The Use of Euterpe oleracea Mart. As a New Perspective for Disease Treatment and Prevention

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Oil and Its Nanoemulsion: Chemical Characterisation, Toxicity Evaluation, Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities

This study explores a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil, known for its rich fatty acid composition and diverse biological activities. This study aimed to characterise a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil and explore its cytotoxic effects on HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines, alongside assessing its antioxidant and toxicity properties both in vitro and in vivo. Extracted from fruits sourced in Brazil, the oil underwent thorough chemical characterization using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The resulting nanoemulsion was prepared and evaluated for stability, particle size, and antioxidant properties. The nanoemulsion exhibited translucency, fluidity, and stability post centrifugation and temperature tests, with a droplet size of 238.37, PDI -9.59, pH 7, and turbidity 0.267. In vitro assessments on cervical cancer cell lines revealed antitumour effects, including inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation. Toxicity tests conducted in cell cultures and female Swiss mice demonstrated no adverse effects of both açaí seed oil and nanoemulsion. Overall, açaí seed oil, particularly when formulated into a nanoemulsion, presents potential for cancer treatment due to its bioactive properties and safety profile.

Açaí berry ameliorates cognitive impairment by inhibiting NLRP3/ASC/CASP axis in STZ-induced diabetic neuropathy in mice

Diabetes complications such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) are linked to morbidity and mortality. Peripheral nerve damages in DPN are accompanied by discomfort, weakness, and sensory loss. Some drugs may demonstrate their therapeutic promise by reducing neuroinflammation, but they have side effects. Based on these considerations, the objective of this study was to examine the beneficial properties of açaí berry in a mouse model of DPN generated by injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Açaí berry was given orally to diabetic and control mice every day beginning 2 wk after STZ injection. The animals were euthanized after 16 wk, and tissues from the spinal cord and sciatic nerve and urine were taken. Our findings showed that daily treatment of açaí berry at a dose of 500 mg/kg was able to prevent behavioral changes as well as mast cell activation and nerve deterioration via NOD-like receptor family pyrin-domain-containing-3 (NLRP3)/apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a card (ASC)/caspase (CASP) regulation after diabetes induction.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our research shows that açaí berry reduces mast cells degranulation and histological damage in diabetic neuropathy, improves physiological defense against reactive oxygen species, modulates the NLRP3/ASC/CASP axis, and ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress. Diet could help treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

What We Know about Euterpe Genus and Neuroprotection: A Scoping Review

The Euterpe genus (mainly Euterpe oleracea Martius, Euterpe precatoria Martius, and Euterpe edulis Martius) has recently gained commercial and scientific notoriety due to the high nutritional value of its fruits, which are rich in polyphenols (phenolic acids and anthocyanins) and have potent antioxidant activity. These characteristics have contributed to the increased number of neuropharmacological evaluations of the three species over the last 10 years, especially açaí of the species Euterpe oleracea Martius. The fruits of the three species exert neuroprotective effects through the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative pathways and other mechanisms, including the inhibition of the mTOR pathway and protection of the blood-brain barrier, all of them intimately involved in several neuropathologies. Thus, a better understanding of the neuropharmacological properties of these three species may open new paths for the development of therapeutic tools aimed at preventing and treating a variety of neurological conditions.

Acai Berry (Euterpe sp.) Extracts Are Neuroprotective against L-Glutamate-Induced Toxicity by Limiting Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cellular Redox Stress

Aberrant accumulation of the neurotransmitter L-glutamate (L-Glu) has been implicated as a mechanism of neurodegeneration, and the release of L-Glu after stroke onset leads to a toxicity cascade that results in neuronal death. The acai berry (Euterpe oleracea) is a potential dietary nutraceutical. The aim of this research was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of acai berry aqueous and ethanolic extracts to reduce the neurotoxicity to neuronal cells triggered by L-Glu application. L-Glu and acai berry effects on cell viability were quantified using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, and effects on cellular bioenergetics were assessed via quantitation of the levels of cellular ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in neuroblastoma cells. Cell viability was also evaluated in human cortical neuronal progenitor cell culture after L-Glu or/and acai berry application. In isolated cells, activated currents using patch-clamping were employed to determine whether L-Glu neurotoxicity was mediated by ionotropic L-Glu-receptors (iGluRs). L-Glu caused a significant reduction in cell viability, ATP, and MMP levels and increased ROS production. The co-application of both acai berry extracts with L-Glu provided neuroprotection against L-Glu with sustained cell viability, decreased LDH production, restored ATP and MMP levels, and reduced ROS levels. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that L-Glu toxicity is not mediated by the activation of iGluRs in neuroblastoma cells. Fractionation and analysis of acai berry extracts with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry identified several phytochemical antioxidants that may have provided neuroprotective effects. In summary, the acai berry contains nutraceuticals with antioxidant activity that may be a beneficial dietary component to limit pathological deficits triggered by excessive L-Glu accumulations.

Photodynamic therapy with acai (Euterpe oleracea) and blue light in oral cells: A spectroscopic and cytotoxicity analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with blue light-emitting diode (LED) 460 nm at 25, 50 and 100 J/cm² using three concentrations of acai extracts (100, 40, and 10 mg/ml), in the proliferation and viability of head and neck tumor lines (SCC9).

