Gut microbiota metabolism of anthocyanin promotes reverse cholesterol transport in mice via repressing miRNA-10b

Revisiting the role of GDF15 in atherosclerosis in mouse and human

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a key regulator of food intake and energy metabolism. GDF15 mimetic drugs for the treatment of metabolic syndrome and obesity are under clinical development. While GDF15 presents a promising target for weight management, its potential cardiovascular actions remain elusive. In this study we investigated the role of GDF15 in macrophage function and atherosclerosis pathogenesis and whether GDF15 acts both as a biomarker and mediator of atherosclerosis severity. ApoE-/- mice were fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD, 1.25% cholesterol) for 6, 12 or 18 weeks to establish atherosclerotic models. We showed that serum levels of GDF15 were elevated in ApoE-/- mice with atheroprogression; increased serum levels of GDF15 were also observed in patients with coronary artery disease. Enlightened by this finding, we established atherosclerotic model in Gdf15-/- mice by injecting with AAV8-PCSK9D377Y virus and feeding HCD for 12 or 16 weeks. We showed that global Gdf15 knockout, whether in male or female mice, did not alter plaque size in en face aorta, lesion in aortic sinus, size of necrotic core or plaque composition. In macrophage-derived foam cells isolated from atherosclerotic mice, neither Gdf15 deletion nor the treatment with recombinant GDF15 protein (1, 10, 100 ng/mL) affected lipid deposition or macrophage polarization. To translate this finding into a clinically relevant scenario, we performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, and found no significant causal association between circulating GDF15 levels and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, MR studies suggest that genetic associations between GDF15 and factors such as BMI, ApoB, LDL and HDL were not significant in plasma data from the UK Biobank and the deCODE cohort. In summary, this study demonstrates that global Gdf15 deficiency does not affect the development of atherosclerosis in male or female mice despite the positive association between circulating GDF15 levels and disease progression in mice and human. Thus, GDF15 in circulation is a potential biomarker, but not a causal mediator, of atherosclerosis. Long-term cardiovascular safety of GDF15-targeted therapies warrants further investigation.

Protocatechuic Acid Attenuates Inflammation in Macrophage-like Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in ApoE-/- Mice

Background/Objectives: Non-resolving inflammation in macrophage-like cells (MLCs) transdifferentiated from vascular smooth muscle cells and monocyte-derived macrophages aggravates atherosclerosis. We previously showed that polyphenolic protocatechuic acid (PCA) could reduce inflammation burden in monocyte-derived macrophages; however, it remains unknown how this compound affects MLCs inflammation. Methods: MLCs from the transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells induced by cholesterol and 30-week-old male ApoE-/- mice fed a semi-purified AIN-93G diet containing either 0.003% (wt:wt) of PCA for a duration of 20 weeks were used to examine the impact of PCA on the inflammatory response of MLCs. Results: Physiologically achievable doses of PCA (0.25-1 μM) dose-dependently inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation and simultaneously reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Mechanistically, this effect was mediated by effecting exportin-1 function, promoting nuclear export of phosphorylated-p65, independent of NF-κB kinase inhibitor α/β/γ, NF-κB inhibitor α, or importin-mediated nuclear import of p-p65. PCA reduced the nucleocytoplasmic ratio of exportin-1 (44%) without altering its abundance. Importantly, dietary supplementation with PCA reduced interleukin-1β content within MLCs in atherosclerotic plaques of ApoE-/- mice. In addition, dietary PCA reduced MLCs content in atherosclerotic plaques. Conclusions: PCA could attenuate inflammatory response in MLCs by targeting exportin-1 and also could inhibit the transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells into MLCs within atherosclerotic plaques, which might promote the translation from preclinical studies to clinical trials in patients with atherosclerosis.

Gut microbial metabolites: The bridge connecting diet and atherosclerosis, and next-generation targets for dietary interventions

Mounting evidence indicates that gut microbial metabolites are central hubs linking the gut microbiota to atherosclerosis (AS). Gut microbiota enriched with pathobiont bacteria responsible for producing metabolites like trimethylamine N-oxide and phenylacetylglutamine are related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Furthermore, gut microbiota enriched with bacteria responsible for producing short-chain fatty acids, indole, and its derivatives, such as indole-3-propionic acid, have demonstrated AS-protective effects. This study described AS-related gut microbial composition and how microbial metabolites affect AS. Summary findings revealed gut microbiota and their metabolites-targeted diets could benefit AS treatment. In conclusion, dietary interventions centered on the gut microbiota represent a promising strategy for AS treatment, and understanding diet-microbiota interactions could potentially be devoted to developing novel anti-AS therapies.

Bidirectional Interplay Among Non-Coding RNAs, the Microbiome, and the Host During Development and Diseases

It is widely known that the dysregulation of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and dysbiosis of the gut microbiome play significant roles in host development and the progression of various diseases. Emerging evidence has highlighted the bidirectional interplay between ncRNAs and the gut microbiome. This article aims to review the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between ncRNAs, especially microRNA (miRNA), and the gut microbiome in the context of development and diseases, such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, neurological disorders, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Ultimately, this review seeks to provide a foundation for exploring the potential roles of ncRNAs and gut microbiome interactions as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for clinical diagnosis and treatment, such as ncRNA mimics, antisense oligonucleotides, and small-molecule compounds, as well as probiotics, prebiotics, and diets.

Brussels Chicory Enhances Exhaustive Aerobic Exercise Performance and Post-Exercise Recovery, Possibly Through Promotion of Lactate Oxidation: A Pilot Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Way Crossover Study

BACKGROUND

Brussels chicory affluent in phenolic acids could inhibit atherosclerosis; however, its effects on exercise performance and post-exercise recovery are unknown. We hypothesized that Brussels chicory could enhance exhaustive aerobic exercise performance and post-exercise recovery by promoting lactate oxidation.

METHODS

This is a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled two-way cross-over trial involving 32 untrained college students (men 18) who consumed either Brussels chicory juice (100 g of Brussels chicory containing ~130 mg phenolic acids and 180 mL fresh milk) or placebo (180 mL fresh milk) for 7 days with a 2-week washout period. On the 7th day, participants received a short-term, progressive workload, high-intensity, exhaustive aerobic exercise with the Bruce protocol. Time to exhaustion and blood lactate were evaluated after exercise. C2C12 myotubes were treated with Brussels chicory phenolic acids (0.625-10 μM) to evaluate these effects on lactate metabolism and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and B (LDHB), two enzymes responsible for lactate biosynthesis and oxidation, respectively.

RESULTS

Brussels chicory consumption increased time to exhaustion by 8.3% and 12.2% for men and women participants, respectively. This administration also promoted post-exercise recovery, evidenced by a reduction in blood lactate (14.5% for men and 10.6% for women). In C2C12 myotubes, Brussels chicory protocatechuic acid and caffeic acid did not affect LHDA-mediated lactate production, whereas these compounds dose-dependently promoted LDHB-mediated lactate oxidation through an enrichment of mitochondria LDHB.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary supplementation with Brussels chicory may enhance short-term, progressive workload, high-intensity, exhaustive aerobic exercise performance and post-exercise recovery in humans, possibly by accelerating LDHB-mediated lactate oxidation.

