Vitamin C as an antioxidant: evaluation of its role in disease prevention

The roles of vitamin C in infectious diseases: A comprehensive review

Vitamin C is a versatile nutrient with essential antioxidant properties and roles in amino acid metabolism, collagen promotion, and hormone synthesis. It has long been regarded as benefitting infectious disease management, although its specific roles remain uncertain. The dominant view is that this efficacy not only stems from its redox regulation in the body but also from its profound impact on the immune system. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Vitamin C's effects on redox regulation and shows how the vitamin influences various immune cells and cell-intrinsic innate immunity signaling pathways, thereby updating and expanding our previous perspectives. Clinically, though some studies and case series have suggested potential benefits of Vitamin C in preventing and (or) treating respiratory tract infections and sepsis and septic shock, the evidence remains controversial. The current data is insufficient to support the routine clinical use of Vitamin C in managing these diseases and requires further rigorous evaluation to establish definitive efficacy and safety profiles. This review thoroughly examines current clinical research progress on Vitamin C, summarizes the primary controversies and their underlying causes, and proposes directions for future clinical research. Furthermore, preclinical evidence shows potential roles for Vitamin C in the supplementary treatment of the "Big Three" infectious diseases: acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), tuberculosis, and malaria; however, systematic clinical studies in these areas are lacking. We examine related in vitro and animal studies, as well as clinical trials, and discuss potential roles for Vitamin C as a treatment and (or) adjuvant therapy.

Revolutionizing drug delivery strategies with probucol to combat oxidative stress in retinal degeneration: A comprehensive review

Localized oxidative stress plays a key role in the development of retinal degenerative diseases, with diabetic retinopathy (DR) being one of them, contributing significantly to this vision-threatening complication of diabetes. Increased oxidative burden leads to dysfunction across various retinal cell types, including vascular endothelial cells, neurons, glial cells and pericytes. Importantly, even after achieving normalized glycemia, the detrimental effects of oxidative stress persist. Nonetheless, growing data highlights the therapeutic potential of antioxidants in safeguarding vision. However, extensive clinical trials using traditional antioxidants have produced mixed results. Therefore, probucol, known for its ability to limit vascular oxidative stress, decrease superoxide generation, and improve endogenous antioxidant activity, is a promising candidate explored in this review. In addition to describing probucol, this review will explore novel therapeutic formulation strategies by incorporating bile acid into probucol-loaded nanoparticles to enhance drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye for more effective management of DR. The integration of bio-nanotechnology with probucol and bile acids represents a promising avenue for developing effective therapies for DR, addressing the limitations of traditional antioxidant treatments.

A review of mandacaru fruit phytochemicals, its pharmacotherapeutic benefits and uses in food technology

The Cereus genus includes medicinal plants native to the Neotropical region. Although their colorful fruits are consumed in arid and semi-arid areas, these are underused industrially due to limited knowledge. This review presents recent studies on the chemical, physicochemical, and bioactive aspects of Cereus fruits, along with pharmacotherapeutic benefits and potential applications of peel, pulp, and seed compounds. Cereus fruits exhibit high nutritional value and richness in bioactive compounds. Their peel has the highest antioxidant concentration, mainly phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Their pulp offers significant dietary fiber and energy. Seed flour and oil are rich in minerals (K, P and Mg), and also contain oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids. Most studies focus on Cereus jamacaru, indicating the need to explore other Cereus species for their varied compositions, in addition to innovative physicochemical analyses to uncover relevant compounds.

CoOx/CeO2@C nanopetals derived Cobalt-Cerium Prussian blue with enhanced Dual-Enzyme mimetic activity for detection of ascorbic acid in rat brain during calm/ischemic processes

In this study, we demonstrate that a highly efficient colorimetric sensor prepared from carbon-shielded Co-Ce Prussian blue analog (PBA) nanopetals (CoOx/CeO2@C) by green chemical deposition method and thermal annealing processes for detection of ascorbic acid (AA) in cerebral microdialysis fluids. The synthesized CoOx/CeO2@C showed high dual-mimetic activity, i.e., peroxidase- and catalase-like activity, and great catalytic stability. The combination of carbon film and Co-Ce PBA nanopetals (1) greatly enhances the interfacial electron transfer rate of the nanopetals due to excellent electrical conductivity of carbon, and (2) protects nanopetals from acidic chemical environments during the catalytic process, which greatly reduces loss of the catalytic activity of the cobalt-cerium (hydroxide) oxides. Based on the peroxidase-like property of CoOx/CeO2@C nanopetals, this sensor has a good linear range from 0.1 to 150 μM with a low detection limit of 0.04 μM, i.e., improved sensitivity for AA colorimetric measurement. The developed colorimetric strategy with a green synthetic pathway, catalytic stability and wide linear range confirms the monitoring of AA in brain systems during calm/ischemic processes.

Chlorophyllin and sunlight against Penicillium digitatum: exploring Photodynamic Inactivation as a green postharvest technology in citriculture

Green mold, induced by the fungal phytopathogen Penicillium digitatum, is one of the major causes of postharvest losses in citriculture. To minimize mold infections oranges are treated harshly with fungicides, edible coatings, or physical treatment, leading to evolving resistance, low consumer acceptance, or reduced crop quality, respectively. Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) might represent an ecofriendly alternative for treatment of P. digitatum spoilage, especially if based on natural photosensitizers. Here, we introduce PDI using three formulations consisting of different concentrations of the natural photosensitizer sodium magnesium chlorophyllin (Chl), Na2EDTA as cell-wall permeabilizing agent and a surfactant for postharvest treatment of P. digitatum. As experimental model systems (i) mycelial spheres in liquid suspension, (ii) fungal spores or (iii) a newly developed experimental setup using orange peel plugs are employed. Illumination was done by an LED device with a main wavelength of 395 nm (106 J cm-2). The lowest concentrated photosensitizer formulation (219 µM Chl) effectively photokilled samples of model systems (i) and (ii) with 100% and 62.5% dead samples, respectively. Orange peel plugs of model system (iii) were best disinfected using the mid-concentrated formulation (475 µM Chl, 70% dead samples). Additionally, model systems (ii) and (iii) were treated with the mid-concentrated formulation and illuminated by sunlight. Eradication of P. digitatum liquid spore culture (ii) was enhanced when illuminating with sunlight (300 J cm-2). Further, a complete disinfection of orange peel plugs (iii, 100% dead samples) was achieved with sunlight (300 J cm-2). To evaluate the antioxidant scavenging activity post-PDI treatment with LED light (395 nm, 106 J cm-2) a DPPH assay was performed on model system (iii). The treatment with the mid- and low-concentrated Chl formulations and LED light showed little to no change in DPPH scavenging activity when compared to the not-illuminated controls. Concisely, with this study we demonstrate that PDI using Chl-based photosensitizer formulations has an in vitro antifungal effect against P. digitatum, without altering the antioxidant scavenging activity of the fruit. Different model systems, to mimic the different stages of green mold infection, were effectively treated with Chl and sunlight.

Vitamin C Synergistically Enhances Protective Effects of Vitamin E Against Preantral Follicle Degeneration of Ovine Vitrified/Warmed Ovarian Tissue

This study aimed to evaluate whether the addition of vitamins E and C as two conventional antioxidants improves the cryotolerance of preantral follicles enclosed in ovine ovarian tissue slices. For this purpose, ovarian slices were obtained from abattoired juvenile lambs and randomly distributed to the following groups: fresh, toxicity, vitrified (control), and three treatment groups in two experiments. Vitamin E, vitamin C, or vitamin E + C was added to the vitrification media alone in the first experiment and added to all vitrification, warming, and culture media in the second experiment. Finally, the treated tissues were cultured in vitro for 12 hours. The histological analysis showed that single or combined use of vitamins E and C increases intact preantral follicles in comparison to the control in two experiments (p < 0.05), and simultaneous use of vitamins E and C had a synergistic effect on increasing the percentage of normal preantral follicles in experiment 2 (p < 0.05). Due to the better results in Experiment 2, stromal cell density, antioxidant activity, and molecular evaluation were followed only in this experiment. The vitamin E + C group had higher stromal cell density compared with control group (p < 0.05). Vitamin E strengthened antioxidant capacity compared with the control and vitamin C groups (p < 0.05). This effect was exacerbated when used in combination with vitamin C (p < 0.05). The expression of all evaluated genes (BMP4, BMP15, GDF9, and KITLG) was significantly increased in ovarian tissue treated with vitamin E + C compared with the control group (p < 0.05). This increase was also observed in BMP4, GDF9, and KITLG genes compared with the vitamin C group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study revealed the positive effects of vitamins E and C on preantral follicle viability and to some extent a synergistic action of vitamin C on the protective effects of vitamin E against preantral follicle degeneration and increasing antioxidant capacity and development of preantral follicles after ovine ovarian tissue vitrification.

