Phages for treatment of Salmonella spp infection

Salmonella, is one of the bacterial genera having more than 2500 serogroups is one of the most prominent food borne pathogen that is capable of causing disease out breaks among humans and animals. Recent reports clearly shows that this pathogen is evolved and it developed drug resistant towards most of the commercially available antibiotics. In order to overcome this emerging resistance, Bacteriophage therapy is one of the alternative solutions. It is more pathogen specific, high potency, and thereby highly safe for consumption. This chapter discuss about Rapid screening and Detection Methods Associated with Bacteriophage for Salmonella, commercially available phage products and regulatory status, Salmonella endolysins and future prospects of phage therapy.

Lutein Encapsulated in PLGA–Phospholipid Nano-Carrier Effectively Mitigates Cytokines by Inhibiting Tumor Necrosis Factor TNF-α and Nuclear Factor NF-κB in Mice Retina

Lutein, a photo- and thermo-labile macular pigment, prevents the retina from suffering ocular inflammation with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. However, its biological activity is poor due to poor solubility and bioavailability. Therefore, we developed a PLGA NCs (+PL), (poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanocarrier with phospholipid) to improve the biological availability and bioefficacy of lutein in the retina of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lutein-devoid (LD) mice. The effect of lutein-loaded NCs with/without PL was studied in comparison with micellar lutein. The induction of inflammation by LPS significantly increased the production of nitrites in the LPS-induced group, revealing higher levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the serum (760%) and retina (891%) compared to the control group. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the serum (93%) and retina (205%) of the LPS-induced group were higher compared to the control group. LPS induction resulted in increased protein carbonyls in the serum (481%) and retina (487%) of the LPS group compared to the control group. Further, to conclude, lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) effectively down-regulated inflammatory complications in the retina.

Brown algae and barley-based anti-obesity food and its safety in C57BL6 mice

Brown algae have been considered a potential source of bioactives and used as a dietary supplement to manage obesity and its associated health complications. However, its effective use is limited due to heavy metals and microbial contamination, unawareness of health benefits and limited dietary exploitation. We developed, the Indian brown algae Padina tetrastromatica and barley-based anti-obesity food (AOF) and examined for microbial and heavy metal safety. Additionally, acute [0 (control), 50, 100, 200, 500 g AOF/kg diet] and sub-acute [0, 5, 50 g AOF/kg diet] doses of AOF were fed to C57BL6 mice and toxicity was examined. The physical, locomotory, hematological, biochemical parameters and histopathology were examined. Postprandial plasma and tissue levels of fucoxanthin and its metabolites were analyzed. Feeding AOF did not affect the general behavior, food and water intake, growth or survival of animals. Biochemical indices did not show any differences between AOF-fed and control groups. However, significantly lower levels of plasma cholesterol and triglycerides in groups fed 5 and 50 g of AOF/kg diet were observed. The post-mortem examination revealed no macroscopic/microscopic alteration in the vital organs. Overall, results validate that AOF is a safe and effective dietary supplement (even at higher doses of 500 g AOF/kg) to mitigate obesity.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-022-05483-4.

Low-glycemic foods with wheat, barley and herbs (Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis) inhibit α-amylase, α-glucosidase and DPP-IV activity in high fat and low dose streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat

Wheat, barley or wheat + barley and herbs (Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis) based low-glycemic-index (low-GI) foods were developed and studied α-amylase, α-glucosidase and DPP-IV inhibition property in vitro and in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The GI of products ranged from 47 to 53 than control white bread (GI = 95). Total phenolic (20.1 ± 1 mg gallic acid/g dry wt.) and flavonoids (15.2 ± 1 mg quercetin/g dry wt.) were higher in wheat + barley than barley (17.2 ± 1; 13.6 ± 2) and wheat (16.9 ± 1; 14.9 ± 2) products. The in vitro α-amylase (4-10%), α-glucosidase (5-17%) and DPP-IV (3-26%) inhibition (IC₅₀) of methanol extracts were higher than the aqueous extracts. The fasting blood glucose (50.85, 33.22 and 24.52%) and oral glucose tolerance (AUC = 32.1, 36.04, and 27.73%) was lower in barley, wheat, and wheat + barley fed diabetic groups than diabetic control group (1571.5 ± 13.5 mg/dL/120 min). Feeding wheat, barley, and W + B foods for 60 days inhibited the intestinal α-amylase (1.2, 1.1 and 1.5-folds), α-glucosidase (1.3, 1.2 and 1.7-folds) and DPP-IV (1.6, 1.5 and 2.1-folds) activity compared to diabetic control. Low-GI foods lower the systemic glucose level, inhibit the glycolytic enzymes and DPP-IV activity and hence desirable for diabetes management.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-021-05231-0.

