Total Polyphenol Intake Estimated by a Modified Folin–Ciocalteu Assay of Urine

Biological and Physiological Responses of Root-knot Disease Development on Five Cucurbits Exposed to Different Concentrations of Sulfur Dioxide

A study was undertaken in order to investigate the effects of SO₂ (25, 50, and 75 ppb) exposure for five hours on alternate days for three months on the susceptibility of five cucurbits to the infection of Meloidogyne incognita, causing root-knot disease. Four-week-old cucurbit plants were inoculated with 2000 J₂ of M. incognita. SO₂ levels of 50 and 75 ppb caused noticeable injury to foliage and reduced the plant growth parameters and biomass production of cucurbits (p ≤ 0.05). Nematode-inoculated plants caused characteristic oval, fleshy and large galls. The galls were formed closely, and as a result they coalesced, giving bead-like impressions especially in pumpkin and sponge gourds. Disease severity became aggravated on plants exposed to SO₂ at 50 or 75 ppb concentrations. The nematode and SO₂ interaction varied with the levels of SO₂ and the response of the plant to M. incognita. SO₂ at 50 or 75 ppb concentrations stimulated the pathogenesis of M. incognita on cucurbit species. The combined effect of 75 ppb SO₂ and M. incognita suppressed plant length by 34% against the sum of decreases observed by M. incognita and SO₂ individually (14-18%). At 50 ppb SO₂, the fecundity of M. incognita was decreased and combined effect of SO₂ and M. incognita was more than the sum of their singular effects. The study has proven that root-knot disease might become aggravated in the regions contaminated with elevated levels of SO₂.

Construction and evaluation of an antioxidant synergistic system containing vitamin C and vitamin E

AIMS

The aim of this study is to develop a liposome that could exert unparalleled antioxidant effects. In the present study, a vitamin C (VC)/vitamin E (VE)-co-loaded multivesicular liposome (VCVE-MVL) was constructed.

METHODS

Vitamins were encapsulated in soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and cholesterol (CHO) by multi-emulsification method. The concentration of VC was determined by Fast Blue method. The concentration of VE was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Vitamin antioxidant capacity in vitro and in vivo was determined using β-carotene bleaching.

RESULTS

VCVE-MVL with particle diameter of 848.55 ± 0.29 nm and SPAN of 0.16 ± 0.11 were obtained. The encapsulation efficiency of VC reached 48.51% (w/w)±0.15. Compared with VC/VE solution, VCVE-MVL had a higher permeation efficiency. In addition, the in vitro and ex-vivo antioxidant tests verified the adequate antioxidant activity of VCVE-MVL.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the antioxidant synergistic system we constructed and demonstrated its potential applications in the cosmetics industry.

Strawberry, Blueberry, and Strawberry-Blueberry Blend Beverages Prevent Hepatic Steatosis in Obese Rats by Modulating Key Genes Involved in Lipid Metabolism

There is an increasing interest in developing natural herb-infused functional beverages with health benefits; therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of strawberry, blueberry, and strawberry-blueberry blend decoction-based functional beverages on obesity-related metabolic alterations in high-fat and high-fructose diet-fed rats. The administration of the three berry-based beverages for eighteen weeks prevented the development of hypertriglyceridemia in obese rats (1.29-1.78-fold) and hepatic triglyceride accumulation (1.38-1.61-fold), preventing the development of hepatic steatosis. Furthermore, all beverages significantly down-regulated Fasn hepatic expression, whereas the strawberry beverage showed the greatest down-regulation of Acaca, involved in fatty acid de novo synthesis. Moreover, the strawberry beverage showed the most significant up-regulation of hepatic Cpt1 and Acadm (fatty acid β-oxidation). In contrast, the blueberry beverage showed the most significant down-regulation of hepatic Fatp5 and Cd36 (fatty acid intracellular transport). Nevertheless, no beneficial effect was observed on biometric measurements, adipose tissue composition, and insulin resistance. On the other hand, several urolithins and their derivatives, and other urinary polyphenol metabolites were identified after the strawberry-based beverages supplementation. In contrast, enterolactone was found significantly increase after the intake of blueberry-based beverages. These results demonstrate that functional beverages elaborated with berry fruits prevent diet-induced hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic steatosis by modulating critical genes involved in fatty acid hepatic metabolism.

Identification and Quantification of Urinary Microbial Phenolic Metabolites by HPLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-HRMS and Their Relationship with Dietary Polyphenols in Adolescents

This study aimed to develop and validate a liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-linear ion trap quadrupole-Orbitrap-high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-HRMS) method to identify and quantify urinary microbial phenolic metabolites (MPM), as well as to explore the relationship between MPM and dietary (poly)phenols in Spanish adolescents. A total of 601 spot urine samples of adolescents aged 12.02 ± 0.41 years were analyzed. The quantitative method was validated for linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, recovery, intra- and inter-day accuracy and precision, as well as postpreparative stability according to the criteria established by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists International. A total of 17 aglycones and 37 phase II MPM were identified and quantified in 601 spot urine samples. Phenolic acids were the most abundant urinary MPM, whereas stilbenes, hydroxytyrosol, and enterodiol were the least abundant. Urinary hydroxycoumarin acids (urolithins) were positively correlated with flavonoid and total (poly)phenol intake. An HPLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-HRMS method was developed and fully validated to quantify MPM. The new method was performed accurately and is suitable for MPM quantification in large epidemiological studies. Urinary lignans and urolithins are proposed as potential biomarkers of grain and nut intake in an adolescent population.