Effects of acute low intensity aerobics and blueberry juice on arterial stiffness in young adults

Arterial stiffness, a cardiovascular disease (CVD) predictor starting from youth, is under-researched in young adults. Low-intensity aerobic exercise (LAE) is generally more accessible than higher-intensity exercise and may be more sustainable for young individuals. Blueberries, renowned for vascular health benefits, may reduce arterial stiffness. This study examines the effects of LAE and blueberry juice on arterial stiffness in 48 young adults. Participants were randomized into LAE, low-, mid-, or high-volume blueberry juice (LB, MB, HB), LAE + LB, LAE + MB, LAE + HB, and control groups. Arterial stiffness was measured at baseline and at 15-, 30-, 45-, and 60 min post-intervention. Blood samples were collected pre-intervention and 30-min post-intervention for metabolomic analysis. Repeated ANOVA revealed LAE + MB significantly reduced arterial stiffness. Metabolomic analysis revealed changes in linoleic acid, sphingolipid, phenylalanine, nicotinate and nicotinamide, glycerophospholipid, and lysine degradation metabolic pathways. These findings suggest a feasible exercise-diet strategy for CVD prevention in young adults and provide metabolic insights into the mechanisms.

Association of Dietary Vitamin C Intake with the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome Among Adults: NHANES 2007-2018

Objectives: There has been discussion over the association between vitamin C intake and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study examined the relationship between dietary vitamin C intake and the risk of MetS in a sizable adult American population. Methods: We examined the relationship between dietary vitamin C intake and the risk of MetS in 12,943 persons from the 2007 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). This association was then evaluated using logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models. Sex and age-based subgroup analyses were carried out. Results: According to the results of the multiple regression model, the risk of MetS was inversely correlated with dietary vitamin C intake, vitamin C intake derived from fruits and vegetables. The adjusted results (odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals) for the highest versus lowest tertile were 0.80 (0.68-0.93), 0.86 (0.75-0.98), and 0.80 (0.69-0.93). Subgroup analyses further showed that the negative correlation of dietary vitamin C intake with the risk of MetS was particularly pronounced among females, those in the 20-39 age group, and those in the ≥60 age group. The dose-response relationship's findings indicated that vitamin C from diet and fruits had a nonlinear correlation with the risk of MetS, whereas vitamin C from vegetables had a linear correlation. Conclusions: The risk of MetS in adult Americans was found to be negatively correlated with dietary vitamin C intake, particularly from fruits and vegetables.

Total IgE levels are associated with mortality risk partially mediated by vitamin status: A nationally representative population-based study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Elevated total IgE levels are traditionally associated with allergic conditions; however, their potential role as biomarker for mortality risk beyond allergic diseases has not been extensively explored. Recent studies have suggested that IgE is associated with cardiovascular (CV) disease. We aimed to investigate the association between total IgE levels and the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality, as well as to explore the potential mediating role of vitamin status in these associations.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The association between IgE and mortality risk was examined in the National Health and Examination Survey 2005-2006. Weighted multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was employed. We further performed restricted cubic spline analysis to assess dose-response relationships and conducted mediation analysis to explore the influence of vitamins on IgE-related mortality risk. Individuals in the highest total IgE quantile (>107.0 kU/L) exhibited a 32 % increased risk of all-cause mortality (95 % CI: 1.07-1.64) and a 98 % elevated risk of CV mortality (95 % CI: 1.28-3.07) compared to the lowest quantile (<14.5 kU/L). Heterogeneity exists in the dose-response relationship and threshold effects among individuals with and without allergic diseases. Vitamin deficiency is associated with elevated total IgE levels, and vitamins mediated the relationship of the IgE-related all-cause mortality with the proportion of mediation ranging from 4.68 to 12.71 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings introduce a novel dimension to the understanding of IgE as a biomarker for mortality beyond its traditional role in allergic diseases, challenging the current paradigm that elevated IgE levels without overt allergic symptoms are benign.

Reduction of colitis in mice by chemically programmed supramolecular nanoassemblies of vitamin-lipid conjugates

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a relapsing disorder characterized by uncontrolled chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, posing a significant therapeutic challenge owing to the limited efficacy and undesirable side effects of current therapeutic options. A key pathological hallmark of IBD is the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hence, therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing ROS levels are promising for relieving these inflammatory conditions. Vitamin C-a natural nutrient for the human body-is well known for its potent antioxidant effects. However, the clinical development of vitamin C as a therapeutic drug has been hindered by its poor stability, rapid metabolism, and inadequate tissue accumulation. Herein, we report that the bioavailability of vitamin C can be enhanced by chemically reprogramming it with a small panel of long-chain fatty acids that aid in the aqueous self-assembly of the resulting drug conjugates to create self-deliverable nanoassemblies, enhancing their inflammation disease-oriented delivery and cellular uptake. In mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis, the optimal vitamin C-lipid nanoassemblies preferentially accumulated in inflamed colonic tissues following systemic administration and substantially ameliorated disease severity. We extended this strategy to incorporate the clinically approved glucocorticoid budesonide into the vitamin C nanosystem, facilitating a synergistic combination. In the chronic colitis model, the combination treatment reduced inflammation without compromising global immunity. Mechanistically, the treatment modulated the intestinal inflammatory microenvironment and altered the immune cell landscape, partly through regulation of the gut microbiome. Given its anticipated negligible side effects, this novel nanoassembly platform leveraging small-molecule lipidation may become a promising therapeutic for treating various inflammatory diseases.

The Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Clinical Outcomes of Vitamin C Deficiency in Adult Hospitalised Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study

Background/Objectives: Assessment of vitamin C status rarely occurs in hospital patients within high-income countries on the assumption that vitamin C deficiency (VCD) is rare, and evidence on prevalence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of VCD is limited. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of VCD, characteristics of patients with VCD, and identify risk factors and clinical outcomes associated with VCD status in adult hospitalised patients. Methods: This retrospective observational study included adult inpatients from five metropolitan hospitals within a single public health service in Australia which provides tertiary, acute, and sub-acute care, over a 3.5-year period. Non-fasting vitamin C levels were examined for the prevalence of VCD, defined as <11.4 µmol/L. Multivariate regression models were used to identify risk factors and clinical outcomes associated with VCD. Results: The prevalence of VCD was 22.9% (n = 1791), comprising 23.2% (n = 1717) and 16.2% (n = 74) within acute and sub-acute settings, respectively. VCD prevalence was high in acute setting subgroups including patients with malnutrition (30%, n = 611) and patients admitted to ICU during hospitalisation (37.3%, n = 327). Malnutrition (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.19-1.91, p < 0.001) and male gender (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.17-1.86, p = 0.001) were associated with VCD. VCD was not associated with clinical outcomes including in-hospital death, hospital or intensive care unit LOS, or hospital-acquired complications. Conclusions: VCD exists within adult hospital patients in high-income countries, and early, targeted detection of VCD in this setting is warranted. Further research is needed to explore the impact of VCD on hospital clinical outcomes.

Factors influencing mental health outcomes among university students: a cross-sectional study in Bangladesh

INTRODUCTION

Mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression, are on the rise among university students globally, including in Bangladesh. However, comprehensive data on the factors influencing mental health outcomes in this group remain limited, hindering the development of effective programmes and interventions.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the mental health status of university students in Bangladesh and examine the key factors influencing mental health outcomes.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Bangladesh from December 2022 to March 2023.

SETTING

Universities in Bangladesh.

PARTICIPANTS

University students aged 18 and older.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Data were collected through a structured survey that assessed depression and anxiety using the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale, as well as dietary diversity through the Individual Dietary Diversity Score.

RESULTS

The results showed that while female students exhibited greater dietary diversity, they also had higher obesity rates, whereas male students reported more physical activity. Mental health assessments revealed that 36.1% of participants experienced mild anxiety, 11.5% severe anxiety, 39.8% mild depression and 8.3% severe depression. Binary logistic regression analysis identified significant predictors of anxiety and depression, including gender, personal income, body mass index and screen time. Females were less likely to experience anxiety (crude odds ratios (COR): 0.531, p =0.034) and depression (COR: 0.591, p =0.023) compared with males. Furthermore, low intake of wheat, rice (COR: 2.123, p=0.050) and pulses (COR: 1.519, p=0.050), as well as high consumption of fats, oils (COR: 2.231, p=0.024) and sugary foods (COR: 2.277, p=0.001), were associated with anxiety, while inadequate intake of vitamin A- and C-rich fruits (COR: 1.435, p =0.018) was linked to depression. Overweight students were found to be more susceptible to depression.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study emphasise the necessity for targeted interventions that promote healthier lifestyles to enhance mental health outcomes among university students in Bangladesh.