Microbial community composition associated with early developmental stages of the Indian white shrimp, Penaeus indicus

Gut microbiota is known to influence the physiology, health, nutrient absorption, reproduction, and other metabolic activities of aquatic organisms. Microbial composition can influence intestinal immunity and are considered as health indicators. Information on gut microbial composition provides potential application possibilities to improve shrimp health and production. In the absence of such information for Penaeus indicus, the present study reports the microbial community structure associated with its early developmental stages. Bacterial community associated with the early developmental stages (egg, nauplii, zoea, mysis, PL1, PL6 and PL12) from two hatchery cycles were analysed employing 16S rRNA high throughput sequencing. Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes, were the two dominant phyla in P. indicus development stages. Sequential sampling revealed the constant change in the bacterial composition at genus level. Alteromonas was dominant in egg and nauplii stage, whilst Ascidiaceihabitans (formerly Roseobacter) was the dominant genera in both PL6 and PL12. The bacterial composition was highly dynamic in early stages and our study suggests that the mysis stage is the critical phase in transforming the microbial composition and it gets stabilised by early post larval stages. This is the first report on the composition of microbiota in early developmental stages of P. indicus. Based on these results the formation of microbial composition seems to be influenced by feeding at early stages. The study provides valuable information to device intervention strategies for healthy seed production.

Turmeric, red pepper, and black pepper affect carotenoids solubilized micelles properties and bioaccessibility: Capsaicin/piperine improves and curcumin inhibits carotenoids uptake and transport in Caco-2 cells

This study aimed to evaluate the role of spices/spice active principles on physical, biochemical, and molecular targets of bioaccessibility/bioavailability. Carotenoids-rich micellar fraction obtained through simulated digestion of green leafy vegetables (GLV) with individual or two/three combinations were correlated to their influence on bioaccessibility, cellular uptake, and basolateral secretion of carotenoids in Caco-2 cells. Results suggest that carotenoids' bioaccessibility depends on micelles physicochemical properties, which is affected due to the presence of co-treated dietary spices and their composition. Increased bioaccessibility of β-carotene (BC) and lutein (LUT) is found in GLV (spinach) digested with turmeric (TM) than red pepper (RP) and black pepper (BP). In contrast, enhanced cellular uptake and secretion of BC and LUT-rich triglyceride-rich lipoprotein is observed in the presence of RP and BP compared to the control group. In contrast, TM inhibited absorption, while retinol levels significantly reduced in the presence of TM and RP than BP. Control cells have indicated higher cleavage of β-carotene to retinol than the spice-treated group. Besides, spice active principles modulate facilitated transport of carotenoids by scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SR-B1) protein. The effect of spices on carotenoids' bioavailability is validated with active spice principles. Overall, carotenoids' bioavailability (cellular uptake and basolateral secretion) was found in the following order of treatments; piperine > capsaicin > piperine + capsaicin > curcumin + capsaicin + piperine > control > turmeric. These findings suggested that the interaction of specific dietary factors, including spice ingredients at the enterocyte level, could provide greater insight into carotenoid absorption. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Spices/spice active principles play a role in the digestion process by stimulating digestive enzymes and bile acids secretion. Since carotenoids are lipid soluble and have low bioavailability, spice ingredients' influence on intestinal absorption of carotenoids is considered crucial. Hence, understanding the interaction of co-consumed spices on the absorption process of carotenoids may help to develop functional foods/formulation of nutraceuticals to improve their health benefits.

Lactucaxanthin protects retinal pigment epithelium from hyperglycemia-regulated hypoxia/ER stress/VEGF pathway mediated angiogenesis in ARPE-19 cell and rat model

Hyperglycemia mediated perturbations in biochemical pathways induce angiogenesis in diabetic retinopathy (DR) pathogenesis. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of lactucaxanthin, a predominant lettuce carotenoid, on hyperglycemia-mediated activation of angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo diabetic model. ARPE-19 cells cultured in 30 mM glucose concentration were treated with lactucaxanthin (5 μM and 10 μM) for 48 h. They were assessed for antioxidant enzyme activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species, and cell migration. In the animal experiment, streptozotocin-induced diabetic male Wistar rats were gavaged with lactucaxanthin (200 μM) for 8 weeks. Parameters like animal weight gain, feed intake, water intake, urine output, and fasting blood glucose level were monitored. In both models, lutein-treated groups were considered as a positive control. Hyperglycemia-mediated angiogenic marker expressions in ARPE-19 and retina of diabetic rats were quantified through the western blot technique. Expression of hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress markers, and vascular endothelial growth factor were found to be augmented in the hyperglycemia group compared to control (P < 0.05). Hyperglycemia plays a crucial role in increasing cellular migration and reactive oxygen species besides disrupting tight junction protein. Compared to lutein, lactucaxanthin aids retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function from hyperglycemia-induced stress conditions via downregulating angiogenesis markers expression. Lactucaxanthin potentiality observed in protecting tight junction protein expression via modulating reactive oxygen species found to conserve RPE integrity. Results demonstrate that lactucaxanthin exhibits robust anti-angiogenic activity for the first time and, therefore, would be useful as an alternative therapy to prevent or delay DR progression.

