Lipid-lowering efficacy of hesperetin metabolites in high-cholesterol fed rats

Benzopyrone, a privileged scaffold in drug discovery: An overview of FDA-approved drugs and clinical candidates

Natural products have always served as an important source of drugs for treating various diseases. Among various privileged natural product scaffolds, the benzopyrone class of compounds has a substantial presence among biologically active compounds. One of the pioneering anticoagulant drugs, warfarin approved in 1954 bears a benzo-α-pyrone (coumarin) nucleus. The widely investigated psoriasis drugs, methoxsalen, and trioxsalen, also contain a benzo-α-pyrone nucleus. Benzo-γ-pyrone (chromone) containing drugs, cromoglic acid, and pranlukast were approved as treatments for asthma in 1982 and 2007, respectively. Numerous other small molecules with a benzopyrone core are under clinical investigation. The present review discusses the discovery, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion properties, and synthetic approaches for the Food and Drug Administration-approved and clinical-stage benzopyrone class of compounds. The role of the pyrone core in biological activity has also been discussed. The present review unravels the potential of benzopyrone core in medicinal chemistry and drug development.

Bacterial polyynes uncovered: a journey through their bioactive properties, biosynthetic mechanisms, and sustainable production strategies

Covering: up to 2023Conjugated polyynes are natural compounds characterized by alternating single and triple carbon-carbon bonds, endowing them with distinct physicochemical traits and a range of biological activities. While traditionally sourced mainly from plants, recent investigations have revealed many compounds originating from bacterial strains. This review synthesizes current research on bacterial-derived conjugated polyynes, delving into their biosynthetic routes, underscoring the variety in their molecular structures, and examining their potential applications in biotechnology. Additionally, we outline future directions for metabolic and protein engineering to establish more robust and stable platforms for their production.

Mediterranean Shrub Species as a Source of Biomolecules against Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with oxidative stress, due to an imbalance in the oxidation-reduction reactions at the cellular level. Various treatments are available to treat these diseases, although they often do not cure them and have many adverse effects. Therefore, it is necessary to find complementary and/or alternative drugs that replace current treatments with fewer side effects. It has been demonstrated that natural products derived from plants, specifically phenolic compounds, have a great capacity to suppress oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals thus, they may be used as alternative alternative pharmacological treatments for pathological conditions associated with an increase in oxidative stress. The plant species that dominate the Mediterranean ecosystems are characterized by having a wide variety of phenolic compound content. Therefore, these species might be important sources of neuroprotective biomolecules. To evaluate this potential, 24 typical plant species of the Mediterranean ecosystems were selected, identifying the most important compounds present in them. This set of plant species provides a total of 403 different compounds. Of these compounds, 35.7% are phenolic acids and 55.6% are flavonoids. The most relevant of these compounds are gallic, vanillic, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, and ferulic acids, apigenin, kaempferol, myricitrin, quercetin, isoquercetin, quercetrin, rutin, catechin and epicatechin, which are widely distributed among the analyzed plant species (in over 10 species) and which have been involved in the literature in the prevention of different neurodegenerative pathologies. It is also important to mention that three of these plant species, Pistacea lentiscus, Lavandula stoechas and Thymus vulgaris, have most of the described compounds with protective properties against neurodegenerative diseases. The present work shows that the plant species that dominate the studied geographic area can provide an important source of phenolic compounds for the pharmacological and biotechnological industry to prepare extracts or isolated compounds for therapy against neurodegenerative diseases.

Optimized Sugar-Free Citrus Lemon Juice Fermentation Efficiency and the Lipid-Lowering Effects of the Fermented Juice

Aging and obesity make humans more prone to cardiovascular and metabolic syndrome diseases, leading to several serious health conditions, including hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbance. This study aimed to explore the hypolipidemic effect of fermented citrus lemon juice using a hyperlipidemic hamster model. The sugar-free lemon juice's fermentation was optimized, and the characteristics of fresh and fermented lemon juice (FLJ) were evaluated and compared, which contained polyphenols and superoxide dismutase-like activity. Results showed that the absorption and utilization efficiency of FLJ was higher compared with the unfermented lemon juice. This study's prefermentation efficiency evaluation found that 21-30 days of bacterial DMS32004 and DMS32005 fermentation of fresh lemon juice provided the best fermentation benefits, and 21-day FLJ was applied as a remedy after the efficiency compassion. After six weeks of feeding, the total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) values in the blood and liver of the FLJ treatment groups were decreased compared with the high-fat diet (HFD) group. In addition, the blood low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were significantly reduced in the FLJ treatment groups compared with the HFD group. In contrast, the blood high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) to LDL-C ratio increased considerably in the FLJ treatment groups, and the total to HDL ratio was significantly lower than in the HFD group. Compared with the HFD group, the TC content in the FLJ treatment groups' feces increased significantly. This study demonstrated that the sugar-free fermentation method and fermentation cycle management provided FLJ with the potential to regulate blood lipids. Further research and verification will be carried out to isolate specific substances from the FLJ and identify their mechanisms of action.

Dietary supplementation with honeycomb extracts positively improved egg nutritional and flavor quality, serum antioxidant and immune functions of laying ducks

Introduction

Honeycomb is a traditional natural health medicine and has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antitumor activities. It is currently unclear whether honeycomb extract supplementation has positive effects on the intensive farming laying duck production. This study aims to evaluate the effects of honeycomb extracts on the laying performance, egg nutritional and flavor quality, serum biochemical indexes, and antioxidant and immune status in laying ducks.

Methods

A total of 672 healthy 28-week-old Shanma laying ducks with similar laying performance and body weight were randomly distributed into four dietary treatments with 6 replicates of 28 birds. The birds in each treatment were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0 (control group), 0.5, 1.0 or 1.5 g/kg honeycomb extracts, respectively. Feed and water were provided ad libitum for 45 days. Laying performance, egg quality, egg nutrition and flavor quality, serum parameters were assessed.

Results

The results showed that compared with the control group, honeycomb extracts addition significantly increased the average daily feed intake but did not affect the other laying performance indexes, egg quality or serum biochemical indexes of laying ducks. Dietary supplementation with honeycomb extracts significantly increased crude protein content and decreased the contents of cholesterol and trimethylamine in eggs. Diets supplemented with 1.5 g/kg honeycomb extracts significantly improved egg total amino acids and flavor amino acids contents, monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids composition and enhanced the serum antioxidant activity and immune functions of ducks.

Discussion

Duck eggs are rich in nutrients and a valuable source of high-quality food for human, while they are rarely consumed directly by consumers because of their stronger fishy odor and lower sensory quality. Many studies have showed that the influence of dietary supplementation on egg components. This study indicated that dietary supplementation with honeycomb extracts positively reduced the contents of egg cholesterol and trimethylamine, improve egg amino acids contents and fatty acid profiles, enhanced serum antioxidant and immune status of laying ducks. The recommended supplemental level of honeycomb extracts was 1.5 g/kg in the diet of laying ducks.