Flavonoids for gastrointestinal tract local and associated systemic effects: A review of clinical trials and future perspectives

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids are naturally occurring dietary phytochemicals with significant antioxidant effects aside from several health benefits. People often consume them in combination with other food components. Compiling data establishes a link between bioactive flavonoids and prevention of several diseases in animal models, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, gut dysbiosis, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). However, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the ineffectiveness of flavonoids contradicting rodent models, thereby challenging the validity of using flavonoids as dietary supplements.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review provides a clinical perspective to emphasize the effective roles of dietary flavonoids as well as to summarize their specific mechanisms in animals briefly.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

First, this review offers an in-depth elucidation of the metabolic processes of flavonoids within human, encompassing the small, large intestine, and the liver. Furthermore, the review provides a comprehensive overview of the various functions of flavonoids in the gastrointestinal tract, including hindering the breakdown and assimilation of macronutrients, such as polysaccharides and lipids, regulating gut hormone secretion as well as inhibition of mineral iron absorption. In the large intestine, an unabsorbed major portion of flavonoids interact with the gut flora leading to their biotransformation. Once absorbed and circulated in the bloodstream, bioactive flavonoids or their metabolites exert numerous beneficial systemic effects. Lastly, we examine the protective effects of flavonoids in several metabolic disorders, including endothelial dysfunction, MASLD, cardiovascular disease, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance. In conclusion, this review outlines the safety and future prospects of flavonoids in the field of health, especially in the prevention of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Health Benefits and Future Research of Phytochemicals: A Literature Review

Phytochemicals are nonnutritive substances found in plant foods that contribute significantly to the flavor and color of foods. These substances are usually classified as polyphenols, terpenes, sulfur-containing compounds, nitrogen-containing compounds, and others. Numerous studies over the last decades have demonstrated these substances play an immeasurable role in physiological regulation, health care, and disease prevention through their actions in antioxidation, anti-inflammation, antiaging, antivirus, anticancer, antithrombosis, lipid profile regulation, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, immunity regulation, and improvement of metabolic functions. This article reviews the chemistry and biochemistry of phytochemicals, their classification and chemical structure, occurrence and biosynthesis in plants, and biological activities and implications for human health and various diseases. The discussions are focused on the most recent important advances in these phytochemical researches. In addition, some future research directions of phytochemicals are set forth regarding dose-response, their mechanism and targets, interactions with gut microbiota, and impact on human health and different stages of chronic diseases.

Effect of anthocyanins on metabolic syndrome through interacting with gut microbiota

Metabolic syndrome, as a complex pathological condition, is caused by a series of pathogenic factors and has become a global public health challenge. Anthocyanins, a natural water-soluble flavonoid pigment, have attracted much attention due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer biological activities. After ingestion, a majority of anthocyanins is not directly absorbed but rather reaches the colon. Hence, the exertion of their biological benefits is closely intertwined with the role played by gut microbiota. In this review, we introduce the pathogenesis and intervention methods of metabolic syndrome, as well as the interaction between anthocyanins and gut microbiota. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of anthocyanins through gut microbiota in addressing a range of metabolic syndrome conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, osteoporosis, and cancer.

The onset and the development of cardiometabolic aging: an insight into the underlying mechanisms

Metabolic compromise is crucial in aggravating age-associated chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, increased LDL and triglycerides, and elevated blood pressure. Excessive adiposity, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance due to aging are associated with elevated levels of damaging free radicals, inducing a proinflammatory state and hampering immune cell activity, leading to a malfunctioning cardiometabolic condition. The age-associated oxidative load and redox imbalance are contributing factors for cardiometabolic morbidities via vascular remodelling and endothelial damage. Recent evidence has claimed the importance of gut microbiota in maintaining regular metabolic activity, which declines with chronological aging and cardiometabolic comorbidities. Genetic mutations, polymorphic changes, and environmental factors strongly correlate with increased vulnerability to aberrant cardiometabolic changes by affecting key physiological pathways. Numerous studies have reported a robust link between biological aging and cardiometabolic dysfunction. This review outlines the scientific evidence exploring potential mechanisms behind the onset and development of cardiovascular and metabolic issues, particularly exacerbated with aging.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside ameliorates hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress by regulating HMGCR-mediated cholesterol anabolism in HEK-293T cells

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), as a typical anthocyanin, exhibits excellent antioxidant effects. This study aimed to demonstrate the role and mechanism of C3G in regulating 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR)-mediated cholesterol anabolism on H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HEK-293T cells. Firstly, the inhibitory effect of C3G on oxidative stress was confirmed by CCK-8, ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) experiments. Then, proteomics was used to investigate and screen differentially expressed proteins in inhibiting cellular oxidative stress by C3G. HMGCR was screened as a key differentially expressed protein by proteomic analysis. The results verified that C3G could reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP2)/HMGCR pathway, increasing ATP, and reducing acetyl-CoA. Finally, HMGCR had been shown to positively increase ROS accumulation and decrease MMP, which were reversed by intervention of C3G through a series of knockdown and overexpression experiments. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that C3G could inhibit the disorder of cholesterol synthesis in oxidative stress cells by regulating the ROS/SREBP2/HMGCR pathway.

Silymarin decreases liver stiffness associated with gut microbiota in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Despite centuries of traditional use of silymarin for hepatoprotection, current randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies on the effectiveness of silymarin in managing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are limited and inconclusive, particularly when it is administered alone. The low bioavailability of silymarin highlights the possible influence of gut microbiota on the effectiveness of silymarin; however, no human studies have investigated this aspect.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the potential efficacy of silymarin in improving MASLD indicators and to investigate the underlying mechanisms related to gut microbiota.

METHOD

In this 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 83 patients with MASLD were randomized to either placebo (n = 41) or silymarin (103.2 mg/d, n = 42). At 0, 12, and 24 weeks, liver stiffness and hepatic steatosis were assessed using FibroScan, and blood samples were gathered for biochemical detection, while faecal samples were collected at 0 and 24 weeks for 16S rRNA sequencing.

RESULTS

Silymarin supplementation significantly reduced liver stiffness (LSM, -0.21 ± 0.17 vs. 0.41 ± 0.17, P = 0.015) and serum levels of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT, -8.21 ± 3.01 vs. 1.23 ± 3.16, P = 0.042) and ApoB (-0.02 ± 0.03 vs. 0.07 ± 0.03, P = 0.023) but had no significant effect on the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), other biochemical indicators (aminotransferases, total bilirubin, glucose and lipid parameters, hsCRP, SOD, and UA), physical measurements (DBP, SBP, BMI, WHR, BF%, and BMR), or APRI and FIB-4 indices. Gut microbiota analysis revealed increased species diversity and enrichment of Oscillospiraceae in the silymarin group.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that silymarin supplementation could improve liver stiffness in MASLD patients, possibly by modulating the gut microbiota.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200059043).

Exploring the gut microbiota's crucial role in acute pancreatitis and the novel therapeutic potential of derived extracellular vesicles

During acute pancreatitis, intestinal permeability increases due to intestinal motility dysfunction, microcirculatory disorders, and ischemia-reperfusion injury, and disturbances in the intestinal flora make bacterial translocation easier, which consequently leads to local or systemic complications such as pancreatic and peripancreatic necrotic infections, acute lung injury, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Therefore, adjusting intestinal ecosystem balance may be a promising approach to control local and systemic complications of acute pancreatitis. In this paper, we reviewed the causes and manifestations of intestinal flora disorders during acute pancreatitis and their complications, focused on the reduction of acute pancreatitis and its complications by adjusting the intestinal microbial balance, and innovatively proposed the treatment of acute pancreatitis and its complications by gut microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles.

Comparison of the hepatoprotection of intragastric and intravenous cyanidin-3-glucoside administration: focus on the key metabolites and gut microbiota modulation

Liver injury is a life-threatening condition, and the hepatoprotective potential of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) has been previously demonstrated. However, due to the low bioavailability, it has been doubtful that relatively low concentrations of intact C3G in vivo could account for these bioactivities. In this study, the hepatoprotective effects of intragastric and intravenous administration of C3G were investigated in a CCl4 induced liver injury model. Intragastric C3G administration was more effective than intravenous C3G injection in reducing serum damage biomarkers, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses, indicating that absorption of C3G into the bloodstream does not fully account for its observed benefits in vivo. Furthermore, intragastric C3G administration modulated the gut microbiota structure and increased the contents of five metabolites in the feces and serum with high inter-individual variation, indicating the key role of the interaction between C3G and the gut microbiota. At equivalent doses, the metabolites cyanidin and protocatechuic acid exhibited greater efficacy than C3G in reducing apoptosis and ROS production by activating the Nrf2 pathway in an AAPH-induced oxidative stress model. To achieve the desired health effects via C3G-rich food intake, more attention should be paid to microbially derived catabolites. Screening of specific metabolite-producing strains will help overcome individual differences and enhance the health-promoting effects of C3G.