Abundance, community structure and diversity of nitrifying bacterial enrichments from low and high saline brackishwater environments

The study reports diversity in nitrifying microbial enrichments from low (0·5-5‰) and high (18-35‰) saline ecosystems. Microbial community profiling of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) enrichments was analysed by sequencing 16S rRNA and was processed using Mothur pipeline. The α-diversity indices showed the richness of nitrifying bacterial consortia from the high saline environment and were clustering based on the source of the sample. AOB and NOB enrichments from both the environments showed diverse lineages of phyla distributed in both groups with 38 and 34 phyla from low saline and 53 and 40 phyla in high saline sources, respectively. At class level, α- and γ-proteobacteria were found to be more dominant in both the enrichments. AOBs and NOBs in enrichments from low saline environments were dominated by Nitrosomonadaceae, Gallionellaceae (Nitrotoga sp.) and Ectothiorhodospiraceae and Nitrospira, respectively. Though Chromatiaceae were present in both AOB and NOB enrichments, Nitrosoglobus and Nitrosococcus dominated the AOBs while NOBs were dominated by uncultured genera, whereas Rhizobiales were found in both the enrichments. AOBs and NOBs in enrichments from high saline environments were dominated by Nitrospira-like AOBs, Nitrosomonas and Nitrosococcus genera, whereas ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) group included Nitrosopumilus and Nitrososphaera genera comprising and Nitrospirae, respectively. The majority of the genera obtained in both the salinities were found to be either uncultured or unclassified groups. Results of the study suggest that the AOB and NOB consortia have unique and diverse microbes in each of the enrichments, capable of functioning in aquaculture systems practised at different salinities (0-60 ppt).

Abundance, community structure and diversity of nitrifying bacterial enrichments from low and high saline brackishwater environments

The study reports diversity in nitrifying microbial enrichments from low (0.5-5‰) and high (18-35‰) saline ecosystems. Microbial community profiling of AOB and NOB enrichments were analysed by sequencing 16S rRNA and were processed using Mothur pipeline. The α-diversity indices showed the richness of nitrifying bacterial consortia from the high saline environment and were clustering based on the source of the sample. AOB and NOB enrichments from both the environments showed diverse lineages of phyla distributed in both groups with 38 and 34 phyla from low saline and 53 and 40 phyla in high saline sources respectively. At class level α and ϒ-Proteobacteria were found to be more dominant in both the enrichments. AOB and NOBs in enrichments from low saline environments were dominated by Nitrosomonadaceae, Gallionellaceae (Nitrotoga spp.) and Ectothiorhodospiraeceae and Nitrospira respectively. Though Chromatiaceae were present in both AOB and NOB enrichments Nitrosoglobus and Nitrosococcus dominated the AOB while NOB was dominated by uncultured genera, while Rhizobiales were found in both the enrichments. AOB and NOBs in enrichments from high saline environments were dominated by Nitrospira-like AOBs, Nitrosomonas and Nitrosococcus genera; while AOA group included Nitrosopumilus and Nitrososphaeraea genera comprising and Nitrospirae respectively. The majority of the genera obtained in both the salinities were found to be either uncultured or unclassified groups. Results of the study suggest that the AOB and NOB consortia have unique and diverse microbes in each of the enrichments, capable of functioning in aquaculture systems practiced at different salinities (0-60ppt).

Prognosticating patients with necrotising otitis externa based on response to treatment

INTRODUCTION

Necrotising otitis externa (NOE) is a severe infection of the temporal bone. The traditional severity based staging system does not fully prognosticate all patients with NOE. We hypothesise that a patient response staging system would more accurately capture the disease process and guide prognosis.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective notes review of patients diagnosed with NOE from January 2017 to December 2018 in a regional tertiary referral centre. Patient outcomes from our proposed patient response staging system were compared to a modified previously published severity based Gleeson staging system with patients requiring prolonged treatment classified as having a poor outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 34 patients were treated for NOE. The majority were male (n=24) and had diabetes (n=25). Patients with the most severe Gleeson staging did not have the worst outcome. Daily delay in resolution of otorrhoea was associated with an increased need for more than six weeks of treatment. Rapid responders are patients who had resolution of otalgia, otorrhoea and C-reactive protein normalisation within 14 days, and all were cured following standard 6 weeks of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The Gleeson staging system was valuable in assessing the extent of disease and all early Gleeson staged patients had good outcomes. However, patients with higher severity staging on the Gleeson system did not necessarily require prolonged treatment. There is a role for a joint approach in staging patients based on both modified Gleeson and treatment response, which would subsequently guide prognosis, duration of treatment and early diagnosis of potential fungal NOE.

