Anti-aging effects of the fermented anthocyanin extracts of purple sweet potato on Caenorhabditis elegans

Sake lees extract obtained using a novel continuous phase-transition extraction method: evaluation of its bioactive composition, anti-aging efficacy and mechanism

For the high-value utilization of sake lees (SL), it is essential to explore its potential as a resource for anti-aging bioactives. However, the efficient extraction of SL, the compositional benefits provided, and the resulting anti-aging efficacy in vivo remain to be explored. Thus, a novel continuous phase-transition extraction (CPE) method, an amino acid analyzer, LC-MS, and GC-MS, as well as a classic anti-aging model of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) were adopted. The results showed that compared to ultrasound-assisted extraction, the total amino acid content of SL extract (SLE) obtained using 80% ethanol in CPE increased by 39.64%, with a notable enhancement in the in vitro scavenging ability of free radicals (p < 0.05). In SLE, the hydrophobic, acidic, and basic amino acids with antioxidant activity accounted for 77.11% of total amino acids. New potential anti-aging compounds were identified, including Lys-Gln, Leu-Arg-Lys, and sphinganine. In particular, 4 mg mL-1 SLE not only promoted a 19.32% increase in the lifespan of C. elegans by enhancing oxidative stress and neuroprotective effects but also ameliorated age-related phenotypes like motoricity and age pigment. Further exploration revealed that the efficacy of SLE is mediated by SKN-1/Nrf2 and HSF-1 pathways, which can be confirmed by the upregulation of key genes, such as skn-1 and hsf-1, especially by inducing a 72.73% increase in nuclear transfer of the transcription factor SKN-1/Nrf2. Taken together, SLE obtained by CPE was abundant in bioactives and contains novel components, thus exerting prominent anti-aging effects in vivo. This study provides a new way to obtain anti-aging active substances efficiently, which is beneficial for application in the fields of health foods and cosmetics.

Effect of structural changes of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide before and after processing on anti-aging activity

Rehmannia glutinosa is often used to delay aging in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The processing methods utilized in TCM can enhance its anti-aging properties. Polysaccharides are the primary active constituents of R. glutinosa. Against this background, this study aims to investigate the alterations in polysaccharide structure before and after the processing of R. glutinosa, as well as the correlation between aging activity and polysaccharide structure. In this paper, Rehmanniae Radix polysaccharide (RGP50-2) and Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata(SDP50-2) were purified from R. glutinosa before and after processing. Structural analysis showed that compared with RGP50-2, the molecular weight of SDP50-2 (9.8-9.6 kDa) decreased, and the content of Ara (22.5 %-55.49 %) increased. NMR results show that the main chains of RGP50-2 and SDP50-2 are both →6)-β-Galp-(1→, →3,4,6)-α-Galp-(1→ and →2,3,5)-α-Araf-(1→, but the branching degree of SDP50-2 is lower. Pharmacological assessments showed that SDP50-2 had superior anti-aging activity over RGP50-2 by modulating the IIS signaling pathway. In conclusion, processing significantly alters the chemical structure of R. glutinosa polysaccharides, enhancing their anti-aging efficacy. Our research provides a theoretical framework and a reference for optimizing processing techniques and advancing development strategies for R. glutinosa polysaccharides.

Transcriptomic Approaches to Investigate the Anti-Aging Effects of Blueberry Anthocyanins in a Caenorhabditis Elegans Aging Model

This study investigates the anti-aging effects of various concentrations of blueberry anthocyanins (BA) on the lifespan and health-related phenotypes of Caenorhabditis elegans. Blueberry anthocyanins were administered at concentrations of 50.0 μg/mL, 200.0 μg/mL, and 500.0 μg/mL, and their effects on nematode lifespan, locomotion, pharyngeal pumping rate, and the accumulation of lipofuscin and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were examined. Transcriptomic analysis was conducted to explore the regulatory effects of BA on anti-aging molecular pathways and key genes in C. elegans. Results showed a significant, dose-dependent extension of lifespan, improvement in locomotion and pharyngeal pumping rate, and reduction in lipofuscin and ROS accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that BA activated anti-aging pathways such as FOXO, IIS, and PI3K/Akt, upregulating critical genes like daf-16. These findings highlight the potential of blueberry anthocyanins as promising anti-aging agents through multiple physiological and molecular mechanisms.

Purple sweet potato anthocyanins normalize the blood glucose concentration and restore the gut microbiota in mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

This study investigated the effects of purple sweet potato anthocyanins (PSPA) in a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mouse model.

