Raspberry juice consumption, oxidative stress and reduction of atherosclerosis risk factors in hypercholesterolemic golden Syrian hamsters

Resveratrol and beyond: The Effect of Natural Polyphenols on the Cardiovascular System: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unhealthy dietary habits have clearly been shown to contribute to the development of CVDs. Beyond the primary nutrients, a healthy diet is also rich in plant-derived compounds. Natural polyphenols, found in fruits, vegetables, and red wine, have a clear role in improving cardiovascular health. In this review, we strive to summarize the results of the relevant pre-clinical and clinical trials that focused on some of the most important natural polyphenols, such as resveratrol and relevant flavonoids. In addition, we aim to identify their common sources, biosynthesis, and describe their mechanism of action including their regulatory effect on signal transduction pathways. Finally, we provide scientific evidence regarding the cardiovascular benefits of moderate, long-term red wine consumption.

Effect of Carotenoids on Paraoxonase-1 Activity and Gene Expression

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is an antioxidant enzyme attached to HDL with an anti-atherogenic potential. It protects LDL and HDL from lipid peroxidation. The enzyme is sensitive to various modulating factors, such as genetic polymorphisms as well as pharmacological, dietary (including carotenoids), and lifestyle interventions. Carotenoids are nutritional pigments with antioxidant activity. The aim of this review was to gather evidence on their effect on the modulation of PON1 activity and gene expression. Carotenoids administered as naturally occurring nutritional mixtures may present a synergistic beneficial effect on PON1 status. The effect of carotenoids on the enzyme depends on age, ethnicity, gender, diet, and PON1 genetic variation. Carotenoids, especially astaxanthin, β-carotene, and lycopene, increase PON1 activity. This effect may be explained by their ability to quench singlet oxygen and scavenge free radicals. β-carotene and lycopene were additionally shown to upregulate PON1 gene expression. The putative mechanisms of such regulation involve PON1 CpG-rich region methylation, Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKKII) pathway induction, and upregulation via steroid regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2). More detailed and extensive research on the mechanisms of PON1 modulation by carotenoids may lead to the development of new targeted therapies for cardiovascular diseases.

Red Raspberry Extract Decreases Depression-Like Behavior in Rats by Modulating Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress

Objective

Red raspberry serves as a proven natural product to produce anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer functions, but limited findings are available on its effects on depression. This study, by using a chronic unpredictable mild stress- (CUMS-) induced depression model, thus investigated the effects and underlying mechanism of red raspberry extract (RRE) on depressive behavior, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Methods

Different treatments were given after random grouping of Sprague-Dawley rats, including no intervention (control), CUMS induction, and CUMS+different concentrations of RRE, and subsequently, depression-like behavior tests were performed. HE staining was designed to observe the pathological damage of the hippocampal tissue in rats. The levels of oxidative stress, endocrine hormones, and inflammatory factors were determined by biochemical assay and ELISA, and gene expression (mRNA and protein) in the hippocampal tissue by qRT-PCR and Western blot.

Results

On completion of CUMS treatment, the rats showed severe depression-like behavior, with obvious hippocampal tissue damage, oxidative inflammatory response, and endocrine imbalance. Importantly, RRE treatment significantly improved such depression-like behavior and attenuated histopathological damage in CUMS rats when reducing inflammation and oxidative stress and endocrine imbalance with upregulation of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and interleukin- (IL-) 10 and downregulation of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticosterone (CORT), malondialdehyde (MDA), IL-1β, cyclooxygenase- (COX-) 2, and human macrophage chemoattractant protein- (MCP-) 1. In addition, for CUMS rats, RRE was a contributor to increasingly expressed brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase 2 (TrkB), and p-mTOR but inhibited p-GSK-3β expression in the hippocampal tissue. All the above antidepressant effects of RRE were concentration-dependent.

Conclusion

By regulating neuroinflammation, oxidative stress response, endocrine level, and BDNF/TrkB level, RRE showed potential efficacy in alleviating depression-like behavior and histopathological damage of hippocampal tissue in CUMS rats by regulating the GSK3β and mTOR signaling pathways.

Effects of "Bacuri" Seed Butter (Platonia insignis Mart.) on Metabolic Parameters in Hamsters with Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolemia

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the treatment with bacuri seed butter (BB) on body weight, growth, body mass index, lipid profile, atherosclerotic indices, and liver function in dyslipidemic hamsters. Freshly weaned, male hamsters were divided into four groups: (1) normal group (NG)—maintained with standard chow (AIN-93G); (2) dyslipidemia group (DG)—maintained with hyperlipidemic chow (AIN-93G modified) throughout the follow-up period; (3) bacuri seed butter 25 mg/kg/day (BB-25); and (4) bacuri seed butter 50 mg/kg/day (BB-50). BB groups (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) were also maintained with hyperlipidemic chow throughout the follow-up period, and the treatment started after 21 days receiving a hyperlipidemic diet to induce hypercholesterolemia and maintained for 28 days. No significant differences in triglycerides and total cholesterol were observed for BB-25 and BB-50 groups when compared with NG and DG groups. On the contrary, BB-25 and BB-50 induced both increase of HDL-c (51.40 ± 1.69 and 51.00 ± 2.34, respectively) and decrease of LDL-c (103.80 ± 6.87 and 100.50 ± 3.95, respectively) when compared with DG (41.00 ± 2.94 and 132.70 ± 9.41, respectively). In addition, BB promoted a reduction in the risk of atherosclerotic disease by decreasing (p < 0.05) the atherogenic index, coronary artery risk index, and LDL/CT ratio (p < 0.05) and increasing HDL/CT ratio. On the contrary, no changes were observed in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels or in body weight, growth, body mass index, or liver function parameters. Thus, bacuri seed butter at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg/day has positive repercussions on the lipid profile, more precisely on plasma HDL-c and LDL-c, and additionally promotes reduction in the risk of atherosclerosis in hamsters.