Hesperetin attenuates the expression of markers of adipose tissue fibrosis in pre-adipocytes

BACKGROUND

Excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in adipose tissue is a hallmark of fibrosis, leading to disrupted adipose tissue homeostasis and metabolic dysfunction. Hesperetin, a flavonoid compound, has shown promising anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties. Therefore, we investigated the anti-fibrotic effects of hesperetin, through targeting ECM components and matrix metalloproteinase enzymes.

METHODS

3T3-L1 cells were cultured in DMEM, containing 10% FBS and 1% penicillin/streptomycin. Cells were treated with a range of hesperetin concentrations, and the cell viability was determined using MTT assay. Subsequently, the expression of genes encoding collagen VI, osteopontin, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (Mmp-2) and Mmp-9 was analyzed using specific primers and real-time PCR technique. To evaluate protein levels of collagen VI and osteopontin, Western blotting was performed.

RESULTS

Hesperetin affected the viability of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with IC50 of 447.4 µM, 339.2 µM and 258.8 µM (24 h, 48 and 72 h, respectively). Hesperetin significantly reduced the gene and protein expression of both collagen VI and osteopontin in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes, in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Hesperetin was also able to cause a remarkable decline in gene expression of Mmp2 and Mmp9.

CONCLUSION

Hesperetin could potently reduce the production of markers of adipose tissue fibrosis and might be considered a potential anti-fibrotic compound in obesity. Thus, hesperetin has the potency to be used for the treatment of obesity-associated fibrosis.

Dihydrocaffeic Acid-Is It the Less Known but Equally Valuable Phenolic Acid?

Dihydrocaffeic acid (DHCA) is a phenolic acid bearing a catechol ring and three-carbon side chain. Despite its being found in minor amounts in numerous plants and fungi of different origins, it has attracted the interest of various research groups in many fields of science, from food to biomedical applications. The review article presented herein aims to show a wider audience the health benefits and therapeutic, industrial, and nutritional potential of dihydrocaffeic acid, by sheddinglight on its occurrence, biosynthesis, bioavailability, and metabolism. The scientific literature describes at least 70 different derivatives of dihydrocaffeic acid, both those occurring naturally and those obtained via chemical and enzymatic methods. Among the most frequently used enzymes that were applied for the modification of the parent DHCA structure, there are lipases that allow for obtaining esters and phenolidips, tyrosinases used for the formation of the catechol ring, and laccases to functionalize this phenolic acid. In many studies, both in vitro and in vivo, the protective effect of DHCA and its derivatives on cells subjected to oxidative stress and inflammation were acknowledged.

Pectolinarigenin shows lipid-lowering effects by inhibiting fatty acid biosynthesis in vitro and in vivo

Pectolinarigenin is the main flavonoid compound and presents in Linaria vulgaris and Cirsium chanroenicum. In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was applied to dissect the effect of pectolinarigenin on the transcriptome changes in the high lipid Huh-7 cells induced by oleic acid. RNA-seq results revealed that 15 pathways enriched by downregulated genes are associated with cell metabolism including cholesterol metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, etc. Moreover, 13 key genes related to lipid metabolism were selected. Among them, PPARG coactivator 1 beta (PPARGC1B) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A) were found to be upregulated, solute carrier family 27 member 1(SLC27A1), acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha (ACACA), fatty-acid synthase (FASN), 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA Reductase (HMGCR), etc. were found to be downregulated. Glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and fatty acid biosynthesis were all significantly downregulated, according to gene set variation analysis and gene set enrichment analysis. Besides, protein levels of FASN, ACACA, and SLC27A1 were all decreased, whereas PPARγ and CPT1A were increased. Docking models showed that PPARγ may be a target for pectolinarigenin. Furthermore, pectolinarigenin reduced serum TG and hepatic TG, and improved insulin sensitivity in vivo. Our findings suggest that pectolinarigenin may target PPARγ and prevent fatty acid biosynthesis.

Syringic acid demonstrates better anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects than ascorbic acid via maintenance of the endogenous antioxidants and downregulation of pro-inflammatory and apoptotic markers in DMN-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Dimethyl nitrosamine (DMN) is a known hepatotoxin, carcinogen, and mutagen. This study is therefore carried out to investigate the therapeutic effects of syringic acid (SYRA) and ascorbic acid (ASCA) in DMN-induced hepatic injury in rats. Following DMN administrations, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly increased. Also significantly increased were levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Following treatment with SYRA and ASCA, the activities of ALT, AST, GPx, CAT and SOD, as well as MDA, GSH, TNF-α, IL-1β, and NFkB levels were significantly reduced. Overall, both treatments were effective, but SYRA had a better therapeutic effect than ASCA. Therefore, this promising potential of SYRA can be taken advantage of in the treatment of DMN-induced hepatic injury.

Effect of hesperetin on the pharmacokinetics of metoprolol succinate in rats

Background

Metoprolol is a substrate of CYP3A4, 2B6, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and p-glycoprotein (p-gp). Hesperetin was reported as an inhibitor of cytochrome P-450 (CYP) enzymes and p-gp. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of hesperetin on the pharmacokinetics of metoprolol in rats and in vitro models. In in vivo studies, male Wistar rats were treated with metoprolol (30 mg/kg) once a day for 15 consecutive days alone and in combination with hesperetin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg). Blood samples were withdrawn from the tail vein on the 1st day in the single-dose pharmacokinetic study and on the 15th day in the repeated-dose pharmacokinetic study. In in vitro studies, metoprolol was incubated in the presence or absence of hesperetin and traditional p-gp inhibitors using rat-everted gut sacs. Reverse phase-high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was used to determine the amounts of metoprolol in the plasma and incubated samples (RP-HPLC).

Results

The Cmax, AUC, and half-life (t1/2) of metoprolol significantly increased by twofold compared to the metoprolol group in rats pre-treated with hesperetin. The clearance and volume of distribution both decreased significantly. Metoprolol transport was dramatically increased in the presence of hesperetin and quinidine (standard p-gp inhibitor) in in vitro study.

Conclusion

The present study results revealed that hesperetin significantly increased the absorption of metoprolol in rats and everted gut sacs in vitro might be due to the inhibition of CYP and p-gp.

A review on the immunomodulatory properties of functional nutraceuticals as dietary interventions for children to combat COVID-19 related infections

COVID-19 is a significant threat to humanity in the present day due to the rapid increase in the number of infections worldwide. While most children may be spared of the direct mortality effects of the disease, those with weak immune systems are prone to adverse effects. Child mortality increases due to the stress caused to the health care system that disrupts essential health care needs such as immunisation and antenatal care. The use of functional foods (FF) aids in disease-prevention as they are known to have protective effects against COVID-19 by boosting children’s cellular and humoral immunity. Plant components such as glycyrrhizin, epigallocatechin gallate, allicin, and fucoidan exhibit antiviral properties against various viruses, including SARS-CoV 2. Microbial foods that are made of probiotics, can enhance immunity against various respiratory viruses. Food enriched with additives such as lactoferrin, piperine, and zinc can boost immunity against COVID-19. With proper definitive drug therapy not available for treating COVID-19 and most of the disease management tools rely on symptoms and non-specific supportive care, developing a functional paediatric formulation will prevent further deterioration in infant health. It is wise to investigate the toxicological aspects of Functional Foods components especially when formulating for children. The safe limits of ingredients should be strictly followed during FFs formulation. Stronger regulations with advanced analytical techniques can help to formulate functional foods into the mainstream in child nutraceuticals. The purpose of this review is to compile collective information on the functional nutraceuticals specifically for infants and children up to the age of 10 years that could confer immunity against COVID-19 and other related viruses.

