Natural almond skin reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease

Industrial-produced lemon nanovesicles ameliorate experimental colitis-associated damages in rats via the activation of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses and microbiota modification

Plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) have recently emerged as natural delivery systems of biofunctional compounds toward mammalian cells. Considering their already described composition, anti-inflammatory properties, stability, and low toxicity, PDNVs offer a promising path for developing new preventive strategies for several inflammatory diseases, among which the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, we explore the protective effects of industrially produced lemon vesicles (iLNVs) in a rat model of IBD. Characterization of iLNVs reveals the presence of small particles less than 200 nm in size and a profile of bioactive compounds enriched in flavonoids and organic acids with known beneficial properties. In vitro studies on human macrophages confirm the safety and anti-inflammatory effects of iLNVs, as evidenced by the reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased levels of anti-inflammatory markers. As evidenced by in vivo experiments, pre-treatment with iLNVs significantly alleviates symptoms and histological features in 2,4 dinitrobenzensulfuric acid (DNBS)-induced colitis in rats. Molecular pathway analysis reveals modulation of NF-κB and Nrf2, indicating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Finally, iLNVs affects gut microbiota composition, improving the consistent colitis-related alterations. Overall, we demonstrated the protective role of industrially produced lemon nanovesicles against colitis and emphasized their potential in managing IBD through multifaceted mechanisms.

Subcritical Water Extraction for Valorisation of Almond Skin from Almond Industrial Processing

Almond skin (AS) is an agro-industrial residue from almond processing that has a high potential for valorisation. In this study, subcritical water extraction (SWE) was applied at two temperatures (160 and 180 °C) to obtain phenolic-rich extracts (water-soluble fraction) and cellulose fibres (insoluble fraction) from AS. The extraction conditions affected the composition and properties of both valorised fractions. The dry extracts obtained at 180 °C were richer in phenolics (161 vs. 101 mg GAE. g-1 defatted almond skin (DAS)), with greater antioxidant potential (1.063 vs. 1.490 mg DAS.mg-1 DPPH) and showed greater antibacterial effect (lower MIC values) against L. innocua (34 vs. 90 mg·mL-1) and E. coli (48 vs. 90 mg·mL-1) than those obtained at 160 °C, despite the lower total solid yield (21 vs. 29%) obtained in the SWE process. The purification of cellulose from the SWE residues, using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), revealed that AS is not a good source of cellulose material since the bleached fractions showed low yields (20-21%) and low cellulose purity (40-50%), even after four bleaching cycles (1 h) at pH 12 and 8% H2O2. Nevertheless, the application of a green, scalable, and toxic solvent-free SWE process was highly useful for obtaining AS bioactive extracts for different food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical applications.

Exploring the efficacy of herbal medicinal products as oral therapy for inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a collection of idiopathic diseases characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Patients diagnosed with IBD often experience necessitate long-term pharmacological interventions. Among the multitude of administration routes available for treating IBD, oral administration has gained significant popularity owing to its convenience and widespread utilization. In recent years, there has been extensive evaluation of the efficacy of orally administered herbal medicinal products and their extracts as a means of treating IBD. Consequently, substantial evidence has emerged, supporting their effectiveness in IBD treatment. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of recent studies evaluating the effects of herbal medicinal products in the treatment of IBD. We delved into the regulatory role of these products in modulating immunity and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Additionally, we examined their impact on antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory properties, and the modulation of intestinal flora. By exploring these aspects, we aimed to emphasize the significant advantages associated with the use of oral herbal medicinal products in the treatment of IBD. Of particular note, this review introduced the concept of herbal plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs) as the active ingredient in herbal medicinal products for the treatment of IBD. The inclusion of PDENs offers distinct advantages, including enhanced tissue penetration and improved physical and chemical stability. These unique attributes not only demonstrate the potential of PDENs but also pave the way for the modernization of herbal medicinal products in IBD treatment.

Antioxidant Activity of a Sicilian Almond Skin Extract Using In Vitro and In Vivo Models

Almond skins are known for their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, which are mainly due to the presence of polyphenols. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of almond skin extract (ASE) obtained from the Sicilian cultivar "Fascionello" and to evaluate the possible mechanisms of action using an in vitro model of human monocytic U937 cells as well as an in vivo model of carrageenan (CAR)-induced paw edema. The in vitro studies demonstrated that pretreatment with ASE inhibited the formation of ROS and apoptosis. The in vivo studies showed that ASE restored the CAR-induced tissue changes; restored the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione; and decreased neutrophil infiltration, lipid peroxidation, and the release of proinflammatory mediators. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ASE could be associated with the inhibition of the pro-inflammatory nuclear NF-κB and the activation of the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant pathways. In conclusion, almond skin could reduce the levels of inflammation and oxidative stress and could be beneficial in the treatment of several disorders.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin transdermal gel in an IL-10 knockout mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases are a group of inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Their prevalence is still low in Brazil, but the incidence is increasing annually. A variety of compounds present in Curcuma longa L., particularly curcumin, have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and aid in the prevention of associated diseases. This study aimed to assess the effect of curcumin transdermal gel on oxidative stress and intestinal inflammation in IL-10 knockout mice. Female mice were divided into four groups: a control group (C0) treated with vehicle and three experimental groups treated with transdermal gel containing 50 (C50), 75 (C75), and 100 (C100) mg curcumin kg-1 body weight. Colon malondialdehyde concentrations were lower in C50 and C75 groups. C100 treatment led to reduced catalase activity in the small intestine, whereas C50, C75, and C100 treatments resulted in decreased catalase activity in the colon. In contrast, superoxide dismutase activity increased in the small intestine of C50 and C75 mice and decreased in the colon of C50, C75, and C100 mice. Glutathione S-transferase activity increased in the small intestine and decreased in the colon of C75 animals. These findings suggest that curcumin transdermal gel exerts a protective effect against oxidative stress.