Bioactivity of Dietary Polyphenols: The Role in LDL-C Lowering

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of the death around the world. An elevation of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. To achieve optimal plasma LDL-C levels, clinal therapies were investigated which targeted different metabolism pathways. However, some therapies also caused various adverse effects. Thus, there is a need for new treatment options and/or combination therapies to inhibit the LDL-C level. Dietary polyphenols have received much attention in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases due to their potential LDL-C lowering effects. However, the effectiveness and potential mechanisms of polyphenols in lowering LDL-C is not comprehensively summarized. This review focused on dietary polyphenols that could reduce LDL-C and their mechanisms of action. This review also discussed the limitations and suggestions regarding previous studies.

Antioxidant properties of anthocyanins and their mechanism of action in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis develops due to lipid accumulation in the arterial wall and sclerosis as result of increased hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress, lipid oxidation, and protein oxidation. However, improving antioxidant status through diet may prevent the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. It is believed that polyphenol-rich plants contribute to the inverse relationship between fruit and vegetable intake and chronic disease. Anthocyanins are flavonoid polyphenols with antioxidant properties that have been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The consumption of anthocyanins increases total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant defense enzymes, and HDL antioxidant properties by several measures in preclinical and clinical populations. Anthocyanins appear to impart antioxidant actions via direct antioxidant properties, as well as indirectly via inducing intracellular Nrf2 activation and antioxidant gene expression. These actions counter oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling in cells present in atherosclerotic plaques, including macrophages and endothelial cells. Overall, anthocyanins may protect against atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease through their effects on cellular antioxidant status, oxidative stress, and inflammation; however, their underlying mechanisms of action appear to be complex and require further elucidation.

Effect of Fortification with Raspberry Juice on the Antioxidant and Potentially Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Wafers Subjected to In Vitro Digestion

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of raspberry juice addition on the content of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of wafers. The research was carried out on non-supplemented wafers (control) and wafers in which water was replaced with raspberry juice in the amount of 10%, 20%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The potential bioavailability of the phenolic compounds after in vitro digestion was also determined. As shown by the consumer assessment, wafers in which the water was replaced with 100% raspberry juice turned out to be the best variant of the enriched wafers. The content of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins in the tested products increased with the increasing amount of raspberry juice added to the wafers. The fortification of the wafers with raspberry juice had a positive effect on the antioxidant activity, expressed as the ability to neutralize free radicals ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) and DPPH (di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium), the ability to chelate iron ions, and as the reduction power. The simulated digestion increased the content of phenolic compounds and increased the antioxidant activity of the wafers. The ability to inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (i.e., enzymes involved in the induction of inflammation), varied and depended on both the amount of raspberry juice added and the type of extract.

Kiwifruit Supplementation Increases the Activity of the Paraoxonase Enzyme and decreases Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein in High-Fat Diet Fed Hamsters

Background: It is shown that kiwifruit elevates serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and exhibits beneficial effects on human health due to its antioxidant potential. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the impact of kiwifruit on the activity of the paraoxonase 1 (PON1) enzyme, as a main antioxidant enzyme in HDL functionality, in a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods: To this end, 42 male Syrian hamsters were divided into 6 groups including hamsters receiving a normal diet (the control normal group), a regular diet supplemented with kiwifruit at two concentrations (i.e., 1.86 g/kg and 3.73 g/kg), a HFD comprised of 15% butterfat + 0.05% cholesterol (the control high-fat group), and a HFD supplemented with kiwifruit at two concentrations (i.e., 1.86 and 3.73 g/kg) for 8 weeks. Results: The results showed that supplementation of kiwifruit to the HFD increased the levels of HDL-C and remarkably reduced the concentrations of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) compared with the control-HF group. In addition, the paraoxonase activity of PON1 significantly increased in HFD supplemented with kiwifruit (1.86 g/kg), and finally, arylesterase (ARE) activity increased in all treated groups when compared with untreated groups. Conclusion: Our findings suggested that kiwifruit can improve the lipid profile and prevent oxidative stress-induced by lipid peroxidation in hamsters receiving HFD, thus increasing the ARE and paraoxonase activities of PON1.

