The prenylflavonoid isoxanthohumol from hops (Humulus lupulus L.) is activated into the potent phytoestrogen 8-prenylnaringenin in vitro and in the human intestine

Phytoestrogens as potential anti-osteoporosis nutraceuticals: Major sources and mechanism(s) of action

By 2050, the global aging population is predicted to reach 1.5 billion, highlighting the need to enhance the quality of life of the elderly population. Osteoporotic fractures are projected to affect one in three women and one in five men over age 50. Initial treatments for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women include antiresorptive agents such as bisphosphonates, strontium ranelate, estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). However, these do not rebuild bone, limiting their effectiveness. Denosumab, an FDA-approved antiresorptive monoclonal antibody, also has drawbacks including high costs, biannual subcutaneous injections, slow healing, impaired bone growth and side effects like eczema, flatulence, cellulitis, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) and an increased risk of spinal fractures after discontinuation of treatment. Nutraceuticals, particularly phytoestrogens, are gaining attention for their health benefits and safety in osteoporosis prevention, management and treatment. Phytoestrogens are plant metabolites similar to mammalian estrogens and include isoflavones, coumestans, lignans, stilbenes, and flavonoids. They interact with estrogen receptor isoforms ERα and ERβ, acting as agonists or antagonists based on concentration and bioavailability. Their tissue-selective activities are particularly significant: anti-estrogenic effects in reproductive tissues may lower the risk of hormone-related cancers (such as ovarian, uterine, breast and prostate), while estrogenic effects on bone could contribute to the preservation of bone mineral density.Phytoestrogens are, thus, used in managing breast and prostate cancers, cardiovascular diseases, menopause and osteoporosis. The present review focuses on the botanical origin, classification, sources and mechanism(s) of action of major phytoestrogens, their potential in prevention and management of osteoporosis and the requirement for additional clinical trials to achieve more definitive outcomes in order to confirm their efficacy and dosage safety.

Behavioral and Neuroprotective Properties of the Phytoestrogen 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN) in Ovariectomized Mice

8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN) is one of the most potent phytoestrogens identified to date. Despite its role as an estrogen receptor modulator and its vast therapeutic potential, the effects of this molecule on the brain and behavior of females remain largely unexplored. This study hypothesized that 8-PN exerts cognitive effects by preventing oxidative damage in the brain and promoting the expression of neurotrophins. Female mice were divided into five groups and received acute treatments with LPS (1 mg/kg), 8-PN (1 or 2 mg/kg), a combination of LPS and 8-PN doses, or a combination of vehicle solutions. Recognition memory, spatial memory, and social behavior were assessed using behavioral protocols. Prefrontal cortex and hippocampus samples were collected and analyzed for lipid peroxidation levels using the TBARS assay and for BDNF protein expression using western blot. A single injection of 8-PN at both doses attenuated the behavioral impairments caused by LPS exposure in recognition memory, spatial memory, and social behavior tasks. 8-PN at both doses protected the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus against lipid peroxidation, and 8-PN at 2 mg/kg promoted increased BDNF protein expression in the hippocampus. This study demonstrates that 8-PN has potential neuroprotective effects in the female brain in vivo and may be a promising drug candidate for preventing cognitive impairments in women.

Effects of NatureKnit™, a Blend of Fruit and Vegetable Fibers Rich in Naturally Occurring Bound Polyphenols, on the Metabolic Activity and Community Composition of the Human Gut Microbiome Using the M-SHIME® Gastrointestinal Model

This study evaluated the impact of a proprietary blend of fruit and vegetable fibers rich in naturally occurring bound polyphenols (commercially marketed as NatureKnitTM), compared to purified fibers (inulin and psyllium), on the human gut microbiome using the validated M-SHIME® gastrointestinal model. A short-term single-stage colonic M-SHIME® experiment (with fecal inoculum from three healthy human donors) was used to evaluate the test products compared to a negative control. Samples were assessed for pH, gas pressure, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, lactate, and ammonium from 0 h to 48 h. Microbial community composition was assessed at 0 h (negative control only), 24 h, and 48 h (lumen) or 48 h (mucosal). All test products were fermented well in the colon as demonstrated by decreases in pH and increases in gas pressure over time; these changes occurred faster with the purified fibers, whereas NatureKnit™ demonstrated slow, steady changes, potentially indicating a gentler fermentation process. SCFA production significantly increased over the course of the 48 h experiment with all test products versus negative control. SCFA production was significantly greater with NatureKnit™ versus the purified fibers. Shifts in the microbial community composition were observed with all test products versus negative control. At the conclusion of the 48 h experiment, the absolute bacterial abundance and the richness of observed bacterial taxa in the lumen compartment was significantly greater with NatureKnit™ compared with inulin, psyllium, and negative control. Overall, NatureKnit™ demonstrated greater or similar prebiotic effects on study measures compared with established prebiotic fibers.

Is there a place for natural agents with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties in critically ill patients? Potential usefulness of Xanthohumol

Multi-organ dysfunction is a major issue in critically ill patients, where a significant inflammatory response appears to be the primary factor driving the degree of organ impairment, which correlates with the extent of organ injury. The management of inflammation requires a multidisciplinary approach, including antibiotics for infection control, circulatory and respiratory support, and correction of coagulation abnormalities. However, the use of anti-inflammatory treatments is typically restricted to a selected group of medications, with their effectiveness remaining the subject of extensive debate. Xanthohumol (Xn), a natural compound extracted from hops, possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, with a mild anti-coagulation effect. Its biological activity is related to the inhibition of different inflammatory pathways, reduction in cytokine production and secretion, and an increase in antioxidative enzyme activity. This review examined the potential use of Xn as an adjuvant in the treatment of various pathologies in critically ill patients.

Perspective on the Coevolutionary Role of Host and Gut Microbiota in Polyphenol Health Effects: Metabotypes and Precision Health

"Personalized nutrition" aims to establish nutritional strategies to improve health outcomes for non-responders. However, it is utopian since most people share similar nutritional requirements. "Precision health," encompassing lifestyles, may be more fitting. Dietary (poly)phenols are "healthy" but non-nutritional molecules (thus, we can live without them). The gut microbiota influences (poly)phenol effects, producing metabolites with different activity than their precursors. Furthermore, producing distinctive metabolites, like urolithins, lunularin, and equol, leads to the term "polyphenol-related gut microbiota metabotypes," grouping individuals based on a genuine microbial metabolism of ellagic acid, resveratrol, and isoflavones, respectively. Additionally, (poly)phenols exert prebiotic-like effects through their antimicrobial activities, typically reducing microbial diversity and modulating microbiota functionality by impacting its composition and transcriptomics. Since the gut microbiota perceives (poly)phenols as a threat, (poly)phenol effects are mostly a consequence of microbiota adaptation through differential (poly)phenol metabolism (e.g., distinctive reductions, dehydroxylations, etc.). This viewpoint is less prosaic than considering (poly)phenols as essential nutritional players in human health, yet underscores their health significance in a coevolutionary partnership with the gut microbiota. In the perspective on the gut microbiota and (poly)phenols interplay, microbiota metabotypes could arbiter health effects. An innovative aspect is also emphasized: modulating the interacting microbial networks without altering the composition.