Almond By-Products: Valorization for Sustainability and Competitiveness of the Industry

The search for waste minimization and the valorization of by-products are key practices for good management and improved sustainability in the food industry. The production of almonds generates a large amount of waste, most of which is not used. Until now, almonds have been used for their high nutritional value as food, especially almond meat. The other remaining parts (skin, shell, hulls, etc.) are still little explored, even though they have been used as fuel by burning or as livestock feed. However, interest in these by-products has been increasing as they possess beneficial properties (caused mainly by polyphenols and unsaturated fatty acids) and can be used as new ingredients for the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, it is important to explore almond’s valorization of by-products for the development of new added-value products that would contribute to the reduction of environmental impact and an improvement in the sustainability and competitiveness of the almond industry.

Polyphenols from food by-products: An alternative or complementary therapy to IBD conventional treatments

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are illnesses characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation and microbial dysbiosis that have emerged as a public health challenge worldwide. It comprises two main conditions: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Currently, conventional therapy to treat IBD are not free from side effects, such as liver and kidney toxicity, drug resistance, and allergic reactions. In view of this, there is growing research for alternative and complementary therapies that, in addition to acting in the prevention or the control of the disease, do not compromise the quality of life and health of individuals. In this sense, a growing body of evidence has confirmed the benefits of natural phenolic compounds in intestinal health. Phenolic compounds or polyphenols are molecules widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom (flowers, vegetables, leaves, and fruits), including plant materials remaining of the handling and food industrial processing, referred to in the scientific literature as by-products, food waste, or bagasse. Since by-products are low-cost, abundant, easily accessible, safe, and rich in bioactive compounds, it becomes an exciting option to extract, concentrate or isolate phenolic compounds to be posteriorly applied in the therapeutic approach of IBD. In this article, we have reviewed the main phenolic compounds present in various plants and by-products that have shown beneficial and/or promising effects in experimental pre-clinical, clinical, and in vitro research with IBD. In addition, we have mentioned and suggested several plants and by-products originated and produced in Latin America that could be part of future research as good sources of specific phenolic compounds to be applied in the prevention and development of alternative treatments for IBD. This review may offer a valuable reference for studies related to IBD administering phenolic compounds from natural, cheap, and easily accessible raw and undervalued materials.

A food pyramid, based on a review of the emerging literature, for subjects with inflammatory bowel disease

Emerging literature suggests that diet plays an important modulatory role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through the management of inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the evidence collected up till now regarding optimum diet therapy for IBD and to design a food pyramid for these patients. The pyramid shows that carbohydrates should be consumed every day (3 portions), together with tolerated fruits and vegetables (5 portions), yogurt (125ml), and extra virgin olive oil; weekly, fish (4 portions), white meat (3 portions), eggs (3 portions), pureed legumes (2 portions), seasoned cheeses (2 portions), and red or processed meats (once a week). At the top of the pyramid, there are two pennants: the red one means that subjects with IBD need some personalized supplementation and the black one means that there are some foods that are banned. The food pyramid makes it easier for patients to decide what they should eat.

The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Anacardium occidentale L. Cashew Nuts in a Mouse Model of Colitis

Background: Anacardium occidentale L. is a tropical plant used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The goal of the present work was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant potential of oral administration of cashew nuts (from Anacardium occidentale L.) in a mouse model of colitis. Methods: Induction of colitis was performed by intrarectally injection of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS). Cashew nuts were administered daily orally (100 mg/kg) in DNBS-injected mice. Results: Four days after DNBS, histological and macroscopic colon alterations as well as marked clinical signs and increased cytokine production were observed. Neutrophil infiltration, measured by myeloperoxidase (MPO) positive immunostaining, was correlated with up-regulation of adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and P-selectin in colons. Oxidative stress was detected with increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, nitrotyrosine, and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) positive staining in inflamed colons. Oral treatment with cashew nuts reduced histological, macroscopic damage, neutrophil infiltration, pro-inflammatory cytokines and MDA levels, as well as nitrotyrosine, PARP and ICAM-1, and P-selectin expressions. Colon inflammation could be related to nuclear factor (NF)-kB pathway activation and reduced manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) antioxidant activity. Cashew nuts administration inhibited NF-kB and increased MnSOD antioxidant expressions. Conclusions: The results suggested that oral assumption of cashew nuts may be beneficial for the management of colitis.

Modulation of NLRP3 Inflammasome through Formyl Peptide Receptor 1 (Fpr-1) Pathway as a New Therapeutic Target in Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome

Chronic rejection is the major leading cause of morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), a fibroproliferative disorder of the small airways, is the main manifestation of chronic lung allograft rejection. We investigated, using transgenic mice, the mechanisms through which the deficiency of IL-1β/IL-18, Casp-1, or Fpr-1 genes could be protective in an experimental model of BOS, induced in mice by allogeneic heterotopic tracheal transplantation. Fpr-1 KO mice showed a marked reduction in histological markers of BOS and of mast cell numbers compared to other groups. Molecular analyses indicated that the absence of the Fpr-1 gene was able to decrease NF-κB nuclear translocation and modulate NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in a more significant way compared to other groups. Additionally, Fpr-1 gene deletion caused a reduction in resistance to the apoptosis, assessed by the TUNEL assay. Immunohistochemical analyses indicated changes in nitrotyrosine, PARP, VEGF, and TGF-β expression associated with the pathology, which were reduced in the absence of the Fpr1 gene more so than by the deletion of IL-1β/IL-18 and Casp-1. We underline the importance of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the pathogenic role of Fpr-1 in experimental models of BOS, which is the result of the modulation of immune cell recruitment together with the modulation of local cellular activation, suggesting this gene as a new target in the control of the pathologic features of BOS.