The Impact of Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

This meta-analysis aimed to summarise clinical evidence regarding the effect of supplementation with cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) on different cardiometabolic outcomes. An extensive literature survey was carried out until 10 April 2024. A total of 415 participants from six eligible studies were included. The overall results from the random-effects model indicated that cornelian cherry supplementation significantly reduced body weight (standardised mean difference [SMD] = -0.27, confidence interval [CI]: -0.52, -0.02, p = 0.03), body mass index (SMD = -0.42, CI: -0.73, -0.12, p = 0.007), fasting blood glucose (SMD = -0.46, CI: -0.74, -0.18, p = 0.001), glycated haemoglobin (SMD = -0.70, CI: -1.19, -0.22, p = 0.005), and HOMA-IR (SMD = -0.89, CI: -1.62, -0.16, p = 0.02), while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly increased (SMD = 0.38, CI: 0.10, 0.65, p = 0.007). A sensitivity analysis showed that cornelian cherry supplementation significantly reduced total plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and insulin levels. Cornelian cherry supplementation did not significantly affect waist circumference and liver parameters among the participants. Considering these findings, this meta-analysis indicates that supplementation with cornelian cherry may impact diverse cardiometabolic risk factors among individuals considered to be at a high risk.

Early Immunomodulatory Program Triggered by Protolerogenic Bifidobacterium pseudolongum Drives Cardiac Transplant Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Despite ongoing improvements to regimens preventing allograft rejection, most cardiac and other organ grafts eventually succumb to chronic vasculopathy, interstitial fibrosis, or endothelial changes, and eventually graft failure. The events leading to chronic rejection are still poorly understood and the gut microbiota is a known driving force in immune dysfunction. We previously showed that gut microbiota dysbiosis profoundly influences the outcome of vascularized cardiac allografts and subsequently identified biomarker species associated with these differential graft outcomes.

METHODS

In this study, we further detailed the multifaceted immunomodulatory properties of protolerogenic and proinflammatory bacterial species over time, using our clinically relevant model of allogenic heart transplantation.

RESULTS

In addition to tracing longitudinal changes in the recipient gut microbiome over time, we observed that Bifidobacterium pseudolongum induced an early anti-inflammatory phenotype within 7 d, whereas Desulfovibrio desulfuricans resulted in a proinflammatory phenotype, defined by alterations in leukocyte distribution and lymph node (LN) structure. Indeed, in vitro results showed that B pseudolongum and D desulfuricans acted directly on primary innate immune cells. However, by 40 d after treatment, these 2 bacterial strains were associated with mixed effects in their impact on LN architecture and immune cell composition and loss of colonization within gut microbiota, despite protection of allografts from inflammation with B pseudolongum treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These dynamic effects suggest a critical role for early microbiota-triggered immunologic events such as innate immune cell engagement, T-cell differentiation, and LN architectural changes in the subsequent modulation of protolerant versus proinflammatory immune responses in organ transplant recipients.

Anthocyanins-gut microbiota-health axis: A review

Anthocyanins are a subclass of flavonoids responsible for color in some fruits and vegetables with potent antioxidative capacity. During digestion, a larger proportion of dietary anthocyanins remains unabsorbed and reach the large intestine where they interact with the gut microbiota. Anthocyanins can modulate gut microbial populations to improve diversity and the proportion of beneficial populations, leading to alterations in short chain fatty acid and bile acid production. Some anthocyanins can be degraded into colonic metabolites, such as phenolic acids, which accumulate in the body and regulate a range of biological activities. Here we provide an overview of the effects of dietary anthocyanin consumption on gut microbial interactions, metabolism, and composition. Progression of chronic diseases has been strongly associated with imbalances in gut microbial populations. We therefore focus on the role of the gut microbiota as the 'mediator' that facilitates the therapeutic potential of anthocyanins against various chronic diseases, including obesity, type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease and osteoarthritis.

Gut microbiota: a superior operator for dietary phytochemicals to improve atherosclerosis

Mounting evidence implicates the gut microbiota as a possible key susceptibility factor for atherosclerosis (AS). The employment of dietary phytochemicals that strive to target the gut microbiota has gained scientific support for treating AS. This study conducted a general overview of the links between the gut microbiota and AS, and summarized available evidence that dietary phytochemicals improve AS via manipulating gut microbiota. Then, the microbial metabolism of several dietary phytochemicals was summarized, along with a discussion on the metabolites formed and the biotransformation pathways involving key gut bacteria and enzymes. This study additionally focused on the anti-atherosclerotic potential of representative metabolites from dietary phytochemicals, and investigated their underlying molecular mechanisms. In summary, microbiota-dependent dietary phytochemical therapy is a promising strategy for AS management, and knowledge of "phytochemical-microbiota-biotransformation" may be a breakthrough in the search for novel anti-atherogenic agents.

Bioavailability of Anthocyanins: Whole Foods versus Extracts

Anthocyanins have gained significant popularity in recent years for their diverse health benefits, yet their limited bioavailability poses a challenge. To address this concern, technologies have emerged to enhance anthocyanin concentration, often isolating these compounds from other food constituents. However, the extent to which isolated anthocyanins confer health benefits compared to their whole-food counterparts remains unclear. This review explores the current literature on anthocyanin bioavailability and metabolism in the body, with a focus on comparing bioavailability when consumed as extracts versus whole foods rich in anthocyanins, drawing from in vitro, in vivo, and human clinical studies. While direct comparisons between anthocyanin bioavailability in whole foods versus isolates are scarce, prevailing evidence favours whole-food consumption over anthocyanin extracts. Further clinical investigations, preferably with direct comparisons, are needed to validate these findings and elucidate the nuanced interplay between anthocyanins and food matrices, informing future research directions and practical recommendations.

Probiotics, gut microbiome, and cardiovascular diseases: An update

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are one of the most challenging diseases and many factors have been demonstrated to affect their pathogenesis. One of the major factors that affect CVDs, especially atherosclerosis, is the gut microbiota (GM). Genetics play a key role in linking CVDs with GM, in addition to some environmental factors which can be either beneficial or harmful. The interplay between GM and CVDs is complex due to the numerous mechanisms through which microbial components and their metabolites can influence CVDs. Within this interplay, the immune system plays a major role, mainly based on the immunomodulatory effects of microbial dysbiosis and its resulting metabolites. The resulting modulation of chronic inflammatory processes was found to reduce the severity of CVDs and to maintain cardiovascular health. To better understand the specific roles of GM-related metabolites in this interplay, this review presents an updated perspective on gut metabolites related effects on the cardiovascular system, highlighting the possible benefits of probiotics in therapeutic strategies.