Neurocognitive Effects of Cocoa and Red-Berries Consumption in Healthy Adults

In recent decades, the elderly population has increased at higher rates than any other population group, resulting in an increase in age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative and cognitive impairment. To address this global health problem, it is necessary to search for new dietary strategies that can prevent the main neurocognitive problems associated with the ageing process. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor receptor (NGF-R) and to stablish the possible improvement in cognitive performance by using a battery of neurocognitive tests that included the Verbal Learning Test Spain-Complutense, the Spatial Recall Test 10/36 BRB-N, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale III and IV, the STROOP Task and the Tower of London Test. A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study was performed in 60 healthy volunteers between 50 and 75 years old who consumed a cocoa powder, a red berries mixture or a combination of both for 12 weeks. After the intervention, we observed a reduction in the time needed to start (p = 0.031) and finish (p = 0.018) the neurocognitive test known as the Tower of London in all groups, but the decrease in time to finish the task was more pronounced in the intervention with the combination of cocoa-red berries group. We failed to show any significant difference in BDNF and NGF-R sera levels. However we found a negative correlation between BDNF and the number of movements required to finish the TOL in women (p = 0.044). In conclusion, our study showed an improvement in executive function, without any change in neurotrofin levels, for all intervention arms.

Parameters for discrimination between organic and conventional production: A case study for chicory plants (Cichorium intybus L.)

Organic crop production has become a highly attractive way of production over the world and thus the need for robust analytical techniques for their authentication. The main aim of this study is to identify appropriate biomarkers to discriminate between organic and conventionally grown chicory. Chicory is an appreciated leafy vegetable among producers and consumers, especially due to its undemanding cultivation and content of bioactive substances. Six different fertility management practices (control, two organic, two mineral, and a combination of organic and mineral fertilizers) were used to produce five chicory cultivars in a glasshouse pot experiment. Analysis of bioactive compounds, nitrogen assimilation, multi-elemental profiling and stable isotope ratio determination of carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S) were performed to differentiate between organic and conventional production. In this study, nitrogen isotopes are found to be an excellent way of identifying organically produced chicory of a different variety with the highest δ15N values. Conversely, the same samples had the lowest δ34S values indicating that also stable isotopes of S could be used as a marker for the authentication of organic production.

In-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant assays of chicory plants (Cichorium intybus L.) as influenced by organic and conventional fertilisers

BACKGROUND

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a traditional European crop that is highly appreciated for its contents of bioactive compounds, especially phenolics, which have high antioxidant activities. Among other factors, agricultural practice might affect the contents of these bioactive compounds, which are also important from a nutritional point of view, and affect the shelf-life.

RESULTS

The antioxidant potential (AOP) of chicory plants treated with different fertilisers was investigated in vitro using DPPH radical scavenging and in vivo using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Additionally, total phenolics content (TPC) was evaluated using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, and total flavonoids content (TFC) using the aluminium chloride method. Four different chicory cultivars were included: 'Treviso', 'Verona' and 'Anivip' as red cultivars; and 'Castelfranco' as a red-spotted cultivar. These were grown in pots under controlled glasshouse conditions using organic and/or mineral fertilisers. The combination of organic and mineral fertilisers during red chicory growth resulted in significantly higher in-vitro and in-vivo AOPs compared to the control. For the red-spotted cultivar 'Castelfranco', this combined organic and mineral fertilisation decreased AOPs in vitro and increased AOPs in vivo. Among the cultivars examined, 'Castelfranco' treated with combined organic plus mineral fertilisers showed the highest AOP in vivo, accompanied by the lowest TPC and TFC.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that application of different fertilisers has different impacts on red and red-spotted chicory cultivars in terms of TFC and TPC, which for red-spotted chicory resulted in different AOPs in vitro and in vivo. The in-vitro AOP is well reflected in the in-vivo AOP for the red chicory cultivars, but less so for the red-spotted cultivar 'Castelfranco'. Based on the in-vivo AOPs for these chicory cultivars analysed, the combined organic plus mineral fertiliser treatment is recommended.

Effects of acute intake of grape/pomegranate pomace dietary supplement on glucose metabolism and oxidative stress in adults with abdominal obesity

A controlled acute, cross-over clinical study (NCT02710461) was performed in order to evaluate the effects on glucose metabolism of a grape/pomegranate pomace dietary supplement in subjects with abdominal obesity (aged 40-60, n = 20). A standard 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was administered alone, together with or 10 h after the consumption of 10 g of the dietary supplement, rich in both extractable (0.4 g) and non-extractable (1.4 g) polyphenols. The dietary supplement did not ameliorate glucose or insulin at any sampling time. No improvement in antioxidant capacity was observed in plasma or urine, concordant with no increased urine polyphenol excretion. A tendency towards improved insulin sensitivity was observed when the product was consumed 10 h before glucose solution. These results suggest that a single realistic dose of grape/pomegranate pomace is not able to clearly improve glucose metabolism; chronic intake remains to be evaluated.

Cathepsin B mediated scramblase activation triggers cytotoxicity and cell cycle arrest by andrographolide to overcome cellular resistance in cisplatin resistant human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells

Andrographolide regimen in single or in combination with anticancer drugs is a promising new strategy to reverse chemoresistance in heaptocellular carcinoma. Apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) may regulate a complementary, cooperative or redundant pathway, along with caspase cascades. Despite these findings, mechanisms underlying caspase-dependent and-independent signaling pathways in andrographolide -induced apoptosis in cisplatin-resistant human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2CR) remain unclear. Andrographolide treatment effectively reduced NF-κβ nuclear localization by modulating protein kinase A- protein phosphatase 2 A- Iκβ kinase (PKA/PP2 A/IKK) axis that in turn maintains initiator caspase8 activity. Lysosomal distribution of tBid stimulates cytosolic cathepsin B resulting accumulation of truncated-AIF with induction in scramblase mediated phosphatidylserine exposure in HepG2CR cells. Andrographolide treatment thereby switch on subG1 phase arrest by modulating cellular check points (cyclin A, B, cyclin dependent kinase-1) cueing to the apoptosis event. Collectively, this study suggested antineoplastic potential of andrographolide through PKA/PP2 A/IKK pathway in HepG2CR cells.