Exosomes-encapsulated biomimetic polydopamine carbon dots with dual-targeting effect alleviate motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease via anti-neuroinflammation

Currently, the clinical drugs for Parkinson's disease (PD) only focus on motor symptoms, while non-motor symptoms like depression are usually neglected. Even though, the efficacy of existing neurotherapeutic drugs is extremely poor which is due to the blood brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, a biomimetic polydopamine carbon dots (PDA C-dots) at 2-4 nm was synthesized, while exosomes from macrophages were applied to encapsulate PDA C-dots for improving their BBB-crossing ability and inflammation-targeting effect. Importantly, the prepared PDA C-dots@Exosomes (PEs) significantly alleviated both motor and non-motor symptoms of PD mice. Further mechanism research revealed that PEs eliminated oxidant stress and alleviated neuroinflammation to restore the injured neurons. The content of α-syn was markedly reduced, and the neural viability was dramatically improved on the areas of substantia nigra, striata, and prefrontal cortex. In summary, this work reported a mild synthetic approach to produce a kind of PDA C-dots, which had a fantastic neuroprotective effect. After being encapsulated with exosomes of macrophages, the obtained PEs could be utilized as a neuroprotective drug with great penetration ability of BBB and targeting ability into inflammatory zone. The great therapeutic effect on both motor and non-motor symptoms of PD indicates that PEs could become a promising drug for PD treatment.

The pharmacology of vitamin C

Ascorbic acid, the reduced form of vitamin C, is a ubiquitous small carbohydrate. Despite decades of focused research, new metabolic functions of this universal electron donor are still being discovered and add to the complexity of our view of vitamin C in human health. Although praised as an unsurpassed water-soluble antioxidant in plasma and cells, the most interesting functions of vitamin C seem to be its roles as specific electron donor in numerous biological reactions ranging from the well-known hydroxylation of proline to cofactor for the epigenetic master regulators ten-eleven translocation enzymes and Jumonji domain-containing histone-lysine demethylases. Some of these functions may have important implications for disease prevention and treatment and have spiked renewed interest in, eg, vitamin C's potential in cancer therapy. Moreover, some fundamental pharmacokinetic properties of vitamin C remain to be established including if other mechanisms than passive diffusion governs the efflux of ascorbate anions from the cell. Taken together, there still seems to be much to learn about the pharmacology of vitamin C and its role in health and disease. This review explores new avenues of vitamin C and integrates our present knowledge of its pharmacology. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Vitamin C is involved in multiple biological reactions of which most are essential to human health. Hundreds of millions of people are considered deficient in vitamin C according to accepted guidelines, but little is known about the long-term consequences. Although the complexity of vitamin C's physiology and pharmacology has been widely disregarded in clinical studies for decades, it seems clear that a deeper understanding of particularly its pharmacology holds the key to unravel and possibly exploit the potential of vitamin C in disease prevention and therapy.

Incorporation of ascorbic acid-2-glucoside into ulvan microneedles to enhance its permeation for anti-aging and whitening treatment

For anti-aging and whitening treatment, ascorbic acid-2-glucoside (AA2G) was incorporated into a 4.0 % (w/v) ulvan solution at three concentrations (0.5 %, 1.0 %, and 2.0 % w/v) to fabricate ulvan-based microneedles (UMNs) using a spin-casting method, aimed at enhancing AA2G permeation. The in vitro skin insertion study demonstrated that incorporating AA2G into the UMNs improved their insertion capability, increasing from 86.3 % for neat UMNs to 98 % for AA2G-UMNs. Furthermore, in vitro drug permeation profiles revealed that dissolving UMNs significantly enhanced the cumulative permeation of AA2G, achieving 80-90 % within 3 h. In addition to showing good biocompatibility with HaCaT and NIH3T3 cells, AA2G-UMNs exhibited antioxidant activity and protected HaCaT cells from H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Their anti-aging activity was demonstrated by their ability to inhibit elastase and collagenase activity. Moreover, whitening efficacy was confirmed through the inhibition of melanin production and tyrosinase activity. Among the formulations, 2.0 % AA2G-UMNs achieved the greatest reduction in melanin content in B16F10 cells, with a 54.2 % reduction intracellularly and a 61.3 % reduction extracellularly. Tyrosinase activity inhibition by AA2G-UMNs ranged from 42.6 % to 53.4 %. These results suggest that AA2G-UMNs hold significant promise for applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries.

Electrochemical determination of ascorbic acid using sensitive and disposable methylene blue modified pencil graphite electrode

In the present work, a convenient, efficient and disposable electrochemical sensor has been developed by electropolymerizing methylene blue (PMB) on the surface of a pencil graphite electrode (PGE), which facilitates the electrochemical analysis of an antioxidant l-Ascorbic Acid (AA). The structural characteristics of both the methylene blue modified pencil graphite electrode (PMB/PGE) and the bare pencil graphite electrode (BPGE) have been examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in conjunction with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Additionally, the charge transfer behavior has been evaluated using the electron impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The voltammetric response of AA has been examined using different methods, such as differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV). This exploration has been carried out in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) of physiological pH 7.0. The electrochemical sensor PMB/PGE proposed in this study exhibited an improved peak current and a slight negative shift in peak potential for AA compared to bare electrode. The enhancement in peak current at the modified electrode has been attributed to the electrocatalytic characteristics of the modifiers. The limit of detection (LOD) for AA has been determined using the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), with concentrations ranging from 1.0 μM to 12.0 μM. The calculated LOD value has been found to be 0.15 μM. The selectivity and practicality of the modified electrode has been assessed through the real sample analysis and demonstrating its capability to detect AA in the presence of paracetamol (PA) resulting in satisfactory recovery results. Hence the proposed sensor could be successfully validated for the determination of AA in pharmaceutical sample.

Integrated Analysis of Transcriptomics and Proteomics Provides Insights into the Accumulation Mechanism of Ascorbic Acid in Rosa roxburghii Tratt

Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) is widely cultivated in Guizhou Province, China. In recent years, RRT has emerged as one of the most promising new fruit crops in China, primarily because of its remarkably high levels of ascorbic acid (AsA). In this research, we assessed the AsA levels in RRT across various growth phases. The findings demonstrate that the AsA concentration in RRT fruits progressively increased in a linear fashion throughout development, peaking at 2274.60 mg/(100 g FW) when the fruit reached maturity (84 DAA). Furthermore, we conducted an integrated analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic data for the first time to investigate the mechanisms responsible for AsA accumulation in RRT. Our results show that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were primarily associated with the ascorbate and aldarate metabolism pathway, suggesting that this pathway plays a crucial role in regulating AsA accumulation in RRT. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism underlying AsA accumulation in RRT and provides a robust scientific foundation for subsequent research on AsA accumulation in RRT.

The role of biophysical properties in defining the functional applications of alkyl esters of L-ascorbic acid

Lipophilic derivatives of vitamin C, known as ascorbyl-6-O-alkanoates (ASCn), have been mainly developed for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and the food industry as antioxidant additives. These derivatives are of biotechnological interest due to their antioxidant properties, amphiphilic behavior, capacity to self-organize into nano- and micro-structures, anionic nature, and low cost of synthesis. In this review, we will focus on the commercial amphiphile, 6-O-palmitoyl L-ascorbic acid (ASC16), and the shorter acyl chains derivatives, such as 6-O-myristoyl (ASC14) and 6-O-lauroyl L-ascorbic acid (ASC12). The biophysical characteristics of the ASCn family members make them promising candidates for applications such as antioxidant additives, drug carriers in topical pharmaceutical formulations, skin permeation enhancers, and vaccine adjuvants. Furthermore, they exhibit antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, drawing attention from new biotechnology frontiers. By exploring the biophysical properties of ASCn derivatives, this review highlights their potential applications and the fundamental mechanisms driving their functionality.

