Evidence of anti-obesity effects of the pomegranate leaf extract in high-fat diet induced obese mice

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) phytochemicals target the components of metabolic syndrome

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a multipurpose dietary and medicinal plant known for its ability to promote various health benefits. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex metabolic disorder driving health and socioeconomic challenges worldwide. It may be characterized by insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. This study aims to conduct a review of pomegranate's effects on MetS parameters using a mechanistic approach relying on pre-clinical studies. The peel, juice, roots, bark, seeds, flowers, and leaves of the fruit present several bioactive compounds that are related mainly to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities as well as cardioprotective, antidiabetic, and antiobesity effects. The use of the juice extract can work as a potent inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme activities, consequently regulating blood pressure. The major bioactive compounds found within the fruit are phenolic compounds (hydrolysable tannins and flavonoids) and fatty acids. Alkaloids, punicalagin, ellagitannins, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, tannins, flavonoids, luteolin, and punicic acid are also present. The antihyperglycemia, antihyperlipidemia, and weight loss promoting effects are likely related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When considering clinical application, pomegranate extracts are found to be frequently well-tolerated, further supporting its efficacy as a treatment modality. We suggest that pomegranate fruit, extract, or processed products can be used to counteract MetS-related risk factors. This review represents an important step towards exploring potential avenues for further research in this area.

Liraglutide modulates morpho-functional and inflammatory gastrointestinal responses in rats

BACKGROUND

Obesity impairs homeostatic control of energy and is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. Effects of glucagon-like peptide-1, the target in the gastrointestinal tract for anti-obesity drugs such as Liraglutide, were not properly associated with inflammation markers. This study investigated the effects of Liraglutide on metabolic and gastrointestinal parameters in a rat model of obesity.

METHODS

Twenty-six Wistar rats with obesity were randomly distributed to receive saline (n = 10), 400 μg (n = 8), or 1200 μg of Liraglutide/kg/day (n = 8), subcutaneously for 30 consecutive days, once a day. Weight gain, feeding efficiency, caloric consumption, gastric motility, adiposity, histomorphometric, murinometric, biochemical parameters and cytokines TNF-α and TGF-β1 in duodenal tissue were measured. Data were analysed by ANOVA, followed by Bonferroni post hoc or Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Dunn's multiple comparison test.

RESULTS

Liraglutide-treated animals had better feeding efficiency and higher caloric intake in a dose-dependent manner. Higher doses slowed gastric emptying and diminished the amplitude of gastric contractions. These effects were accompanied by decreases in intestinal muscle layer thickness and crypt depth. Liraglutide significantly reduced retroperitoneal and visceral white adipose tissue depots. High-dose treatment decreased levels of TNF-α and enhanced levels of TGF-β1 in duodenal tissue. Liraglutide treatment provided significant reductions in total cholesterol, triglyceride and hepatic transaminases.

CONCLUSIONS

Liraglutide reduced fat accumulation, improved metabolic parameters and downregulated levels of inflammatory signalling in duodenal tissue. Liraglutide at high doses controlled obesity-related outcomes, and such effects seemed to be driven by its action on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract slowing gastric motility.

Vitamin D3 supplementation shapes the composition of gut microbiota and improves some obesity parameters induced by high-fat diet in mice

PURPOSE

Individuals with vitamin D (VD) insufficiency have a greater tendency to develop obesity and have increased systemic inflammation. Gut microbiota are involved in the regulation of host inflammation and energy metabolism, which plays a role in the pathogenesis of obesity. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of different doses of VD3 on body weight, serum lipids, inflammatory factors, and intestinal barrier function in obese mice and to explore the regulatory effect of VD3 on gut microbiota in obese mice.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6 J mice received a normal chow diet (NCD, 10% fat) or high-fat diet (HFD, 60% fat) to induce obesity within 10 weeks. Then, HFD mice were supplemented with 5650, 8475, or 11,300 IU VD3/kg diet for 8 weeks. Finally, 16 s rRNA analysis was performed to analyze gut microbiota composition in cecal contents. In addition, body weight, serum lipids, inflammatory factors, and intestinal barrier function were analyzed.

RESULTS

VD3 supplementation reduced body weight and the levels of TG, TC, HDL-C, TNF-α, IL-1β and LPS, and increased ZO-1 in HFD-fed mice. Moreover, it increased α-diversity, reduced F/B ratio and altered microbiota composition by increasing relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Desulfovibrio, Dehalobacterium, Odoribacter, and Parabacteroides and reducing relative abundance of Firmicutes and Ruminococcus. There were significant differences between HFD and NCD groups in several metabolic pathways, including endotoxin biosynthesis, tricarboxylic acid cycle, lipid synthesis and metabolism, and glycolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Low, medium, and high doses of VD3 inhibited weight gain, reduced levels of blood lipids and inflammatory factors, and improved endotoxemia and gut barrier function in obese mice. It also increased the α-diversity of gut microbiota in obese mice and reduced the relative abundance of some intestinal pathogenic bacteria, increased the relative abundance of some beneficial bacteria, and corrected the intestinal flora disorder of obese mice, with the low- and high-dose groups showing better effects than the medium-dose group.

The effects of pomegranate consumption on obesity indices in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Evidence supports the potential application of polyphenols as agents against obesity. Pomegranate is one of the fruits that possess a high content of polyphenols. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) sought to evaluate the effects of pomegranate consumption on obesity indices, including body mass index (BMI), body weight, waist circumference (WC), fat mass (FM), body fat percentage (BFP), and fat-free mass (FFM) in adults. Relevant RCTs were obtained by searching databases, including PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, up to May 2023. Heterogeneity tests of the included trials were performed using the I 2 statistic. Random effects models were assessed based on the heterogeneity tests, and pooled data were determined as the weighted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval. Pooled analysis of 28 trials revealed that pomegranate consumption led to a significant reduction in body weight (WMD: -1.97, 95% CI: -2.91, -1.03, p < .05), and a significant decrease in BMI (WMD: -0.48, 95% CI: -0.76, -0.20, p < .05) in comparison with the control group. However, there were no significant effects on WC, FM, FFM, and BFP in comparison with the control group. Pomegranate consumption may yield a beneficial effect on body weight and BMI in adults. However, there were no significant effects on WC, FM, FFM, and BFP, by pomegranate consumption. Also, pomegranate consumption can reduce body weight, BMI, WC, and BFP in obese adults. Long-term trials with different doses of pomegranate are needed.

An 8-week ketogenic diet improves exercise endurance and liver antioxidant capacity after weight loss in obese mice

Evolving evidence supports the role of the ketogenic diet (KD) in weight loss. However, no coherent conclusions are drawn on its impact on the effect of KD on exercise and antioxidant capacity after weight loss in obese individuals. We evaluated the exercise performance, energy metabolism and antioxidant capacity of mice after weight loss using high-fat diet-induced obese mice, and used KD and normal diet (ND) intervention, respectively, to provide a theoretical basis for further study of the health effects of KD. Our results showed that the 8-week KD significantly reduced the body weight of obese mice and improved the performance of treadmill exercise, but had no significant effect on grip strength. Serum biochemical results suggest that KD has the risk of elevating blood lipid. In liver tissue, KD significantly reduced the level of oxidative stress and increased the antioxidant capacity of the liver. Our findings suggest that the intervention with KD led to weight loss, modulate energy metabolism and improve aerobic exercise endurance in obese mice. Despite its antioxidant potential in the liver, the utilization of KD still requires caution. This study underscores the need for further investigation into the health impacts of KD, especially in regard to its potential risks.