Distinguishing three Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) species grown in Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India using morphological, biochemical and molecular traits

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), an important tropical fruit belonging to the family Cactaceae, is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, dietary fibres and antioxidants. This study aims to distinguish three dragon fruit species well adapted to Andaman and Nicobar Island through morphological (34 quantitative and 26 qualitative traits), biochemical (5 traits) and molecular (14 ISSR primers) characterization. Morphological characterization revealed that presence of considerable amount of genetic variations among them especially for fruit characters viz., colour of peel and pulp. Cladode characters such as number of spines (3–5), length of areoles (mm) as 1–4, margin ribs of cladode (convex or concave) and its waxiness (weak or strong white waxy or light waxy) could be used for identification of three Hylocereus spp. under present study. Highest co-efficient of variation (%) obtained for pulp weight (88.7), whereas, lowest in distance of anthers belowstigma (3.3). Fruit and pulp weight (g) ranged from 26.5–419.3 and 10.3–258.8 with mean value of 204.8 and 125.3, respectively. Comparatively, high phenol (71.3–161.3) and flavonoid (26.6–508.2) content observed in peels than pulp (32.5–130.0 and 45.0–258.2) of fruit indicating higher antioxidant potential. Highest total carotenoids (µg 100 g⁻¹), β-carotene (µg 100 g⁻¹) and xanthophyll (µg g⁻¹) content obtained in pulp on DGF3 (33.8), DGF4 (55.9) and DGF3 (32.7), whereas, in peel on DGF2 (24.3), DGF4 (18.5) and DGF2 (24.1), respectively. DPPH-based scavenging activity (%) revealed higher scavenging activity of peels (55.6–81.2) than pulp (36.0–75.3) extracts. Comparatively, ABTS-based scavenging activity (%) was found more than DPPH-based one. Sixteen ISSR primers screened, 14 were produced 178 reproducible amplified bands. Number of amplified bands varied from 5 in UBC887 to 19 in UBC811 with an average of 12.71 bands per primer. Range of polymorphic bands and % polymorphism observed were 1–13 and 20.0–92.8, respectively. The polymorphic information content value of ISSR marker ranged from 0.42 (UBC895) to 0.91 (UBC 856). Cluster analysis distinguished three different Hylocereus species on the basis of geographic origin and pulp colour by forming separate groups and two genotypes each showed 52% (DGF1 and DGF3) and 76% (DGF2 and DGF4) genetic similarity. Key traits identified for distinguishing three different Hylocereus species were: Pulp/ peel colour of fruits, number of spines and length of areoles in cladode. Genotypes with high carotenoid and xanthophylls content (DGF4 and DGF2) identified under present study may be of industrial importance for development of nutraceutical products to meet out the vitamin-A deficiency among humans in tropical regions needed future focus.

Poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide)-phospholipid nanocarrier for efficient delivery of macular pigment lutein: absorption pharmacokinetics in mice and antiproliferative effect in Hep G2 cells

Lutein has various biological activities, its application in food and pharma industries are limited due to poor aqueous solubility, stability, and bioavailability. To achieve various benefits, lutein-poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-phospholipid (PL) nanocapsules were prepared. Lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) were synthesized, characterized and its bioavailability was studied in vitro and in vivo. The cellular uptake and anti-proliferative activity were analyzed in Hep G2 cells. The mean size and zeta value of lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) were 140 ± 6 nm and - 44 mV. The amorphous nature of lutein in PLGA NCs (+PL) was confirmed by XRD and DSC. In vitro lutein release kinetics showed an initial burst followed by sustainable release up to 86%. In vitro bioavailability showed 62.7% higher lutein bioaccessibility than lutein in free form. The AUC of lutein after single oral dose of lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) revealed 3.91-fold (plasma), 2.89-fold (liver), and 3.12-fold (eyes) higher absorption than the control (mixed micelles). The IC₅₀ of lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) in Hep G2 cells at 72 h was 4.5 μM as opposed to 23.4 μM for lutein in free form. Thus, results reveal that PL added to PLGA NCs helps in enhancing the solubility which in turn resulted in its better bioavailability and bioefficacy.

Fractionation and Characterization of Lycopene-Oxidation Products by LC-MS/MS (ESI)+: Elucidation of the Chemopreventative Potency of Oxidized Lycopene in Breast-Cancer Cell Lines

Lycopene (LYC) has been correlated with the reduction of certain cancers and chronic diseases. However, the existence and biofunctionality of degraded, oxidized, and biotransformed LYC products in vivo have not been revealed. Therefore, this study aimed to screen and elucidate the potential bioactive lycopene-derived products in breast-cancer and non-cancerous cells. LYC-oxidation or -cleavage products were generated using KMnO₄. These oxidation products were separated as fractions I-III by silica column chromatography using gradient solvent systems. Further, LC-MS/MS (ESI)⁺ was used to elucidate their possible fragmentation patterns and structures. Fraction II showed higher cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ value of 64.5 μM), cellular uptake, and apoptosis-inducing activity in MCF-7 cells. This fraction consists of major peak m/ z 323, identified as apo-8,6'-carotendial. The cytotoxicity-inducing activity may be due to partial ROS generation with mitochondrial dysfunction. Further, the role of apo-8,6'-carotendial in the induction of apoptosis is demonstrated for the first time. These results illustrated that LYC-oxidation derivatives or metabolites are involved in growth inhibition of cancer cells. Exploration of specific oxidized-carotenoid products will give further insight into the field of nutritional biochemistry.