Methods

Sixty-five male mice were randomly divided into one control group and four experimental groups, which were fed with a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to induce T2DM. The model mice were treated with 0 (M), 227.5 (LP), 455 (MP), or 910 (HP) mg/kg PSPA for ten days. ELISA, 16S rRNA sequencing, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to assess blood biochemical parameters, gut microbial composition, and liver tissue structure, respectively.

Results

The FBG concentration was significantly decreased in the LP (6.32 ± 1.05 mmol/L), MP (6.32 ± 1.05 mmol/L), and HP (5.65 ± 0.83 mmol/L) groups; the glycosylated hemoglobin levels were significantly decreased in the HP group (14.43 ± 7.12 pg/mL) compared with that in the M group (8.08 ± 1.04 mmol/L; 27.20 ± 7.72 pg/mL; P < 0.05). The PSPA treated groups also increased blood glutathione levels compared with M. PSPA significantly affected gut microbial diversity. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio decreased by 38.9 %, 49.2 %, and 15.9 % in the LP, MP, and HP groups compared with that in the M group (0.62). The PSPAs treated groups showed an increased relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_Clostridium, Butyricimonas, and Akkermansia and decreased abundance of nine bacterial genera, including Staphylococcus.

Conclusion

PSPA reduced blood glucose levels, increased serum antioxidant enzymes, and optimized the diversity and structure of the gut microbiota in mice with T2DM.

Unlocking the potential of chicken liver byproducts: Identification of antioxidant peptides through in silico approaches and anti-aging effects of a selected peptide in Caenorhabditis elegans

Chicken meat processing generates a substantial number of byproducts, which are either underutilized or improperly disposed. In this study, we employed in silico approaches to identify antioxidant peptides in chicken liver byproducts. Notably, the peptide WYR exhibited remarkable 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging activity with an IC50 of 0.13 ± 0.01 mg/mL and demonstrated stability under various conditions, including thermal, pH, NaCl, and simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Molecular docking analysis revealed significant hydrogen bonding interactions, while molecular dynamics showed differential stability with ABTS and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). WYR exhibited improved stress resistance, decreased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), elevated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and modulated the expression of crucial genes through the insulin/insulin-like growth factor (IIS) signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and heat shock transcription factor-1 (HSF-1) pathways. These effects collectively contributed to the extension of Caenorhabditis elegans' lifespan. This study not only provides an effective method for antioxidant peptide analysis but also highlights the potential for enhancing the utilization of poultry byproducts.

Research on Phenolic Content and Its Antioxidant Activities in Fermented Rosa rugosa 'Dianhong' Petals with Brown Sugar

Fermented Rosa rugosa 'Dianhong' petals with brown sugar, a biologically active food popularized in Dali Prefecture, Northwest Yunnan, China, are rich in bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols, exhibiting strong antioxidant activity. This study evaluated their antioxidant activities, total phenolic contents, and concentrations of polyphenols at different fermentation conditions using different assays: DPPH free-radical scavenging activity, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), Folin-Ciocalteu assays, and HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD methods. The results indicated that fermentation significantly increased (p < 0.05) the antioxidant activity and polyphenol concentration of R. rugosa 'Dianhong'. Furthermore, Saccharomyces rouxii TFR-1 fermentation achieved optimal bioactivity earlier than natural fermentation. Overall, we found that the use of Saccharomyces rouxii (TFR-1) is a more effective strategy for the production of polyphenol-rich fermented R. rugosa 'Dianhong' petals with brown sugar compared to natural fermentation.

Artemisia argyi extract exerts antioxidant properties and extends the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster

BACKGROUND

Chinese mugwort (Artemisia argyi) possesses extensive pharmacological activities associated with anti-tumour, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-ageing effects of A. argyi extract (AAE) on the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) ageing model by detecting antioxidant enzyme activities and the mRNA level of antioxidant genes.

RESULTS

AAE could significantly lengthen the mean lifespan, 50% survival days, and maximum lifespan of D. melanogaster, especially when the amount of AAE added reached 6.68 mg mL-1, the mean lifespan of both female and male flies increased by 23.74% and 22.30%, respectively, indicating the effective life extension effect of AAE. At the same time, AAE could improve the climbing ability and tolerance to hydrogen peroxide in D. melanogaster. In addition, the addition of AAE effectively increased the activities of copper-zinc-containing superoxide dismutase, manganese-containing superoxide dismutase and catalase in D. melanogaster and reduced the contents of malondialdehyde. Moreover, when reared with diets containing AAE, the expression of antioxidant-related genes SOD1, SOD2 and CAT was up-regulated in D. melanogaster and down-regulated for MTH genes.