A review of experimental and clinical studies on the therapeutic effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Focus on oxidative stress and inflammation

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is frequently linked to metabolic disorders and is prevalent in obese and diabetic patients. The pathophysiology of NAFLD involves multiple factors, including insulin resistance (IR), oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and genetic predisposition. Recently, there has been an emphasis on the use of herbal remedies with many people around the world resorting to phytonutrients or nutraceuticals for treatment of numerous health challenges in various national healthcare settings. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) parts, such as juice, peel, seed and flower, have high polyphenol content and is well known for its antioxidant capabilities. Pomegranate polyphenols, such as hydrolyzable tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, have high antioxidant capabilities that can help lower the OS and inflammation associated with NAFLD. The study aimed to investigate whether pomegranate parts could attenuate OS, inflammation, and other risk factors associated with NAFLD, and ultimately prevent the development of the disease. The findings of this study revealed that: 1. pomegranate juice contains hypoglycemic qualities that can assist manage blood sugar levels, which is vital for avoiding and treating NAFLD. 2. Polyphenols from pomegranate flowers increase paraoxonase 1 (PON1) mRNA and protein levels in the liver, which can help protect liver enzymes and prevent NAFLD. 3. Punicalagin (PU) is one of the major ellagitannins found in pomegranate, and PU-enriched pomegranate extract (PE) has been shown to inhibit HFD-induced hyperlipidemia and hepatic lipid deposition in rats. 4. Pomegranate fruit consumption, which is high in antioxidants, can decrease the activity of AST and ALT (markers of liver damage), lower TNF-α (a marker of inflammation), and improve overall antioxidant capacity in NAFLD patients. Overall, the polyphenols in pomegranate extracts have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and protective effects on liver enzymes, which can help prevent and manage NAFLD effects on liver enzymes, which can help prevent and manage NAFLD.

Evaluation of the Effect of Pomegranate Seed Oil on Healing in a Rat Wound Model With Antioxidant, Vascular, and Histopathological Parameters

The study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of pomegranate (Punica granatum) seed oil in wound healing in excised rats. Sixteen female young Wistar Albino Rats weighing approximately 300 to 320 g were randomly divided into 2 groups as the treatment (=pomegranate seed oil group) and control groups in this experiment. Six different wounds 1 cm apart from the midline and each other were formed with a 6 mm punch biopsy instrument. Three wounds were left open (open wound group) whereas 3 wounds were sutured with 4/0 vicryl (closed wound group). Punica granatum seed oil treatment was administered topically to the treatment group, both to open and closed wounds, once a day for 14 days. Parameters for healing were evaluated. Histopathologic examination was performed for the investigation of inflammation, neovascularization, granulation, and fibroblast generation in addition to serologic (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) evaluation of rat malondialchehyche, rat glutathione peroxidase, and rat superoxide dismutase. PeriScan PIM 3 System Laser Doppler Blood Perfusion Imager was used for the calculation of blood perfusion. There was a statistically significant difference between inflammation and neovascularization levels and group type on the 14th day in open wounds(P < .05). On the 21st day, the granulation tissue level in the closed wound group was found to be higher in the pomegranate group (P = 0.000).The results showed that PSE oil is partially effective, although it is not effective in every parameter examined, in the treatment of excised wounds in rats and may be suitable for clinical treatment in humans but large controlled studies are needed.

The Modulatory Bioeffects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Polyphenols on Metabolic Disorders: Understanding Their Preventive Role against Metabolic Syndrome

Modern research achievements support the health-promoting effects of natural products and diets rich in polyphenols. Pomegranate (PG) (Punica granatum L.) contains a considerable number of bioactive compounds that exert a broad spectrum of beneficial biological activities, including antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antiobesity, and atheroprotective properties. In this context, the reviewed literature shows that PG intake might reduce insulin resistance, cytokine levels, redox gene expression, blood pressure elevation, vascular injuries, and lipoprotein oxidative modifications. The lipid parameter corrective capabilities of PG-ellagitannins have also been extensively reported to be significantly effective in reducing hyperlipidemia (TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and TAGs), while increasing plasma HDL-C concentrations and improving the TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios. The health benefits of pomegranate consumption seem to be acheived through the amelioration of adipose tissue endocrine function, fatty acid utilization, GLUT receptor expression, paraoxonase activity enhancement, and the modulation of PPAR and NF-κB. While the results from animal experiments are promising, human findings published in this field are inconsistent and are still limited in several aspects. The present review aims to discuss and provide a critical analysis of PG's bioeffects on the components of metabolic syndrome, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia, as well as on certain cardiovascular-related diseases. Additionally, a brief overview of the pharmacokinetic properties, safety, and bioavailability of PG-ellagitannins is included.

Normal diet ameliorates obesity more safely and effectively than ketogenic diet does in high-fat diet-induced obesity mouse based on gut microbiota and lipid metabolism

Growing evidence supports the efficacy of ketogenic diets for inducing weight loss, but there are also potential health risks due to their unbalanced nutrient composition. We aim at assessing relative effectiveness of a balanced diet and ketogenic diet for reversing metabolic syndrome in a diet-induced C57BL/6J mouse model. Mice were fed high-fat diet to induce obesity. Obese individuals were then fed either ketogenic or balanced diets as an obesity intervention. Serum, liver, fat and faecal samples were analysed. We observed that both diet interventions led to significant decrease in body weight. The ketogenic intervention was less effective in reducing adipocyte cell size and led to dyslipidaemia. The composition of the gut microbiome in the balanced diet intervention was more similar to the non-obese control group and had improved functional attributes. Our results indicate intervention with balanced diets ameliorates obesity more safely and effectively than ketogenic diets in diet-induced obesity mouse model.

The Therapeutic Alliance between Pomegranate and Health Emphasizing on Anticancer Properties

Pomegranate is a fruit bearing-plant that is well known for its medicinal properties. Pomegranate is a good source of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids. Pomegranate juice and by-products have attracted the scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. Currently, the medical community has showed great interest in exploiting pomegranate potential as a protective agent against several human diseases including cancer. This is demonstrated by the fact that there are more than 800 reports in the literature reporting pomegranate's anticancer properties. This review is an update on the research outcomes of pomegranate's potential against different types of human diseases, emphasizing on cancer. In addition, perspectives of potential applications of pomegranate, as a natural additive aiming to improve the quality of animal products, are discussed.

UHPLC-Triple-TOF-MS Characterization, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Activity of Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) Seed Extracts

The primary aim of this experiment was to investigate the bioactivity potential and polyphenolic profile of defatted raspberry seeds (DRS) extracts from three varieties (Willamette, Meeker, and Polka) using the in vitro tests HPLC-DAD and UHPLC-Triple-TOF-MS. Extracts were obtained using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) or hydrolysis. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was tested using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) cation (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Furthermore, the extracts were tested for antimicrobial activity using the disk diffusion method for four bacterial cultures (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Enteritidis). In vitro antiproliferative activity was tested using cervical carcinoma (HeLa), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), and fetal lung (MRC-5) human cell lines. In total, 32 phenolic compounds were detected in DRS extracts. A small quantity of ellagic acid (EA) was in free form, while EA content increased after the hydrolysis process. The extracts from the Meeker variety exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, analyzed with DPPH and FRAP assays, while extracts from the Polka variety had the highest activity towards ABTS•⁺ radical scavenging activity. The UAE samples expressed higher antiproliferative activity in comparison to hydrolysis extracts. The results indicate that DRS extracts have certain bioactivity, and their use in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries is recommended.