The possible effects of chili peppers on ADHD in relation to the gut microbiota

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, which is characterized by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although the etiology and pathogenesis of ADHD are not fully understood, existing studies have shown that it may be related to genetic factors, environmental factors, abnormal brain development, and psychosocial factors. In recent years, with the concept of microbioa-gut-brain axis (MGBA), more and more studies have begun to pay attention to the effect of gut microbiota on ADHD. Dietary structure can significantly change the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota. Therefore, dietary supplements or food additives to regulate gut microbiota have become one of the potential ways to treat ADHD. Peppers, as an important dietary component, have potential value in regulating gut microbiota. Among them, capsaicin (8-methyl N-vanillyl-6-noneamide, CAP), as a key active component of peppers, has been shown to have potential therapeutic effects on central nervous system (CNS) diseases such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and depression. In addition, much attention has been paid to the beneficial effects of CAP on gut microbiota. Chili peppers contain not only CAP, but also rich in vitamin C and fatty acids, all of which may ameliorate ADHD by modulating the gut microbiota. This finding not only provides a potential treatment for ADHD, but also provides a new perspective to expand the research and clinical treatment of ADHD pathogenesis. Although current research on the potential therapeutic effects of chili peppers on ADHD is still at an early stage and requires further verification through larger-scale and more rigorous controlled studies, its potential clinical value cannot be ignored.

Hypovitaminosis and its association with recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a comprehensive review of clinical correlations and diagnostic considerations

Background

Hypovitaminosis, or vitamin deficiency, has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributing factor in the development of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), a condition characterized by the periodic formation of painful ulcers in the oral mucosa.

Materials and methods

This mini review includes a literature search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases using keywords "hypovitaminosis AND aphthous ulcers."

Results

There is a growing body of evidence supporting the link between various vitamin deficiencies-particularly vitamins B12, C, and folate-and the prevalence of RAS, with implications for both diagnosis and management.

Conclusion

This review aims to outline the clinical and biochemical findings associated with hypovitaminosis in individuals presenting with RAS, emphasizing the diagnostic importance of recognizing vitamin deficiencies in these patients and exploring possible therapeutic approaches.

Quality diversity of three calcium-rich Primulina vegetables: A comprehensive analysis of calcium content, metabolite profiles, taste characteristics, and medicinal potential

Primulina plants native to karst regions are exceptionally rich in calcium and have been developed into high‑calcium leafy vegetables. However, limited knowledge of their metabolites, taste characteristics, and potential medicinal value restricts further genetic improvements. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis on three breeding species of Primulina vegetables. Common garden experiment demonstrated significant calcium enrichment capability, with calcium content ranging from 204.45 to 391.52 mg/100 g. Through widely-targeted metabolomics, 1121 metabolites were identified within these Primulina vegetables. Furthermore, comparative analysis identified 976 differentially accumulated metabolites across nine comparison groups, driven mainly by flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lipids. Integration of electronic tongue analysis and metabolomics revealed taste profiles and identified 17 key candidate compounds related to taste. Based on network pharmacology analysis, 32 active ingredients were found in Primulina vegetables, which highlighted potential medicinal value. These findings provide a data-driven foundation for breeding programs aimed at enhancing nutritional and flavor traits.

A novel combinatorial approach integrating experimental and computational analysis of antioxidant activity: Evaluating catechin and L-ascorbic acid in serum

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with oxidative stress playing a pivotal role in its progression. Free radicals produced via oxidative stress contribute to lipid peroxidation, leading to subsequent inflammatory responses, which then result in atherosclerosis. Antioxidants inhibit these harmful effects through their reducing ability, thereby preventing oxidative damage. In this study, we introduce computational models simulating hydrophilic and hydrophobic serum environments. We optimized the Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma (FRAP) assay at a microscale level to evaluate the antioxidant activity of L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and catechin, a phytochemical found in green tea, in normal and hypertriglyceridemic serum. Hypertriglyceridemic serum, characterized by increased hydrophobic lipid content, provides a model to examine the impact of serum triglycerides on antioxidant activity. Additionally, we employed computational models using the Gaussian software to simulate the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism, calculating free energy changes and bond dissociation energy (BDE) to assess the antioxidant potency of the studied compounds in both hydrophilic and hydrophobic environments. The computational results align with the experimental finding offering a unique combinatorial approach to assess antioxidant activity in both normal and hypertriglyceridemic serum, with potential implications for clinical interventions.

NXP031 restores memory function by dual effects degrading Aβ accumulation and facilitating antioxidant pathway in Alzheimer's disease models

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a representative neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by the overaccumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) proteins. Since AD is accompanied by excessive oxidative stress, which aggravates neurological pathologies, the use of antioxidants has been considered to prevent disease development. NXP031, a combination of vitamin C (VitC) and an optimized aptamer that binds to VitC and stabilizes the reactivity of VitC, was designed. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of NXP031 on AD pathology, including Aβ accumulation, Aβ-induced oxidative stress, neuronal damage, and neuroinflammation. When NXP031 was administered to 5xFAD transgenic mice, NXP031 exerted a strong inhibitory action on Aβ accumulation, superior to that of VitC, by inducing an increase in Aβ-degrading endopeptidase expression. NXP031 diminished lipid peroxidation levels, activated Nrf2-mediated antioxidant pathways, and suppressed overactivated neuroinflammation. An in vitro study using Neuro2a cells revealed that NXP031 protects the cells against oxidative stress by regulating the MAPK signaling pathway-mediated apoptosis. Additionally, the neuroprotective effects of NXP031 were confirmed in a dose-dependent manner when administered to intrahippocampal Aβ-injected mice, as NXP031 attenuated memory decline, neuronal apoptosis, synaptic degeneration, and excessive glial activation, and reduced NOX-2 expression in the hippocampus. Taken together, NXP031 reduced the Aβ burden by regulating Aβ-degeneration and attenuated memory impairment, neuronal death, synaptic degeneration, and neuroinflammation induced by Aβ toxicity. These results suggest the potential of NXP031 as a therapeutic agent for AD.

The Impact of Diet and Nutrition on the Oral Microbiome

At present, it is well known that oral health is essential for the well-being of the body as a whole, thanks to the increasing awareness of how various oral diseases, including periodontal disease, oral carcinomas, and other conditions, have a close connection with various systemic disorders. In recent decades, studies on the oral microbiome have increasingly emphasized how the balance between the host and the microbial species that coexist there is essential for oral health at all stages of life. However, there are many factors capable of interfering with that balance, and diet is precisely one of them. The real influence of diet on the oral microbiota, and consequently on oral health, has been much debated. In this context, the observation of two key periods in human history, the Neolithic and the Industrial Revolution, has proved to be diriment. The foods and processing techniques that emerged in these two historical periods, in association with changes in customs and habits, significantly altered the central constituents of the human diet, including macronutrient proportions, glycemic load, fatty acid composition, sodium and potassium levels, micronutrient levels, dietary pH, and fiber content taken in by human beings. The introduction of these foods into the daily human routine has been linked to a decline in oral health and an increase of several other diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatic diseases, many cancers, and obesity. The aim of this chapter is to update the current knowledge and further discuss the role of diet and nutrition on oral health.

Enhanced cell survival in prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreserved with membrane lipids and antioxidants rich cryopreservation medium

The present study explores the advantages of enriching the freezing medium with membrane lipids and antioxidants in improving the outcome of prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation. For the study, testicular tissue from Swiss albino mice of prepubertal age group (2 weeks) was cryopreserved by slow freezing method either in control freezing medium (CFM; containing DMSO and FBS in DMEM/F12) or test freezing medium (TFM; containing soy lecithin, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, cholesterol, vitamin C, sodium selenite, DMSO and FBS in DMEM/F12 medium) and stored in liquid nitrogen for at least one week. The tissues were thawed and enzymatically digested to assess viability, DNA damage, and oxidative stress in the testicular cells. The results indicate that TFM significantly mitigated freeze-thaw-induced cell death, DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation compared to tissue cryopreserved in CFM. Further, a decrease in Cyt C, Caspase-3, and an increase in Gpx4 mRNA transcripts were observed in tissues frozen with TFM. Spermatogonial germ cells (SGCs) collected from tissues frozen with TFM exhibited higher cell survival and superior DNA integrity compared to those frozen in CFM. Proteomic analysis revealed that SGCs experienced a lower degree of freeze-thaw-induced damage when cryopreserved in TFM, as evident from an increase in the level of proteins involved in mitigating the heat stress response, transcriptional and translational machinery. These results emphasize the beneficial role of membrane lipids and antioxidants in enhancing the cryosurvival of prepubertal testicular tissue offering a significant stride towards improving the clinical outcome of prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation.