Comparison of protective effects of hesperetin and pectolinarigenin on high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis in Golden Syrian hamsters

A comparative study was conducted to determine whether hesperetin and pectolinarigenin could lower total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced high lipid model in Golden Syrian hamsters. 48 Golden Syrian hamsters (8 weeks old) were fed with a HFD for 15 days. HFD induced significant increases in plasma TC, TG, LDL, and HDL. Then, these high lipid hamsters were divided into four groups and were administered with 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na), hesperetin (100 mg/kg/day), pectolinarigenin (100 mg/kg/day) or atorvastatin (1.0 mg/kg/day), for 7 weeks. It was found that pectolinarigenin treatment resulted in significant reductions in body weight, adiposity index, serum levels of TC, TG and hepatic TC, TG and free fatty acid compared to those in control hamsters with hyperlipidemia (P<0.05). However, hesperetin treatment only caused reductions in plasma TC and hepatic TG levels. Besides, the hamsters treated with pectolinarigenin showed a relatively normal hepatic architecture compared to the hepatic steatosis shown in the control group. Moreover, the expressions of fatty-acid synthase (Fasn) and solute carrier family 27 member 1 (Slc27a1) involved in lipid biosynthesis, were suppressed in the pectolinarigenin-treated groups, and the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (Cpt1a) involved in fatty acid oxidation was increased in the pectolinarigenin-treated group. Taken together, these results suggest pectolinarigenin exerts stronger protective effects against hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis than hesperetin, which may involve the inhibition of lipid uptake and biosynthesis.

Protective Effects of Ferulic Acid on Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disease in which protein, fat, carbohydrates and other substances are metabolized in a disorderly way. Ferulic acid (FA) is a phenolic acid found in many vegetables, fruits, cereals and Chinese herbs that has a strong effect on ameliorating MetS. However, no review has summarized the mechanisms of FA in treating MetS. This review collected articles related to the effects of FA on ameliorating the common symptoms of MetS, such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension and obesity, from different sources involving Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar, etc. This review summarizes the potential mechanisms of FA in improving various metabolic disorders according to the collected articles. FA ameliorates diabetes via the inhibition of the expressions of PEPCK, G6Pase and GP, the upregulation of the expressions of GK and GS, and the activation of the PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathway. The decrease of blood pressure is related to the endothelial function of the aortas and RAAS. The improvement of the lipid spectrum is mediated via the suppression of the HMG-Co A reductase, by promoting the ACSL1 expression and by the regulation of the factors associated with lipid metabolism. Furthermore, FA inhibits obesity by upregulating the MEK/ERK pathway, the MAPK pathway and the AMPK signaling pathway and by inhibiting SREBP-1 expression. This review can be helpful for the development of FA as an appreciable agent for MetS treatment.

Hesperetin attenuates UVA-induced photodamage in human dermal fibroblast cells

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation causes skin damage. Recently, natural compounds have become an interest to protect skin from UV-induced photodamages.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the protective effects of hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, on UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and photoaging.

RESULTS

Our results showed that hesperetin increased the cell viability, suppressed the intracellular ROS levels, and decreased the expression of MMPs including MMP-1 and MMP-3, pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and COX-2 in UVA-irradiated HDFs. Besides, hesperetin exerted an anti-apoptotic effect by increasing expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and decreasing expression of pro-apoptotic protein Bax. Moreover, these anti-photodamage effects were mediated by inhibition of ERK, p38/AP-1, and NF-κb/p65 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, hesperetin may be useful in the prevention of UVA-induced skin damage.

Hesperetin, a Promising Dietary Supplement for Preventing the Development of Calcific Aortic Valve Disease

BACKGROUND

No effective therapeutic agents for calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) are available currently. Dietary supplementation has been proposed as a novel treatment modality for various diseases. As a flavanone, hesperetin is widely abundant in citrus fruits and has been proven to exert protective effects in multiple diseases. However, the role of hesperetin in CAVD remains unclear.

METHODS

Human aortic valve interstitial cells (VICs) were isolated from aortic valve leaflets. A mouse model of aortic valve stenosis was constructed by direct wire injury (DWI). Immunoblotting, immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry were used to investigate the roles of sirtuin 7 (Sirt7) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in hesperetin-mediated protective effects in VICs.

RESULTS

Hesperetin supplementation protected the mice from wire-injury-induced aortic valve stenosis; in vitro, hesperetin inhibited the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced activation of NF-κB inflammatory cytokine secretion and osteogenic factors expression, reduced ROS production and apoptosis, and abrogated LPS-mediated injury to the mitochondrial membrane potential and the decline in the antioxidant levels in VICs. These benefits of hesperetin may have been obtained by activating Nrf2-ARE signaling, which corrected the dysfunctional mitochondria. Furthermore, we found that hesperetin could directly bind to Sirt7 and that the silencing of Sirt7 decreased the effects of hesperetin in VICs and potently abolished the ability of hesperetin to increase Nrf2 transcriptional activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work demonstrates that hesperetin plays protective roles in the aortic valve through the Sirt7-Nrf2-ARE axis; thus, hesperetin might be a potential dietary supplement that could prevent the development of CAVD.

Metabolism of phenolics in coffee and plant-based foods by canonical pathways: an assessment of the role of fatty acid β-oxidation to generate biologically-active and -inactive intermediates

ω-Phenyl-alkenoic acids are abundant in coffee, fruits, and vegetables. Along with ω-phenyl-alkanoic acids, they are produced from numerous dietary (poly)phenols and aromatic amino acids in vivo. This review addresses how phenyl-ring substitution and flux modulates their gut microbiota and endogenous β-oxidation. 3',5'-Dihydroxy-derivatives (from alkyl-resorcinols, flavanols, proanthocyanidins), and 4'-hydroxy-phenolic acids (from tyrosine, p-coumaric acid, naringenin) are β-oxidation substrates yielding benzoic acids. In contrast, 3',4',5'-tri-substituted-derivatives, 3',4'-dihydroxy-derivatives and 3'-methoxy-4'-hydroxy-derivatives (from coffee, tea, cereals, many fruits and vegetables) are poor β-oxidation substrates with metabolism diverted via gut microbiota dehydroxylation, phenylvalerolactone formation and phase-2 conjugation, possibly a strategy to conserve limited pools of coenzyme A. 4'-Methoxy-derivatives (citrus fruits) or 3',4'-dimethoxy-derivatives (coffee) are susceptible to hepatic "reverse" hydrogenation suggesting incompatibility with enoyl-CoA-hydratase. Gut microbiota-produced 3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxy-derivatives (citrus fruits) and 3'-hydroxy-derivatives (numerous (poly)phenols) are excreted as the phenyl-hydracrylic acid β-oxidation intermediate suggesting incompatibility with hydroxy-acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, albeit with considerable inter-individual variation. Further investigation is required to explain inter-individual variation, factors determining the amino acid to which C6-C3 and C6-C1 metabolites are conjugated, the precise role(s) of l-carnitine, whether glycine might be limiting, and whether phenolic acid-modulation of β-oxidation explains how phenolic acids affect key metabolic conditions, such as fatty liver, carbohydrate metabolism and insulin resistance.

