Consumption of pomegranates improves synaptic function in a transgenic mice model of Alzheimer's disease

The efficacy of Punica granatum extract gel in the treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus in an Indian population: A clinical study

INTRODUCTION

The autoimmune disorder, oral lichen planus (OLP), primarily affects oral mucous membranes. Current drug treatments are only palliative and have serious side effects. Pomegranate has been used as a potential herbal remedy for the treatment of OLP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study consisted of a sample size of 30 individuals who were diagnosed with symptomatic OLP based on both clinical and histological evidence and were equally assigned to Group A (4% topical Punica granatum seed extract gel, which has been customized for this particular study purpose only) and Group B (0.1% topical steroid). All patients were evaluated for the outcome criteria of pain, burning sensation, and lesion size.

RESULTS

In the present study, results were highly statistically significant (P = 0.001) in intragroup observation for both Group A and Group B from baseline to the end of 30 days of follow-up for all three parameters. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for each week of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

P. granatum has been used in very few studies, but this is one of the few where a gel made from P. granatum seed extract is used as an oral gel. In conclusion, it can be said that topical P. granatum extract gel is as good as topical corticosteroids at getting rid of the signs and symptoms of OLP, so it can be used as an alternative treatment.

An insight into the neuroprotective effects and molecular targets of pomegranate (Punica granatum) against Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that still has no permanent cure. The drugs prescribed in the present days are only for symptomatic relief for the patients. Many studies correlating the reduction in the incidence of AD with the diet consumed have been published. These studies showed that a diet rich in polyphenols is associated with a decrease in the incidence of AD. The present review is focused on the ability of pomegranate and its bioactive components to ameliorate the progression of AD and their ability to exert a neuroprotective effect. Various studies showing the ability of pomegranate in inhibiting enzymes, reducing reactive oxygen species, inhibition of microglial activation, inhibition of tau protein hyperphosphorylation, maintenance of synaptic plasticity, anti-inflammatory activity and its ability to inhibit Beta secretase-1 (BACE-1) has been reviewed in this article. In spite of the lack of studies on humans, there are compelling evidence indicating that pomegranate can reduce various risk factors involved in the causation of AD and thus can be used as a persistent nutraceutical to slow ageing and for providing neuroprotection for the treatment of AD.Highlights An overview of traditional and pharmacological uses of pomegranate (POM).Potential of POM in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases especially in AD.Insight into the molecular mechanisms of neuroprotective effects of POM in AD.Clinical evaluation studies involving POM and its bioactive components.

Pomegranate: A Source of Multifunctional Bioactive Compounds Potentially Beneficial in Alzheimer's Disease

Pomegranate fruit (PF) is a fruit rich in nutraceuticals. Nonedible parts of the fruit, especially peels, contain high amounts of bioactive components that have been largely used in traditional medicine, such as the Chinese, Unani, and Ayurvedic ones, for treating several diseases. Polyphenols such as anthocyanins, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lignans are the major bioactive molecules present in PF. Therefore, PF is considered a source of natural multifunctional agents that exert simultaneously antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antidiabetic, cardiovascular, and neuroprotective activities. Recently, several studies have reported that the nutraceuticals contained in PF (seed, peel, and juice) have a potential beneficial role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Research suggests that the neuroprotective effect of PF is mostly due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities which contribute to attenuate the neuroinflammation associated with AD. Despite the numerous works conducted on PF, to date the mechanism by which PF acts in combatting AD is not completely known. Here, we summarize all the recent findings (in vitro and in vivo studies) related to the positive effects that PF and its bioactive components can have in the neurodegeneration processes occurring during AD. Moreover, considering the high biotransformation characteristics of the nutraceuticals present in PF, we propose to consider the chemical structure of its active metabolites as a source of inspiration to design new molecules with the same beneficial effects but less prone to be affected by the metabolic degradation process.

Nutritional importance and industrial uses of pomegranate peel: A critical review

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), commonly known as a seeded or granular apple, is a delectable fruit eaten worldwide. Pomegranate is one of the healthiest fruits, with a high concentration of phenolic compounds. Large quantities of byproducts, such as seeds and peels, are produced during the pomegranate juice extraction process, which causes disposal problems and environmental contamination. Pomegranate peel (PoP), which accounts for around 30%-40% of the fruit component, is a byproduct of the fruit juice manufacturing industry. PoP is a rich source of polyphenols including phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids, especially anthocyanin. These peels offer several functional and nutraceutical qualities owing to their bioactive ingredients, including lowering blood pressure, reducing oxidative stress, lowering cholesterol levels, and restoring heart health. PoPs have a variety of biological effects, including the ability to resist pathogenic microbes effectively, and used as an additive in various food applications. The current review focuses on the PoP's nutritional and practical attributes, as well as their functions as food additives and functional food preparations.