Effect of Almond Supplementation on Non-Esterified Fatty Acid Values and Exercise Performance

Several studies have investigated the effects of fat intake before exercise on subsequent substrate oxidation and exercise performance. While some studies have reported that unsaturated fatty acid supplementation slightly increases fat oxidation, the changes have not been reflected in the maximum oxygen uptake or in other performance and physiological parameters. We selected almonds as a fatty acid (FA) source for acute supplementation and investigated their effect on non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) values and exercise performance. Five physically active male subjects (age 32.9 ± 12.7 years, height 178.5 ± 3.3 cm, and weight 81.3 ± 9.7 kg) were randomly assigned to take an almond or placebo supplement 2 h before participating in two cycling resistance training sessions separated by an interval of 7-10 days. Their performance was evaluated with a maximal incremental test until exhaustion. Blood samples collected before, during, and after testing were biochemically analysed. The results indicated a NEFA value average increase of 0.09 mg·dL-1 (95% CI: 0.05-0.14; p < 0.001) after active supplement intake and enhanced performance (5389 ± 1795 W vs. placebo 4470 ± 2053 W, p = 0.043) after almond supplementation compared to the placebo. The almond supplementation did not cause gastrointestinal disturbances. Our study suggests that acute almond supplementation 2 h before exercise can improve performance in endurance exercise in trained subjects.

Protective effects of flavonoid composition rich P. subpeltata Ortega. on indomethacin induced experimental ulcerative colitis in rat models of inflammatory bowel diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polyphenolics (flavonoid and phenolic) rich plants are the effective source for the treatment of acute and chronic degenerative diseases including inflammatory bowel disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to examine the effects of polyphenolics rich leaf acetone extract of P. subpeltata against the indomethacin induced ulcerative colitis in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two consecutive days administration of indomethacin produced chronic inflammation in GIT tissues of rats. Further, the plant extract 200 and 400 mg/kg treatment were continued until 11th day. Then hematological, enzymatic antioxidants, MPO and histological evaluations were analyzed. Moreover, the extracts were treated with RAW267.4 cells for the cytotoxicity, NO and TNF-α analysis.

RESULTS

The obtained results revealed, that higher dose of the plant extract dropped neutrophil infiltration followed by inhibiting the MPO enzyme levels and controls the enzymatic antioxidants such as SOD, CAT, GSH and LPO. RAW cells study also proved that the plant extract effectively inhibits NO and TNF-α production.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, these results suggest that P. subpeltata extract may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of IBD although further clinical research is still warranted.

Polyphenols in Almond Skins after Blanching Modulate Plasma Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Healthy Humans

Almond skins are a waste byproduct of blanched almond production. Polyphenols extracted from almond skins possess antioxidant activities in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we examined the pharmacokinetic profile of almond skin polyphenols (ASP) and their effect on measures of oxidative stress. In a randomized crossover trial, seven adults consumed two acute ASP doses (225 mg (low, L) or 450 mg (high, H) total phenols) in skim milk or milk alone. Plasma flavonoids, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), oxidized GSH (GSSG), and resistance of low- density lipoprotein (LDL) to oxidation were measured over 10 h. The H dose increased catechin and naringenin in plasma, with maximum concentrations of 44.3 and 19.3 ng/mL, respectively. The GSH/GSSG ratio at 3 h after the H doses was 212% of the baseline value, as compared to 82% after milk (p = 0.003). Both ASP doses upregulated GPx activity by 26-35% from the baseline at 15, 30, 45, and 120 min after consumption. The in vitro addition of α-tocopherol extended the lag time of LDL oxidation at 3 h after L and H consumption by 144.7% and 165.2% of that at 0 h compared to no change after milk (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, ASP are bioavailable and modulate GSH status, GPx activity, and the resistance of LDL to oxidation.

Evaluation of the chemical and nutritional characteristics of almonds (Prunus dulcis (Mill). D.A. Webb) as influenced by harvest time and cultivar

BACKGROUND

Several workers have studied the effect of harvest time on chemical and nutritional composition of almonds, but the results are partly conflicting, probably due to differences in the cultivars considered and to different agronomic and climatic conditions in the growing areas. In this paper, the influence of harvest time and cultivar on the chemical and nutritional composition of almonds (Prunus dulcis (Mill). D.A. Webb) were evaluated. Ten cultivars were considered, grown in the same orchard and subjected to the same agronomical regime. Almonds were collected at two different harvest times: (i) when the fruits were unripe, but already edible, and showed green and moist hull; and (ii) when the fruits were ripe, with dry brown hull. The analyses of proximate composition, fatty acid profile, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were carried out.

RESULTS

Lipid content increased (P < 0.001) during ripening, while both protein and carbohydrate content decreased (P < 0.01). Fatty acid composition showed a not univocal behavior during ripening and was highly influenced by cultivar. Total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity varied among cultivars but increased during ripening with the exception of cv Marcona. The 'Genco' and 'Francolì' cultivars were found to be phenolic rich.

CONCLUSION

Harvest time and cultivar significantly influenced the chemical and nutritional composition of almonds. Genotype strongly influenced fatty acid composition and total phenolic compounds. The changes of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity suggest that the synthesis of antioxidants also occurs in the last stage of ripening. Unripe almonds, a valuable niche product, showed interesting nutritional value. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Heat and Pressure Treatments on Almond Protein Stability and Change in Immunoreactivity after Simulated Human Digestion

Almond is consumed worldwide and renowned as a valuable healthy food. Despite this, it is also a potent source of allergenic proteins that can trigger several mild to life-threatening immunoreactions. Food processing proved to alter biochemical characteristics of proteins, thus affecting the respective allergenicity. In this paper, we investigated the effect of autoclaving, preceded or not by a hydration step, on the biochemical and immunological properties of almond proteins. Any variation in the stability and immunoreactivity of almond proteins extracted from the treated materials were evaluated by total protein quantification, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and protein profiling by electrophoresis-based separation (SDS-PAGE). The sole autoclaving applied was found to weakly affect almond protein stability, despite what was observed when hydration preceded autoclaving, which resulted in a loss of approximately 70% of total protein content compared to untreated samples, and a remarkable reduction of the final immunoreactivity. The final SDS-PAGE protein pattern recorded for hydrated and autoclaved almonds disclosed significant changes. In addition, the same samples were further submitted to human-simulated gastro-intestinal (GI) digestion to evaluate potential changes induced by these processing methods on allergen digestibility. Digestion products were identified by High Pressure Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS/MS) analysis followed by software-based data mining, and complementary information was provided by analyzing the proteolytic fragments lower than 6 kDa in size. The autoclave-based treatment was found not to alter the allergen digestibility, whereas an increased susceptibility to proteolytic action of digestive enzymes was observed in almonds subjected to autoclaving of prehydrated almond kernels. Finally, the residual immunoreactivity of the GI-resistant peptides was in-silico investigated by bioinformatic tools. Results obtained confirm that by adopting both approaches, no epitopes associated with known allergens survived, thus demonstrating the potential effectiveness of these treatments to reduce almond allergenicity.

Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of bruceine D: a new approach for anti-ulcerative colitis

Background

Bruceine D (BD) is a major bioactive component isolated from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Brucea javanica which has been widely utilized to treat dysentery (also known as ulcerative colitis [UC]).

Methods

To improve the water solubility and absolute bioavailability of BD, we developed a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) composing of MCT (oil), Solutol HS-15 (surfactant), propylene glycol (co-surfactant) and BD. The physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetics of BD-SNEDDS were characterized, and its anti-UC activity and potential mechanism were evaluated in TNBS-induced UC rat model.

Results

The prepared nanoemulsion has multiple beneficial aspects including small mean droplet size, low polydispersity index (PDI), high zeta potential (ZP) and excellent stability. Transmission electron microscopy showed that nanoemulsion droplets contained uniform shape and size of globules. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that BD-SNEDDS exhibited enhanced pharmacokinetic parameters as compared with BD-suspension. Moreover, BD-SNEDDS significantly restored the colon length and body weight, reduced disease activity index (DAI) and colon pathology, decreased histological scores, diminished oxidative stress, and suppressed TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6, NF-κB p65 protein expressions in TNBS-induced UC rat model.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that BD-SNEDDS exhibited highly improved oral bioavailability and advanced anti-UC efficacy. In conclusion, our current results provided a foundation for further research of BD-SNEDDS as a potential complementary therapeutic agent for UC treatment.

Therapeutic potential of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-induced colitis in mice by targeting IL-1β and IL-18

Interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18 belong to the IL-1 family of ligands, and their receptors are members of the IL-1 receptor family. Both cytokines drive an extensive range of pro-inflammatory networks in many cell types using common signal transduction cascades. Anyway, differences in signaling pathways exist. With this aim in mind, we investigated by using transgenic mice the mechanisms through the simultaneous deficiency of both IL-1β and IL-18 could be more protective compared to blocking the single cytokine IL-1β or IL-18 during colitis. Colitis was provoked in mice by instillation of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) in the colon. The results indicated that single knockout (KO) mice of IL-1β or IL-18, and double KO mice of both IL-1β and IL-18 were hyporesponsive to DNBS-induced colitis compared to wild type (WT) mice, in which double KO were less sensitive than single KO mice. Moreover, treatment with Anakinra (IL-1R antagonist) also ameliorated colitis, in views of macroscopic and histological alteration, infiltration of neutrophils or Th1 cells, oxidative and nitrosative stress. Anakinra more significantly reduced cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and nuclear factor (NF-κB) levels as well as IKB-α degradation compared to blocking IL-18. On the contrary, the absence of IL-18 reduced p-ERK and p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) in a more significant way compared to blocking IL-1β. Thus, the double KO increased the protective effects against colon inflammation maybe because different converging inflammatory pathways are being inhibited. In conclusion, the blocking of both IL-1β and IL-18 function may be advantageous in the treatment of IBD or inflammatory diseases.

The Antioxidant Activity of Pistachios Reduces Cardiac Tissue Injury of Acute Ischemia/Reperfusion (I/R) in Diabetic Streptozotocin (STZ)-Induced Hyperglycaemic Rats

Diabetes mellitus is an important risk factor for the development of heart pathology. Myocardial infarction is the cause of death occurring after prolonged ischemia of the coronary arteries. Restoration of blood flow is the first intervention against heart attack, although the process of restoring blood flow to the ischemic myocardium could cause additional injury. This phenomenon, termed myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI-R) injury, is characterized by the formation of oxygen radicals. Pistachios have significant glucose- and insulin-lowering effects and can improve the inflammatory contest by downregulating both the expression and the circulating levels of several metabolic risk markers. The monocyte/macrophage cell line J774 was used to assess the extent of protection by natural raw (NP) and roasted salted (RP) pistachios against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. Moreover, antioxidant activity of NP and RP was assessed in an in vivo model of paw edema in rats induced by carrageenan (CAR) injection in the paw. This study evaluates the antioxidant properties of pistachios on the inflammatory process associated with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) in diabetic rats. Rats were pre-treated with either NP or RP pistachios (30 mg/kg) 18 h prior to the experimental procedure.

Results: Here, we demonstrated that treatment with NP reduced myocardial tissue injury, neutrophil infiltration, adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, P-selectin) expression, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) production, nitrotyrosine and PAR formation, NF-κB expression and apoptosis (Bax, Bcl-2) activation. This data clearly showes modulation of the inflammatory process, associated with MI-R injury, following administration of pistachios.

Valorization Challenges to Almond Residues: Phytochemical Composition and Functional Application

Almond is characterized by its high nutritional value; although information reported so far mainly concerns edible kernel. Even though the nutritional and commercial relevance of the almond is restricted to almond meat; to date; increasing attention has been paid to other parts of this fruit (skin; shell; and hull); considered by-products that are scarcely characterized and exploited regarding their properties as valuable sources of bioactive compounds (mainly represented by phenolic acids and flavonoids). This lack of proper valorization procedures entails the continuation of the application of traditional procedures to almond residues that nowadays are mainly addressed to livestock feed and energy production. In this sense; data available on the physicochemical and phytochemical composition of almond meat and its related residues suggest promising applications; and allow one to envisage new uses as functional ingredients towards value-added foods and feeds; as well as a source of bioactive phytochemicals to be included in cosmetic formulations. This objective has prompted investigators working in the field to evaluate their functional properties and biological activity. This approach has provided interesting information concerning the capacity of polyphenolic extracts of almond by-products to prevent degenerative diseases linked to oxidative stress and inflammation in human tissues and cells; in the frame of diverse pathophysiological situations. Hence; this review deals with gathering data available in the scientific literature on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of almond by-products as well as on their bioactivity so as to promote their functional application.

