and improve oxidative capacity in muscles, consequently enhancing exercise capacity in aged mice. Particularly, γ-Oryzanol directly binds to PPARδ.

CONCLUSIONS

These are the first findings showing that γ-Oryzanol enhances skeletal muscle function in aged mice by regulating PPARδ and ERRγ activity without muscle gain.

The effects of twenty-four nutrients and phytonutrients on immune system function and inflammation: A narrative review

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Recently, optimal immune function has become a primary focus of worldwide attention not only in the prevention of chronic disease but also as one strategy to reduce the severity of acute illness. Inflammation, a process largely controlled by the immune system, has long been studied and recognized for its role in chronic disease. Optimizing immune function or managing inflammation using individual nutrients and phytonutrients is not well understood by the average person. Thus, this narrative literature review summarizes many of the more recent findings about how certain nutrients and phytonutrients affect immune function and inflammation, and how they may best be utilized considering the growing worldwide interest in this topic.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed was performed to find clinical trials in humans that assessed the effect of nutrients and phytonutrients on immune function and inflammation, in individuals with acute and chronic health conditions, published in English between 2000 and 2020. Two independent reviewers evaluated the articles for their inclusion.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven articles were summarized in this narrative review. In total 24 nutrients and phytonutrients were included in the study, that is, acetyl-L-carnitine, Aloe vera polysaccharides, beta-glucans, bilberry, black seed oil, coenzyme Q10, curcumin (turmeric), frankincense, garlic, ginger, hydrolyzed rice bran, isoflavones, lipoic acid, mistletoe, N-acetyl cysteine, omega-3 fatty acids, resveratrol, selenium, shiitake mushroom and its derivatives, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (d-alpha- and gamma-tocopherol), and zinc. Some of the noteworthy immune function and anti-inflammatory responses to these interventions included modulation of nuclear factor-Kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-a, interferon-g, interleukin-6, and CD4+ T cells, among others. These findings are not completely consistent or ubiquitous across all patient populations or health status.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this review, many nutrients and phytonutrients are capable of significantly modulating immune function and reducing inflammation, according to multiple biomarkers in clinical trials in different populations of adults with varying health statuses. Thus, dietary supplementation may serve as an adjunct to conventional pharmaceutical or medical therapies, but evaluation of risks and benefits for each person and health status is necessary. Additional larger studies are also needed to investigate the safety and efficacy of nutritional compounds in various health conditions, with emphases on potential drug-supplement interactions and clinical endpoints.

RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS

As demonstrated in the reviewed clinical trials, patients of various health challenges with a wide range of severity may benefit from select nutrients and phytonutrients to improve their immune function and reduce inflammation.

The Health-Promoting Properties and Clinical Applications of Rice Bran Arabinoxylan Modified with Shiitake Mushroom Enzyme-A Narrative Review

Rice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC) is derived from defatted rice bran hydrolyzed with Lentinus edodes mycelial enzyme. It has been marketed as a functional food and a nutraceutical with health-promoting properties. Some research has demonstrated this rice bran derivative to be a potent immunomodulator, which also possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-angiogenic properties. To date, research on RBAC has predominantly focused on its immunomodulatory action and application as a complementary therapy for cancer. Nonetheless, the clinical applications of RBAC can extend beyond cancer therapy. This article is a narrative review of the research on the potential benefits of RBAC for cancer and other health conditions based on the available literature. RBAC research has shown it to be useful as a complementary treatment for cancer and human immunodeficiency virus infection. It can positively modulate serum glucose, lipid and protein metabolism in diabetic patients. Additionally, RBAC has been shown to ameliorate irritable bowel syndrome and protect against liver injury caused by hepatitis or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It can potentially ease symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome and prevent the common cold. RBAC is safe to consume and has no known side effects at the typical dosage of 2–3 g/day. Nevertheless, further research in both basic studies and human clinical trials are required to investigate the clinical applications, mechanisms, and effects of RBAC.

The genetics underlying metabolic signatures in a brown rice diversity panel and their vital role in human nutrition

Brown rice (Oryza sativa) possesses various nutritionally dense bioactive phytochemicals exhibiting a wide range of antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties known to promote various human health benefits. However, despite the wide claims made about the importance of brown rice for human nutrition the underlying metabolic diversity has not been systematically explored. Non-targeted metabolite profiling of developing and mature seeds of a diverse genetic panel of 320 rice cultivars allowed quantification of 117 metabolites. The metabolite genome-wide association study (mGWAS) detected genetic variants influencing diverse metabolic targets in developing and mature seeds. We further interlinked genetic variants on chromosome 7 (6.06-6.43 Mb region) with complex epistatic genetic interactions impacting multi-dimensional nutritional targets, including complex carbohydrate starch quality, the glycemic index, antioxidant catechin, and rice grain color. Through this nutrigenomics approach rare gene bank accessions possessing genetic variants in bHLH and IPT5 genes were identified through haplotype enrichment. These variants were associated with a low glycemic index, higher catechin levels, elevated total flavonoid contents, and heightened antioxidant activity in the whole grain with elevated anti-cancer properties being confirmed in cancer cell lines. This multi-disciplinary nutrigenomics approach thus allowed us to discover the genetic basis of human health-conferring diversity in the metabolome of brown rice.