Advancements in Antioxidant-Based Therapeutics for Spinal Cord Injury: A Critical Review of Strategies and Combination Approaches

Spinal cord injury (SCI) initiates a cascade of secondary damage driven by oxidative stress, characterized by the excessive production of reactive oxygen species and other reactive molecules, which exacerbate cellular and tissue damage through the activation of deleterious signaling pathways. This review provides a comprehensive and critical evaluation of recent advancements in antioxidant-based therapeutic strategies for SCI, including natural compounds, RNA-based therapies, stem cell interventions, and biomaterial applications. It emphasizes the limitations of single-regimen approaches, particularly their limited efficacy and suboptimal delivery to injured spinal cord tissue, while highlighting the synergistic potential of combination therapies that integrate multiple modalities to address the multifaceted pathophysiology of SCI. By analyzing emerging trends and current limitations, this review identifies key challenges and proposes future directions, including the refinement of antioxidant delivery systems, the development of multi-targeted approaches, and strategies to overcome the structural complexities of the spinal cord. This work underscores the pressing need for innovative and integrative therapeutic approaches to advance the clinical translation of antioxidant-based interventions and improve outcomes for SCI patients.

Valorizing Agro‐Food Waste for Nutraceutical Development: Sustainable Approaches for Managing Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and Related Co‐Morbidities

This comprehensive investigation delves into the interconnectedness of different features of cardiometabolic syndrome, such as metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and gut dysbiosis, highlighting the crucial role of nutraceuticals in their management and prevention. Given the significant overlap in the pathophysiology of these conditions, the treatment with nutraceuticals, especially those derived from agro‐food waste, offers a promising, sustainable, and innovative approach to healthcare. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the One Health concept are key frameworks for selecting the most interesting supply chain for the production of nutraceuticals from agro‐food waste, ensuring environmental sustainability, and innovative agricultural practices. In this review, the therapeutic potential of kiwifruit and apples has been explored, detailing how their bioactive compounds, like polyphenols, fiber, pectin, kaempferol, phloretin, and phlorizin, may contribute to the management of MASLD, ASCVD, and gut dysbiosis. Various extraction methods for active ingredients, including chemical, water, and enzyme extractions, are analyzed for their respective benefits and drawbacks. By integrating scientific research, sustainable agricultural practices, and innovative extraction methods, we can develop effective strategies to combat these pervasive health issues. This holistic approach not only enhances individual health outcomes but also supports broader environmental and societal goals, promoting a healthier future for all.

A Combined Extract from Dioscorea bulbifera and Zingiber officinale Mitigates PM2.5-Induced Respiratory Damage by NF-κB/TGF-β1 Pathway

This research evaluated the protective role of a combined extract of Dioscorea bulbifera and Zingiber officinale (DBZO) against respiratory dysfunction caused by particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure in BALB/c mice. The bioactive compounds identified in the DBZO are catechin, astragalin, 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 6-shogaol. DBZO ameliorated cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in PM2.5-stimulated A549 and RPMI 2650 cells. In addition, it significantly alleviated respiratory dysfunction in BALB/c mice exposed to PM2.5. DBZO improved the antioxidant systems in lung tissues by modulating malondialdehyde (MDA) content, as well as levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Likewise, DBZO restored mitochondrial dysfunction by improving ROS levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP production. Moreover, DBZO modulated the levels of neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes (specifically CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+IL-4+ T cells) in blood and IgE levels in serum. DBZO was shown to regulate the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) pathway. Histopathological observation indicated that DBZO mitigates the increase in alveolar septal thickness. These findings indicate that DBZO is a promising natural agent for improving respiratory health.

Do nutritional interventions before or during pregnancy affect placental phenotype? Findings from a systematic review of human clinical trials

Background

Maternal nutritional interventions aim to address nutrient deficiencies in pregnancy, a leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. How these interventions influence the placenta, which plays a vital role in fetal growth and nutrient supply, is not well understood. This leaves a major gap in understanding how such interventions could influence pregnancy outcomes and fetal health. We hypothesised that nutritional interventions influence placental phenotype, and that these placental changes relate to how successful an intervention is in improving pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

We searched PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform using pre-defined search terms for records published from January 2001 to September 2021 that reported on clinical trials in humans, which administered a maternal nutritional intervention during the periconceptional or pregnancy period and reported on placental phenotype (shape and form, function or placental disorders). These records were then screened by two reviewers for eligibility.

Results

Fifty-three eligible articles reported on (multiple) micronutrient- (n = 33 studies), lipid- (n = 11), protein- (n = 2), and diet-/lifestyle-based (n = 8) interventions. Of the micronutrient-based interventions, 16 (48%) were associated with altered placental function, namely altered nutrient transport/metabolism (n = 9). Nine (82%) of the lipid-based interventions were associated with altered placental phenotype, including elevated placental fatty acid levels (n = 5), altered nutrient transport/metabolism gene expression (n = 4), and decreased inflammatory biomarkers (n = 2). Of the protein-based interventions, two (66%) were associated with altered placental phenotype, including increased placental efficiency (n = 1) and decreased preeclampsia risk (n = 1). Three (38%) of diet and lifestyle-based interventions were associated with placental changes, namely placental gene expression (n = 1) and disease (n = 2). In studies with data on maternal (n = 30) or offspring (n = 20) outcomes, interventions that influenced placental phenotype were more likely to have also been associated with improved maternal outcomes (n/N = 11/15, 73%) and offspring birth outcomes (n/N = 6/11, 54%) compared to interventions that did not associate with placental changes (n/N = 2/15 (13%) and n/N = 1/9 (11%) respectively).

Conclusions

Periconceptional and prenatal nutritional interventions to improve maternal/pregnancy health associate with altered placental development and function. These placental adaptations likely benefit the pregnancy and improve offspring outcomes. Understanding the placenta's role in the success of interventions to combat nutrient deficiencies is critical for improving interventions and reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality globally.

Effect of High-Dose Vitamin C on Tendon Cell Degeneration-An In Vitro Study

Tendinopathy is an aging-related disease, often caused by micro-scarring and degeneration due to overuse or trauma. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) supplementation is reported to be a useful treatment for tendinopathy recovery. We compared the inhibitory effects of various ascorbic acid doses on tendon cell damage. H2O2 was added to human-derived tendon cells in vitro (Group H2O2, control), followed by incubation with 150 µM or 30 mM of ascorbic acid (Group C, Group HC). The oxidative injury degree was evaluated by determining reactive oxygen species levels. The cytoskeletal structure was examined via fluorescence immunostaining of actin filaments. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to analyze the expressions of mitochondria transcription factor A, adenosine triphosphate 5A, type I collagen, and p16. Cell death was reduced, and oxidative stress was inhibited in C and HC groups. The cytoskeleton was maintained in the HC group but not in the C group. qPCR analysis revealed that p16 expression was inhibited in both the C and HC groups compared to the H2O2 group; other markers had increased expression. The progression of cell death and cytoskeletal disruption was inhibited by the administration of high-dose vitamin C. Hence, high-dose vitamin C is a potential treatment for tendon cell degeneration.

Exploring Neuroprotection against Radiation-Induced Brain Injury: A Review of Key Compounds

Brain radiation is a crucial tool in neuro-oncology for enhancing local tumor control, but it can lead to mild-to-profound and progressive impairments in cognitive function. Radiation-induced brain injury is a significant adverse effect of radiotherapy for cranioencephalic tumors, primarily caused by indirect cellular damage through the formation of free radicals. This results in late neurotoxicity manifesting as cognitive impairment due to free radical production. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of different substances, such as drugs used in the clinical setting and antioxidants such as ascorbate, in reducing the neurotoxicity associated with radiation-induced brain injury. Currently, there is mainly preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the benefit of these interventions, representing a cost-effective and straightforward neuroprotective strategy.