Low-dose doxorubicin with carotenoids selectively alters redox status and upregulates oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells

The combination of carotenoids and doxorubicin (DOX) selectively alters oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Primarily, cytotoxic efficiency of carotenoids (β-carotene, BC; lutein, LUT; astaxanthin, AST; or fucoxanthin, FUCO) either with or without a minimal cytotoxic dose of DOX was evaluated in MCF-7 (0.12 μM) and MDA-MB-231 cells (0.28 μM). The higher cell growth inhibition of BC and/or LUT with DOX was selected for testing in further cell-based assays. Low-dose DOX significantly enhanced cytotoxicity in carotenoid (<5 μM)-treated cells compared to high-dose DOX (>1 μM) or carotenoid (20 μM) treatment alone. Depleted glutathione, increased lipid peroxides and increased ROS levels in cells confirmed the cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction, cell growth arrest at G0/G1 phase and caspase cascades as well as up- and down-regulated expression levels of related proteins (p21, p27, Bax, p53, Bcl-2, and cyclin D1) revealed the synergistic effect of carotenoid and DOX treatment on ROS-mediated apoptosis. These observations demonstrated increased apoptosis in BC + DOX/LUT + DOX-treated cells due to the pronounced pro-oxidant action. Interestingly, normal breast epithelial cells (MCF 10A) exposed to similar treatments resulted in non-significant cytotoxicity. These newly observed mechanistic differences of anticancer drugs on the mitigation of toxicity with carotenoids may provide insight into the targeting of cancer therapy.

Polymeric chitosan-glycolipid nanocarriers for an effective delivery of marine carotenoid fucoxanthin for induction of apoptosis in human colon cancer cells (Caco-2 cells)

Fucoxanthin (FUCO), a marine carotenoid is photo-, and thermo-labile and poorly bioavailable due to its lipophilicity. Hence, we developed a chitosan (CS) + glycolipid (GL) nanogels (NGs) to increase cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of FUCO (10 μM) in human colon cells (Caco-2). Effect of FUCO loaded in NGs with/with no GL was studied in comparison with micellar FUCO. Results showed that the cell viability was lower (p < 0.05) in NGs + GL (50.5%) compared to NGs (-GL) (66.5%) and the mixed micelles (72.5%) groups over 48 h exposure. An enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was evident in NGs + GL (379.2%) group compared to NGs (-GL) and mixed micelles groups. Further, induction of apoptosis with an increased chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation as evidenced in DAPI staining and DNA ladder assay were higher in NGs + GL group than other groups. Down-regulation of Bcl-2 (6.6 folds) was higher in NGs + GL group compared to NGs (-GL) (1.94 fold) and mixed micelles (1.19 fold) groups. Higher Bax up-regulation in NGs + GL compared to other groups supports the Bcl-2 down regulation. Mitochondrial membrane polarisation (ΔΨ_m) was higher in NGs + GL group (2.46 fold) compared to NGs (-GL) (1.91 fold) and mixed micelles (1.26 fold) groups. The cellular FUCO uptake illustrated a positive correlation between its level (pmol/10⁶ cells) in NGs + GL (758.3) and enhanced caspase-3 activity (25.8 folds). This could be the reason for an increased apoptotic activity in NGs + GL group than other groups. Results demonstrate that delivery of FUCO in NGs + GL carrier aids cellular uptake and chemotherapeutic potential of FUCO. Results further demonstrate, for the first time, higher anti-cancer activity of FUCO loaded in NGs + GL and the effect was through ROS generation via a caspase dependent mechanism in Caco-2 cells.

Astaxanthin from shrimp efficiently modulates oxidative stress and allied cell death progression in MCF-7 cells treated synergistically with β-carotene and lutein from greens

This study investigated the synergistic efficacy of keto-carotenoid astaxanthin (AST, from shrimp) plus hydrocarbon (β-carotene, BC) and hydroxyl (lutein, L) carotenoids (from greens) on molecular events in MCF-7 cells. MCF-7 cells were treated with either of carotenoid (20 μM, AST or BC or L) separately or the mixture of them (an equimolar concentration of carotenoids mixture, CM) or saponified carotenoid extract from shrimp (SSCE) for 48 h and analyzed cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis. The IC₅₀ and combination-index values of AST co-treatment with a lower concentration of BC and L (5 μM) exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress as compared with individual carotenoids or SSCE. Further, higher cellular uptake/accumulation of AST along with BC and L found to synergistically induce apoptosis through modulation of cyclin D1, p53, Bax and Bcl-2 expressions by arresting cell cycle at G0/G1 phase. Further, CM or SSCE treatments are unlikely to affect proliferation of normal breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A). The results of selective killing of MCF-7 cells demonstrated a greater insight on the synergistic effect of shrimp AST plus BC and L. It is concluded that consumption of shrimp along with green leafy vegetables helps in combating cancer chemoprevention.

