Phytochemicals: guardians of our health

Enhancing temozolomide antiglioma response by inhibiting O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase with selected phytochemicals: in silico and in vitro approach

The aim of our study was to investigate the potential of rutin, catechin, dehydrozingerone, naringenin, and quercetin, both alone and in combination with temozolomide, to inhibit the expression of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in glioma cells. MGMT has been shown to be a major cause of temozolomide resistance in glioma. Our study used both in silico and in vitro methods to assess the inhibitory activity of these phytochemicals on MGMT, with the goal of identifying the most effective combination of compounds for reducing temozolomide resistance. After conducting an initial in silico screening of natural compounds against MGMT protein, five phytochemicals were chosen based on their high docking scores and favorable binding energies. From the molecular docking and simulation studies, we found that quercetin showed a good inhibitory effect of MGMT with its high binding affinity. C6 glioma cells showed increased cytotoxicity when treated with the temozolomide and quercetin combination. It was understood from the isobologram and combination index plot that the drug combination showed a synergistic effect at the lowest dose. Quercetin when combined with temozolomide significantly decreased the MGMT levels in C6 cells in comparison with the other drugs as estimated by ELISA. The percentage of apoptotic cells increased significantly in the temozolomide-quercetin group indicating the potency of quercetin in decreasing the resistance of temozolomide as confirmed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Our experiment hence suggests that temozolomide resistance can be reduced by combining the drug with quercetin which will serve as an effective therapeutic target for glioblastoma treatment.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-023-03821-7.

Hierarchically Templated Synthesis of 3D-Printed Crosslinked Cyclodextrins for Lycopene Harvesting

Plants produce a wide range of bioactive phytochemicals, such as antioxidants and vitamins, which play crucial roles in aging prevention, inflammation reduction, and reducing the risk of cancer. Selectively harvesting these phytochemicals, such as lycopene, from tomatoes through the adsorption method is cost-effective and energy efficient. In this work, a templated synthesis of 3D-printed crosslinked cyclodextrin polymers featuring nanotubular structures for highly selective lycopene harvesting is reported. Polypseudorotaxanes formed by triethoxysilane-based telechelic polyethylene glycols and α-cyclodextrins (α-CDs) are designed as the template to (1) synthetically access urethane-based nanotubular structures at the molecular level, and (2) construct 3D-printed architectures with designed macroscale voids. The polypseudorotaxane hydrogels showed good rheological properties for direct ink writing, and the 3D-printed hydrogels were converted to the desired α-CD polymer network through a three-step postprinting transformation. The obtained urethane-crosslinked α-CD monoliths possess nanotubular structures and 3D-printed voids. They selectively adsorb lycopene from raw tomato juice, protecting lycopene from photo- or thermo-degradations. This work highlights the hierarchically templated synthesis approach in developing functional 3D-printing materials by connecting the bottom-up molecular assembly and synthesis with the top-down 3D architecture control and fabrication.

Thermal Stability and Antioxidant Activity of Bioactive Compounds in Bread Enriched with Bee Pollen and Bee Bread

Bee pollen (BP) and bee bread (BB) are natural food sources containing a wide variety of bioactive compounds, complementing their rich nutritional composition. These bee products are being explored to empower functional foods, with the term functionality being dependent on the bioactive compounds added to the food matrix. However, there is not enough evidence of the effect of heat on these compounds during food processing and production and how it impacts their biological activity. Here, we enriched traditional bread by adding BP and BB at different proportions of 1 to 5% and tested the thermal stability of their bioactive compounds through several spectroscopic and chromatographic analyses. Adding bee pollen and bee bread to bread resulted in a 4 and 5-fold increase in total phenolic content, respectively. While not all the 38 phenolic and phenolamide compounds identified in the raw BP and BB were detected in the processed bread, phenolamides were found to be more resilient to baking and heat treatment than flavonoids. Still, the enriched bread's antioxidant activity improved with the addition of BP and BB. Therefore, incorporating bee products into heat-treated products could enhance the functionality of staple foods and increase the accessibility to these natural products.

Dietary Flavonoids as Modulators of Lipid Metabolism in Poultry

Flavonoids, naturally-occurring compounds with multiple phenolic structures, are the most widely distributed phytochemicals in the plant kingdom, and are mainly found in vegetables, fruits, grains, roots, herbs, and tea and red wine products. Flavonoids have health-promoting effects and are indispensable compounds in nutritional and pharmaceutical (i.e., nutraceutical) applications. Among the demonstrated bioactive effects of flavonoids are anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial in a range of research models. Through dietary formulation strategies, numerous flavonoids provide the ability to support bird health while improving the nutritional quality of poultry meat and eggs by changing the profile of fatty acids and reducing cholesterol content. A number of such compounds have been shown to inhibit adipogenesis, and promote lipolysis and apoptosis in adipose tissue cells, and thereby have the potential to affect fat accretion in poultry at various ages and stages of production. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to animal health by preventing free radical damage in tissues and ameliorating inflammation in adipose tissue, which are concerns in broiler breeders and laying hens. In this review, we summarize the progress in understanding the effects of dietary flavonoids on lipid metabolism and fat deposition in poultry, and discuss the associated physiological mechanisms.

