Enhanced anti-inflammatory effect of resveratrol and EPA in treated endotoxin-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages

The Effects of Resveratrol on Silica-Induced Lung Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Rat

Background

Chronic exposure to silica is related with the provocation of an inflammatory response and oxidative stress mechanism. Vitamin D has multiple benefits in biological activities particularly respiratory system disease.

Method

In this research, 20 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups (5 rats /group) as follow: Group1 received saline as (negative control) group. The group 2 received a single IT instillation of silica (positive control) group; the group 3 was co-administrated with single IT silica and Vitamin D (20 mg/kg/day) daily for a period of 90 days. The rats of group 4 received Vitamin D daily for a period of 90 days.

Results

Silica significantly increased serum and lung total Oxidant Status (TOS). Meanwhile, silica reduced serum and lung total antioxidant capacity (TAC), GSH and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-a). Vitamin D treatment meaningfully reversed oxidative stress, antioxidants status and inflammatory response. Also, Vitamin D improved histopathological changes caused by silica.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that Vitamin D exerts protective effects against silica-induced lung injury. It seems that Vitamin D has potential use as a therapeutic object for silica induced lung injure.

Resveratrol and ω-3 PUFAs Promote Human Macrophage Differentiation and Function

Monocytes differentiate into M1 and M2 macrophages, which are classically activated by microbial products such as LPS or IFN-γ and interleukins (e.g., the anti-inflammatory and T_h2 promoting IL-4), respectively. The contribution of nutrients or nutrient-based substances such as ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) and resveratrol (Res) on the differentiation and function of M1 and M2 macrophages was evaluated. THP-1 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were differentiated into M1 and M2 cells and activated with LPS/IFN-γ or IL-4/IL-13. Macrophage lineage specific surface determinants (e.g., CD11b, CD11c, CD14, CD206, CD209, CD274, HLA-DR, CCR7, CCR2) were analysed by cytofluorometry. Res and ω-3 PUFAs altered CD14, CD206, CD274 and HL-DR surface expression patterns in M1 and M2 macrophages differentiated from PBMC. LPS/IFN-γ or IL-14/IL-13 activated macrophages subpopulations, which secreted cytokines and chemokines as measured by multiplex ELISA. Res and ω-3 PUFA reduced IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, CXCL10/IP-10, CCL13/MCP-4 and CCL20/MIP-3α in LPS/IFN-γ activated human leukaemia THP-1 cells, which is indicative of a dampening effect on M1 macrophages. However, Res increased M1 prototypic cytokines such as IL-1β or IL-6 in macrophages derived from PBMCs and also modified the expression of IL-12p70. Collectively, Res and ω-3 PUFAs distinctly promoted the differentiation and function of M1 and M2 macrophages. We conclude that these substances strengthen the macrophage-mediated effects on the innate and adaptive immune response.

Progress in the Application of Drugs for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which gives rise to focal lesion in CNS and cause physical disorders. Although environmental factors and susceptibility genes are reported to play a role in the pathogenesis of MS, its etiology still remains unclear. At present, there is no complete cure, but there are drugs that decelerate the progression of MS. Traditional therapies are disease-modifying drugs that control disease severity. MS drugs that are currently marketed mainly aim at the immune system; however, increasing attention is being paid to the development of new treatment strategies targeting the CNS. Further, the number of neuroprotective drugs is presently undergoing clinical trials and may prove useful for the improvement of neuronal function and survival. In this review, we have summarized the recent application of drugs used in MS treatment, mainly introducing new drugs with immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, or regenerative properties and their possible treatment strategies for MS. Additionally, we have presented Food and Drug Administration-approved MS treatment drugs and their administration methods, mechanisms of action, safety, and effectiveness, thereby evaluating their treatment efficacy.