Lactucaxanthin - a potential anti-diabetic carotenoid from lettuce (Lactuca sativa) inhibits α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity in vitro and in diabetic rats

Intestinal and pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors offer an approach to lower the levels of post-prandial hyperglycemia through the control of dietary starch breakdown in digestion. This study hypothesized that lactucaxanthin (Lxn) in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) inhibits the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. In this study, the interaction of Lxn with α-amylase and α-glucosidase in silico and its inhibitory effect on these enzymes were studied using in vitro and STZ-induced diabetic rat models. Lxn was isolated from lettuce with 96% purity confirmed by HPLC and LCMS. The in silico analysis showed that Lxn has a lower binding energy (-6.05 and -6.34 kcal mol-1) with α-amylase and α-glucosidase compared to their synthetic inhibitors, acarbose (-0.21 kcal mol-1) and miglitol (-2.78 kcal mol-1), respectively. In vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays revealed that Lxn had IC50 values of 435.5 μg mL-1 and 1.84 mg mL-1, but acarbose has values of 2.5 and 16.19 μg mL-1. The in vivo results showed an increased activity for α-amylase and α-glucosidase in the intestine (4.7 and 1.30 fold, p < 0.05) and pancreas (1.3 and 1.48 fold, p < 0.05) of STZ induced diabetic rats compared to normal rats. Whereas the activity decreased (p < 0.05) in the Lxn fed diabetic rats, except for the intestinal α-glucosidase activity (1.69 ± 0.12 PNP per min per mg protein). This was confirmed by the low blood glucose level (239.4 ± 18.2 mg dL-1) in diabetic rats fed Lxn compared to the diabetic group (572.2 ± 30.5 mg dL-1, p < 0.05). Lxn significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase and could be of medical and nutritional relevance in the treatment of diabetes.

Lutein attenuates oxidative stress markers and ameliorates glucose homeostasis through polyol pathway in heart and kidney of STZ-induced hyperglycemic rat model

PURPOSE

Lutein's role on chronic hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and associated glucose homeostasis in heart and kidney is limited. Purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of lutein on cardiac and renal polyol pathway enzymes and oxidative stress markers under hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress condition using streptozotocin (STZ)-injected rat model.

METHODS

STZ-induced hyperglycemic (fasting blood glucose ≥11 mM) male Wistar rats were divided into two groups (n = 11/group). Group 1 received micellar lutein (39 nmol/day/rat) and group 2 (negative control) received micelle without lutein for 8 weeks. A separate group (no STZ injected) served as a positive control (n = 11/group). Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), biweekly urine glucose and activities of aldose reductase (AR) and sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) enzymes were assessed. Activities of antioxidant enzymes and antioxidant level were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Lutein-administered hyperglycemic rats showed better glucose tolerance as evidenced with OGTT and biweekly urine glucose when compared to negative control. Activities of AR and SDH were decreased in heart and kidney of lutein-fed hyperglycemic rats. Also, they had significantly (p < 0.05) decreased malondialdehyde levels (66, 34, and 33 %) and increased reduced glutathione level (81, 18 and 92 %) in serum, heart and kidney, respectively. Altered antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione transferase were also affected in serum, heart and kidney of lutein-fed diabetic group.

CONCLUSION

Lutein prevented cardiac and renal injury in STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats due to potential amelioration of altered activities in polyol pathway and oxidative stress markers.

Chitosan-glycolipid nanogels loaded with anti-obese marine carotenoid fucoxanthin: Acute and sub-acute toxicity evaluation in rodent model

Fucoxanthin (FUCO) is a light- and heat-sensitive marine xanthophyll carotenoid, present in brown algae that render physiological properties as anti-oxidants. In this study, nanoencapsulation is an approach adopted to improve bioavailability of FUCO by using ionic-gelation method with polymeric chitosan (CS) dispersed in glycolipid (GL), as a carrier. Further, the aim was to investigate adverse effect of acute and sub-acute toxicity of chitosan nanogels (CS-NGs) loaded with FUCO+GL in rats. In the acute toxicity study, FUCO was fed to rats at doses of 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 mg/kg body weight (BW). In the sub-acute toxicity study, FUCO was fed at doses of 1 and 10 mg/kg BW for 28 days. In both the studies, no mortality and abnormalities in gross morphology were observed. Acute toxicity study revealed that the LD50 of FUCO in CS-NGs is higher than 100 mg/kg BW. No postprandial plasma levels of FUCO were detected. However, fucoxanthinol (FUOH), a hydrolytic metabolite of FUCO was detected in a dose dependent manner ( P < 0.01). Compared to the control group(s), no dose-related toxic effects of CS-NGs with FUCO + GL were found in haematological, histopathological, plasma biochemical indices, etc. The no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for CS-NGs with FUCO + GL in rats was 10 mg/kg/day. To conclude, no apparent adverse effect of CS-NGs with FUCO + GL demonstrating CS could be a promising polymer matrix for safe delivery of FUCO. This is the first study to demonstrate the safety assessment of CS-NGs with FUCO + GL.