Association of vegetarian diet with inflammatory biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

OBJECTIVE

Vegetarian diets contain various anti-inflammatory components. We aimed to investigate the effects of vegetarianism on inflammatory biomarkers when compared with omnivores.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

SETTING

Literature search was conducted in Science Direct, Proquest, MEDLINE and Google Scholar up to June 2016. Summary estimates and corresponding 95 % CI were derived via the DerSimonian and Laird method using random effects, subgroup analyses were run to find the source of heterogeneity and a fixed-effect model examined between-subgroup heterogeneity.

SUBJECTS

Studies were included if they evaluated effects of any type of vegetarianism compared with omnivores on circulating levels of inflammatory biomarkers. No restriction was made in terms of language or the date of study publications.

RESULTS

Eighteen articles were included. Pooled effect size showed no difference in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in vegetarians v. omnivores (Hedges' g=-0·15; 95 % CI -0·35, 0·05), with high heterogeneity (I 2=75·6 %, P<0·01). A subgroup analysis by minimum duration of vegetarianism showed that a minimum duration of 2 years vegetarianism was associated with lower hs-CRP levels v. omnivores (Hedges' g=-0·29; 95 % CI -0·59, 0·01), with moderate heterogeneity (I 2=68·9 %, P<0·01). No significant effect was found in studies using a minimum duration of 6 months of vegetarianism, with low heterogeneity. Vegetarianism was associated with increased IL-6 concentrations (0·21 pg/ml; 95 % CI 0·18, 0·25), with no heterogeneity (I 2=0·0 %, P=0·60).

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis provides evidence that vegetarianism is associated with lower serum concentrations of hs-CRP when individuals follow a vegetarian diet for at least 2 years. Further research is necessary to draw appropriate conclusions regarding potential associations between vegetarianism and IL-6 levels. A vegetarian diet might be a useful approach to manage inflammaging in the long term.

The Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential of Pistachios (Pistacia vera L.) In Vitro and In Vivo

Several reports have demonstrated the effectiveness of pistachio against oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we investigate if polyphenols extracts from natural raw shelled pistachios (NP) or roasted salted pistachio (RP) kernels have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties at lower doses than reported previously, in both in vitro and in vivo models. The monocyte/macrophage cell line J774 was used to assess the extent of protection by NP and RP pistachios against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. Moreover, antioxidant activity of NP and RP was assessed in an in vivo model of paw edema in rats induced by carrageenan (CAR) injection in the paw. Results from the in vitro study demonstrated that pre-treatment with NP (0.01, 0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL) and RP (0.01 and 0.1 mg/mL) exerted a significant protection against LPS induced inflammation. Western blot analysis showed NP reduced the degradation of IκB-α, although not significantly, whereas both NP and RP decreased the TNF-α and IL-1β production in a dose-dependent way. A significant reduction of CAR-induced histological paw damage, neutrophil infiltration and nitrotyrosine formation was observed in the rats treated with NP. These data demonstrated that, at lower doses, polyphenols present in pistachios possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This may contribute toward a better understanding of the beneficial health effects associated with consumption of pistachios.

Almond Skin Extracts Abrogate HSV-1 Replication by Blocking Virus Binding to the Cell

The aim of the present research was to determine the effect of almond skin extracts on herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) replication. Drug-resistant strains of HSV frequently develop following therapeutic treatment. Therefore, the discovery of novel anti-HSV drugs deserves great effort. Here, we tested both natural (NS) and blanched (BS) polyphenols-rich almond skin extracts against HSV-1. HPLC analysis showed that the prevalent compounds in NS and BS extracts contributing to their antioxidant activity were quercetin, epicatechin and catechin. Results of cell viability indicated that NS and BS extracts were not toxic to cultured Vero cells. Furthermore, NS extracts were more potent inhibitors of HSV-1 than BS extracts, and this trend was in agreement with different concentrations of flavonoids. The plaque forming assay, Western blot and real-time PCR were used to demonstrate that NS extracts were able to block the production of infectious HSV-1 particles. In addition, the viral binding assay demonstrated that NS extracts inhibited HSV-1 adsorption to Vero cells. Our conclusion is that natural products from almond skin extracts are an extraordinary source of antiviral agents and provide a novel treatment against HSV-1 infections.

Gegen Qinlian decoction alleviates experimental colitis via suppressing TLR4/NF-κB signaling and enhancing antioxidant effect

BACKGROUND

Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQ), a Chinese medicinal herb decoction, has been widely used as efficient medicine for the treatment of acute colitis in clinics, but underlying molecular mechanisms have not been fully clarified.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

Inflammation and oxidative stress have been reported to constitute a crucial part in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Hence, this study was designed to investigate the antiinflammatory activity and antioxidative effect of GQ.

STUDY DESIGN

Mice induced by 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and macrophage RAW264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used in this study.

METHODS

Ethanol extracts of GQ were orally administered for 1 week on the dosage of 0.3, 1.5, or 7.5g/kg/day and berberine (BBR, 100mg/kg/d) was selected as a positive group in the animal experiments. In vitro, GQ (25, 50, 100µg/ml) or BBR (20µM) co-cultured with RAW264.7 for 2h prior to LPS stimulation.