Polyphenols and Fish Oils for Improving Metabolic Health: A Revision of the Recent Evidence for Their Combined Nutraceutical Effects

Polyphenols and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish oils, i.e., eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, are well-recognized nutraceuticals, and their single antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have been demonstrated in several studies found in the literature. It has been reported that the combination of these nutraceuticals can lead to three-fold increases in glutathione peroxidase activity, two-fold increases in plasma antioxidant capacity, decreases of 50-100% in lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, and urinary 8-isoprotanes, as well as 50-200% attenuation of common inflammation biomarkers, among other effects, as compared to their individual capacities. Therefore, the adequate combination of those bioactive food compounds and their single properties should offer a powerful tool for the design of successfully nutritional interventions for the prevention and palliation of a plethora of human metabolic diseases, frequently diet-induced, whose etiology and progression are characterized by redox homeostasis disturbances and a low-grade of chronic inflammation. However, the certain mechanisms behind their biological activities, in vivo interaction (both between them and other food compounds), and their optimal doses and consumption are not well-known yet. Therefore, we review here the recent evidence accumulated during the last decade about the cooperative action between polyphenols and fish oils against diet-related metabolic alterations, focusing on the mechanisms and pathways described and the effects reported. The final objective is to provide useful information for strategies for personalized nutrition based on these nutraceuticals.

Transcriptome Analysis of Juvenile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Blood, Fed With Different Concentrations of Resveratrol

Oreochromis niloticus (genetically improved farmed tilapia, GIFT) often bites the root of Polygonum cuspidatum when it is used as a floating bed, and resveratrol (RES) is mainly accumulated in the root of P. cuspidatum. Blood acts as a pipeline for the fish immune system. Generating blood transcriptomic resources is crucial for understanding molecular mechanisms underlying blood immune responses. In this study, we determined the effects of RES administration on blood transcriptomic response in GIFT. With increasing RES concentration, 133 (0.025 vs. 0.05 g/kg RES), 155 (0.025 vs. 0.1 g/kg RES), and 123 (0.05 vs. 0.1 g/kg RES) genes were detected as significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Three and ninety-five shared significant DEGs were found to be enriched among the three (except 0.1 g/kg RES) and four groups (0, 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 g/kg RES), respectively. To determine the relationship between mitochondrial regulation and RES supplementation, the results of RNA-Seq were analyzed and nine mitochondria-related genes (ATP synthase or mitochondrial-function-related genes) were verified. The results revealed the same expression pattern: cytochrome c isoform X2 (cox2), katanin p60 ATPase-containing subunit A1 isoform X1 (katna1), plasma membrane calcium-transporting ATPase 1-like (atp2b1) and GTP-binding protein A-like (gtpbpal) showed the highest expression in the 0.1 g/kg RES group, while NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 2 mitochondrial (nad7), ATP synthase subunit beta, mitochondrial (atpb), ATP synthase subunit alpha, mitochondrial-like (atpal), ATP synthase subunit alpha, mitochondrial (atpa) and ATP-dependent Clp protease proteolytic subunit, mitochondrial (clpp) revealed a dose-dependent expression following RES supplementation. Blood Ca²⁺-ATPase activity, and malondialdehyde, glutathione, and ATP content were significantly increased in the 0.05 (except Ca²⁺-ATPase activity), 0.1 g/kg RES group when compared with the controls. Eighty-nine shared DGEs were mainly enriched in antigen processing and presentation, cell adhesion molecules and phagosome pathways, based on the comparison between previous reported hepatic and the present blood transcriptome. Our study demonstrated that RES supplementation might improve the resistance to metabolism dysfunction via mitochondrial energy synthesis and/or the respiratory chain (e.g., ATPase).

The role of polyphenols in poultry nutrition

In the last two decades, poultry and animal industries became increasingly interested in using plant-based feed supplements, herbs and their derivatives to retain or enhance their health and productivity. These health benefits for the host mainly attributed to the secondary plant metabolites, namely polyphenols. Polyphenols are renowned for their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, despite these advantages of polyphenols, they have been characterized by poor absorption in the gut and low concentration in target cells that compromise their role as effective antioxidants. The low bioavailability of polyphenols necessitates the need for further investigations to harness their full potential in poultry farms. This review is existing evidence about the bioavailability of polyphenols and their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, detoxification properties and their impacts on poultry performance.