Plant phenolics as functional food ingredients

Phenolic compounds have attracted much attention in recent times as their dietary intake has been associated with the prevention of some chronic and degenerative diseases that constitute major causes of death and incapacity in developed countries, such as cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes, some types of cancers or neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Nowadays it is considered that these compounds contribute, at least in part, for the protective effects of fruit and vegetable-rich diets, so that the study of their role in human nutrition has become a central issue in food research. This chapter reviews the current knowledge on the phenolic compounds as food components, namely their occurrence in the diet, bioavailability and metabolism, biological activities and mechanisms of action. Besides, the approaches for their extraction from plant matrices and technological improvements regarding their preparation, stability and bioavailability in order to be used as functional food ingredients are also reviewed, as well as their legal situation regarding the possibility of making "health claims" based on their presence in food and beverages.

Protective role of phenylethanoid glycosides, Torenoside B and Savatiside A, in Alzheimer's disease

The current study assessed the efficacy of two phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), Torenoside B (TB) and Savatiside A (SA), in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The effects of TB and SA compounds were first assessed following amyloid beta (Aβ)_25-35 induction in SH-SY5Y cells at a range of concentrations. Their effects on cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined by performing MTT and dichlorofluorescin diacetate assays, respectively. The concentration of intracellular Ca²⁺ was determined using Fluo-3AM to stain SH-SY5Y cells. SA and TB treatments were also assessed in Aβ_25-35-induced mice. Y-maze and Morris water maze methods were utilized to assess murine learning and memory capability. The pathological changes of murine hippocampi was determined using H&E and Nissl staining. In addition, biochemical parameters associated with intracellular reactive oxygen pathways including Maleic dialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Calnexin were also assessed. TB and SA treatment in Aβ_25-35-induced SH-SY5Y cells resulted in the restoration of cell morphology, an increase of SOD and GSH-Px activity, a decrease in ROS, Ca²⁺ and MDA content, and a decrease in Calnexin expression. Furthermore, SA or TB treatment administered to Aβ_25-35-induced mice improved their spatial/non-spatial learning and memory capabilities. The efficacy of treatment was also supported by a marked change in the morphological structure of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 areas of murine hippocampi, as well as an increase of SOD and GSH-Px activity. Treatment also resulted in a decrease in MDA content, AchE activity and Calnexin expression in murine hippocampal tissue. As potential AD treatment drugs, SA and TB compounds have been demonstrated to alleviate the oxidative stress induced by Aβ_25-35 via the regulation of intracellular calcium homeostasis and Calnexin, preventing AD development.

Acute consumption of Andalusian aged wine and gin decreases the expression of genes related to atherosclerosis in men with high cardiovascular risk: Randomized intervention trial

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. Previous studies have suggested the beneficial effects of moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages on reducing cardiovascular risk (CVR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of acute consumption of Andalusian aged wine (AAW) and gin by analyzing the expression of genes related to the appearance and progression of atherosclerosis in men with high CVR.

METHODS

We performed an open, randomized, controlled, crossover trial including 41 men with high CVR between 55 and 80 years age, who received a single dose of AAW or gin (0.5 g ethanol/kg). The expression of 10 genes related to atherosclerosis was determined by RT-PCR at baseline and 4 h after the intervention.

RESULTS

Gene expression analysis 4 h after consumption of each alcoholic beverage showed a significant decrease in Toll-like receptors 4 and 6 (TLR4, TLR6) and Caspase-1 (p < 0.05 all). Additionally, TLR2, Interleukin-1 receptor, chemokine receptor 3 and inflammasome expression decreased after AAW intake (p < 0.05, all) while only chemokine receptor 5 decreased after gin consumption (p = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

The decrease in the expression of several genes related to the appearance and progression of atherosclerosis was greater after AAW than gin intake, suggesting that the phenolic content of AAW may play a protective role against atherosclerosis.

Potential of Grape Wastes as a Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds

Grapes are widely used in the wine and juice industries, which can lead to massive amounts of waste, mostly grape peels and seeds. The antioxidant capacities, total phenolic and flavonoid contents and phenolic profiles of peels and seeds from 30 grape varieties were systemically assessed. The antioxidant activities of fat-soluble, water-soluble and insoluble-bound fractions of grape peels and seeds were evaluated using ferric-reducing antioxidant power and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays, and their total phenolic contents and total flavonoid contents were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and AlCl₃ colorimetry, respectively. It was found that the antioxidant capacities were diverse among different grape peels and seeds. Moreover, several phenolic compounds were identified and quantified, including gallic acid, cyanidin-3-glucoside, epicatechin, catechin gallate, ferulaic acid, rutin and resveratrol, which could contribute to the antioxidant capacities of these grape peels and seeds. Several grape wastes with strong antioxidant activity could be abundant sources of natural bioactive compounds, and have the potential for development into functional foods, food additives and pharmaceuticals.

Association of plasma and urine viscosity with cardiometabolic risk factors and oxidative status. A pilot study in subjects with abdominal obesity

There is increasing interest in the search for accurate, repeatable and widely applicable clinical biomarkers for the early detection of cardiometabolic alterations and oxidative status. Viscosity is a promising tool in that sense, although most studies have used simple viscosimeters, providing limited information, and have not considered oxidative status. The aim of this study was to assess whether viscosity determinations were associated with cardiometabolic and oxidative status in subjects at a primary stage of cardiometabolic risk. A pilot study (n = 20) was conducted in subjects with abdominal obesity, determining urine and plasma viscosity with a rotational rheometer at different shear rates (10000-1000 s-1 in plasma and 1000-50 s-1 in urine). Simple regression showed that urine viscosity was significantly (p< 0.05) associated with markers of oxidative status, and plasma viscosity with blood glucose. Categorical Principal Component Analysis plots showed that urine viscosity measurements at different shear rates clustered in three groups (low, intermediate and high shear rates) were selectively associated with uric acid, polyphenols and antioxidant capacity respectively. Plasma viscosity did not seem to be a relevant clinical marker in subjects with abdominal obesity. Therefore, urine viscosity could potentially serve as a complimentary marker in the evaluation of oxidative status.

