Bioavailability and molecular activities of anthocyanins as modulators of endothelial function

Juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) improves time-to-exhaustion cycling performance and increased reduced glutathione: a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover, and triple-blind study

To examine the effects of 7-days juçara powder (JP) intake on oxidative stress biomarkers and endurance and sprint cycling performances. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover, and triple-blind study, 20 male trained cyclists were assigned to intake 10 g of JP (240 mg anthocyanins) or placebo (PLA) for 7 days and performed a cycling time-to-exhaustion (TTE). A 5 s cycling sprint was performed before and after the cycling TTE. Blood oxidative stress biomarkers and lactate concentration where evaluated 1 h before (T-1), immediately after (T0), and 1 h after (T1) the cycling TTE. The mean duration time for the cycling TTE was 8.4 ± 6.0% (63 ± 17 s) longer in the JP condition (JP: 751 ± 283 s) compared to PLA (688 ± 266 s) (P < 0.019). Two-way repeated measures Analysis of variance showed an increase in the JP condition for reduced glutathione (GSH) (P = 0.049) at T0 (P = 0.039) and T1 (P = 0.029) compared to PLA with a moderate effect size at T0 (d = 0.61) and T1 (d = 0.57). Blood lactate levels increased over time in both conditions (P ≤ 0.001). No differences were observed for the post-TTE sprint fatigue index, total phenols, protein carbonyls, and glutathione peroxidase activity. Seven-day intake of JP improved cycling endurance performance and increased GSH levels but had no effect on lactate and cycling sprint-induced fatigue.

Critical review on anthocyanins in blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) and their function

Blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) is an emerging commercial fruit in the world, has been known for its multiple anthocyanins in the berries, cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) is a major anthocyanin in berries and it makes up 76-92% of the total anthocyanins content, with high antioxidant capacity, and widely used in food products. In this review, recent studies related to anthocyanins in blue honeysuckle were sorted out, including the current status of research on anthocyanins in blue honeysuckle berries, especially C3G, qualitative and quantitative analysis of anthocyanins in berries, extraction and purification methods of anthocyanins from blue honeysuckle, in addition, biological effects of blue honeysuckle, and recommended utilization. Blue honeysuckle contains polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, minerals, and multiple bioactive compounds, it has been extensively reported to have significant antioxidant, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, and anti-diabetic functions, and has been used in a variety of food products as raw materials.

Regulation of mitotic clonal expansion and thermogenic pathway are involved in the antiadipogenic effects of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside

Introduction: Obesity is a metabolic disease with an increase both in cell size (hypertrophy) and in cell number (hyperplasia) following differentiation of new adipocytes. Adipogenesis is a well-orchestrated program in which mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) occurs in the early step followed by the late terminal differentiation one. Methods: Aim of the study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), an anthocyanin present in many fruits and vegetables, in the early or late phase of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes differentiation. Results: C3G exposure in the early phase of adipogenesis process induced a more marked reduction of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-β (C/EBPβ), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-ɣ) and fatty acid synthase (Fasn) expression than late phase exposure and these effects were associated to a reduced MCE with cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase via p21 expression. Furthermore, C3G exposure during the early phase activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway better than in the late phase promoting the enhancement of beige-like adipocytes. In fact, C3G induced thermogenic biomarkers uncoupling protein-1 (Ucp1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1 alpha (Pgc1) and these effects were more evident during early phase exposure. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that C3G reduces the terminal adipogenic process affecting the early phase of differentiation and inducing a thermogenic program.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside protects intestinal epithelial cells from palmitate-induced lipotoxicity

CONTEXT

Increased free fatty acids (FFAs) levels, typical in obesity condition, can contribute to systemic lipotoxicity and inflammation adversely influencing Inflammatory Bowel Disease development and progression. Anthocyanins possess health promoting properties mainly associated to the induction of Nrf2-regulated cytoprotective proteins.

OBJECTIVE

Using a novel experimental model, we evaluated the in vitro intracellular mechanisms involved in FFAs modulation of intestinal epithelial lipotoxicity and the protective effects of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) in Caco-2 cells.

RESULTS

Caco-2 exposed to palmitic acid (PA) in the serosal (basolateral) side showed a combined state of epithelial inflammation, inducing NF-κB pathway and downstream cytokines, that was reverted by C3G apical pre-treatment. In addition, PA altered intracellular redox status and induced reactive oxygen species that were reduced by C3G via the redox-sensitive Nrf2 signalling.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Results suggest that anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins, mediated by Nrf2, could represent an interesting tool for intestinal inflammatory disorders.

Concerted phenotypic flexibility of avian erythrocyte size and number in response to dietary anthocyanin supplementation

BACKGROUND

Endurance flight impose substantial oxidative costs on the avian oxygen delivery system. In particular, the accumulation of irreversible damage in red blood cells can reduce the capacity of blood to transport oxygen and limit aerobic performance. Many songbirds consume large amounts of anthocyanin-rich fruit, which is hypothesized to reduce oxidative costs, enhance post-flight regeneration, and enable greater aerobic capacity. While their antioxidant benefits appear most straightforward, the effects of anthocyanins on blood composition remain so far unknown. We fed thirty hand-raised European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) two semisynthetic diets (with or without anthocyanin supplement) and manipulated the extent of flight activity in a wind tunnel (daily flying or non-flying for over two weeks) to test for their interactive effects on functionally important haematological variables.

RESULTS

Supplemented birds had on average 15% more and 4% smaller red blood cells compared to non-supplemented individuals and these diet effects were independent of flight manipulation. Haemoglobin content was 7% higher in non-supplemented flying birds compared to non-flying birds, while similar haemoglobin content was observed among supplemented birds that were flown or not. Neither diet nor flight activity influenced haematocrit.

CONCLUSION

The concerted adjustments suggest that supplementation generally improved antioxidant protection in blood, which could prevent the excess removal of cells from the bloodstream and may have several implications on the oxygen delivery system, including improved gas exchange and blood flow. The flexible haematological response to dietary anthocyanins may also suggest that free-ranging species preferentially consume anthocyanin-rich fruits for their natural blood doping, oxygen delivery-enhancement effects.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of an In Vitro Digested Anthocyanin-Rich Extract on Intestinal Epithelial Cells Exposed to TNF-α

Background: The consumption of foods rich in anthocyanins (ACN) have been associated with beneficial properties in chronic inflammatory disorders such as intestinal bowel diseases (IBD). These effects were attributed not only to a direct antioxidant mechanism but also to the modulation of cell redox-dependent signaling. However, ACN bioavailability is low for their poor stability in the digestive tract, so ACN gastrointestinal digestion should be considered. Methods: To have a more realistic knowledge of the effects of ACN, we performed an in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion of an ACN-rich purified and standardized bilberry and blackcurrant extract (BBE), followed by an evaluation of ACN composition modification (HPLC-DAD and pH differential method) and antioxidant activity (FRAP assay). Then, we studied the effects of BBE gastrointestinal extract on Caco-2 exposed to TNF-α. Results: The results confirmed the high instability of ACN in the mild alkaline environment of the small intestine (17% recovery index). However, the digested BBE maintained part of its bioactivity. Additionally, BBE gastrointestinal extract inhibited the TNF-α-induced NF-κB pathway in Caco-2 and activated the Nrf2 pathway. Conclusions: Although ACN stability is affected by gastrointestinal digestion, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of digested extracts were confirmed; thus, the loss of ACN can probably be counterweighed by their metabolites. Then, ACN introduced by diet or food supplements could represent an approach for IBD prevention.

Dietary polyglycosylated anthocyanins, the smart option? A comprehensive review on their health benefits and technological applications

Over the years, anthocyanins have emerged as one of the most enthralling groups of natural phenolic compounds and more than 700 distinct structures have already been identified, illustrating the exceptional variety spread in nature. The interest raised around anthocyanins goes way beyond their visually appealing colors and their acknowledged structural and biological properties have fueled intensive research toward their application in different contexts. However, the high susceptibility of monoglycosylated anthocyanins to degradation under certain external conditions might compromise their application. In that regard, polyglycosylated anthocyanins (PGA) might offer an alternative to overcome this issue, owing to their peculiar structure and consequent less predisposition to degradation. The most recent scientific and technological findings concerning PGA and their food sources are thoroughly described and discussed in this comprehensive review. Different issues, including their physical-chemical characteristics, consumption, bioavailability, and biological relevance in the context of different pathologies, are covered in detail, along with the most relevant prospective technological applications. Due to their complex structure and acyl groups, most of the PGA exhibit an overall higher stability than the monoglycosylated ones. Their versatility allows them to act in a wide range of pathologies, either by acting directly in molecular pathways or by modulating the disease environment attributing an added value to their food sources. Their recent usage for technological applications has also been particularly successful in different industry fields including food and smart packaging or in solar energy production systems. Altogether, this review aims to put into perspective the current state and future research on PGA and their food sources.