Effect of Pomegranate Extract Consumption on Satiety Parameters in Healthy Volunteers: A Preliminary Randomized Study

There has been an increasing interest in nutraceuticals and functional foods in reducing appetite and to lose weight. We assessed the effect of oral pomegranate extract (PE) and PE juice (PJ) intake vs. placebo on satiety parameters in healthy volunteers. Twenty-eight subjects (mean age 34.5 ± 13.7 years, body mass index [BMI] 25.05 ± 3.91 kg/m2) were randomized to 3-week priming supplementation with PE (Pomanox®) or placebo. On week 3, satiety parameters were determined on 1 testing day after participants ingested a breakfast and a lunch meal with PJ juice, using 100-mm visual acuity scales (VAS) for hunger, desire to eat, fullness and satisfaction. Meal quality and palatability were also tested. The desire to eat was less at all time points in the PJ juice with PE priming group and participants were also less hungry (p = 0.044) than those who consumed placebo. There was an overall significant difference between the groups (p < 0.001). Participants in the PJ juice with PE priming group experienced significantly greater satisfaction (p = 0.036) and feeling of fullness (p = 0.02) than those in the placebo group. These findings suggest that consumption of PE could have the potential to modulate satiety indicators.

Preventive effect of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) in kidney dysfunction against high fat-diet induced obesity in rats

A high-fat diet (HFD) promotes oxidative stress, which contributes to the development of kidney dysfunction. We examined the protective effects of an ethanol extract of artichoke leaves (EEA) compared to Atorvastatin (ATOR) in the kidney of Wistar rats fed a high-fat diet. The experimental animals were divided into five groups: control (Cont), HFD, HFD treated with EEA (200 mg/kg), HFD treated with EEA (400 mg/kg), and HFD treated with ATOR. Organ weights, lipid profile, renal markers, and antioxidants enzymes were measured. Oral administration of EEA (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 60 days showed a significant decrease in organ weights and kidney markers levels accompanied by decreasing in oxidative stress biomarkers as compared to HFD groups. The histological findings showed a renoprotective effect of artichoke extract. These findings suggest that EEA exerts anti-oxidant kidney effects in HFD- induced obese rats.

Pomegranate juice intake enhances the effects of aerobic training on insulin resistance and liver enzymes in type 2 diabetic men: a single-blind controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle interventions are the first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), highly prevalent in the community. This study aimed to examine the 8-week separate and combined effects of aerobic training (AT) and pomegranate juice intake (PJI) on insulin resistance and serum levels of liver enzymes, liver enzymes, and insulin resistance in men with T2DM.

METHODS

This study evaluated the alterations of anthropometric indices, insulin resistance, and liver enzymes in 40 middle-aged men (40-50) with T2DM. Participants were randomly assigned into four groups: AT+PJI (n = 10); AT (n = 10); PJI (n = 10), and control (C) (n = 10). The AT program consisted of 60-75% of maximum heart rate (HR_max), 40-60 min/day, and 3 days/wk. Participants in the PJI group consumed 240 ml of pomegranate juice (sugar or additive-free) daily for 8 weeks.

RESULTS

AT+PJI, PJI, and AT groups decreased anthropometric indices, HOMA-IR, and liver enzymes after 8 weeks. In contrast, the C group significantly increased the mentioned variables after the intervention. The result showed that AT+PJI significantly lowered liver enzymes, anthropometric indices, and HOMA-IR than AT or PJI alone. Also, the results of this study showed no significant difference between AT and PJI groups. However, in these groups, significant improvements in these variables were observed compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Due to the effect of combined AT+PJI in improving T2DM risk factors, it could be recommended for T2DM patients to prevent increased liver enzymes and insulin resistance.

Oral Supplement Containing Hydroxytyrosol and Punicalagin Improves Dyslipidemia in an Adult Population without Co-Adjuvant Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled and Crossover Trial

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) and punicalagin (PC) exert cardioprotective and antiatherosclerotic effects. This study evaluated the effect of an oral supplement containing HT and PC (SAx) on dyslipidemia in an adult population. A randomized, double-blind, controlled, crossover trial was conducted over a 20-week period. SAx significantly reduced the plasma levels of triglycerides (TG) in subjects with hypertriglyceridemia (≥150 mg/dL) (from 200.67 ± 51.38 to 155.33 ± 42.44 mg/dL; p < 0.05), while no such effects were observed in these subjects after the placebo. SAx also significantly decreased the plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in subjects with high plasma levels of LDL-C (≥160 mg/dL) (from 179.13 ± 16.18 to 162.93 ± 27.05 mg/dL; p < 0.01), while no such positive effect was observed with the placebo. In addition, the placebo significantly reduced the plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the total population (from 64.49 ± 12.65 to 62.55 ± 11.57 mg/dL; p < 0.05), while SAx significantly increased the plasma levels of HDL-C in subjects with low plasma levels of HDL-C (<50 mg/dL) (from 44.25 ± 3.99 to 48.00 ± 7.27 mg/dL; p < 0.05). In conclusion, the supplement containing HT and PC exerted antiatherosclerotic and cardio-protective effects by considerably improving dyslipidemia in an adult population, without co-adjuvant treatment or adverse effects.

Conjugated linoleic acid ameliorates hepatic steatosis by modulating intestinal permeability and gut microbiota in ob/ob mice

Background

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is an effective supplement for reducing fat mass, but its effect on hepatic steatosis remains controversial.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the effect of CLA on liver fat accumulation, inflammation, gut microbiome, and intestinal barrier integrity.

Design

Wild-type (WT) mice and ob/ob (OB) mice were randomly divided into four groups according to the treatment with/without 1% CLA: WT, WT mice treated with CLA (WT-CLA), OB, and OB mice treated with CLA (OB-CLA). Lipid metabolism and hepatic fat accumulation were evaluated by changes in histological and biochemical parameters. Gene expressions related to liver inflammation and intestinal barrier integrity were examined. The effect of CLA on the gut microbiota population was investigated.

Results

The body weight, fatty tissue mass, and serum lipid levels of the WT-CLA group and OB-CLA group were separately lower than those of the WT group and OB group, but the livers of the WT-CLA group had more fatty lipids, higher triglyceride properties, and saturated fatty acid (FA) composition than those of the WT group, which was contrary to the effect of CLA on OB mice. Real time quantitative PCR results showed that CLA increased hepatic inflammation and intestinal permeability in the WT mice, while it significantly decreased the mRNA expression of liver TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1β and markedly ameliorated intestinal tight junction proteins in the OB mice. The gut microbiota testing indicated a higher abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lachnoclostridium, Roseburia, Dubosiella, Oscillibacter, and Anaerostipes) and a lower abundance of pro-inflammatory bacteria (e.g., Tyzzerella and Alistipes) in the OB-CLA group than those of the OB group. Correlation analysis suggested that gut microbiota correlated with liver inflammation, intestinal permeability, and hepatic FA composition.

Conclusion

CLA potentially contributed to ameliorating hepatic steatosis in OB mice via modulating liver inflammation, intestinal permeability, and gut microbiota, which suggests CLA is more suitable for people with obesity or overweight.