Improvement of physico-chemical properties and phenolic compounds bioavailability by concentrating dietary fiber of peach (Prunus persica) juice by-product

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to concentrate dietary fiber (DF) from peach (Prunus persica) juice by-product (PJBP), to improve its functional properties, and its polyphenols bioavailability. The dietary fiber concentrates (DFCs) were obtained from PJBP using water/ethanol treatments (100:0, 20:80, 50:50, 80:20, and 0:100, v/v) at 1:5 ratio (wet weight/solvent, w/v) for 5 and 20 min at 21 °C.

RESULTS

All treatments concentrated condensed tannins, total and insoluble DF, with the highest content found with 100% H₂ O treatment. The major polyphenols of DFC were 4-O-caffeoylquinic, chlorogenic, and 1,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acids. Water and oil retention capacity and maximum glucose diffusion rate were improved mainly with 100% H₂ O treatment. Healthy rats were fed with a standard diet supplemented with 8% of PJBP, DFC obtained with 100% H₂ O for 5 min, or DFC obtained with 20% EtOH for 5 min. Gastrointestinal digesta weight and viscosity were increased in animals supplemented with 100% H₂ O DFC. Moreover, the urinary excretion of polyphenol metabolites, mainly glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, was increased with this treatment, indicating a greater bioavailability of PJBP polyphenols, which was associated with an increased dietary fiber porosity.

CONCLUSION

Water treatment could be used to potentiate PJBP functional properties and polyphenols bioavailability. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

New Method To Estimate Total Polyphenol Excretion: Comparison of Fast Blue BB versus Folin-Ciocalteu Performance in Urine

Polyphenols are bioactive substances of vegetal origin with a significant impact on human health. The assessment of polyphenol intake and excretion is therefore important. The Folin-Ciocalteu (F-C) method is the reference assay to measure polyphenols in foods as well as their excretion in urine. However, many substances can influence the method, making it necessary to conduct a prior cleanup using solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of the Fast Blue BB reagent (FBBB) as a new tool to measure the excretion of polyphenols in urine. Contrary to F-C, FBBB showed no interference in urine, negating the time-consuming and costly SPE cleanup. In addition, it showed excellent linearity (r² = 0.9997), with a recovery of 96.4% and a precision of 1.86-2.11%. The FBBB method was validated to measure the excretion of polyphenols in spot urine samples from Spanish children, showing a good correlation between polyphenol intake and excretion.

Validating polyphenol intake estimates from a food-frequency questionnaire by using repeated 24-h dietary recalls and a unique method-of-triads approach with 2 biomarkers

Background: The assessment of polyphenol intake in free-living subjects is challenging, mostly because of the difficulty in accurately measuring phenolic content and the wide presence of phenolics in foods.Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate the validity of polyphenol intake estimated from food-frequency questionnaires (FFQs) by using the mean of 6 measurements of a 24-h dietary recall (24-HR) as a reference and to apply a unique method-of-triads approach to assess validity coefficients (VCs) between latent "true" dietary estimates, total urinary polyphenol (TUP) excretion, and a surrogate biomarker (plasma carotenoids).Design: Dietary intake data from 899 adults of the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2; 43% blacks and 67% women) were obtained. Pearson correlation coefficients (r), corrected for attenuation from within-person variation in the recalls, were calculated between 24-HRs and FFQs and between 24-HRs and TUPs. VCs and 95% CIs between true intake and polyphenol intakes from FFQs, 24-HRs, and the biomarkers TUPs and plasma carotenoids were calculated.Results: Mean ± SD polyphenol intakes were 717 ± 646 mg/d from FFQs and 402 ± 345 mg/d from 24-HRs. The total polyphenol intake from 24-HRs was correlated with FFQs in crude (r = 0.51, P < 0.001) and deattenuated (r = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.69) models. In the triad model, the VC between the FFQs and theoretical true intake was 0.46 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.93) and between 24-HRs and true intake was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.38, 1.00).Conclusions: The AHS-2 FFQ is a reasonable indicator of total polyphenol intake in the AHS-2 cohort. Urinary polyphenol excretion is limited by genetic variance, metabolism, and bioavailability and should be used in addition to rather than as a replacement for dietary intake assessment.

The beneficial potential of polyphenol-enriched fraction from Erigerontis Herba on metabolic syndrome

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Erigerontis Herba is a Chinese herb that is traditionally used to treat cardiovascular disease. Recent literatures suggested that it could exert beneficial effects on various cardiovascular metabolic risk factors including hypertension and hyperlipidemia in order to exert its cardio-protective effects.

AIM

Erigerontis Herba contains a variety of flavonoids and polyphenols that are bioactive. The aim of the present study was to investigate the cardio-protective effects of the total polyphenols of Erigerontis Herba (EHP), particularly on the metabolic parameters which could contribute to metabolic syndrome including obesity, hepatic steatosis, hyperlipidemia and hypertension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57Bl/6 metabolic syndrome mice model was used to determine the effects of EHP on metabolic syndrome. High-fat diet-induced metabolic syndrome in C57Bl/6 mice is an animal model which mimics human metabolic syndrome. The model is achieved by high-fat diet feeding to C57Bl/6 mice for 8 weeks. In our study, the mice were divided into 3 groups and fed for 8 weeks with: 1) normal chow (N); 2) high-fat diet (HF); or 3) high-fat diet supplemented with 2% EHP (HF+EHP). Various parameters such as body weight, adipose tissue weight and liver weight were measured. Liver and plasma lipid levels were also determined. In addition, the effect of EHP on vasodilation in Sprague Dawley rats was also determined using ex vivo aortic ring model.