Anthocyanins Found in Pinot Noir Waste Induce Target Genes Related to the Nrf2 Signalling in Endothelial Cells

Grape pomace is a source of anthocyanins, which can prevent cardiovascular diseases due to their antioxidant properties. Anthocyanin activity is associated with the ability to regulate oxidative stress through the transcription factor Nrf2. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate if the anthocyanins found in Pinot noir pomace extract can affect the target genes related to the Nrf2 signalling pathway in endothelial cells. Our results highlight that the predominant anthocyanin in the Pinot noir pomace extract was malvidin-3-glucoside (3.7 ± 2.7 Eq. Malv-3-glu/kg). Molecular docking indicated that cyanidin-3-glucoside (-6.9 kcal/mol), malvidin-3-glucoside (-6.6 kcal/mol) and peonidin-3-glucoside (-6.6 kcal/mol) showed the highest affinities for the binding sites of the BTB domains in Keap1, suggesting that these components may modify the interaction of this protein with Nrf2. In addition, when HUVEC cells were exposed to different concentrations of Pinot noir pomace extract (100 µg/mL, 200 µg/mL, and 400 µg/mL), no changes in Nrf2 gene expression were observed. However, the gene expression of HO-1 and NQO1, which are in the signalling pathway of this transcription factor, increased according the concentrations of the extract (p = 0.0004 and p = 0.0084, respectively). In summary, our results show that anthocyanins play a very important role in Nrf2 activation and release, while at the same time not promoting its transcription. These preliminary results strongly suggest that the Pinot noir pomace extract can serve as a potent bioactive component source that protects cells against oxidative stress.

Effect of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Force Steadiness of the Quadriceps Femoris Muscle during Sustained Submaximal Isometric Contraction

Intake of anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) can alter physiological responses that enhance exercise performance. In two studies, we examined the effects of NZBC extract on force steadiness during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle. With repeated measures designs, male participants in study one (n = 13) and study two (n = 19) performed a 120 s submaximal (30%) isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle following a 7-day intake of NZBC extract and placebo (study one) and following 0 (control), 1-, 4- and 7-day intake of NZBC extract (study two). Participants for both studies were different. In study one, NZBC extract enhanced isometric force steadiness during the 120 s contraction (placebo: 6.58 ± 2.24%, NZBC extract: 6.05 ± 2.24%, p = 0.003), with differences in the third (60-89 s) and fourth quartile (90-120 s) of the contraction. In study two, isometric force steadiness was not changed following 1 and 4 days but was enhanced following 7-day intake of NZBC extract in comparison to control. In study two, the enhanced isometric force steadiness following 7-day intake did occur in the second (30-59 s), third (60-89 s) and fourth (90-120 s) quartiles. Daily supplementation of anthocyanin-rich NZBC extract can enhance force steadiness of the quadriceps femoris muscle during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction. Our observations may have implications for human tasks that require postural stability.

The health benefits of anthocyanins: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies and controlled clinical trials

Anthocyanins (ACNs) are phenolic compounds present in foods and have undefined health benefits. The present umbrella review aimed to analyze the effects of ACNs on multiple aspects of human health (from systematic reviews and meta-analyses [SRMs] of randomized controlled trials [RCTs]), and the associations of ACNs with the risk of various diseases (from SRMs of observational studies [OSs]). Following the PRISMA methodology, the PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases were searched up to November 1, 2020 for OS-SRMs and RCT-SRMs that examined the effects of ACNs on health. The risk of bias of RCT-SRMs was assessed using the AMSTAR 2, and that of OS-SRMs was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Based on 5 OS-SRMs (57 studies and 2 134 336 participants), ACNs of various sources were significantly associated with a reduction in the risks of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. According to 8 RCT-SRMs (139 interventions and >4984 participants), ACNs improved plasmatic lipids, glucose metabolism, and endothelial function, without affecting blood pressure. No associations between ACNs and breast or gastric cancer risks were found. ACN intake opens new pathways for the management of glucose metabolism, the plasmatic lipid profile, and the improvement of endothelial function in humans.

In Vitro Effects of Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside on Inflammatory and Insulin-Sensitizing Genes in Human Adipocytes Exposed to Palmitic Acid

In this article, we investigated the in vitro potential beneficial effects of the anthocyanin cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) on inflammation and insulin resistance markers induced by palmitic acid (PA) in human SGBS adipocytes. Results demonstrated that PA reduced insulin sensitivity in SGBS cells with a significant inhibition of Akt phosphorylation, with a higher sensitivity to PA than murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes, GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 glucose transporters and the enzyme hexokinase-II. C3G pretreatment (1-20 μM) reverted these effects. Moreover, we demonstrated, for the first time in human adipocytes, that cells exposure to PA induced gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1. Cells pretreatment with C3G resulted in a reduction in mRNA levels starting at very low concentrations (1 μM). In conclusion, this study highlights the effects of PA on inflammation and insulin resistance markers in human adipocytes, and confirm the role of C3G in the prevention of lipotoxicity in dysfunctional adipocytes.

Antioxidant Effect of Lonicera caerulea L. in the Cardiovascular System of Obese Zucker Rats

Lonicera caerulea L. (Loni) represents a promising source of beneficial polyphenols with therapeutical potential in cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to study the effects of Loni and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on selected cardiometabolic parameters and NO/ROS balance in obese Zucker rats. Male Zucker rats were divided into the control group and groups treated with CoQ10 (30 mg/kg/day) or Loni (5 g/kg/day) for 6 weeks. Blood pressure, body weight, heart weight, and plasma lipid profile were determined. NOS activity and protein expressions of eNOS, SOD, NADPH oxidase, and NF-kappa B were measured in the heart and aorta. Neither body weight nor blood pressure were significantly changed after six weeks of Loni or CoQ10 treatment. Both Loni and CoQ10 decreased the plasma LDL level. Moreover, Loni decreased the total cholesterol level. The total NOS activity did not change in the heart after the treatments. However, in the aorta, Loni treatment increased NOS activity and protein expression of SOD and decreased expressions of NADPH oxidase and NF-kappa B compared to both the control and CoQ10 groups. There were no changes in the eNOS protein expression within the groups. In conclusion, it seems that the antioxidant effect of Loni was responsible for both the decrease of plasma LDL and the total cholesterol levels and the increase of vascular NOS activity.

Effect of Intake Duration of Anthocyanin-Rich New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Cardiovascular Responses and Femoral Artery Diameter during Sustained Submaximal Isometric Contraction

Seven-day intake of anthocyanins from New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract increased cardiac output and femoral artery diameter during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction. It is not known if there are intake duration effects by NZBC extract on the isometric contraction-induced cardiovascular responses. In a repeated measures design, male participants (n = 19, age: 26 ± 4 years) performed a 120-second submaximal (30%) isometric contraction of the knee extensors at baseline and following 1, 4 and 7-days intake of 600 mg·day^-1 NZBC extract. During the 120-second submaximal isometric contraction, femoral artery diameter and cardiovascular responses were measured with ultrasound and beat-to-beat hemodynamic monitoring. Femoral artery was larger following 4-days (mean difference = 0.046 cm, 95% CI [0.012, 0.080], p = 0.005) and 7-days (mean difference = 0.078 cm, 95% CI [0.034, 0.123], p < 0.001) in comparison to baseline with no increase with 1-day intake. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and total peripheral resistance were not changed by NZBC extract at 1, 4 and 7-days intake. However, mean arterial pressure, stroke volume, cardiac output and total peripheral resistance were changed at time points during the isometric contraction following 7-days intake in comparison to 1-day intake of NZBC extract (p < 0.05). Alterations in femoral artery diameter and some cardiovascular responses during a submaximal sustained isometric contraction of the knee extensors are affected by the intake duration of New Zealand blackcurrant extract, with no effects by 1-day intake. Our observations suggest that the bioavailability of blackcurrant anthocyanins and anthocyanin-derived metabolites is required for days to alter the mechanisms for isometric-contraction induced cardiovascular responses.