Ferulic acid attenuates high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemia by activating classic bile acid synthesis pathway

Ferulic acid (FA), a natural phenolic phytochemical abundantly present in whole grains, displays promising therapeutic effects on hypercholesterolemia while its underlying mechanism not fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the cholesterol-lowering effect of FA in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and its potential molecular mechanism. FA supplementation alleviated HFD-induced hypercholesterolemia (–13.2%, p < 0.05), along with increased excretion of bile acids (BAs) in feces (37.0%, p < 0.05). Mechanism studies showed that FA activated the expression of cholesterol 7α hydroxylase (CYP7A1), a rate-limiting enzyme in BA biosynthesis in the liver, which increased the BAs biosynthesis from cholesterol. Surprisingly, increased excretion of BAs in feces is a consequence, not a cause, of CYP7A1 activation. Furthermore, enterohepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling is not involved in the activation of hepatic CYP7A1 by FA. In conclusion, FA activates CYP7A1 through non-FXR signaling, which on the one hand effectively prevents hypercholesterolemia, and on the other hand leads to secondary BAs elevation in plasma. The latter may be the key to the anti-obesity and hypoglycemic effects of FA.

Hesperetin alleviates DMH induced toxicity via suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation in the colon of Wistar rats

1,2-Dimethylhydrazine (DMH), a colon-specific environmental toxicant is one among the carcinogen responsible for the cause of colon cancer. The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of Hesperetin (HST) against colon toxicity induced by DMH in Wistar rats. HST, a flavonoid widely found in citrus fruits possesses several biological activities including anti-microbial, anti-oxidant properties among others. A single dose of DMH (40 mg/kg body weight) was administered subcutaneously on 1st day for induction of colon toxicity followed by oral treatment with HST at a dose of 20 mg/kg bodyweight for 14 consecutive days. DMH administration leads to excessive ROS generation, resulting in an imbalance in redox homeostasis and causing membrane lipid peroxidation, which is also partly due to the decrease in the level of tissue antioxidant machinery. Our result showed HST significantly ameliorates DMH-induced lipid peroxidation and also substantially increases the activity/level of various anti-oxidant proteins (GR, GPx, GST, GSH, and SOD). HST was also found to reduce the expression of inflammatory proteins (TNF-α, IL-6, i-NOS, COX-2, NF-kB-p65), goblet cell disintegration as well as mucin depletion (sulfo and sialomucin) in the colon that was found to be elevated upon administration of DMH. Our histological results further provide confirmation of the protective role of HST against DMH-induced pathological alterations. The results of the present study demonstrate supplementation of HST is beneficial in ameliorating DMH-induced toxicity by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, goblet cell disintegration as well mucin depletion in the colon of Wistar rats.

Screening and Characterization of Some Lactobacillaceae for Detection of Cholesterol-Lowering Activities

Dyslipidemia, specifically abnormal levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), is an important risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Evidence showing the promising abilities of probiotics to lower total cholesterol or LDL-C has, however, not yet convinced experts to recommend probiotic bacteria as treatment for blood lipid management. Therefore, there are opportunities for the development of new efficient cholesterol-lowering probiotics. Bile salt hydrolase (BSH) and feruloyl esterase (FAE) are bacterial enzymes proposed to explain the cholesterol-lowering capacity of some bacteria and have both been shown to be responsible for lipid reduction in vivo. Here, in order to select for cholesterol-lowering bacteria, 70 strains related to Lactobacillaceae were screened for BSH and FAE activities. Based on this two-way screening approach, two bacteria were selected and assessed for their capacity to assimilate cholesterol in vitro, another suggested mechanism. Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285 showed BSH and FAE activity as well as capacity to assimilate cholesterol in vitro. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CHOL-200 exhibited BSH activity and ability to assimilate cholesterol. These properties observed in vitro make both strains good probiotic candidates for the management of dyslipidemia. Further investigation is needed to assess their ability to reduce blood cholesterol in human trial.

The role of Toll-like receptors and neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, significantly affecting patients' life. Pathologically, PD is associated with the extensive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in various regions of the central nervous system (CNS), specifically the substantia nigra. This neuronal loss is accompanied by the aggregation of misfolded protein, named α-synuclein.

MAIN TEXT

Recent studies detected several clues of neuroinflammation in PD samples using postmortem human PD brains and various PD animal models. Some evidence of neuroinflammation in PD patients included higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), presence of activated microglia in various brain regions such as substantia nigra, infiltration of peripheral inflammatory cells in affected brain regions, and altered function of cellular immunity like monocytes phagocytosis defects. On the other side, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are innate immune receptors primarily located on microglia, as well as other immune and non-immune cells, expressing pivotal roles in recognizing exogenous and endogenous stimuli and triggering inflammatory responses. Most studies indicated an increased expression of TLRs in the brain and peripheral blood cells of PD samples. Besides, this upregulation was associated with excessive neuroinflammation followed by neurodegeneration in affected regions. Therefore, evidence proposed that TLR-mediated neuroinflammation might lead to a dopaminergic neural loss in PD patients. In this regard, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 have the most prominent roles.

CONCLUSION

Although the presence of inflammation in acute phases of PD might have protective effects concerning the clearance of α-synuclein and delaying the disease advancement, the chronic activation of TLRs and neuroinflammation might lead to neurodegeneration, resulting in the disease progression. Therefore, this study aimed to review additional evidence of the contribution of TLRs and neuroinflammation to PD pathogenesis, with the hope that TLRs could serve as novel disease-modifying therapeutic targets in PD patients in the future.

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.

Comparison of three antioxidants in chemical and biological assays on porcine oocytes during ageing in vitro

Our previous studies have already revealed that β-cryptoxanthin (BCX), hesperetin (HES), and icariin (ICA) antioxidants are effective for in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes. In this study, we investigated which of BCX, HES, or ICA was more effective for IVM of porcine oocytes. The antioxidant properties were assessed with aged porcine oocytes and embryos by comparing 2,2-diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)hydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power, and H2O2 scavenging activity assays. The chemical assay results demonstrated that BCX had a greater DPPH scavenging activity and reducing power than HES and ICA, compared with controls. However, the H2O2 scavenging activity of the antioxidants was similar when tested at the optimal concentrations of 1 μM BCX (BCX-1), 100 μM HES (HES-100), and 5 μM ICA (ICA-5). The biological assay results showed that BCX-1 treatment was more effective in inducing a significant reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), improving glutathione levels, and increasing the expression of antioxidant genes. In addition, BCX-1 inhibited apoptosis by increasing the expression of anti-apoptotic genes and decreasing pro-apoptotic genes in porcine parthenogenetic blastocysts. BCX-1 also significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate compared with the ageing control group, HES-100 and ICA-5. This study demonstrates that damage from ROS produced during oocyte ageing can be prevented by supplementing antioxidants into the IVM medium, and BCX may be a potential candidate to improve assisted reproductive technologies.