Chemical composition and bioactive compounds of cashew (Anacardium occidentale) apple juice and bagasse from Colombian varieties

Cashew nut production generates large amounts of cashew apple as residue. In Colombia, cashew cultivation is increasing together with the concerns on residue management. The objective of this study was to provide the first chemical, physical and thermal decomposition characterization of cashew apple from Colombian varieties harvested in Vichada, Colombia. This characterization was focused to identify the important bioactive and natural compounds that can be further valorized in the formulation of food, nutraceuticals, and pharmacological products. The results obtained in this study are helpful to portray the cashew apple as a potential by-product due to its renewable nature and valuable composition, instead of seeing it just as an agricultural residue. For that, cashew apples of Regional 8315 and Mapiria varieties were studied. The natural juice (cashew apple juice) that was extracted from the cashew apples and the remanent solids (cashew apple bagasse) were separately analyzed. The HPLC analytical technique was used to determine the concentration of bioactive compounds, structural carbohydrates, and soluble sugars that constitute this biomass. Spectrophotometric techniques were used to determine the concentration of tannins, carotenoids, and total polyphenols. Mineral content and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS assays) were determined in the biomass. Also, the thermal decomposition under an inert atmosphere or pyrolysis was performed on cashew apple bagasse. The varieties of cashew apple studied in this work showed similar content of bioactive compounds, total phenolic content, and structural carbohydrates. However, the Mapiria variety showed values slightly higher than the Regional 8315. Regarding cashew apple juice, it is rich in tannins and ascorbic acid with values of 191 mg/100 mL and 70 mg/100 mL, respectively, for Mapiria variety. Additionally, the principal reservoir of bioactive compounds and constitutive carbohydrates was the cashew apple bagasse. About 50 wt.% of it was composed of cellulose and hemicellulose. Also, in the bagasse, the ascorbic acid content was in a range of 180–200 mg/100 g, which is higher than other fruits and vegetables. Moreover, alkaloids were identified in cashew apples. The maximum value of antioxidant activity (DPPH assay: 405 TEs/g) was observed in the bagasse of Mapiria variety. The bagasse thermal decomposition started around 150 °C when the structural carbohydrates and other constitutive substances started to degrade. After thermogravimetric analysis, a remanent of 20% of the initial weight suggested the formation of a rich-carbon solid, which could correspond to biochar. Therefore, the cashew apple harvested in Vichada is a valuable reservoir of a wide range of biomolecules that potentially could be valorized into energy, foods, and pharmacologic applications. Nevertheless, future work is necessary to describe the complex compounds of this residual biomass that are still unknown.

Probiotics and Phytochemicals: Role on Gut Microbiota and Efficacy on Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Functional Dyspepsia, and Functional Constipation

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), such as irritable bowel syndrome, functional constipation, and functional dyspepsia, have had a high prevalence over the past few years. Recent evidence suggests that functional foods and bioactive compounds, such as probiotics and phytochemicals, may have a positive effect in treating the symptoms of the above diseases. In this systematic review study, 32 published studies were selected with the use of comprehensive scientific databases, according to PRISMA guidelines, with emphasis on recent interventional studies that reflect the effect of probiotics and selected phytochemicals on the improvement of FGID symptoms. The bioactive compounds in the selected studies were administered to patients either in capsule form or in enriched food products (yogurt, juice, etc.). According to the results, there is a correlation between the consumption of probiotics and phytochemicals, such as polyphenols, and the relief of symptoms in selected gastrointestinal disorders. Enriching foods that are regularly consumed by the population, such as fruit juices, yogurt, and cheese, with ingredients that may have a positive effect on gastrointestinal disorders, could be a possible novel goal for the management of these diseases. However, further evidence is required for the role of probiotics and phytochemicals in FGIDs to be fully understood.

Kumquat fruit and leaves extracted with different solvents: phenolic content and antioxidant activity

Introduction. Kumquat is a good source of vitamin C, as well as phenolic and flavonoid substances. In this study, we used various solvents to obtain extracts from fresh and lyophilized dried fruits and leaves of kumquat plant, as well as six mutants, to compare their total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities. Study objects and methods. The total phenolic and flavonoid content was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and the colorimetric method, respectively. The antioxidant capacities of the extracts were determined by commonly used antioxidant tests, such as the DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and metal chelating activity. Results and discussion. The total phenolic content of the extracts was in the range of 3705–86 329 mg GAE/g extract. The total amount of flavonoid substance ranged from 5556 to 632 222 mg QUE/g extract. The highest free radical scavenging activity was observed in the kumquat leaves. We also found that the activity of dried fruit was lower than that of fresh fruit. According to our results, the differences in the phenolic contents of the studied plants affected their antioxidant properties. We determined that the extracts with a high phenolic content showed high antioxidant activity. No significant difference was detected between the rootstock kumquat type and its mutants. Finally, we found no chelating activity in the extracts obtained from fresh and lyophilized dried fruits. Conclusion. Kumquat fruit and its leaves can be considered as functional foods due to phenolic compounds, which are able to neutralize free radicals.

Soil Health and Nutrient Density: Beyond Organic vs. Conventional Farming

Controversy has long surrounded the question of nutritional differences between crops grown organically or using now-conventional methods, with studies dating back to the 1940s showing that farming methods can affect the nutrient density of crops. More recent studies have shown how reliance on tillage and synthetic nitrogen fertilizers influence soil life, and thereby soil health, in ways that can reduce mineral micronutrient uptake by and phytochemical production in crops. While organic farming tends to enhance soil health and conventional practices degrade it, relying on tillage for weed control on both organic and conventional farms degrades soil organic matter and can disrupt soil life in ways that reduce crop mineral uptake and phytochemical production. Conversely, microbial inoculants and compost and mulch that build soil organic matter can increase crop micronutrient and phytochemical content on both conventional and organic farms. Hence, agronomic effects on nutritional profiles do not fall out simply along the conventional vs. organic distinction, making the effects of farming practices on soil health a better lens for assessing their influence on nutrient density. A review of previous studies and meta-studies finds little evidence for significant differences in crop macronutrient levels between organic and conventional farming practices, as well as substantial evidence for the influence of different cultivars and farming practices on micronutrient concentrations. More consistent differences between organic and conventional crops include that conventional crops contain greater pesticide levels, whereas organically grown crops contain higher levels of phytochemicals shown to exhibit health-protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, part of the long-running controversy over nutritional differences between organic and conventional crops appears to arise from different definitions of what constitutes a nutrient—the conventional definition of dietary constituents necessary for growth and survival, or a broader one that also encompasses compounds beneficial for maintenance of health and prevention of chronic disease. For assessing the effects of farming practices on nutrient density soil health adds a much needed dimension—the provisioning of micronutrients and phytochemicals that support human health.