Whole Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)-Enriched Diet Is Hepatoprotective in the Obese Zucker Rat, a Model of the Metabolic Syndrome

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a major risk factor of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). The effect of whole red raspberry (WRR) consumption on lipid metabolism was investigated in the obese Zucker rat (OZR), a model for the MetS. Male OZRs (n = 16) and their lean littermates (lean Zucker rat) (n = 16) at 8 weeks of age were placed on a control or an 8% WRR-enriched diet for 8 weeks. Plasma triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and non-HDL-C levels, and hepatic concentration of TG were measured. The expression of nine genes related to lipid metabolism was evaluated, both in liver and adipose tissue. A WRR-enriched diet reduced plasma cholesterol and HDL-C and increased plasma TG, while it decreased hepatic TG accumulation in the OZR. The OZR assigned to a WRR exhibited upregulation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (Mttp) and downregulation of fatty acid synthase (Fas) expression in the liver. Results showed a decrease in accumulation of liver TG and gene expression modulation of enzymes and transcription factors associated with lipid metabolism, suggesting a possible hepatoprotective role of a WRR-enriched diet.

Select Polyphenol-Rich Berry Consumption to Defer or Deter Diabetes and Diabetes-Related Complications

Berries are considered "promising functional fruits" due to their distinct and ubiquitous therapeutic contents of anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavanols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, hydroxycinnamic, ellagic acid derivatives, and organic acids. These polyphenols are part of berries and the human diet, and evidence suggests that their intake is associated with a reduced risk or the reversal of metabolic pathophysiologies related to diabetes, obesity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and hypertension. This work reviewed and summarized both clinical and non-clinical findings that the consumption of berries, berry extracts, purified compounds, juices, jams, jellies, and other berry byproducts aided in the prevention and or otherwise management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and related complications. The integration of berries and berries-derived byproducts into high-carbohydrate (HCD) and high-fat (HFD) diets, also reversed/reduced the HCD/HFD-induced alterations in glucose metabolism-related pathways, and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid oxidation in healthy/obese/diabetic subjects. The berry polyphenols also modulate the intestinal microflora ecology by opposing the diabetic and obesity rendered symbolic reduction of Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio, intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction-restoring bacteria, short-chain fatty acids, and organic acid producing microflora. All studies proposed a number of potential mechanisms of action of respective berry bioactive compounds, although further mechanistic and molecular studies are warranted. The metabolic profiling of each berry is also included to provide up-to-date information regarding the potential anti-oxidative/antidiabetic constituents of each berry.

Anthocyanins: A Comprehensive Review of Their Chemical Properties and Health Effects on Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Anthocyanins are a class of water-soluble flavonoids widely present in fruits and vegetables. Dietary sources of anthocyanins include red and purple berries, grapes, apples, plums, cabbage, or foods containing high levels of natural colorants. Cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, peonidin, petunidin, and pelargonidin are the six common anthocyanidins. Following consumption, anthocyanin, absorption occurs along the gastrointestinal tract, the distal lower bowel being the place where most of the absorption and metabolism occurs. In the intestine, anthocyanins first undergo extensive microbial catabolism followed by absorption and human phase II metabolism. This produces hybrid microbial-human metabolites which are absorbed and subsequently increase the bioavailability of anthocyanins. Health benefits of anthocyanins have been widely described, especially in the prevention of diseases associated with oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that health-promoting effects attributed to anthocyanins may also be related to modulation of gut microbiota. In this paper we attempt to provide a comprehensive view of the state-of-the-art literature on anthocyanins, summarizing recent findings on their chemistry, biosynthesis, nutritional value and on their effects on human health.

Insights into the major aroma-active compounds in clear red raspberry juice (Rubus idaeus L. cv. Heritage) by molecular sensory science approaches

The major aroma-active compounds in clear red raspberry juice were identified by molecular sensory science approaches. Thirty-one aroma-active compounds were identified using detection frequency analysis and aroma extract dilution analysis. Among them, 18 volatiles with aroma activity in red raspberry were identified for the first time, while 14 volatiles with odor activity values (OAVs) ≥ 1 were confirmed as the major aroma-active compounds. Three C6 aldehydes showed the highest detection frequencies of 8, and β-ionone exhibited the highest OAV of 9507 and flavor dilution factor of 512, which indicated that the floral and grassy note could be dominant in overall aroma. Quantitative descriptive analysis suggested that the grassy, floral, woody, and caramel-like notes can be simulated using aroma recombination model 1. Electronic nose analysis also demonstrated that model 1 had closer similarity to the original juice than others. The combination strategy used here would help improve the knowledge of red raspberry aroma.

Characterization of the nutrient profile of processed red raspberries for use in nutrition labeling and promoting healthy food choices

BACKGROUND:

Red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) contain varied nutrients and phytochemicals important for healthy aging. Processing berries extends their shelf-life and culinary applications, although information on nutritional content among processed forms are limited.

OBJECTIVE:

The main objective of the project was to conduct a market basket study to characterize nutrient content and variation in processed red raspberry (RRB) products (i.e., individually quick frozen (IQF), purée, concentrates). Secondary objectives were to provide new data to the USDA nutrient composition database on processed RRB, which is now complete, and to evaluate RRB forms relative to regulatory (US FDA) criteria for food labeling based on Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) recommendations expressed as % Daily Values (DV).