Phytoestrogens as Potential Antiandrogenic Agents Against Prostate Cancer: An In Silico Analysis

Background:

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide. The androgen deprivation therapy or castration leads to the recurrence of castration-resistant prostate cancer after some time. Androgen receptor is one of the most promising targets for the treatment of prostate cancer. The health benefits of phytoestrogens led us to explore them for their androgen receptor inhibition potential that may lead to inhibition of initiation and progression of prostate cancer.

Methods:

Protein-ligand interaction plays a central role in structure-based drug design, so we screened 23 phytoestrogens for their binding affinity to the androgen receptor using the molecular docking approach. These phytoestrogens were also tested for their ADME and toxicity profiles using the software.

Results:

Based on binding affinity, interacting amino acid residues, pharmacokinetics and toxicity profile, four phytoestrogens, namely naringenin, luteolin, hesperetin, and biochanin A were shortlisted as lead molecules.

Conclusion:

Therefore, our study has shown that these four phytoestrogens could be promising candidates for further evaluation for prostate cancer treatment or management.

Vitis vinifera L. Pruning Waste for Bud-Preparations as Source of Phenolic Compounds–Traditional and Innovative Extraction Techniques to Produce New Natural Products

Herbal products are now considered among the most important sources of phenolic compounds: the FINNOVER project aimed at the creation and development of sustainable supply chains to extract and use natural biologically active agents. Vitis vinifera is one of the most utilised herbal products derived from buds and sprouts as polyphenolic food supplements for its homeostatic and astringent properties. This research was aimed to describe the antioxidant capacity and the phytochemical composition of V. vinifera herbal products by the application of spectroscopic and chromatographic fingerprints considering phenolics as potential markers to significantly differentiate traditional preparations (macerates) from innovative extracts obtained by an ultrasound extraction from V. vinifera buds. Two different commercial products were also considered. Flavonols were the most abundant class in ultrasound extracts (45%), while phenolic acids were the most important class in traditional macerates (49%) and commercial bud-preparations (about 50%). This study may support the potential use of V. vinifera bud-products (starting from pruning byproducts) as food supplements to integrate human diet with good amounts of phenolics. Finally, the use of different extraction methods on the same plant material could be an important development to produce innovative herbal products with a phytochemical composition similar to traditional preparations.

Citrus Genus and Its Waste Utilization: A Review on Health-Promoting Activities and Industrial Application

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, tangerines, and mandarins, whose production is increasing every year with the rise of consumer demand, are among the most popular fruits cultivated throughout the globe. Citrus genus belongs to the Rutaceae family and is known for its beneficial effects on health for centuries. These plant groups contain many beneficial nutrients and bioactive compounds. These compounds have antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiplatelet aggregation, and anti-inflammatory activities. Citrus waste, generated by citrus-processing industries in large amounts every year, has an important economic value due to richness of bioactive compounds. The present review paper has summarized the application and properties of Citrus and its waste in some fields such as food and drinks, traditional medicine practices, and recent advances in modern approaches towards pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulations.

Medicine and food with particular reference to chinpi, dried citrus peel, and a component of Ninjin'yoeito

Kampo medicines contain many kinds of herbal drugs. Chinpi and Kippi, dried citrus peels, are components of a substantial number of Kampo medicine. They contain abundant flavonoids and studies on hesperidin, narirutin, and nobiletin as active ingredient have been conducted. Conversely, in Kagoshima prefecture, located in the southwestern part of the Japanese Islands, various citrus products are cultivated. Among them, Tankan and Daimasaki are specialies. In this study, we conducted high- performance liquid chromatography to determine the difference in flavonoid contents among Tankan, Daimasaki, Tankan related product, Chinpi, and Kippi. As a result, several active components, such as hesperidin, narirutin, nobiletin, and tangeretin, in common with crude drug, Chinpi, were detected in local citrus fruits. In addition, some active components little or not found in Chinpi, for example hesperetin and rutin, were detected in the local products. A detailed analysis of active components considering their genetic origin, the time of fruit collection, and different parts of the fruit used (peel, albedo, edible parts, and the whole) will need to be discussed to get the most out of the citrus fruits or make best use of them for health and longevity.

Natural Products with tandem Anti-inflammatory, Immunomodulatory and Anti-SARS-CoV/2 effects: A Drug Discovery Perspective against SARS-CoV-2

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 is still causing victims with long-term health consequences, mass deaths, and collapsing healthcare systems around the world. The disease has no efficient drugs. However, previous studies revealed that SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV have 96% and 86.5% similarities in cysteine proteases (3CL^pro) and papain-like protease (PL^pro) sequences, respectively. This resemblance could be significant in the search for drug candidates with antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2.

OBJECTIVE

This paper is a compilation of natural products that inhibit SARS-CoV 3CL^pro and PL^pro and, concomitantly, reduce inflammation and/or modulate the immune system as a perspective strategy for COVID-19 drug discovery. It also presents in silico studies performed on these selected natural products using SARS-CoV-2 3CL^pro and PL^pro as targets to propose a list of hit compounds.

METHOD

The plant metabolites were selected in the literature based on their biological activities on SARS-CoV proteins, inflammatory mediators, and immune response. The consensus docking analysis was performed using four different packages.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine compounds reported in the literature with inhibitory effects on SARS-CoV proteins were reported as anti-inflammatory agents. Fourteen of them showed in previous studies immunomodulatory effects. Five and six of these compounds showed significant in silico consensus as drug candidates that can inhibit PL^pro and 3CL^pro, respectively. Our findings corroborated recent results reported on anti-SARS-CoV-2 in the literature.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that amentoflavone, rubranoside B, savinin, psoralidin, hirsutenone, and papyriflavonol A are good drug candidate for the search of antibiotics against COVID-19.