RESULTS

Various types of adipose tissues weights were significantly lowered in HF+EHP vs HF mice. Hepatic lipid levels were also significantly decreased by EHP vs HF. For plasma lipid (including TC and TG), EHP exerted no significant effects on plasma lipid levels. To understand the mechanisms as to how EHP regulated lipid metabolism via liver, various hepatic gene expressions were also measured using real-time PCR. The results showed that EHP regulated the expressions of Cyp7α1, CD36 and PPAR-γ. EHP showed significant vasodilative effects in both intact aortas and endothelium-removed aortas. Further mechanistic studies indicated that EHP dilated aorta endothelium-dependently through nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway, and endothelium-independently through BKca, Kv and Kir channels. In addition to the vasodilative effects, EHP could also inhibit aorta contraction through Ca(2+) channel.

CONCLUSIONS

EHP exerted promising effects on diet-induced obesity and hepatic steatosis in C57Bl/6 mice model. It also exerted significant vasodilative effect ex vivo, suggesting the potential of EHP to be developed as a dietary supplement for metabolic syndrome.

Three week dietary intervention using apricots, pomegranate juice or/and fermented sour sobya and impact on biomarkers of antioxidative activity, oxidative stress and erythrocytic glutathione transferase activity among adults

BACKGROUND

The beneficial effects of the polyphenol (PP) rich fruits and Lactic acid bacteria fermented foods had been reported as cost-effective strategies for health promotion. Randomized controlled trial was designed to test the hypothesis that daily intake of polyphenol rich pomegranate juice (PGJ) or/ and lactic acid bacteria fermented sobya (FS) improved selected biomarkers of relevance to heath status.

METHODS

The design of the human trial consisted of 35 healthy adults, who were distributed to 5 equal groups; The first group served as control and received no supplements; the second group received fresh apricot fruits (200 g); the third (PGJ) (250 g), the fourth a mixture of PGJ (150 g) and FS (140 g) and the fifth group received (FS) (170 g). The supplements were served daily between 5 - 6 pm for 21 days. Blood and urine samples were collected at days zero and 22 of the dietary intervention. The supplements were analyzed chemically for (PP) contents and total antioxidative activities and microbiologically for selected bacteria and yeast counts. The blood samples were assayed for plasma antioxidative activities and for erythrocytic glutathione transferase activity (E-GST). Urine samples were analyzed for the excretions of total PP, antioxidative activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS).

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Two way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted and included the main effects of treatment, time and treatment x time interaction.

RESULTS

Daily intake of (PGJ) for 3 weeks significantly increased the plasma and urinary anti-oxidative activities and reduced the urinary excretion of (TBARS). Daily intake of (FS) for 3 weeks increased only (E-GST) activity. Daily intake of a mixture of PGJ and (FS) was also effective.

CONCLUSIONS

The daily intakes of PGJ and/ or (FS) affected positively selected biomarkers of relevance to health status. These functional foods have potential implication for use as bio-therapeutic foods.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was approved by the research ethical committee of the Ministry of Health & population, Egypt. The trial registration - the unique identifying number. (REC) decision No 12-2013-9, which complied with the Declaration of Helsinki guidelines (2004). The protocol was fully explained to all subjects and written informed consent was obtained before their participation in the trial.

Effect of consuming a grape seed supplement with abundant phenolic compounds on the oxidative status of healthy human volunteers

BACKGROUND

Diverse enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants provide protection against reactive oxygen species in humans and other organisms. The nonenzymatic antioxidants include low molecular mass molecules such as plant-derived phenols.

AIM OF STUDY

This study identified the major phenolic compounds of a grape seed extract by HPLC and analyzed the effect of consumption of biscuits enriched with this extract on the urinary oxidative status of healthy subjects by measurement of urine redox potential.

METHODS

The major phenolic compounds were characterized in a red grape seed extract separated by HPLC with detection by a photodiode array (PDA), fluorescence (FL) and quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS). A nutritional study in a healthy volunteers group was done. Each volunteer ate eight traditional biscuits with no red grape seed extract supplementation. The second day each volunteer ate eight traditional biscuits supplemented with 0.6% (wt/wt) of grape seed extract. An overnight urine sample was obtained for each treatment. The redox potential was measured at 25 °C using a potentiometer in each urine sample.

RESULTS

Epicatechin, catechin, procyanidin dimers B1 to B4, and the procyanidin trimer C2 were the major phenolic components in the extract. Epicatechin gallate and procyanidin dimers B1-3-G and B2-3'-G were the major galloylated flavan-3-ols. The forty-six healthy volunteers each shown a reduction of the urine redox potential after the treatment by traditional biscuits supplemented with the grape seed extract.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple dietary intervention significantly reduced (33%) the urine redox potential, reflecting an overall increase in antioxidant status. Incorporation of plant-derived phenols in the diet may increase anti-oxidative status.

Enzyme-assisted extraction enhancing the phenolic release from cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) outer leaves

Phenolic compounds are highly present in byproducts from the cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) harvest and are thus a valuable source for valorization toward phenolic-rich extracts. In this study, we aimed to optimize and characterize the release of individual phenolic compounds from outer leaves of cauliflower, using two commercially available polysaccharide-degrading enzymes, Viscozyme L and Rapidase. As major results, the optimal conditions for the enzyme treatment were: enzyme/substrate ratio of 0.2% for Viscozyme L and 0.5% for Rapidase, temperature 35 °C, and pH 4.0. Using a UPLC-HD-TOF-MS setup, the main phenolic compounds in the extracts were identified as kaempferol glycosides and their combinations with different hydroxycinnamic acids. The most abundant components were kaempferol-3-feruloyldiglucoside and kaempferol-3-glucoside (respectively, 37.8 and 58.4 mg rutin equiv/100 g dry weight). Incubation of the cauliflower outer leaves with the enzyme mixtures resulted in a significantly higher extraction yield of kaempferol-glucosides as compared to the control treatment.