Functional foods and their impact on health

Functional foods play an important role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk factors of various diseases. Most foods have a functional element which is responsible for improving the healthy state. All food substances such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, dairy contain functional ingredients. A wide range of naturally occurring substances from plant and animal sources having active components which play a role in physiological actions deserve attention for their optimal use in maintaining health. The market for functional food is keep on expanding, and the global market is projected to reach a value of at least 91 billion USD soon. Overwhelming evidence from preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical studies have shown that intake of functional foods could have an impact on the prevention of chronic diseases, especially cancer, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal tract disorders and neurological diseases. Extensive research needs to be done to determine the potential health benefits for the proper application of these foods to improve health state and combat chronic disease progression. The aim of this review is to conduct a thorough literature survey, to understand the various classification of functional foods and their health benefits.

Preventive and Therapeutic Effects of Punica granatum L. Polyphenols in Neurological Conditions

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a polyphenol-rich food and medicinal plant containing flavonols, anthocyanins, and tannins. Ellagitannins (ETs) are the most abundant polyphenols in pomegranate. A growing body of research shows that polyphenol-rich pomegranate extracts and their metabolites target multiple types of brain cell and support their redox balance, proliferation and survival, as well as cell signaling. Independent studies have demonstrated that the significant neuroprotective effects of ETs are mediated by their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, their chelating properties, by their ability to activate various signaling pathways, as well as the ability to influence mitochondrial damage, thus regulating autophagy, apoptosis and neurotransmitter signaling. The multitude of in vitro and in vivo studies summarized in the present review suggest that pomegranate polyphenols act on both neuronal and glial cells directly, and also affect blood-brain barrier function, restoring redox balance in the blood and brain and increasing blood flow to the brain.

Pharmacotherapeutic potential of pomegranate in age-related neurological disorders

Age-related neurological disorders [AND] include neurodegenerative diseases [NDDs] such as Alzheimer's disease [AD] and Parkinson's disease [PD], which are the most prevalent types of dementia in the elderly. It also includes other illnesses such as migraine and epilepsy. ANDs are multifactorial, but aging is their major risk factor. The most frequent and vital pathological features of AND are oxidative stress, inflammation, and accumulation of misfolded proteins. As AND brain damage is a significant public health burden and its incidence is increasing, much has been done to overcome it. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the polyphenol-rich fruits that is widely mentioned in medical folklore. Pomegranate is commonly used to treat common disorders such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, wound healing, bleeding, dysentery, acidosis, microbial infections, infectious and noninfectious respiratory diseases, and neurological disorders. In the current review article, we aimed to summarize the data on the pharmacotherapeutic potentials of pomegranate in ANDs.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Attenuates Neuroinflammation Involved in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Food scientists have studied the many health benefits of polyphenols against pernicious human diseases. Evidence from scientific studies has shown that earlier healthy lifestyle changes, particularly in nutrition patterns, can reduce the burden of age-related diseases. In this context, a large number of plant-derived components belonging to the class of polyphenols have been reported to possess neuroprotective benefits. In this review, we examined studies on the effect of dietary polyphenols, notably from Punica granatum L., on neurodegenerative disease, including Alzheimer's disease, which is symptomatically characterized by impairment of cognitive functions. Clinical trials are in favor of the role of some polyphenols in maintaining neuronal homeostasis and attenuating clinical presentations of the disease. However, discrepancies in study design often bring inconsistent findings on the same component and display differences in their effectiveness due to interindividual variability, bioavailability in the body after administration, molecular structures, cross-blood-brain barrier, and signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Based on preclinical and clinical trials, it appears that pomegranate may prove valuable in treating neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Therefore, due to the lack of information on human clinical trials, future in-depth studies, focusing on human beings, of several bioactive components of pomegranate's polyphenols and their synergic effects should be carried out to evaluate their curative treatment.

Improved Efficiency of Pomegranate Seed Oil Administrated Nasally

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is currently administrated orally as a food supplement for improving memory. However, the efficiency of the oral dosage forms for such purposes is low, mainly due to the blood brain barrier impeding a good delivery to brain. In this work, we designed and characterized a PSO phospholipid oily gel for nasal administration. We tested the performance of the new PSO delivery system in animal models for impaired memory and locomotor activity. The experimental results indicated a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) of more than 1.5 fold in the behavior of animals treated nasally, in comparison to those treated with orally administrated oil. Furthermore, in multiphoton microscopy and near infrared imaging studies, the nasal administration of fluorescent probes, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), and indocyanine green (ICG) incorporated in the PSO system showed enhanced delivery to the brain. Results of the histopathologic examination of the nasal cavity and mucosa, as carried out by a pathologist, indicated the safety of the PSO phospholipid oily gel. In conclusion, the results of this work encourage further investigation of the phospholipid oily gel composition as a new way of PSO administration.