Citrus limonoids induce apoptosis and inhibit the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells

In our recent study, we demonstrated that certain limonoids isolated from citrus seeds induced apoptosis in human pancreatic (Panc-28) cells. In this study, limonin, nomilin and limonexic acid (LNA) were investigated for understanding the possible mode of cytotoxicity in cultured pancreatic cancer (Panc-28) cells. All three limonoids inhibited Panc-28 cell proliferation, with IC50 values less than 50 μM after 72 h of incubation. The induction of apoptosis was confirmed through the cleavage of caspase-3, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and expression of apoptosis-related proteins. The Bax/Bcl2 expression ratio was increased up to 11-fold in cells pre-treated with 60 μM limonoids for 48 h. Apart from this, the limonoids also induced the expression of p21, and exhibited anti-inflammatory activity through decreasing the expression of cox-2, NF-κB and IL-6. Based on these results, we were interested in understanding the possible mode of inhibition by LNA, which exhibited the highest activity. The treatment of Panc-28 cells resulted in dose- and time-dependent induction of apoptosis-inducible proteins. In addition, treatment with 60 μM LNA resulted in the activation of Akt-associated signals to induce apoptosis, and the same was confirmed by the effects of the compounds on pAkt, p53, VEGF and caspase proteins. The results of this study demonstrated the cytotoxicity of limonoids to human pancreatic cancer cells through the modulation of genes involved in proliferation and survival.

Anticancer activities of phenolic compounds from Moringa oleifera leaves: in vitro and in silico mechanistic study

Background

Moringa oleifera is a common vegetable in many countries since ancient times, possesses numerous phenolic compounds having a wide array of biological activities. It possesses anticancer activity that can be used to develop new drugs for treatment of various types of cancers. The current study was conducted to evaluate the composition of phenolic compounds and in vitro and in silico anticancer activities of M. oleifera leaves extracts. The leaves of M. oleifera were subjected to extraction for solvent fraction using n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, and aqueous solvents. The solvent fractions were tested for anticancer activity in vitro against Hela cancer cell line and screened for phenolic compounds through reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The molecular docking approach was employed to check binding conformations of phytochemicals against the target protein.

Result

The result revealed that all the solvent fractions possess in vitro anticancer activity against Hela cancer cell line. The n-hexane fraction showed a 50% reduction in Hela cancer cell viability at 416 μg mL−1 as compared to control. The extracts of solvent-fraction contained 10 phenolic compounds viz. quercetin, gallic acid, sinapic acid, vanillic acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy benzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, m-coumaric acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy cinnamic acid, caffeic acid, and syringic acid. Molecular docking studies revealed that the ligands bind within the active site of target protein have good binding energy values.

Conclusion

This study shows that M. oleifera leaves may have the potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and improving human health in addition to food ingredient innovations. Based on in vitro and in silico results, the phytochemicals from M. oleifera leaves can be used as leading drugs to treat cancer.

Graphical abstract

Physicochemical, nutritional and functional properties of Cucurbita moschata

Cucurbita moschata is widely planted in most parts of the world, and is rich in carotenoids, vitamins, dietary fiber, minerals, and phenolic compounds. It also has important medicinal value. Some related research has proven that Cucurbita moschata has the potential ability to induce anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, and anticancer effects. At the same time, it has attracted more attention in the medical field. These nutrients and bioactive compounds in Cucurbita moschata have important effects on human health. In order to make better use of this crop, it still needs further study. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to summarize the physicochemical properties and nutritional components of Cucurbita moschata, and to provide a reference for further research on the benefits of on human health.

Maternal dietary pattern in early pregnancy is associated with gestational weight gain and hyperglycemia: A cohort study in South West of Iran

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Maternal dietary pattern could influence on fetal health outcome. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between maternal dietary pattern and Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) in each trimester and hyperglycemia amongst Arab pregnant women in south-west of Iran.

METHODS

This longitudinally study was performed in urban healthcare centers of south-west of Iran. Among 610 candidates, 488 pregnant women were included in the final analysis. Consequently, two diet patterns were determined by principal component analysis and the association between GWG and blood glucose level was determined using quartile regression. Using generalized linear model, a model was adjusted for pre-pregnancy BMI, maternal age, income, and education levels.

RESULTS

Two dietary patterns were identified as follows: "high fat -fast food" and "vegetable-fruits & protein" pattern. High adherence to "high fat -fast food" pattern was associated with higher GWG and hyperglycemia in 3rd trimester (adjusted β: 0.029 95%CI 0.012; 0.049 P = 0.001) (adjusted β: 0.029 95%CI 0.012; 0.049 P = 0.001) respectively. High tendency to "vegetable-fruits & protein" pattern was inversely associated with development of hyperglycemia in 3rd trimester. Higher SES level was associated with low adherence to "high fat-fast food" pattern.

CONCLUSION

Findings of the study revealed that, higher adherence to high -fat diet is related to excessive GWG and hyperglycemia in late pregnancy.