Punicalagin and Ketogenic Amino Acids Loaded Organic Lipid Carriers Enhance the Bioavailability, Mitochondrial β-Oxidation, and Ketogenesis in Maturing Adipocytes

The identification of lipolytic bioactive compounds via the functional stimulation of carbohydrate response element-binding protein-1 (CREBp-1) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is most warranted. Nano lipid carriers (NLCs) are currently being considered within drug delivery development as they facilitate controlled drug release and have intracellular bioavailability after encapsulating the active principles with lipid matrix. The present study has been designed to synthesize punicalagin, and ketogenic amino acids (KAA) loaded with organic lipid carriers to optimize the liposome-assisted intracellular delivery’s bioavailability. Punicalagin (PUNI) and KAA (tryptophan, methionine, threonine, lysine, and leucine) were encapsulated with chia seed phospholipids by homogenization, emulsification, and cold ultra-sonication method to obtain nano lipid carriers (NLC). The physicochemical characterization of NLCs has been carried out using Zetasizer, FT-IR, and TEM analysis. Punicalagin and ketogenic amino acid-loaded NLCs (NLC-PUNI-KAA) were identified with an average diameter of 240 to 800 nm. The biosafety of NLC-PUNI-KAA has been evaluated in human mesenchymal stem cells. PI staining confirmed that a 0.4, 0.8 or 1.6μg/dL dose of NLC-PUNI-KAA potentially maintains nuclear integration. NLC-PUNI-KAA treated with maturing adipocytes decreased lipid accumulation and significantly increased the gene expression levels of fatty acid beta-oxidation (PPARγC1α, UCP-1 and PRDM-16) pathways when compared to free PUNI (5 μg/dL) treatment. The lipolytic potential has been confirmed by the functional activation of AMPK and CREBp-1 protein levels. In conclusion, NLC-PUNI-KAA treatment effectively increased mitochondrial efficiency more than free punicalagin or orlistat treated maturing adipocyte. Enhanced lipolysis and decreased hypertrophic adipocyte resulted in decreased adipokine secretion, which has been associated with the suppression of obesity-associated comorbidities and vascular cell inflammation. The bioefficacy and lipolytic potential of water-soluble punicalagin have been improved after functional modification into NLCs.

Pomegranate peel anthocyanins prevent diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in association with modulation of the gut microbiota in mice

PURPOSE

Pomegranate peels are rich in anthocyanins. The present study aimed to explore the beneficial effects of pomegranate peel anthocyanins (PPA) on obesity and gut microbiota in mice with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity.

METHODS

Specific pathogen-free (SPF) male C57BL/6 J mice were randomly divided into three groups and fed with low-fat diet (LFD, 10% fat energy), HFD (45% fat energy), or HFD supplemented with PPA by intragastric administration for 15 weeks. Body weight and food intake were monitored weekly. The obesity-related biochemical indexes and hepatic gene expression levels were determined. The compositions of the gut microbiota were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing, and the association between the gut microbiota and obesity-related indicators was investigated by Spearman correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that the body weight gain, steatosis scores and insulin resistance index in the PPA group decreased by 27.46%, 56.25%, and 46.07%, respectively, compared to the HFD group. Gene expression analysis indicated that PPA supplement improved the genes expression profiles involved in glucose and lipid metabolism compared with the mice fed HFD alone. Meanwhile, PPA significantly changed the composition of the gut microbiota, which were closely correlated with the obesity-related biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that PPA could be a beneficial treatment option for alleviating HFD-induced obesity and related metabolic disorders by targeting microbiota and lipid metabolism.

Therapeutic Potential of Pomegranate in Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic syndrome and associated disorders have become one of the major challenging health problems over the last decades. Considerable attention has been paid to natural products and herbal medicines for the management of metabolic disorders in recent years. Many studies have investigated the therapeutic effects of different parts (arils, peels, seeds, and flowers) of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) for the prevention and treatment of this syndrome. This study aims to provide an updated review on the in vitro and in vivo studies as well as clinical trials investigating the effects of pomegranate and its active compounds on different components of metabolic problems such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, as well as obesity over the last two decades. Besides, the key mechanisms by which pomegranate affects these pathogenic conditions are also discussed. The studies show that although pomegranate has promising beneficial effects on diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity in various cellular, animal, and clinical models of studies, there are some conflicting results, particularly for hyperglycemic conditions. The main mechanisms include influencing oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory responses. Overall, pomegranate seems to have positive effects on the pathogenic conditions of metabolic syndrome according to the reviewed studies. Although pomegranate is not suggested as the first line of therapy or monotherapy, it could be only used as an adjunctive therapy. Nevertheless, further large and long-term clinical studies are still required.

The effect of pomegranate extract on anthropometric indices, serum lipids, glycemic indicators, and blood pressure in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized double-blind clinical trial

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease. The beneficial effects of pomegranate have been shown on insulin resistance and obesity, which are linked to NAFLD pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of pomegranate extract in patients with NAFLD. Forty-four NAFLD patients were randomly assigned to receive two pomegranate extract tablets or placebo for 12 weeks. Anthropometric measurements, serum lipids, glycemic indicators, and blood pressure were assessed at baseline and the end of the study. Pomegranate was associated with a reduction in the total cholesterol (p ˂ .001), triglyceride (p ˂ .001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (p ˂ .003), fasting blood sugar (p ˂ .001), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (p = .02), diastolic blood pressure (p = .04), weight (p ˂ .001), body mass index (p ˂ .001), and waist circumference (p = .002), as compared to placebo. A significant increase was observed in serum HDL-C (p ˂ .001) after intervention with the pomegranate extract. However, no significant difference was shown between the two groups in serum insulin and LDL-C. The pomegranate extract supplement could be used as a complementary therapy along with existing therapies to improve glycemic indicators, serum lipids, anthropometric indices, and blood pressure in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver.

Formulation and organoleptic evaluation of Poly Herbal Cream of Punica, Neem, Carrot & Jamun as Active Ingredients

Assuming that herbal preparation is better with fewer side effects than synthetics, natural treatments are more effective than allopathy in terms of side effects for better human body healing. Herbal products have a growing demand in the world market, and the plants have been reported in the literature as having various pharmacological activities such as anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory activity, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic. The purpose of this study was to develop anti-aging poly-herbal cream by mixing the extract of Punica leaf, Neem Oil, Jamun powder, Carrot powder as the main ingredient, and then creams were developed based on the anti-oxidant ability of herbal extracts and performed their evaluation study. Punica granatam leaves were shade dried and extracted using the Soxhlet method with different solvents such as n-hexane, benzene, and alcohol. Fine extract powder was collected and removed distilled water thoroughly. The cream was formulated into different concentrations, namely F1, F2, F3, and F4. Similar types of research with similar components have been reported, but in this experiment, the formulation is different, and this work is kept cost-efficient and straightforward; it's an attempt to reduce few components and prepare cream and evaluate its potential. According to The International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use ICH guidelines, the cream was stable during stability studies, and F3 turned out to be a better formulation than the other three.