RESULTS

The results showed that GQ oral administration alleviated the severity of colitis notably. It reduced toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression and NF-κB activation in mucosa, which was accompanied with down regulation of several inflammatory cytokines in the colon, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and IL-4. Furthermore, GQ oral administration attenuated the oxidative stress in the colon of UC mice, evidenced by the decrease of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and the elevation of glutathione (GSH) content. In parallel with the vivo experiment results, cell research indicated GQ dramatically reduced the production of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and nitric oxide (NO), as well as that of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon stimulation of LPS.

CONCLUSION

Together, our present study indicates that inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling and enhancement of antioxidant effect might be the potential mechanisms for the therapeutic effect of GQ against UC.

Food Matrix Effects of Polyphenol Bioaccessibility from Almond Skin during Simulated Human Digestion

The goal of the present study was to quantify the rate and extent of polyphenols released in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) from natural (NS) and blanched (BS) almond skins. A dynamic gastric model of digestion which provides a realistic simulation of the human stomach was used. In order to establish the effect of a food matrix on polyphenols bioaccessibility, NS and BS were either digested in water (WT) or incorporated into home-made biscuits (HB), crisp-bread (CB) and full-fat milk (FM). Phenolic acids were the most bioaccessible class (68.5% release from NS and 64.7% from BS). WT increased the release of flavan-3-ols (p < 0.05) and flavonols (p < 0.05) from NS after gastric plus duodenal digestion, whereas CB and HB were better vehicles for BS. FM lowered the % recovery of polyphenols, the free total phenols and the antioxidant status in the digestion medium, indicating that phenolic compounds could bind protein present in the food matrix. The release of bioactives from almond skins could explain the beneficial effects associated with almond consumption.

Mucosal Interactions between Genetics, Diet, and Microbiome in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Numerous reviews have discussed gut microbiota composition changes during inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), particularly Crohn’s disease (CD). However, most studies address the observed effects by focusing on studying the univariate connection between disease and dietary-induced alterations to gut microbiota composition. The possibility that these effects may reflect a number of other interconnected (i.e., pantropic) mechanisms, activated in parallel, particularly concerning various bacterial metabolites, is in the process of being elucidated. Progress seems, however, hampered by various difficult-to-study factors interacting at the mucosal level. Here, we highlight some of such factors that merit consideration, namely: (1) the contribution of host genetics and diet in altering gut microbiome, and in turn, the crosstalk among secondary metabolic pathways; (2) the interdependence between the amount of dietary fat, the fatty acid composition, the effects of timing and route of administration on gut microbiota community, and the impact of microbiota-derived fatty acids; (3) the effect of diet on bile acid composition, and the modulator role of bile acids on the gut microbiota; (4) the impact of endogenous and exogenous intestinal micronutrients and metabolites; and (5) the need to consider food associated toxins and chemicals, which can introduce confounding immune modulating elements (e.g., antioxidant and phytochemicals in oils and proteins). These concepts, which are not mutually exclusive, are herein illustrated paying special emphasis on physiologically inter-related processes.

Dimethyl Fumarate Reduces Inflammatory Responses in Experimental Colitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fumaric acid esters have been proven to be effective for the systemic treatment of psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. We aimed to develop a new treatment for colitis.

METHODS

We investigated the effect of dimethylfumarate [DMF, 10-30-100mg/kg] on an experimental model of colitis induced by dinitrobenzene sulphuric acid [DNBS]. We also evaluated the therapeutic activity of 7 weeks' treatment with DMF [30mg/kg] on 9-week-old IL-10KO mice that spontaneously develop a T helper-1 [Th1]-dependent chronic enterocolitis after birth, that is fully established at 8-10 weeks of age. The mechanism of this pharmacological potential of DMF [10 μM] was investigated in colonic epithelial cell monolayers [Caco-2] exposed to H2O2. The barrier function was evaluated by the tight junction proteins.

RESULTS

The treatment with DMF significantly reduced the degree of haemorrhagic diarrhoea and weight loss caused by administration of DNBS. DMF [30 and 100mg/kg] also caused a substantial reduction in the degree of colon injury, in the rise in myeloperoxidase [MPO] activity, and in the increase in tumour necrosis factor [TNF]-α expression, as well as in the up-regulation of ICAM-1 caused by DNBS in the colon. Molecular studies demonstrated that DMF impaired NF-κB signalling via reduced p65 nuclear translocalisation. DMF induced a stronger antioxidant response as evidenced by a higher expression of Mn-superoxide dismutase. Moreover, DMF protected human intestinal epithelial cells against H2O2-induced barrier dysfunction, restoring ZO-1 occludin expression, via the HO-1 pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

DMF treatment reduces the degree of colitis caused by DNBS. We propose that DMF treatment may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

A review of the efficacy of dietary polyphenols in experimental models of inflammatory bowel diseases

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis presently have no cure and are treated with anti-inflammatory drugs or monoclonal antibodies targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines. A variety of rodent models have been used to model chronic and acute colitis. Dietary polyphenols in foods and botanicals are of considerable interest for prevention and treatment of colitis. Many dietary polyphenols have been utilized for prevention of colitis in rodent models. Berries, green tea polyphenols, curcumin, and stilbenes have been the most extensively tested polyphenols in rodent models of colitis. The majority of polyphenols tested have inhibited colitis in rodents, but increasing doses of EGCG and green tea, isoflavones, flaxseed, and α-mangostin have exacerbated colitis. Few studies have examined combination of polyphenols or other bioactives for inhibition of colitis. Translating polyphenol doses used in rodent models of colitis to human equivalent doses reveals that supplemental doses are most likely required to inhibit colitis from a single polyphenol treatment. The ability to translate polyphenol treatments in rodent models is likely to be limited by species differences in xenobiotic metabolism and microbiota. Given these limitations, data from polyphenols in rodent models suggests merit for pursuing additional clinical studies for prevention of colitis.