Dried mulberry fruit ameliorates cardiovascular and liver histopathological changes in high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic mice

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Metabolic disease encompasses most contemporary non-communicable diseases, especially cardiovascular and fatty liver disease. Mulberry fruits of Morus alba L. are a favoured food and a traditional medicine. While they are anti-atherosclerotic and reduce hyperlipidemic risk factors, studies need wider scope that include ameliorating cardiovascular and liver pathologies if they are to become clinically effective treatments. Therefore, the present study sought to show that freshly dried mulberry fruits (dMF) might counteract the metabolic/cardiovascular pathologies in mice made hyperlipidemic by high-fat diet (HF).

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

C57BL/6J mice were fed for 3 months with either: i) control diet, ii) HF, iii) HF+100 mg/kg dMF, or iv) HF+300 mg/kg dMF. Body weight gain, food intake, visceral fat accumulation, fasting blood glucose, plasma lipids, and aortic, heart, and liver histopathologies were evaluated. Adipocyte lipid accumulation, autophagy, and bile acid binding were also investigated.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

HF increased food intake, body weight, visceral fat, plasma total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), TC/HDL ratio, blood glucose, aortic collagen, arterial and cardiac wall thickness, and liver lipid. Both dMF doses prevented hyperphagia, body weight gain, and visceral fat accumulation, lowered blood glucose, plasma TG and unfavourable TC/HDL and elevated plasma HDL beyond baseline. Arterial and cardiac wall hypertrophy, aortic collagen fibre accumulation and liver lipid deposition ameliorated in dMF-fed mice. Clinical trials on dMF are worthwhile but outcomes should be holistic commensurate with the constellation of disease risks. Here, dMF should supplement the switch to nutrient-rich from current energy-dense diets that are progressively crippling national health systems.

The Pro-Oxidant Activity of Red Wine Polyphenols Induces an Adaptive Antioxidant Response in Human Erythrocytes

The protective effect of dealcoholized red wine on human health has been partially associated with its polyphenolic components, suggesting that the pool of polyphenols, including flavonoids and anthocyanins, can be responsible for the functional effects of this beverage. We hypothesize a new role of red wine polyphenols (RWp) in modulating the antioxidant potential of erythrocytes, protecting them against oxidative stress. We previously demonstrated that RWp activated the Plasma Membrane Redox System (PMRS), which is involved in neutralizing plasma free radicals. Here, we investigated the underlying mechanism triggered by RWp in the activation of PMRS via the involvement of GSH. Hence, treatment of human erythrocytes with RWp (73 μg/mL Gallic Acid Equivalents) increased GSH intracellular concentration, which depends upon the activation of glutathione reductase (GR) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), whose enzymatic activities increase of about 30% and 47%, respectively. Changes in the GSH pathway induced by RWp were associated with a slight but significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS). We conclude that the pro-oxidant effect of RWp promoted an adaptive stress response in human erythrocytes, which enhances their antioxidant defense.

Effect of zirconia on improving NOx reduction efficiency of Nd2Zr2O7 nanostructure fabricated by a new, facile and green sonochemical approach

Here, we offer an easy and eco-friendly sonochemical pathway to fabricate Nd2Zr2O7 nanostructures and nanocomposites with the help of Morus nigra extract as a new kind of capping agent. For the first time, the performance of Nd2Zr2O7-based ceramic nanostructure materials has been compared upon NOx abatement. Diverse kinds of techniques have been employed to specify purity and check the attributes of the fabricated Nd2Zr2O7-based nanostructurs by Morus nigra extract. Outcomes revealed the successful fabrication of Nd2Zr2O7 nanostructures and nanocomposites applying Morus nigra extract through sonochemical pathway. All nanostructured samples have been fabricated through ultrasonic probe with power of 60 W (18 KHz). Further, the fabricated Nd2Zr2O7-based ceramic nanostructure materials can be applied as potential nanocatalysts with appropriate performance for propane-SCR-NOx, since the conversion of NOx to N2 for the best sample (Nd2Zr2O7-ZrO2 nanocomposite) was 70%. In addition, in case of Nd2Zr2O7-ZrO2 nanocomposite, the outlet quantity of CO as an unfavorable and unavoidable product was lower than the rest.

A computational study of the interactions between anthocyans and cyclodextrins

The interactions between six anthocyans (cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, malvidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside, malvidin-3-O-rutinoside) and cyclodextrins were investigated by means of computational techniques. Four different structures of the aforementioned anthocyans were considered, as a result of the dependence structure - pH value (flavylium cations in acidic medium, hemiketals in neutral solutions and two tautomeric quinones in alkaline environment). The results outlined that the anthocyanidin-3-O-rutinoside are favored for the obtaining of inclusion complexes with the cyclodextrins, mostly due to the larger number of OH groups involved in the formation of hydrogen bonds. For all the four types of structures, best results have been obtained for β- and γ-cyclodextrins.

New Zealand blackcurrant extract enhances muscle oxygenation during repeated intermittent forearm muscle contractions in advanced and elite rock climbers

Anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) may improve forearm muscle oxygenation and enhance performance in high-level rock climbers. As such, using a double-blind, randomised, cross-over design study, twelve participants performed an oxidative capacity assessment, and two successive exhaustive exercise trials (submaximal forearm muscle contractions at 60% of their maximal volitional contraction). Each visit was conducted following 7-days intake of 600 mg·day^-1 NZBC extract or placebo. Oxidative capacity was estimated by calculating the oxygen half time recovery using near infrared spectroscopy. Time to exhaustion (s), impulse (kg·s), and minimum tissue saturation index (min-TSI %) were assessed during both the exercise trials. Muscle oxidative capacity was greater with NZBC (mean difference [MD] = 5.3 s, 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] = 0.4-10.2 s; p = 0.036; Cohen's d = 0.94). During the exercise trials, there was an interaction for min-TSI % (time x condition, p = 0.046; ηp2= 0.372), which indicated a greater level of oxygen extraction during trial two with NZBC extract (MD = 9%, 95% CI = 2-15%) compared to the placebo (MD = 2%, 95% CI = 1-7%). There was a decrease in time to exhaustion (p <0.001, ηp2 = 0.693) and impulse (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.672) in exercise trial two, with no effect of NZBC extract. In high-level rock climbers 7-days NZBC extract improves forearm muscle oxygenation with no effect on isolated forearm muscle performance.

Anthocyanins attenuate vascular and inflammatory responses to a high fat high energy meal challenge in overweight older adults: A cross-over, randomized, double-blind clinical trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Postprandial metabolic imbalances are important indicators of later developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study investigated the effects of food anthocyanins on vascular and microvascular function, and CVD associated biomarkers following a high fat high energy (HFHE) meal challenge in overweight older adults.

METHODS

Sixteen subjects (13 female, 3 male, mean age 65.9 SD 6.0 and body mass index 30.6 kg/m² SD 3.9) participated in a crossover, randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial (registered under Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, identifier no. ACTRN12620000437965). Participants consumed a HFHE meal with a 250 mL dose of either intervention (anthocyanins-rich Queen Garnet Plum) or control (apricot) juice. Blood samples and blood pressure measures were collected at baseline, 2 h and 4 h following the HFHE meal. Vascular and microvascular function were evaluated at baseline and 2 h after the HFHE meal.

RESULTS

Participants had a higher 2 h postprandial flow-mediated dilatation (+1.14%) and a higher microvascular post-occlusive reactive hyperaemia (+0.10 perfusion units per mmHg) when allocated to the anthocyanin compared to the control arm (P = 0.019 and P = 0.049, respectively). C-reactive protein was lower 4 h postprandially in the anthocyanins (1.80 mg/L, IQR 0.90) vs control arm (2.30 mg/L, IQR 1.95) (P = 0.026), accompanied by a trend for lower concentrations of interleukin-6 (P = 0.075). No significant postprandial differences were observed between treatments for blood pressure, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, serum derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta, or maximum microvascular perfusion following iontophoresis of acetylcholine.