Therapeutic Potential of β-Caryophyllene: A Dietary Cannabinoid in Diabetes and Associated Complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a metabolic disorder is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide across developed as well as developing nations. Hyperglycemia is the core feature of the type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), following insulin deficiency and impaired insulin secretion or sensitivity leads insulin resistance (IR), respectively. Genetic and environmental factors attributed to the pathogenesis of DM and various therapeutic strategies are available for the prevention and treatment of T2DM. Among the numerous therapeutic approaches, the health effects of dietary/nutraceutical approach due to the presence of bioactive constituents, popularly termed phytochemicals are receiving special interest for pharmacological effects and therapeutic benefits. The phytochemicals classes, in particular sesquiterpenes received attention because of potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperglycemic effects and health benefits mediating modulation of enzymes, receptors, and signaling pathways deranged in DM and its complications. One of the terpene compounds, β-caryophyllene (BCP), received enormous attention because of its abundant occurrence, non-psychoactive nature, and dietary availability through consumption of edible plants including spices. BCP exhibit selective full agonism on cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), an important component of endocannabinoid system, and plays a role in glucose and lipid metabolism and represents the newest drug target for chronic inflammatory diseases. BCP also showed agonist action on peroxisome proliferated activated receptor subtypes, PPAR-α and PPAR-γ, the main target of currently used fibrates and imidazolidinones for dyslipidemia and IR, respectively. Many studies demonstrated its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, organoprotective, and antihyperglycemic properties. In the present review, the plausible therapeutic potential of BCP in diabetes and associated complications has been comprehensively elaborated based on experimental and a few clinical studies available. Further, the pharmacological and molecular mechanisms of BCP in diabetes and its complications have been represented using synoptic tables and schemes. Given the safe status, abundant natural occurrence, oral bioavailability, dietary use and pleiotropic properties modulating receptors and enzymes, BCP appears as a promising molecule for diabetes and its complications.

Organosulfur Compounds: A Review of Their Anti-inflammatory Effects in Human Health

Phytonutrients are widely recognized for providing protective human health benefits. Among the phytonutrients, epidemiological and experimental studies show that dietary organosulfur compounds (OSC) play a significant role in preventing various human pathological progressions, including chronic inflammation, by decreasing inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin (PG)E₂, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-17, which are all typical hallmarks of inflammation. Evidence supports OSC in reducing the expression of these markers, thereby attenuating chronic inflammatory processes. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a key regulating factor during inflammation, and novel evidence shows that OSC downregulates this transcriptional factor, thus contributing to the anti-inflammatory response. In vitro and in vivo studies show that inflammation is mechanistically linked with acute and chronic pathological conditions including cancer, diabetes, obesity, neural dysfunction, etc. Furthermore, a considerable number of experiments have demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory properties of OSC occur in a dose-dependent manner. These experiments also highlight indirect mechanisms as well as potent co-functions for protective roles as antioxidants, and in providing chemoprotection and neuroprotection. In this brief review, we provided an overview of the anti-inflammatory effects of OSC and elucidated probable mechanisms that are associated with inflammation and chronic disorders.

Diet quality of vegetarian diets compared with nonvegetarian diets: a systematic review

Objective

Vegetarian diets are consistently associated with improved health outcomes, and higher diet quality may contribute to improved health outcomes. This systematic review aims to qualitatively compare the a priori diet quality of vegetarian and nonvegetarian diets.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, 2 online databases (Web of Science and PubMed) were searched for English language studies comparing diet quality among vegetarian and nonvegetarian adults using an a priori diet quality index. Two reviewers assessed study eligibility. Comparisons were made between total and component (when available) diet quality scores among the 12 studies meeting inclusion criteria.

Conclusions

Lacto-ovo vegetarians or vegans had higher overall diet quality (4.5-16.4 points higher on the Healthy Eating Index 2010 [HEI-2010]) compared with nonvegetarians in 9 of 12 studies. Higher HEI-2010 scores for vegetarians were driven by closer adherence to recommendations for total fruit, whole grains, seafood and plant protein, and sodium. However, nonvegetarians had closer adherence to recommendations for refined grains and total protein foods. Higher diet quality in vegetarian diets may partially explain improvements in health outcomes compared with nonvegetarians; however, more research controlling for known confounders like health consciousness is needed.

The risk of urinary tract infection in vegetarians and non-vegetarians: a prospective study

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused principally by ascending Escherichia coli infection via an intestine-stool-urethra route. Recent studies found that the strains of E. coli causing UTIs, called extra-intestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC), were distinct from the intestinal pathogenic strains and normal commensal strains. Further analysis found the meat including poultry and pork is the major reservoir for ExPECs. Vegetarians avoid meat and should theoretically have less exposure to ExPEC. However, no study thus far has examined whether vegetarian diets reduce the risk of UTI. Our aim was to examine the association between vegetarian diet and UTI risk in a Taiwanese Buddhist population. We prospectively followed 9724 Buddhists free of UTI from 2005 to 2014. During the 10-year follow-up, 661 incident UTI cases were confirmed. Diet was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire. Cox regression was used to evaluate the prospective association between a vegetarian diet on risk of UTI while adjusting for age, sex, educational level, alcohol-drinking, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and disease conditions predisposing to UTIs. Overall, vegetarian diet was associated with 16% lower hazards (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71-0.99). In subgroup analysis, the protective association between vegetarian diet and UTI is observed mainly in the female (HR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.99), never smokers (HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.95), and for uncomplicated UTI (HR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.68-0.98).

Sulforaphane Protects Cells against Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Inflammation in Murine Macrophages

Inflammation is an essential part for the general or innate immune defenses to defend against tissue damage and accelerate the curing process by providing protection against pathogens. Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural isothiocyanate that has potential properties against inflammation, along with other protective functions. The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanism of its protective effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in Raw 264.7 macrophages. Here, we compared LPS-challenged macrophages with or without SFN pretreatment. Macrophages were pre-incubated for 6 h with a wide range of concentrations of SFN (0 to 50 µM), and then treated with LPS for 24 h. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration and gene expression of different inflammatory mediators, i.e., interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-1β, were measured. SFN neither directly reacted with cytokines, nor with NO. To understand the mechanisms, we performed analyses of the expression of regulatory enzyme inducible nitic oxide synthase (iNOS), the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and its enzyme heme-oxygenase (HO)-1. Our results revealed that LPS increased significantly the expression of inflammatory cytokines and concentration of NO in non-treated cells. SFN was able to prevent the expression of NO and cytokines through regulating inflammatory enzyme iNOS and activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signal transduction pathway.