CONCLUSION

The study indicates that AAE effectively enhances the antioxidant capacity of D. melanogaster and has potential applications as an antioxidant and anti-ageing agent in the nutraceutical industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of dietary restriction on health span in Caenorhabditis elegans: A systematic review

Dietary restriction (DR) interventions have demonstrated their efficacy in extending lifespan; however, the association between lifespan extension and health span remains unclear. This article aims to analyze the relationship between DR-induced lifespan and health span in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a widely used animal model in lifespan studies. By examining various parameters such as lipofuscin accumulation (an aging marker) and locomotor and feeding capacities (indicators of muscle degradation rate), we have compiled papers that investigate and report on these DR-induced effects.The majority of the papers reviewed consistently demonstrate that DR improves both lifespan and health span in C. elegans. Worms subjected to DR exhibit slower lipofuscin accumulation compared to those fed ad libitum, indicating a reduction in age-related cellular damage. Additionally, DR-treated worms display a higher locomotion capacity, suggesting a slower rate of muscle degradation. However, it is worth noting that there are some discrepancies among the papers regarding feeding capacity. These contradictions can be attributed to the different methods employed to initiate DR. While many approaches slow muscle degeneration and enhance pumping rates through adaptation to limited food sources, other methods, such as using eat-2 mutant worms or interventions that mimic the effects of eat-2, reduce feeding capacity and consequently restrict food intake. In conclusion, the findings suggest a strong correlation between DR-induced longevity and the extension of health span in C. elegans, as evidenced by improvements in various health span parameters. DR interventions not only extend lifespan but also mitigate age-related markers and preserve locomotor capacity. Although conflicting results are observed regarding feeding capacity, the overall evidence supports the notion that DR promotes healthier aging in this animal model.

Effects of the dipeptides comprising leucine and lysine on lifespan and age-related stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

The aging process is affected by various stressors. An increase in oxidative stress is related to the impairment of physiological functions and enhancement of glycative stress. Food-derived bioactive peptides have various physiological functions, including antioxidant activities. Dipeptides comprising Leu and Lys (LK and KL, respectively) have been isolated from foods; however, their physiological properties remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant/antiglycation activity of dipeptides and their antiaging effects using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Both dipeptides showed antioxidant activities against several reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro. In particular, the scavenging activity of LK against superoxide radicals was higher than KL did. Moreover, dipeptides suppressed advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation in the BSA-glucose model. In the lifespan assays using wild-type C. elegans, both LK and KL significantly prolonged the mean lifespan by 20.9% and 11.7%, respectively. In addition, LK decreased intracellular ROS and superoxide radical levels in C. elegans. Blue autofluorescence, an indicator of glycation in C. elegans with age, was also suppressed by LK. These results suggest that dipeptides, notably LK, show an antiaging effect by suppressing oxidative and glycative stress. Our findings suggest that such dipeptides can be used as a novel functional food ingredient. Food-derived dipeptide Leu-Lys (LK) and Lys-Leu (KL) exert antioxidant and antiglycation activity in vitro. Treatment with LK prolonged the mean lifespan and maximum lifespan of C. elegans more than that of KL. Intracellular ROS and blue autofluorescence levels (indicator of aging) were suppressed by LK.

Anti-senescence effects of Rhodiola crenulate extracts on LO2 cells and bioactive compounds

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) is a traditional herb, used in Tibetan medicine, has shown promise efficacy in physical performance improvement, work capacity enhancement, fatigue elimination, and altitude sickness prevention. Also, Rc exhibited therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases. However, relevant researches on Rc and their bioactive components are quite few and needs further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between phytochemical profiles and their activities of Rc extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rc extracts prepared by solvents with various hydrophilicity (i.e. aqueous ethanol (70%, v/v), water, and ethyl acetate), and their chemical compositions and specific compounds were analyzed by chemical analysis method and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The regulate effects of Rc extracts on senescence and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the models of LO₂ cells and Caenorhabditis elegans.

RESULTS

The 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better regulating effects on senescence via the assays of senescence -associated β-galactosidase (SAβG) staining and lifespan, which was consistent with the higher antioxidant activities observed based on the results of antioxidant assays. A total of 14 phytochemicals have been identified in 70% ethanol extracts, whereas the other two extracts contained much fewer compounds in varieties. Phytochemical profile of water extract was similar to the first half (polar compounds, running time: 0-6 min) of 70% ethanol extract profile, while those of ethyl acetate extract was consistent with its second half (more nonpolar compounds, running time: 6-12 min).