Hesperetin Nanocrystals Improve Mitochondrial Function in a Cell Model of Early Alzheimer Disease

Mitochondrial dysfunction represents a hallmark of both brain aging and age-related neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer disease (AD). AD-related mitochondrial dysfunction is characterized by an impaired electron transport chain (ETC), subsequent decreased adenosine triphoshpate (ATP) levels, and elevated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The bioactive citrus flavanone hesperetin (Hst) is known to modulate inflammatory response, to function as an antioxidant, and to provide neuroprotective properties. The efficacy in improving mitochondrial dysfunction of Hst nanocrystals (HstN) with increased bioavailability has not yet been investigated. Human SH-SY5Y cells harboring neuronal amyloid precursor protein (APP₆₉₅) acted as a model for the initial phase of AD. MOCK-transfected cells served as controls. The energetic metabolite ATP was determined using a luciferase-catalyzed bioluminescence assay. The activity of mitochondrial respiration chain complexes was assessed by high-resolution respirometry using a Clarke electrode. Expression levels of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex genes were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The levels of amyloid β-protein (Aβ_1-40) were measured using homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF). ROS levels, peroxidase activity, and cytochrome c activity were determined using a fluorescence assay. Compared to pure Hst dissolved in ethanol (HstP), SH-SY5Y-APP₆₉₅ cells incubated with HstN resulted in significantly reduced mitochondrial dysfunction: ATP levels and respiratory chain complex activity significantly increased. Gene expression levels of RCC I, IV, and V were significantly upregulated. In comparison, the effects of HstN on SY5Y-MOCK control cells were relatively small. Pure Hst dissolved in ethanol (HstP) had almost no effect on both cell lines. Neither HstN nor HstP led to significant changes in Aβ_1-40 levels. HstN and HstP were both shown to lower peroxidase activity significantly. Furthermore, HstN significantly reduced cytochrome c activity, whereas HstP had a significant effect on reducing ROS in SH-SY5Y-APP₆₉₅ cells. Thus, it seems that the mechanisms involved may not be linked to altered Aβ production. Nanoflavonoids such as HstN have the potential to prevent mitochondria against dysfunction. Compared to its pure form, HstN showed a greater effect in combatting mitochondrial dysfunction. Further studies should evaluate whether HstN protects against age-related mitochondrial dysfunction and thus may contribute to late-onset AD.

The role and mechanism of citrus flavonoids in cardiovascular diseases prevention and treatment

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been ranked as the leading cause of death in the world, whose global incidence is increasing year by year. Citrus, one of the most popular fruits in the world, is rich in flavonoids. Citrus flavonoids attract special attention due to a variety of biological activities, especially in the prevention and treatment of CVDs. The research progress of citrus flavonoids on CVDs have been constantly updated, but relatively fragmented, which needed to be systematically summarized. Hence, the recent research about citrus flavonoids and CVDs were reviewed, including the types and in vivo processes of citrus flavonoids, epidemiology study and mechanism on prevention and treatment of CVDs by citrus flavonoids. This review would provide a theoretical basis for the citrus flavonoids research and a new idea in the citrus industry development and application.

An integrative drug repositioning framework discovered a potential therapeutic agent targeting COVID-19

The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires an urgent need to find effective therapeutics for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, we developed an integrative drug repositioning framework, which fully takes advantage of machine learning and statistical analysis approaches to systematically integrate and mine large-scale knowledge graph, literature and transcriptome data to discover the potential drug candidates against SARS-CoV-2. Our in silico screening followed by wet-lab validation indicated that a poly-ADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1) inhibitor, CVL218, currently in Phase I clinical trial, may be repurposed to treat COVID-19. Our in vitro assays revealed that CVL218 can exhibit effective inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV-2 replication without obvious cytopathic effect. In addition, we showed that CVL218 can interact with the nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-CoV-2 and is able to suppress the LPS-induced production of several inflammatory cytokines that are highly relevant to the prevention of immunopathology induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

An integrative drug repositioning framework discovered a potential therapeutic agent targeting COVID-19

The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires an urgent need to find effective therapeutics for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, we developed an integrative drug repositioning framework, which fully takes advantage of machine learning and statistical analysis approaches to systematically integrate and mine large-scale knowledge graph, literature and transcriptome data to discover the potential drug candidates against SARS-CoV-2. Our in silico screening followed by wet-lab validation indicated that a poly-ADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1) inhibitor, CVL218, currently in Phase I clinical trial, may be repurposed to treat COVID-19. Our in vitro assays revealed that CVL218 can exhibit effective inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV-2 replication without obvious cytopathic effect. In addition, we showed that CVL218 can interact with the nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-CoV-2 and is able to suppress the LPS-induced production of several inflammatory cytokines that are highly relevant to the prevention of immunopathology induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Synthesis and Chiral Separation of Some 4-thioflavones

A thionation reaction was performed on some chiral flavanones using Lawesson's reagent (LR) and leads to the formation of new chiral thiocarbonyl flavanes. LR in this thionation reaction with Hesperetin and Naringenin gives new flavan-4-thiones with yields ranged between 41 and 52%. Based on the Wittig reaction principle, LR is currently the most widely used reagent for this type of reaction. Enantiomeric separation by high-performance liquid chromatography methods was then set-up using three different polysaccharide-based chiral stationary phases (CSPs). Chiral separations were successfully accomplished with high resolution (1.22 ≤ Rs ≤ 5.23). The chiral discrimination mechanism(s) between the analytes under study, mobile phase, and the CSPs were discussed.

Protective effects of hesperetin on the quality of sperm, apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, and oxidative stress during the process of cryopreservation: An experimental study

Background

Hesperetin is a bioflavonoid compound, largely used in Chinese traditional medicine and found plenty in citrus fruits. Hesperetin has beneficial effects against different diseases. The sperm cryopreservation process is a common method that is used in infertility laboratories. It has been reported that during the cryopreservation process, the quality of sperm is significantly reduced.

Objective

To investigate the effect of hesperetin on the quality of human spermatozoa during the cryopreservation process.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, 22 sperm sample of normozoospermia men who reffered to the infertility department of the Shariati Hospital (Tehran, Iran) Between October and November 2019 were collect and divided in to three groups as: 1) fresh, 2) control (frozen-thawed group without treatment), and 3) treatment group as frozen-thawed samples supplemented with 20 µM hesperetin. Motility, Viability, morphology, Apoptotic-like changes, intracellular H2O2, intracellular O2-, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) was measured.

Results

Hesperetin treatment during the cryopreservation process of human sperm significantly improved the viability, motility, and morphology rates of the spermatozoa after frozen-thawed process in control group (p < 0.01). In addition, it significantly reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, LPO level and increased the percentage of viable sperm cells with intact plasma membrane (p < 0.01) after frozen-thawed process.

Conclusion

Hesperetin can improve the quality of human sperm and also protect human sperm against reactive oxygen species, LPO, and apoptosis during the cryopreservation-thawing process.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extracted Dabai Pulp Oil and Its Defatted Pulp

All food scientists must utilize plants for their application as functional foods to reduce hypercholesterolemia incidence through diet. Canarium odontophyllum (dabai) is a novel source for new healthy oil and functional foods. In this work, we evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) extracted dabai pulp oil (DPO) and defatted dabai pulp (DDP) against hypercholesterolemia elicited by a high-cholesterol diet in rats. Our results show that DPO and DDP supplementation exerted beneficial hypocholesterolemic effects against the high-cholesterol diet-fed rat. Nevertheless, supplementation with DDP revealed superior total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and HMG-CoA reductase lowering efficacy (p < 0.05). Supplementation of either DPO or DDP did not significantly affect AST and ALT levels than normal rats (p > 0.05). Therefore, DDP and DPO are considered as having no toxicological significance. The histological section of rats treated with DPO and DDP showed improved steatosis in hepatocytes. HPLC analysis revealed that DPO and DDP contained syringic acid, which plays an important role in the beneficial effect. In conclusion, our results support the hypocholesterolemic and hepatoprotective effects of DPO and DDP in the hypercholesterolemic rats model.