Effects of a 217-km mountain ultramarathon on the gut microbiota of an obese runner: A case report

Obesity is characterized by specific changes in the composition of the gut microbiota (GM). Exercise can contribute to the modulation of GM. This is the first case study to analyze the composition and metabolism of the GM of an obese runner in a single-stage mountain ultramarathon (MUM) with a mileage of 217 km. Fecal samples were collected 7 days before the race (T0), 15 min after the end of the race (T1), and 7 days after the end of the race (T2). GM composition was analyzed by real-time PCR and shotgun sequencing. We observed a decrease in Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio and α-diversity after the race. After the 217-km MUM, we observed a decrease in symbiont microorganisms and a notable increase in harmful bacteria. In conclusion, we found that the 217-km MUM may have contributed to the intestinal dysbiosis of the obese runner.

Biomarkers of food intake and their relevance to metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) constitutes a prevalent risk factor associated with non communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. A major factor impacting the etiology of MetS is diet. Dietary patterns and several individual food constituents have been related to the risk of developing MetS or have been proposed as adjuvant treatment. However, traditional methods of dietary assessment such as 24 h recalls rely greatly on intensive user-interaction and are subject to bias. Hence, more objective methods are required for unbiased dietary assessment and efficient prevention. While it is accepted that some dietary-derived constituents in blood plasma are indicators for certain dietary patterns, these may be too unstable (such as vitamin C as a marker for fruits/vegetables) or too broad (e.g. polyphenols for plant-based diets) or reflect too short-term intake only to allow for strong associations with prolonged intake of individual food groups. In the present manuscript, commonly employed biomarkers of intake including those related to specific food items (e.g. genistein for soybean or astaxanthin and EPA for fish intake) and novel emerging ones (e.g. stable isotopes for meat intake or microRNA for plant foods) are emphasized and their suitability as biomarker for food intake discussed. Promising alternatives to plasma measures (e.g. ethyl glucuronide in hair for ethanol intake) are also emphasized. As many biomarkers (i.e. secondary plant metabolites) are not limited to dietary assessment but are also capable of regulating e.g. anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways, special attention will be given to biomarkers presenting a double function to assess both dietary patterns and MetS risk.

Physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modeling as a new approach methodology (NAM) for predicting systemic levels of gut microbial metabolites

There is a clear need to develop new approach methodologies (NAMs) that combine in vitro and in silico testing to reduce and replace animal use in chemical risk assessment. Physiologically based kinetic (PBK) models are gaining popularity as NAMs in toxico/pharmacokinetics, but their coverage of complex metabolic pathways occurring in the gut are incomplete. Chemical modification of xenobiotics by the gut microbiome plays a critical role in the host response, for example, by prolonging exposure to harmful metabolites, but there is not a comprehensive approach to quantify this impact on human health. There are examples of PBK models that have implemented gut microbial biotransformation of xenobiotics with the gut as a dedicated metabolic compartment. However, the integration of microbial metabolism and parameterization of PBK models is not standardized and has only been applied to a few chemical transformations. A challenge in this area is the measurement of microbial metabolic kinetics, for which different fermentation approaches are used. Without a standardized method to measure gut microbial metabolism ex vivo/in vitro, the kinetic constants obtained will lead to conflicting conclusions drawn from model predictions. Nevertheless, there are specific cases where PBK models accurately predict systemic concentrations of gut microbial metabolites, offering potential solutions to the challenges outlined above. This review focuses on models that integrate gut microbial bioconversions and use ex vivo/in vitro methods to quantify metabolic constants that accurately represent in vivo conditions.

Gut enterotype-dependent modulation of gut microbiota and their metabolism in response to xanthohumol supplementation in healthy adults

Xanthohumol (XN), a polyphenol found in the hop plant (Humulus lupulus), has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, prebiotic, and anti-hyperlipidemic activity. Preclinical evidence suggests the gut microbiome is essential in mediating these bioactivities; however, relatively little is known about XN's impact on human gut microbiota in vivo. We conducted a randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03735420) to determine safety and tolerability of XN in healthy adults. Thirty healthy participants were randomized to 24 mg/day XN or placebo for 8 weeks. As secondary outcomes, quantification of bacterial metabolites and 16S rRNA gene sequencing were utilized to explore the relationships between XN supplementation, gut microbiota, and biomarkers of gut health. Although XN did not significantly change gut microbiota composition, it did re-shape individual taxa in an enterotype-dependent manner. High levels of inter-individual variation in metabolic profiles and bioavailability of XN metabolites were observed. Moreover, reductions in microbiota-derived bile acid metabolism were observed, which were specific to Prevotella and Ruminococcus enterotypes. These results suggest interactions between XN and gut microbiota in healthy adults are highly inter-individualized and potentially indicate that XN elicits effects on gut health in an enterotype-dependent manner.

Eating patterns contribute to shaping the gut microbiota in the mucosal simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem

Eating patterns, i.e. meal frequency and circadian timing of meals, are often modified in weight loss and metabolic healing strategies. However, in-depth research into the effects on the gut microbiome remains scarce, particularly across various colon regions and niches. We identified eating patterns to contribute in shaping the in vitro gut biomass production, metabolism, and microbial community compositions by subjecting four faecal microbiomes to a pattern that is standardized for a dynamic gut model (feeding at 09, 17, and 01 h), a typical Western (breakfast, lunch, and dinner at 09, 13, and 19 h, respectively), and a time-restricted pattern (single meal at 09 h). While eating patterns moderately affected the microbiome (2.4% and 1.8% significant variation in proportional and quantitative microbial compositions, respectively), significant changes were noted in the time-restricted pattern, including increased Bacteroides, Butyricicoccus, Dialister, and Faecalibacterium abundances. Sampling every 4 h revealed no significant circadian fluctuations in biomass production, microbial community compositions, or functionality. Longer fasting times favoured the growth of slower-growing species, such as Akkermansia, Dialister, and Parasutterella over faster-growers, such as Pseudomonas and Stenotrophomonas. Our findings illustrate the importance of recording and considering eating patterns as a gut microbiome determinant in in vivo and in vitro dietary intervention studies.

Gut microbial metabolites of dietary polyphenols and their potential role in human health and diseases

Polyphenols contribute as one of the largest groups of compounds among all the phytochemicals. Common sources of dietary polyphenols are vegetables, fruits, berries, cereals, whole grains, etc. Owing to their original form, they are difficult to get absorbed. Dietary polyphenols after undergoing gut microbial metabolism form bioaccessible and effective metabolites. Polyphenols and derived metabolites are all together a diversified group of compounds exhibiting pharmacological activities against cardiovascular, cancer, oxidative stress, inflammatory, and bacterial diseases. The formed metabolites are sometimes even more bioavailable and efficacious than the parent polyphenols. Studies on gut microbial metabolism of dietary polyphenols have introduced new approach for the use of polyphenol-rich food in the form of supplementary diet. This review provides insights on various aspects including classification of polyphenols, gut microbiota-mediated metabolism of polyphenols, chemistry of polyphenol metabolism, and pharmacological actions of gut microbial metabolites of polyphenols. It also suggests the use of polyphenols from marine source for the microbial metabolism studies. Till date, gut microbial metabolism of polyphenols from terrestrial sources is extensively studied as compared to marine polyphenols. Marine ecosystem is a profound but partially explored source of phytoconstituents. Among them, edible seaweeds contain high concentration of polyphenols, especially phlorotannins. Hence, microbial metabolism studies of seaweeds can unravel the pharmacological potential of marine polyphenol-derived metabolites.