METHODS:

Processed raspberry product samples were obtained in 2017 from retail outlets, processing plants and distributors, in and outside the USA. Samples were analyzed by pre-qualified laboratories using pre-approved AOAC methods and validated HPLC methods.

RESULTS:

Nutrient variance in domestic compared to imported product was observed, but on average IQF and purée with seeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber based on FDA criteria of providing ≥20% DV, IQF and purée are good (10–19% DV) sources of copper, thiamin, riboflavin and folate, and all forms were excellent or good sources of vitamin C and manganese. IQF and puréed red raspberries may also be considered a valuable fruit source of lutein/zeaxanthin.

CONCLUSIONS:

Processed RRB are nutrient rich options for including in a diet for healthy aging.

Pinto Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Lower Non-HDL Cholesterol in Hamsters Fed a Diet Rich in Saturated Fat and Act on Genes Involved in Cholesterol Homeostasis

BACKGROUND

Pinto beans contain multiple active agents such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins, and have been shown to lower cholesterol, but the mechanisms involved in this effect have not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

This study was to investigate the changes in cholesterol metabolism in response to whole pinto beans (wPB) and their hulls (hPB) supplemented into a diet rich in saturated fat and the molecular mechanisms potentially responsible for these effects in hamsters.

METHODS

Forty-four 9-wk-old male Golden Syrian hamsters were randomly assigned to 4 diet groups (n = 11), including a 5% (wt:wt) fat diet [normal-fat diet (NF)], a 15% (wt:wt) fat diet [diet rich in saturated fat (HSF), saturated fatty acids accounted for 70% of total fatty acids], or HSF supplemented with 5% (wt:wt) wPB or 0.5% (wt:wt) hPB for 4 wk. Plasma, liver, intestinal, and fecal samples were collected to evaluate multiple cholesterol markers and gene targets.

RESULTS

The plasma non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL) concentration was significantly reduced in the wPB- and hPB-supplemented groups by 31.9 ± 3.5% and 53.6 ± 3.2%, respectively, compared with the HSF group (P < 0.01), to concentrations comparable with the NF group. The wPB-supplemented hamsters had significantly lower liver cholesterol (45.1%, P < 0.001) and higher fecal cholesterol concentrations (94.8%, P = 0.001) than those fed the HSF. The expressions of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase (Hmgcr) and small intestinal acyl-coenzyme A: cholesterol acyltransferase 2 (Acat2) were significantly decreased in animals administered wPB (by 89.1% and 63.8%, respectively) and hPB (by 72.9% and 47.7%, respectively) compared with their HSF-fed counterparts (P < 0.05). The wPB normalized the expression of Acat2 to the level of the NF group.

CONCLUSION

Pinto beans remediated high cholesterol induced by HSF in male hamsters by decreasing hepatic cholesterol synthesis and intestinal cholesterol absorption, effects which were partially exerted by the hulls.

Grinding levels of raspberry pomace affect intestinal microbial activity, lipid and glucose metabolism in Wistar rats

This study presents the effect of raspberry pomace and its grinding level on microbial activity in the gastrointestinal tract as well as on the parameters involved in the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism in Wistar rats. The nutritional experiment was performed using 24 male Wistar rats, which were divided into 3 groups of 8 animals each. The animals were fed a standard diet (C) or a modified diet containing 7% raspberry pomace subjected to standard (SG) or fine (FG) grinding. Finer grinding increased the concentration of polyphenols and altered the composition of the dietary fibre, thereby affecting the intestinal microbial activity and related mechanisms that regulate systemic parameters. The FG diet considerably increased the level of total ellagitannin metabolites in the colon (23.56 μg/g for SG and 79.54 μg/g for FG) and plasma (0.029 μg/mL for SG and 0.041 μg/mL for FG) and reduced β-glucuronidase and α-glucosidase activity (19.2 and 19.7 for SG and 13.3 and 8.7 μmol/h/g for FG, respectively) and short-chain fatty acid production (55.84 μmol/g for SG and 48.60 μmol/g for FG) in the caecum. Compared to the SG, the FG diet improved the antioxidant capacity of water-soluble substances in plasma (4.34 μg/mL for SG and 4.92 μg/mL for FG). Both diets with raspberry pomaces increased the plasma HDL cholesterol (0.48 mmol/L for C, 0.56 mmol/L for SG, 0.57 mmol/L for FG) and decreased the atherogenic index (AI = (TC-HDL)/HDL: 2.57 for C, 1.98 for SG, 2.00 for FG). The FG diet resulted in the lowest plasma glucose level (10.8 mmol/L for C, 8.2 mmol/L for SG, 7.3 mmol/L for FG). In conclusion, both diets with raspberry pomaces modulated intestinal microbial activity and related systemic parameters; however, FG pomace exhibited greater inhibitory effects than SG pomace in the lower gut environment and glucose metabolism.