Chronic Stress Dampens Lactobacillus Johnsonii-Mediated Tumor Suppression to Enhance Colorectal Cancer Progression

Colorectal cancer development and outcome are impacted by modifiable risk factors, including psychologic stress. The gut microbiota has also been shown to be linked to psychologic factors. Here, we found a marked deteriorative effect of chronic stress in multiple colorectal cancer models, including chemically induced (AOM/DSS), genetically engineered (APCmin/+), and xenograft tumor mouse models. RNA sequencing data from colon tissues revealed that expression of stemness-related genes was upregulated in the stressed colorectal cancer group by activated β-catenin signaling, which was further confirmed by results from ex vivo organoid analyses as well as in vitro and in vivo cell tumorigenicity assays. 16S rRNA sequencing of the gut microbiota showed that chronic stress disrupted gut microbes, and antibiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplantation abolished the stimulatory effects of chronic stress on colorectal cancer progression. Stressed colorectal cancer mice displayed a significant decrease in Lactobacillus johnsonii (L. johnsonii) abundance, which was inversely correlated with tumor load. Moreover, protocatechuic acid (PCA) was identified as a beneficial metabolite produced by L. johnsonii based on metabolome sequencing and LC/MS-MS analysis. Replenishment of L. johnsonii or PCA blocked chronic stress-induced colorectal cancer progression by decreasing β-catenin expression. Furthermore, PCA activated the cGMP pathway, and the cGMP agonist sildenafil abolished the effects of chronic stress on colorectal cancer. Altogether, these data identify that stress impacts the gut microbiome to support colorectal cancer progression.

SIGNIFICANCE

Chronic stress stimulates cancer stemness by reducing the intestinal abundance of L. johnsonii and its metabolite PCA to enhance β-catenin signaling, forming a basis for potential strategies to circumvent stress-induced cancer aggressiveness. See related commentary by McCollum and Shah, p. 645.

Blueberry intervention mitigates detrimental microbial metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide by modulating gut microbes

Gut microbes play a pivotal role in host physiology by producing beneficial or detrimental metabolites. Gut bacteria metabolize dietary choline and L-carnitine to trimethylamine (TMA) which is then converted to trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). An elevated circulating TMAO is associated with diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer in humans. In the present study, we investigated the effect of dietary blueberries and strawberries at a nutritional dosage on TMA/TMAO production and the possible role of gut microbes. Blueberry cohort mice received a control (C) or freeze-dried blueberry supplemented (CB) diet for 12 weeks and subgroups received an antibiotics cocktail (CA and CBA). Strawberry cohort mice received a control (N) or strawberry-supplemented (NS) diet and subgroups received antibiotics (NA and NSA). Metabolic parameters, choline, TMA, and TMAO were assessed in addition to microbial profiling and characterization of berry powders. Blueberry supplementation (equivalent to 1.5 human servings) reduced circulating TMAO in CB versus C mice (~48%) without changing choline or TMA. This effect was not mediated through alterations in metabolic parameters. Dietary strawberries did not reduce choline, TMA, or TMAO. Depleting gut microbes with antibiotics in these cohorts drastically reduced TMA and TMAO to not-quantified levels. Further, dietary blueberries increased the abundance of bacterial taxa that are negatively associated with circulating TMA/TMAO suggesting the role of gut microbes. Our phenolic profiling indicates that this effect could be due to chlorogenic acid and increased phenolic contents in blueberries. Our study provides evidence for considering dietary blueberries to reduce TMAO and prevent TMAO-induced complications.

Dietary nobiletin regulated cefuroxime- and levofloxacin-associated "gut microbiota-metabolism" imbalance and intestinal barrier dysfunction in mice

Nobiletin (NOB) exhibits significant biological activities and may be a potential dietary treatment for antibiotic-associated gut dysbiosis. In this study, mice were gavaged with 0.2 mL day-1 of 12.5 g L-1 cefuroxime (LFX) and 10 g L-1 levofloxacin (LVX) for a duration of 10 days, accompanied by 0.05% NOB to investigate the regulatory effect and potential mechanisms of NOB on antibiotic-induced intestinal microbiota disorder and intestinal barrier dysfunction. Our results indicated that dietary NOB improved the pathology of intestinal epithelial cells and the intestinal permeability by upregulating the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins (TJs) and the number of goblet cells. Furthermore, dietary NOB reduced the levels of serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-1β), thereby facilitating the restoration of the intestinal mucosal barrier. Additionally, dietary NOB increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria f_Lachnospiraceae and regulated the metabolic disorders of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids (BAs). Notably, NOB supplementation resulted in elevated levels of butyric acid and lithocholic acid (LCA), which contributed to the repair of the intestinal mucosal barrier function and the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis. Collectively, our results propose a healthy dietary strategy for the prevention or mitigation of antibiotic-associated gut dysbiosis by dietary NOB.

Gut Microbiota Depletion Using Antibiotics to Investigate Diet-Derived Microbial Metabolites: An Efficient Strategy

SCOPE

Gut microbiota depletion using antibiotics in drinking water is a valuable tool to investigate the role of gut microbes and microbial metabolites in health and disease. However, there are challenges associated with this model. Animals avoid drinking water because of the antibiotic bitterness, which affects their metabolic health. The present study develops an efficient strategy to deplete gut microbes without affecting metabolic parameters.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male C57BL/6J mice (7 weeks old) are fed a control (C) or high-fat (HF) diet. Subgroups of C and HF mice receive an antibiotic cocktail in drinking water (CA and HA). The antibiotic dosage is gradually increased so that the animals adapt to the taste of antibiotics. Metabolic parameters, gut microbiome, and microbial metabolites are assessed after 12 weeks treatment. Culture methods and 16s rRNA amplification confirm the depletion of gut microbes in antibiotic groups (CA and HA). Further, antibiotic treatment does not alter metabolic parameters (body weight, body fat, lean body mass, blood glucose, and glucose/insulin tolerance), whereas it suppresses the production of diet-derived microbial metabolites (trimethylamine and trimethylamine-N-oxide).

CONCLUSION

This strategy effectively depletes gut microbes and suppresses the production of microbial metabolites in mice without affecting their metabolic health.

Protocatechuic acid alleviates TMAO-aggravated atherosclerosis via mitigating inflammation, regulating lipid metabolism, and reshaping gut microbiota

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is a risk factor for atherosclerosis. As a natural phenolic acid, protocatechuic acid (PCA) is abundant in various plant foods. The present study investigated the effect of PCA on TMAO-aggravated atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice. The mice were randomly divided into five groups and fed one of the following five diets for 12 weeks: namely a low-fat diet (LFD), a western diet (WD), a WD + 0.2% TMAO diet (WDT), a WDT + 0.5% PCA diet (WDT + LPCA), and a WDT + 1.0% PCA diet (WDT + HPCA). Results demonstrated that dietary TMAO exacerbated the development of atherosclerosis by eliciting inflammation and disturbing lipid metabolism. The diet with PCA at 1% reduced TMAO-induced aortic plaque by 30% and decreased the levels of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines. PCA also improved lipid metabolism by up-regulating the hepatic gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). In addition, PCA supplementation enhanced fecal excretion of fatty acids and decreased hepatic fat accumulation. PCA supplementation favorably modulated gut microbiota by increasing the α-diversity with an increase in the abundance of beneficial genera (Rikenella, Turicibacter, Clostridium_sensu_stricto and Bifidobacterium) and a decrease in the abundance of the harmful Helicobacter genus. In summary, PCA could alleviate the TMAO-exacerbated atherosclerosis and inflammation, improve the lipid metabolism, and modulate gut microbiota.

Dietary Achievable Dose of Protocatechuic Acid, a Metabolite of Flavonoids, Inhibits High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice

SCOPE

Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a gut microbiota metabolite of flavonoids, inhibits dietary obesity and increases uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), a critical regulator responsible for adipose thermogenesis; however, these effects are achieved at dietary unachievable (pharmacological) dose. It evaluates whether dietary achievable dose of PCA inhibits adiposity by activating adipose thermogenesis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Six-week-old male C57BL/6J mice are fed a high-fat diet (HFD) alone (control) or supplemented with 0.003% PCA w/w for 16 weeks. PCA consumption does not affect food intake but appreciably reduces body weight gain, improves insulin sensitivity, and attenuates hepatic steatosis. These effects are associated with no significant changes in the abundance of UCP1 in adipose tissues. Instead, PCA consumption increases the abundance and enzymatic activity of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (the first rate-limiting enzyme in fatty acid oxidation) in the livers, inguinal white, and brown adipose tissues. Surprisingly, PCA at physiologically achievable dose does not affect the abundance and enzymatic activity of carnitine acyltransferase-1 expression and the capacity of fatty acid oxidation in 3T3-L1-derived white or brown adipocytes and human hepatoma HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary achievable dose of PCA attenuates HFD-induced adiposity, which is likely achieved by increasing fatty acid oxidation other than activating adipose thermogenesis.