Simulated gastrointestinal digestion of beer using the simgi® model. Investigation of colonic phenolic metabolism and impact on human gut microbiota

Beer is a source of bioactive compounds, mainly polyphenols, which can reach the large intestine and interact with colonic microbiota. However, the effects of beer consumption in the gastrointestinal function have scarcely been studied. This paper reports, for the first time, the in vitro digestion of beer and its impact on intestinal microbiota metabolism. Three commercial beers of different styles were subjected to gastrointestinal digestion using the simgi® model, and the digested fluids were further fermented in triplicate with faecal microbiota from a healthy volunteer. The effect of digested beer on human gut microbiota was evaluated in terms of microbial metabolism (short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and ammonium ion), microbial diversity and bacterial populations (plate counting and 16S rRNA gene sequencing). Monitoring beer polyphenols through the different digestion phases showed their extensive metabolism, mainly at the colonic stage. In addition, a higher abundance of taxa related to gut health, especially Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Mitsuokella and Succinilasticum at the genus level, and the Ruminococcaceae and Prevotellaceae families were found in the presence of beers. Regarding microbial metabolism, beer feeding significantly increased microbial SCFA production (mainly butyric acid) and decreased ammonium content. Overall, these results evidence the positive actions of moderate beer consumption on the metabolic activity of colonic microbiota, suggesting that the raw materials and brewing methods used may affect the beer gut effects.

Effect of a Hop Extract Standardized in 8-Prenylnaringenin on Bone Health and Gut Microbiome in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A One-Year Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Estrogen deficiency increases the risk of osteoporosis and fracture. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a hop extract standardized in 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), a potent phytoestrogen, could improve bone status of osteopenic women and to explore the gut microbiome roles in this effect. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, 100 postmenopausal, osteopenic women were supplemented with calcium and vitamin D3 (CaD) tablets and either a hop extract (HE) standardized in 8-PN (n = 50) or a placebo (n = 50) for 48 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism were assessed by DXA measurements and plasma bone biomarkers, respectively. Participant's quality of life (SF-36), gut microbiome composition, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were also investigated. In addition to the CaD supplements, 48 weeks of HE supplementation increased total body BMD (1.8 ± 0.4% vs. baseline, p < 0.0001; 1.0 ± 0.6% vs. placebo, p = 0.08), with a higher proportion of women experiencing an increase ≥1% compared to placebo (odds ratio: 2.41 ± 1.07, p < 0.05). An increase in the SF-36 physical functioning score was observed with HE versus placebo (p = 0.05). Gut microbiome α-diversity and SCFA levels did not differ between groups. However, a higher abundance of genera Turicibacter and Shigella was observed in the HE group; both genera have been previously identified as associated with total body BMD. These results suggest that an 8-PN standardized hop extract could beneficially impact bone health of postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

Biomarkers of moderate alcohol intake and alcoholic beverages: a systematic literature review

The predominant source of alcohol in the diet is alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, spirits and liquors, sweet wine, and ciders. Self-reported alcohol intakes are likely to be influenced by measurement error, thus affecting the accuracy and precision of currently established epidemiological associations between alcohol itself, alcoholic beverage consumption, and health or disease. Therefore, a more objective assessment of alcohol intake would be very valuable, which may be established through biomarkers of food intake (BFIs). Several direct and indirect alcohol intake biomarkers have been proposed in forensic and clinical contexts to assess recent or longer-term intakes. Protocols for performing systematic reviews in this field, as well as for assessing the validity of candidate BFIs, have been developed within the Food Biomarker Alliance (FoodBAll) project. The aim of this systematic review is to list and validate biomarkers of ethanol intake per se excluding markers of abuse, but including biomarkers related to common categories of alcoholic beverages. Validation of the proposed candidate biomarker(s) for alcohol itself and for each alcoholic beverage was done according to the published guideline for biomarker reviews. In conclusion, common biomarkers of alcohol intake, e.g., as ethyl glucuronide, ethyl sulfate, fatty acid ethyl esters, and phosphatidyl ethanol, show considerable inter-individual response, especially at low to moderate intakes, and need further development and improved validation, while BFIs for beer and wine are highly promising and may help in more accurate intake assessments for these specific beverages.

Prenylated Flavonoids with Selective Toxicity against Human Cancers

The antiproliferative activity of xanthohumol (1), a major prenylated chalcone naturally occurring in hops, and its aurone type derivative (Z)-6,4'-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-7-prenylaurone (2) were investigated. Both flavonoids, as well as cisplatin as a reference anticancer drug, were tested in vivo against ten human cancer cell lines (breast cancer (MCF-7, SK-BR-3, T47D), colon cancer (HT-29, LoVo, LoVo/Dx), prostate cancer (PC-3, Du145), lung cancer (A549) and leukemia (MV-4-11) and two normal cell lines (human lung microvascular endothelial (HLMEC)) and murine embryonic fibroblasts (BALB/3T3). Chalcone 1 and aurone 2 demonstrated potent to moderate anticancer activity against nine tested cancer cell lines (including drug-resistant ones). The antiproliferative activity of all the tested compounds against cancer and the normal cell lines was compared to determine their selectivity of action. Prenylated flavonoids, especially the semisynthetic derivative of xanthohumol (1), aurone 2, were found as selective antiproliferative agents in most of the used cancer cell lines, whereas the reference drug, cisplatin, acted non-selectively. Our findings suggest that the tested flavonoids can be considered strong potential candidates for further studies in the search for effective anticancer drugs.

Age-Dependent Prebiotic Effects of Soluble Corn Fiber in M-SHIME® Gut Microbial Ecosystems

Soluble corn fiber (SCF) has demonstrated prebiotic effects in clinical studies. Using an in vitro mucosal simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem (M-SHIME^®) model, the effects of SCF treatment on colonic microbiota composition and metabolic activity and on host-microbiome interactions were evaluated using fecal samples from healthy donors of different ages (baby [≤ 2 years], n = 4; adult [18-45 years], n = 2; elderly [70 years], n = 1). During the 3-week treatment period, M-SHIME^® systems were supplemented with SCF daily (baby, 1.5, 3, or 4.5 g/d; adult, 3 or 8.5 g/d; and elderly, 8.5 g/d). M-SHIME^® supernatants were evaluated for their effect on the intestinal epithelial cell barrier and inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide. (LPS)-stimulated cells. Additionally, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and microbial community composition were assessed. In the baby and adult models, M-SHIME^® supernatants from SCF treated vessels protected Caco-2 membrane integrity from LPS-induced damage. SCF treatment resulted in the expansion of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Bifidobacterial, as well as increased SCFA production in all age groups. SCF tended to have the greatest effect on propionate production. These findings demonstrate the prebiotic potential of SCF in babies, adults, and the elderly and provide insight into the mechanisms behind the observed prebiotic effects.