Urolithins, gut microbiota-derived metabolites of ellagitannins, inhibit LPS-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages

SCOPE

Ellagitannin-rich food products and medicinal plant materials were shown to have beneficial effects toward intestinal inflammation. Due to the questionable bioavailability of ellagitannins their gut microbiota metabolites-urolithins have come to be regarded as potential factors responsible for biological activities observed in vivo. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the three most abundant bioavailable ellagitannin gut microbiota metabolites-urolithins A, B, and C on inflammatory responses in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages, which are involved in the pathogenesis of intestine inflammation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Urolithins A, B, and C decreased NO production via inhibition of the iNOS protein and mRNA expression. They decreased the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 mRNA in LPS challenged RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. A clear inhibition of NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and p50 DNA-binding activity was associated with the observed anti-inflammatory activities of urolithins. Among the tested compounds urolithin A had the strongest anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory effects of urolithins at concentrations that are physiologically relevant for gut tissues (≥40 μM), as revealed in this study, support the data from in vivo studies showing the beneficial effects of ellagitannin-rich products toward intestinal inflammation.

Dietary supplementation with L-glutamate and L-aspartate alleviates oxidative stress in weaned piglets challenged with hydrogen peroxide

This study was to evaluate the protective roles of L-glutamate (Glu) and L-aspartate (Asp) in weaned piglets challenged with H2O2. Forty weaned piglets were assigned randomly into one of five groups (8 piglets/group): (1) control group (NC) in which pigs were fed a corn- and soybean meal-based diet and received intraperitoneal administration of saline; (2) H2O2 group (PC) in which pigs were fed the basal diet and received intraperitoneal administration of 10 % H2O2 (1 ml/kg body weight once on days 8 and repeated on day 11); (3) PC + Glu group (PG) in which pigs were fed the basal diet supplemented with 2.0 % Glu before intraperitoneal administration of 10 % H2O2; (4) PC + Asp group (PA) in which pigs were fed the basal diet supplemented with 1.0 % Asp before intraperitoneal administration of 10 % H2O2; (5) PC + Glu + Asp group (PGA) in which pigs were fed the basal diet supplemented with 2.0 % Glu plus 1.0 % Asp before intraperitoneal administration of 10 % H2O2. Measured parameters included daily feed intake (DFI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion rate (FCR), and serum anti-oxidative enzyme activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase-1), serum malondialdehyde and H2O2 concentrations, serum amino acid (AA) profiles, and intestinal expression of AA transporters. Dietary supplementation with Glu, Asp or their combination attenuated the decreases in DFI, ADG and feed efficiency, the increase in oxidative stress, the alterations of serum AA concentrations, and the changed expression of intestinal AA transporters in H2O2-challenged piglets. Thus, dietary supplementation with Glu or Asp alleviates growth suppression and oxidative stress, while restoring serum the amino acid pool in H2O2-challenged piglets.

Medicinal plants in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections

CONTEXT

Helicobacter pylori is a small, spiral, Gram-negative bacillus that plays a role in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases ranging from asymptomatic gastritis to gastric cancer. Schedule compliance, antibiotic drug resistance, and side-effects of triple or quadruple therapy have led to research for novel candidates from plants.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is to review the most potent medicinal plants of recently published literature with anti-H. pylori activity. For centuries, herbals have been used by traditional healers around the world to treat various gastrointestinal tract disorders such as dyspepsia, gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease. The mechanism of action by which these botanicals exert their therapeutic properties has not been completely and clearly elucidated. Anti-H. pylori properties may be one of the possible mechanisms by which gastroprotective herbs treat gastrointestinal tract disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Electronic databases such as PubMed, Google scholar, EBSCO, and local databases were explored for medicinal plants with anti-H. pylori properties between 1984 and 2013 using key words "medicinal plants" and "Helicobacter pylori" or "anti-Helicobacter pylori".

RESULTS

A total of 43 medicinal plant species belonging to 27 families including Amaryllidaceae, Anacardiaceae, Apiaceae, Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae, Asteraceae, Bignoniaceae, Clusiaceae, Chancapiedra, Combretaceae, Cyperaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Geraniaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Lythraceae, Menispermaceae, Myristicaceae, Myrtaceae, Oleaceae, Papaveraceae, Plumbaginaceae, Poaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, and Theaceae were studied as herbs with potent anti-H. pylori effects.

CONCLUSION

Traditional folk medicinal use of some of these plants to treat gastric infections is substantiated by the antibacterial activity of their extracts against H. pylori.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of bergamot juice extract (BJe) in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The beneficial properties of the flavonoid fraction of bergamot juice (BJe) have been raising interest and have been the subject of recent studies, considering the potentiality of its health promoting substances. Flavonoids have demonstrated radical-scavenging and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of BJe in mice subjected to experimental colitis.

METHODS

Colitis was induced in mice by intracolonic instillation of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS). BJe was administered daily orally (at 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg).

RESULTS

Four days after DNBS administration, colon nuclear factor NF-κB translocation and MAP kinase phospho-JNK activation were increased as well as cytokine production such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β. Neutrophil infiltration, by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, in the mucosa was associated with up-regulation of adhesion molecules (ICAM-1 and P-selectin). Immunohistochemistry for nitrotyrosine and poly ADP-ribose (PAR) also showed an intense staining in the inflamed colon. Treatment with BJe decreased the appearance of diarrhea and body weight loss. This was associated with a reduction in colonic MPO activity. BJe reduced nuclear NF-κB translocation, p-JNK activation, the pro-inflammatory cytokines release, the appearance of nitrotyrosine and PAR in the colon and reduced the up-regulation of ICAM-1 and P-selectin. In addition, colon inflammation was also associated with apoptotic damage. Treatment with BJe caused a decrease of pro-apoptotic Bax expression and an increase of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggested that administration of BJe induced, partly specified, anti-inflammatory mechanisms, which potentially may be beneficial for the treatment of IBD in humans.