Comparison of the Impact of the Mediterranean Diet, Anti-Inflammatory Diet, Seventh-Day Adventist Diet, and Ketogenic Diet Relative to Cognition and Cognitive Decline

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Increasing evidence points toward the importance of diet and its impact on cognitive decline. This review seeks to clarify the impact of four diets on cognition: the Mediterranean diet, the anti-inflammatory diet, the Seventh Day Adventist diet, and the Ketogenic diet.

RECENT FINDINGS

Of the diets reviewed, the Mediterranean diet provides the strongest evidence for efficacy. Studies regarding the anti-inflammatory diet and Seventh Day Adventist diet are sparse, heterogeneous in quality and outcome measurements, providing limited reliable data. There is also minimal research confirming the cognitive benefits of the Ketogenic diet. Increasing evidence supports the use of the Mediterranean diet to reduce cognitive decline. The MIND-diet, a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, seems especially promising, likely due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The Ketogenic diet may also have potential efficacy; however, adherence in older populations may be difficult given frequent adverse effects. Future research should focus on long-term, well-controlled studies confirming the impact of various diets, as well as the combination of diets and lifestyle modification.

Pomegranate seed polyphenol-based nanosheets as an efficient inhibitor of amyloid fibril assembly and cytotoxicity of HEWL

Poor water solubility and low bioavailability are considered as two main factors restricting therapeutic applications of natural polyphenols in relation to various disorders including amyloid-related diseases. Among various strategies developed to overcome these limitations, nanonization has attracted considerable attention. Herein, we compared the potency of bulk and nano forms of the polyphenolic fraction of pomegranate seed (PFPS) for modulating Hen Egg White Lysozyme (HEWL) amyloid fibril formation. Prepared PFPS nanosheets using direct oxidative pyrolysis were characterized by employing a range of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. We found that the nano form can inhibit the assembly process and disintegrate preformed fibrils of HEWL much more effective than the bulk form of PFPS. Moreover, MTT-based cell viability and hemolysis assays showed the capacity of both bulk and nano forms of PFPS in attenuating HEWL amyloid fibril-induced toxicity, where the nano form was more effective. On the basis of thioflavin T results, a delay in the initiation of amyloid fibril assembly of HEWL appears to be the mechanism of action of PFPS nanosheets. We suggest that the improved efficiency of PFPS nanosheets in modulating the HEWL fibrillation process may be attributed to their increased surface area in accord with the surface-assistance model. Our results may present polyphenol-based nanosheets as a powerful approach for drug design against amyloid-related diseases.

PFPS nanosheets modulate the amyloid fibrillation of HEWL much more effective than the bulk form of PFPS. Based on the thioflavin T results, a delay in the initiation of the assembly process appears to be the mechanism of action of PFPS nanosheets.

Punicalagin Regulates Signaling Pathways in Inflammation-Associated Chronic Diseases

Inflammation is a complex biological defense system associated with a series of chronic diseases such as cancer, arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. The extracts of pomegranate fruit and peel have been reported to possess health-beneficial properties in inflammation-associated chronic diseases. Punicalagin is considered to be the major active component of pomegranate extracts. In this review we have focused on recent studies into the therapeutic effects of punicalagin on inflammation-associated chronic diseases and the regulatory roles in NF-κB, MAPK, IL-6/JAK/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. We have concluded that punicalagin may be a promising therapeutic compound in preventing and treating inflammation-associated chronic diseases, although further clinical studies are required.

Pomegranate peel attenuates dextran sulfate sodium-induced lipid peroxidation in rat small intestine by enhancing the glutathione/glutathione disulfide redox potential

BACKGROUND

The peel of the pomegranate fruit is rich in polyphenols with antioxidant properties. We investigated the preventive effect of pomegranate peel (PP) powder against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced lipid peroxidation in the small intestine of rats. Rats were allocated to four groups: CONT group, fed a standard rodent diet; DSS group, fed a standard rodent diet and treated with DSS; as well as PP1%+DSS and PP5%+DSS groups, fed a standard rodent diet supplemented with either 1% or 5% of PP powder and treated with DSS. Rats of the four groups consumed their diets for 25 days. Lipid peroxidation was determined by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in plasma and MDA contents in the small intestine and liver. Glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) redox status and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined in the small intestine and liver.

RESULTS

MDA content was higher (P < 0.001) in the small intestines of the DSS group compared to the CONT group. MDA content was reduced (P < 0.001) in the small intestines of the PP1%+DSS and PP5%+DSS groups compared to the DSS group. GSH contents and GSH/GSSG ratios were higher (P < 0.001) in the small intestines of the PP5%+DSS group compared to the CONT, DSS and PP1%+DSS groups.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that PP powder protects the small intestine against DSS-induced lipid peroxidation by enhancing the GSH/GSSG redox potential. Powder of PP is a promising agricultural by-product containing a mixture of bioactive polyphenols that can be used for the production of functional foods aimed at the prevention of oxidative stress-induced small intestine pathogenesis. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Neuro-nutraceuticals: Natural products nourish the brain but be aware of contrary effects