Proteomic and molecular evidences of Il1rl2, Ric8a, Krt18 and Hsp90b1 modulation during experimental hepatic fibrosis and pomegranate supplementation

The inspection of variations in the proteomic aspects conspire the biomarker discovery in diagnostics of peculiar diseases. Recent developments in high-throughput proteomic techniques have provided leverage in the discovery of biomarkers during the etiology of various diseases. We identified potential biomarkers by utilizing proteomics, bioinformatics and gene expression studies. Meticulous assessment of collagen and hydroxyproline levels along with the glycogen and protein carbonyl levels exhibited deterioration in the N' - Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) administered rat livers and subsequent salubrious effect of pomegranate juice. The immunohistochemical inspection of iNOS and nitrite estimation indicated the peccant fibrotic alterations. 2D proteome profiling and MALDI-TOF MS/MS furthered the significant biomarkers to be analyzed for the gene ontology by PANTHER, cluster analysis by DAVID and network simulation by STRING 10.0. Several genes found relevant after MALDI analysis were evaluated by real-time PCR (RTPCR). Our data revealed CYP2b15, HSP70, TRFE, HPT, Il1rl2, Ric8a, Krt18, Hsp90b1 and iNOS as novel biomarkers for the mechanism of pomegranate against liver fibrosis. It can be inferred that NDEA-induced liver fibrosis actuates various biological pathways by the identified biomarkers and pomegranate juice modifies them.

Fat regulatory mechanisms of pine nut oil based on protein interaction network analysis

BACKGROUND

Pine nut oil (PNO), a standardized and well-defined extract of Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine), has beneficial effects on wound healing, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. However, the explanation for the mechanism by which PNO reduces body fat remains uncertain. We performed a protein-protein interaction network (PPIN) analysis to explore the genes associated with pinolenic acid using the MEDILINE database from PubChem and PubMed. It was concluded through the PPIN analysis that PNO was involved in a neutral lipid biosynthetic process.

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the effects of PNO predicted by the network analysis of fat accumulation in chronic obesity mouse models established by feeding a high fat diet (HFD) to C57BL/6J mice and explored potential mechanisms.

METHODS

HFD mice were fed only HFD or HFD with PNO at 822 and 1644 mg/kg. After an oral administration of 7 weeks, several body weight and body fat-related parameters were examined, including the following: adipose weight, adipocyte size, serum lipid profiles, adipocyte expression of PPAR-γ, sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP)-1c, lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and leptin.

RESULTS

We showed that oral administration of PNO to HFD mice reduces body fat weight, fat in tissue, white adipose tissue weight, and adipocyte size. The serum cholesterol was improved in the HFD mice treated with PNO. Additionally, PNO has significantly attenuated the HFD-induced changes in the adipose tissue expression of PPAR-γ, SREBP-1c, LPL, and leptin.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study based on the PPIN analysis suggest that PNO has potential as drug to reduce body fat through fat regulatory mechanisms by PPAR-γ and SREBP-1c.

Kun-Dan Decoction Ameliorates Insulin Resistance by Activating AMPK/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats

Background: Metabolic syndrome is characterized by central obesity, hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Insulin resistance is the leading risk factor for metabolic syndrome. Kun-Dan decoction (KD), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been applied to treat patients with metabolic syndrome for over ten years. It is increasingly recognized that autophagy deficiency is the key cause of metabolic syndrome. Therefore, we aimed to explore whether KD can activate autophagy to improve metabolic syndrome.

Methods: Network pharmacology was used to explore the underlying mechanism of KD in the treatment of metabolic syndrome. The high-fat diet-fed rats and oleic acid-induced LO2 cells were employed in our study. Oral glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test, obesity and histological examination, serum cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and insulin sensitivity in high-fat diet-fed rats were analyzed. Furthermore, the protein expressions of adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), phospho-AMPK, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), phospho-mTOR, p62, autophagy related protein (Atg) 5, Atg7, Atg12, Atg13, Atg16L1 and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3)-Ⅱ/Ⅰ were examined in rats and LO2 cells. Moreover, autophagy activator rapamycin and inhibitor 3-methyladenine, and small interfering RNA against Atg7 were utilized to verify the role of autophagy in the treatment of metabolic syndrome by KD in oleic acid-induced LO2 cells.

Results: Results from network pharmacology indicated that targeted insulin resistance might be the critical mechanism of KD in the treatment of metabolic syndrome. We found that KD significantly suppressed obesity, serum cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-C levels and increased serum HDL-C level in high-fat diet-fed rats. Furthermore, KD enhanced insulin sensitivity and attenuated HOMA-IR in high-fat diet-fed rats. Western blot showed that KD could enhance autophagy to increase the insulin sensitivity of high-fat diet-fed rats and oleic acid-induced LO2 cells. Furthermore, 3-methyladenine and small interfering RNA against Atg7 could reverse the protective effect of KD on LO2 cells. However, rapamycin could cooperate with KD to enhance autophagic activation to increase insulin sensitivity in LO2 cells.

Conclusion: The induction of autophagy may be the major mechanism for KD to improve insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

Plants used against obesity in Turkish folk medicine: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Obesity is one of the growing public health problems in Turkey, as well as all over the world, threatening people of almost all ages. Turkey has a large potential for research on this topic due to owning broad ethnomedicinal experience and the richest flora (34% endemic) of Europe and the Middle East. Herbs that they have utilized for centuries to treat and prevent obesity can provide useful options to overcome this issue.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This survey was carried out to disclose the inventory of plant taxa that the people of Turkey have been using for a few centuries in treating obesity without any side effects or complications, and to compare them with experimental studies in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research was achieved in two phases on the matter above by using electronic databases, such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ProQuest, Medline, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, HighWire Press, PubMed and Google Scholar. Both results were shown in separate tables as well as the regional comparative analysis.

RESULTS

117 herbal taxa belonging to 45 families were identified among the selected 74 studies conducted in the seven regions of Turkey. However, only 49 (41.9%) of them were found to be subjected to worldwide in vitro and in vivo research conducted on anti-obesity activity. Quercetin (9.1%), gallic acid (6.1%) and ferulic acid and epigallocatechin gallate (4.5%) have been recorded as the most common active ingredients among the 66 active substances identified. Prunus avium (32.4%) and Rosmarinus officinalis (25.7%) were identified as the most common plants used in Turkey. Also, Portulaca oleracea and Brassica oleracea emerged as the most investigated taxa in the literature.

CONCLUSION

This is the first country-wide ethnomedical review conducted on obesity treatment with plants in Turkey. Evaluating the results of the experimental anti-obesity research conducted in the recent years in the literature, it was determined that forty-nine plants were verified. This clearly shows that these herbs have a high potential to be a pharmacological resource. Moreover, 68 (41.9%) taxa, which haven't been investigated yet, are likely to be a promising resource for national and international pharmacological researchers in terms of new natural medicine searches.

Subacute and subchronic toxicity of microencapsulated pomegranate juice in rats and mice

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a fruit used extensively in traditional medicine by ancient and modern cultures. Different parts of the tree and fruit, such as leaf, peel, pericarp, aril, seed, and juice contain considerable amounts of phenolic compounds with high antioxidant activities. To improve its storability, pomegranate juice was microencapsulated by spray drying. The present study evaluated microencapsulated pomegranate juice (MPJ) for toxic effects in Wistar rats and CD-1 mice to determine if MPJ can be considered safe for human consumption and used as a nutraceutical. No deaths or deleterious effects occurred when high doses of 5000 mg/kg were orally administered in rats for 14 days, indicating an absence of subacute toxicity. Similarly, 3000 mg/kg MPJ administered to CD-1 mice for 90 days did not show subchronic toxicity. In fact, MPJ resulted in lowered weight gain in both rats and mice. Cytotoxic and microbiological analyses of MPJ were also performed. MPJ did not cause any cytotoxicity in epithelial cell culture as tested using the Alamar blue assay. Additionally, histopathological analysis of kidney and liver corroborated the absence of toxicity in CD-1 mice. The microbial load of the MPJ was low, and no pathogenic bacteria were present. In conclusion, the results reported here show that high doses of MPJ are apparently innocuous in rats and mice for the 14 and 90 days investigated, respectively. Although preliminary, our results suggest that MPJ may be safe to ingest and may even have beneficial effects in reducing weight gain.