Phytotherapy of mood disorders in the light of microbiota-gut-brain axis

BACKGROUND

Clinical research in natural product-based psychopharmacology has revealed a variety of promising herbal medicines that may provide benefit in the treatment of mild mood disorders, however failed to unambiguously indicate pharmacologically active constituents. The emerging role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis opens new possibilities in the search for effective methods of treatment and prevention of mood disorders.

PURPOSE

Considering the clinically proven effectiveness juxtaposed with inconsistencies regarding the indication of active principles for many medicinal plants applied in the treatment of anxiety and depression, the aim of the review is to look at their therapeutic properties from the perspective of the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

METHOD

A literature-based survey was performed using Scopus, Pubmed, and Google Scholar databases. The current state of knowledge regarding Hypericum perforatum, Valeriana officinalis, Piper methysticum, Passiflora incarnata, Humulus lupulus, Melissa officinalis, Lavandula officinalis, and Rhodiola rosea in terms of their antimicrobial activity, bioavailability, clinical effectiveness in depression/anxiety and gut microbiota - natural products interaction was summarized and analyzed.

RESULTS

Recent studies have provided direct and indirect evidence that herbal extracts and isolated compounds are potent modulators of gut microbiota structure. Additionally, some of the formed postbiotic metabolites exert positive effects and ameliorate depression-related behaviors in animal models of mood disorders. The review underlines the gap in research on natural products - gut microbiota interaction in the context of mood disorders.

CONCLUSION

Modification of microbiota-gut-brain axis by natural products is a plausible explanation of their therapeutic properties. Future studies evaluating the effectiveness of herbal medicine and isolated compounds in treating mild mood disorders should consider the bidirectional interplay between phytoconstituents and the gut microbiota community.

Xanthohumol improves cognition in farnesoid X receptor-deficient mice on a high-fat diet

Xanthohumol (XN) improves cognition of wild-type rodents on a high-fat diet (HFD). Bile acids and ceramide levels in the liver and hippocampus might be linked to these effects. XN modulates activity of the nuclear farnesoid X receptor (FXR; also known as NR1H4), the primary receptor for bile acids. To determine the role of FXR in the liver and intestine in mediating the effects of XN on cognitive performance, mice with intestine- and liver-specific FXR ablation (FXRIntestine-/- and FXRLiver-/-, respectively) on an HFD or an HFD containing XN were cognitively tested. XN improved cognitive performance in a genotype- and sex-dependent manner, with improved task learning in females (specifically wild-type), reversal learning in males (specifically wild-type and FXRIntestine-/- mutant) and spatial learning (both sexes). XN increased hippocampal diacylglycerol and sphingomyelin levels in females but decreased them in males. XN increased the ratio of shorter-chain to longer-chain ceramides and hexaceramides. Higher diacylglycerol and lower longer-chain ceramide and hexaceramide levels were linked to improved cognitive performance. Thus, the beneficial sex-dependent cognitive effects of XN are linked to changes in hippocampal diacylglycerol and ceramide levels. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Chemical diversity, biological activities and Traditional uses of and important Chinese herb Sophora

BACKGROUND

Sophora flavescens Aiton (SF), also known as Kushen (Chinese:), has been an important species in Chinese medicine since the Qin and Han dynasties. It is also recognized as a plant resource suitable for the globalization of Chinese medicine. Traditionally, it has been used in various ethnic medical systems in East Asia, especially in China, to kill insects and dispel dampness. Sophora flavescens is commonly used for clearing heat-clearing, killing worms, and diuretic. Nowdays, accumulating studies demonstrated its anticancer and cardioprotection.

OBJECTIVE OF THE REVIEW

This paper aims to systematically review information on the genus, pharmacological and toxicological significance, chemical composition and biological activity of Sophora flavescens. To promoting its development and application. To summarize recent findings regarding to the metabolism, pharmacological/toxicological effects of Sophora flavescens.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Online academic databases (including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and CNKI) were searched using search terms of "Sophora flavescens Aiton", "Ku shen", "Pharmacology", "Active ingredient", "Toxicology" and combinations to include published studies of Sophora flavescens Aiton primarily from 1970-2021. Several critical previous studies beyond this period were also included and other related terms.

CONCLUSION

Sophora flavescens has a broad spectrum of biological activities associated with Sophora flavescens has been considered a valuable resource in both traditional and modern medicine. However, there is a lack of in-depth studies on the medicinal uses of Sophora flavescens. Moreover, further studies on single chemical components should be conducted based on the diversity of chemical structures, significant biological activities and clinical applications. The discovery of its bioactive molecules and multi-component interactions would be of great importance for the clinical application of Sophora flavescens spp. Detailed pharmacological and toxicological studies on the classic prescriptions of Sophora flavescens are also needed. It is more beneficial to the wide application of SF plant and facilitates the worldwide promotion of modern Chinese medicine. However, an increasing number of reports indicate that the administration of Sophora flavescens has serious adverse effects. Its main toxic effects are neurotoxicity and acute toxicity, which have caused widespread concern worldwide. In addition, the alkaloids of Sophora flavescens are distributed in the heart, liver, stomach and large intestine. They are excreted from the body through gluconeogenesis, which is the mode of action of certain therapeutic mechanisms of action such as anticancer. The detailed metabolic study of alkaloids and other components of Sophora flavescens in vivo needs to be further investigated. It is important to improve the pharmacological effects and reduce the toxicity of Sophora flavescens. For this purpose, structural modification of active components of Sophora flavescens or combination with other drugs is very essential.

8-Prenylnaringenin tissue distribution and pharmacokinetics in mice and its binding to human serum albumin and cellular uptake in human embryonic kidney cells

8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN), a hop flavonoid, is a promising food substance with health benefits. Compared with nonprenylated naringenin, 8-PN exhibits stronger estrogenic activity and prevents muscle atrophy. Moreover, 8-PN prevents hot flushes and bone loss. Considering that prenylation reportedly improves the bioavailability of flavonoids, we compared the parameters related to the bioavailability [pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution in C57/BL6 mice, binding affinity to human serum albumin (HSA), and cellular uptake in HEK293 cells] of 8-PN and its mother (non-prenylated) compound naringenin. C57/BL6 mice were fed an 8-PN or naringenin mixed diet for 22 days. The amount of 8-PN (nmol/g tissue) in the kidneys (16.8 ± 9.20), liver (14.8 ± 2.58), muscles (3.33 ± 0.60), lungs (2.07 ± 0.68), pancreas (1.80 ± 0.38), heart (1.71 ± 0.27), spleen (1.36 ± 0.29), and brain (0.31 ± 0.09) was higher than that of naringenin. A pharmacokinetic study in mice demonstrated that the C _max of 8-PN (50 mg/kg body weight) was lower than that of naringenin; however, the plasma concentration of 8-PN 8 h after ingestion was higher than that of naringenin. The binding affinity of 8-PN to HSA and cellular uptake in HEK293 cells were higher than those of naringenin. 8-PN bioavailability features assessed in mouse or human model experiments were obviously different from those of naringenin.

The Potent Phytoestrogen 8-Prenylnaringenin: A Friend or a Foe?