Allergy Modulation by N-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Fat Soluble Nutrients of the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet, containing valuable nutrients such as n-3 long chain poly-unsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) and other fat-soluble micronutrients, is known for its health promoting and anti-inflammatory effects. Its valuable elements might help in the battle against the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD), including the development of allergic diseases and other (chronic) inflammatory diseases. The fat fraction of the Mediterranean diet contains bioactive fatty acids but can also serve as a matrix to dissolve and increase the uptake of fat-soluble vitamins and phytochemicals, such as luteolin, quercetin, resveratrol and lycopene with known immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capacities. Especially n-3 LCPUFAs such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) derived from marine oils can target specific receptors or signaling cascades, act as eicosanoid precursors and/or alter membrane fluidity and lipid raft formation, hereby exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Beyond n-3 LCPUFAs, fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K1/2 have the potential to affect pro-inflammatory signaling cascades by interacting with receptors or activating/inhibiting signaling proteins or phosphorylation in immune cells (DCs, T-cells, mast cells) involved in allergic sensitization or the elicitation/effector phase of allergic reactions. Moreover, fat-soluble plant-derived phytochemicals can manipulate signaling cascades, mostly by interacting with other receptors or signaling proteins compared to those modified by fat-soluble vitamins, suggesting potential additive or synergistic actions by applying a combination of these nutrients which are all part of the regular Mediterranean diet. Research concerning the effects of phytochemicals such as polyphenols has been hampered due to their poor bio-availability. However, their solubility and uptake are improved by applying them within the dietary fat matrix. Alternatively, they can be prepared for targeted delivery by means of pharmaceutical approaches such as encapsulation within liposomes or even unique nanoparticles. This review illuminates the molecular mechanisms of action and possible immunomodulatory effects of n-3 LCPUFAs and fat-soluble micronutrients from the Mediterranean diet in allergic disease development and allergic inflammation. This will enable us to further appreciate how to make use of the beneficial effects of n-3 LCPUFAs, fat-soluble vitamins and a selection of phytochemicals as active biological components in allergy prevention and/or symptom reduction.

Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Fatty Acid Composition and Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1 in Adult Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

Metabolic changes in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) impair vasodilation, and this leads to tissue hypoxia and microvascular pathology. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can significantly improve the outcome of ischemic conditions in T1DM patients and reduce vascular complications. The aim of our study was to assess the effects of HBOT on plasma fatty acid (FA) composition, and expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) in T1DM patients.

METHODS

Our study included 24 adult T1DM patients diagnosed with peripheral vascular complications. The patients were exposed to 10 sessions of 100% oxygen inhalation at 2.4 atmosphere absolute for 1 hour. Blood samples were collected at admission and after HBOT for measurement of metabolic parameters, FA composition and IGFBP-1. Measurement of plasma FA composition was determined by gas chromatography. Expression of IGFBP-1 in the serum was estimated by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

HBOT decreased blood levels of total cholesterol (p<0.05), triglycerides (p<0.05) and low-density lipoprotein (p<0.05). HBOT increased plasma levels of individual FAs: palmitic acid (p<0.05), palmitoleic acid (p<0.05), docosapentaenoic acid (p<0.05) and docosahexaenoic acid (p<0.01), and decreased levels of stearic acid (p<0.05), alpha linolenic acid (p<0.05) and linoleic acid (p<0.01). Expression of IGFBP-1 (p<0.01) was increased, whereas the level of insulin (p<0.001) was decreased in the serum after HBOT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that HBOT exerts beneficial effects in T1DM patients by improving the lipid profile and altering FA composition.

