Modulation of redox-sensitive transcription factors with polyphenols as pathogenetically grounded approach in therapy of systemic inflammatory response

Shielding Human Adipocytes From Inflammation: The Protective Potential of Polyphenol-Rich Opuntia ficus-indica Cladode Extract

Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) has attracted much attention as a source of antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds. We hypothesize that the antioxidant content of OFI cladode extract may improve adipocyte dysfunction resulting from inflammatory stimulation of hypertrophic adipocytes. To this end, the properties of OFI cladode hydroalcoholic extract were evaluated in terms of antioxidant activity, regulation of adipocyte inflammation, and adipocyte/monocyte interaction in human adipocytes rendered dysfunctional by the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The major phenolic compounds identified were isorhamnetin derivatives and phenolic acids, including piscidic and eucomic acids. Our results show that OFI cladode extract exhibits antiradical activities and reduces the adhesion and transmigration activity of monocytes to inflamed adipocytes by inhibiting various cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules such as interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 by ∼80%, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXC-L)10, macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) from 40% to 50%, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) by 70% at the higher concentration. In structurally and mechanistically by protein-ligand docking profiling study, piscidic acid proved to be the best potential candidate for a regulatory interaction with the activities of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF-2) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In summary, these data highlight the potential of OFI as a dietary supplement in nutritional treatments aimed at combating the inflammatory stigmata of obesity.

Antioxidant, Polyphenol, Physical, and Sensory Changes in Myofibrillar Protein Gels Supplemented with Polyphenol-Rich Plant-Based Additives

BACKGROUND

Plant-based additives such as blackcurrant juice and pomace, as well as herbal extracts from Melissa officinalis and Centella asiatica, possess well-established health-promoting properties. This study aimed to investigate how the incorporation of polyphenol-rich plant-based additives into a myofibrillar protein matrix could enhance the nutritional value, antioxidant potential, and sensory quality of novel food gels.

METHODS

Myofibrillar protein gels were enriched with selected plant-based additives. Antioxidant properties were assessed using the ABTS radical cation decolorization assay, DPPH radical scavenging assay, and the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Polyphenol profiles were determined with emphasis on flavonols, flavan-3-ols, and chlorogenic acids. Physicochemical properties including pH, color, texture, energetic value, dry matter, and ash contents were measured. Sensory evaluation was conducted using consumer preference tests and descriptive sensory profiling.

RESULTS

Enriched gels contained bioactive compounds such as catechins, procyanidins, chlorogenic acids, and anthocyanins, whose presence correlated with distinct antioxidant activities. Blackcurrant pomace significantly elevated both total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity, imparting a vivid red-purple color that influenced consumer perception. Melissa officinalis extract enhanced antioxidant potential and introduced a mild, pleasant aroma. Centella asiatica extract further improved the nutritional profile and oxidative stability of the gels, demonstrating additive and synergistic effects in both functional and sensory dimensions.

CONCLUSIONS

Polyphenol-rich plant-based additives, particularly blackcurrant pomace and extracts from M. officinalis and C. asiatica, markedly improve the antioxidant capacity, nutritional value, and sensory appeal of myofibrillar protein-based food gels. These findings support their potential application in the development of functional food products tailored to consumer expectations.

Modulation of Δ5- and Δ6-desaturases in the brain-liver axis

OBJECTIVE

Obesity is associated with liver depletion of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAS) promoting steatosis and inflammation, whose levels are maintained by diet or biosynthesis involving Δ-5D, Δ-6D desaturases and elongases.

METHOD

We aimed to assess Δ-5D and Δ-6D activities in liver and brain from mice fed a control diet (CD) or high-fat diet (HFD) for four to sixteen weeks.

RESULTS

HFD led to (1) an early (4 weeks) enhancement in liver Δ-5D, Δ-6D, and PPAR-α activities, without changes in oxidative stress, liver damage or fat accumulation; (2) a latter progressive loss in hepatic desaturation with insufficient compensatory increases in mRNA and protein expression, leading to ω-3 PUFA depletion, PPAR-α down-regulation reducing FA oxidation, and liver steatosis with enhancement in lipogenesis; and (3) brain ω-3 PUFA depletion after 12 to 16 weeks of HFD feeding.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the brain-liver axis is drastically affected by obesity in a time dependent fashion.