Anthocyanins: From Sources and Bioavailability to Cardiovascular-Health Benefits and Molecular Mechanisms of Action

Anthocyanins are phytochemicals widely found in plant foods, with berries and fruit-derived beverages as the main dietary sources. Accumulating evidence suggests the positive role of anthocyanins in preserving cardiovascular health. Epidemiological data show an association between anthocyanin intake and lower risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular-disease-related mortality. Clinical studies report the beneficial effects of the consumption of different anthocyanin-rich sources on surrogate markers of cardiovascular risk. Animal and in vitro evidence suggest the protective role of anthocyanins in dysfunctions related to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Still, the underlying molecular mechanisms of anthocyanin action seem complex and are not entirely clear. This review aims to give a comprehensive update on anthocyanins and their cardioprotective properties. It provides information on their sources; quantities consumed through diet; absorption; bioavailability; cardiovascular properties; and underlying mechanisms of action, including their effects on gene and protein expression and their interactions with cell-signaling pathways and miRNAs.

Protective Role of Polyphenols against Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease

Aging is a major risk factor in the development of chronic diseases affecting various tissues including the cardiovascular system, muscle and bones. Age-related diseases are a consequence of the accumulation of cellular damage and reduced activity of protective stress response pathways leading to low-grade systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Both inflammation and oxidative stress are major contributors to cellular senescence, a process in which cells stop proliferating and become dysfunctional by secreting inflammatory molecules, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and extracellular matrix components that cause inflammation and senescence in the surrounding tissue. This process is known as the senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Thus, accumulation of senescent cells over time promotes the development of age-related diseases, in part through the SASP. Polyphenols, rich in fruits and vegetables, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities associated with protective effects against major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this review, we discuss molecular mechanisms by which polyphenols improve anti-oxidant capacity, mitochondrial function and autophagy, while reducing oxidative stress, inflammation and cellular senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs). We also discuss the therapeutic potential of polyphenols in reducing the effects of the SASP and the incidence of CVD.

Suppression of isoproterenol-induced cardiotoxicity in rats by raspberry ketone via activation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-α

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) controls the lipid and glucose metabolism and also affects inflammation, cell proliferation and apoptosis during cardiovascular disease. Raspberry ketone (RK) is a red raspberry (Rubusidaeus, Family-Rosaceae) plant constituent, which activates PPAR-α. This study was conducted to assess the cardioprotective action of RK against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiotoxicity. Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (six rats/group). Rats were orally administered with RK (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively) and fenofibrate (standard, 80 mg/kg) for 28 days and ISO was administered (85 mg/kg, subcutaneously) on 27th and 28th day. Administration of ISO in rats significantly altered hemodynamic and electrocardiogram patterns, total antioxidant capacity, PPAR-α, and apolipoprotein C-III levels. These myocardial aberrations were further confirmed during infarct size, heart weight to body weight ratio and immunohistochemical assessments (caspase-3 and nuclear factor-κB). RK pretreatment (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly protected rats against oxidative stress, inflammation, and dyslipidemia caused by ISO as demonstrated by change in hemodynamic, biochemical and histological parameters. The results so obtained were quite comparable with fenofibrate. Moreover, RK was found to have binding affinity with PPAR-α, as confirmed by docking analysis. PPAR-α expression and concentration was also found increased in presence of RK which gave impression that RK probably showed cardioprotection via PPAR-α activation, however direct binding study of RK with PPAR-α is needed to confirm this assumption.

Association between berries intake and cardiovascular diseases risk factors: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials

The main goal of this work was to clarify the effects of the consumption of berries on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors by performing a systematic review according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) statement, followed by a meta-analysis and a trial sequential analysis (TSA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library between April and June 2016. To be included, RCTs had to report 1 or more of the following outcomes: total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL), LDL-cholesterol (LDL), triglycerides (TG), blood pressure (BP), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM), glucose, insulin, apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I) or apolipoprotein B (Apo B). It was observed that the intake of berries reduces TC, LDL, TG, and BP while increasing the level of HDL, suggesting a beneficial effect on the control of CVDs' risk factors. Thus, the intake of berries as nutraceuticals or functional foods could be suggested for the prevention and control of CVDs.

Raspberry ketone protects against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats

AIM

The cardioprotective role of raspberry ketone (RK) against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats was assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into Group I - Vehicle control; Group II - Toxic control ISO (85mg/kg, s.c.); Group III, IV and V - RK (50, 100 and 200mg/kg, respectively) with ISO; Group VI- RK (200mg/kg) alone; Group VII - Propranolol (10mg/kg) with ISO; and Group VIII - Propranolol (10mg/kg) alone. After twenty-four hours of the last dose, animals were sacrificed and creatine kinase-MB, lactate dehydrogenase, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density-lipoprotein, low-density-lipoprotein, very-low-density-lipoprotein, malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase, nitric oxide, histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis (tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase) were performed.

KEY FINDINGS

Treatment with ISO significantly deviated the biochemical parameters from the normal levels, which were considerably restored by RK at 100 and 200mg/kg doses. 50mg/kg dose, however, did not demonstrate any significant cardioprotective action. The histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis further substantiated these findings.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study showed a dose-dependent reduction in oxidative stress, inflammation and dyslipidemia by RK in ISO-intoxicated rats, which signifies that RK from the European red raspberry plant might be a valuable entity for the management of MI.