Effect of feeding lipids recovered from fish processing waste by lactic acid fermentation and enzymatic hydrolysis on antioxidant and membrane bound enzymes in rats

Fish oil recovered from fresh water fish visceral waste (FVW-FO) through lactic acid fermentation (FO-LAF) and enzymatic hydrolysis (FO-EH) were fed to rats to study their influence on lipid peroxidation and activities of antioxidant and membrane bound enzyme in liver, heart and brain. Feeding of FO-LAF and FO-EH resulted in increase (P < 0.05) in lipid peroxides level in serum, liver, brain and heart tissues compared to ground nut oil (control). Activity of catalase (40-235 %) and superoxide dismutase (17-143 %) also increased (P < 0.05) with incremental level of EPA + DHA in diet. The increase was similar to cod liver oil fed rats at same concentration of EPA + DHA. FO-LAF and FO-EH increased (P < 0.05) the Na(+)K(+) ATPase activity in liver and brain microsomes, Ca(+)Mg(+) ATPase in heart microsome and acetylcholine esterase in brain microsomes when fed with 5 % EPA + DHA. There was also significant change in fatty acid composition and cholesterol/phospholipid ratio in microsomes of rat fed with FVW-FO. Feeding FVW-FO recovered by biotechnological approaches enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes in tissues, modulates the activities of membrane bound enzymes and improved the fatty acid composition in microsomes of tissues similar to CLO. Utilization of these processing wastes for the production of valuable biofunctional products can reduce the mounting economic values of fish oil and minimize the environmental pollution problems.

Role of different vehicles in carotenoids delivery and their influence on cell viability, cell cycle progression, and induction of apoptosis in HeLa cells

The objective of the present study was to determine the role of different vehicles in carotenoids delivery and their influence on cell viability, cell cycle progression and induction of apoptosis in HeLa cells. Cells (5 × 10(3)) were treated with different concentrations (25-100 µM) of β-carotene (BC) or lutein (L) or astaxanthin (AST) dissolved in 0.5% of tetrahydrofuran (THF), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), and fetal bovine serum (FBS), respectively. The effect of delivery vehicle on carotenoids uptake, cytotoxicity, oxidative status, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis was examined after 48 h of incubation. The results shown that, cell viability reduced significantly in a dose- and time-dependent manner irrespective of carotenoid delivered in vehicles. Cellular uptake of BC delivered in THF was higher by 49.1, 29.7% and L delivered through THF was higher by 41.7 and 37.5% than DMSO and FBS, respectively. While, AST delivered through DMSO was higher by 36.1 and 43.7% than the THF and FBS, respectively. In case of cells treated either with BC or L delivered through THF and AST in DMSO decreased the glutathione and increased the malondialdehyde levels. The net increase in the G 2/M phase percentage of cell cycle progression was observed in carotenoid-treated cells. The % induction of apoptosis by BC or L delivered with THF and AST in DMSO was higher than other treated groups. In conclusion, choice of suitable vehicle for specific carotenoids delivery is essential that in turn may influence on cell proliferation and cell-based assays.

Would a Massive Intra-abdominal Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor with Growth into the Inguinal Canal and Scrotum Preclude Surgical Option? A Case Report and Review of Literature

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are rare spindle-cell sarcomas derived from Schwann cells or pluripotent cells of the neural crest accounting for less than 10 % of all soft tissue sarcomas. They arise from major or minor peripheral nerve fibers or their sheaths. The World Health Organization coined the term MPNST for tumors of neurogenic origin with similar biological behavior replacing all the previous heterogeneous and, often, confusing nomenclature including malignant schwannoma, malignant neurilemmoma, and neurofibrosarcoma. The retroperitoneum and the lower extremities are the most common sites, but MPNST may arise anywhere in the body. Its location in the retroperitoneum in a patient without neurofibromatosis is an exceedingly rare occurrence. Imaging is routinely performed to assess the extent of the disease and to plan surgical resection. Surgical resection is the first line of therapy, ideally with total removal of the tumor. Owing to a high risk of recurrence with incomplete resection, postoperative irradiation and chemotherapy are necessary; however, they are often used as adjuvant therapy even if the tumor is completely resected.

Acute and subacute toxicity assessment of lutein in lutein-deficient mice

Dietary lutein consumption is lower than the actual recommended allowances to prevent macular degeneration; thus dietary lutein supplements have been recommended. This study aimed to investigate potential adverse effect of lutein from Tagetes erecta in lutein-deficient (LD) male mice. Preliminary acute toxicity study revealed that the LD50 exceeded the highest dose of 10000 mg/kg BW. In a subacute study, male mice were gavaged with 0, 100, 1000 mg/kg BW/day for a period of 4 wk. Plasma lutein levels increased dose dependently (P < 0.01) after acute and subacute feeding of lutein in LD mice. Compared to the control (peanut oil without lutein) group, no treatment-related toxicologically significant effects of lutein were prominent in clinical observation, ophthalmic examinations, body, and organ weights. Further, no toxicologically significant findings were eminent in hematological, histopathological, and other clinical chemistry parameters. In the oral subacute toxicity study, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for lutein in LD mice was determined as 1000 mg/kg/day, the highest dose tested.