Understanding the molecular bridges between the drugs and immune cell

The interactions of drugs with the host's immune cells determine the drug's efficacy and adverse effects in patients. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID), such as corticosteroids, NSAIDs, and immunosuppressants, affect the immune cells and alter the immune response. Molecularly, drugs can interact with immune cells via cell surface receptors, changing the antigen presentation by modifying the co-stimulatory molecules and interacting with the signaling pathways of T cells, B cells, Natural killer (NK) cells, mast cells, basophils, and macrophages. Immunotoxicity, resulting from drug-induced changes in redox status, generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)/Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS), and alterations in antioxidant enzymes within immune cells, leads to immunodeficiency. This, in turn, causes allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, and cytokine release syndrome (CRS). The treatment options should include the evaluation of immune status and utilization of the concept of pharmacogenomics to minimize the chances of immunotoxicity. Many strategies in redox, like targeting the redox pathway or using redox-active agents, are available for the modulation of the immune system and developing drugs. Case studies highlight significant drug-immune cell interactions and patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of understanding these complexities. The future direction focuses on the drugs to deliver antiviral therapy, new approaches to immunomodulation, and modern technologies for increasing antidote effects with reduced toxicity. In conclusion, in-depth knowledge of the interaction between drugs and immune cells is critical to protect the patient from the adverse effects of the drug and improve therapeutic outcomes of the treatment process. This review focuses on the multifaceted interactions of drugs and their consequences at the cellular levels of immune cells.

Oxidative Stress in Pediatric Asthma: Sources, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential of Antioxidants

Pediatric asthma is a common respiratory condition in children, characterized by a complex interplay of environmental and genetic factors. Evidence shows that the airways of stimulated asthmatic patients have increased oxidative stress, but the exact mechanisms through which this stress contributes to asthma progression are not fully understood. Oxidative stress originates from inflammatory cells in the airways, producing significant amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). External factors such as cigarette smoke, particulate matter, and atmospheric pollutants also contribute to ROS and RNS levels. The accumulation of these reactive species disrupts the cellular redox balance, leading to heightened oxidative stress, which activates cellular signaling pathways and modulates the release of inflammatory factors, worsening asthma inflammation. Therefore, understanding the sources and impacts of oxidative stress in pediatric asthma is crucial to developing antioxidant-based treatments. This review examines the sources of oxidative stress in children with asthma, the role of oxidative stress in asthma development, and the potential of antioxidants as a therapeutic strategy for pediatric asthma.

Intestinal Effects of Brewers' Spent Grain Extract In Ovo (Gallus gallus)-A Pilot Study

Upcycling brewers' spent grain (BSG) into poultry feed needs to be optimized. Since broiler chickens inefficiently digest fiber, we created a water-soluble BSG extract (BSGE) to explore this fraction's potential nutritional benefits. We utilized intra-amniotic administration (in ovo) to target the gastrointestinal tract of broiler embryos. BSGE increased villus surface area and goblet cell quantity and size, implying improved duodenal development. The extract also changed cecal Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Clostridium abundances. Synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy, along with zinc and iron transporter relative expression, did not reveal significant changes by BSGE. These findings highlight the potential for BSGE to be a functional feed component, underscoring the potential value of upcycling this byproduct. This pilot study supports future work exploring the impact of BSGE within feed and its effects over long-term consumption.

Therapeutic potential of 5-aminolevulinic acid in metabolic disorders: Current insights and future directions

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is an essential compound in the biosynthesis of heme, playing a critical role in various physiological processes within the human body. This review provides the thorough analysis of the latest research on the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic benefits of 5-ALA in managing metabolic disorders. The ability of 5-ALA to influence immune response and inflammation, oxidative/nitrosative stress, antioxidant system, mitochondrial functions, as well as carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, is mediated by molecular mechanisms associated with the suppression of the transcription factor NF-κB signaling pathway, activation of the transcription factor Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) system leading to the formation of heme-derived reaction products (carbon monoxide, ferrous iron, biliverdin, and bilirubin), which may contribute to HO-1-dependent cytoprotection through antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Additionally, it regulates the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha, cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV, uncoupling proteins UCP1 and UCP2, glucose transporters GLUT1 and GLUT2, and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c in relevant tissues. Randomized controlled trials have confirmed the effects of 5-ALA on glucose control in both prediabetic and diabetic patients, noting its safety and tolerability, as well as the safety of its combined use with oral hypoglycemic agents. Only minor side effects have been reported. However, the impact of 5-ALA on markers of systemic inflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress, and dyslipidemia was not evaluated in these studies. At the same time, preparations of 5-ALA may potentially be effective not only in the treatment of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but also in other conditions associated with systemic inflammation, oxidative or nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. It has been concluded that the promising advancement of formulations containing 5-ALA may pave the way for new strategies in preventing and treating these diseases, with subsequent preclinical and clinical trials likely to follow.