Hesperetin's health potential: moving from preclinical to clinical evidence and bioavailability issues, to upcoming strategies to overcome current limitations

Flavonoids are common in the plant kingdom and many of them have shown a wide spectrum of bioactive properties. Hesperetin (Hst), the aglycone form of hesperidin, is a great example, and is the most abundant flavonoid found in Citrus plants. This review aims to provide an overview on the in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies reporting the Hst pharmacological effects and to discuss the bioavailability-related issues. Preclinical studies have shown promising effects on cancer, cardiovascular diseases, carbohydrate dysregulation, bone health, and other pathologies. Clinical studies have supported the Hst promissory effects as cardioprotective and neuroprotective agent. However, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to address the other Hst effects observed in preclinical trials, as well as to a more in-depth understanding of its safety profile.

Non-nutrients and nutrients from Latin American fruits for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have been rapidly increasing; among them, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible for around 1/3 of deaths in the world. Environmental factors play a central role in their development. Diet is a very important factor in this scenario, and the intake of fruits and vegetables has been considered as one of the critical strategies for reducing the risk of CVDs. Fruits are a source of micronutrients and bioactive compounds that could have cardioprotective effects through several distinct mechanisms, such as antioxidant, antithrombotic and antiplatelet activities, vasodilatation, improvement of plasma lipid profiles, and modulation of inflammatory signaling. Brazil has a very rich and unexplored biodiversity in its different biomes, with several types of fruit, which are a source of bioactive compounds and micronutrients with therapeutic properties. In this sense, this review shows the current knowledge regarding the cardioprotective properties of selected Latin American and Brazilian fruits, including their effects on the activation of platelets and on the inflammation processes involved in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

Bud-Derivatives, a Novel Source of Polyphenols and How Different Extraction Processes Affect Their Composition

The use of herbal food supplements, as a concentrate form of vegetable extracts, increased so much over the past years to count them among the relevant sources of dietetic polyphenols. Bud-derivatives are a category of botanicals perceived as a "new entry" in this sector since they are still poorly studied. Due to the lack of a manufacturing process specification, very different products can be found on the market in terms of their polyphenolic profile depending on the experimental conditions of manufacturing. In this research two different manufacturing processes, using two different protocols, and eight species (Carpinus betulus L., Cornus mas L., Ficus carica L., Fraxinus excelsior L., Larix decidua Mill., Pinus montana Mill., Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl., Tilia tomentosa Moench), commonly used to produce bud-derivatives, have been considered as a case study. An untargeted spectroscopic fingerprint of the extracts, coupled to chemometrics, provide to be a useful tool to identify these botanicals. The targeted phytochemical fingerprint by HPLC provided a screening of the main bud-derivatives polyphenolic classes highlighting a high variability depending on both method and protocol used. Nevertheless, ultrasonic extraction proved to be less sensitive to the different extraction protocols than conventional maceration regarding the extract polyphenolic profile.

Flavonoids against the Warburg phenotype-concepts of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine to cut the Gordian knot of cancer cell metabolism

The Warburg effect is characterised by increased glucose uptake and lactate secretion in cancer cells resulting from metabolic transformation in tumour tissue. The corresponding molecular pathways switch from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis, due to changes in glucose degradation mechanisms known as the 'Warburg reprogramming' of cancer cells. Key glycolytic enzymes, glucose transporters and transcription factors involved in the Warburg transformation are frequently dysregulated during carcinogenesis considered as promising diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as treatment targets. Flavonoids are molecules with pleiotropic activities. The metabolism-regulating anticancer effects of flavonoids are broadly demonstrated in preclinical studies. Flavonoids modulate key pathways involved in the Warburg phenotype including but not limited to PKM2, HK2, GLUT1 and HIF-1. The corresponding molecular mechanisms and clinical relevance of 'anti-Warburg' effects of flavonoids are discussed in this review article. The most prominent examples are provided for the potential application of targeted 'anti-Warburg' measures in cancer management. Individualised profiling and patient stratification are presented as powerful tools for implementing targeted 'anti-Warburg' measures in the context of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine.

Lemon Extract Reduces Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Expression and Activity and Increases Insulin Sensitivity and Lipolysis in Mouse Adipocytes

Obesity is associated with insulin resistance and cardiovascular complications. In this paper, we examine the possible beneficial role of lemon juice in dieting. Lemon extract (LE) has been proposed to improve serum insulin levels and decrease angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity in mouse models. ACE is also a biomarker for sustained weight loss and ACE inhibitors improve insulin sensitivity in humans. Here, we show that LE impacts adipose tissue metabolism directly. In 3T3-L1 differentiated adipocyte cells, LE improved insulin sensitivity as evidenced by a 3.74 ± 0.54-fold increase in both pAKT and GLUT4 levels. LE also induced lipolysis as demonstrated by a 16.6 ± 1.2 fold-change in pHSL protein expression levels. ACE gene expression increased 12.0 ± 0.1 fold during differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells in the absence of LE, and treatment with LE decreased ACE gene expression by 80.1 ± 0.5% and protein expression by 55 ± 0.37%. We conclude that LE's reduction of ACE expression causes increased insulin sensitivity and breakdown of lipids in adipocytes.

Synthesis of novel feruloyl dipeptides with proapoptotic potential against different cancer cell lines

In this study, a series of novel N-feruloyl dipeptides (10-17) have been synthesized through the coupling of N-feruloyl amino acids (6-9) with glycine/alanine methyl ester hydrochloride. Structures of the peptides were assigned using 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS. According to initial in vitro cytotoxic screening against the cervix carcinoma cell line KB-3-1, aromatic dipeptides (12, 13, 16, 17) were the most potent ones among all tested feruloyl dipeptides. Accordingly, these peptides were further intensively investigated as potential anticancer agents against a panel of ten cancer cell lines from different tissue origin. Based on that, compound 17 showed the strongest cytotoxic efficiency towards the whole panel of tested cell lines with IC₅₀ values from 2.1 to 7.9 μM. By contrast, the dipeptides 12, 13 and 16 showed moderate to weak cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ 16.1-28.3 or >30, 5.7-21.9 and 3.9-21.2 or ≥30 μM, respectively). Mechanistically, compound 17 induced a strong dissipation of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential and an early activation of caspase 3/7 in the triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. In an in vivo model, compound 17 inhibited growth, proliferation and induced apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 xenografted onto the chick chorioallantoic membrane. All the synthesized compounds were also tested against a set of pathogenic bacterial strains, displaying no potential activity.

Emerging species with nutraceutical properties: Bioactive compounds from Hovenia dulcis pseudofruits

Hovenia dulcis Thunberg is widely distributed in East Asia, where it is well known as a food, but it is rarely consumed in Western countries. Information about its composition is scarce and focused on southern hemisphere genotypes. In the present research, the main bioactive compounds of H. dulcis pseudofruits were characterised using phytochemical analysis (HPLC fingerprint) to improve knowledge about this plant and support development of potential food applications. These preliminary results showed high levels of catechins (157.18 ± 34.34 mg/100 g_FW) and other phenolic compounds responsible for antioxidant properties. Concentrations of ferulic acid were particularly high (9.66 ± 1.76 mg/100 g_FW) and further studies would advance exploitation of this plant-food.