Recent Advances on the Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Red Grape Polyphenols: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

In this review, special emphasis will be placed on red grape polyphenols for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, their capacity to inhibit major pathways responsible for activation of oxidative systems and expression and release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines will be discussed. Furthermore, regulation of immune cells by polyphenols will be illustrated with special reference to the activation of T regulatory cells which support a tolerogenic pathway at intestinal level. Additionally, the effects of red grape polyphenols will be analyzed in obesity, as a low-grade systemic inflammation. Also, possible modifications of inflammatory bowel disease biomarkers and clinical course have been studied upon polyphenol administration, either in animal models or in clinical trials. Moreover, the ability of polyphenols to cross the blood-brain barrier has been exploited to investigate their neuroprotective properties. In cancer, polyphenols seem to exert several beneficial effects, even if conflicting data are reported about their influence on T regulatory cells. Finally, the effects of polyphenols have been evaluated in experimental models of allergy and autoimmune diseases. Conclusively, red grape polyphenols are endowed with a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential but some issues, such as polyphenol bioavailability, activity of metabolites, and interaction with microbiota, deserve deeper studies.

Influence of Resveratrol on the Immune Response

Resveratrol is the most well-known polyphenolic stilbenoid, present in grapes, mulberries, peanuts, rhubarb, and in several other plants. Resveratrol can play a beneficial role in the prevention and in the progression of chronic diseases related to inflammation such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, and cancers among other conditions. Moreover, resveratrol regulates immunity by interfering with immune cell regulation, proinflammatory cytokines’ synthesis, and gene expression. At the molecular level, it targets sirtuin, adenosine monophosphate kinase, nuclear factor-κB, inflammatory cytokines, anti-oxidant enzymes along with cellular processes such as gluconeogenesis, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial biogenesis, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. Resveratrol can suppress the toll-like receptor (TLR) and pro-inflammatory genes’ expression. The antioxidant activity of resveratrol and the ability to inhibit enzymes involved in the production of eicosanoids contribute to its anti-inflammation properties. The effects of this biologically active compound on the immune system are associated with widespread health benefits for different autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. This review offers a systematic understanding of how resveratrol targets multiple inflammatory components and exerts immune-regulatory effects on immune cells.

Dietary resveratrol impairs body weight gain due to reduction of feed intake without affecting fatty acid composition in Atlantic salmon

Recent studies suggest that the use of vegetable oils at expense of fish oil in aquaculture feeds might have potential negative effects on fish redox homeostasis and adiposity. Resveratrol (RESV) is a lipid-soluble phytoalexin present in fruits and vegetables with proven in vivo antioxidant function in animals. The present study aims to assess the potential use of RESV in Atlantic salmon feeds. To this end, post-smolt salmons with an initial BW of 148±3 g were fed four experimental diets for 15 weeks. A diet low in fish oil served as a control and was supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 g/kg of RESV, respectively. The effect of the experimental diets on animal performance, tissue fatty acid composition, and the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in antioxidant signalling, lipid peroxidation, and metabolism were studied. Resveratrol significantly reduced feed intake and final BW of the salmon. Feeding RESV did not affect the sum of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids or total lipids in the fillet. While the content of total polyunsaturated fatty acids was not affected, the percentages of some fatty acids in the liver and fillet were changed by RESV. Furthermore, in liver, the relative expression of glutathione peroxidase 4b, nuclear factor-like 2, and arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase remained unchanged across treatment groups. In conclusion, the negative impact of dietary RESV on FI and hence reduction of the BW discourages its inclusion in low fish oil diets for Atlantic salmon.

