Lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin content of eggs laid by hens supplemented with free and esterified xanthophylls

Design, synthesis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies of some 3-methoxy flavone derivatives as an anti-breast cancer agent

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to synthesize flavone hybrids with 3-methoxy substitution and an N-heterocyclic ring at the 4' position of the flavone B ring and test their effectiveness against cancer.

METHOD

Molecular docking of 3-methoxy flavone was studied on ER-α and EGFR. By cyclizing chalcones, various flavonol derivatives were synthesized and 3-methoxy flavones were produced by flavonol methylation. 3-methoxy flavone derivatives substituted with various heterocyclic rings like morpholine, piperidine, N-methyl piperazine, pyrrolidine, triazole, imidazole, and benzimidazole were synthesized. 1HNMR, 13CNMR, IR, and mass spectra verified all compound's structures. 3-methoxy flavone derivatives evaluated for their anticancer potential by MTT assay and SRB assay on breast cancer (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). The molecular dynamics simulation was also studied for active compounds on the human estrogen receptor alpha and epidermal growth factor receptor.

RESULTS

3-methoxy flavone derivatives were successfully synthesized and evaluated by spectroscopic studies. The MTT assay on MCF-7 cell lines revealed significant cytotoxic activity of compounds Ciii and Civ by expressing IC50 values of 13.08 ± 1.80 and 20.3 ± 1.47 µg/ml, respectively. The SRB assay on MDA-MB-231 showed a potent response by compounds Cii, Cv & Cvi with IC50 values of 5.54 ± 1.57, 5.44 ± 1.66 and 8.06 ± 1.83 µg/ml, respectively. Overall results showed the effective substitution of 3-methoxy flavone was N-methyl piperazine and piperidine in all cell lines, while triazole substitution was effective in MDA-MB-231 cells. Molecular dynamics study proved the stability of synthesized compounds' ligands-protein complexes. The structure-activity relationship of flavone derivatives suggests the electron donating group increases the anticancer activity of derivatives in MDA-MB-231, while the same is not reflected in MCF-7 cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a foundation for designing flavone derivatives with N-heterocyclic ring incorporation as anticancer medicines.

Carotenoid enrichment in eggs: From biochemistry perspective

The emergence of safe and functional eggs for consumer acceptance has gained focus. The production of carotenoid-enriched eggs has received attention due to its multifunctional biological properties. Nutritional modification of laying hens' diet can be a strategy to produce such eggs. This review presents the chemistry of carotenoids in nature and eggs, the accumulation process of carotenoids into eggs, and the functions of carotenoids in eggs. Our findings showed that carotenoids can be deposited into the egg and contribute to improving its nutritive value. The biosynthesis, chemical structure, and metabolism pathways of carotenoids lead to the deposition of carotenoids into eggs in their original or metabolized forms. Also, some factors modulate the efficiency of carotenoids in fowls before accumulation into eggs. Carotenoid-enriched eggs may be promising, ensuring the availability of highly nutritive eggs. However, further studies are still needed to comprehend the full metabolism process and the extensive functions of carotenoids in eggs.

Natural Multi-Enriched Eggs with n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Selenium, Vitamin E, and Lutein

The research investigates the possibilities of enriching eggs with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, selenium, vitamin E, and lutein. The research was carried out on 100 TETRA SL laying hens divided into two groups (C and E). Hens in treatment C (control group) were fed a standard feeding mixture that contained 5% soybean oil, 0.32 mg/kg organic selenium, 25.20 mg/kg vitamin E, and 20.5 mg/kg lutein (Marigold flower extract). Hens in treatment E (experimental group) were fed a mixture in which soybean oil was replaced by 1.5% fish oil + 1.5% rapeseed oil + 2.0% linseed oil. The content of other nutricines amounted to 0.47 mg/kg organic selenium, 125.2 mg/kg vitamin E, and 120.5 mg/kg lutein. Portions of total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in enriched eggs were significantly increased when compared to conventional eggs (480.65:204.58 mg/100 g; p < 0.001). The content of selenium, vitamin E, and lutein was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in enriched eggs than in conventional eggs. The content of selenium in egg albumen was increased by 1.81 times, and in the yolk, it was increased by 1.18 times. At the same time, the content of vitamin E was 2.74 times higher, and lutein was 8.94 times higher in enriched eggs than in conventional eggs.