8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN) is a prenylated flavonoid, occurring, in particular, in hop, but also in other plants. It has proven to be one of the most potent phytoestrogens in vitro known to date, and in the past 20 years, research has unveiled new effects triggered by it in biological systems. These findings have aroused the hopes, expectations, and enthusiasm of a “wonder-drug” for a host of human diseases. However, the majority of 8-PN effects require such high concentrations that they cannot be reached by normal dietary exposure, only pharmacologically; thus, adverse impacts may also emerge. Here, we provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review on this fascinating compound, with special reference to the range of beneficial and untoward health consequences that may ensue from exposure to it.

Antioxidants in Hops: Bioavailability, Health Effects and Perspectives for New Products

Hop plant (Humulus lupulus L.) has been used by humans for ages, presumably first as a herbal remedy, then in the manufacturing of different products, from which beer is the most largely consumed. Female hops cones have different useful chemical compounds, an important class being antioxidants, mainly polyphenols. This narrative review describes the main antioxidants in hops, their bioavailability and biological effects, and the results obtained by now in the primary and secondary prevention of several non-communicable diseases, such as the metabolic syndrome related diseases and oncology. This article presents in vitro and in vivo data in order to better understand what was accomplished in terms of knowledge and practice, and what needs to be clarified by additional studies, mainly regarding xantohumol and its derivates, as well as regarding the bitter acids of hops. The multiple protective effects found by different studies are hindered up to now by the low bioavailability of some of the main antioxidants in hops. However, there are new promising products with important health effects and perspectives of use as food supplements, in a market where consumers increasingly search for products originating directly from plants.

Herbal Products Used in Menopause and for Gynecological Disorders

Herbal products are often used as an alternative to pharmacological therapy. Menopausal symptoms and gynecological disorders (such as premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea) are the indications where pharmacological therapy may have serious adverse events, hence many women prefer to use herbal products to help with these symptoms. Here, we reviewed plants and derived products, which are commonly used for the abovementioned indications, focusing on clinical data, safely profile and whether or not their use is justified. We noted that limited data are available on the use of some plants for alleviating the symptoms of menopause and gynecological disorders. While black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemose) and red clover (Trifolium pretense) were consistently shown to help reduce menopausal symptoms in clinical studies, currently available data do not fully support the use of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), hops (Humulus lupulus), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), and soybean (Glycine max and Glycine soja) for this indication. For premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) shows effectiveness, but more clinical studies are needed to confirm such effect upon the use of evening primrose (Oenothera biennis).

Distribution of Urolithins Metabotypes in Healthy Chinese Youth: Difference in Gut Microbiota and Predicted Metabolic Pathways

This is the first study to report the distribution of urolithin metabotypes (UMs) in Asian people, specifically in the Chinese. As was reported for Europeans and Latin Americans, three UMs were observed, UM-A (54.3%), UM-B (31.4%), and UM-0 (14.3%), in 35 healthy Chinese youth. The richness and diversity of gut microbiota were lower in UM-0 than in UM-A and UM-B at the genus level. Gordonibacter in UM-A and UM-B was significantly higher than that in UM-0. The Akkermansia was not found in UM-0. The correlation analysis between the type and content of urolithins and the gut microbiota at the genus level showed that 27 genera were significantly positively correlated with urolithin A and 20 genera were significantly positively associated with isourolithin A and urolithin B. In addition, different KEGG pathways such as TCA cycle, energy metabolism, and some disease were found between the gut microbiome of the three UMs. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms of metabotypes and the differential health benefits or illness predisposition of the three UMs.

Contribution of Biotransformations Carried Out by the Microbiota, Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes, and Transport Proteins to the Biological Activities of Phytochemicals Found in the Diet

The consumption of dietary phytochemicals has been associated with several health benefits and relevant biological activities. It is postulated that biotransformations of these compounds regulated by the microbiota, Phase I/II reactions, transport proteins, and deconjugating enzymes contribute not only to their metabolic clearance but also, in some cases, to their bioactivation. A number of factors (age, genetics, sex, physiopathological conditions, and the interplay with other dietary phytochemicals) modulating metabolic activities are important sources and contributors to the interindividual variability observed in clinical studies evaluating the biological activities of phytochemicals. In this review, we discuss all the processes that can affect the bioaccessibility and beneficial effects of these bioactive compounds. Herein, we argue that the role of these factors must be further studied to correctly understand and predict the effects observed following the intake of phytochemicals. This is, in particular, with regard to in vitro investigations, which have shown great inconsistency with preclinical and clinical studies. The complexity of in vivo metabolic activity and biotransformation should therefore be considered in the interpretation of results in vitro and their translation to human physiopathology.

Nutrient load acts as a driver of gut microbiota load, community composition and metabolic functionality in the simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem

A recently introduced quantitative framework for gut microbiota analysis indicated that microbial load alterations can be linked to various diseases, making it essential to pinpoint its determinants. We identified nutrient load as a main driver of the quantitative microbial community composition and functionality in vitro by stepwise decreasing standardised feed concentrations from 100% to 33, 20 and 10% in five-day intervals. While the proportional composition and metabolic profile were mainly determined by the inter-individual variability (35 and 41%), nutrient load accounted for 58%, 23% and 65% of the observed variation in the microbial load, quantitative composition and net daily metabolite production, respectively. After the tenfold nutrient reduction, the microbial load decreased by 79.72 ± 9% and 82.96 ± 1.66% in the proximal and distal colon, respectively, while the net total short-chain fatty acid production dropped by 79.42 ± 4.42% and 84.58 ± 2.42%, respectively. The majority of microbial taxa quantitatively decreased, whereas a select group of nutritional specialists, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Bilophila wadsworthia and a number of opportunistic pathogens remained unaffected. This shows that nutrient load is an important driver of the human gut microbiome and should be considered in future in vitro and in vivo dietary research.

Moderate Consumption of Beer (with and without Ethanol) and Menopausal Symptoms: Results from a Parallel Clinical Trial in Postmenopausal Women

The menopausal transition can be a challenging period for women’s health and a trigger of uncomfortable symptoms. Beer is the main food source of isoxanthohumol, a precursor of 8-prenylnaringenin, the strongest phytoestrogen identified to date. As phytoestrogens are reported to reduce perimenopausal symptoms, we evaluated if a daily moderate consumption of beer with (AB) and without alcohol (NAB) could improve menopausal symptoms and modify cardiovascular risk factors. A total of 37 postmenopausal women were enrolled in a parallel controlled intervention trial and assigned to three study groups: 16 were administered AB (330 mL/day), 7 NAB (660 mL/day), and 14 were in the control group. After a 6-month follow-up of the 34 participants who finished the trial, both interventions (AB and NAB) significantly reduced the severity of the menopause-related symptoms (p-value AB vs. Control: 0.009; p-value NAB vs. Control: 0.033). Moreover, AB had a beneficial net effect on psychological menopausal discomforts compared to the control group. As the sex hormone profile did not differ significantly between the study groups, the effects of both types of beers (AB and NAB) are attributed to the non-alcoholic fraction of beer. Furthermore, moderate NAB consumption improved the lipid profile and decreased blood pressure in postmenopausal women.