Promising interaction between nanoencapsulated lutein with low molecular weight chitosan: characterization and bioavailability of lutein in vitro and in vivo

This study aims to develop water-soluble low molecular weight chitosan (LMWC) nanoencapsules with lutein to improve its bioavailability. Lutein-LMWC nanoencapsules were prepared, characterized and bioavailability was studied in vitro and in vivo with lutein in mixed micelles (control). The particle size ranged between 80-600 nm, which was confirmed by Atomic Force Microscope. The interaction between LMWC and lutein in nanocencapsules by (1)H and (13)C NMR showed the essentiality of water molecules to hold the lutein between LMWC chains of nanoparticle with a reversible weak bond. Bioavailability of lutein (200 μM) in vitro showed that lutein-LMWC nanoencapsules was significantly higher (27.7%) than control. Postprandial lutein level in the plasma (54.5%), liver (53.9%) and eyes (62.8%) of mice fed on nanoencapsulated lutein were higher than the control. LMWC may serve as novel carrier for enhancing the lutein bioavailability and can be suggested as the better dietary compound in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Retinol-deficient rats can convert a pharmacological dose of astaxanthin to retinol: antioxidant potential of astaxanthin, lutein, and β-carotene

Retinol (ROH) and provitamin-A carotenoids are recommended to treat ROH deficiency. Xanthophyll carotenoids, being potent antioxidants, can modulate health disorders. We hypothesize that nonprovitamin-A carotenoids may yield ROH and suppress lipid peroxidation under ROH deficiency. This study aimed to (i) study the possible bioconversion of astaxanthin and lutein to ROH similar to β-carotene and (ii) determine the antioxidant potential of these carotenoids with reference to Na+/K+-ATPase, antioxidant molecules, and lipid peroxidation (Lpx) induced by ROH deficiency in rats. ROH deficiency was induced in rats (n = 5 per group) by feeding a diet devoid of ROH. Retinol-deficient (RD) rats were gavaged with astaxanthin, lutein, β-carotene, or peanut oil alone (RD group) for 7 days. Results show that the RD group had lowered plasma ROH levels (0.3 µmol/L), whereas ROH rose in astaxanthin and β-carotene groups (4.9 and 5.7 µmol/L, respectively), which was supported by enhanced (69% and 70%) intestinal β-carotene 15,15′-monooxygenase activity. Astaxanthin, lutein, and β-carotene lowered Lpx by 45%, 41%, and 40% (plasma), respectively, and 59%, 64%, and 60% (liver), respectively, compared with the RD group. Lowered Na+/K+-ATPase and enhanced superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase activities support the lowered Lpx. To conclude, this report confirms that astaxanthin is converted into β-carotene and ROH in ROH-deficient rats, and the antioxidant potential of carotenoids was in the order astaxanthin > lutein > β-carotene.

Characterization of microalgal carotenoids by mass spectrometry and their bioavailability and antioxidant properties elucidated in rat model

Of the total carotenoids in respective algal samples, beta-carotene in Spirulina platensis was 69.5%, astaxanthin and its esters in Haematococcus pluvialis was 81.38%, and lutein in Botryococcus braunii was 74.6%. The carotenoids were characterized by mass spectrometry. A time-course study of carotenoids in rats after administration of microalgal biomass showed peak levels in plasma, liver, and eyes at 2, 4, and 6 h, respectively. Beta-carotene accumulation in Spirulina-fed rats was maximum in eye tissues at 6 h. Similarly, levels of astaxanthin and lutein in Haematococcus- and Botryococcus-fed rats were also maximal in eye tissues. Astaxanthin from H. pluvialis showed better bioavailability than beta-carotene and lutein. The antioxidant enzymes, catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and TBARS were significantly high in plasma at 2 h and in liver at 4 h, evidently offering protection from free radicals. This study implies that microalgae can be a good source of carotenoids of high bioavailability and nutraceutical value.

Antioxidant and cytotoxic effect of oxidized lutein in human cervical carcinoma cells (HeLa)

This study investigated the antioxidant and cytotoxic effect of oxidized lutein using human cervical carcinoma cell lines (HeLa). Liposome contained phosphatidylcholine (20 micromol) in Tris-HCl buffer and lutein (200 micromol) was exposed to sunlight for 100 min. Photo-oxidized lutein products were characterized by LC-MS (APCI(+)) and studied for their antioxidant property and apoptosis in terms of cell viability, glutathione and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Photo-oxidized lutein fragmented ions were identified as 523 (M+ + H+-3CH3), 476 (M+ + H+-6CH3), 551 (M+ + H+-H2O) and its isomers as 13-Z lutein, 13'-Z lutein, 13-Z zeaxanthin, all-E zeaxanthin, 9-Z lutein, 9'-Z lutein. Free radical scavenging activity of oxidized lutein was higher by 45.9% (IC(50), 3.71 microg) than lutein (IC(50), 5.28 microg). Oxidized lutein lowered the lipid peroxidation by 20.7% than lutein. The viability of HeLa cells, glutathione and MDA levels were decreased by 64%, 40% and 18% than lutein. To conclude, oxidized lutein may be highly reactive, since oxidation results in radical ions, which can combine with similar reactive oxidative species that could lead to higher antioxidant effect. This may be true in this study that antioxidant property of oxidized lutein was higher than lutein that correlates with free radical scavenging activity and cytotoxic effects on HeLa cells.