Adipose tissue as a possible therapeutic target for polyphenols: A case for Cyclopia extracts as anti-obesity nutraceuticals

Obesity is a significant contributor to increased morbidity and premature mortality due to increasing the risk of many chronic metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Lifestyle modifications such as energy restriction and increased physical activity are highly effective first-line treatment strategies used in the management of obesity. However, adherence to these behavioral changes is poor, with an increased reliance on synthetic drugs, which unfortunately are plagued by adverse effects. The identification of new and safer anti-obesity agents is thus of significant interest. In recent years, plants and their phenolic constituents have attracted increased attention due to their health-promoting properties. Amongst these, Cyclopia, an endemic South African plant commonly consumed as a herbal tea (honeybush), has been shown to possess modulating properties against oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and obesity. Likewise, several studies have reported that some of the major phenolic compounds present in Cyclopia spp. exhibit anti-obesity effects, particularly by targeting adipose tissue. These phenolic compounds belong to the xanthone, flavonoid and benzophenone classes. The aim of this review is to assess the potential of Cyclopia extracts as an anti-obesity nutraceutical as underpinned by in vitro and in vivo studies and the underlying cellular mechanisms and biological pathways regulated by their phenolic compounds.

Wheat Flour, Enriched with γ-Oryzanol, Phytosterol, and Ferulic Acid, Alleviates Lipid and Glucose Metabolism in High-Fat-Fructose-Fed Rats

(1) Background: Modern dietary patterns with a high intake of fat and fructose, as well as refined carbohydrates, closely relate to lipid/glucose metabolic disorders. The main objective of this study is to provide new thoughts in designing functional food with some lipid/glucose metabolism regulating effects for obese people. (2) Methods: The alleviating abilities of γ-oryzanol, phytosterol or ferulic acid-enriched wheat flour on lipid/glucose metabolic dysfunction were evaluated in male SD rats induced by a high-fat-fructose diet. The underlying mechanisms were clarified using western blot. (3) Results: In an in vitro cell model, γ-oryzanol, phytosterol and ferulic acid regulate lipid/glucose metabolism by increasing the phosphorylation of AMPK and Akt, and PI3K expression, as well as decreasing expressions of DGAT1 and SCD. The in vivo study shows that ferulic acid and γ-oryzanol-enriched flours are beneficial for managing body weight, improving glucose metabolism, hyperlipidemia and hepatic lipid accumulation. Phytosterol-enriched flour exerted remarkable effects in regulating hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance and hyperuricemia. Western blot analysis of proteins from liver samples reveals that these enriched flours alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation and insulin resistance through their elevation in the phosphorylation of AMPK and Akt. (4) Conclusions: Our study indicates that these enriched flours can serve as a health-promoting functional food to regulate obesity-related lipid/glucose metabolic dysfunction in rats.

Quinoa Secondary Metabolites and Their Biological Activities or Functions

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) was known as the "golden grain" by the native Andean people in South America, and has been a source of valuable food over thousands of years. It can produce a variety of secondary metabolites with broad spectra of bioactivities. At least 193 secondary metabolites from quinoa have been identified in the past 40 years. They mainly include phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, and nitrogen-containing compounds. These metabolites exhibit many physiological functions, such as insecticidal, molluscicidal and antimicrobial activities, as well as various kinds of biological activities such as antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. This review focuses on our knowledge of the structures, biological activities and functions of quinoa secondary metabolites. Biosynthesis, development and utilization of the secondary metabolites especially from quinoa bran were prospected.

In ovo injection of flavanone on bone quality characteristics, biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzyme status of blood in daily chicks

In ovo injection (IOI) of Naringin (N), flavanone was examined on post-hatch blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant status and bone characteristics. Fertile eggs (n = 700) were distributed in seven groups with 100 eggs. On 14th and 17.5th days of incubation, four groups were injected using 15 or 30 mg active ingredient levels of naringin/0.5 ml saline/egg, low and high level, into amnion sac. Controls include sham (injected normal saline, 0.5 ml/egg on day 14 and 17.5th) and un-injected group. IOI of high naringin and saline on 14th day of incubation resulted in lower hatchability and then higher mortality in last week of embryonic life. On day hatch, high levels of injected groups more body weight compared to the control. Chick length was increased at high levels of naringin on day 17.5th compared to control and saline injected. Quality traits of bones were improved in naringin-injected groups compared to control. IOI of naringin influenced thyroid hormones on 14th day of incubation. Naringin groups influenced the Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Calcium (Ca), superoxide dismutase (SOD), blood biochemical and lipids. Totally, amniotic IOI of naringin in last days of developing embryo may be useful for hatched chick, development of leg long bone or effect on biochemical metabolites by levels of flavanone that it needs more research.

Hesperetin is a potent bioactivator that activates SIRT1-AMPK signaling pathway in HepG2 cells

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a deacetylase enzyme that plays crucial roles in controlling many cellular processes and its downregulation has been implicated in different metabolic disorders. Recently, several polyphenols have been considered as the effective therapeutic approaches that appear to influence SIRT1. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of hesperetin, a citrus polyphenolic flavonoid, on SIRT1 and AMP-activated kinase (AMPK). HepG2 cells were treated with hesperetin in the presence or absence of EX-527, a SIRT1 specific inhibitor, for 24 h. Resveratrol was used as a positive control. SIRT1 gene expression, protein level, and activity were measured by RT-PCR, Western blotting, and fluorometric assay, respectively. AMPK phosphorylation was also determined by Western blotting. Our results indicated a significant increase in SIRT1 protein level and activity as well as an induction of AMPK phosphorylation by hesperetin. These effects of hesperetin were abolished by EX-527. Furthermore, hesperetin reversed the EX-527 inhibitory effects on SIRT1 protein expression and AMPK phosphorylation. These findings suggest that hesperetin can be a novel SIRT1 activator, even stronger than resveratrol. Therefore, the current study may introduce hesperetin as a new strategy aimed at upregulation SIRT1-AMPK pathway resulting in various cellular processes regulation.

Optimal Dietary Ferulic Acid for Suppressing the Obesity-Related Disorders in Leptin-Deficient Obese C57BL/6J -ob/ob Mice

Ferulic acid (FA) is a major polyphenolic compound and has been shown to improve the glucose and lipid homeostasis in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Here, we found the optimal level of dietary FA to ameliorate obesity and obesity-correlated disorders, and identified the responses of gut microbiota to dietary FA in genetic leptin-deficient obese ( ob/ob) mice. The ob/ob mice exhibited persistent higher body weights, feed efficiency, white adipose tissue weights, and hepatic lipid accumulation, compared to those of the wild-type mice. However, 0.5% dietary FA suppressed these symptoms in ob/ob mice. The diversity of gut microbiota and the total abundance of obesity- and anti-obesity-related genera were not influenced after FA intervention in ob/ob mice. These data suggest that sufficient intake of FA (0.5%) could be useful for treating obesity or obesity-related diseases, and this weight-control effect is possibly not correlated with the gut-brain axis.