Phytotherapy for Cardiovascular Disease: A Bench-to-Bedside Approach

At present, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and global trends suggest that this panorama will persist or worsen in the near future. Thus, optimization of treatment strategies and the introduction of novel therapeutic alternatives for CVD represent key objectives in contemporary biomedical research. In recent years, phytotherapy-defined as the therapeutic use of whole or minimally modified plant components-has ignited large scientific interest, with a resurgence of abundant investigation on a wide array of medicinal herbs (MH) for CVD and other conditions. Numerous MH have been observed to intervene in the pathophysiology of CVD via a myriad of molecular mechanisms, including antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, and other beneficial properties, which translate into the amelioration of three essential aspects of the pathogenesis of CVD: Dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Although the preclinical data in this scenario is very rich, the true clinical impact of MH and their purported mechanisms of action is less clear, as large-scale robust research in this regard is in relatively early stages and faces important methodological challenges. This review offers a comprehensive look at the most prominent preclinical and clinical evidence currently available concerning the use of MH in the treatment of CVD from a bench-to-bedside approach.

Precision Nutrition to Activate Thermogenesis as a Complementary Approach to Target Obesity and Associated-Metabolic-Disorders

Simple Summary

Regarding the pandemic of obesity and chronic diseases associated to metabolic alterations that occur nowadays worldwide, here, we review the most recent studies related to bioactive compounds and diet derived ingredients with potential effects to augment the systemic energy expenditure. We specifically focus in two processes: the activation of thermogenesis in adipose tissue and the enhancement of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity in muscles. This may provide relevant information to develop diets and supplements to conduct nutritional intervention studies with the objective to ameliorate the metabolic and chronic inflammation in the course of obesity and related disorders.

Abstract

Obesity is associated to increased incidence and poorer prognosis in multiple cancers, contributing to up to 20% of cancer related deaths. These associations are mainly driven by metabolic and inflammatory changes in the adipose tissue during obesity, which disrupt the physiologic metabolic homeostasis. The association between obesity and hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is well known. Importantly, the retrospective analysis of more than 1000 epidemiological studies have also shown the positive correlation between the excess of fatness with the risk of cancer. In addition, more important than weight, it is the dysfunctional adipose tissue the main driver of insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and all cause of mortality and cancer deaths, which also explains why normal weight individuals may behave as “metabolically unhealthy obese” individuals. Adipocytes also have direct effects on tumor cells through paracrine signaling. Downregulation of adiponectin and upregulation of leptin in serum correlate with markers of chronic inflammation, and crown like structures (CLS) associated to the adipose tissue disfunction. Nevertheless, obesity is a preventable risk factor in cancer. Lifestyle interventions might contribute to reduce the adverse effects of obesity. Thus, Mediterranean diet interventional studies have been shown to reduce to circulation inflammatory factors, insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular function, with durable responses of up to 2 years in obese patients. Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil reduced the incidence of breast cancer compared with a control diet. Physical activity is another important lifestyle factor which may also contribute to reduced systemic biomarkers of metabolic syndrome associated to obesity. In this scenario, precision nutrition may provide complementary approaches to target the metabolic inflammation associated to “unhealthy obesity”. Herein, we first describe the different types of adipose tissue -thermogenic active brown adipose tissue (BAT) versus the energy storing white adipose tissue (WAT). We then move on precision nutrition based strategies, by mean of natural extracts derived from plants and/or diet derived ingredients, which may be useful to normalize the metabolic inflammation associated to “unhealthy obesity”. More specifically, we focus on two axis: (1) the activation of thermogenesis in BAT and browning of WAT; (2) and the potential of augmenting the oxidative capacity of muscles to dissipate energy. These strategies may be particularly relevant as complementary approaches to alleviate obesity associated effects on chronic inflammation, immunosuppression, angiogenesis and chemotherapy resistance in cancer. Finally, we summarize main studies where plant derived extracts, mainly, polyphenols and flavonoids, have been applied to increase the energy expenditure.

Effect of bee bread on some biochemical parameters and skeletal muscle histology of high-fat diet-induced obese Sprague-Dawley rats

The effect of bee bread (BB) on the biochemical parameters-body weights, calorie intake, Lee obesity indices, serum amylase, aspartate and alanine amino transferases, skeletal muscle activities of creatine kinase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, malondialdehyde, glutathione-S-transferase, total antioxidant activity, endogenous secretory receptor for advanced glycation end products (esRAGE), and muscle histology of high-fat diet (HFD) obese rats-was studied. Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups: Control: received rat feed and water (1 ml/kg); HFD: received HFD and water (1 ml/kg): BB or orlistat preventive: received HFD and BB (0.5 g/kg) or HFD and orlistat (10 mg/kg; weeks 1 to 12); BB or orlistat treated: received HFD and BB (0.5 g/kg) or HFD and orlistat (10 mg/kg; weeks 6 to 12), following obesity induction. At week 12, HFD group had altered (p < .05) levels of some biochemical parameters which were modulated by BB and corroborated by muscle histology. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Obesity is a global health problem, which prevalence has continued to be on the increase due to changes in lifestyle and dietary behavior. Additionally, the approaches that currently are being used for the treatment of this disease have not been able to successfully reverse obesity and its associated complications. The current study which showed that bee bread prevented or attenuated obesity-induced muscular pathology, places bee bread in the spotlight as a functional food that could be useful in preventing or mitigating obesity-induced muscular pathology.

Insight into Polyphenol and Gut Microbiota Crosstalk: Are Their Metabolites the Key to Understand Protective Effects against Metabolic Disorders?

Lifestyle factors, especially diet and nutrition, are currently regarded as essential avenues to decrease modern-day cardiometabolic disorders (CMD), including obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Many groups around the world attribute these trends, at least partially, to bioactive plant polyphenols given their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. In fact, polyphenols can prevent or reverse the progression of disease processes through many distinct mechanisms. In particular, the crosstalk between polyphenols and gut microbiota, recently unveiled thanks to DNA-based tools and next generation sequencing, unravelled the central regulatory role of dietary polyphenols and their intestinal micro-ecology metabolites on the host energy metabolism and related illnesses. The objectives of this review are to: (1) provide an understanding of classification, structure, and bioavailability of dietary polyphenols; (2) underline their metabolism by gut microbiota; (3) highlight their prebiotic effects on microflora; (4) discuss the multifaceted roles of their metabolites in CMD while shedding light on the mechanisms of action; and (5) underscore their ability to initiate host epigenetic regulation. In sum, the review clearly documents whether dietary polyphenols and micro-ecology favorably interact to promote multiple physiological functions on human organism.