Anthocyanin Effects on Vascular and Endothelial Health: Evidence from Clinical Trials and Role of Gut Microbiota Metabolites

Hypertension and derived cardiovascular disease (CVD) are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Increased oxidative stress and inflammatory state are involved in different alterations in endothelial functions that contribute to the onset of CVD. Polyphenols, and in particular anthocyanins, have aroused great interest for their antioxidant effects and their cardioprotective role. However, anthocyanins are rarely detected in blood serum because they are primarily metabolized by the gut microbiota. This review presents studies published to date that report the main results from clinical studies on the cardioprotective effects of anthocyanins and the role of the gut microbiota in the metabolism and bioavailability of anthocyanins and their influence on the composition of the microbiota. Even if it seems that anthocyanins have a significant effect on vascular health, more studies are required to better clarify which molecules and doses show vascular benefits without forgetting the crucial role of the microbiota.

Effects of anthocyanin supplementation on blood lipid levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Dyslipidemia is a major cardiovascular disease risk factor associated with increased mortality. The intake of plant food-derived bioactive compounds is associated with beneficial cardiovascular effects, including decreased blood lipid levels and cardiovascular risk. We aimed to evaluate the effects of anthocyanin intake on blood lipid levels by analyzing relevant randomized controlled trials.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Embase databases using the "Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes" format to determine whether anthocyanin supplementation intervention affected blood lipid levels compared with placebo supplementation in human participants.

Results

A total of 41 studies with 2,788 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Anthocyanin supplementation significantly reduced triglyceride [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.18, -0.01) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (SMD = -0.16; 95% CI -0.26, -0.07) levels and increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (SMD = 0.42; 95% CI 0.20, 0.65).

Discussion

Anthocyanin supplementation significantly improved blood lipid component levels in the included studies. Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to further investigate the effects of anthocyanin intake on blood lipid levels and the safety of anthocyanin supplementation for treating dyslipidemia.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021257087, identifier: CRD42021257087.

The interplay between microbial metabolites and macrophages in cardiovascular diseases: A comprehensive review

The gut microbiome has emerged as a crucial player in developing and progressing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Recent studies have highlighted the role of microbial metabolites in modulating immune cell function and their impact on CVD. Macrophages, which have a significant function in the pathogenesis of CVD, are very vulnerable to the effects of microbial metabolites. Microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), have been linked to atherosclerosis and the regulation of immune functions. Butyrate has been demonstrated to reduce monocyte migration and inhibit monocyte attachment to injured endothelial cells, potentially contributing to the attenuation of the inflammatory response and the progression of atherosclerosis. On the other hand, TMAO, another compound generated by gut bacteria, has been linked to atherosclerosis due to its impact on lipid metabolism and the accumulation of cholesterol in macrophages. Indole-3-propionic acid, a tryptophan metabolite produced solely by microbes, has been found to promote the development of atherosclerosis by stimulating macrophage reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and raising the expression of ABCA1. This review comprehensively discusses how various microbiota-produced metabolites affect macrophage polarization, inflammation, and foam cell formation in CVD. We also highlight the mechanisms underlying these effects and the potential therapeutic applications of targeting microbial metabolites in treating CVD.

Protocatechuic acid boosts continual efferocytosis in macrophages by derepressing KLF4 to transcriptionally activate MerTK

Macrophages clear apoptotic cells through a process called continual efferocytosis. We found that protocatechuic acid (PCA), a polyphenolic compound abundant in fruits and vegetables, increased the continual efferocytic capacity of macrophages and inhibited the progression of advanced atherosclerosis. PCA reduced the intracellular amounts of microRNA-10b (miR-10b) by promoting its secretion in extracellular vesicles, which led to an increase in the abundance of the miR-10b target Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). In turn, KLF4 transcriptionally induced the gene encoding Mer proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MerTK), an efferocytic receptor for the recognition of apoptotic cells, resulting in increased continual efferocytic capacity. However, in naive macrophages, the PCA-induced secretion of miR-10b did not affect KLF4 and MerTK protein abundance or efferocytic capacity. In mice, oral administration of PCA increased continual efferocytosis in macrophages residing in the peritoneal cavities, thymi, and advanced atherosclerotic plaques through the miR-10b-KLF4-MerTK pathway. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of miR-10b with antagomiR-10b also increased the efferocytic capacity of efferocytic but not naive macrophages in vitro and in vivo. Together, these data describe a pathway that promotes continual efferocytosis in macrophages through miR-10b secretion and a KLF4-dependent increase in MerTK abundance, which can be activated by dietary PCA and which has implications for understanding the regulation of continual efferocytosis in macrophages.

Resveratrol intervention attenuates chylomicron secretion via repressing intestinal FXR-induced expression of scavenger receptor SR-B1

Two common features of dietary polyphenols have hampered our mechanistic understanding of their beneficial effects for decades: targeting multiple organs and extremely low bioavailability. We show here that resveratrol intervention (REV-I) in high-fat diet (HFD)-challenged male mice inhibits chylomicron secretion, associated with reduced expression of jejunal but not hepatic scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SR-B1). Intestinal mucosa-specific SR-B1-/- mice on HFD-challenge exhibit improved lipid homeostasis but show virtually no further response to REV-I. SR-B1 expression in Caco-2 cells cannot be repressed by pure resveratrol compound while fecal-microbiota transplantation from mice on REV-I suppresses jejunal SR-B1 in recipient mice. REV-I reduces fecal levels of bile acids and activity of fecal bile-salt hydrolase. In Caco-2 cells, chenodeoxycholic acid treatment stimulates both FXR and SR-B1. We conclude that gut microbiome is the primary target of REV-I, and REV-I improves lipid homeostasis at least partially via attenuating FXR-stimulated gut SR-B1 elevation.

Sulforaphane Inhibits Foam Cell Formation and Atherosclerosis via Mechanisms Involving the Modulation of Macrophage Cholesterol Transport and the Related Phenotype

Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate, is one of the major dietary phytochemicals found in cruciferous vegetables. Many studies suggest that SFN can protect against cancer and cardiometabolic diseases. Despite the proposed systemic and local vascular protective mechanisms, SFN's potential to inhibit atherogenesis by targeting macrophages remains unknown. In this study, in high fat diet fed ApoE-deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice, oral SFN treatment improved dyslipidemia and inhibited atherosclerotic plaque formation and the unstable phenotype, as demonstrated by reductions in the lesion areas in both the aortic sinus and whole aorta, percentages of necrotic cores, vascular macrophage infiltration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In THP-1-derived macrophages, preadministration SFN alleviated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial injury. Moreover, a functional study revealed that peritoneal macrophages isolated from SFN-treated mice exhibited attenuated cholesterol influx and enhanced apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I)- and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-mediated cholesterol efflux. Mechanistic analysis revealed that SFN supplementation induced both intralesional and intraperitoneal macrophage phenotypic switching toward high expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and ATP-binding cassette subfamily A/G member 1 (ABCA1/G1) and low expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), which was further validated by the aortic protein expression. These results suggest that the regulation of macrophages' cholesterol transport and accumulation may be mainly responsible for SFN's potential atheroprotective properties, and the regulatory mechanisms might involve upregulating ABCA1/G1 and downregulating CD36 via the modulation of PPARγ and Nrf2.