The effect of vitamin C on the recovery of activity and survival of autografted ovaries through inhibition of oxidation and inflammation

Ovarian tissue autografting is a valuable clinical option to help restore fertility in women with cancer. However, many follicles are lost due to ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury, which depletes follicles after grafting. We aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin C, an antioxidant with anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties, on improving the structure and function of autografted ovaries in mice. Thirty-six female NMRI mice (4-5 weeks old) were divided into three groups of 12: control (no grafting), autograft + vitamin C (50 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally), and autograft + saline (100 µl/day/animal, intraperitoneally). After the ovarian autografting and before the start of the experiment, each group was further divided into 7-day and 28-day subgroups. Seven days after ovary autografting, serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and inflammatory factors were measured. On day 28, ovarian histology, DNA fragmentation, and estradiol and progesterone levels were assessed. Results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test, with significance set at p<0.05. In the autograft + vitamin C group, there were significant increases in the mean total volume of the ovary, cortex (p<0.05), medulla, number of follicles, and levels of IL-10, progesterone, estradiol, and TAC (p<0.001), compared to the autograft group. Conversely, the rate of apoptosis and serum levels of MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α were notably reduced in the autograft + vitamin C group (p<0.001). These results suggest that vitamin C can significantly enhance the recovery of autografted ovaries through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Investigating the Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Cholesterol-lowering Properties of Yogurt Fortified with Postbiotic of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in the Wistar Rat Model

Postbiotics have gained attention in the food industry due to their functional properties and ease of use compared to their live parent cells. Postbiotics are the metabolic byproducts of probiotic microorganisms, offering advantages such as antimicrobial and anti-diabetic effects. The study aimed to explore the potential antibacterial, antioxidant, and cholesterol-lowering effects of postbiotics from Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LbP) through in vitro and in vivo studies. Freeze-dried postbiotics from L. acidophilus BLAC 258 and L. plantarum were used in yogurt to inhibit foodborne pathogens over a 21-day storage period at 4 °C. The cholesterol-lowering effects of the postbiotic yogurt were assessed in Wistar rats fed with Normal Basal Diet (NBD) and High Cholesterol Diet (HCD). All experiments were performed in triplicate, and the collected data were analyzed with a one-way ANOVA using SPSS v.20 (2021) software. The Tukey Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test was used for means differences at the 95% confidence interval. The results showed that postbiotic-fortified yogurt exhibited significant antioxidant and antibacterial effects. The antioxidant capacity of the yogurt increasingly peaked at 48.81% on day 14. Also, Listeria monocytogenes counts in the postbiotic yogurt decreased by approximately 2 Log10 on day 3. High-cholesterol-fed rats receiving postbiotic yogurt experienced significant reductions in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels. Overall results indicate that postbiotics functional yogurt might be a safe and effective strategy for managing cholesterol levels and inhibiting foodborne pathogens.

Green Synthesis of Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles and Evaluation of Antibacterial Performance

This study uses a novel method in which extracts from different parts of a single plant are used to synthesize well-defined silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to address the lack of capping agents in certain plant extracts. We focused on synthesizing AgNPs with enhanced biomedical activity using aqueous leaves and fruit extracts of Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell, a plant native to northern Australia that is known for its high phenolic content and associated health benefits. The impact of using parameters such as the Ag+ ion-to-extract ratio and pH on AgNP synthesis was examined. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed using UV-visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The AgNPs synthesized at a pH of 8 and 1:25 Ag+/extract ratio exhibited the lowest particle size and polydispersity index. The AgNPs synthesized with leaf extract (AgKL) were monodisperse and exhibited a smaller hydrodynamic diameter (37 nm) compared to the fruit extract nanoparticles (AgKP), which were polydisperse and larger (147 nm). Phytochemicals in T. ferdinandiana aqueous leaf extract act as effective capping and stabilizing agents, enabling the synthesis of small-sized and homogenous AgNPs, which the fruit extract alone could not achieve. The in vitro bioactivity was evaluated using antioxidant and antibacterial assays and compared with the crude extract. Both the AgNPs and T. ferdinandiana extracts demonstrated strong 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity. However, only AgKL showed excellent antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria based on minimum inhibitory and bactericidal results. Mixing 50% leaf extract with fruit extract resulted in well-stabilized NPs (AgKPL) with a hydrodynamic diameter of 33.4 nm and superior antibacterial properties. These results indicate that AgKL and AgKPL have significant potential for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

Efficacy of soil drench and foliar application of iron nanoparticles on the growth and physiology of Solanum lycopersicum L. exposed to cadmium stress

Cadmium (Cd) can harm the yield and quality of vegetables, threatening food safety. Essential microelements such as iron are crucial for plant growth and can help alleviate heavy metal stress. Recently, nanoparticles have been studied as eco-friendly solutions for mitigating heavy metal stress in plants. In the present study, iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) at 0, 100, and 300 mg/L were applied as soil drenches and foliar sprays to tomato plants under cadmium stress. A comparison was made between the application methods of FeNPs by evaluating the growth parameters of tomato plants, including shoot length (SL), root length (RL), number of branches (NB), number of leaves per plant (NL), and leaf area (LA), as well as by assessing biochemical and antioxidant enzyme parameters. In the Cd stress treatment, the protein content decreased by 24.71%, and the phenolic and flavonoid content of the tomato plants also decreased due to cadmium stress, with levels decreasing from 16.07 to 6.9 µg and from 0.36 to 0.16 µg, respectively. Compared with the soil drench, 100 mg/L FeNPs significantly improved the parameters of Cd-stressed plants when used as a foliar spray, leading to increases in shoot length, root length, fruit weight, number of fruits, number of leaves, and number of branches by 42%, 66%, 24%, 66%, 173%, and 45%, respectively. Tomato plants treated with this spray presented increased carotenoid and lycopene contents. FeNP foliar spray also reduced Cd accumulation in plant tissues. This technique shows promise in alleviating Cd stress in vulnerable vegetable plants such as tomatoes.

The sodium/ascorbic acid co-transporter SVCT2 distributes in a striated membrane-enriched domain at the M-band level in slow-twitch skeletal muscle fibers

BACKGROUND

Vitamin C plays key roles in cellular homeostasis, functioning as a potent antioxidant and a positive regulator of cell differentiation. In skeletal muscle, the vitamin C/sodium co-transporter SVCT2 is preferentially expressed in oxidative slow fibers. SVCT2 is up-regulated during the early fusion of primary myoblasts and decreases during initial myotube growth, indicating the relevance of vitamin C uptake via SVCT2 for early skeletal muscle differentiation and fiber-type definition. However, our understanding of SVCT2 expression and function in adult skeletal muscles is still limited.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrate that SVCT2 exhibits an intracellular distribution in chicken slow skeletal muscles, following a highly organized striated pattern. A similar distribution was observed in human muscle samples, chicken cultured myotubes, and isolated mouse myofibers. Immunohistochemical analyses, combined with biochemical cell fractionation experiments, reveal a strong co-localization of SVCT2 with intracellular detergent-soluble membrane fractions at the central sarcomeric M-band, where it co-solubilizes with sarcoplasmic reticulum proteins. Remarkably, electrical stimulation of cultured myofibers induces the redistribution of SVCT2 into a vesicular pattern.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide novel insights into the dynamic roles of SVCT2 in different intracellular compartments in response to functional demands.

Protective Effects of Ascorbic Acid Against Cadmium-Induced Toxicity in the Placenta and Fetus of Rats

This study aimed to determine the protective role of l-ascorbic acid in a pregnant rat model of cadmium-induced toxicity. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that can seriously harm placenta and fetus tissue in pregnant women. Forty-two healthy female Wistar albino rats (250-300 g weight and 14-16 weeks) were randomly distributed into six equal groups (n = 7): control, cadmium 1 mg (CD1), cadmium 5 mg (CD5), ascorbic acid (AA), CD1+AA, CD5+AA. Cadmium was administered to pregnant rats by oral gavage every other day, and/or AA (200 mg) was administered every day. At the end of pregnancy (Day 21), blood, placenta, and fetuses were collected from rats. The results indicated that cadmium-induced oxidative stress by increasing the level of MDA and by decreasing the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT activity in the serum of maternal. However, AA administration significantly decreased MDA levels and increased GSH levels, SOD, and CAT activity (p < 0.05). Cadmium (5 mg/kg) exposure significantly increased creatinine levels compared to AA and CD1+AA groups (p < 0.05). In addition, AA (200 mg/kg) significantly attenuated cadmium-induced histopathological alteration in the placental and fetal tissues. In conclusion, AA may prevent cadmium toxicity in maternal and fetal tissues, as it regulates oxidative imbalance in pregnant rat tissues and alleviates histopathological changes.

Practical supplements for prevention and management of migraine attacks: a narrative review

Background

Migraine is one of the most debilitating neurological disorders that causes frequent attacks of headaches and affects approximately 11% of the global population. Deficient or even insufficient levels of vital nutrients would increase the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. Therefore, we aimed to examine the practical supplements for the prevention and management of migraine attacks.

Method

This narrative review study was conducted by searching PubMed, ISI web of science, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Scopus using the keywords of "dietary supplement" and "migraine" plus their MeSH terms. Original articles published in English language from their inception to July 27th, 2024, studies that investigated adult population (aged >18 years), and those assessing the impact of intended nutrient supplementation on clinical symptoms of migraine were included in the study.