Synthesis and Characterization of Molybdenum Oxide Nanoparticles by Green Method Useful in Antifungal Applications Against Colletotrichum Gloeosporioides

In the present study, the synthesis of molybdenum oxide nanoparticles is done by the reduction of Ammonium molybdate with the extract from the leaves of Citrus sinensis. The optical studies like Fourier Transform Infrared studies and UV-vis-NIR gives insight on the details of presence of functional groups and absorption of light. The X ray diffraction studies reveal its crystallinity and its particle size have been calculated. The zeta potential, which is used to characterize the metal nanoparticles, has been studied. The antifungal property of the nanoparticles has been studied and a plot for disease index has been discussed. This natural method of synthesizing the molybdenum oxide nanoparticles can find numerous applications in biophysics.

Comparison of the carotenoid profiles of commonly consumed smear-ripened cheeses

The objective of this study was to identify the carotenoids imparting the orange colour to the rind, and pale yellow color to the core, of selected smear-ripened cheeses. The cheeses investigated were Charloe, Ashbrook, Taleggio, and Limburger, and were sourced from artisanal markets. Samples of the rind and core were extracted using non-polar solvents, followed by saponification to hydrolyze triglycerides to remove fatty acids, and to release carotenoid esters. Extracts were tested using ultra-high pressure liquid chromatograph-diode array detector-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-MS and -MS/MS), and identities of α- and β-carotene, lycopene, and β-cryptoxanthin confirmed with authentic standards. β-Carotene was the predominant species in both the rind and core, absorbing ~70% of the signal at 450 nm in all cheese extracts tested, as well as minor quantities of β-cryptoxanthin and α-carotene. Carotenoids unique to the rind included lycopene as well as the rare bacterial carotenoids previously identified in bacterial isolates of cheeses (i.e. decaprenoxanthin, sarcinaxanthin, and echinenone). This is the first detailed characterisation of carotenoids extracted directly from smear-ripened cheeses, and reveals that smear-ripened cheese can contribute both provitamin A carotenoids as well as C50 carotenoids to the human diet.

Age of Laying Hens Significantly Influences the Content of Nutritionally Vital Lipophilic Compounds in Eggs

This study aimed to comparatively analyze the carotenoids, tocopherols, fatty acids, and sterols (e.g., cholesterol) in the eggs of laying hens of early (24 weeks), intermediate (42 weeks), and late age (74 weeks), utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), and GC–mass spectrometry (MS). The results revealed the significantly (p < 0.05) highest content of nutritionally vital compounds (per g of egg yolk, fresh weight), which included (all-E-)-lutein (21.8 µg), (all-E-)-zeaxanthin (13.4 µg), α-tocopherol (76.5 µg), oleic acid (C18:1n9c; 83.3 mg), α-linolenic acid (C18:3n3; 0.68 mg), γ-linolenic acid (C18:3n6; 0.47 mg), arachidonic acid (C20:4n6; 8.11 mg), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22:6n3; 2.06 mg), and total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs; 94.7 mg) and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs; 2.74 mg) in the eggs of early-age laying hens compared to intermediate and late-age. Surprisingly, cholesterol was not significantly different in the eggs obtained from the different age groups. In contrast, the fat quality indices, including the lowest atherogenic index (AI) and thrombogenic index (TI) values and high hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) fatty acid ratio, indicated the health-beneficial potential associated with fat intake from the eggs of intermediate and late-age laying hens. Overall, the results of the present investigation suggest that eggs from early-age laying hens can be recommended for a higher intake of antioxidant carotenoids and tocopherols, while the eggs from intermediate and late-age hens can be recommended for the intake of good quality fats.

A Brief Overview of Dietary Zeaxanthin Occurrence and Bioaccessibility

As it exhibits no provitamin A activity, the dietary intake of zeaxanthin is not considered essential. However, its contribution to ocular health has long been acknowledged. Numerous publications emphasize the importance of zeaxanthin alongside lutein in ocular diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration which constitute an important health concern, especially among the elderly. Considering that the average dietary ratio of lutein to zeaxanthin favors the first, more bioaccessible food sources of zeaxanthin that can hinder the development and progression of the above-mentioned disorders are of great interest. In this paper, a brief overview of the more recent state of knowledge as regards dietary sources together with their respective zeaxanthin bioaccessibility assessed through a standardized in vitro digestion method was provided.