Exosomes in Cardiovascular Disease: From Mechanism to Therapeutic Target

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. In recent decades, clinical research has made significant advances, resulting in improved survival and recovery rates for patients with CVD. Despite this progress, there is substantial residual CVD risk and an unmet need for better treatment. The complex and multifaceted pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of CVD pose a challenge for researchers seeking effective therapeutic interventions. Consequently, exosomes have emerged as a new focus for CVD research because their role as intercellular communicators gives them the potential to act as noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic nanocarriers. In the heart and vasculature, cell types such as cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle, cardiac fibroblasts, inflammatory cells, and resident stem cells are involved in cardiac homeostasis via the release of exosomes. Exosomes encapsulate cell-type specific miRNAs, and this miRNA content fluctuates in response to the pathophysiological setting of the heart, indicating that the pathways affected by these differentially expressed miRNAs may be targets for new treatments. This review discusses a number of miRNAs and the evidence that supports their clinical relevance in CVD. The latest technologies in applying exosomal vesicles as cargo delivery vehicles for gene therapy, tissue regeneration, and cell repair are described.

Role of a Mixture of Polyphenol Compounds Released after Blueberry Fermentation in Chemoprevention of Mammary Carcinoma: In Vivo Involvement of miR-145

Epigenetic mechanisms such as microRNA (miRNA) deregulation seem to exert a central role in breast cancer initiation and progression. Therefore, targeting epigenetics deregulation may be an effective strategy for preventing and halting carcinogenesis. Studies have revealed the significant role of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds derived from fermented blueberry fruits in cancer chemoprevention by modulation of cancer stem cell development through the epigenetic mechanism and regulation of cellular signaling pathways. In this study, we first investigated the phytochemical changes during the blueberry fermentation process. Fermentation favored the release of oligomers and bioactive compounds such as protocatechuic acid (PCA), gallic acid, and catechol. Next, we investigated the chemopreventive potentials of a polyphenolic mixture containing PCA, gallic acid, and catechin found in fermented blueberry juice in a breast cancer model by measuring miRNA expression and the signaling pathways involved in breast cancer stemness and invasion. To this end, 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were treated with different doses of the polyphenolic mixture for 24 h. Additionally, female Balb/c mice were fed with this mixture for five weeks; two weeks before and three weeks after receiving 4T1 cells. Mammosphere formation was assayed in both cell lines and the single-cell suspension obtained from the tumor. Lung metastases were counted by isolating 6-thioguanine-resistant cells present in the lungs. In addition, we conducted RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis to validate the expression of targeted miRNAs and proteins, respectively. We found a significant reduction in mammosphere formation in both cell lines treated with the mixture and in tumoral primary cells isolated from mice treated with the polyphenolic compound. The number of colony-forming units of 4T1 cells in the lungs was significantly lower in the treatment group compared to the control group. miR-145 expression significantly increased in the tumor samples of mice treated with the polyphenolic mixture compared to the control group. Furthermore, a significant increase in FOXO1 levels was noted in both cell lines treated with the mixture. Overall, our results show that phenolic compounds found in fermented blueberry delay the formation of tumor-initiating cells in vitro and in vivo and reduce the spread of metastatic cells. The protective mechanisms seem to be related, at least partly, to the epigenetic modulation of mir-145 and its signaling pathways.

Mechanistic insights into dietary (poly)phenols and vascular dysfunction-related diseases using multi-omics and integrative approaches: Machine learning as a next challenge in nutrition research

Dietary (poly)phenols have been extensively studied for their vasculoprotective effects and consequently their role in preventing or delaying onsets of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Even though early studies have ascribed the vasculoprotective properties of (poly)phenols primarily on their putative free radical scavenging properties, recent data indicate that in biological systems, (poly)phenols act primarily through genomic and epigenomic mechanisms. The molecular mechanisms underlying their health properties are still not well identified, mainly due to the use of physiologically non-relevant conditions (native molecules or extracts at high concentrations, rather than circulating metabolites), but also due to the use of targeted genomic approaches aiming to evaluate the effect only on few specific genes, thus preventing to decipher detailed molecular mechanisms involved. The use of state-of-the-art untargeted analytical methods represents a significant breakthrough in nutrigenomics, as these methods enable detailed insights into the effects at each specific omics level. Moreover, the implementation of multi-omics approaches allows integration of different levels of regulation of cellular functions, to obtain a comprehensive picture of the molecular mechanisms of action of (poly)phenols. In combination with bioinformatics and the methods of machine learning, multi-omics has potential to make a huge contribution to the nutrition science. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the use of the omics, multi-omics, and integrative approaches in studying the vasculoprotective properties of dietary (poly)phenols and address the potentials for use of the machine learning in nutrigenomics.

Protective Effect of Anthocyanins against Neurodegenerative Diseases through the Microbial-Intestinal-Brain Axis: A Critical Review

With the increase in human mean age, the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) also rises. This negatively affects mental and physiological health. In recent years, evidence has revealed that anthocyanins could regulate the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS) through the microbiome-gut-brain axis, which provides a new perspective for treating NDs. In this review, the protective effects and mechanisms of anthocyanins against NDs are summarized, especially the interaction between anthocyanins and the intestinal microbiota, and the microbial-intestinal-brain axis system is comprehensively discussed. Moreover, anthocyanins achieve the therapeutic purpose of NDs by regulating intestinal microflora and certain metabolites (protocateic acid, vanillic acid, etc.). In particular, the inhibitory effect of tryptophan metabolism on some neurotransmitters and the induction of blood-brain barrier permeability by butyrate production has a preventive effect on NDs. Overall, it is suggested that microbial-intestinal-brain axis may be a novel mechanism for the protective effect of anthocyanins against NDs.

Polyphenolic compounds from rapeseeds (Brassica napus L.): The major types, biofunctional roles, bioavailability, and the influences of rapeseed oil processing technologies on the content

The rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) are the important oil bearing material worldwide, which contain wide variety of bioactive components with polyphenolic compounds considered the most typical. The rapeseed polyphenols encompass different structural variants, and have been considered to have many bioactive functions, which are beneficial for the human health. Whereas, the rapeseed oil processing technologies affect their content and the biofunctional activities. The present review of the literature highlighted the major types of the rapeseed polyphenols, and summarized their biofunctional roles. The influences of rapeseed oil processing technologies on these polyphenols were also elucidated. Furthermore, the directions of the future studies for producing nutritional rapeseed oils preserved higher level of polyphenols were prospected. The rapeseed polyphenols are divided into the phenolic acids and polyphenolic tannins, both of which contained different subtypes. They are reported to have multiple biofunctional roles, thus showing outstanding health improvement effects. The rapeseed oil processing technologies have significant effects on both of the polyphenol content and activity. Some novel processing technologies, such as aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE), subcritical or supercritical extraction showed advantages for producing rapeseed oil with higher level of polyphenols. The oil refining process involved heat or strong acid and alkali conditions affected their stability and activity, leading to the loss of polyphenols of the final products. Future efforts are encouraged to provide more clinic evidence for the practical applications of the rapeseed polyphenols, as well as optimizing the processing technologies for the green manufacturing of rapeseed oils.

Natural products against inflammation and atherosclerosis: Targeting on gut microbiota

The gut microbiota (GM) has become recognized as a crucial element in preserving human fitness and influencing disease consequences. Commensal and pathogenic gut microorganisms are correlated with pathological progress in atherosclerosis (AS). GM may thus be a promising therapeutic target for AS. Natural products with cardioprotective qualities might improve the inflammation of AS by modulating the GM ecosystem, opening new avenues for researches and therapies. However, it is unclear what components of natural products are useful and what the actual mechanisms are. In this review, we have summarized the natural products relieving inflammation of AS by regulating the GM balance and active metabolites produced by GM.