Result

Oxidative stress and low intake of antioxidants would be risk factors for migraine attacks by inducing inflammation. The secretion of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, would lead to neuroinflammation and migraine episodes by increasing the cellular permeability and interactions. Evidence also indicated a direct association between phases of migraine attacks and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), mitochondrial disorders, monoaminergic pathway, disruption in brain energy metabolism, and higher serum levels of glutamate and homocysteine. Therefore, supplementation with nutrients involved in mitochondrial function, brain energy metabolism, and even methyl donors would relieve migraine attacks.

Conclusion

Evidence indicated that supplementation with riboflavin, omega-3 fatty acids, alpha lipoic acid, magnesium, probiotics, coenzyme Q10, ginger, and caffeine would have favorable effects on migraine patients. However, more prospective studies are required to evaluate the effect of other nutrients on migraine patients.

Heavy Metals in Umbilical Cord Blood: Effects on Epigenetics and Child Development

Heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead are harmful pollutants that can change how our genes are regulated without altering the DNA sequence, specifically through a process called DNA methylation (DNAm) at 5-methylcytosine, an epigenetic mark that we will focus on in this review. These changes in DNAm are most sensitive during pregnancy, a critical time for development when these modifications can affect how traits are expressed. Historically, most research on these environmental effects has focused on adults, but now there is more emphasis on studying the impacts during early development and childhood. The placenta acts as a protective barrier between the mother and the baby, and by examining it, scientists can identify changes in key genes that might affect long-term health. This review looks at how exposure to heavy metals during pregnancy can cause changes in the gene regulation by DNAm in newborns, as seen in their umbilical cord blood. These changes reflect the baby's genetic state during pregnancy and can be influenced by the mother's environment and genetics, as well as the baby's own genetics.

Association of dietary and circulating antioxidant vitamins with metabolic syndrome: an observational and Mendelian randomization study

Aims

The objective of this study was to investigate the associations of dietary and circulating antioxidant vitamins with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and to assess causality using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

This study included 10,308 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The associations of vitamins A, C, E and carotenoids with MetS were assessed using multivariable weighted logistic regression analysis. Subsequently, the MR approach was employed to test the causal associations, with inverse variance weighted (IVW) serving as the primary analysis.

Results

Observationally, dietary vitamin A (OR=0.852, 95%CI: 0.727-0.999), C (OR=0.802, 95%CI: 0.675-0.952), carotene (OR=0.832, 95%CI: 0.706-0.982), and β-carotene (OR=0.838, 95%CI: 0.706-0.995) in quartile 4 had lower incidents of MetS, when compared to quartile 1. Circulating vitamin C and carotene were also present inversely associated with MetS, while the vitamin A and E both increased this risk. IVW-MR confirmed the associations of dietary vitamin A (OR=0.920, 95%CI: 0.861-0.984), vitamin C (OR=0.905, 95%CI: 0.836-0.979) and carotene (OR=0.918, 95%CI: 0.865-0.974) with MetS. However, there was only circulating β-carotene (OR=0.909, 95%CI: 0.857-0.965) was found to be causally associated with MetS.

Conclusions

Observational and MR studies have shown that adequate dietary intake of vitamin A, C and carotenoids may help to reduce the risk of MetS.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Biological Mechanisms and Health Benefits

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a bioactive molecule with significant health effects. The biological action of ALA has been ascribed to the characteristic antioxidant properties of the oxidized form (ALA) and its reduced counterpart the dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) system. The ALA/DHLA combination represents an ideal antioxidant since it can quench radicals, is able to chelate metals, is amphiphilic, and has no major adverse effects. This unique system is able to scavenge reactive oxygen species, exerting a major effect on tissue levels of reduced forms of other antioxidants, including glutathione. For this reason, ALA is also known as the "antioxidant of antioxidants". This review analyzes the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects of ALA and discusses its applications as an ameliorative tool for chronic diseases and those associated with oxidative stress. Results from in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that ALA modulates various oxidative stress pathways suggesting its application, alone or in combination with other functional substances, as a useful support in numerous conditions, in which the balance oxidant-antioxidant is disrupted, such as neurodegenerative disorders. Based on several successful clinical studies, it has been also established that oral ALA supplements are clinically useful in relieving the complications of diabetes and other disorders including cardiovascular diseases and nerve discomforts suggesting that ALA can be considered a useful approach to improving our health.

Attenuation of Oxidative Stress in Erythrocytes Stored with Vitamin C and l-Carnitine in Additive Solution-7

Background: Blood transfusion has advanced toward component therapy for specific requirements during trauma and surgery. Oxidative stress is induced in erythrocytes during storage. Hence, antioxidants as additives can be employed to counteract oxidative stress and enhance antioxidant defenses. Therefore, this study investigates the combinatorial effects of vitamin C and l-carnitine on erythrocytes during storage. Methodology: Erythrocyte samples were categorized into control and experimental groups-vitamin C (10 mM) and l-carnitine (10 mM) and stored under blood bank conditions (at 4°C) for 35 days. Hemoglobin (Hb), antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT] and glutathione peroxidase [GPX]), lipid peroxidation products (conjugate dienes and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARSs]), protein oxidation products, metabolic markers (glucose, lactate dehydrogenase), glutathione (GSH), superoxides, and hemolysis were assessed at weekly intervals. Results: SOD activity increased on day 7 in the controls, whereas it increased on days 7 and 14 in the experimental groups. CAT activity increased on day 35 in both the groups. GPX activity increased on day 7 in the controls. Hb levels decreased on days 14 and 35 in the controls and on day 35 in the experimental groups. Hemolysis increased from day 7 onward in both the groups. Protein oxidation products were maintained throughout the storage. GSH levels increased on day 21 in the controls and on days 14 and 21 in the experimental groups. Superoxides and conjugate dienes decreased from day 14 in both the groups. TBARSs decreased on day 7 in the experimental groups. Conclusion: Vitamin C and l-carnitine have synergistically enhanced the efficacy of stored erythrocytes in terms of Hb, antioxidant enzymes, and lipid peroxidation.

Polyphenols as the Main Compounds Influencing the Antioxidant Effect of Honey-A Review

Honey is one of the most valuable components of the human diet. It is considered to be a functional food with health-promoting properties. Honey has bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects; is used to treat wounds and ulcers; relieves stress; supports the treatment of diseases of the digestive and respiratory systems; improves kidney function; and aids in convalescence. The healing and prophylactic effects of honey are closely related to its chemical composition. According to the literature, honey contains over 300 substances belonging to various groups of chemical compounds, some with antioxidant activity, including vitamins and phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids. This article provides insight into honey's chemical composition and its pro-health activities. The antioxidant properties of honey were prioritized.

Dopamine-modified hyaluronic acid (DA-HA) as a novel dopamine-mimetics with minimal autoxidation and cytotoxicity

Dopamine-modified hyaluronic acid (DA-HA) has been initially developed as an efficient coating and adhesion material for industrial uses. However, the biological activity and safety of DA-HA in the brain have not been explored yet. Here, we report a series of evidence that DA-HA exhibits similar functionality as dopamine (DA), but with much lower toxicity arising from autoxidation. DA-HA shows very little autoxidation even after 48-h incubation. This is profoundly different from DA and its derivatives including l-DOPA, which all induce severe neuronal death after pre-autoxidation, indicating that autoxidation is the cause of neuronal death. Furthermore, in vivo injection of DA-HA induces significantly lower toxicity compared to 6-OHDA, a well-known oxidized and toxic form of DA, and alleviates the apomorphine-induced rotational behavior in the 6-OHDA animal model of Parkinson's disease. Our study proposes that DA-HA with DA-like functionalities and minimal toxicity has a great potential to treat DA-related disease.

Topical retinoids: Novel derivatives, nano lipid-based carriers, and combinations to improve chemical instability and skin irritation

BACKGROUND

Retinoids, defined as synthetic or natural derivatives of vitamin A, have been extensively studied as anti-aging molecules that are widely applied in cosmetics. However, due to their physicochemical property, retinoids are highly unstable and extremely sensitive to light, oxygen, and temperature. Moreover, topical application of retinoids often leads to cutaneous irritation. These instabilities and irritant properties of retinoids limit their application in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.

AIM

Our study aimed to provide a systematic review to summarize the mechanisms underlying the instability and irritant properties of retinoids, as well as recent developments in addressing these challenges.

METHODS

A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using the following keywords: retinoids, chemical instability, skin irritation, retinoid derivatives, nano lipid-based carriers, liposomes, penetration-enhancer vesicles, ethosomes, niosomes, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, vitamins, soothing and hydrating agents, antioxidants and metal chelator and retinol combinations. Relevant researches published between 1968 and 2023 and studies related to these reports were reviewed.