Structure–Activity relationship studies of two dietary flavonoids and their Nitric Oxide Synthase inhibition activity by spectroscopic and quantum/classical computational techniques

The Nitric Oxide Synthase inhibitory activity of two dietary phytocompounds naringenin and quercetin that belong to the family of flavonoids was studied by spectroscopic and computational methods. The determining role played by the global reactivity parameters that were calculated using spectroscopic and computational methods were correlated with the Nitric Oxide Synthase inhibitory activity by a Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) study. The inter and intramolecular charge–transfer interactions responsible for the biological activity of naringenin and quercetin were studied using Natural Bond Orbital Analysis. The reactive sites of the title compounds were studied using their molecular electrostatic map. The likelihood of naringenin and quercetin to be a small drug molecule was determined by Lipinski’s rule. The molecular dynamics and docking studies were carried out to test the energetic and structural favorability of the inhibition of Nitric Oxide Synthase by small drug molecules naringenin and quercetin. Experimental cell culture-based in vitro assays were done to test theoretical predictions. A QSAR study revealed that for Nitric Oxide Synthase inhibitory activity to be better, the compounds belonging to the family of flavonoids ought to have a more negative ionization energy and chemical softness while bandgap and electrophilicity index ought to be more positive.

Mechanistic role of plant-based bitter principles and bitterness prediction for natural product studies I: Database and methods

This chapter discusses the rationale behind the bitter sensation elicited by chemical compounds, focusing on natural products. Emphasis has been placed on a brief presentation of BitterDB (the database of bitter compounds), along with available methods for the prediction of bitterness in compounds. The fundamental basis for explaining bitterness has been provided, based on the structural features of human bitter taste receptors and have been used to shed light on the mechanistic role of a few out of the 25 known human taste receptors to provide the foundation for understanding how bitter compounds interact with their receptors. Some case studies of ligand-based prediction models based on 2D fingerprints and 3D pharmacophores, along with machine learning methods have been provided. The chapter closes with an attempt to establish the relationship between bitterness and toxicity.

From Desert to Medicine: A Review of Camel Genomics and Therapeutic Products

Camels have an important role in the lives of human beings, especially in arid regions, due to their multipurpose role and unique ability to adapt to harsh conditions. In spite of its enormous economic, cultural, and biological importance, the camel genome has not been widely studied. The size of camel genome is roughly 2.38 GB, containing over 20,000 genes. The unusual genetic makeup of the camel is the main reason behind its ability to survive under extreme environmental conditions. The camel genome harbors several unique variations which are being investigated for the treatment of several disorders. Various natural products from camels have also been tested and prescribed as adjunct therapy to control the progression of ailments. Interestingly, the camel employs unique immunological and molecular mechanisms against pathogenic agents and pathological conditions. Here, we broadly review camel classification, distribution and breed as well as recent progress in the determination of the camel genome, its size, genetic distribution, response to various physiological conditions, immunogenetics and the medicinal potential of camel gene products.

Bioactive glycoalkaloides isolated from Solanum melongena fruit peels with potential anticancer properties against hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is progressively increasing tumor with lack of accurate prognosis and inadequate systemic treatment approaches. Solanum sp. (such as Solanum melongena) is a folk herb which is reported to possess anticancer properties. In a continuity for our interest in pursuing the anticancer activity of compounds isolated from the fruit peels of Solanum melongena, the HPLC profiling and ESI-MS assessment for the methanolic extract evidenced the presence of bioactive glycoalkaloids (solasonine, solasodine and solamargine). These glycoalkaloids were isolated, purified and proved to possess in vitro cytotoxicity against human liver cancer cell lines (Huh7 and HepG2). Herein, we investigated the potential mechanism of action of these compounds using DNA content flow-cytometry and apoptosis/necrosis differential anaylsis using annexin-V/FITC staining. Solasonine, solasodine and solamargine inducd significant antiproliferative effect against liver cancer cells (Huh7 and HepG2) which was attributed to cell cycle arrest at S-phase. Solamargine, solasodine and solasonine induced significant apoptosis in Huh7 cells. Only solamargine-induced cell cycle arrest, was reflected as apoptotic cell killing effect against HepG2 cells. In conclusion, glycoalkaloids derived from Solanum melongena and particularly, solamargine are promising antiproliferative agents with potential anticancer effects.

Raging the War Against Inflammation With Natural Products

Over the last few decade Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are the drugs of choice for treating numerous inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The NSAIDs produces anti-inflammatory activity via inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzyme, responsible for the conversation of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Likewise, cyclooxegenase-2 inhibitors (COX-2) selectively inhibit the COX-2 enzyme and produces significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-pyretic activity without producing COX-1 associated gastrointestinal and renal side effects. In last two decades numerous selective COX-2 inhibitors (COXIBs) have been developed and approved for various inflammatory conditions. However, data from clinical trials have suggested that the prolong use of COX-2 inhibitors are also associated with life threatening cardiovascular side effects including ischemic heart failure and myocardial infection. In these scenario secondary metabolites from natural product offers a great hope for the development of novel anti-inflammatory compounds. Although majority of the natural product based compounds exhibit more selectively toward COX-1. However, the data suggest that slight structural modification can be helpful in developing COX-2 selective secondary metabolites with comparative efficacy and limited side effects. This review is an effort to highlight the secondary metabolites from terrestrial and marine source with significant COX-2 and COX-2 mediated PGE2 inhibitory activity, since it is anticipated that isolates with ability to inhibit COX-2 mediated PGE2 production would be useful in suppressing the inflammation and its classical sign and symptoms. Moreover, this review has highlighted the potential lead compounds including berberine, kaurenoic acid, α-cyperone, curcumin, and zedoarondiol for further development with the help of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies and their current status.