Effects of a Rice Bran Dietary Intervention on the Composition of the Intestinal Microbiota of Adults with a High Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Pilot Randomised-Controlled Trial

Rice bran exhibits chemopreventive properties that may help to prevent colorectal cancer (CRC), and a short-term rice bran dietary intervention may promote intestinal health via modification of the intestinal microbiota. We conducted a pilot, double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial to assess the feasibility of implementing a long-term (24-week) rice bran dietary intervention in Chinese subjects with a high risk of CRC, and to examine its effects on the composition of their intestinal microbiota. Forty subjects were randomised into the intervention group (n = 19) or the control group (n = 20). The intervention participants consumed 30 g of rice bran over 24-h intervals for 24 weeks, whilst the control participants consumed 30 g of rice powder on the same schedule. High rates of retention (97.5%) and compliance (≥91.3%) were observed. No adverse effects were reported. The intervention significantly enhanced the intestinal abundance of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus, and tended to increase the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and the intestinal abundance of Prevotella_9 and the health-promoting Lactobacillales and Bifidobacteria, but had no effect on bacterial diversity. Overall, a 24-week rice bran dietary intervention was feasible, and may increase intestinal health by inducing health-promoting modification of the intestinal microbiota. Further larger-scale studies involving a longer intervention duration and multiple follow-up outcome assessments are recommended.

Dietary Rice Bran-Modified Human Gut Microbial Consortia Confers Protection against Colon Carcinogenesis Following Fecal Transfaunation

Rice bran, removed from whole grain rice for white rice milling, has demonstrated efficacy for the control and suppression of colitis and colon cancer in multiple animal models. Dietary rice bran intake was shown to modify human stool metabolites as a result of modifications to metabolism by gut microbiota. In this study, human stool microbiota from colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors that consumed rice bran daily was examined by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for protection from azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS) induced colon carcinogenesis in germ-free mice. Mice transfaunated with rice bran-modified microbiota communities (RMC) harbored fewer neoplastic lesions in the colon and displayed distinct enrichment of Flavonifractor and Oscillibacter associated with colon health, and the depletion of Parabacteroides distasonis correlated with increased tumor burden. Two anti-cancer metabolites, myristoylcarnitine and palmitoylcarnitine were increased in the colon of RMC transplanted mice. Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) and tartarate that are implicated in CRC development were reduced in murine colon tissue after FMT with rice bran-modified human microbiota. Findings from this study show that rice bran modified gut microbiota from humans confers protection from colon carcinogenesis in mice and suggests integrated dietary-FMT intervention strategies should be tested for colorectal cancer control, treatment, and prevention.

Rice Bran By-Product: From Valorization Strategies to Nutritional Perspectives

The aim of this study is to review the innovative techniques based on bioprocessing, thermal or physical treatments which have been proposed during the last few decades to convert rice bran into a valuable food ingredient. Rice bran (Oryza sativa) is the main by-product of rice grain processing. It is produced in large quantities worldwide and it contains a high amount of valuable nutrients and bioactive compounds with significant health-related properties. Despite that, its application in food industry is still scarce because of its sensitivity to oxidation processes, instability and poor technological suitability. Furthermore, the health-related effects of pretreated rice bran are also presented in this review, considering the up-to-date literature focused on both in vivo and in vitro studies. Moreover, in relation to this aspect, a brief description of rice bran arabinoxylans is provided. Finally, the application of rice bran in the food industry and the main technology aspects are concisely summarized.

Antioxidative attributes of rice bran extracts in ameliorative effects of atherosclerosis-associated risk factors

Oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and shear stress (physical effect) are risk factors associated with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Rice bran, a by-product of rice milling process, is known to house polyphenols and vitamins which exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Through recent emerging knowledge of rice bran in health and wellness, the present study was aimed to assess the ameliorative effects of rice bran extracts (RBE) derived from Japanese colored rice varieties in modulating risk factors of atherosclerosis via in vitro and in vivo study models. Pre-treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine J774A.1 macrophage-like cells with RBE alleviated nitric oxide (NO) overproduction and downregulated gene expressions of pro-inflammatory modulators: tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-6, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In addition, RBE also significantly attenuated LPS-stimulated protein expressions of iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1α, and IL-6 in J774A.1 macrophage-like cells as compared to non-treated LPS control group. In in vivo, 12 weeks of RBE dietary supplementations significantly reduced (p < 0.05) total cholesterol, triglycerides, and pro-atherogenic oxidized LDL/β2-glycoprotein I (oxLDL/β2GPI) complexes at plasma levels, in high fat diet (HFD) induced low density lipoprotein receptor knockout (Ldlr^−/-) mice. En face pathological assessments of murine aortas also revealed significant reductions by 38% (p < 0.05) in plaque sizes of RBE-supplemented HFD mice groups as compared to non RBE-supplemented HFD control mice group. Moreover, gene expressions of aortic (iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β) and hepatic (TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β) pro-inflammatory modulators were also downregulated in RBE-supplemented mice groups. Present study has revealed the potent health attributes and application of RBE as a dietary supplement to attenuate risks of inadvertent oxidative damage and chronic inflammation underlying the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Intrinsically, present preliminary findings may provide global health prospects for future dietary implementation of RBE in management of atherosclerosis.