In this Special Issue on "Nutraceuticals: Molecular and Functional Insights into how Natural Products Nourish the Brain", the editors bring together contributions from experts in nutraceutical research to provide a contemporary overview of how select chemically identified molecules from natural products can beneficially affect brain function at the molecular level. Other contributions address the holistic benefit of herbal medicines and their multi-targeted actions, which improve brain function in diverse cellular and animal models of brain injury. Not only are new targets for nutraceuticals reported, but their benefits on neurobehavioural problems are elucidated in conditions as diverse as obesity and menopause. Inflammation in neuropathologies, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), remains a huge focus and diverse nutraceuticals demonstrate therapeutic applicability via glial-mediated actions. While contrary actions should be borne in mind in the search for novel neurotherapeutics, the great promise offered by herbal medicines and their newly identified active principles offers unique options for the management of diverse neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Improving Age-Related Cognitive Decline through Dietary Interventions Targeting Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Aging is inevitable and it is one of the major contributors to cognitive decline. However, the mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive decline are still the object of extensive research. At the biological level, it is unknown how the aging brain is subjected to progressive oxidative stress and neuroinflammation which determine, among others, mitochondrial dysfunction. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment is becoming ever more clear by the presence of significant neurological disturbances in human mitochondrial diseases. Possibly, the most important lifestyle factor determining mitochondrial functioning is nutrition. Therefore, with the present work, we review the latest findings disclosing a link between nutrition, mitochondrial functioning and cognition, and pave new ways to counteract cognitive decline in late adulthood through diet.

Role of natural products for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Negative psychological and physiological consequences of neurodegenerative disorders represent a high social and health cost. Among the neurodegenerative disorders Alzheimer's disease (AD) is recognized as a leading neurodegenerative condition and a primary cause of dementia in the elderlys. AD is considered as neurodegenerative disorder that progressively impairs cognitive function and memory. According to current epidemiological data, about 50 milLion people worldwide are suffering from AD. The primary symptoms of AD are almost inappreciable and usually comprise forgetfulness of recent events. Numerous processes are involved in the development of AD, for example oxidative stress (OS) mainly due to mitochondrial dysfunction, intracellular the accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau (τ) proteins in the form of neurofibrillary tangles, excessive the accumulation of extracellular plaques of beta-amyloid (Aβ), genetic and environmental factors. Running treatments only attenuate symptoms and temporarily reduce the rate of cognitive progression associated with AD. This means that most treatments focus only on controlLing symptoms, particularly in the initial stages of the disease. In the past, the first choice of treatment was based on natural ingredients. In this sense, diverse natural products (NPs) are capable to decrease the symptoms and alleviate the development of several diseases including AD attracting the attention of the scientific community and the pharmaceutical industry. Specifically, numerous NPs including flavonoids, gingerols, tannins, anthocyanins, triterpenes and alkaloids have been shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-amyloidogenic, and anti-choLinesterase properties. This review provide a summary of the pathogenesis and the therapeutic goals of AD. It also discusses the available data on various plants and isolated natural compounds used to prevent and diminish the symptoms of AD.

A randomized controlled trial investigating the impact of maternal dietary supplementation with pomegranate juice on brain injury in infants with IUGR

Animal studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of polyphenol-rich pomegranate juice. We recently reported altered white matter microstructure and functional connectivity in the infant brain following in utero pomegranate juice exposure in pregnancies with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This double-blind exploratory randomized controlled trial further investigates the impact of maternal pomegranate juice intake on brain structure and injury in a second cohort of IUGR pregnancies diagnosed at 24–34 weeks’ gestation. Ninety-nine mothers and their eligible fetuses (n = 103) were recruited from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and randomly assigned to 8 oz pomegranate (n = 56) or placebo (n = 47) juice to be consumed daily from enrollment to delivery. A subset of participants underwent fetal echocardiogram after 2 weeks on juice with no evidence of ductal constriction. 57 infants (n = 26 pomegranate, n = 31 placebo) underwent term-equivalent MRI for assessment of brain injury, volumes and white matter diffusion. No significant group differences were found in brain volumes or white matter microstructure; however, infants whose mothers consumed pomegranate juice demonstrated lower risk for brain injury, including any white or cortical grey matter injury compared to placebo. These preliminary findings suggest pomegranate juice may be a safe in utero neuroprotectant in pregnancies with known IUGR warranting continued investigation.

Clinical trial registration: NCT04394910, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04394910, Registered May 20, 2020, initial participant enrollment January 16, 2016.