Synergic interactions between berry polyphenols and gut microbiota in cardiovascular diseases

Now a days, scientific community has been taking initiatives to decrease burden of metabolic disorders including diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and many others. Many nutraceuticals and functional food have a crucial function in preventing and decreasing burden of chronic diseases. Main purpose of the study was to relate association between mechanism of gut microbiota effecting cardiovascular diseases, moreover, to find out advantageous effects of berry polyphenols on gut microbiota and cardiovascular diseases. To summarize, we explore literature for beneficial effects of berry polyphenols by using multiple search engines including Google Scholar, Science Direct and PubMed. Original research article, review articles, experimental trials (human and animal studies) and abstract were also included in the current study based on relevancy to the characteristics of berries and their potential benefit on human health. This detailed review revealed that all classes of berries and their metabolites possess a definite impact on human health by preventing onset of chronic diseases by its anti-inflammatory property, thus, consider as one of the beneficial natural compounds that can be consumed on daily basis to prevent various disorders. There is also a positive association between berry polyphenols and modulation of gut microbiota and their metabolites, furthermore, showed a relationship between gut microbiome and incidence of cardiovascular disease.

Neuroinflammation: The Role of Anthocyanins as Neuroprotectants

Neuroinflammation is a trigger for several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Exposure to noxious external stimuli induces homeostatic disturbances resulting in morphological changes in microglia, their activation, and elaboration of pro-inflammatory mediators. This leads to neuroinflammation with the progressive loss of neurons. Nutraceuticals such as anthocyanins are a class of brightly colored bioactive compounds present in fruits and vegetables with purported health benefits. They interfere with the activation of several signaling cascades that have a prominent role in preventing neuroinflammation. More importantly, anthocyanins can cross the blood-brain barrier and are safe. Hence, the current review focuses on the bioavailability of anthocyanins, clinical and in vitro evidence on their role in impeding the activation of transcription factors, modulating the immune milieu within the central nervous system, preventing the activation of microglia, and averting neuroinflammation.

Gut Microbially Produced Indole-3-Propionic Acid Inhibits Atherosclerosis by Promoting Reverse Cholesterol Transport and Its Deficiency Is Causally Related to Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence has shown that disorders in the gut microbiota and derived metabolites affect the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, which and how specific gut microbial metabolites contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis and the clinical relevance of their alterations remain unclear.

METHODS

We performed integrated microbiome-metabolome analysis of 30 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls to identify CAD-associated microbial metabolites, which were then assessed in an independent population of patients with ASCVD and controls (n=256). We further investigate the effect of CAD-associated microbial metabolites on atherosclerosis and the mechanisms of the action.

RESULTS

Indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), a solely microbially derived tryptophan metabolite, was the most downregulated metabolite in patients with CAD. Circulating IPA was then shown in an independent population to be associated with risk of prevalent ASCVD and correlated with the ASCVD severity. Dietary IPA supplementation alleviates atherosclerotic plaque development in ApoE^-/- mice. In murine- and human-derived macrophages, administration of IPA promoted cholesterol efflux from macrophages to ApoA-I through an undescribed miR-142-5p/ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette transporter A1) signaling pathway. Further in vivo studies demonstrated that IPA facilitates macrophage reverse cholesterol transport, correlating with the regulation of miR-142-5p/ABCA1 pathway, whereas reduced IPA production contributed to the aberrant overexpression of miR-142-5p in macrophages and accelerated the progression of atherosclerosis. Moreover, the miR-142-5p/ABCA1/reverse cholesterol transport axis in macrophages were dysregulated in patients with CAD, and correlated with the changes in circulating IPA levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identify a previously unknown link between specific gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolite and ASCVD. The microbial metabolite IPA/miR-142-5p/ABCA1 pathway may represent a promising therapeutic target for ASCVD.

Potential Therapeutic Agents That Target ATP Binding Cassette A1 (ABCA1) Gene Expression

The cholesterol efflux protein ATP binding cassette protein A1 (ABCA) and apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1) are key constituents in the process of reverse-cholesterol transport (RCT), whereby excess cholesterol in the periphery is transported to the liver where it can be converted primarily to bile acids for either use in digestion or excreted. Due to their essential roles in RCT, numerous studies have been conducted in cells, mice, and humans to more thoroughly understand the pathways that regulate their expression and activity with the goal of developing therapeutics that enhance RCT to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Many of the drugs and natural compounds examined target several transcription factors critical for ABCA1 expression in both macrophages and the liver. Likewise, several miRNAs target not only ABCA1 but also the same transcription factors that are critical for its high expression. However, after years of research and many preclinical and clinical trials, only a few leads have proven beneficial in this regard. In this review we discuss the various transcription factors that serve as drug targets for ABCA1 and provide an update on some important leads.

Cyanidin-3-O-β-Glucoside Attenuates Platelet Chemokines and Their Receptors in Atherosclerotic Inflammation of ApoE-/- Mice

Platelet chemokines play well-established roles in the atherosclerotic inflammation. Cyanidin-3-O-β-glucoside (Cy-3-g) is one of the main bioactive compounds in anthocyanins, but its effects on chemokines during atherosclerosis have not been determined yet. In the present study, ApoE^-/- mice were fed on the chow diet, high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD-supplemented Cy-3-g at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg diet. After 16 weeks, Cy-3-g significantly alleviated the atherosclerotic lesion and inhibited platelet aggregation and activation. Moreover, Cy-3-g significantly reduced inflammatory chemokines CXCL4, CXCL7, CCL5, CXCL5, CXCL12, and CCL2 in plasma and downregulated CXCR4, CXCR7, and CCR5 on platelets and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Besides, Cy-3-g decreased the mRNA of TNFα, IFNγ, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, CD68, MMP7, CCL5, CXCR4, and CCR5 in the aorta of mice. Therefore, it suggests that Cy-3-g plays important preventive roles in the process of atherosclerosis via attenuating chemokines and receptors in ApoE^-/- mice.

Gemini Curcumin Suppresses Gastric Cancer AGS Cell Proliferation Through Modulation of lncRNA CCAT2 and c-Myc Genes

Objectives

Gemini surfactant nanocurcumin (Gemini-Cur) is a novel formulation of Curcumin (Cur) with dramatic suppressive effects on cancer cells. Here, we investigated the cancer effects of Gemini-Cur in a human gastric adenocarcinoma cell-line (AGS) through the evaluation of the expression of long non-coding RNAs colon cancer-associated transcript-2 (CCAT2) and its downstream c-Myc as known oncogenic modulators of tumorigenesis.

Materials and Methods

The AGS cells were treated with Gemini-Cur and pure Cur in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The toxicity of Gemini-Cur was studied using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and scratch tests. Furthermore, real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting techniques were employed to evaluate the expression of genes.

Results

Gemini-Cur significantly affected the viability of AGS cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner with inhibitory concentration 50 values of 59.32, 40.88, and 19.63 µM during 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. Our findings showed that Gemini-Cur effectively decreased the expression levels of lnc-CCAT2 and c-Myc genes. Western blotting analysis also confirmed the down-regulation of c-Myc in treated samples compared to controls.

Conclusion

Gemini-Cur attenuates the proliferation of AGS cells partly through modulation of the lncCCAT2-related pathway.