Caveolae and caveolin-1 as targets of dietary polyphenols for protection against vascular endothelial dysfunction

Caveolae, consisting of caveolin-1 proteins, are ubiquitously present in endothelial cells and contribute to normal cardiovascular functions by acting as a platform for cellular signaling pathways as well as transcytosis and endocytosis. However, caveolin-1 is thought to have a proatherogenic role by inhibiting endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity and Nrf2 activation, or by promoting inflammation through NF-κB activation. Dietary polyphenols were suggested to exert anti-atherosclerotic effects by a mechanism involving the inhibition of endothelial dysfunction, by which they can regulate redox-sensitive signaling pathways in relation to NF-κB and Nrf2 activation. Some monomeric polyphenols and microbiota-derived catabolites from monomeric polyphenols or polymeric tannins might be responsible for the inhibition, because they can be transferred into the circulation from the digestive tract. Several polyphenols were reported to modulate caveolin-1 expression or its localization in caveolae. Therefore, we hypothesized that circulating polyphenols affect caveolae functions by altering its structure leading to the release of caveolin-1 from caveolae, and attenuating redox-sensitive signaling pathway-dependent caveolin-1 overexpression. Further studies using circulating polyphenols at a physiologically relevant level are necessary to clarify the mechanism of action of dietary polyphenols targeting caveolae and caveolin-1.

Desmodium styracifolium: Botanical and ethnopharmacological insights, phytochemical investigations, and prospects in pharmacology and pharmacotherapy

The purpose of this inquiry is to provide a conprehensive summary and analysis of the literature concerning the pharmacological properties of components that can be extracted from Desmodium styracifolium, a preparation in Chinese medicine. This study also aims to explore their potential application in elaborating medicinal products for the effective prevention and treatment of such conditions as urolithiasis, cholelithiasis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, pro-oxidant and inflammatory processes, etc. Several experimental studies confirmed the potential of D. styracifolium to influence mineral metabolism, to decrease the concentration of constituents involved in the formation of urinary calculi, and to reduce mineral encrustation in the urinary tract, as well as to alleviate the damage caused by crystal structures. This beneficial impact is achieved through a combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, along with urine alkalinization. The cholelitholytic, choleretic, and hepatoprotective effects of D. styracifolium plants have been confirmed, primarily ascribed to the activation of the hepatic Xα receptor and the bile acid receptor, farnesoid X receptor, by the flavonoid shaftoside. Special attention is focused on the potential therapeutic applications of flavonoids derived from D. styracifolium for diseases associated with the development of chronic inflammation and systemic response, emphasizing the ability of flavonoids to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by acting directly and through the modulation of transcription factors. It is concluded that new strategies for the prevention and treatment of urolithiasis, cholelithiasis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, acute and chronic inflammatory processes may rely on the promising development of dosage forms of D. styracifolium with their subsequent preclinical and clinical trials.

Unraveling the parahormetic mechanism underlying the health-protecting effects of grapeseed procyanidins

Proanthocyanidins (PACs), the predominant constituents within Grape Seed Extract (GSE), are intricate compounds composed of interconnected flavan-3-ol units. Renowned for their health-affirming properties, PACs offer a shield against a spectrum of inflammation associated diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, degenerations and possibly cancer. While monomeric and dimeric PACs undergo some absorption within the gastrointestinal tract, their larger oligomeric and polymeric counterparts are not bioavailable. However, higher molecular weight PACs engage with the colonic microbiota, fostering the production of bioavailable metabolites that undergo metabolic processes, culminating in the emergence of bioactive agents capable of modulating physiological processes. Within this investigation, a GSE enriched with polymeric PACs was employed to explore in detail their impact. Through comprehensive analysis, the present study unequivocally verified the gastrointestinal-mediated transformation of medium to high molecular weight polymeric PACs, thereby establishing the bioaccessibility of a principal catabolite termed 5-(3',4'-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone (VL). Notably, our findings, encompassing cell biology, chemistry and proteomics, converge to the proposal of the notion of the capacity of VL to activate, upon oxidation to the corresponding quinone, the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway-an intricate process that incites cellular defenses and mitigates stress-induced responses, such as a challenge brought by TNFα. This mechanistic paradigm seamlessly aligns with the concept of para-hormesis, ultimately orchestrating the resilience to stress and the preservation of cellular redox equilibrium and homeostasis as benchmarks of health.