Role of Munc18-1 in the biological functions and pathogenesis of neurological disorders (Review)

The release of neurotransmitters following the fusion of synaptic vesicles and the presynaptic membrane is an important process in the transmission of neuronal information. Syntaxin-binding protein 1 (Munc18-1) is a synaptic fusion protein binding protein, which mainly regulates synaptic vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release by interacting with soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor. In addition to affecting neurotransmitter transmission, Munc18-1 is also involved in regulating neurosynaptic plasticity, neurodevelopment and neuroendocrine cell release functions (including thyroxine and insulin release). A number of previous studies have demonstrated that Munc18-1 has diverse and vital biological functions, and that its abnormal expression serves an important role in the pathogenesis of a variety of neurological diseases, including epileptic encephalopathy, schizophrenia, autism, Parkinsons disease, Alzheimers disease, multiple sclerosis, Duchennes muscular dystrophy and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. The present review summarizes the function of Munc18-1 and its possible relationship to the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases.

Diet Supplementation with Pomegranate Peel Improves Embryonic Survival in a Mouse Model of Early Pregnancy Loss

The peel of pomegranate fruit is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds with powerful antioxidant properties. We evaluated the therapeutic potential of pomegranate peel (PP) in the prevention of early pregnancy loss in a mouse model of embryonic mortality and abortion (female CBA/J x male DBA/2). CBA/J mice were divided into 3 groups: mice in control group (CONT group) were fed a standard diet, whereas mice in groups 2 and 3 were fed a standard diet supplemented with 1% PP (PP1% group) and 5% PP (PP5% group), respectively. All the mice were fed their diets for 10 days before mating and continued with the same diets for a further 14 days after mating. At day 14 of pregnancy the female mice were sacrificed and the placentas and maternal livers were harvested for measurement of the content of thiols and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as biomarkers of oxidative stress, and the enzymatic activities of total superoxide dismutase (TSOD), copper/zinc SOD (SOD1), manganese SOD (SOD2), selenium glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR). Diet supplemented with 5% PP improved embryonic survival and reduced embryonic mortality from 28.2% (CONT) to 8.5% (PP5%). This was accompanied by increased activities of placental TSOD, SOD1 and SOD2, and thiol content. Diet supplemented with 5% PP also reduced placental oxidative stress as demonstrated by a decrease of placental TBARS content. This study highlights the potential of interventions with PP-supplemented diet before and during early pregnancy, in order to ameliorate embryonic survival and prevent early pregnancy loss.

Hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of a standardized pomegranate (Punica granatum) fruit extract in high fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6 mice

Diets rich in fats are linked to elevated systemic inflammation, which augments the progression of inflammatory-related disorders including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and neurodegenerative diseases. A phenolic-enriched pomegranate fruit extract (PE) was investigated for its hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in male C57BL/6 mice fed either a high-fat diet or a standard rodent diet with or without 1% of PE for 12 weeks. Mouse livers and hippocampi were evaluated for the expression of genes associated with NAFLD and inflammation by multiplexed gene analysis. PE alleviated diet-induced fatty liver and suppressed hepatic lipid regulating genes including Cd36, Fas, Acot2 and Slc27a1. In addition, PE suppressed gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including Il-1α, Il-7, Il-11, Ifnα, Tnfα and Lepr in the hippocampi. Our findings support the protective effects of PE against high-fat diet-induced hepatic and neurological disease.

Aqueous extract of pomegranate enriched in ellagitannins prevents anxiety-like behavior and metabolic changes induced by cafeteria diet in an animal model of menopause

Women around menopause are vulnerable to present psychiatric and metabolic disorders; thus, therapies that contribute to treat both pathologies are required. Previous reports showed that an aqueous extract of pomegranate (Punica granatum), enriched in ellagitannins, exerts an antidepressant-like effect in ovariectomized rats. We analyze whether this aqueous extract of P. granatum (AE-PG) prevents the anxiety-like behavior induced by a cafeteria diet (CAF) in middle-aged ovariectomized rats at the same time that it prevents an increase in body weight, glucose, lipids, and the changes on mRNA expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) in the liver. Also, the effects of AE-PG on the protein levels of PPAR-γphospho-PPAR-γ, extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) and phospho-ERK1/2 were measured in the hippocampus and amygdala. CAF induced anxiety-like behavior, augmented lipids and glucose blood levels, body weight, visceral fat, insulin resistance, and decreased mRNA expression of PPAR-γ in the liver. In rats fed with the CAF, AE-PG prevented the anxiety-like behavior, reduced body weight, lowered lipid levels, reduced insulin resistance, and increased PPAR-γ mRNA expression in the liver. In the hippocampus, ERK1/2 but not PPAR-γ protein levels were decreased by CAF, while AE-PG prevented these effects. In the amygdala, CAF increased the phosphorylation of PPARγ, and AE-PG prevented it. In contrast, AE-PG rescued the decreased ERK1/2 protein level in the hippocampus caused by CAF. In conclusion, AE-PG treatment prevented anxiogenic and metabolic effects induced by CAF, and its effects appear to be mediated by ERK1/2 and PPARγ depending on the brain area studied.