Resveratrol and Montelukast Alleviate Paraquat-Induced Hepatic Injury in Mice: Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis

Paraquat (PQ) is one of the most used herbicide worldwide. Its cytotoxicity is attributed to reactive radical generation. Resveratrol (Res) and montelukast (MK) have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The protective effects of Res, MK, or their combination against PQ-induced acute liver injury have not been investigated before. Therefore, we explored the protective potential of Res and/or MK against PQ hepatic toxicity in a mouse model. Mice were randomly assigned to five groups: group I served as the normal control and group II received a single dose of PQ (50 mg/kg, i.p.). Groups III, IV, and V received PQ plus oral Res (5 mg/kg/day), MK (10 mg/kg/day), and Res/MK combination, respectively. Res and/or MK reduced PQ-induced liver injury, evidenced by normalization of serum total protein, ALT, and AST. Res and/or MK significantly reversed PQ-induced oxidative stress markers glutathione and malondialdehyde. Res and/or MK significantly reduced PQ-induced inflammation reflected in TNF-α levels. Furthermore, Res and/or MK reversed PQ-induced apoptosis assessed by differential expression of p53, Bax, and Bcl-2. Histopathologic examination supported the biochemical findings. Although Res and MK displayed antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities, their combination was not always synergistic.

Effects of dietary resveratrol supplementation on hepatic and serum pro-/anti-inflammatory activity in juvenile GIFT tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

Dietary resveratrol (RES) supplementation may have some pharmacological effects including anti-inflammation. Previous studies have shown that Kupffer cell activation and apoptosis induction increases the transcription of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pro- and anti-inflammatory activities of 0.1 or 0.3 g/kg RES as a dietary supplement in juvenile freshwater tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The results showed that hepatic and serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) significantly decreased and increased while anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines significantly increased and decreased, respectively, in the RES-treated groups. The expression of serum and hepatic IgM and anti-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-10] and its inverse inhibitor interferon (IFN)-γ significantly increased while pro-inflammatory cytokine transcription significantly decreased. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and scanning electron microscopy revealed intestinal deformation, irregular goblet cells, and apoptotic cells in the 0.3 g/kg RES groups. RES (0.3 g/kg) also induced necrosis, apoptosis, reduction in Kupffer cell number, compressed sinusoids, and deformation of epidermal cells in the liver of the treated groups. In conclusion, the results of the present study show that high doses of RES were absorbed in the gut and then damaged the liver and intestinal tissue.

IBD: In Food We Trust

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Both science and patients associate diet with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. There is no doubt that links between IBD and diet are numerous, based on both epidemiological studies and experimental studies. However, scientific evidence to support dietary advice is currently lacking, and dietary counselling for IBD patients is often limited in clinical practice to the improvement of nutrient intake. This review aimed to focus on both patient's beliefs about and molecular mechanisms for crosstalk between nutrients and inflammation.

METHODS

A literature search using PubMed was performed to identify relevant studies on diet and/or nutrients and their role in IBD. Pubmed [from inception to January 20, 2016] was searched using the terms: 'Crohn', 'colitis',' intestinal epithelial cells', and a list of terms relating to diet or numerous specific nutrients. Terms associated with nutrients were individually tested in the context of IBD. Reference lists from studies selected were manually searched to identify further relevant reports. Manuscripts about diet in the context of IBD from basic science, epidemiological studies, or clinical trials were selected and reviewed. Only articles published in English were included.

RESULTS

Epidemiological studies highlight the key role of diet in IBD development, and many IBD patients report diet as a triggering factor in relapse of disease. In addition, we present research on the impact of nutrients on innate immunity.

CONCLUSION

Diet may offer an alternative approach to restoring deficient innate immunity in IBD, and this may be the scientific rationale for providing dietary counselling for IBD patients.