Influence of pallet rich plasma, quercetin and their combination on activity of nitric oxide cycle enzymes in nasal mucosa of patients with atrophic rhinitis

OBJECTIVE

Aim: To study the general activity of NO synthases (gNOS), the activity of inducible and constitutive isoforms of NO synthase, the activity of arginases, and the concentration of nitrites in the nasal mucosa under the conditions of local treatment of chronic atrophic rhinitis (AR) with quercetin and platelet-rich plasma (PRP therapy)..

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 118 patients divided into two groups: control (n=20) and experimental (patients with AR, n=98). Experimental group was divided into 4 subgroups: standard treatment (n=29), PRP therapy (6 injections for 28 day course, n=19), Quercetin (40 mg 3 times a day for 28 days, n=26) and PRP+Quercetin (n=24) groups.

RESULTS

Results: Standard therapy of SaR increases gNOS by 278.38% and arginase activity increases by 222.73%. PRP therapy increases gNOS by 211.43% and arginase by 540.91%. Quercetin elevates gNOS by 108.33% and arginase by 250%. PRP therapy and quercetin increases gNOS by 146.15% and arginase by 536.36%.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: The use of standard therapy of SaR and addition of PRP therapy, quercetin and their combination effectively restores the production of nitric oxide and the arginase activity in the nasal mucosa.

Molecular mechanisms and potential applications of chondroitin sulphate in managing post-traumatic osteoarthritis

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), a disorder of the synovium, subchondral bone, and cartilage that affects the entire joint, constitutes approximately 12% of all cases of symptomatic osteoarthritis. This review summarizes the pathogenetic mechanisms that underlie the positive influence of chondroitin sulphates (CSs) on PTOA as means of preventive and therapeutic treatment. Mechanisms of PTOA development involve chondrocytes undergoing various forms of cell death (apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis, ferroptosis and/or necrosis). Chondroitin sulphates are a class of glycosaminoglycans that improve the structure and function of cartilage and subchondral bone, which is associated with their ability to decrease the activation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK, and up-regulate Nrf2. Standardized small fish extract (SSFE) is an example of the drugs that can attenuate NF-κB-mediated systemic inflammation, potentially helping to reduce joint inflammation and cartilage degradation, improve joint function, and alleviate pain and disability in patients with these conditions.

Antioxidant and Wound Healing Bioactive Potential of Extracts Obtained from Bark and Needles of Softwood Species

Interest in the extraction of phytochemical bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols from biomass, has recently increased due to their valuable biological potential as natural sources of antioxidants, which could be used in a wide range of applications, from foods and pharmaceuticals to green polymers and bio-based materials. The present research study aimed to provide a comprehensive chemical characterization of the phytochemical composition of forest biomass (bark and needles) of softwood species (Picea abies L., H. Karst., and Abies alba Mill.) and to investigate their in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities to assess their potential in treating and healing infected chronic wounds. The DPPH radical-scavenging method and P-LD were used for a mechanistic explanation of the biomolecular effects of the investigated bioactive compounds. (+)-Catechin, epicatechin, rutin, myricetin, 4 hydroxybenzoic and p-cumaric acids, kaempherol, and apigenin were the main quantified polyphenols in coniferous biomass (in quantities around 100 µg/g). Also, numerous phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, terpenes, lignans, secoiridoids, and indanes with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antihemolytic, and anti-carcinogenic potential were identified. The Abies alba needle extract was more toxic to microbial strains than the eukaryotic cells that provide its active wound healing principles. In this context, developing industrial upscaling strategies is imperative for the long-term success of biorefineries and incorporating them as part of a circular bio-economy.