Tocotrienol Rich Fraction Supplementation Modulate Brain Hippocampal Gene Expression in APPswe/PS1dE9 Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of memory and other cognitive abilities. AD is associated with aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) deposited in the hippocampal brain region. Our previous work has shown that tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation was able to attenuate the blood oxidative status, improve behavior, and reduce fibrillary-type Aβ deposition in the hippocampus of an AD mouse model. In the present study, we investigate the effect of 6 months of TRF supplementation on transcriptome profile in the hippocampus of APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic mice. TRF supplementation can alleviate AD conditions by modulating several important genes in AD. Moreover, TRF supplementation attenuated the affected biological process and pathways that were upregulated in the AD mouse model. Our findings indicate that TRF supplementation can modulate hippocampal gene expression as well as biological processes that can potentially delay the progression of AD.

Neuroprotection of Tropical Fruit Juice Mixture via the Reduction of iNOS Expression and CRH Level in β-Amyloid-Induced Rats Model of Alzheimer's Disease

This study aimed to determine the effects of tropical fruit juice mixture (pomegranate, white guava, and Roselle) on biochemical, behavioral, and histopathological changes of β-amyloid- (Aβ-) induced rats. Formulation 8 (F8) of tropical fruit juice mixture was chosen for this present study due to its high phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Forty Wistar male rats were divided into five groups: dPBS (sham-operated control), dAβ (Aβ control), JPBS (F8 and PBS), JAβ (F8 and Aβ), and IBFAβ (ibuprofen and Aβ). F8 (5 ml/kg BW), and ibuprofen (10 ml/kg BW) was given orally daily for four weeks before the intracerebroventricular infusion of Aβ for two weeks. Histological analysis and neuronal count of hippocampus tissue in the Cornu Ammonis (CA1) region showed that supplementation with F8 was able to prevent Aβ-induced tissue damage and neuronal shrinkage. However, no significant difference in locomotor activity and novel object recognition (NOR) percentage was detected among different groups at day 7 and day 14 following Aβ infusion. Only effect of time differences (main effect of day) was observed at day 7 as compared to day 14, where reduction in locomotor activity and NOR percentage was observed in all groups, with F (1, 7) = 6.940, p < 0.05 and F (1, 7) = 7.152, p < 0.05, respectively. Besides, the MDA level of the JAβ group was significantly lower (p < 0.01) than that of the dPBS group. However, no significant changes in SOD activity were detected among different groups. Significant reduction in plasma CRH level (p < 0.05) and iNOS expression (p < 0.01) in the brain was detected in the JAβ group as compared to the dAβ group. Hence, our current findings suggest that the tropical fruit juice mixture (F8) has the potential to protect the rats from Aβ-induced neurotoxicity in brain hippocampus tissue possibly via its antioxidant properties and the suppression of iNOS expression and CRH production.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

Effect of fresh pomegranate juice on the level of melatonin, insulin, and fasting serum glucose in healthy individuals and people with impaired fasting glucose

Pomegranate juice (PGJ) is rich in unique bioactive compounds that can be used in the management of various diseases/disorders such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of fresh PGJ on levels of melatonin, insulin, and fasting blood glucose in people with impaired fasting glucose (IFG). The study was a randomized clinical trial in which 28 participants (10 males, 18 females) with IFG were recruited from Irbid Central Laboratory and the Diabetes Clinic of the University Hospital at Jordan University of Science and Technology. Blood specimens from each participant were collected before (-5 min), and 1 and 3 hr after PGJ administration at 1.5 ml/kg of the body weight, and melatonin, insulin, and glucose were measured. People with IFG, but not healthy individuals, had significant antihyperglycemic response (p < .0001) to PGJ 3 hr after ingesting the juice. This response was not correlated with the age of participants (p = .4287). In addition, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance was significantly decreased (p < .0001) among people with IFG 3 hr after ingesting the juice. Moreover, 1 hr after PGJ administration, decreases in melatonin and increases in insulin were significantly observed among healthy (p = .0284, p = .0017) and IFG (p = .0056, p = .0007) individuals, respectively. In conclusion, fresh PGJ lowers melatonin, increases the level of insulin, and ameliorates insulin resistance in people with IFG.

Maternal pomegranate juice intake and brain structure and function in infants with intrauterine growth restriction: A randomized controlled pilot study