Effects of supplemental levels of bazhen on growth performances, serum traits, immunity, meat quality and antioxidant activity of taiwan country chickens

One hundred and sixty Taiwan country chickens (d-old chicks) were randomly assigned into four groups with four replicates and equal sex. Basal diets were supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1 and 2% of Bazhen powder, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine complex. The study was conducted for 14 wks. Experimental results indicated that Bazhen supplement did not influence feed intake, body weight gain and feed:gain ratio. Compared with control group, the percentage of serum HDL (high-density lipoprotein) linearly increased (p<0.03) and that of VLDL+LDL (very low-density+low-density lipoprotein) linearly decreased (p<0.03) in Bazhen supplemented groups, that 2% Bazhen was significantly different with control group (p<0.05). Chickens fed diets containing 2% Bazhen displayed reduced (p<0.05) serum GOT (glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase) levels. The IgG, γ-globulin levels and PHA (phytohemagglutinin) skin challenge results in 1% Bazhan supplemented group were higher (p<0.05) than in the control group, the SRBC (sheep red blood cell) and ND (newcastle disease) titers in Bazhen supplemented groups were linear higher (p<0.05) than in the control group. The liver catalase activity and the capacity of scavenging DPPH (α-α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl) radical were linearly increased (p<0.03) in Bazhen supplemented groups, and the 1 and 2% groups were different from the control group (p<0.05). Liver TBARS (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances) levels in all Bazhen supplemented groups and total glutathione level in the 2% group were reduced (p<0.05) compared to the control group and displayed a linear response (p<0.05). The TBA (thiobarbituric acid) and pH value of the breast muscle after 24 h post-mortem in the Bazhen supplemented groups was linear lower (p<0.05) than in the control group. Results from this study demonstrated that Bazhen supplement in chicken had several beneficial effects, including increased SRBC and ND titers, HDL and IgG, γ-globulin levels, PHA skin challenge result, decreased VLDL+LDL and GOT levels, and displayed antioxidation effects in serum and carcass meat parameters.

A Methanol Extract of Adansonia digitata L. Leaves Inhibits Pro-Inflammatory iNOS Possibly via the Inhibition of NF-κB Activation

This study examined the total polyphenol content of eight wild edible plants from Ethiopia and their effect on NO production in Raw264.7 cells. Owing to its relatively high polyphenol concentration and inhibition of NO production, the methanol extract of Adansonia digitata L. leaf (MEAD) was subjected to detailed evaluation of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Antioxidant effects were assessed by measuring free-radical-scavenging activity using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and oxygen-radical-absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays, while anti-inflammatory effects were assessed by measuring inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. In the ORAC assay, MEAD was 10.2 times more potent than vitamin C at eliminating peroxyl radicals. In DPPH assay, MEAD also showed a strong ROS scavenging effect. MEAD significantly inhibited iNOS activity (IC50=28.6 μg/ml) of LPS-stimulated Raw264.7 cells. We also investigated the relationship between iNOS expression and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. MEAD inhibited IκBα degradation and NF-κB translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells without significant cytotoxic effects, as confirmed by MTT assay. These results suggest that MEAD inhibits anti-inflammatory iNOS expression, which might be related to the elimination of peroxyl radicals and thus the inhibition of IκBα-mediated NF-κB signal transduction.

Polyphenols excreted in urine as biomarkers of total polyphenol intake

BACKGROUND

Nutritional biomarkers have several advantages in acquiring data for epidemiological and clinical studies over traditional dietary assessment tools, such as food frequency questionnaires. While food frequency questionnaires constitute a subjective methodology, biomarkers can provide a less biased and more accurate measure of specific nutritional intake. A precise estimation of polyphenol consumption requires blood or urine sample biomarkers, although their association is usually highly complex.

RESULTS

This article reviews recent research on urinary polyphenols as potential biomarkers of polyphenol intake, focusing on clinical and epidemiological studies. We also report a potentially useful methodology to assess total polyphenols in urine samples, which allows a rapid, simultaneous determination of total phenols in a large number of samples.

CONCLUSION

This methodology can be applied in studies evaluating the utility of urinary polyphenols as markers of polyphenol intake, bioavailability and accumulation in the body.

Polyphenol-rich foods exhibit DNA antioxidative properties and protect the glutathione system in healthy subjects

SCOPE

Polyphenols (ingested via food items) can decrease DNA, and oxidative damage of proteins and lipids. However, polyphenol effects in healthy populations have not been well defined. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between urinary total polyphenol excretion (TPE), a biomarker of total polyphenol intake (TPI), polyphenol-rich foods, and oxidative stress biomarkers in healthy adults of different ages participating in the cross-sectional PAScual MEDicina study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Urinary TPE was determined by Folin-Ciocalteau method in spot urine samples of 81 participants (46 women), classified into three age groups: 18 to 39, 40 to 54, and 55 to 72 years of age. TPI was quantified from 3-day dietary records using the Phenol-Explorer database. Urinary TPE increased with age (p < 0.001). Urinary TPE was inversely associated with urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG; p<0.001) and erythrocyte-oxidized glutathione concentrations (p < 0.05). A negative association between urinary 8-OHdG and daily intake of polyphenols from vegetables and fermented beverages such as red wine was observed.

CONCLUSION

Urinary TPE increased with age and may reflect attenuation of oxidative damage. These results could explain the beneficial effects in healthy individuals of a diet rich in vegetables and moderate red wine; food items typical of the Mediterranean diet.