Systemically Achievable Doses of Beer Flavonoids Induce Estrogenicity in Human Endometrial Cells and Cause Synergistic Effects With Selected Pesticides

Some prenylated polyphenols originating from hops, which are thus natural constituents of beer, have been discussed critically for their agonistic potential toward estrogen receptors. So far, little attention has been attributed to the fact that humans are typically not exposed to isolated compounds, but to mixtures which for example might comprise in addition to hop flavonoids further xenoestrogens, e.g., certain pesticides used for plant protection of hops and barley. Thus, we used the alkaline phosphatase assay to assess combinatory estrogenic effects of three signature compounds – xanthohumol, 8-prenylnaringenin and iso-xanthohumol–on Ishikawa cells in a combination that resembled the concentration ratios observable in beer. Moreover, we added this natural flavonoid pattern to a mixture of representative estrogenic pesticides to assess their combined effects. Using state-of-the-art statistical tools, we observed cumulative to slightly synergistic effects between isolated flavonoids as well as the flavonoid and the pesticide mixture. Of potential importance, these effects were found at low nanomolar hop polyphenol concentrations that one can reasonably expect to occur in vivo after the consumption of strongly hopped beer. Taken together, our results imply that cumulative/synergistic estrogenicity should be explored in detail and urgently be incorporated into risk assessment of prenylated chalcones.

Characterization of phase I and phase II metabolites of hop (Humulus lupulus L.) bitter acids: In vitro and in vivo metabolic profiling by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap

Bitter acids are a class of prenylated phloroglucinol derivatives present in Humulus lupulus L., known for their multiple healthy properties, nevertheless, research regarding their metabolism and stability is lacking. This study was aimed to elucidate the metabolic stability of hop α- and β-acids and characterize I and II phase metabolites in vitro and in vivo. For this purpose, an ultra high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) method was developed and validated. Mice liver microsomes were used to assess metabolic stability; in vitro t_1/2 and clearance values were calculated, showing a moderate metabolism for α-acids (_avgt_1/2: 120.01 min, _avgCL_int 11.96 μL/min/mg), while β-acids were metabolized faster (_avgt_1/2: 103.01 min, _avgCL_int: 13.83 μL/min/mg). I and II phase metabolites were characterized both in in vitro, and in vivo, in mouse plasma and urine after oral administration. A combined full scan/data dependent/precursor ion list-triggered neutral loss (FS/dd-MS²/PIL-tNL) strategy was used to detect unknown and expected metabolites. As a result, 33 compounds were detected, including novel metabolites, such as 9 potential oxidized metabolites of humulones (M6-M14), and 10 glucuronide conjugates of α-acids, comprising 7 glucuronide derivatives of oxidized phase I metabolites (M26-M32). The proposed method extends the current knowledge regarding metabolization of hop α- and β-acids and could be applied for the comprehension of the metabolic fate of this class of compounds in different species, as well as for in vivo pharmacokinetic studies.

Xanthohumol Microbiome and Signature in Healthy Adults (the XMaS Trial): Safety and Tolerability Results of a Phase I Triple-Masked, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

SCOPE

Xanthohumol, a prenylflavonoid from hops, has been extensively studied preclinically but has undergone limited research in human subjects. A triple-masked, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial was conducted to examine the safety and tolerability of xanthohumol.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thirty healthy volunteers were randomized to 24 mg day-1 xanthohumol (99.8% pure) or placebo for eight weeks. Comprehensive metabolic panels, complete blood counts, body weight, vital signs, and health-related quality of life questionnaires were assessed every two weeks. Participants were interviewed for adverse events (AEs) throughout the trial. Thirteen of 14 (93%) and 14 of 16 (88%) participants completed the trial in the placebo and xanthohumol groups, respectively. There were no withdrawals due to AEs. There were no clinically relevant, between-group differences in laboratory biomarkers, body weight, vital signs, or health-related quality of life. There were no severe or FDA-defined serious AEs, but non-serious AEs are documented in both the placebo (n = 42) and xanthohumol (n = 58) groups.

CONCLUSION

Over an eight-week period, 24 mg daily xanthohumol was safe and well-tolerated by healthy adults.

A draft phased assembly of the diploid Cascade hop (Humulus lupulus) genome

Hop (Humulus lupulus L. var Lupulus) is a diploid, dioecious plant with a history of cultivation spanning more than one thousand years. Hop cones are valued for their use in brewing and contain compounds of therapeutic interest including xanthohumol. Efforts to determine how biochemical pathways responsible for desirable traits are regulated have been challenged by the large (2.8 Gb), repetitive, and heterozygous genome of hop. We present a draft haplotype-phased assembly of the Cascade cultivar genome. Our draft assembly and annotation of the Cascade genome is the most extensive representation of the hop genome to date. PacBio long-read sequences from hop were assembled with FALCON and partially phased with FALCON-Unzip. Comparative analysis of haplotype sequences provides insight into selective pressures that have driven evolution in hop. We discovered genes with greater sequence divergence enriched for stress-response, growth, and flowering functions in the draft phased assembly. With improved resolution of long terminal retrotransposons (LTRs) due to long-read sequencing, we found that hop is over 70% repetitive. We identified a homolog of cannabidiolic acid synthase (CBDAS) that is expressed in multiple tissues. The approaches we developed to analyze the draft phased assembly serve to deepen our understanding of the genomic landscape of hop and may have broader applicability to the study of other large, complex genomes.

In vitro gastrointestinal digestion and fermentation models and their applications in food carbohydrates

Food nutrients plays a crucial role in human health, especially in gastrointestinal (GI) health. The effect of food nutrients on human health mainly depends on the digestion and fermentation process in the GI tract. In vitro GI digestion and fermentation models had the advantages of reproducibility, simplicity, universality, and could integrally simulate the in vivo conditions to mimic oral, gastric, small intestinal and large intestinal digestive processes. They could not only predict the relationship among material composition, structure and digestive characteristics, but also evaluate the bioavailability of material components and the impact of digestive metabolites on GI health. This review systematicly summarized the current state of the in vitro simulation models, and made detailed descriptions for their applications, advantages and disadvantages, and specially their applications in food carbohydrates. In addition, it also provided the suggestions for the improvement of in vitro models and firstly proposed to establish a set of standardized methods of in vitro dynamic digestion and fermentation conditions for food carbohydrates, which were in order to further evaluate more effects of the nutrients on human health in future.

Drug Disposition in the Lower Gastrointestinal Tract: Targeting and Monitoring

The increasing prevalence of colonic diseases calls for a better understanding of the various colonic drug absorption barriers of colon-targeted formulations, and for reliable in vitro tools that accurately predict local drug disposition. In vivo relevant incubation conditions have been shown to better capture the composition of the limited colonic fluid and have resulted in relevant degradation and dissolution kinetics of drugs and formulations. Furthermore, drug hurdles such as efflux transporters and metabolising enzymes, and the presence of mucus and microbiome are slowly integrated into drug stability- and permeation assays. Traditionally, the well characterized Caco-2 cell line and the Ussing chamber technique are used to assess the absorption characteristics of small drug molecules. Recently, various stem cell-derived intestinal systems have emerged, closely mimicking epithelial physiology. Models that can assess microbiome-mediated drug metabolism or enable coculturing of gut microbiome with epithelial cells are also increasingly explored. Here we provide a comprehensive overview of the colonic physiology in relation to drug absorption, and review colon-targeting formulation strategies and in vitro tools to characterize colonic drug disposition.