Bioavailable Concentrations of Delphinidin and Its Metabolite, Gallic Acid, Induce Antioxidant Protection Associated with Increased Intracellular Glutathione in Cultured Endothelial Cells

Despite limited bioavailability and rapid degradation, dietary anthocyanins are antioxidants with cardiovascular benefits. This study tested the hypothesis that the antioxidant protection conferred by the anthocyanin, delphinidin, is mediated by modulation of endogenous antioxidant defences, driven by its degradation product, gallic acid. Delphinidin was found to degrade rapidly (t1/2 ~ 30 min), generating gallic acid as a major degradation product. Both delphinidin and gallic acid generated oxygen-centred radicals at high (100 μM) concentrations in vitro. In a cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cell model of oxidative stress, the antioxidant protective effects of both delphinidin and gallic acid displayed a hormesic profile; 100 μM concentrations of both were cytotoxic, but relatively low concentrations (100 nM–1 μM) protected the cells and were associated with increased intracellular glutathione. We conclude that delphinidin is intrinsically unstable and unlikely to confer any direct antioxidant activity in vivo yet it offered antioxidant protection to cells at low concentrations. This paradox might be explained by the ability of the degradation product, gallic acid, to confer benefit. The findings are important in understanding the mode of protection conferred by anthocyanins and reinforce the necessity to conduct in vitro experiments at biologically relevant concentrations.

Red raspberry decreases heart biomarkers of cardiac remodeling associated with oxidative and inflammatory stress in obese diabetic db/db mice

Red raspberries decreased the expression of proteins linked to inflammatory/stress response and cardiac remodeling in hearts of obese diabetic mice.

Red Raspberries and Their Bioactive Polyphenols: Cardiometabolic and Neuronal Health Links

Diet is an essential factor that affects the risk of modern-day metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and Alzheimer disease. The potential ability of certain foods and their bioactive compounds to reverse or prevent the progression of the pathogenic processes that underlie these diseases has attracted research attention. Red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) are unique berries with a rich history and nutrient and bioactive composition. They possess several essential micronutrients, dietary fibers, and polyphenolic components, especially ellagitannins and anthocyanins, the latter of which give them their distinctive red coloring. In vitro and in vivo studies have revealed various mechanisms through which anthocyanins and ellagitannins (via ellagic acid or their urolithin metabolites) and red raspberry extracts (or the entire fruit) could reduce the risk of or reverse metabolically associated pathophysiologies. To our knowledge, few studies in humans are available for evaluation. We review and summarize the available literature that assesses the health-promoting potential of red raspberries and select components in modulating metabolic disease risk, especially cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and Alzheimer disease-all of which share critical metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory links. The body of research is growing and supports a potential role for red raspberries in reducing the risk of metabolically based chronic diseases.

Ellagitannins and Flavan-3-ols from Raspberry Pomace Modulate Caecal Fermentation Processes and Plasma Lipid Parameters in Rats

Raspberry pomace is a source of polyphenols, which nutritional and health promoting properties are not sufficiently known. The aim of this 8-weeks study was to scrutinize if raspberry extracts (REs) with different ellagitannins to flavan-3-ols ratios might favorably affect the caecal fermentation processes and blood lipid profile in rats. Forty male Wistar rats were fed with a standard diet or its modification with two types of REs (E1 and E2) characterized by different ratios of ellagitannins to flavan-3-ols (7.7 and 3.1 for E1 and E2, respectively) and added to a diet at two dosages of polyphenolic compounds (0.15 and 0.30% of a diet; L and H treatments, respectively). Irrespective of polyphenols dietary level, both REs reduced the activity of bacterial β-glucuronidase, increased production of butyric acid in the caecum and reduced triacylglycerols in blood plasma. The E1 treatment at both dosages caused more effective reduction in the concentration of ammonia and elevated acetate level in the caecal digesta than E2. On the other hand, only the E2 treatment lowered value of the atherogenic index when compared with control group. When comparing dosages of REs, a higher one was more potent to reduce the activity of bacterial β-glucosidase, β-, α-galactosidase and lowered value of the HDL profile in plasma. To conclude, REs may favorably modulate the activity of the caecal microbiota and blood lipid profile in rats; however, the intensity of these effects may be related to the dosages of dietary polyphenols and to their profile, e.g., ellagitannins to flavan-3-ols ratio.

Dietary Supplementation with Raspberry Seed Oil Modulates Liver Functions, Inflammatory State, and Lipid Metabolism in Rats

BACKGROUND

Although raspberry seed oil (RO) is rich in essential fatty acids, there is a lack of experiments assessing benefits of its consumption.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with RO on healthy rats and rats with low-grade systemic inflammation, liver disorders, and dyslipidemia induced by a high-fat/low-fiber (HF/LF) diet.

METHODS

Thirty-two rats were allocated into 4 groups of 8 rats each and fed for 8 wk a control (C; 7% lard and 5% cellulose) or HF/LF (21% lard and 2% cellulose) diet or modifications of these diets in which 7% RO replaced all (C+RO group) or a proportion of (HF/LF+RO group) the lard. Effects of diet and RO and their interaction on bacterial activity and metabolite formations in the distal intestine, liver fat and glutathione concentration, plasma lipid profile, transaminase activities, and plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) were tested.