Polyphenol-rich pomegranate juice has been shown to have benefit as a neuroprotectant in animal models of neonatal hypoxic-ischemia. No published studies have investigated maternal polyphenol administration as a potential neuroprotectant in at-risk newborns, such as those with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot study to investigate the impact of maternal pomegranate juice intake in pregnancies with IUGR, on newborn brain structure and function at term-equivalent age (TEA). Mothers with IUGR at 24-34 weeks' gestation were recruited from Barnes-Jewish Hospital obstetrical clinic. Consented mothers were randomized to treatment (8 oz. pomegranate juice) or placebo (8 oz. polyphenol-free juice) and continued to take juice daily from enrollment until delivery (mean 20.1 and 27.1 days, respectively). Infants underwent brain MRI at TEA (36-41 weeks' gestation). Brain measures were compared between groups including: brain injury score, brain metrics, brain volumes, diffusion tensor imaging and resting state functional connectivity. Statistical analyses were undertaken as modified intention-to-treat (including randomized participants who received their allocated intervention and whose infants received brain MRI) and per-protocol (including participants who strictly adhered to the protocol, based on metabolite status). Seventy-seven mothers were randomized to treatment (n = 40) or placebo (n = 37). Of these, 28 and 27 infants, respectively, underwent term-equivalent MRI. There were no group differences in brain injury, metrics or volumes. However, treatment subjects displayed reduced diffusivity within the anterior and posterior limbs of the internal capsule compared with placebo. Resting state functional connectivity demonstrated increased correlation and covariance within several networks in treatment subjects, with alterations most apparent in the visual network in per-protocol analyses. Direct effects on health were not found. In conclusion, maternal pomegranate juice intake in pregnancies with known IUGR was associated with altered white matter organization and functional connectivity in the infant brain, suggesting differences in brain structure and function following in utero pomegranate juice exposure, warranting continued investigation. Clinical trial registration. NCT00788866, registered November 11, 2008, initial participant enrollment August 21, 2012.

Among Commercially Available Fruit Juices, Pomegranate Is the Most Effective Inhibitor of PMS-Trypsin Amyloid-Like Fibrils Formation

The formation of amyloid fibrils is associated with many human illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spongiform encephalitis, type 2 diabetes, and primary and secondary systemic amyloidosis. Nutrition contributes to the prevention of these diseases. The aim of our work was to look for commercially available fruit juices that can inhibit the formation of amyloid fibrils. Of the fruit juices that we examined, that of pomegranate was found to be the most effective inhibitory agent using turbidity measurements and Congo red binding assay. According to our experiments, pomegranate juice reduced the amount of PMS-trypsin amyloid-like fibrils to 3.7% at 5-fold dilution compared with the sample without pomegranate. The inhibitory effect of the pomegranate juice was concentration dependent.

Punicalagin attenuates endothelial dysfunction by activating FoxO1, a pivotal regulating switch of mitochondrial biogenesis

Accumulating evidence has elucidated that hyperlipidemia is closely associated with an increasing prevalence of CVDs (cardiovascular diseases) because of endothelial dysfunction. In the present study, we investigated the effect and mechanism of PU (Punicalagin), a major ellagitannin in pomegranate, on endothelial dysfunction both in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, PU significantly ameliorated hyperlipidemia-induced accumulation of serum triglyceride and cholesterol as well as endothelial and mitochondrial dysfunction of thoracic aorta. Intriguingly, the FoxO1 (forkhead box O1) pathway was activated, which may account for prevention of vascular dysfunction and mitochondrial loss via upregulating mitochondrial biogenesis. In line, through in vitro cell cultures, our study demonstrated that PU not only increased the total FoxO1 protein, but also enhanced its nuclear translocation. In addition, silencing of FoxO1 remarkably abolished the ability of PU to augment the mitochondrial biogenesis, eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) expression, and oxidative stress, implying the irreplaceable role of FoxO1 in regulating endothelial function in the presence of PU. Conversely, suppression of excessive ROS (reactive oxygen species) secured the PA (palmitate)-induced decrease of FoxO1 expression, implying that there was a cross-talk between FoxO1 pathway and ROS. Concomitantly, the inflammatory response in current study was primarily mediated via p38 MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway besides of FoxO1 pathway. Taken together, our findings suggest that PU ameliorates endothelial dysfunction by activating FoxO1 pathway, a pivotal regulating switch of mitochondrial biogenesis.

Involvement of Akt/CREB signaling pathways in the protective effect of EPA against interleukin-1β-induced cytotoxicity and BDNF down-regulation in cultured rat hippocampal neurons

BACKGROUND

Our published data have indicated that the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) provides beneficial effects by attenuating neuronal damage induced by interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and up-regulation of the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) represents a crucial part in the neuroprotective effect of EPA. However, the mechanisms of how EPA regulates BDNF expression remains incompletely understood. The present study investigated the role of Akt/CREB signaling in the effect of EPA on BDNF expression and its neuroprotective effect.