Challenges in Analyzing the Biological Effects of Resveratrol

The suggested health effects (e.g., disease prevention) of dietary bioactive compounds such as resveratrol are challenging to prove in comparison to man-made drugs developed for therapeutic purposes. Dietary bioactive compounds have multiple cellular targets and therefore have a variety of biological effects. Extrapolating the biological effects of dietary compounds from in vitro and in vivo animal experiments to humans may lead to over- or under-estimation of the effect and role of these compounds. The present paper will discuss a few of these challenges and suggest directions for future research. Questions we address include: (1) Is the combinatorial effect of resveratrol and other compounds real? (2) What are the real and relevant doses of resveratrol after administration? and (3) Is it possible to estimate the preventive effect of resveratrol by clinical trials using standard experimental designs? The examples concerning resveratrol taken from the scientific literature are mainly from 2010 and later. The challenges pointed out in this review are similar to most naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

Enhanced anti-inflammatory effects of DHA and quercetin in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 macrophages by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK activation

The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) + quercetin (QE) used in combination. DHA and QE are natural compounds derived from various foods and have been demonstrated to exert anti‑inflammatory effects The protein mRNA expression involved in the nuclear factor (NF)-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway was analyzed by western blot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction methods respectively, other cytokines were detected by an enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay kit. The results of the present study demonstrated that combined treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑stimulated RAW264.7 cells with DHA + QE decreased the levels of pro‑inflammatory mediators to a greater extent than QE or DHA alone. Additionally, DHA + QE synergistically suppressed nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2 and cyclooxygenase-2 levels. Molecular‑level studies indicated that the DHA + QE combination can significantly inhibit the mRNA expression of NF‑κB subunits p50 and p65, extracellular signal‑regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and c‑JUN N‑terminal kinase (JNK) 1/2, which suggests that the NF‑κB signalling pathway is involved in the synergistic effects observed. Furthermore, western blot analysis demonstrated that DHA + QE synergistically inhibit the phosphorylation of p50, p65, ERK1/2 and JNK1/2. This finding indicates that the enhanced anti‑inflammatory effects of the combined compounds are achieved by suppressing NF‑κB and MAPK signalling in LPS‑stimulated RAW264.7 cells. The results of the present study suggest that DHA and QE in combination may be utilized as potent anti‑inflammatory compounds, with potential preventative or palliative effects on obesity, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

ω-3 PUFAs and Resveratrol Differently Modulate Acute and Chronic Inflammatory Processes

ω-3 PUFAs and polyphenols have multiple effects on inflammation in vivo and in vitro. The effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and resveratrol (RV) were investigated in LPS-stimulated peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) (i.e., acute inflammation) and IL-1β activated human chondrocytes (i.e., chronic inflammation). Inflammatory mediators including chemokines, cytokines, interleukins, and PGE₂ were measured by multiplex analysis and gene expression was quantified by RT-PCR. In PBLs, RV decreased the secretion of PGE₂, CCL5/RANTES, and CXCL8/IL-8 but increased IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10. In contrast to RV, ω-3 PUFAs augmented the production of PGE₂ and CXCL8/IL-8. EPA and DHA similarly affected the pattern of inflammatory mediators. Combination of RV and ω-3 PUFAs exerted synergistic effects on CCL5/RANTES and had additive effects on IL-6 or CXCL8/IL-8. Both ω-3 PUFAs and RV reduced catabolic gene expression (e.g., MMPs, ADAMTS-4, IL-1β, and IL-6) in activated chondrocytes. The data suggest that ω-3 PUFAs and RV differ in the regulation of acute inflammation of peripheral blood leukocytes but have common properties in modulating features related to chronic inflammation of chondrocytes.

Resveratrol counteracts inflammation in human M1 and M2 macrophages upon challenge with 7-oxo-cholesterol: potential therapeutic implications in atherosclerosis