CONCLUSION

Fruit-based anthocyanins attenuated the potential postprandial detrimental effects of a HFHE challenge on parameters of vascular and microvascular function, and inflammatory biomarkers in overweight older adults. Anthocyanins may reduce cardiovascular risk associated with endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory responses to a typical high fat 'Western' meal. Further studies are required to better elucidate the clinical implications of postprandial biomarkers of CVD.

Bilberry Supplementation after Myocardial Infarction Decreases Microvesicles in Blood and Affects Endothelial Vesiculation

SCOPE

Diet rich in bilberries is considered cardioprotective, but the mechanisms of action are poorly understood. Cardiovascular disease is characterized by increased proatherogenic status and high levels of circulating microvesicles (MVs). In an open-label study patients with myocardial infarction receive an 8 week dietary supplementation with bilberry extract (BE). The effect of BE on patient MV levels and its influence on endothelial vesiculation in vitro is investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MVs are captured with acoustic trapping and platelet-derived MVs (PMVs), as well as endothelial-derived MVs (EMVs) are quantified with flow cytometry. The in vitro effect of BE on endothelial extracellular vesicle (EV) release is examined using endothelial cells and calcein staining. The mechanisms of BE influence on vesiculation pathways are studied by Western blot and qRT-PCR. Supplementation with BE decreased both PMVs and EMVs. Furthermore, BE reduced endothelial EV release, Akt phosphorylation, and vesiculation-related gene transcription. It also protects the cells from P2X7 -induced EV release and increase in vesiculation-related gene expression.

CONCLUSION

BE supplementation improves the MV profile in patient blood and reduces endothelial vesiculation through several molecular mechanisms related to the P2X7 receptor. The findings provide new insight into the cardioprotective effects of bilberries.

Role of berries in vascular function: a systematic review of human intervention studies

CONTEXT

Berries are a source of polyphenols with recognized health-promoting activities. Several studies suggest that consumption of berries may improve vascular function.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review is to provide evidence of short- and long-term benefits of berries on outcomes of vascular function.

DATA SOURCES

Human intervention studies were collected from PubMed and Scopus databases.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies were eligible if they investigated the effects of acute or chronic berry consumption on one or more markers of vascular function in humans and provided a characterization of the berry polyphenolic content. Only randomized controlled trials were included, and studies were excluded if berries were combined with other foods.

DATA EXTRACTION

After selection, 22 randomized controlled trials were included and analyzed, most of which were performed in healthy individuals or patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

RESULTS

The overall results seem to suggest a protective role of berries in vascular function, likely dependent on the time of exposure, the type and dose of berry, and the biomarkers analyzed. Flow-mediated dilation and reactive hyperemia index (markers of vascular reactivity) improved following short-term interventions, while pulse wave velocity and augmentation index (markers of arterial stiffness) improved only after medium- to long-term intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that berries, at physiological relevant doses, may have a role in the modulation of vascular function and stiffness. High-quality human intervention trials are encouraged in order to strengthen these findings and to better elucidate the mechanisms involved in such modulation.

Blood Orange Juice Consumption Increases Flow-Mediated Dilation in Adults with Overweight and Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological studies have indicated an inverse association between citrus fruit consumption and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. There is, however, a paucity of data concerning effects of blood orange juice (BOJ) intake on endothelial function and cardiovascular risk biomarkers.

OBJECTIVES

We examined short-term effects of BOJ on endothelial function, blood pressure, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers in healthy participants of European origin who were overweight or obese.

METHODS

In a randomized, controlled, single-blind, crossover trial, 15 men and women (age: 28.7 ± 6.5 y; BMI: 28.3 ± 3.1 kg/m2) consumed BOJ or a sugar-matched control drink (CD) (200 mL twice daily) for 2 wk with a washout period of 1 wk. Endothelial function, measured as flow-mediated dilation (FMD) (primary outcome), and the secondary outcomes blood pressure, anthropometric measures, lipid profile, inflammatory markers, markers of vasodilation and vasoconstriction, and urinary flavanone metabolites were evaluated prior to and at the end of each treatment period following an overnight fast. Changes between treatments over time were assessed using repeated-measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

The results demonstrate a significant increase in FMD following BOJ consumption (pre: 8.15% ± 2.92%; post: 10.2% ± 3.31%; P = 0.002) compared with CD (pre: 8.11% ± 2.52%; post: 7.77% ± 2.43%; time × treatment interaction: P = 0.001). Concurrent significant increases in urinary hesperetin-3'-glucuronide and hesperetin-7-glucuronide were observed following BOJ supplementation only (time × treatment interaction: P ≤ 0.01). Baseline blood pressure, lipid profile, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and endothelin-1 were generally within healthy ranges and unaffected by the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

A 2-wk consumption of BOJ exerted favorable effects on endothelial function in healthy women and men who were overweight or obese, which is likely mediated by the combined actions of anthocyanin and flavanone metabolites on mechanisms that contribute to enhancing NO bioavailability. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03611114.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside restores insulin signaling and reduces inflammation in hypertrophic adipocytes

Obesity is a metabolic disorder characterized by excess adipose tissue, macrophages infiltration, and inflammation which in turn lead to insulin-resistance. Epidemiological evidences reported that anthocyanins possess not only high antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities, but also improve metabolic complications associated with obesity. The aim of this work was to evaluate the in vitro beneficial effects of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) in counteracting inflammation and insulin-resistance in 3T3-L1 hypertrophic adipocytes exposed to palmitic acid (PA). In the present study murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes were pretreated with C3G for 24 h and then exposed to palmitic acid (PA) for 24 h. Real-time PCR, western blotting analysis and Oil Red O staining were applied for investigating the mechanism involved in adipocytes dysfunction. C3G pretreatment reduced lipid accumulation, PPARγ pathway and NF-κB pathway induced by PA in murine adipocytes. In addition, our data demonstrated that PA reduced insulin signaling via IRS-1 Ser³⁰⁷phosphorylation while C3G dose-dependently improved insulin sensitivity restoring IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, C3G improved adiponectin mRNA levels altered by PA in 3T3-L1 murine and SGBS human adipocytes. Herein reported data demonstrate that C3G ameliorated adipose tissue dysfunction, thus suggesting new potential roles for this compound of nutritional interest in the prevention of pathological conditions linked to obesity.

Anthocyanins As Modulators of Cell Redox-Dependent Pathways in Non-Communicable Diseases

Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), mostly represented by cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic pulmonary diseases, cancers, and several chronic pathologies, are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality, and are mainly related to the occurrence of metabolic risk factors. Anthocyanins (ACNs) possess a wide spectrum of biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective and chemopreventive properties, which are able to promote human health. Although ACNs present an apparent low bioavailability, their metabolites may play an important role in the in vivo protective effects observed. This article directly addresses the scientific evidences supporting that ACNs could be useful to protect human population against several NCDs not only acting as antioxidant but through their capability to modulate cell redox-dependent signaling. In particular, ACNs interact with the NF-κB and AP-1 signal transduction pathways, which respond to oxidative signals and mediate a proinflammatory effect, and the Nrf2/ARE pathway and its regulated cytoprotective proteins (GST, NQO, HO-1, etc.), involved in both cellular antioxidant defenses and elimination/inactivation of toxic compounds, so countering the alterations caused by conditions of chemical/oxidative stress. In addition, supposed crosstalks could contribute to explain the protective effects of ACNs in different pathological conditions characterized by an altered balance among these pathways. Thus, this review underlines the importance of specific nutritional molecules for human health and focuses on the molecular targets and the underlying mechanisms of ACNs against various diseases.