RESULTS

Dietary RO decreased plasma alanine and aspartate transaminase activities (43.4 and 157 vs. 25.6 and 115 U/L, respectively; P < 0.05 and P < 0.005) and plasma TNF-α and triglyceride concentrations (132 pg/mL and 2.07 mmol/L vs. 86.5 pg/mL and 0.99 mmol/L, respectively; P < 0.05). In livers of the C+RO group, the fat concentration was decreased, whereas the glutathione to glutathione disulfide ratio was increased compared with the C group (30.1% and 6.20 μmol/g vs. 23.3% and 7.25 μmol/g, respectively; P ≤ 0.05); however, those differences were not observed between the HF/LF groups (P-interaction < 0.05). In the HF/LF+RO group, the plasma CRP concentration was lower than in the HF/LF group (88.1 vs. 765 pg/mL; P ≤ 0.05) and similar to that in the C and C+RO groups (158 and 128 pg/mL, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Dietary RO improves plasma lipid profile and liver functions and reduces low-grade systemic inflammation in rats; however, the extent of these beneficial effects is partly dependent on the diet type.

PON1 and Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be highly effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has been implicated in the development of those conditions, especially atherosclerosis. The present work describes a systematic review of current evidence supporting the influence of Mediterranean diet and its constituents on this enzyme. Despite the differential response of some genetic polymorphisms, the Mediterranean diet has been shown to exert a protective action on this enzyme. Extra virgin olive oil, the main source of fat, has been particularly effective in increasing PON1 activity, an action that could be due to low saturated fatty acid intake, oleic acid enrichment of phospholipids present in high-density lipoproteins that favor the activity, and increasing hepatic PON1 mRNA and protein expressions induced by minor components present in this oil. Other Mediterranean diet constituents, such as nuts, fruits and vegetables, have been effective in modulating the activity of the enzyme, pomegranate and its compounds being the best characterized items. Ongoing research on compounds isolated from all these natural products, mainly phenolic compounds and carotenoids, indicates that some of them are particularly effective, and this may enhance the use of nutraceuticals and functional foods capable of potentiating PON1 activity.

CD39/NTPDase-1 expression and activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells are differentially regulated by leaf extracts from Rubus caesius and Rubus idaeus

Many experimental studies have demonstrated the favorable biological activities of plants belonging to the genus Rubus, but little is known of the role of Rubus leaf extracts in the modulation of the surface membrane expression and activity of endothelial apyrase. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of 1–15 μg/ml Rubus extracts on CD39 expression and enzymatic activity, and on the activation (ICAM-1 expression) and viability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). The polyphenolic contents and antioxidative capacities of extracts from dewberry (R. caesius L.) and raspberry (R. idaeus L.) leaves were also investigated. The techniques applied were flow cytometry (endothelial surface membrane expression of ICAM-1 and CD39), malachite green assay (CD39 activity), HPLC-DAD (quantitative analysis of polyphenolic extract), ABTS, DPPH and FRAP spectrometric assays (antioxidant capacity), and the MTT test (cell viability). Significantly increased CD39 expressions and significantly decreased ATPDase activities were found in the cells treated with 15 μg/ml of either extract compared to the results for the controls. Neither of the extracts affected cell proliferation, but both significantly augmented endothelial cell ICAM-1 expression. The overall antioxidant capacities of the examined extracts remained relatively high and corresponded well to the determined total polyphenol contents. Overall, the results indicate that under in vitro conditions dewberry and raspberry leaf extracts have unfavorable impact on endothelial cells.

Functional foods-based diet as a novel dietary approach for management of type 2 diabetes and its complications: A review

Type 2 diabetes is a complicated metabolic disorder with both short- and long-term undesirable complications. In recent years, there has been growing evidence that functional foods and their bioactive compounds, due to their biological properties, may be used as complementary treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this review, we have highlighted various functional foods as missing part of medical nutrition therapy in diabetic patients. Several in vitro, animal models and some human studies, have demonstrated that functional foods and nutraceuticals may improve postprandial hyperglycemia and adipose tissue metabolism modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Functional foods may also improve dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, and attenuate oxidative stress and inflammatory processes and subsequently could prevent the development of long-term diabetes complications including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy and retinopathy. In conclusion available data indicate that a functional foods-based diet may be a novel and comprehensive dietary approach for management of type 2 diabetes.

Berry (poly)phenols and cardiovascular health

Berries are a rich source of (poly)phenols, including anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, procyanidins, flavonols, ellagitannins, and hydroxycinnamates. Epidemiological evidence indicates that the cardiovascular health benefits of diets rich in berries are related to their (poly)phenol content. These findings are supported by small-scale randomized controlled studies (RCTs) that have shown improvements in several surrogate markers of cardiovascular risk such as blood pressure, endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and blood lipids after acute and short-term consumption of blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, or purified anthocyanin extracts in healthy or diseased individuals. However, firm conclusions regarding the preventive value of berry (poly)phenols cannot be drawn due to the small number of existing studies and limitations that apply to the available data, such as lack of controls or failure to assess the absorption and metabolism of (poly)phenols. Although the current evidence is promising, more long-term RCTs are needed to establish the role of berry (poly)phenols to support cardiovascular health.