Characterization and determination of free phytosterols and phytosterol conjugates: The potential phytochemicals to classify different rice bran oil and rice bran

Phytosterols are important beneficial compounds found in rice bran (RB) and rice bran oil (RBO). Although relationships have been confirmed between the forms of phytosterols and their bioactivities, the analysis of different forms of phytosterols in RB and RBO has been lacking. In this study, high temperature gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HTGC-MS) was combined with the single standard to determine multi-components (SSDMC) method to determine free sterols (FSs) and steryl glycosides (SGs) in RB and RBO. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine steryl ferulates (SFs). There was clear variation in the composition of FS, SF and SG, indicating that different forms of phytosterols can discriminate between different RB and RBO. The developed method may be also useful for the detection of other compounds of interest in oils, oil seeds or cereals.

Targeting the tumor immune microenvironment with "nutraceuticals": From bench to clinical trials

The occurrence of immune effector cells in the tissue microenvironment during neoplastic progression is critical in determining tumor growth outcomes. On the other hand, tumors may also avoid immune system-mediated elimination by recruiting immunosuppressive leukocytes and soluble factors, which coordinate a tumor microenvironment that counteracts the efficiency of the antitumor immune response. Checkpoint inhibitor therapy results have indicated a way forward via activation of the immune system against cancer. Widespread evidence has shown that different compounds in foods, when administered as purified substances, can act as immunomodulators in humans and animals. Although there is no universally accepted definition of nutraceuticals, the term identifies a wide category of natural compounds that may impact health and disease statuses and includes purified substances from natural sources, plant extracts, dietary supplements, vitamins, phytonutrients, and various products with combinations of functional ingredients. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the immunomodulatory effects of nutraceuticals with a special focus on the cancer microenvironment, highlighting the conceptual benefits or drawbacks and subtle cell-specific effects of nutraceuticals for envisioning future therapies employing nutraceuticals as chemoadjuvants.

The phytochemical analysis and pharmacological potentials of husk and straw as paddy waste products

Rice serves as a staple food for one-half of the global population. However, rice production, particularly the rice milling process, results in a substantial amount of paddy waste products (e.g. bran, husk and straw) annually. Because the potentials of bran have been extensively explored in prior studies, the present review focuses exclusively on the phytochemical analysis and pharmacological potentials of husk and straw. This comprehensive review establishes a solid foundation for promoting husk and straw as medicinal substances given their promising pharmacological potentials as bioactive compound sources with therapeutic functions. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

A Natural Flavone Tricin from Grains Can Alleviate Tumor Growth and Lung Metastasis in Colorectal Tumor Mice

Tricin, a flavone isolated from rice bran, has been shown to be chemopreventive in a colorectal cancer (CRC) mouse model. This study aimed to illustrate the inhibitory activities of tricin in colon cancer cells and in a metastatic CRC mouse model. BALB/c mice injected with mouse Colon26-Luc cells into the rectum wall were treated with tricin (37.5 mg/kg) daily for 18 days. Orthotopic colon tumor growth and metastasis to lungs were assessed by in vivo bioluminescence imaging. Results showed that tricin suppressed Colon-Luc cells motility and downregulated phosphorylated Akt, Erk1/2 and NF-κB expressions of human colon cancer HT-29 cells. While tricin treatment suppressed tumor growth and lung metastasis as well as altered the populations of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells in spleens. In summary, the tumor microenvironment modulatory and anti-metastatic effects of tricin in colon cancer mouse model were shown for the first time, suggesting the potential development of tricin-containing food supplements for CRC patients.

GC-MS metabolomics revealed protocatechuic acid as a cytotoxic and apoptosis-inducing compound from black rice brans

GC-MS metabolomics was used to discriminate the phytochemicals profile of Indonesian white, red, and black rice brans, and Japanese white rice brans. This technique was used for the first time to identify compounds in rice brans having cytotoxic activity against WiDr colon cancer cells. Orthogonal Projection to the Latent Structure (OPLS) analysis showed that protocatechuic acid (PA) was a discriminating factor found in black rice brans which strongly correlated with its cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ 8.53 ± 0.26 µM). Real time-PCR data demonstrated that PA cytotoxicity at different concentrations (1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 µg/mL) was mediated through different pathways. Bcl-2 expression was downregulated at all tested concentrations indicating apoptosis stimulation. At 1-10 ppm concentration, PA activated both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways since the expression of p53, Bax, caspase-8, and caspase-9 were upregulated. At a higher dose (25 and 50 µg/mL), PA possibly involved in pyroptosis-mediated pro-inflammatory cell death by upregulating the expression of caspase-1 and caspase-7.