The Impact of Formulation on Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and meso-Zeaxanthin Bioavailability: A Randomised Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study

Lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z), and meso-zeaxanthin (MZ) have been the focus of research and commercial interest for their applications in human health. Research into formulations to enhance their bioavailability is merited. This 6 month randomised placebo-controlled trial involving 81 healthy volunteers compared the bioavailability of different formulations of free L, Z, and MZ in sunflower or omega-3 oil versus L, Z, and MZ diacetates (Ld, Zd, and MZd) in a micromicellar formulation. Fasting serum carotenoids, macular pigment, and skin carotenoid score were analysed at baseline and 6 months. Serum L, Z, and MZ concentrations increased in all active interventions compared to placebo (p < 0.001 to p = 0.008). The diacetate micromicelle formulation exhibited a significantly higher mean response in serum concentrations of Z and MZ compared to the other active interventions (p = 0.002 to 0.019). A micromicellar formulation with solubilised Z and MZ diacetates is a promising technology advancement that enhances the bioavailability of these carotenoids when compared to traditional carotenoid formulations (ISRCTN clinical trial registration number: ISRCTN18206561).

Penetratin-modified lutein nanoemulsion in-situ gel for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration

Background: Lutein is the primary macular pigment with an favorable effect on the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the poor water solubility of lutein hinders its absorption and delivery. In this study, a penetratin-modified lutein nanoemulsion in-situ gel (GEL) was prepared for the treatment of AMD.Methods: A nanoemulsion (NE) was prepared and modified with penetratin (P-NE) to improve the penetration. The effect of penetratin was evaluated by cell uptake and intraocular distribution assays. A dry AMD model was induced using NaIO₃, and the therapeutic effect was evaluated by electroretinography, the number of apoptosis cells and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level.Results: Lutein showed a good ability to protect ARPE-19 from the damage of H₂O₂ and the uptake rate of P-NE was significantly higher than NE. In the efficacy experiments, the structure of retina was significantly improved after treatment, the apoptosis rate decreased from 31.98% to 2.05%, and the level of ROS was significantly decreased (p < 0.0001).Conclusions: With the aid of penetratin, lutein could be delivered to the retina effectively. The P-NE GEL could evidently inhibit the apoptosis and ROS, demonstrating that the P-NE GEL has a good application prospect in the treatment of AMD.

Encapsulation of Lutein in Nanoemulsions Stabilized by Resveratrol and Maillard Conjugates

Lutein is incorporated into foods as a natural yellow pigment and nutraceutical. The introduction of lutein into many foods and beverages, however, is problematic because of its strong hydrophobicity and poor chemical stability. In this research, lutein-loaded nanoemulsions were prepared to overcome this problem. Casein-dextran Maillard conjugates or physical complexes were utilized as emulsifiers, while either medium chain triglycerides (MCT) or grape seed oil (GSO) were used as carrier oils. The impact of resveratrol addition on nanoemulsion stability was also examined. The influence of storage temperature, pH, and CaCl₂ concentration on the chemical and physical stability of the nanoemulsions was measured. The casein-dextran conjugates were highly effective at improving the physical resistance of the nanoemulsions to environmental stresses, but had a detrimental effect on their color stability. Conversely, nanoemulsions prepared from casein-dextran physical complexes were unstable around the protein's isoelectric point (pH 4.6), as well as upon addition of CaCl₂ . Incorporation of resveratrol and GSO into the nanoemulsions decreased lutein degradation and color fading at all temperatures. This study shows that casein-dextran conjugates are highly effective at improving the physical stability of lutein-loaded nanoemulsions, while resveratrol and GSO are effective at improving their chemical stability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Lutein can be used by the food industry to create "clean label" and functional food products. The major challenges in incorporating lutein in foods are its poor chemical stability and its high hydrophobicity, which makes it difficult to incorporate. Emulsion-based delivery systems assembled from natural ingredients may address these challenges. In this study, the impact of Maillard conjugates fabricated from caseinate and dextran, as well as resveratrol addition, on the formation and stability of lutein-enriched nanoemulsions was determined. The information obtained from this study will help the formulation of more effective functional foods and beverage products.