Effects of raspberry fruit extracts and ellagic acid on respiratory burst in murine macrophages

The main finding of our study is that raspberry extracts and ellagic acid inhibit reactive oxygen species production in PMA stimulated macrophages.

Ozone oxidative preconditioning prevents atherosclerosis development in New Zealand White rabbits

Atherosclerosis is a major cause of death in the Western World. It is known that Lipofundin 20% induces atherosclerotic lesions, whereas ozone at low doses has been satisfactorily used in the prevention of oxidative stress-associated pathologies, such as coronary artery diseases. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effects of ozone therapy on Lipofundin-induced atherosclerotic lesions in New Zealand White rabbits. Ozone (1 mg), mixed with oxygen as passive carrier, was administered by rectal insufflation during 15 sessions in 5 weeks. Then, the animals were intravenously treated with 2 mL/kg of Lipofundin, daily during 8 days. Animals were euthanized and eosin and hematoxylin staining was used for aortic histopathological analysis. The biomarkers of oxidative stress and lipid profile in serum were determined by spectrophotometric techniques. The results demonstrated that ozone induced inhibitory effects on aortic lesions formation. On the other hand, a reduction of biomolecular damage and an increase of antioxidant systems were observed at the end of the experiment. The serum lipids profiles were not modified after only 1 cycle of ozone treatment. Our results reinforced the hypotheses that antioxidant effects induced by ozone in the context of atherosclerosis demonstrate the antiatherogenic properties of the gas in the experimental conditions of this study.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in vitro activities of phenolic compounds from tropical highland blackberry (Rubus adenotrichos)

This study evaluates the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in a polyphenol extract from blackberries. The antioxidant activity measured via oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) was higher for the blackberry extract (4339 ± 144 μM TE/g) than for quercetin and ellagic acid. The blackberry phenolic compounds protected liposomes and liver homogenates against lipid peroxidation; in both models, the antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 7.0 ± 0.5 and 20.3 ± 4.2 μg/mL, respectively) was greater than that found with Trolox. The extract inhibited superoxide production by NADPH oxidase in THP-1 cells and nitrite production in J774A.1 cells stimulated with LPS+IFNγ, with nitrite production decreasing after 4 h of incubation with the extract, mainly through a strong scavenging activity. However, 24 h of treatment reduced the amount of nitrites (IC₅₀ = 45.6 ± 1.2 μg/mL) because of a down-regulation of iNOS protein expression, as demonstrated by Western blotting. The inhibitory activities found in blackberry phenols suggest a potential beneficial effect against oxidative stress and inflammatory processes.

Anti-obesity effects of Rapha diet® preparation in mice fed a high-fat diet

The anti-obesity activities of Rapha diet® preparation containing silkworm pupa peptide, Garcinia cambogia, white bean extract, mango extract, raspberry extract, cocoa extract, and green tea extract were investigated in mice with dietary obesity. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) containing 3% Rapha diet® preparation for 8 weeks, and blood and tissue parameters of obesity were analyzed. The HFD markedly enhanced body weight gain by increasing the weights of epididymal, perirenal, and mesenteric adipose tissues. The increased body weight gain induced by HFD was significantly reduced by feeding Rapha diet® preparation, in which decreases in the weight of abdominal adipose tissue and the size of abdominal adipocytes were confirmed by microscopic examination. Long-term feeding of HFD increased blood triglycerides and cholesterol levels, leading to hepatic lipid accumulation. However, Rapha diet® preparation not only reversed the blood lipid levels, but also attenuated hepatic steatosis. The results indicate that Rapha diet® preparation could improve HFD-induced obesity by reducing both lipid accumulation and the size of adipocytes.

Effects of orange juice and hesperetin on serum paraoxonase activity and lipid profile in hyperuricemic rats

INTRODUCTION

Hypouricemic, antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitory effects of orange juice and hesperetin have been already indicated. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of orange juice and hesperetin on paraoxonase and arylesterase activity and lipid profile of hyperuricemic rats.

METHODS

Forty eight male Wistar rats were divided into 8 equal groups of healthy control, healthy+orange juice, healthy+hesperetin, healthy+allopurinol, hyperuricemic control, hyperuricemic+orange juice, hyperurice-mic+hesperetin and hyperuricemic+allopurinol. Hyperuricemia was induced using potassi-um oxonate (250 mg/kg ip). The treatments were carried out by daily gavage of 5 ml/kg orange juice, 5 mg/kg hesperetin and 5 mg/kg allopurinol for 2 weeks. Paraoxonase activi-ty in serum was measured spectrophotometrically using paraoxon and phenylacetate as substrates. Serum lipids levels were determined using enzymatic colorimetric methods.

RESULTS

Hyperuricemia-induced reduction of paraoxonase and arylesterase activity was restored after treatment with orange juice and hesperetin (p<0.05). The effect of both treatments on lipid profile was marginal and only orange juice could significantly increase the levels of HDL-C.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation of orange juice and hesperetin could restore paraoxonase and arylesterase activity in hyperuricemic rats. Orange juice could also partially improve the lipid profile. These effects could have major implications with respect to the prevention of cardiovascular disease in hyperuricemic patients. However, more studies are needed in future investigations.