Effects of Nonthermal Plasma Technology on Functional Food Components

Understanding the impact of nonthermal plasma (NTP) technology on key nutritional and functional food components is of paramount importance for the successful adoption of the technology by industry. NTP technology (NTPT) has demonstrated marked antimicrobial efficacies with good retention of important physical, chemical, sensory, and nutritional parameters for an array of food products. This paper presents the influence of NTPT on selected functional food components with a focus on low-molecular-weight bioactive compounds and vitamins. We discuss the mechanisms of bioactive compound alteration by plasma-reactive species and classify their influence on vitamins and their antioxidant capacities. The impact of NTP on specific bioactive compounds depends both on plasma properties and the food matrix. Induced changes are mainly associated with oxidative degradation and cleavage of double bonds in organic compounds. The effects reported to date are mainly time-dependent increases in the concentrations of polyphenols, vitamin C, or increases in antioxidant activity. Also, improvement in the extraction efficiency of polyphenols is observed. The review highlights future research needs regarding the complex mechanisms of interaction with plasma species. NTP is a novel technology that can both negatively and positively affect the functional components in food.

Functional Food and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Treatment: A Review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is now the leading cause of death globally and is a growing health concern. Lifestyle factors, including nutrition, play an important role in the etiology and treatment of CVD. Functional foods based on their basic nutritional functions can decrease the risk of many chronic diseases and have some physiological benefits. They contain physiologically active components either from plant or animal sources, marketed with the claim of their ability to reduce heart disease risk, focusing primarily on established risk factors, which are hyperlipidemia, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity/overweight, elevated lipoprotein A level, small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and elevated inflammatory marker levels. Functional foods are suspected to exert their cardioprotective effects mainly through blood lipid profile level and improve hypertension control, endothelial function, platelet aggregation, and antioxidant actions. Clinical and epidemiological observations indicate that vegetable and fruit fiber, nuts and seeds, sea foods, coffee, tea, and dark chocolate have cardioprotective potential in humans, as well whole-grain products containing intact grain kernels rich in fiber and trace nutrients. They are nutritionally more important because they contain phytoprotective substances that might work synergistically to reduce cardiovascular risk. This review will focus on the reciprocal interaction between functional foods and the potential link to cardiovascular health and the possible mechanisms of action.

Natural Compounds as Spider Repellents: Fact or Myth?

Although some spiders are globally invasive, found at high densities, and may be considered pests (particularly those that are toxic to humans), there are few pest management methods based on experimental data. 'Common wisdom' and advertisements on internet websites assert that a number of natural substances repel spiders. We tested whether the three substances cited most frequently (lemon oil, peppermint oil, and chestnut-fruits) effectively repelled female spiders or whether these were myths. We presented each of the putative repellents versus a control in a two-choice assay and tested responses of females of three invasive spider species in two different families: theridiids, Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae) and Steatoda grossa C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae) and the araneid, Araneus diadematus Clerck . Chestnuts (Araneae: Araneidae) and mint oil strongly repelled L. geometricus and A. diadematus. S. grossa was less sensitive to these chemicals but had a slight tendency to avoid chestnuts. However, lemon oil, the substance most likely to be cited as a repellent (over 1,000,000 hits on Google), had no effect on any of these spiders. We conclude that volatiles released by mint oil and chestnuts may be effective in deterring spider settlement in two different families of spiders, but lemon oil as a repellent is a myth.

Empirically Derived Dietary Patterns in UK Adults Are Associated with Sociodemographic Characteristics, Lifestyle, and Diet Quality

The aim of this study was to examine empirical dietary patterns in UK adults and their association with sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, self-reported nutrient intake, nutrient biomarkers, and the Nutrient-based Diet Quality Score (NDQS) using National Diet and Nutrition Survey data 2008–2012 (n = 2083; mean age 49 years; 43.3% male). Four patterns explained 13.6% of the total variance: ‘Snacks, fast food, fizzy drinks’ (SFFFD), ‘Fruit, vegetables, oily fish’ (FVOF), ‘Meat, potatoes, beer’ (MPB), and ‘Sugary foods, dairy’ (SFD). ‘SFFFD’ was associated positively with: being male; smoking; body mass index (BMI); urinary sodium; intake of non-milk extrinsic sugars (NMES), fat and starch; and negatively with: age; plasma carotenoids; and NDQS. ‘FVOF’ was associated positively with: being non-white; age; income; socioeconomic classification (National Statistics Socio-economic Classifications; NSSEC); plasma carotenoids; intake of non-starch polysaccharides and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It was negatively associated with: being male, smoking, BMI, urinary sodium, intake of saturated fat; and NMES and NDQS. Whilst the patterns explained only 13.6% of the total variance, they were associated with self-reported nutrient intake, biomarkers of nutrient intake, sociodemographic and lifestyle variables, and the NDQS. These findings provide support for dietary patterns analyses as a means of exploring dietary intake in the UK population to inform public health nutrition policy and guidance.

Potential anticancer role of colchicine-based derivatives: an overview

Colchicine, the main alkaloid of the poisonous plant meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale L.), is a classical drug used for the treatment of gout and familial Mediterranean fever. Although colchicine is not clinically used to treat cancer because of toxicity, it exerts antiproliferative effects through the inhibition of microtubule formation by blocking the cell cycle at the G2/M phase and triggering apoptosis. Colchicine can still be used as a lead compound for the generation of potential anticancer drugs. Thus, numerous analogues of colchicine have been synthesized in the hope of developing novel, useful drugs with more favourable pharmacological profiles. Several colchicine semisynthetics are less toxic than colchicine and research is being carried out on effective, less toxic colchicine semisynthetic formulations with potential drug-delivery strategies directly targeting multiple solid cancers. This review focuses on the anticancer role of some of colchicine-based derivatives and their therapeutic importance.