Recent patents on therapeutic activities of xanthohumol: a prenylated chalconoid from hops (Humulus lupulus L.)

There is expanding proof that specific natural compounds found in plants have additional conventional medicinal properties. One such compound is xanthohumol (XN), which is being explored as an antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory agent - aside from its utilization in dealing with conditions like autism, bone and skin improvement and microbial infections, lipid-related illnesses, and so on. XN is reported to suppress the uncontrolled production of inflammatory mediators responsible for diseases including cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration and tumors. Further, it is accounted to limit adipogenesis and control obesity by focusing on principal adipocyte marker proteins. It is most generally utilized in the brewing industry as an additive and flavoring agent to add bitterness and aroma to beer. Present investigation sum up the patents filed in most recent 2 years on development of different pharmaceutical mixes and strategies dependent on various therapeutic potentials of XN.

Downy mildew resistance is genetically mediated by prophylactic production of phenylpropanoids in hop

Downy mildew in hop (Humulus lupulus L.) is caused by Pseudoperonospora humuli and generates significant losses in quality and yield. To identify the biochemical processes that confer natural downy mildew resistance (DMR), a metabolome- and genome-wide association study was performed. Inoculation of a high density genotyped F1 hop population (n = 192) with the obligate biotrophic oomycete P. humuli led to variation in both the levels of thousands of specialized metabolites and DMR. We observed that metabolites of almost all major phytochemical classes were induced 48 hr after inoculation. But only a small number of metabolites were found to be correlated with DMR and these were enriched with phenylpropanoids. These metabolites were also correlated with DMR when measured from the non-infected control set. A genome-wide association study revealed co-localization of the major DMR loci and the phenylpropanoid pathway markers indicating that the major contribution to resistance is mediated by these metabolites in a heritable manner. The application of three putative prophylactic phenylpropanoids led to a reduced degree of leaf infection in susceptible genotypes, confirming their protective activity either directly or as precursors of active compounds.

Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beer Modulate Plasma and Macrophage microRNAs Differently in a Pilot Intervention in Humans with Cardiovascular Risk

Beer is a popular beverage and some beneficial effects have been attributed to its moderate consumption. We carried out a pilot study to test if beer and non-alcoholic beer consumption modify the levels of a panel of 53 cardiometabolic microRNAs in plasma and macrophages. Seven non-smoker men aged 30–65 with high cardiovascular risk were recruited for a non-randomised cross-over intervention consisting of the ingestion of 500 mL/day of beer or non-alcoholic beer for 14 days with a 7-day washout period between interventions. Plasma and urine isoxanthohumol were measured to assess compliance with interventions. Monocytes were isolated and differentiated into macrophages, and plasma and macrophage microRNAs were analysed by quantitative real-time PCR. Anthropometric, biochemistry and dietary parameters were also measured. We found an increase in plasma miR-155-5p, miR-328-3p, and miR-92a-3p after beer and a decrease after non-alcoholic beer consumption. Plasma miR-320a-3p levels decreased with both beers. Circulating miR-320a-3p levels correlated with LDL-cholesterol. We found that miR-17-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-145-5p, miR-26b-5p, and miR-223-3p macrophage levels increased after beer and decreased after non-alcoholic beer consumption. Functional analyses suggested that modulated microRNAs were involved in catabolism, nutrient sensing, Toll-like receptors signalling and inflammation. We concluded that beer and non-alcoholic beer intake modulated differentially plasma and macrophage microRNAs. Specifically, microRNAs related to inflammation increased after beer consumption and decreased after non-alcoholic beer consumption.

Bio- and chemo- transformations of glabranin and 7-O-methylglabranin and cytotoxic evaluations of the transformed products

The biotransformation of glabranin (1) with Aspergillus niger and Cunninghamella blakesleeana favoured the formation of benzofuran derivatives (3 and 4), while in contrast, its acid-catalysed chemical transformation favoured the formation of benzopyran derivatives (6 and 7). Compound 6 was further biooxidised at C-4'. Biotransformation of 7-O-methylglabranin (2) proceeded via oxidation of the prenyl group and C-4' by the same fungi, and the obtention of 11 mimics the biosynthesis of this last compound. Some compounds displayed moderate antiproliferative activity against selected human cancer cell lines, with glabranin being the most active, suggesting that the prenyl group and the phenol at C-7 are important structural determinants for cytotoxicity.

Combined in silico and in vitro studies to identify novel antidiabetic flavonoids targeting glycogen phosphorylase

Novel pharmacological strategies for the treatment of diabetic patients are now focusing on inhibiting glycogenolysis steps. In this regard, glycogen phosphorylase (GP) is a validated target for the discovery of innovative antihyperglycemic molecules. Natural products, and in particular flavonoids, have been reported as potent inhibitors of GP at the cellular level. Herein, free-energy calculations and microscale thermophoresis approaches were performed to get an in-depth assessment of the binding affinities and elucidate intermolecular interactions of several flavonoids at the inhibitor site of GP. To our knowledge, this is the first study indicating genistein, 8-prenylgenistein, apigenin, 8-prenylapigenin, 8-prenylnaringenin, galangin and valoneic acid dilactone as natural molecules with high inhibitory potency toward GP. We identified: i) the residues Phe285, Tyr613, Glu382 and/or Arg770 as the most relevant for the binding of the best flavonoids to the inhibitor site of GP, and ii) the 5-OH, 7-OH, 8-prenyl substitutions in ring A and the 4'-OH insertion in ring B to favor flavonoid binding at this site. Our results are invaluable to plan further structural modifications through organic synthesis approaches and develop more effective pharmaceuticals for Type 2 Diabetes treatment, and serve as the starting point for the exploration of food products for therapeutic usage, as well as for the development of novel bio-functional food and dietary supplements/herbal medicines.

Changes in physiological activities and root exudation profile of two grapevine rootstocks reveal common and specific strategies for Fe acquisition

In several cultivation areas, grapevine can suffer from Fe chlorosis due to the calcareous and alkaline nature of soils. This plant species has been described to cope with Fe deficiency by activating Strategy I mechanisms, hence increasing root H⁺ extrusion and ferric-chelate reductase activity. The degree of tolerance exhibited by the rootstocks has been reported to depend on both reactions, but to date, little emphasis has been given to the role played by root exudate extrusion. We studied the behaviour of two hydroponically-grown, tolerant grapevine rootstocks (Ramsey and 140R) in response to Fe deficiency. Under these experimental conditions, the two varieties displayed differences in their ability to modulate morpho-physiological parameters, root acidification and ferric chelate reductase activity. The metabolic profiling of root exudates revealed common strategies for Fe acquisition, including ones targeted at reducing microbial competition for this micronutrient by limiting the exudation of amino acids and sugars and increasing instead that of Fe(III)-reducing compounds. Other modifications in exudate composition hint that the two rootstocks cope with Fe shortage via specific adjustments of their exudation patterns. Furthermore, the presence of 3-hydroxymugenic acid in these compounds suggests that the responses of grapevine to Fe availability are rather diverse and much more complex than those usually described for Strategy I plants.