RESULTS

The present results showed that IL-1β reduced hippocampal neuronal viability and that EPA showed a concentration-dependent neuroprotective effect, but the neuroprotective effects of EPA were abolished by inhibition of Akt using KRX-0401, an inhibitor of Akt. Treatment of hippocampal neurons with EPA also ameliorated the decrease in Akt and CREB phosphorylation induced by IL-1β and BDNF down-regulation mediated by IL-1β. However, inhibition of Akt reversed the effect of EPA on levels of p-Akt, p-CREB, and BDNF.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that EPA elicited neuroprotection toward IL-1β-induced cell damage and BDNF decrease and that its effects potentially occurred via the Akt/CREB signaling pathway.

miR-124 downregulates BACE 1 and alters autophagy in APP/PS1 transgenic mice

One role of BACE 1 (Beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1) is to cleave the sequential amyloid precursor protein (APP) into β-Amyloid (Aβ), the accumulation of which is an important participant in the formation of the amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our previous study showed BACE 1, the potential functional downstream target of miR-124, to be connected to cell death in AD cell models. Recent studies have shown that autophagy is altered in AD, however, as to whether miR-124 is involved in this alteration is not clear. In this study, 7-month-old APP/PS1 transgenic mice were transfected with miR-124 lentiviral vectors, injected bilaterally into the dentate gyrus (DG) of mice hippocampi. Following 7 days of recovery, both behavior and biochemical pathology tests were implemented. The results demonstrated learning ability improvement and specific AD pathology alleviation. Meanwhile there was down-regulation of Bcl-2 to Bax ratio expression, increase in Beclin-1 and decreases in expression of LC3II, Atg5 and p62/SQSTMl. In view of this, we hypothesis that miR-124 conducts its neuroprotective effect through BACE 1 by regulation of autophagic pathways.

Could Pomegranate Juice Help in the Control of Inflammatory Diseases?

Fruits rich in polyphenols, such as pomegranates, have been shown to have health benefits relating to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Using data obtained from PubMed and Scopus, this article provides a brief overview of the therapeutic effects of pomegranate on chronic inflammatory diseases (CID) such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, and other inflammatory-associated conditions, with an emphasis on fruit-derived juices. Most studies regarding the effects of pomegranate juice have focused on its ability to treat prostate cancer, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. However, pomegranate juice has shown therapeutic potential for many other illnesses. For instance, a small number of human clinical trials have highlighted the positive effects of pomegranate juice and extract consumption on cardiovascular health. The beneficial effects of pomegranate components have also been observed in animal models for respiratory diseases, RA, neurodegenerative disease, and hyperlipidaemia. Furthermore, there exists strong evidence from rodent models suggesting that pomegranate juice can be used to effectively treat IBD, and as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat CID. The effects of pomegranate intake should be further investigated by conducting larger and more well-defined human trials.

Inhibition of Inflammation Mediated Through the Tumor Necrosis Factor α Biochemical Pathway Can Lead to Favorable Outcomes in Alzheimer Disease

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) inhibitors have long been used as disease-modifying agents in immune disorders. Recently, research has shown a role of chronic neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease, and interest has been generated in the use of anti-TNF agents and TNF-modulating agents for prevention and treatment. This article extensively reviewed literature on animal studies testing these agents. The results showed a role for direct and indirect TNF-α inhibition through agents such as thalidomide, 3,6-dithiothalidomide, etanercept, infliximab, exendin-4, sodium hydrosulfide, minocycline, imipramine, and atorvastatin. Studies were performed on mice, rats, and monkeys, with induction of neurodegenerative physiology either through the use of chemical agents or through the use of transgenic animals. Most of these agents showed an improvement in cognitive function as tested with the Morris water maze, and immunohistochemical and histopathological staining studies consistently showed better outcomes with these agents. Brains of treated animals showed significant reduction in pro-inflammatory TNF-α and reduced the burden of neurofibrillary tangles, amyloid precursor protein, and β-amyloid plaques. Also, recruitment of microglial cells in the central nervous system was significantly reduced through these drugs. These studies provide a clearer mechanistic understanding of the role of TNF-α modulation in Alzheimer disease. All studies in this review explored the use of these drugs as prophylactic agents to prevent Alzheimer disease through immune modulation of the TNF inflammatory pathway, and their success highlights the need for further research of these drugs as therapeutic agents.

Naoling decoction restores cognitive function by inhibiting the neuroinflammatory network in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease

Neuroinflammation is central to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We previously showed that Naoling decoction (NLD), a traditional Chinese medicine, was effective against AD, acting by inhibiting expression of IL-1β and IL-6. In the present study, we generated the rat model of AD by injecting Aβ1-42 peptide intracerebroventricularly and evaluated the dose-dependent effects of NLD treatment. The NLD-treated rats exhibited significant improvements in cognitive function as evaluated by the Morris water maze test. Golgi-Cox staining revealed that NLD treatment dose-dependently increased dendritic spines in the CA1 region, which were diminished in vehicle-treated rats. Further, NLD treatment normalized hippocampal Chromogranin A levels, which were elevated by Aβ1-42 induction. NLD also attenuated activation of microglia and astrocytes induced by Aβ1-42. Subsequently, NLD dose-dependently reduced levels TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and the ASC-dependent inflammasome in the hippocampus. These findings reveal that NLD is a promising therapeutic agent that exerts inhibitory effects at multiple sites within the neuroinflammatory network induced in AD.