A novel microtubule depolymerizing colchicine analogue triggers apoptosis and autophagy in HCT-116 colon cancer cells

Colchicine is a tubulin-binding natural product isolated from Colchicum autumnale. Here we report the in vitro anticancer activity of C-ring modified semi-synthetic derivative of colchicine; N-[(7S)-1,2,3-trimethoxy-9-oxo-10-(4-phenyl-piperidin-1-yl)-5,6,7,9 tetrahydrobenzo[a]heptalen-7-yl]acetamide (4h) on colon cancer HCT-116 cell line. The compound 4h was screened for anti-proliferative activity against different human cancer cell lines and was found to exhibit higher cytotoxicity against colon cancer cell lines HCT-116 and Colo-205 with IC50 of 1 and 0.8 μM respectively. Cytotoxicity of the compound to the normal fR2 breast epithelial cells and normal HEK293 human embryonic kidney cells was evaluated in concentration and time-dependent manner to estimate its selectivity for cancer cells which showed much better selectivity than that of colchicine. Compound 4h induced cell death in HCT-116 cells by activating apoptosis and autophagy pathways. Autophagy inhibitor 3-MA blocked the production of LC3-II and reduced the cytotoxicity in response to 4h, but did not affect apoptosis, suggesting thereby that these two were independent events. Reactive oxygen species scavenger ascorbic acid pretreatment not only decreased the reactive oxygen species level but also reversed 4h induced cytotoxicity. Treatment with compound 4h depolymerized microtubules and the majority of cells arrested at the G2/M transition. Together, these data suggest that 4h has better selectivity and is a microtubule depolymerizer, which activates dual cell-death machineries, and thus, it could be a potential novel therapeutic agent in cancer therapy.

Bitter taste receptors: Extraoral roles in pathophysiology

Over the past decade tremendous progress has been made in understanding the functional role of bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) and bitter taste perception. This review will cover the recent advances made in identifying the role of T2Rs in pathophysiological states. T2Rs are widely expressed in various parts of human anatomy and have been shown to be involved in physiology of respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and endocrine system. Empirical evidence has shown T2Rs to be an integral component of antimicrobial immune responses in upper respiratory tract infections. The studies on human airway smooth muscle cells have shown that a potent bitter tastant induced bronchodilatory effects mediated by bitter taste receptors. Clinical data suggests a role for T2R38 polymorphism in predisposition of individuals to chronic rhinosinusitis. The role of genetic variation in T2Rs and its impact on disease susceptibility have been investigated in various other disease risk factors such as alcohol dependence, head and neck cancers. Preliminary reports have demonstrated differential expression of functional T2Rs in breast cancer cell lines. Studies on the role of T2Rs in pathophysiology of diseases including chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and cancer have been promising. However, research in this field is in its nascent stages, and more confirmatory studies on animal models and in clinical settings are required.

Oats-From Farm to Fork

Oats have a long history of use as human food and animal feed. From its origins in the Fertile Crescent, the oat has adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions and geographic regions. Its unique macro-, micro-, and phytonutrient composition, high nutritional value, and relatively low agricultural input requirements makes oats unique among cereal crops. The health benefits of the oats are becoming well established. While the connection between oat β-glucan fiber in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and controlling glycemia have been unequivocally established, other potential benefits including modulation of intestinal microbiota and inflammation continue to be explored. Advances in food technology are continuing to expand the diversity of oat-based foods, creating opportunities to deliver the health benefits of oats to a larger segment of the population.

Dietary Patterns during Pregnancy Are Associated with Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Maternal dietary patterns before and during pregnancy play important roles in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We aimed to identify dietary patterns during pregnancy that are associated with GDM risk in pregnant U.S. women. From a 24 h dietary recall of 253 pregnant women (16–41 years) included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2012, food items were aggregated into 28 food groups based on Food Patterns Equivalents Database. Three dietary patterns were identified by reduced rank regression with responses including prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), dietary fiber, and ratio of poly- and monounsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acid: “high refined grains, fats, oils and fruit juice”, “high nuts, seeds, fat and soybean; low milk and cheese”, and “high added sugar and organ meats; low fruits, vegetables and seafood”. GDM was diagnosed using fasting plasma glucose levels ≥5.1 mmol/L for gestation <24 weeks. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for GDM, after controlling for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, family poverty income ratio, marital status, prepregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, energy intake, physical activity, and log-transformed C-reactive protein (CRP). All statistical analyses accounted for the appropriate survey design and sample weights of the NHANES. Of 249 pregnant women, 34 pregnant women (14%) had GDM. Multivariable AOR (95% CIs) of GDM for comparisons between the highest vs. lowest tertiles were 4.9 (1.4–17.0) for “high refined grains, fats, oils and fruit juice” pattern, 7.5 (1.8–32.3) for “high nuts, seeds, fat and soybean; low milk and cheese” pattern, and 22.3 (3.9–127.4) for “high added sugar and organ meats; low fruits, vegetables and seafood” pattern after controlling for maternal sociodemographic variables, prepregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, energy intake and log-transformed CRP. These findings suggest that dietary patterns during pregnancy are associated with risk of GDM after controlling for potential confounders. The observed connection between a high consumption of refined grains, fat, added sugars and low intake of fruits and vegetables during pregnancy with higher odds for GDM, are consistent with general health benefits of healthy diets, but warrants further research to understand underlying pathophysiology of GDM associated with dietary behaviors during pregnancy.

Moringa oleifera as an Anti-Cancer Agent against Breast and Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines

In this study we investigated the anti-cancer effect of Moringa oleifera leaves, bark and seed extracts. When tested against MDA-MB-231 and HCT-8 cancer cell lines, the extracts of leaves and bark showed remarkable anti-cancer properties while surprisingly, seed extracts exhibited hardly any such properties. Cell survival was significantly low in both cells lines when treated with leaves and bark extracts. Furthermore, a striking reduction (about 70–90%) in colony formation as well as cell motility was observed upon treatment with leaves and bark. Additionally, apoptosis assay performed on these treated breast and colorectal cancer lines showed a remarkable increase in the number of apoptotic cells; with a 7 fold increase in MD-MB-231 to an increase of several fold in colorectal cancer cell lines. However, no significant apoptotic cells were detected upon seeds extract treatment. Moreover, the cell cycle distribution showed a G2/M enrichment (about 2–3 fold) indicating that these extracts effectively arrest the cell progression at the G2/M phase. The GC-MS analyses of these extracts revealed numerous known anti-cancer compounds, namely eugenol, isopropyl isothiocynate, D-allose, and hexadeconoic acid ethyl ester, all of which possess long chain hydrocarbons, sugar moiety and an aromatic ring. This suggests that the anti-cancer properties of Moringa oleifera could be attributed to the bioactive compounds present in the extracts from this plant. This is a novel study because no report has yet been cited on the effectiveness of Moringa extracts obtained in the locally grown environment as an anti-cancer agent against breast and colorectal cancers. Our study is the first of its kind to evaluate the anti-malignant properties of Moringa not only in leaves but also in bark. These findings suggest that both the leaf and bark extracts of Moringa collected from the Saudi Arabian region possess anti-cancer activity that can be used to develop new drugs for treatment of breast and colorectal cancers.