Polyphenols from blueberries modulate inflammation cytokines in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages

Polyphenols including 3-glucoside/arabinoside/galactoside-based polymers of delphinidins, petunidins, peonidins, malvidins and cyanidins are one type of biological macromolecules, which are extraordinarily rich in blueberries. Anti-inflammatory activity of blueberry polyphenols (BPPs) was investigated by using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced RAW264.7 macrophages. The results showed that BPPs suppressed the gene expression of IL-1β (interleukin-1β), IL-6 and IL-12p35. The inhibition effect on IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA was most obvious at the concentration of 10-200μg/mL BPPs. But the inhibition effect on IL-12p35 mRNA was increased with the increasing concentration of BPPs. When fixed at 100μg/mL BPPs, the most significant inhibition on IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12p35 mRNA expression was detected at 12-48h. In conclusion, BPPs exhibit anti-inflammation activity by mediating and modulating the balances in pro-inflammatory cytokines of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12.

The effect of almond consumption on elements of endurance exercise performance in trained athletes

Background

Almonds are a healthy tree nut food with high nutrient density. Their consumption has been shown to ameliorate oxidative stress, inflammation, etc. The objective of the study was to examine the effect of almonds on elements of endurance exercise performance in trained athletes.

Methods

A 10-week crossover, placebo controlled study was conducted. Eight trained male cyclists and two triathletes were randomly assigned to consume 75 g/d whole almonds (ALM) or isocaloric cookies (COK) with equal subject number. They consumed the assigned food for 4 wks and then the alternate food for another 4 wks. They underwent 3 performance tests including 125-min steady status exercise (SS) and 20-min time trial (TT) on an indoor stationary trainer at the start of the study (BL) and at the end of each intervention phase. Venous blood was collected in the morning prior to the performance test for biochemical measurements and finger blood during the test for glucose determination. Carbohydrate and fat oxidation, energy expenditure, and oxygen use were calculated using respiratory gas analysis.

Results

ALM increased cycling distance during TT by 1.7 km as compared BL (21.9 vs. 20.2 km, P = 0.053) and COK increased 0.6 km (20.8 vs. 20.2 km, P > 0.05). ALM, but not COK, led to higher CHO and lower fat oxidation and less oxygen consumption during TT than BL (P < 0.05), whereas there was no significant difference in heart rate among BL, ALM and COK. ALM maintained higher blood glucose level after TT than COK (P < 0.05). ALM had higher vitamin E and haemoglobin and lower serum free fatty acid (P < 0.05), slightly elevated serum arginine and nitric oxide and plasma insulin (P > 0.05) than BL, and a higher total antioxidant capacity than COK (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Whole almonds improved cycling distance and the elements related to endurance performance more than isocaloric cookies in trained athletes as some nutrients in almonds may contribute to CHO reservation and utilization and effective oxygen utilization. The results suggest that almonds can be incorporated into diets of those who undertake exercise training for performance improvement.

Antibacterial activities of almond skins on cagA-positive and-negative clinical isolates of Helicobacter pylori

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is known to be a gastric pathogen of humans. Eradication regimens for H. pylori infection have some side effects, compliance problems, relapses, and antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the need for alternative therapies for H. pylori infections is of special interest. We have previously shown that polyphenols from almond skins are active against a range of food-borne pathogens. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effects of natural almond skins before and after simulated human digestion and the pure flavonoid compounds epicatechin, naringenin and protocatechuic acid against H. pylori.

RESULTS

H. pylori strains were isolated from gastric biopsy samples following standard microbiology procedures. Also, cagA and vacA genes were identified using PCR. Susceptibility studies on 34 strains of H. pylori, including two reference strains (ATCC 43504, ATCC 49503), were performed by the standard agar dilution method.

CONCLUSIONS

Polyphenols from almond skins were effective in vitro against H. pylori, irrespective of genotype status and could therefore be used in combination with antibiotics as a novel strategy for antibiotic resistance.

Characterization of ellagitannins, gallotannins, and bound proanthocyanidins from California almond (Prunus dulcis) varieties

Extractable and bound proanthocyanidins and hydrolyzable tannins were characterized in Nonpareil, Carmel, and Butte almond varieties from California, with n = 3 samples/variety. Bound proanthocyanidins were recovered from extracted defatted almond residue by hydrolysis with 4 N sodium hydroxide and represented 3-21% of the total proanthocyanidin content among varieties. The bound proanthocyanidins were recovered primarily as monomers and dimers. In contrast, acid hydrolysis of extracted almond residue did not yield bound proanthocyanidins. Hydrolyzable tannins were characterized in aqueous acetone extracts of defatted almond using two-dimensional TLC and further quantitated by HPLC following acid hydrolysis. Almond hydrolyzable tannin content was 54.7 ± 2.3 mg ellagic acid and 27.4 ± 7.3 mg gallic acid per 100 g almond among varieties. The tannin contents of Nonpareil, Carmel, and Butte almond varieties were not significantly different. Thus, bound proanthocyanidins and hydrolyzable tannins significantly contribute to almond polyphenol content.

Review of natural products actions on cytokines in inflammatory bowel disease

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the effects that natural products have on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to provide insight into the relationship between these natural products and cytokines modulation. More than 100 studies from the past 10 years were reviewed herein on the therapeutic approaches for treating IBD. The natural products having anti-IBD actions included phytochemicals, antioxidants, microorganisms, dietary fibers, and lipids. The literature revealed that many of these natural products exert anti-IBD activity by altering cytokine production. Specifically, phytochemicals such as polyphenols or flavonoids are the most abundant, naturally occurring anti-IBD substances. The anti-IBD effects of lipids were primarily related to the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The anti-IBD effects of phytochemicals were associated with modulating the levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and myeloperoxide. The anti-IBD effects of dietary fiber were mainly mediated via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, TNF-α, nitric oxide, and IL-2, whereas the anti-IBD effects of lactic acid bacteria were reported to influence interferon-γ, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, and nuclear factor-κ light-chain enhancer of activated B cells. These results suggest that the anti-IBD effects exhibited by natural products are mainly caused by their ability to modulate cytokine production. However, the exact mechanism of action of natural products for IBD therapy is still unclear. Thus, future research is needed to examine the effect of these natural products on IBD and to determine which factors are most strongly correlated with reducing IBD or controlling the symptoms of IBD.