Comparison of 24-h volume and creatinine-corrected total urinary polyphenol as a biomarker of total dietary polyphenols in the Invecchiare InCHIANTI study

Polyphenols have beneficial effects on several chronic diseases but assessing polyphenols intake from self-reported dietary questionnaires tends to be inaccurate and not very reliable. A promising alternative is to use urinary excretion of polyphenols as a proxy measure of intake. The best method to assess urinary excretion is to collect 24-h urine. However, since collecting 24-h urine method is expensive, time consuming and may be difficult to implement in large population-based studies, measures obtained from spot urine normalized by creatinine are commonly used. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the correlation between polyphenols dietary intake and total urinary polyphenol excretion (TPE), expressed by both 24-h volume and urinary creatinine normalization in 928 participants from the InCHIANTI study. Dietary intake data were collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Urinary TPE was analyzed by Folin-Ciocalteau assay. Both urinary TPE expression models were statistically correlated (r=0.580), and the partial correlation coefficient improved (pr=0.722) after adjusting for the variables that modify the urinary creatinine excretion (i.e. gender, age, BMI, physical activity and renal function). In crude models, polyphenol intake was associated with TPE corrected by 24-h volume (r=0.211; P<0.001), but not with creatinine normalization (r=0.014; P=0.692). However, urinary TPE expressed by creatinine correction was significantly correlated with dietary polyphenols after adjusting for covariates (pr=0.113; P=0.002). We conclude that urinary TPE expressed by 24-h volume is a better biomarker of polyphenol dietary intake than by urinary creatinine normalization. After covariate adjustment, both can be used for studying the relationships between polyphenol intake and health in large-scale epidemiological studies.

Phenolic profile and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity as chemotaxonomic markers of tomato varieties

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.), the second most important vegetable crop worldwide, are a key component in the so-called "Mediterranean diet", which is strongly associated with a reduced risk of chronic degenerative diseases. In this work, we evaluate the differences in the total and individual polyphenol content and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity of seven varieties of tomato cultivated in Vegas Bajas del Guadiana, Badajoz (Spain), which were collected from two consecutive harvests (2008-2009). Hydrophilic antioxidant capacity was evaluated using the TEAC assay, while the Folin-Ciocalteau assay with a previous cleanup was used to establish total polyphenol content. The method was optimized and validated. Individual polyphenols were quantified using liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) on a triple quadrupole. All compounds were found to be significantly different when analysis of variance was performed. Results from the principal component analysis show that phenolic compounds and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity were responsible for the differences among tomato samples according to variety.

Seasonal variation in total phenolic and flavonoid contents and DPPH scavenging activity of Bellis perennis L. flowers

Variations in total phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activity of Bellis perennis (common daisy) flowers were investigated. The flowers were collected monthly (from March to October, i.e., during the usual flowering season of the plant) at three localities in three different years. Total flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically by two methods: by formation of a complex with aluminium chloride after acidic hydrolysis of flower extracts (method 1) and by reaction with boric and oxalic acids in extracts without their modification (method 2). Total phenolics were determined spectrophotometrically using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. The antioxidant activity was determined spectrophotometrically by a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The contents of flavonoids varied from 0.31 to 0.44 mg quercetin equivalent/100 mg dry weight (method 1) and from 1.37 to 2.20 mg apigenin-7-glucoside equivalent/100 mg dry weight (method 2). Total phenolics ranged from 2.81 to 3.57 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 mg dry weight. The antioxidant activity expressed as IC₅₀ values varied from 66.03 to 89.27 µg/mL; it is about 50, 30, 20, and 10 times lower as compared with quercetin, ascorbic acid, Trolox^®, and butylhydroxytoluene, respectively, and about five times higher in comparison with apigenin-7-glucoside. There is a significant correlation between antioxidant activity and total phenolics. No correlation between total flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity was observed. Contents of phenolics and flavonoids as well as antioxidant activity of daisy flowers vary to a relatively small extent during the year and are not dependant on the time of collection. Thus, the flowers possess comparable quality as to these characteristics over the whole flowering season of Bellis perennis. Effects of environmental factors on the amounts of secondary metabolites in plants are also discussed.

Fluorescent detection of (-)-epicatechin in microsamples from cacao seeds and cocoa products: Comparison with Folin-Ciocalteu method

Polyphenolic compounds of the flavanoid family are abundantly present in cacao seed and its cocoa products. Results from studies using cocoa products indicate beneficial effects of flavanols on cardiovascular endpoints. Evidence indicates that (-)-epicatechin is the main cacao flavanol associated with cardiovascular effects, so the accurate quantification of its content in cacao seeds or cocoa products is important. Common methods for the quantification of phenolic content in cocoa products are based on the reaction of phenols with colorimetric reagents such as the Folin-Ciocalteu (FC) In this study, we compared the FC method of phenolic determinations using 2 different standards (gallic acid and (-)-epicatechin) to construct calibration curves. We compare these results with those obtained from a simple fluorometric method (Ex(280)/Em(320) nm) used to determine catechin/(-)-epicatechin content in samples of cacao seeds and cocoa products. Values obtained from the FC method determination of polyphenols yield an overestimation of phenol (flavonoid) content when gallic acid is used as standard. Moreover, the epicatechin is a more reliable standard because of its abundance in cacao seeds and cocoa products. The use of fluorometric spectra yields a simple and highly quantitative means for a more precise and rapid quantification of cacao catechins. Fluorometric values are essentially in agreement with those reported using more cumbersome methods. In conclusion, the use of fluorescence emission spectra is a quick, practical and suitable means to quantifying catechins in cacao seeds and cocoa products.

Antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents of 56 wild fruits from South China

In order to identify wild fruits possessing high nutraceutical potential, the antioxidant activities of 56 wild fruits from South China were systematically evaluated. The fat-soluble components were extracted with tetrahydrofuran, and the water-soluble ones were extracted with a 50:3.7:46.3 (v/v) methanol-acetic acid-water mixture. The antioxidant capacities of the extracts were evaluated using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays, and their total phenolic contents were measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Most of these wild fruits were analyzed for the first time for their antioxidant activities. Generally, these fruits had high antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents. A significant correlation between the FRAP value and the TEAC value suggested that antioxidant components in these wild fruits were capable of reducing oxidants and scavenging free radicals. A high correlation between antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content indicated that phenolic compounds could be the main contributors to the measured antioxidant activity. The results showed that fruits of Eucalyptus robusta, Eurya nitida, Melastoma sanguineum, Melaleuca leucadendron, Lagerstroemia indica, Caryota mitis, Lagerstroemia speciosa and Gordonia axillaris possessed the highest antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents among those tested, and could be potential rich sources of natural antioxidants and functional foods. The results obtained are very helpful for the full utilization of these wild fruits.

Effect of milk on the urinary excretion of microbial phenolic acids after cocoa powder consumption in humans

Health effects of cocoa flavonols depend on their bioavailability, which is strongly influenced by the food matrix and the degree of flavanol polymerization. The effect of milk on the bioavailability of cocoa flavanoids considering phase II metabolites of epicatechin has been the subject of considerable debate. This work studies the effect of milk at the colonic microbial metabolism level of the nonabsorbed flavanol fraction that reaches the colon and is metabolized by the colonic microbiota into various phenolic acids. Twenty-one human volunteers followed a diet low in polyphenols for at least 48 h before taking, in a random order, 40 g of cocoa powder dissolved either in 250 mL of whole milk or in 250 mL of water. Urine samples were collected before the intake and during three different periods (0-6, 6-12, and 12-24 h). Phenolic acids were analyzed by LC-MS/MS after solid-phase extraction. Of the 15 metabolites assessed, the excretion of 9 phenolic acids was affected by the intake of milk. The urinary concentration of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic, protocatechuic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, 4-hydroxyhippuric, hippuric, caffeic, and ferulic acids diminished after the intake of cocoa with milk, whereas urinary concentrations of vanillic and phenylacetic acids increased. In conclusion, milk partially affects the formation of microbial phenolic acids derived from the colonic degradation of procyanidins and other compounds present in cocoa powder.

The effect of polyphenol-rich dark chocolate on fasting capillary whole blood glucose, total cholesterol, blood pressure and glucocorticoids in healthy overweight and obese subjects

Numerous studies indicate that polyphenol-rich chocolate reduces fasting blood glucose, blood pressure (BP) and total cholesterol in healthy individuals and hypertensives with or without glucose intolerance. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of two doses of polyphenol-rich dark chocolate (DC) on fasting capillary whole blood glucose, total cholesterol and BP and to examine whether improvements in these parameters are associated with changes in adrenocorticoid excretion in overweight and obese individuals. The study used a randomised, single-blind, cross-over design where fourteen overweight and obese subjects were randomised to either take 20 g DC with 500 mg polyphenols then 20 g DC with 1000 mg polyphenols or vice-versa. Participants followed each diet for 2 weeks separated by a 1-week washout period. It was observed that the 500 mg polyphenol dose was equally effective in reducing fasting blood glucose levels, systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) as the 1000 mg polyphenol dose suggesting that a saturation effect might occur with increasing dose of polyphenols. There was also a trend towards a reduction in urinary free cortisone levels with both groups although it did not reach statistical significance. No changes in anthropometrical measurements were seen. We suggest that more research is required to investigate the mechanism(s) by which polyphenol-rich foods influence health.

Human urine: Epicatechin metabolites and antioxidant activity after cocoa beverage intake

Associations between cocoa consumption in humans, excreted metabolites and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) have been scarcely investigated. The aims of the study were to investigate the epicatechin (( - )-Ec) metabolites excreted in urine samples after an intake of 40 g of cocoa powder along with the TAC of these urine samples and the relation between both the analyses. Each of the 21 volunteers received two interventions, one with a polyphenol-rich food (PRF) and one with a polyphenol-free food (PFF) in a randomized cross-over study. Urine samples were taken before and during 24 h at 0-6, 6-12 and 12-24 h periods after test intake. The excreted ( - )-Ec metabolites and the TAC were determined in urine samples by LC-MS/MS and TEAC assay, respectively. The maximum excretion of ( - )-Ec metabolites and the maximum TAC value were observed in urine samples excreted between 6 and 12 h after PRF consumption. Significance of TAC increase was found in urine samples excreted during 0-6 and 6-12 h (66.6 and 72.67%, respectively, with respect to the 0 h).

Resveratrol metabolites in urine as a biomarker of wine intake in free-living subjects: The PREDIMED Study

Several clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that moderate wine consumption may exert a protective effect against oxidative stress involved in several diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. However, the epidemiological assessment of wine consumption has usually been obtained using self-reported questionnaires containing less reliable information for assessing total intake than nutritional biomarkers. A reliable biomarker for wine consumption is, therefore, needed. To validate urinary resveratrol metabolites (RMs) as a biomarker of wine consumption in a large cohort of free-living subjects, 1000 consecutive subjects entering a substudy of the PREDIMED trial (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) were evaluated. Data were collected in a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. RMs were measured in morning urine by LC-MS/MS. Urinary RM values correlated directly with reported daily amounts of wine consumed (r=0.895; p<0.001). One drink of wine per week can be detected. Using a cut-off of 411.4 nmol/g creatinine, the measurement of urinary RMs could discriminate wine consumers from non-wine consumers with a sensitivity of 93.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 91.5-94.7%) and a specificity of 92.1% (CI 90.2-93.7%). Urinary RMs fulfill the criteria to be considered as a nutritional biomarker of wine consumption in a large sample of free-living subjects. This biomarker would provide an additional tool for investigating more precisely the relationship between wine consumption and health benefits.