Macrophages consist of two main subsets: the proinflammatory M1 subset and the anti-inflammatory M2 one. 7-oxo-cholesterol, the most abundant cholesterol autoxidation product within atherosclerotic plaque, is able to skew the M1/M2 balance towards a proinflammatory profile. In the present study, we explored the ability of the polyphenolic compound resveratrol to counteract the 7-oxo-cholesterol-triggered proinflammatory signaling in macrophages. Resveratrol-pretreated human monocyte-derived M1 and M2 macrophages were challenged with 7-oxo-cholesterol and analyzed for phenotype and endocytic ability by flow cytometry, for metalloproteinase- (MMP-) 2 and MMP-9 by gelatin zymography, and for cytokine, chemokine, and growth factor secretome by a multiplex immunoassay. We also investigated the NF-κB signaling pathway. In the M1 subset, resveratrol prevented the downregulation of CD16 and the upregulation of MMP-2 in response to 7-oxo-cholesterol, whereas in M2 macrophages it prevented the upregulation of CD14, MMP-2, and MMP-9 and the downregulation of endocytosis. Resveratrol prevented the upregulation of several proinflammatory and proangiogenic molecules in both subsets. We identified modulation of NF-κB as a potential mechanism implicated in 7-oxo-cholesterol and resveratrol effects. Our results strengthen previous findings on the immunomodulatory ability of resveratrol and highlight its role as potential therapeutic or preventive compound, to counteract the proatherogenic oxysterol signaling within atherosclerotic plaque.

Diets naturally rich in polyphenols improve fasting and postprandial dyslipidemia and reduce oxidative stress: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) concentration is a recognized independent cardiovascular disease risk factor. Diet is the natural approach for these postprandial alterations. Dietary polyphenols and long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn3s) are associated with a lower cardiovascular disease risk.

OBJECTIVE

This randomized controlled study evaluated, in persons with a high risk of cardiovascular disease, the effects of diets naturally rich in polyphenols and/or marine LCn3s on plasma TRLs and urinary 8-isoprostane concentrations, a biomarker of oxidative stress.

DESIGN

According to a 2 × 2 factorial design, 86 overweight/obese individuals with a large waist circumference and any other component of the metabolic syndrome were randomly assigned to an isoenergetic diet 1) poor in LCn3s and polyphenols, 2) rich in LCn3s, 3) rich in polyphenols, or 4) rich in LCn3s and polyphenols. The diets were similar in all other components. Before and after the 8-wk intervention, fasting and postmeal TRLs and 8-isoprostane concentrations in 24-h urine samples were measured.

RESULTS

Dietary adherence was good in all participants. Polyphenols significantly reduced fasting triglyceride concentrations (2-factor ANOVA) in plasma (P = 0.023) and large very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) (P = 0.016) and postprandial triglyceride total area under the curve in plasma (P = 0.041) and large VLDLs (P = 0.004). LCn3s reduced postprandial chylomicron cholesterol and VLDL apolipoprotein B-48. The concentrations of urinary 8-isoprostane decreased significantly with the polyphenol-rich diets. Lipoprotein changes induced by the intervention significantly correlated with changes in 8-isoprostane.

CONCLUSIONS

Diets naturally rich in polyphenols positively influence fasting and postprandial TRLs and reduce oxidative stress. Marine LCn3s reduce TRLs of exogenous origin. Through their effects on postprandial lipemia and oxidative stress, polyphenols may favorably affect cardiovascular disease risk.

Interactions between prebiotics, probiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols: diet or supplementation for metabolic syndrome prevention?

The metabolic syndrome can be prevented by the Mediterranean diet, characterized by fiber, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols. However, the composition of the Mediterranean diet, which can be viewed as a natural multiple supplement, is poorly controlled, and its beneficial effects poorly predictable. The metabolic syndrome is associated with intestinal dysbiosis and the gut microbioma seems to be the main target and player in the interactions occurring between probiotics, prebiotics, omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and polyphenols. From the reviewed evidence, it is reasonable to manage growth and metabolism of gut microflora with specific prebiotics and polyphenols. Even though the healthy properties of functional foods and nutraceuticals still need to be fully elucidated, available data suggest that well-designed supplements, containing the better ratio of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, specific probiotic strains, and selected polyphenols and prebiotics, could be useful in metabolic syndrome prevention and treatment.