Blackcurrant extract does not affect the speed-duration relationship during high-intensity running

Anthocyanin-rich blackcurrant extract (BC) has been shown to ergogenically aid high-intensity exercise. Capacity for such exercise is evaluated by the hyperbolic speed-tolerable duration (S-D_tol) relationship. Therefore, in double-blinded and cross-over randomised controlled trials, 15 males underwent treadmill running incremental exercise testing and were assessed for S-D_tol, quantified by critical speed (CS) and D' (distance), and assessments of time to exhaustion performance to empirically test the limits of the S-D_tol relationship, after daily supplementation of 300 mg/d BC (105 mg/d anthocyanin) or placebo. Supplementation with BC did not change CS (placebo 12.1 ± 1.0 km/h vs BC 11.9 ± 1.0 km/h, p > .05) or D' (placebo 918.6 ± 223.2 m vs BC 965.2 ± 231.2 m, p > .05), although further analysis indicated D' increased in 60% of subject (p = .08), indicating a trend toward cohorts potentially benefiting from BC supplementation. BC supplementation did not change time to exhaustion at or above CS, maximal oxygen uptake (VO_2max), lactate threshold (LT), submaximal running economy (C_R), or substrate utilisation during exercise (all p > .05). In conclusion, we could not detect any beneficial effect of BC supplementation during high-intensity running exercise, including the determining factors S-D_tol relationship, VO_2max, LT or C_R. Hence, no ergogenic effect was observed.

Blueberry-Derived Exosome-Like Nanoparticles Counter the Response to TNF-α-Induced Change on Gene Expression in EA.hy926 Cells

Exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) are attracting interest as important vehicles of intercellular communication, both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Recently, dietary nanoparticles similar to mammalian exosomes have attracted attention for these features. In particular they appear to be relevant in the modulation of several cellular processes as well as candidate carriers of bioactive molecules (proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, including miRNAs) with therapeutic value. Herein, we investigated the cellular uptake of blueberry-derived ELNs (B-ELNs) by a human stabilized endothelial cell line (EA.hy926) and the ability of B-ELNs to modulate the expression of inflammatory genes as the response of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Our results indicate that 1) EA.hy926 cells internalize B-ELNs in a dose-dependent manner; 2) pretreatment with B-ELNs counters TNF-α-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and loss of cell viability and modulates the differential expression of 29 genes (fold change > 1.5) induced by TNF-α compared to control; 3) pathway analysis reveals their involvement in a total of 340 canonical pathways, 121 KEGG pathways, and 121 GO Biological processes; and 4) the intersection between differentially expressed (DE) genes and miRNAs contained in B-ELNs unveils a set of candidate target genes, such as prostaglandin I2 synthase (PTGIS), mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and phosphodiesterase 7A (PDE7A), for ELNs-contained cargo. In conclusion, our study indicates that B-ELNs can be considered candidate therapeutic carriers of bioactive compounds potentially able to protect vascular system against various stressors.

Dietary supplementation with New Zealand blackcurrant extract enhances fat oxidation during submaximal exercise in the heat

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effect of 7 days' supplementation with New Zealand blackcurrant extract on thermoregulation and substrate metabolism during running in the heat.

DESIGN

Randomized, double-blind, cross-over study.

METHODS

Twelve men and six women (mean±SD: Age 27±6 years, height 1.76±0.10m, mass 74±12kg, V̇O_2max 53.4±7.0mLkg^-1min^-1) completed one assessment of maximal aerobic capacity and one familiarisation trial (18°C, 40% relative humidity, RH), before ingesting 2×300mgday^-1 capsules of CurraNZ™ (each containing 105mg anthocyanin) or a visually matched placebo (2×300mg microcrystalline cellulose M102) for 7 days (washout 14 days). On day 7 of each supplementation period, participants completed 60min of fasted running at 65% V̇O_2max in hot ambient conditions (34°C and 40% relative humidity).

RESULTS

Carbohydrate oxidation was decreased in the NZBC trial [by 0.24gmin^-1 (95% CI: 0.21-0.27gmin^-1)] compared to placebo (p= 0.014, d=0.46), and fat oxidation was increased in the NZBC trial [by 0.12gmin^-1 (95% CI: 0.10 to 0.15gmin^-1)], compared to placebo (p=0.008, d=0.57). NZBC did not influence heart rate (p=0.963), rectal temperature (p=0.380), skin temperature (p=0.955), body temperature (p=0.214) or physiological strain index (p=0.705) during exercise.

CONCLUSIONS

Seven-days intake of 600mg NZBC extract increased fat oxidation without influencing cardiorespiratory or thermoregulatory variables during prolonged moderate intensity running in hot conditions.

Nutritional intervention with cyanidin hinders the progression of muscular dystrophy

Muscular Dystrophies are severe genetic diseases due to mutations in structural genes, characterized by progressive muscle wasting that compromises patients' mobility and respiratory functions. Literature underlined oxidative stress and inflammation as key drivers of these pathologies. Interestingly among different myofiber classes, type I fibers display a milder dystrophic phenotype showing increased oxidative metabolism. This work shows the benefits of a cyanidin-enriched diet, that promotes muscle fiber-type switch and reduced inflammation in dystrophic alpha-sarcoglyan (Sgca) null mice having, as a net outcome, morphological and functional rescue. Notably, this benefit is achieved also when the diet is administered in dystrophic animals when the signs of the disease are seriously evident. Our work provides compelling evidence that a cyanidin-rich diet strongly delays the progression of muscular dystrophies, paving the way for a combinatorial approach where nutritional-based reduction of muscle inflammation and oxidative stress facilitate the successful perspectives of definitive treatments.

Effects of New Zealand blackcurrant extract on sport climbing performance

PURPOSE

Blood flow to skeletal muscles and removal of metabolic by-products during a sport climb are essential to optimise performance and recovery. New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract has enhanced blood flow and performance in other exercise modalities. We examined the effect of NZBC extract on sport climbing performance and recovery.

METHODS

The study employed a double-blind, randomised, crossover design. Male sport climbers (n = 18, age 24 ± 6 years, height 179 ± 6 cm, mass 71.4 ± 7.8 kg, French grade 6a-8b) undertook 7 days supplementation of NZBC extract (600 mg day^-1 CurraNZ™ containing 210 mg anthocyanins) or a placebo (PL). Climbing ability was assessed through hang time (HT), pull-ups and total climbing time (TCT) in 3 intermittent climbing bouts on a Treadwall M6 rotating climbing wall to exhaustion with 20 min recovery between climbs. Heart rate (HR), blood lactate (BL), forearm girth (FG) and hand grip strength (HGS) were recorded.

RESULTS

NZBC extract had no effect on pull-ups but provided a trend for higher HT and significantly improved TCT (+23%) compared to PL (-11%) over three climbs. HR, BL, FG and HGS all indicated that 20 min was insufficient for physiological recovery between the three climbing bouts indicating accumulative fatigue regardless of supplement condition.

CONCLUSION

Despite indices of progressive fatigue across three bouts of climbing, NZBC extract facilitated not only a maintenance of TCT but an improved climbing endurance as compared with the PL condition. Blackcurrant anthocyanin-derived metabolites seem to affect physiological responses that facilitate sport climbing performance.

Induction of EpRE-mediated gene expression by a series of mediterranean botanicals and their constituents

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A variety of Mediterranean plant species, traditionally used for the prevention and treatment of several health conditions, contain ingredients with potential biological activity of which many remain unexplored. Among the beneficial health effects of bioactive phytochemicals is the activation of cellular defense mechanisms involving the activation of EpRE (electrophile responsive element) - mediated changes in gene expression.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to identify botanicals and their active constituents able to activate the EpRE mediated gene expression within a series of Mediterranean plant species known for their hepatoprotective and/or cardioprotective properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methanolic extracts of 18 botanicals were prepared and tested for their ability to induce gene expression in EpRE-LUX reporter cells. Subsequently, LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry) analysis combined with MAGMa (MS Annotation based on in silico Generated Metabolites) software for automated compound annotation was used to facilitate tentative identification of the active constituents within two of the active extracts. Selected annotated compounds were tested in the EpRE-LUX reporter gene assay followed by definite identification of the most active ones.

RESULTS

It appeared that 9 of the 18 extracts were able to activate EpRE-mediated gene expression. Many active ingredients of the methanolic extracts from Juglans regia and Rhamnus frangula were revealed. Among them, chrysophanol and aloe-emodin were confirmed to be active EpRE inducing ingredients and were definitely identified in the Rhamnus Frangula extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The protective effect of half of the tested botanical varieties via the activation of EpRE-mediated gene expression was confirmed. The study also provided an example of how in vitro bioassays can be combined with LC-MS and the automated chemical annotation software MAGMa, to identify biologically active constituents in complex botanical extracts.