Pomegranate: Nutraceutical with Promising Benefits on Human Health

Pomegranate is an old plant made up by flowers, roots, fruits and leaves, native to Central Asia and principally cultivated in the Mediterranean and California (although now widespread almost all over the globe). The current use of this precious plant regards not only the exteriority of the fruit (employed also for ornamental purpose) but especially the nutritional and, still potential, health benefits that come out from the various parts composing this one (carpellary membranes, arils, seeds and bark). Indeed, the phytochemical composition of the fruit abounds in compounds (flavonoids, ellagitannins, proanthocyanidins, mineral salts, vitamins, lipids, organic acids) presenting a significant biological and nutraceutical value. For these reasons, pomegranate interest is increased over the years as the object of study for many research groups, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. Specifically, in-depth studies of its biological and functional properties and the research of new formulations could be applied to a wide spectrum of diseases including neoplastic, cardiovascular, viral, inflammatory, metabolic, microbial, intestinal, reproductive and skin diseases. In this review, considering the increasing scientific and commercial interest of nutraceuticals, we reported an update of the investigations concerning the health-promoting properties of pomegranate and its bioactive compounds against principal human pathologies.

Punica protopunica Balf., the Forgotten Sister of the Common Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.): Features and Medicinal Properties-A Review

Punica protopunica Balf. is one of only two species housed by the Punica genera. Punica protopunica. Balf., known as Socotran pomegranate, is an endemic, isolated species found only in Socotra archipelago in the northwestern Indian Ocean, and is considered to be the ancestor of pomegranate. This review stems from the fact that in many Punica granatum L. articles, Punica protopunica Balf. is mentioned, but just in an informative way, without mentioning their taxonomic and genetic relationship and their medicinal properties. It is there where the need arises to know more about this forgotten species: “the other pomegranate tree.” A large part of the human population does not know of its existence, since only its “sister” has spread throughout the world. The present review deals with the taxonomy and origin of Punica protopunica Balf., the morphology of the tree, distribution, cultivation, vulnerability, and as well as its relationship with Punica granatum L. It also discusses its uses in traditional medicine, its antioxidant capacity, and the medicinal properties of this forgotten species.

Effect of Sunlight Exposure on Anthocyanin and Non-Anthocyanin Phenolic Levels in Pomegranate Juices by High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Approach

Quali-quantitative analyses of anthocyanins and non-anthocyanin phenolic compounds performed with the use of liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry, were evaluated in juice of pomegranate fruits ('Dente di Cavallo'), in relation to different light exposures (North, South, West and East). A total of 16 compounds were identified, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins, and anthocyanins, known for their health-promoting effects. Striking differences were observed about the total phenolic content, which was high in juices from fruits with east- and north-facing position, while it was lower in juices facing south. The greatest contents of total flavonoids and anthocyanins were recorded in fruit juices with southern exposure; however, there are no great differences in the content in phenolic acids. Tannins were mainly synthesized in fruit juices with West exposure. The results showed that the position within the tree had no significant effects on color juice, however, it significantly (p < 0.05) affected data on fruit weight, soluble sugars and juice yield. Remarkable synergies existed among polyphenols and phytochemicals in pomegranate juice, but collecting fruits with different solar exposure could enhance different health benefits, i.e., the juices with higher polyphenols content could have more anticancer effect or those with higher tannins content could have more antimicrobial effect.

Constituents from Solidago virgaurea var. gigantea and their inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation

In this study, the anti-adipogenic activities of compounds isolated from Solidago viraurea var. gigantea (SG) extracts were investigated using Oil Red O staining in the 3T3-L1 cell line. Four known compounds including 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5), protocatechuic acid (6), chlorogenic acid (7), and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (8), and four undescribed compounds including (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-methyl 7-((cinnamoyloxy)methyl)-2,3-dihydroxy-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylate (1), (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-methyl 2,3-dihydroxy-7-((((Z)-3-phenylacryloyl)oxy)methyl)-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylate (2), (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-2,3-dihydroxy-7-((((Z)-3-phenylacryloyl)oxy)methyl)-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylic acid (3), and (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-7-((cinnamoyloxy)methyl)-2,3-dihydroxy-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylic acid (4) were isolated from S. viraurea var. gigantea. The structures of the compounds were first identified by comparing their ¹H NMR spectra with spectral data from the literature and a more detailed identification was then performed using 2D NMR (Correlated spectroscopy (COSY), heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC), heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC), and nuclear overhauser spectroscopy (NOESY)), and X-ray crystallography analyses. The anti-adipogenic activities of all compounds were evaluated by MTT assay and Oil Red O staining in 3T3-L1 cells. 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid was found to inhibit lipid accumulation more potently than the other tested compounds.

Effects of Inulin Propionate Ester on Obesity-Related Metabolic Syndrome and Intestinal Microbial Homeostasis in Diet-Induced Obese Mice

Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) plays an important role in improving obesity and related metabolic syndrome induced by high-fat diet. We used the prepared inulin propionate ester (IPE) as a system for the targeted release of propionate to the colon to elucidate the role of IPE in regulating obesity and metabolic syndrome, and intestinal microbial homeostasis, in diet-induced obese mice. With this strategy, IPE significantly increased the SCFA contents in the colon and resulted in significant body weight reduction, insulin resistance amelioration, and gastrointestinal hormone (glucagon-like peptide and peptide YY) secretion (P < 0.05). The IPE intervention reduced liver fatty accumulation, which improved obesity-related fatty liver disease (P < 0.05). IPE supplementation increased the richness and diversity of the microbial community and altered bacterial population at both the phylum and family level. Intestinal microbial results showed that the relative abundance of Desulfovibrionaceae and Erysipelotrichaceae, which promote the production of inflammatory factors, was reduced. Our results demonstrate that IPE can be used as an effective strategy for delivering propionate to obese mice colon, which can ameliorate obesity and associated metabolic syndrome and modify intestinal microbial homeostasis.

Pomegranate as a Potential Alternative of Pain Management: A Review

The use of complementary medicine has recently increased in an attempt to find effective alternative therapies that reduce the adverse effects of drugs. Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) has been used in traditional medicine for different kinds of pain. This review aims to explore the scientific evidence about the antinociceptive effect of pomegranate. A selection of original scientific articles that accomplished the inclusion criteria was carried out. It was found that different parts of pomegranate showed an antinociceptive effect; this effect can be due mainly by the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, or fatty acids. It is suggested in the literature that the mechanisms of action may be related to the activation of the L-arginine / NO pathway, members of the TRP superfamily (TRPA1 or TRPV1) and the opioid system. The implications for the field are to know the mechanisms of action by which this effect is generated and thus be able to create alternative treatments for specific types of pain, which help alleviate it and reduce the adverse effects produced by drugs. The results propose that pomegranate and secondary metabolites could be considered in the treatment of inflammatory, nociceptive, and neuropathic pain.

Characterization of Flavonoid Compounds in Common Swedish Berry Species

Berries are considered an ideal source of polyphenols, especially from the flavonoid group. In this study, we examined the flavonoid content in 16 varieties of Swedish lingonberry, raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry. Nineteen flavonoids were simultaneously quantified using external standards. An additional 29 flavonoids were tentatively identified using MS as no standards were available. Quantification was done using HPLC-UV after optimization of chromatographic and extraction procedures. The method showed high linearity within the range of 2-100 μg/mL (correlation co-efficient >0.999), intra- and inter-day precision of 1.7-7.3% and average recovery above 84% for all compounds. Blueberries and lingonberries were found to contain higher contents of flavonoids (1100 mg/100 g dry weight) than raspberries and strawberries (500 mg/100 g dry weight). Anthocyanins were the dominant flavonoids in all berries. The tentatively characterized compounds contribute 18%, 29%, 61%, and 67% of the total flavonoid content in strawberries, lingonberries, raspberries, and blueberries, respectively. Overall, Swedish berries were shown to be good sources of polyphenols.