Dietary supplementation with resveratrol and/or docosahexaenoic acid alters hippocampal gene expression in adult C57Bl/6 mice

The hippocampus is an important brain structure for multiple cognitive functions, including memory formation. It is particularly sensitive to insults, such as stress, ischemia, and aging; all of these can affect hippocampal and therefore cognitive function. To understand the potential of diet for the preservation of hippocampal function, we investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with resveratrol (RES) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), or their combination, on hippocampal gene expression in adult C57BL/6 mice. Animals in the supplemented group received either 50 mg/kg/day of RES or DHA, while the combination group received 50 mg/kg/day of each supplement. Dietary supplements were mixed with the AIN93G diet, and supplementation lasted 6 weeks. The control group received AIN93G diet alone for the same period. At the end of the experiment, the hippocampi were processed for genome-wide gene expression and pathway analyses. Most of the genes that were significantly altered were associated with inflammatory responses as determined by pathway analysis. RES-supplemented animals showed decreased expression of IL-6 (P=.001), MAPKapk2 (P=.015), and increased expression for PI3KR2 (P=.034) and Wnt7a (P=.004) expression. DHA-supplemented animals showed a decreased IL-6 (P=.003) and an increased Wnt7a (P=.003) expression. Animals on the combination diet showed a decreased IL-6 (P=.005) and Apolipoprotien E (ApoE) (P=.035) expression. Our findings demonstrate that hippocampal gene expression is significantly altered by all three dietary supplementation regimes. Moreover, our analysis indicates that RES and DHA likely exert their beneficial effects through antiinflammatory mechanisms.

Resveratrol and fish oil reduce catecholamine-induced mortality in obese rats: role of oxidative stress in the myocardium and aorta

The exact mechanisms of the relationship between obesity and cardiovascular events are not yet fully understood; however, oxidative stress may be involved. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of resveratrol and fish oil on catecholamine-induced mortality in obese rats. To begin with, rats were divided into five groups: (1) lean, (2) obese, (3) obese supplemented with resveratrol, (4) obese supplemented with fish oil and (5) obese supplemented with resveratrol and fish oil (n 18 rats per group), for 2 months. After supplementation, the groups were subdivided as with (n 10) and without (n 8) cardiovascular catecholaminergic stress after isoproterenol (60 mg/kg) injection. At 24 h later, the survival rate was analysed. The obese group showed lower survival rates (10 %) when compared with the lean group (70 %). On the other hand, resveratrol (50 %) and fish oil (40 %) increased the survival rate of obese rats (χ(2) test, P= 0·019). Biochemical analyses of the myocardium and aorta revealed that obese rats had higher levels of superoxide and oxidative damage to lipids and protein. This was associated with reduced superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity in both the myocardium and aorta. The supplementation increased antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced oxidative damage. We also evaluated the nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 antioxidant pathway. Nrf2 protein levels that were reduced in obese rats were increased by the antioxidant treatment. Taken together, these results showed that resveratrol and fish oil reduce catecholamine-induced mortality in obese rats, partly through the reduction of oxidative stress.

Procyanidins and inflammation: molecular targets and health implications

The inflammatory response has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Thus, the modulation of the inflammatory response by the consumption of bioactive food compounds, such as procyanidins, is a powerful tool to promote health. Procyanidin-mediated anti-inflammatory molecular mechanisms include, among others, the modulation of the arachidonic acid pathway, the inhibition of the gene transcription, protein expression and enzymatic activity of eicosanoid generating enzymes, the production and secretion of inflammatory mediators (such as cytokines and nitric oxide), the inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation, and the modulation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. The NF-κB pathway can be regulated by procyanidins at several levels. During early events in NF-κB signaling, procyanidins modulate Iκκ activity, and the cytoplasmic retention of p65:p50 NF-κB by the inhibition of IκB phosphorylation and proteasomal degradation, while at late stages, they affect the nuclear translocation of pro/anti-inflammatory NF-κB homo/hetero dimers and their subsequent binding to the promoter regions of target genes. To identify and understand the value of procyanidins in the modulation of the inflammatory response, the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory activities and prohomeostatic effects of procyanidins need to be investigated further.