RESULTS

The development of new retinoid derivatives, the utilization of new delivery systems like nano lipid-based carriers and the combination with other compounds like vitamins, soothing agents, antioxidants and metal chelator have been explored to improve the stability, bioavailability, and toxicity of the retinoid family.

CONCLUSIONS

Through advancements in formulation techniques, structure modification of retinoid derivatives and development of novel nano lipid-based carriers, the chemical instability and skin irritation of retinoids has been mitigated, ensuring their efficacy and potency over extended periods.

Association between oxidative balance scores and all-cause and cardiovascular disease-related mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes: data from the national health and nutrition examination survey (2007-2018)

BACKGROUND

Oxidative Balance Scores (OBS) is composite measures that assess the balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant factors in an individual's diet and lifestyle. Evidence on OBS and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetic patients is scarce. This study investigates the potential association between OBS and CVD-prevalence and all-cause and CVD-related mortality in adult diabetic patients.

METHODS

Participants were selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2018. OBS-related data collection was initiated by linking the National Death Index to determine mortality due to all-cause and cardiovascular disease until December 31, 2019. Weighted logistic regression analyses explored the relationship between OBS and CVD. In addition, multivariable Cox proportional risk regression models and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to determine the correlation between OBS and mortality, with time to event as the time variable, as well as to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 3491 participants were included in the final analysis. Weighted logistic regression analysis of the relationship between OBS and CVD prevalence found that higher OBS was not associated with CVD prevalence compared with lower levels after fully adjustment in model 3 (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.51-1.31, P = 0.39). During 3,491 person-years of follow-up, 408 deaths were recorded, of which 105 deaths were attributed to CVD. In fully adjusted model 3, participants in the highest quartile of OBS had significant reductions in all-cause mortality of 53% [HR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.29-0.77), Ptrend= 0.002] and in cardiovascular disease mortality of 78% [HR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.08-0.56), Ptrend= 0.004], compared with the lowest quartile groups of OBS. The Kaplan-Meier analysis results showed that participants in the highest quartile of OBS had the lowest risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality and were statistically different (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis confirmed that P for interaction was significant only concerning the educational level attained and in individuals with a history of CKD (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although OBS wasn't very useful for assessing CVD prevalence outcomes, higher OBS was significantly associated with lower all-cause and CVD-related mortality, suggesting that maintaining adequate OBS may reduce mortality in patients with DM.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus 1.0207 Exopolysaccharides Attenuate Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress Damage in IPEC-J2 Cells through the Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) is one of the most commonly employed Lactobacillus in the food industry. Exopolysaccharides (EPS) of Lactobacillus, which are known to exhibit probiotic properties, are secondary metabolites produced during the growth of Lactobacillus. This study identified the structure of the EPS produced by L. bulgaricus 1.0207 and investigated the mitigation of L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS on H2O2-induced oxidative stress in IPEC-J2 cells. L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS consisted of glucose and galactose and possessed a molecular weight of 4.06 × 104 Da. L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS exhibited notable scavenging capacity against DPPH, hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions, and ABTS radicals. Additionally, L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS enhanced cell proliferation, reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) elevated the relative expression of CAT, SOD, HO-1, NQO1, ZO-1, and Occludin genes. Moreover, L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS improved the expression of Nrf2, pNrf2, pNrf2/Nrf2, and Bcl-2 proteins, while decreasing the expression of Keap1, Caspase3, and Bax proteins, with the best effect at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS mitigated H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury in IPEC-J2 cells by activating the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. Meanwhile, L. bulgaricus 1.0207 EPS exhibited the potential to decrease apoptosis and restore the integrity of the gut barrier. The findings establish a theoretical foundation for the development and application of L.bulgaricus 1.0207 and its EPS.

Cell death and DNA damage via ROS mechanisms after applied antibiotics and antioxidants doses in prostate hyperplasia primary cell cultures

Tumor heterogeneity results in aggressive cancer phenotypes with acquired resistance. However, combining chemical treatment with adjuvant therapies that cause cellular structure and function perturbations may diminish the ability of cancer cells to resist at chemical treatment and lead to a less aggressive cancer phenotype. Applied treatments on prostate hyperplasia primary cell cultures exerted their antitumor activities through mechanisms including cell cycle blockage, oxidative stress, and cell death induction by flow cytometry methods. A 5.37 mM Chloramphenicol dose acts on prostate hyperplasia cells by increasing the pro-oxidant status, inducing apoptosis, autophagy, and DNA damage, but without ROS changes. Adding 6.30 mM vitamin C or 622 µM vitamin E as a supplement to 859.33 µM Chloramphenicol dose in prostate hyperplasia cells determines a significant increase of ROS level for a part of cells. However, other cells remain refractory to initial ROS, with significant changes in apoptosis, autophagy, and cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 or G2/M. When the dose of Chloramphenicol was increased to 5.37 mM for 6.30 mM of vitamin C, prostate hyperplasia cells reacted by ROS level drastically decreased, cell cycle arrest in G2/M, active apoptosis, and autophagy. The pro-oxidant action of 1.51 mM Erythromycin dose in prostate hyperplasia cell cultures induces changes in the apoptosis mechanisms and cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. Addition of 6.30 mM vitamin C to 1.51 mM Erythromycin dose in hyperplasia cell cultures, the pro-oxidant status determines diminished caspase 3/7 mechanism activation, but ROS level presents similar changes as Chloramphenicol dose and cell cycle arrest in G2/M. Flow cytometric analysis of cell death, oxidative stress, and cell cycle are recommended as laboratory techniques in therapeutic and diagnostic fields.

Pharmacologic ascorbate induces transient hypoxia sensitizing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma to a hypoxia activated prodrug

Hypoxic tumor microenvironments pose a significant challenge in cancer treatment. Hypoxia-activated prodrugs like evofosfamide aim to specifically target and eliminate these resistant cells. However, their effectiveness is often limited by reoxygenation after cell death. We hypothesized that ascorbate's pro-oxidant properties could be harnessed to induce transient hypoxia, enhancing the efficacy of evofosfamide by overcoming reoxygenation. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the sensitivity of MIA Paca-2 and A549 cancer cells to ascorbate in vitro and in vivo. Ascorbate induced a cytotoxic effect at 5 mM that could be alleviated by endogenous administration of catalase, suggesting a role for hydrogen peroxide in its cytotoxic mechanism. In vitro, Seahorse experiments indicated that the generation of hydrogen peroxide consumes oxygen, which is offset at later time points by a reduction in oxygen consumption due to hydrogen peroxide's cytotoxic effect. In vivo, photoacoustic imaging showed pharmacologic ascorbate treatment at sublethal levels triggered a complex, multi-phasic response in tumor oxygenation across both cell lines. Initially, ascorbate generated transient hypoxia within minutes through hydrogen peroxide production, via reactions that consume oxygen. This initial hypoxic phase peaked at around 150 s and then gradually subsided. However, at longer time scales (approximately 300 s) a vasodilation effect triggered by ascorbate resulted in increased blood flow and subsequent reoxygenation. Combining sublethal levels of i. p. Ascorbate with evofosfamide significantly prolonged tumor doubling time in MIA Paca-2 and A549 xenografts compared to either treatment alone. This improvement, however, was only observed in a subpopulation of tumors, highlighting the complexity of the oxygenation response.

Effect of light on ascorbic acid biosynthesis and bioinformatics analysis of related genes in Chinese chives

Ascorbic acid (AsA) is an essential nutritional component and powerful antioxidant in vegetables, and in plants, AsA levels are regulated by light. AsA levels in the leaves of Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum Rottler ex Spr), a popular vegetable, are poorly understood. Thus, this study was performed to assess the influence of light on AsA biosynthesis in chive and select related genes (AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1); in addition, bioinformatic analyses and gene expression level assays were performed. The biological information obtained for AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1 was analysed with several tools, including NCBI, DNAMAN, and MEGA11. After different light treatments were performed, the Chive AsA content and AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1 expression levels were determined. These results suggest that 1) compared with natural light, continuous darkness inhibited AsA synthesis in chives. 2) The amino acid sequences of AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1 are very similar to those of other plants. 3) The trends observed for the expression levels of AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1 were consistent with the AsA content observed in chives. Hence, we speculated that light controls AsA biosynthesis in chives by regulating AtuGGP1 and AtuGME1 expression. This study provided impactful and informative evidence regarding the functions of GGP and GME in chives.