The first synthesis of CdFe12O19 nanostructures and nanocomposites and considering of magnetic, optical, electrochemical and photocatalytic properties

CdFe₁₂O₁₉ nanostructures and nanocomposites were synthesized via sol-gel auto-combustion method. The CdFe₁₂O₁₉/CdTiO₃ nanocomposites were prepared at 850 °C after 1 h calcination, when molar ratio of Cd:Ti is 1:1. Effects of the molar ratio of Cd:Ti, type of precursor and calcination temperature were investigated. Both nanostructures and nanocomposites were ferromagnetic at room temperature, with saturation magnetizations (Ms) 2.561 and 11.269 emu g^-1, and coercivities (Hc) 696.517 and 969.068 Oe, respectively. SEM, TEM, FTIR, EDS and XRD showed morphology, composition and particle size of the products. VSM, UV-vis and CV were used to investigate the magnetic, optical and electrochemical properties. The band gap values of the nanocomposites were larger than that in the nanostructures. Also photocatalytic properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. This is the first attempt on the study of photocatalytic performance of the cadmium hexaferrite nanostructures and nanocomposites. The effects of various factors including composition and particle size of the nanocomposites, the Ti:Cd molar ratio and also kind of organic dye on the photocatalytic behavior of the products were evaluated. The photocatalytic activity achieved a maximum when ratio of Ti:Cd was 1:1. Methyl orange, methylene blue and methylene violet decompositions were about 71.35, 55.08 and 62.27% by nanocomposites, respectively.

Effects of anthocyanin-rich purple corn (Zea mays L.) stover silage on nutrient utilization, rumen fermentation, plasma antioxidant capacity, and mammary gland gene expression in dairy goats1

Eight healthy multiparous Saanen dairy goats (41.50 ± 1.84 kg) were assigned to a double 4 × 4 Latin square design. The four treatment diets were: (i) negative control, rice straw (NC); (ii) first positive control, sticky corn stover silage (PC1); (iii) second positive control, PC1 with 1 g/d commercial purple corn pigment (PC2); and (iv) anthocyanin-rich purple corn stover silage (PSS; AR). DMI did not differ (P > 0.05) among the treatments. Goats receiving the NC tended (P < 0.05) to reduce nutrient apparent digestibility, nitrogen (N) absorption, N retention, and volatile fatty acid production relative to the other groups. The levels of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in plasma were greater (P < 0.05) in goats fed PC2 and AR compared with NC and PC1. The inclusion of PC2 and AR increased (P < 0.05) the abundance of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NFE2L2), but decreased (P < 0.05) the level of tumor necrosis factor in the mammary gland. Moreover, goats receiving AR tended to increase (P < 0.05) the levels of SOD2, GPX1, and GPX2 mRNA expression in the mammary gland. There were significant (P < 0.05) positive correlations between DPPH scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity, SOD, catalase enzymes in plasma, and the abundance of NFE2L2 in the mammary gland. In addition, stronger (P < 0.05) positive correlations were noted between the expression of several inflammation related and antioxidant genes. Collectively, the results from the current study indicated that the consumption of anthocyanin-rich PSS by dairy goats had the potential to enhance antioxidant potential by improving antioxidant capacity in plasma and by modulating the abundance of several inflammation related and antioxidant genes in the mammary gland.

Anthocyanins and metabolites from purple rice inhibit IL-1β-induced matrix metalloproteinases expression in human articular chondrocytes through the NF-κB and ERK/MAPK pathway

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, which is closely related to cartilage degradation. Anthocyanins, a natural flavonoid pigments, exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effect of anthocyanin on inflammatory response in OA has not been investigated. Our results showed that cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) and peonidin-3-O-glucoside (P3G), the main anthocyanins found in three Thai purple rice cultivars, attenuated the inhibition of porcine cartilage degradation in an experimental model. The effects of three Thai purple rice extracts were related to their high concentration of anthocyanins. Moreover, protocatechuic acid (PA), the main metabolite of anthocyanin, has chondroprotective potential by reducing glycosaminoglycans and collagen breakdown in IL-1β/OSM-induced porcine cartilage explants in long-term condition. The induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) caused by IL-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes was also attenuated by C3G, P3G, and their metabolites. Furthermore, C3G, P3G, and their metabolites pretreatment significantly inhibited IκBα degradation, the level of p-p65, and ERK/MAPK pathway. Additionally, PA pretreatment enhanced the phosphorylation of JNK in IL-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes. These findings indicated that anthocyanin in Thai purple rice exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in IL-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes by inhibiting NF-κB and ERK/MAPK signaling pathway.

Dietary Anthocyanins: A Review of the Exercise Performance Effects and Related Physiological Responses

Foods and supplements high in anthocyanins are gaining popularity within sports nutrition. Anthocyanins are pigments within berries and other colorful fruits and vegetables. They have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions that improve recovery from exercise. Furthermore, anthocyanins can also affect vasoactive properties, including decreasing mean arterial blood pressure and increasing vasodilation during exercise. In vitro observations have shown anthocyanin- and metabolite-induced activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and human vascular cell migration. However, effects of anthocyanins on exercise performance without a prior muscle-damaging or metabolically demanding bout of exercise are less clear. For example, exercise performance effects have been observed for blackcurrant but are less apparent for cherry, therefore indicating that the benefits could be due to the specific source-dependent anthocyanins. The mechanisms by which anthocyanin intake can enhance exercise performance may include effects on blood flow, metabolic pathways, and peripheral muscle fatigue, or a combination of all three. This narrative review focuses on the experimental evidence for anthocyanins to improve exercise performance in humans.

Treatment of NASH with Antioxidant Therapy: Beneficial Effect of Red Cabbage on Type 2 Diabetic Rats

Aims

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a major role in type 2 diabetes and its vascular and hepatic complications, and novel therapeutic approaches include natural antioxidants. Our previous chemical and biological studies demonstrated the antioxidant activities of red cabbage (RC), and here, we aimed to determine the in vivo effects of 2-month long RC consumption using a high-fat/high-fructose model of diabetic rats.

Results

This vegetable, associated with lifestyle measurement, was shown to decrease OS and increase vascular endothelial NO synthase expression, ensuring vascular homeostasis. In the liver, RC consumption decreased OS by inhibiting p22phox expression and Nrf2 degradation and increasing catalase activity. It inhibited the activation of SREBP (1c, 2), ChREBP, NF-κB, ERK1/2, PPARγ, and GS and SIRT1 decrease, as observed in diabetic rats.

Conclusion/innovation

RC consumption led to metabolic profile improvement, together with hepatic function improvements. Although lifestyle changes are not sufficient to prevent diabetic complications, enrichment with RC avoids progression hepatic complications. This antioxidant strategy using RC does not only able to increase antioxidant defense, such as classical antioxidant, but also able to assure a metabolic and energetic balance to reverse complications. Whereas traditional medical therapy failed to reverse NASH in diabetic patients, consumption of RC should be a natural therapy to treat it.

Alpha-lipoic acid, but not di-hydrolipoic acid, activates Nrf2 response in primary human umbilical-vein endothelial cells and protects against TNF-α induced endothelium dysfunction

The antioxidants role in cell response regulation attracted great interest in the last decades and it is undergoing to a profound reconsideration. The mere concept of "biological antioxidant" has been frequently misconceived or misused, possibly leading to the misinterpretation of some experimental observation. Organosulfur compounds in general and α-lipoic acid, a dithiol molecule, can be considered a typical example of the kind. Reduced α-lipoic acid, dehydrolipoic acid has been in fact originally considered a bona fide, reducing, electron donor molecule. A more recent approach, according to stoichiometric and thermodynamic evidences, lead to a reinterpretation of the biochemical role of "antioxidants". The electrophilic nature of oxidized nucleophilic molecules, including α-lipoic acid, renders more plausible a mechanism based on the ability to activate Nrf2/EpRE mediated hormetic response. In this study, we demonstrate that nmolar concentrations of oxidized α-lipoic acid, but not dehydrolipoic acid, protect human umbilical primary endothelial cells (HUVEC) from TNF-α induced dysfunction, inhibit NF-κB activation and block apoptosis following the activation of Nrf2 transcription factor. Our observations corroborate the concept that the major, if not the unique, mechanism by which α-lipoic acid can non-enzymatically exert its reducing activity is related to the electrophilic nature of the oxidized form.