Tannins and extracts of fruit byproducts: antibacterial activity against foodborne bacteria and antioxidant capacity

The shelf life of fresh fish and meat transported over long distances could be extended by using plant-based extracts to control spoilage bacteria. The goals of the present study were to identify plant-based extracts that effectively suppress the main spoilage bacteria of chilled fish and lamb and to assess their antioxidant capacity. The phenolic compounds in wood-based tannins and extracts isolated from byproducts of the fruit processing industry were identified and/or quantified. The total phenol content, but not the flavonoid to total phenol ratio, was strongly associated with higher antibacterial activity against several fish and lamb spoilage bacteria in zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration assays as well as greater antioxidant capacity in the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical assay. The most promising compounds in both cases, and thus good candidates for antibacterial packaging or antioxidant dietary supplements, were mango seed extract and tannic acid containing mostly polygalloyl glucose type phenols.

Evaluation of Anticancer, Antioxidant, and Possible Anti-inflammatory Properties of Selected Medicinal Plants Used in Indian Traditional Medication

The present study was carried out to evaluate the anticancer, antioxidant, and possible anti-inflammatory properties of diverse medicinal plants frequently used in Indian traditional medication. The selected botanicals such as Soymida fembrifuga (Roxb.) A. Juss. (Miliaceae), Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers. (Menispermaceae), Lavandula bipinnata (L.) O. Ktze. (Lamiaceae), and Helicteres isora L. (Sterculiaceae) extracted in different solvents were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer and antioxidant activities. The results obtained indicate that H. isora has potent cytotoxic activity toward the selected cancer cells such as HeLa-B75 (34.21 ± 0.24%), HL-60 (30.25 ± 1.36%), HEP-3B (25.36 ± 1.78%), and PN-15 (29.21 ± 0.52%). Interestingly, the selected botanicals selectively inhibited cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) more than (COX-1), which are the key enzymes implicated in inflammation. COX-2 inhibition was observed to be in the range of 19.66-49.52% as compared to COX-1 inhibition (3.93-19.61%). The results of the antioxidant study revealed that the selected plants were found to be effective 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH), and superoxide radical (SOR) scavenging agents. High-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint of flavonoids was used as a measure of quality control of the selected plant samples. The results of the present findings strengthen the potential of the selected plants as a resource for the discovery of novel anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agents.

Dietary stimulators of GLUT4 expression and translocation in skeletal muscle: a mini-review

Chronic insulin resistance can lead to type II diabetes mellitus, which is also directly influenced by an individual's genetics as well as their lifestyle. Under normal circumstances, insulin facilitates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue by stimulating glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation and activity. GLUT4 activity is directly correlated with the ability to clear elevated blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. In diabetes, energy excess and prolonged hyperinsulinemia suppress muscle and adipose response to insulin, in part through reduced GLUT4 membrane levels. This work uniquely describes much of the experimental data demonstrating the effects of various dietary components on GLUT4 expression and translocation in skeletal muscle. These observations implicate several individual dietary chemicals as potential adjuvant therapies in the maintenance of diabetes and insulin resistance.

Effect of different levels of dietary sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel extract on humoral immune system responses in broiler chickens

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel extract (SOPE) on humoral immune system responses in broiler chickens. Three hundred 1-day broilers (Ross-308) were randomly allocated to treatments varying in supplemental SOPE added in the drinking water. The experimental groups consisted of three treatments fed for 42 days as follows: a control treatment without feed extract, a treatment containing 1000 ppm of SOPE and a treatment containing 1250 ppm of SOPE. All treatments were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. Broilers were vaccinated with Newcastle disease virus (NDV), avian influenza (AI), infectious bursal disease (IBD) and infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) vaccines. Antibody titer response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was higher in the group fed 1250 ppm of SOPE (P < 0.05) as well as for immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM. Similarly, antibody titer responses to all vaccines were constantly elevated (P < 0.05) by SOPE enrichment in a dose-dependent manner. Relative weights of spleen and bursa of Fabricius were unaffected by treatments. Dietary SOPE supplementation may improve the immune response and diseases resistance, indicating that it can constitute a useful additive in broiler feeding. Thus, supplying SOPE in rations may help to improve relative immune response in broiler chickens.

Flavonoids from fruit and vegetables: a focus on cardiovascular risk factors

Epidemiological studies suggest that high intakes of dietary flavonoids are associated with decreased cardiovascular disease mortality and risk factors. Less is known about the cardioprotective effects of flavonoids from fruit and vegetables. This review summarizes data from studies which examine the effects of commonly consumed fruit and vegetables on cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers in healthy volunteers or at-risk individuals. Although flavonoids from apples, berries, and onions appear to impact positively on blood pressure, vascular function, and serum lipid levels, further research is required to find out the optimal quantity and food matrix for conferring substantial clinical benefit. The benefits from citrus flavonoids are still inconclusive. Further robust, longer-term dietary intervention studies, with the inclusion of placebo or control arms, are required to improve the credibility of the findings and confirm current observations. An improved understanding of the impact of flavonoids from fruit and vegetables can help one make discerning food choices for optimal cardiovascular health.