CONCLUSIONS

The 14 phytochemicals in Rc might exhibit additive or synergistic effects on senescence regulating and antioxidant activities, providing theoretical basis for daily administration of Rc.

Anti-aging effects and mechanisms of anthocyanins and their intestinal microflora metabolites

Aging, a natural and inevitable physiological process, is the primary risk factor for all age-related diseases; it severely threatens the health of individuals and places a heavy burden on the public health-care system. Thus, strategies to extend the lifespan and prevent and treat age-related diseases have been gaining increasing scientific interest. Anthocyanins (ACNs) are a subclass of flavonoids widely distributed in fruits and vegetables. Growing evidence suggests that ACNs delay aging and relieve age-related diseases. However, owing to the low bioavailability of ACNs, their gut metabolites have been proposed to play a critical role in mediating health benefits. In this review, we introduce the biological fate of ACNs after consumption and highlight ACNs metabolites (phenolic acids) from intestinal microorganisms. Additionally, ACNs and gut metabolites exhibit outstanding anti-aging ability in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, and mouse models, probably associated with increasing antioxidation, anti-inflammation, protein homeostasis, antiglycation, mitochondrial function, and inhibition of insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS). ACNs and gut metabolites have great application prospects as functional foods and drugs to delay aging and manage age-related diseases. Further investigation should focus on the interaction between ACNs and gut microbiota, including clarifying the complex metabolic pathway and maximizing the health effects of ACNs.

Protective Effect of Bilberry Anthocyanin Extracts on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Intestinal Damage in Drosophila melanogaster

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic recurrent disease that can be controlled by various natural extracts. Anthocyanins (ANCs) from bilberry have significant antioxidant capacity and are widely used as food colors and antioxidants. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of bilberry anthocyanin extracts (BANCs) against dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced intestinal inflammation in a Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) model, and the effects on the lifespan, antioxidant capacity, intestinal characteristics, and microbiome and gene expression profiles were analyzed to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms. In DSS-induced normal and axenic D. melanogaster, BANCs significantly increased the survival rate, maintained the intestinal morphology and integrity, and reduced the number of dead intestinal epithelial cells and the ROS level of these cells. BANC supplementation had no significant effect on the intestinal microflora of DSS-induced D. melanogaster, as demonstrated by a 16S rDNA analysis, but improved the antioxidant capacity by activating the relative gene expression of NRF2 signaling pathways in the intestine of D. melanogaster with DSS-induced inflammation. Therefore, the results demonstrate that BANCs effectively alleviate intestinal inflammatory injury induced by DSS and improve the antioxidant capacity of D. melanogaster by modulating NRF2 signaling pathways, and could thus promote the application of BANCs as functional foods.

Molecular Mechanisms for Anti-aging of Low-Vacuum Cold Plasma Pretreatment in Caenorhabditis elegans

Cold plasma pretreatment has the potential of anti-aging. However, its molecular mechanism is still not clear. Here, cold plasma pretreatment was firstly used to investigate the anti-aging effects of Caenorhabditis elegans using transcriptomic technique. It showed that the optimal parameters of discharge power, processing time, and working pressure for cold plasma pretreatment were separately 100 W, 15 s, and 135 Pa. The released 0.32 mJ/cm² of the moderate apparent energy density was possibly beneficial to the strong positive interaction between plasma and C. elegans. The longest lifespan (13.67 ± 0.50 for 30 days) was obviously longer than the control (10.37 ± 0.46 for 23 days). Furthermore, compared with the control, frequencies of head thrashes with an increase of 26.01% and 37.31% and those of body bends with an increase of 33.37% and 34.51% on the fourth and eighth day, respectively, indicated movement behavior was improved. In addition, the variation of the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) hinted that the cold plasma pretreatment contributed to the enhanced anti-aging effects in nematodes. Transcriptomics analysis revealed that cold plasma pretreatment resulted in specific gene expression. Anatomical structure morphogenesis, response to stress, regulation of biological quality, phosphate-containing compound metabolic process, and phosphorus metabolic process were the most enriched biological process for GO analysis. Cellular response to heat stress and HSF1-dependent transactivation were the two most enriched KEGG pathways. This work would provide the methodological basis using cold plasma pretreatment and the potential gene modification targets for anti-aging study.