A serving of blueberry (V. corymbosum) acutely improves peripheral arterial dysfunction in young smokers and non-smokers: two randomized, controlled, crossover pilot studies

Several studies have documented the important role of polyphenol-rich foods in the modulation of vascular remodelling and function. This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of a single portion of blueberry (V. corymbosum) to acutely improve peripheral arterial dysfunction in a group of young volunteers. Twenty-four healthy males (12 non-smokers and 12 smokers) were recruited for two different randomized, controlled, crossover pilot acute studies. In the first study, non-smokers were exposed to a control treatment (C; 300 mL of water with sugar) and a blueberry treatment (BB; 300 g of blueberry). In the second study, smokers underwent 3 different protocols: (1) - smoking treatment (S); (2) - control treatment (CS; 300 mL of water with sugar + smoking); (3) - blueberry treatment (BS; 300 g of blueberry + smoking). Each treatment (1 day long) was separated by a one week washout period. Blood pressure, peripheral arterial function (reactive hyperemia index, RHI, a marker of endothelial function) and arterial stiffness (digital augmentation index, dAix and dAix normalized by considering a heart rate of 75 bpm, dAix@75) were measured before and after each treatment. In the first study, the consumption of blueberry and control treatment acutely increased peripheral arterial function in the group of non-smokers. The improvement in RHI was higher and significantly different after blueberry treatment compared to the control treatment (54.8 ± 8.4% BB vs. 28.2 ± 8.3% C; p = 0.01). No effects were observed for markers of arterial stiffness, blood pressure and heart rate. Acute cigarette smoke significantly increased blood pressure and heart rate, while no significant effect was registered in peripheral arterial function and stiffness. The intake of blueberry and control treatment before a cigarette did not counteract the increase in blood pressure and heart rate, while it significantly improved peripheral arterial function. In particular, a significant increase was observed following BS (35.2 ± 7.5% RHI; p = 0.02) and CS treatments (34.6 ± 11.9% RHI; p = 0.02) when compared to only smoking treatment. No difference between BS and CS was detected. In conclusion, the intake of blueberry and control treatments acutely improved peripheral arterial dysfunction both in smoker and in non-smoker subjects. Further studies should be performed to confirm the results obtained and reveal the potential mechanisms of blueberry in the improvement of endothelial function.

Effects of grape consumption on biomarkers of inflammation, endothelial function, and PBMC gene expression in obese subjects

This study investigated effects of grape consumption on biomarkers of cardiovascular health in obese participants in both postprandial and chronic settings. Twenty obese adults participated in this randomized, placebo controlled, double-blinded crossover trial. Participants were randomized to consume 60 g freeze-dried polyphenol-rich whole grape powder (GP) or placebo (PBO) followed by high fat high carbohydrate (HFHC) meal challenge. Following acute challenge, participants consumed their respective treatment daily for 4 weeks to determine effects of chronic consumption. Consumption of GP with HFHC meal significantly increased nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at 3 h (p < 0.05) and decreased plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) concentration at 5 h (p < 0.05) after meal challenge compared with PBO. Following 4 weeks of daily GP consumption, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) plasma concentration increased compared with PBO (p < 0.05), however baseline values differed between treatments. In conclusion, GP consumption resulted in decreased vasoconstrictor ET-1 concentration and increased gene expression related to oxidative stress defense following HFHC meal. Except for increase in sVCAM-1 concentration, 4 weeks of chronic GP consumption had little effect on cardiovascular biomarkers measured in this study. This trial was registered: clinicaltrials.gov NCT01674231.

Effects of anthocyanins and their gut metabolites on adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet activation and their aggregation with monocytes and neutrophils

Accumulating evidence suggests that anthocyanins play an important role in the cardioprotective effects associated with consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods. These benefits may partly be attributed to their effects on platelets, significant contributors to cardiovascular disease development. This study aimed to investigate the impact of physiologically relevant concentrations of anthocyanins and their metabolites on platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte aggregation. Whole blood from seven healthy volunteers was treated with anthocyanins: cyanidin-3-arabinoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, delphinidin-3-glucoside and peonidin-3-glucoside at 0.1 μM concentration or gut metabolites: 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, protocatechuic, vanillic, ferulic and hippuric acids at 0.5 μM, 0.2 μM, 2 μM, 1 μM, 2 μM concentration, respectively. Markers of adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet activation (P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa expression) and platelet-monocyte and platelet-neutrophil aggregation were analyzed using flow cytometry. Cyanidin-3-arabinoside, delphinidin-3-glucoside, and peonidin-3-glucoside decreased agonist-induced P-selectin expression, while cyanidin-3-galactoside and cyanidin-3-arabinoside reduced platelet-neutrophil aggregation. Hippuric and protocatechuic acids inhibited P-selectin expression, ferulic acid reduced platelet-monocyte aggregation, while 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde affected P-selectin expression, platelet-neutrophil and monocyte aggregation. Only cyanidin-3-glucoside and protocatechuic acid decreased GPIIb-IIIa expression. These results demonstrate the bioactivity of anthocyanins and their gut metabolites at physiologically relevant concentrations on platelet function and interaction with leukocytes, presenting mechanisms by which they contribute to the beneficial effects of habitual consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods on cardiovascular health.

Functional Anthocyanin-Rich Sausages Diminish Colorectal Cancer in an Animal Model and Reduce Pro-Inflammatory Bacteria in the Intestinal Microbiota

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common neoplasia in Europe, where it accounts for 28.2 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In an effort to decrease the incidence of this disease, various prevention measures are being studied, one of which are anthocyanin-rich foods. Anthocyanins are potent antioxidant flavonoids mainly found in flowers and colorful fruits and vegetables. These nutraceuticals have diverse biological functions once ingested, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antitumor functions. In order to test the preventive effect of these flavonoids against colorectal cancer, an animal model (Rattus norvegicus F344) was developed. In this model two doses of azoxymethane (10 mg/kg) and two treatments with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) were administered to the animals. For 20 weeks they were fed either control rat feed, control sausages, or functional sausages containing 0.1% (w/w) of anthocyanins from a mixture of dehydrated blackberries and strawberries. At the end of that period, the animals were sacrificed and their antioxidant plasma levels and digestive tract tissues were analyzed. The results revealed a statistically significant reduction in the number of colon tumors in the functional sausages cohort with respect to the control animals and an increase in the FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) total antioxidant activity in that same cohort. Colon microbiota differences were also examined via metagenomics 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing, revealing a significant reduction in populations of the pro-inflammatory Bilophila wadsworthia. Therefore, the design of functional processed meat products, such as ones enriched with anthocyanins, may be an effective strategy for preventing inflammatory digestive diseases and colorectal cancer in human populations.

Comparison of Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) and Vitamin C via Antioxidative and Epigenetic Effects in Human

Background

Chemopreventive effects and the underlying mechanisms of blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) are not clearly understood in human. We hypothesized blueberry would work via antioxidative and epigenetic modulation, which is similar to vitamin C.

Methods

We performed a pilot and non-inferiority study in healthy young women (n = 12), who consumed vitamin C (1 g/d) or 240 mL of blueberry juice (total polyphenols 300 mg and proanthocyanidin 76 mg/d) for 2 weeks. We analyzed 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in their urine, and global and specific DNA methylation at the NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), or DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) genes in their blood.

Results

Urinary 8-OHdG levels were reduced by blueberry consumption rather than by vitamin C. The methylation (%) of the MTHFR was significantly decreased in blueberry-consumers and the antioxidant-susceptible subgroup, whose urinary MDA levels were decreased by the intervention. We also found a positive correlation between changes of urinary 8-OHdG and of DNA methylation at the MTHFR or the DNMT1 (P < 0.05). However, the genetic polymorphism of the MTHFR (C677T in exon 4) did not affect any above markers.

Conclusions

Blueberry juice shows similar anti-oxidative or anti-premutagenic activity to vitamin C and the potential as a methylation inhibitor for the MTHFR and the DNMT1 in human.