High fat diet induced obesity model using four strainsof mice: Kunming, C57BL/6, BALB/c and ICR

High fat diet (HFD) treated mouse is widely used as experimental animal model for hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia study. Many factors contribute to establish animal model that meant to simulate high fat and glucose diet induced phenotypes. In the present study, four strains of experiment mouse treated by HFD were used to explore the impact of mouse strain on lipid profile, glucose level, and major inflammation cytokines. HFD fed Kunming and ICR mouse gained significantly higher body weight than control which was not shown by C57BL/6 and BALB/c mouse. All four strains fed by HFD has heavier liver and adipose tissue than control ones. Obvious fat droplets and enlarged adipose cells were observed in obese mouse of four strains. Additionally, obese mouse showed typical response to glucose and insulin load in OGTT and ITT. Serum TC, LDL-c, and TC/HDL-c ratio, but not TG, increased in all four strains. Major inflammatory cytokines and insulin level showed little changes in obese mouse as well (P<0.05) The present study could provide basic information for diet induced obesity developed by four commonly used experimental mouse strains.

The effect of diet on oxidative stress and metabolic diseases-Clinically controlled trials

Oxidative stress is associated with several chronic diseases. It is acknowledged that molecules damaged by reactive oxygen species activate the inflammatory process and that this response increases the production of free radicals. Modifications in a diet can improve or decrease redox state markers. The aim of this revision was to provide an update of clinical controlled trials, to assess changes in diet and markers of oxidative stress in subjects with metabolic diseases. They were investigated randomized controlled intervention studies (RCTs) published in MEDLINE (U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health) that were conducted in subjects with obesity, hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia; with dietary intervention; where markers of oxidative stress have been evaluated and published in the last 5 years. Food antioxidants, hypocaloric diets with loss of adipose tissue, substitution of animal protein by vegetable, and changes in the microbiota improve antioxidant status in people with chronic disease. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus and adipose tissue in obesity are known to trigger oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, in turn, decreases insulin sensitivity and favors an inflammatory state producing adhesion molecules. Oxidative stress and adhesion molecules, can increase blood pressure and oxidation of lipoproteins, that ultimately could lead to a cerebrovascular event. Consumption of high-antioxidant and polyphenol foods increases plasma antioxidant capacity and decreases oxidative stress markers in people with diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and hypertriglyceridemia. In addition, weight loss caused by caloric restriction with or without exercise increases the endogenous antioxidant capacity. Therefore, it is likely that the combination of a hypocaloric diet with a high content of antioxidants and polyphenols will have a greater effect. Other dietary changes with antioxidant effect, such as the substitution of animal for vegetable protein or the addition of fiber, might be mediated by changes in the microbiota. However, this aspect requires further study.

Urolithins Attenuate Multiple Symptoms of Obesity in Rats Fed on a High-Fat Diet

BACKGROUND

Urolithins are gut microbiota-derived polyphenol metabolites, produced following the consumption of pomegranate, berries, and nuts. Recent studies have shown the potentials of these metabolites on reducing triglycerides accumulation in cultured hepatocytes and adipocytes. In this study, we investigated the ability of both urolithin A (Uro-A) and urolithin B (Uro-B) to attenuate obesity and associated symptoms in a high-fat diet-induced obesity model in rats.

METHODS

Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups. Group 1 was fed on a normal diet while groups 2, 3, and 4 were fed on a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. After this, groups 3 and 4 were treated with 2.5mg/kg body weight of Uro-A and Uro-B intraperitoneally, respectively. Body weight, serum lipid profile, hepatic antioxidant activity, hepatic lipid accumulation, fecal lipid content, and the expressions of genes involved in lipogenesis and hepatic ER stress were quantified.

RESULTS

Indeed, a high-fat diet resulted in increased body weight, visceral adipose tissue mass, and oxidative stress in rats. However, treatment with both Uro-A and Uro-B decreased body weight and visceral adipose tissue mass. These metabolites restored hepatic antioxidant capacity and decreased lipid accumulation in addition to an increase in fecal fat excretion. Moreover, both Uro-A and Uro-B treatment downregulated the expression of LXRα and SREBP1c; involved in de novo lipogenesis while upregulating PPARα expression for increased fatty acid oxidation. Furthermore, Uro-A and Uro-B decreased the expression of PERK and IRE1α; which are involved in hepatic ER stress. Taken together, our results showed the potentials of Uro-A and Uro-B in mitigating obesity symptoms and they could thus provide promising roles in the future as functional anti-obesity candidates.

Improvement Effects of Trehangelin A on High-Fat Diet Causing Metabolic Clinical Conditions

The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not trehangelin A (THG-A) is effective in treating the metabolic clinical condition caused by a high-fat diet. The body weight, epididymal adipose volume, alanine transaminase (ALT), total-cholesterol (T-CHO), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and glucose concentrations in serum increased in mice fed a high-fat diet compared to mice fed a control diet. On the other hand, adiponectin level in serum of mice fed a high-fat diet decreased compared to that of control mice. When mice fed a high-fat diet were intraperitoneally administered THG-A of 20 mg/kg three times per week, the levels of TG and glucose in serum were significantly reduced compared to those fed high-fat without THG-A. Interestingly, the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in serum were increased by THG-A administration in both mice fed a control diet and those fed high-fat diet. The decreased level of adiponectin by a high-fat diet was also recovered by THG-A treatment. The liver expression of mRNA from pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, were significantly increased in mice fed a high-fat diet compared to those fed a control diet. However, the increased IL-6 levels in mice fed a high-fat diet were significantly suppressed by THG-A treatment. Furthermore, the increased expression of TNF-α mRNA or COL1A2 mRNA by a high-fat diets tended to be decreased in mice treated with THG-A. These results show that THG-A treatment attenuates the progression of metabolic clinical conditions, suggesting its potential efficacy against obesity-related metabolic disorders.

Effects of pomegranate on lipid profiles: A systematic review of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To present a systematic review of randomised controlled trials examining the effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) on lipid profiles.

METHOD

The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, SCOPUS and conference proceedings were searched for relevant trials to June 2019. We included randomized controlled trials comparing pomegranate with placebo. The outcomes examined were effects on lipids level. Two authors screened titles for inclusion, extracted data and assessed the quality of the trials using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool. We used a random effects model to pool data and stratified trials to examine sources of statistical heterogeneity. To assess the quality of the evidence, we used the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS

Seventeen trials recruiting 763 subjects met the inclusion criteria. These trials varied in terms of the dosage form of pomegranate used, subjects recruited and trials duration. Meta-analyses of data did not show pomegranate produced a significant effect on the lipids level examined. The quality of evidence for all outcomes was low due to the imprecision of the pooled effect and the inconsistency within the included trials. The limited data on safety suggest only mild, transient and infrequent adverse events with the short-term use of pomegranate.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence does not show pomegranate has significant effects on serum lipid levels. The quality of evidence is poor to support the increasing use of pomegranate for hyperlipidaemia.