Association of Moderate Beer Consumption with the Gut Microbiota and SCFA of Healthy Adults

Fermented alcoholic drinks' contribution to the gut microbiota composition is mostly unknown. However, intestinal microorganisms can use compounds present in beer. This work explored the associations between moderate consumption of beer, microbiota composition, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profile. Seventy eight subjects were selected from a 261 healthy adult cohort on the basis of their alcohol consumption pattern. Two groups were compared: (1) abstainers or occasional consumption (ABS) (n = 44; <1.5 alcohol g/day), and (2) beer consumption ≥70% of total alcohol (BEER) (n = 34; 200 to 600 mL 5% vol. beer/day; <15 mL 13% vol. wine/day; <15 mL 40% vol. spirits/day). Gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA gene sequencing) and SCFA concentration were analyzed in fecal samples. No differences were found in α and β diversity between groups. The relative abundance of gut bacteria showed that Clostridiaceae was lower (p = 0.009), while Blautia and Pseudobutyrivibrio were higher (p = 0.044 and p = 0.037, respectively) in BEER versus ABS. In addition, Alkaliphilus, in men, showed lower abundance in BEER than in ABS (p = 0.025). Butyric acid was higher in BEER than in ABS (p = 0.032), and correlated with Pseudobutyrivibrio abundance. In conclusion, the changes observed in a few taxa, and the higher butyric acid concentration in consumers versus non-consumers of beer, suggest a potentially beneficial effect of moderate beer consumption on intestinal health.

Spatial and temporal modulation of enterotoxigenic E. coli H10407 pathogenesis and interplay with microbiota in human gut models

BACKGROUND

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) substantially contributes to the burden of diarrheal illnesses in developing countries. With the use of complementary in vitro models of the human digestive environment, TNO gastrointestinal model (TIM-1), and Mucosal Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (M-SHIME), we provided the first detailed report on the spatial-temporal modulation of ETEC H10407 survival, virulence, and its interplay with gut microbiota. These systems integrate the main physicochemical parameters of the human upper digestion (TIM-1) and simulate the ileum vs ascending colon microbial communities and luminal vs mucosal microenvironments, captured from six fecal donors (M-SHIME).

RESULTS

A loss of ETEC viability was noticed upon gastric digestion, while a growth renewal was found at the end of jejunal and ileal digestion. The remarkable ETEC mucosal attachment helped to maintain luminal concentrations above 6 log₁₀ mL^-1 in the ileum and ascending colon up to 5 days post-infection. Seven ETEC virulence genes were monitored. Most of them were switched on in the stomach and switched off in the TIM-1 ileal effluents and in a late post-infectious stage in the M-SHIME ascending colon. No heat-labile enterotoxin production was measured in the stomach in contrast to the ileum and ascending colon. Using 16S rRNA gene-based amplicon sequencing, ETEC infection modulated the microbial community structure of the ileum mucus and ascending colon lumen.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a better understanding of the interplay between ETEC and gastrointestinal cues and may serve to complete knowledge on ETEC pathogenesis and inspire novel prophylactic strategies for diarrheal diseases.

Flavonoids as Phytoestrogenic Components of Hops and Beer

The value of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in beer production has been undisputed for centuries. Hops is rich in humulones and lupulones which gives the characteristic aroma and bitter taste, and preserves this golden drink against growing bacteria and molds. Besides α- and β-acids, the lupulin glands of hop cones excrete prenylated flavonoids, which exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities and therefore has therapeutic potential in humans. Recently, interest in hops was raised due to hop prenylated flavanones which show extraordinary estrogen activities. The strongest known phytoestrogen so far is 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), which along with 6-prenylanaringenin (6-PN), 6,8-diprenylnaringenin (6,8-DPN) and 8-geranylnaringenin (8-GN) are fundamental for the potent estrogen activity of hops. This review provides insight into the unusual hop phytoestrogens and shows numerous health benefits associated with their wide spectrum of biological activities including estrogenic, anticancer, neuropreventive, antinflamatory, and antimicrobial properties, which were intensively studied, and potential applications of these compounds such as, as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

The role of probiotics on the roadmap to a healthy microbiota: a symposium report

The ninth International Yakult Symposium was held in Ghent, Belgium in April 2018. Keynote lectures were from Professor Wijmenga on using biobanks to understand the relationship between the gut microbiota and health; and Professor Hill on phage-probiotic interactions. Session one included talks from Professor Plӧsch on epigenetic programming by nutritional and environmental factors; Professor Wilmes on the use of "omics" methodologies in microbiome research and Professor Rescigno on the gut vascular barrier. Session two explored the evidence behind Lactobacillus casei Shirota with Dr Nanno explaining the plasticity in immunomodulation that enables the strain to balance immune functions; Dr Macnaughtan outlining its potential therapeutic use in cirrhosis and Professor Nishida detailing effects in subjects under stress. The third session saw Professor Marchesi describing that both the host genes and the gut microbiota can play a role in cancer; Professor Bergheim highlighting crosstalk between the gut and the liver and Professor Cani describing the relationship between the gut microbiota and the endocrine system. The final session explored probiotic mechanisms, with Professor Lebeer dissecting the challenges in conducting mechanistic studies; Professor Wehkamp describing the mucosal defence system and Professor Van de Wiele detailing methods for modelling the gut microbiota in vitro.

Functional Beer—A Review on Possibilities

The expansion of the beer industry has enabled many possibilities for improvement regarding the taste, aroma and functionality of this drink. Health-related issues and a general wish for healthier lifestyles has resulted in increased demand for functional beers. The addition of different herbs or adjuncts in wort or beer has been known for centuries. However, today’s technologies provide easier ways to do this and offer additional functional properties for the health benefits and sensory adjustments of classical beer. Medicinal, religious or trendy reasons for avoiding certain compounds in beer or the need to involve new ones in the brewing recipe has broadened the market for the brewing industry and made beer more accessible to consumers who, till now, avoided beer.

Targeting the Liver-Brain Axis with Hop-Derived Flavonoids Improves Lipid Metabolism and Cognitive Performance in Mice

SCOPE

Sphingolipids including ceramides are implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and insulin resistance. Correspondingly, inhibition of pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic ceramide accumulation prevents obesity-mediated insulin resistance and cognitive impairment. Increasing evidence suggests the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is involved in ceramide metabolism, as bile acid-FXR crosstalk controls ceramide levels along the gut-liver axis. The authors previously reported that FXR agonist xanthohumol (XN), the principal prenylated flavonoid in hops (Humulus lupulus), and its hydrogenated derivatives, α,β-dihydroxanthohumol (DXN), and tetrahydroxanthohumol (TXN), ameliorated obesity-mediated insulin resistance, and cognitive impairment in mice fed a high-fat diet.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To better understand how the flavonoids improve both, lipid and bile acid profiles in the liver are analyzed, sphingolipid relative abundance in the hippocampus is measured, and linked them to metabolic and neurocognitive performance. XN, DXN, and TXN (30 mg kg-1 BW per day) decrease ceramide content in liver and hippocampus; the latter is linked to improvements in spatial learning and memory. In addition, XN, DXN, and TXN decrease hepatic cholesterol content by enhancing de novo synthesis of bile acids.

CONCLUSION

These observations suggest that XN, DXN, and TXN may alleviate obesity-induced metabolic and neurocognitive impairments by targeting the liver-brain axis.