Antioxidative Effects of Standardized Aronia melanocarpa Extract on Reproductive and Metabolic Disturbances in a Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) represents the most common endocrinopathy among childbearing-age women, with oxidative stress (OS) underlying its etiopathogenesis. Metformin (MET) represents a frequently used agent in PCOS. However, weak results encourage alternative treatments. We aimed to investigate isolated and synergistic effects of Standardized Aronia melanocarpa extract (SEA) and MET for alleviating reproductive and metabolic PCOS abnormalities. PCOS induction was followed by 28-day treatment with MET, SAE, or MET + SEA. Bodyweight (BW), cyclicity, histological, and ultrasonographical ovarian analyses were performed. Hormonal, glycemic, and lipid profiles were accessed, as well as systemic and ovarian oxidative status; BW, cyclicity, ovarian histomorphology, ovarian volume, testosterone and progesterone levels, as well as LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels were aggravated after PCOS-induction and improved after MET, SEA, and MET + SEA treatment. MET + SEA had the greatest impact on glycoregulation. Alterations in OS parameters (TBARS, O₂⁻, H₂O₂, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione) could be responsible for observed differences; (4) Conclusions: Our findings confirmed that SAE alone or along with MET was capable of ameliorating reproductive and metabolic disturbances in the PCOS rat model, with the restoration of OS parameters. SAE alone did not alter the protective effects of MET in PCOS.

Effects of gut microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles on obesity and diabetes and their potential modulation through diet

Obesity and diabetes incidence rates are increasing dramatically, reaching pandemic proportions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to unravel the mechanisms underlying their pathophysiology. Of particular interest is the close interconnection between gut microbiota dysbiosis and obesity and diabetes progression. Hence, microbiota manipulation through diet has been postulated as a promising therapeutic target. In this regard, secretion of gut microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles is gaining special attention, standing out as key factors that could mediate gut microbiota-host communication. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from gut microbiota and probiotic bacteria allow to encapsulate a wide range of bioactive molecules (such as/or including proteins and nucleic acids) that could travel short and long distances to modulate important biological functions with the overall impact on the host health. EV-derived from specific bacteria induce differential physiological responses. For example, a high-fat diet-induced increase of the proteobacterium Pseudomonas panacis-derived EV is closely associated with the progression of metabolic dysfunction in mice. In contrast, Akkermansia muciniphila EV are linked with the alleviation of high-fat diet-induced obesity and diabetes in mice. Here, we review the newest pieces of evidence concerning the potential role of gut microbiota and probiotic-derived EV on obesity and diabetes onset, progression, and management, through the modulation of inflammation, metabolism, and gut permeability. In addition, we discuss the role of certain dietary patterns on gut microbiota-derived EV profile and the clinical implication that dietary habits could have on metabolic diseases progression through the shaping of gut microbiota-derived EV.

Modulatory Effects of Huoxiang Zhengqi Oral Liquid on Gut Microbiome Homeostasis Based on Healthy Adults and Antibiotic-Induced Gut Microbial Dysbiosis Mice Model

Traditional herbal medicine (THM) is used worldwide for its safety and effectiveness against various diseases. Huoxiang Zhengqi (HXZQ) is an extensively used Chinese THM formula targeting gastrointestinal disordered gastroenteritis via regulating the intestinal microbiome/immuno-microenvironment. However, the specific mechanisms remain largely unexplored, besides as a lifestyle drug, its safety on the gut microbiome homeostasis has never been investigated. In this study, the effects of HXZQ on the gut microbiome of healthy adults were investigated for the first time, and the antibiotic-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis mice model was applied for verification. Based on healthy adults, our results revealed that HXZQ exhibited mild and positive impacts on the bacterial diversity and the composition of the gut microbiome in a healthy state. As for an unhealthy state of the gut microbiome (with low bacterial diversity and deficient compositions), HXZQ significantly restored the bacterial diversity and recovered the abundance of Bacteroidetes. In the antibiotic-induced mice model, HXZQ distinctly revived the deficient gut microbial compositions impaired by antibiotics. At the genus level, the abundances that responded most strongly and positively to HXZQ were Bifidobacterium in healthy adults and Muribaculaceae, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia in mice. In contrast, the abundance of Blautia in healthy adults, Enterococcus, and Klebsiella in mice showed inversely associated with HXZQ administration. At last, HXZQ might exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect by regulating the concentration of interleukin-6 in plasma while causing no significant changes in the colon tissue structure in mice. In conclusion, our results elucidate that the safety of HXZQ in daily use further reveals the modulatory effects of HXZQ on gut microbial community structure. These results will provide new insights into the interaction of THM and gut microbiome homeostasis and clues about the safe use of THM as a lifestyle drug for its further development.

The Interplay Between Gut Microbiota and miRNAs in Cardiovascular Diseases

The human microbiota contains microorganisms found on the skin, mucosal surfaces and in other tissues. The major component, the gut microbiota, can be influenced by diet, genetics, and environmental factors. Any change in its composition results in pathophysiological changes that can further influence the evolution of different conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The microbiome is a complex ecosystem and can be considered the metagenome of the microbiota. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are speculated to interact with the intestinal microbiota for modulating gene expressions of the host. miRNAs represent a category of small non-coding RNAs, consisting of approximately 22 nucleotides, which can regulate gene expression at post-transcriptional level, by influencing the degradation of mRNA and modifying protein amounts. miRNAs display a multitude of roles, being able to influence the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases. Circulating miRNAs are stable against degradation, due to their enclosure into extracellular vesicles (EVs). This review aims to assess the current knowledge of the possible interactions between gut microbiota, miRNAs, and CVDs. As more scientific research is conducted, it can be speculated that personalized patient care in the future may include the management of gut microbiota composition and the targeted treatment against certain expression of miRNAs.

Nanotechnology as a Tool to Mitigate the Effects of Intestinal Microbiota on Metabolization of Anthocyanins

Anthocyanins are an important group of phenolic compounds responsible for pigmentation in several plants. For humans, a regular intake is associated with a reduced risk of several diseases. However, molecular instability reduces the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds. Anthocyanins are degraded by external factors such as the presence of light, oxygen, temperature, and changes in pH ranges. In addition, the digestion process contributes to chemical degradation, mainly through the action of intestinal microbiota. The intestinal microbiota has a fundamental role in the biotransformation and metabolization of several dietary compounds, thus modifying the chemical structure, including anthocyanins. This biotransformation leads to low absorption of intact anthocyanins, and consequently, low bioavailability of these antioxidant compounds. Several studies have been conducted to seek alternatives to improve stability and protect against intestinal microbiota degradation. This comprehensive review aims to discuss the existing knowledge about the structure of anthocyanins while discussing human absorption, distribution, metabolism, and bioavailability after the oral consumption of anthocyanins. This review will highlight the use of nanotechnology systems to overcome anthocyanin biotransformation by the intestinal microbiota, pointing out the safety and effectiveness of nanostructures to maintain molecular stability.

Enhancement of the Colorectal Chemopreventive and Immunization Potential of Northern Thai Purple Rice Anthocyanin Using the Biotransformation by β-Glucosidase-Producing Lactobacillus

This study aimed to study the biotransformation of indigenous northern Thai purple rice using β-glucosidase-producing Lactobacillus (BGPL) to increase the content of bioactive anthocyanin for colorectal chemoprevention and immunization. BGPL, namely, Lactobacillus FR 332, was first isolated from Thai fermented foods. Indigenous northern Thai purple rice, namely, Khao’ Gam Leum-Phua (KGLP), was selected to study bioactive anthocyanin using biotransformation by L. plantarum FR332 according to the highest amounts of cyanidin-3-glucoside. The determination of anthocyanin quantities revealed that the highest cyanidin was detected after 12 h of biotransformation, corresponding to the highest β-glucosidase activity of L. plantarum FR332 and a decrease in cyanidin-3-glucoside. The anthocyanin extract, after 12 h of biotransformation, exhibited the most potent in vitro antioxidative activity. Additionally, it showed potent anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nitric oxide, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) production in interferon-γ-stimulated colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) cells without exerting cytotoxicity. Moreover, it also showed a potent inhibitory effect on proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) secretion and an induction effect on anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 secretion. These documents highlight the potential to be used of the anthocyanin extract after 12 h of biotransformation by L. plantarum FR332 as a natural active pharmaceutical ingredient (NAPI) for colorectal chemoprevention and immunization.