Effect of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Performance during the Running Based Anaerobic Sprint Test in Trained Youth and Recreationally Active Male Football Players

It was observed previously that New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract reduced slowing of the maximal 15 m sprint speed during the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test. We examined the effect of NZBC extract on the performance of the Running Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST, 6 × 35-m sprints with 10 seconds passive recovery) in trained youth and recreationally active football players. Fifteen recreationally active (University team) (age: 20 ± 1 years, height: 174 ± 19 cm, body mass: 80 ± 13 kg) and nine trained youth players (English professional club) (age: 17 ± 0 years, height: 178 ± 8 cm, body mass: 69 ± 9 kg, mean ± SD) participated in three testing sessions. Prior to the RASTs, participants consumed two capsules of NZBC extract (600 mg∙day⁻¹ CurraNZ^®) or placebo (P) for 7 days (double blind, randomised, cross-over design, wash-out at least 14 days). Ability difference between groups was shown by sprint 1 time. In the placebo condition, trained youth players had faster times for sprint 1 (5.00 ± 0.05 s) than recreationally active players (5.42 ± 0.08 s) (p < 0.01). In trained youth players, there was a trend for an effect of NZBC extract (p = 0.10) on the slowing of the sprint 1 time. NZBC extract reduced slowing of the sprint 5 time (P: 0.56 ± 0.22 s; NZBC: 0.35 ± 0.25, p = 0.02) and this was not observed in recreationally active players (P: 0.57 ± 0.48 s; NZBC: 0.56 ± 0.33, p = 0.90). For fatigue index, expressed as a % change in fastest sprint time, there was a strong trend to be lower in both trained youth and recreationally active players combined by NZBC extract (P: −13 ± 7%; NZBC: −11 ± 6%, p = 0.06) with 12 participants (five trained youth) experiencing less fatigue. New Zealand blackcurrant extract seems to benefit repeated sprint performance only in trained football players.

Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside Modulates the In Vitro Inflammatory Crosstalk between Intestinal Epithelial and Endothelial Cells

Intestinal epithelium represents a protective physical barrier and actively contributes to the mucosal immune system. Polarized basolateral intestinal secretion of inflammatory mediators, followed by activation of NF-κB signaling and inflammatory pathways in endothelial cells, efficiently triggers extravasation of neutrophils from the vasculature, therefore contributing to the development and maintenance of intestinal inflammation. Proper regulation of NF-κB activation at the epithelial interface is crucial for the maintenance of physiological tissue homeostasis. Many papers reported that anthocyanins, a group of compounds belonging to flavonoids, possess anti-inflammatory effects and modulate NF-κB activity. In this study, by using a coculture in vitro system, we aimed to evaluate the effects of TNF-α-stimulated intestinal cells on endothelial cells activation, as well as the protective effects of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G). In this model, TNF-α induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB and TNF-α and IL-8 gene expression in Caco-2 cells, whereas C3G pretreatment dose-dependently reduced these effects. Furthermore, TNF-α-stimulated Caco-2 cells induced endothelial cells activation with increased E-selectin and VCAM-1 mRNA, leukocyte adhesion, and NF-κB levels in HUVECs, which were inhibited by C3G. We demonstrated that selective inhibition of the NF-κB pathway in epithelial cells represents the main mechanism by which C3G exerts these protective effects. Thus, anthocyanins could contribute to the management of chronic gut inflammatory diseases.

Low nanomolar caffeic acid attenuates high glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction in primary human umbilical-vein endothelial cells by affecting NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways

Hyperglycemia contributes to dysregulate endothelial function associated with diabetes, leading to initiation and propagation of vascular complications and dysfunction. Caffeic acid (CA), a dietary hydroxycinnamic acid abundant in coffee, has been reported to exert antidiabetic effects in rat models. Herein, we investigated the molecular effects of physiological concentrations of CA (10 nM) against endothelial dysfunction induced by high glucose (HG) in human endothelial cells (HUVECs). HUVECs were exposed to HG 25 mM, to mimic diabetic condition, in presence of CA. Intracellular redox status (reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant activity levels), and NF-κB pathway were examined. We also evaluated the involvement of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/electrophile responsive element (EpRE) pathway. Our data show that CA inhibits HG-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB and the downstream expression of endothelial adhesion molecule 1 and restores antioxidant levels by upregulating Nrf2/EpRE pathway. Our data suggest that CA can suppress several aspects of HG-induced endothelial dysfunction through the modulation of intracellular redox status controlled by the transcription factor Nrf2. These findings highlight that low physiological concentration of CA achievable specifically upon food consumption are able to prevent endothelial dysfunction associated with inflammation and oxidative stress induced by high concentration of glucose. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(1):54-62, 2017.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside ameliorates palmitate-induced insulin resistance by modulating IRS-1 phosphorylation and release of endothelial derived vasoactive factors

Increased plasma levels of free fatty acids, including palmitic acid (PA), cause insulin resistance in endothelium characterized by a decreased synthesis of insulin-mediated vasodilator nitric oxide (NO), and by an increased production of the vasoconstrictor protein, endothelin-1. Several in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that anthocyanins, natural phenols commonly present in food and vegetables from Mediterranean Diet, exert significant cardiovascular health-promoting activities. These effects are possibly mediated by a positive regulation of the transcription factor Nrf2 and activation of cellular antioxidant and cytoprotective genes. The present study examined, at a molecular level, the effects of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), a widely distributed anthocyanin, on PA-induced endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our results indicate that C3G pretreatment effectively reverses the effects of PA on PI3K/Akt axis, and restores eNOS expression and NO release, altered by PA. We observed that these effects were exerted by changes on the phosphorylation of IRS-1 on specific serine and tyrosine residues modulated by PA through the modulation of JNK and IKK activity. Furthermore, silencing Nrf2 transcripts demonstrated that the protective effects of C3G are directly related to the activation of Nrf2.

The multifunctionality of berries toward blood platelets and the role of berry phenolics in cardiovascular disorders

Diet and nutrition have an important influence on the prophylaxis and progression of cardiovascular disease; one example is the inhibition of blood platelet functions by specific components of fruits and vegetables. Garlic, onion, ginger, dark chocolate and polyunsaturated fatty acids all reduce blood platelet aggregation. A number of fruits contain a range of cardioprotective antioxidants and vitamins, together with a large number of non-nutrient phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds, which may possess both antioxidant properties and anti-platelet activity. Fresh berries and berry extracts possess high concentrations of phenolic compounds, i.e. phenolic acid, stilbenoids, flavonoids and lignans. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of current knowledge of the anti-platelet activity of berries, which form an integral part of the human diet. It describes the effects of phenolic compounds present in a number of berries, i.e. black chokeberries - aronia berries (Aronia melanocarpa), blueberries (Vaccinium myrtillus), cranberries (Vaccinium sect. Oxycoccus), sea buckthorn berries (Hippophae rhamnoides) and grapes (Vitis), as well as various commercial products from berries (i.e. juices), on platelets and underlying mechanisms. Studies show that the effects of berries on platelet activity are dependent on not only the concentrations of the phenolic compounds in the berries or the class of phenolic compounds, but also the types of berry and the form (fresh berry, juice or medicinal product). Different results indicate that berries may play a role in the prevention of cardiovascular disorders, but the development of well-controlled clinical studies with berries is encouraged.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside inhibits NF-kB signalling in intestinal epithelial cells exposed to TNF-α and exerts protective effects via Nrf2 pathway activation

Chronic intestinal inflammatory disorders, such as Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs), are characterized by excessive release of proinflammatory mediators, intestinal barrier dysfunction and excessive activation of NF-kB cascade. Previous studies shown that TNF-α plays a central role in intestinal inflammation of IBDs and supported beneficial effects of flavonoids against chronic inflammatory diseases. In this study, we employed an in vitro model of acute intestinal inflammation using intestinal Caco-2 cells exposed to TNF-α. The protective effects of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), an anthocyanin widely distributed in mediterranean diet, were then evaluated. Caco-2 cells exposure to TNF-α activated NF-kB proinflammatory pathway and induced IL6 and COX-2 expression. Cells pretreatment for 24h with C3G (20-40μM) prevented TNF-α-induced changes, and improved intracellular redox status. Our results demonstrated that C3G, also without any kind of stimulus, increased the translocation of the transcription factor Nrf2 into the nucleus so activating antioxidant and detoxifying genes. In conclusion, C3G exhibited protective effects through the inhibition of NF-kB signalling in Caco-2 cells and these beneficial effects appear to be due to its ability to activate cellular protective responses modulated by Nrf2. These data suggest that anthocyanins could contribute, as complementary or preventive approaches, to the management of chronic inflammatory diseases.