Analysis of Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Meso-Zeaxanthin in the Organs of Carotenoid-Supplemented Chickens

The macular carotenoids (i.e., lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z) and meso-zeaxanthin (MZ)) exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and optical properties that are believed to support human health and function. Studying the accumulation and distribution of these nutrients in tissues and organs, in addition to the eye, is an important step in understanding how these nutrients might support global human function and health (e.g., heart and brain). Chicken is an appropriate animal model with which to study the accumulation of these carotenoids in organs, as the relevant transport molecules and carotenoid binding proteins for L, Z and MZ are present in both humans and chickens. In this experiment, a sample of 3 chickens that were supplemented with L and MZ diacetate (active group) and a sample of 3 chickens that received a standard diet (control group) were analysed. Both groups were analysed for L, Z and MZ concentrations in the brain, eyes, heart, lung, duodenum/pancreas, jejunum/ileum, kidney and breast tissue. L, Z and MZ were identified in all the organs/tissues analysed from the active group. L and Z were identified in all of the organs/tissues analysed from the control group; while, MZ was identified in the eyes of these animals only. The discovery that MZ is accumulated in the tissues and organs of chickens supplemented with this carotenoid is important, given that it is known that a combination of L, Z and MZ exhibits superior antioxidant capacity when compared to any of these carotenoids in isolation.

The role of a dairy fraction rich in milk fat globule membrane in the suppression of postprandial inflammatory markers and bone turnover in obese and overweight adults: an exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Inflammation is associated with increased bone resorption; the role of inflammation in postprandial bone turnover has not been explored. Consumption of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) reduces inflammation in animal models. This study aimed to measure postprandial changes in bone turnover after intake of high saturated fat test meals, with- and without the anti-inflammatory ingredient MFGM.

METHODS

Subjects (n = 36 adults) were obese (BMI 30-39.9 kg/m2) or overweight (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m2) with two traits of Metabolic Syndrome. Subjects consumed a different test meal on four occasions at random; blood draws were taken at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 h postprandial. Test meals included whipping cream (WC), WC + MFGM, palm oil (PO) and PO + MFGM. Biomarkers of bone turnover and inflammation were analyzed from all four time points.

RESULTS

Test meal (treatment) by time interactions were significant for bone resorption marker C-telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) (p < 0.0001) and inflammatory marker interleukin 10 (IL-10) (p = 0.012). Significant differences in overall postprandial response among test meals were found for CTX and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM), with the greatest overall postprandial suppression of CTX occurring in meals containing MFGM. However, test meal by MFGM interactions were non- significant for bone and inflammatory markers. Correlations between CTX and inflammatory markers were non-significant.

CONCLUSION

This exploratory analysis advances the study of postprandial suppression of bone turnover by demonstrating differing effects of high SFA meals that contained MFGM; however MFGM alone did not directly moderate the difference in postprandial CTX response among test meals in this analysis. These observations may be useful for identifying foods and ingredients which maximize the suppression of bone resorption, and for generating hypotheses to test in future studies examining the role of inflammation in postprandial bone turnover.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01811329. Registered 11 March 2013.

Serum and macular response to carotenoid-enriched egg supplementation in human subjects: the Egg Xanthophyll Intervention clinical Trial (EXIT)

The macular carotenoids lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z) and meso-zeaxanthin (MZ) accumulate at the macula, where they are collectively referred to as macular pigment (MP). Augmentation of this pigment, typically achieved through diet and supplementation, enhances visual function and protects against progression of age-related macular degeneration. However, it is known that eggs are a rich dietary source of L and Z, in a highly bioavailable matrix. In this single-blind placebo-controlled study, L- and MZ-enriched eggs and control non-enriched eggs were fed to human subjects (mean age 41 and 35 years, respectively) over an 8-week period, and outcome measures included MP, visual function and serum concentrations of carotenoids and cholesterol. Serum carotenoid concentrations increased significantly in control and enriched egg groups, but to a significantly greater extent in the enriched egg group (P<0·001 for L, Z and MZ). There was no significant increase in MP in either study group post intervention, and we saw no significant improvement in visual performance in either group. Total cholesterol increased significantly in each group, but it did not exceed the upper limit of the normative range (6·5 mmol/l). Therefore, carotenoid-enriched eggs may represent an effective dietary source of L, Z and MZ, reflected in significantly raised serum concentrations of these carotenoids, and consequentially improved bioavailability for capture by target tissues. However, benefits in terms of MP augmentation and /or improved visual performance were not realised over the 8-week study period, and a study of greater duration will be required to address these questions.