METHODS

Three groups of cells were analyzed for 3 days in an in vitro assay with MTT (3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5, -diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and crystal violet: cells in the absence of acai extract and PDT (control group); cells in the presence of acai extract and no light; and cells in the presence of acai extract and LED blue light (PDT groups).

RESULTS

When using acai as a PS combined with blue LED (460 nm, 0.7466 cm² , 1000 mW/cm² ) and irradiation at 25, 50, and 100 J/cm² , after 72 h, cell viability (p < 0.0001 vs. control, p = 0.0027 vs. 100 mg/ml açai group, p = 0.0039 vs. 40 mg/ml açai group, p = 0.0135 vs. 10 mg/ml açai group; One-Way ANOVA/Tukey) and proliferation (p < 0.05, One-Way ANOVA/Tukey) decreased.

CONCLUSION

The acai in question is a potential photosensitizer (PS), with blue light absorbance and efficacy against head and neck tumor lines (SCC9).

Oral Treatment with the Extract of Euterpe oleracea Mart. Improves Motor Dysfunction and Reduces Brain Injury in Rats Subjected to Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke is one of the principal causes of morbidity and mortality around the world. The pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to the formation of the stroke lesions range from the bioenergetic failure of the cells and the intense production of reactive oxygen species to neuroinflammation. The fruit of the açaí palm, Euterpe oleracea Mart. (EO), is consumed by traditional populations in the Brazilian Amazon region, and it is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We evaluated whether the clarified extract of EO was capable of reducing the area of lesion and promoting neuronal survival following ischemic stroke in rats. Animals submitted to ischemic stroke and treated with EO extract presented a significant improvement in their neurological deficit from the ninth day onward. We also observed a reduction in the extent of the cerebral injury and the preservation of the neurons of the cortical layers. Taken together, our findings indicate that treatment with EO extract in the acute phase following a stroke can trigger signaling pathways that culminate in neuronal survival and promote the partial recovery of neurological scores. However, further detailed studies of the intracellular signaling pathways are needed to better understand the mechanisms involved.

Efficacy and safety of Obex® in overweight and obese subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Obex® may be helpful in reducing body weight and fat. The current study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Obex® in the treatment of overweight and obese subjects.

METHODS

A double-blind, randomised, controlled phase III clinical trial was conducted involving 160 overweight and obese subjects (BMI ≥ 25.0 and < 40 kg/m²) aged 20 to 60 years, who received Obex® (n = 80) and placebo (n = 80) plus non-pharmacological treatment (physical activity and nutritional counseling). One sachet of Obex® or placebo were administered before the two main meals each day for 6 months. In addition to anthropometric measurements and blood pressure, fasting plasma and 2 h glucose levels during the oral glucose tolerance test, lipid profile, insulin, liver enzymes, creatinine, and uric acid (UA) were determined, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) beta-cell function (HOMA-β) were assessed and insulin sensitivity (IS) was calculated with three indirect indexes.

RESULTS

After 3 months of Obex®, 48.3% of the participants (28/58) achieved complete success in reducing both weight and waist circumference by greater than or equal to 5% from baseline, as opposed to 26.0% (13/50) of individuals receiving placebo (p = 0.022). Compared to baseline, at 6 months no differences were found between the groups concerning anthropometric and biochemical measurements, except for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels, which were higher in subjects receiving Obex® compared to those receiving placebo (p = 0.030). After 6 months of treatment, both groups showed reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels (p < 0.012) compared to baseline value. However, only those intake Obex® showed reduced insulin concentrations and HOMA-IR, improved IS (p < 0.05), and decreased creatinine and UA levels (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The consumption of Obex® together with lifestyle changes increased HDL-c, contributed to a rapid reduction of weight and waist circumference, as well as improved insulin homeostasis, which did not occur in the placebo group, and appears to be safe as an adjunct at conventional obesity treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trial protocol was registered in the Cuban public registry of clinical trials under code RPCEC00000267 on 17/04/2018 and also registered in the international registry of clinical trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, under code: NCT03541005 on 30/05/2018.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) in Health and Disease: A Critical Review

The açaí palm (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a species belonging to the Arecaceae family, has been cultivated for thousands of years in tropical Central and South America as a multipurpose dietary plant. The recent introduction of açaí fruit and its nutritional and healing qualities to regions outside its origin has rapidly expanded global demand for açaí berry. The health-promoting and disease-preventing properties of this plant are attributed to numerous bioactive phenolic compounds present in the leaf, pulp, fruit, skin, and seeds. The purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date, comprehensive, and critical evaluation of the health benefits of açaí and its phytochemicals with a special focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that açaí possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and exerts cardioprotective, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, renoprotective, antilipidemic, antidiabetic, and antineoplastic activities. Moreover, clinical trials have suggested that açaí can protect against metabolic stress induced by oxidation, inflammation, vascular abnormalities, and physical exertion. Due to its medicinal properties and the absence of undesirable effects, açaí shows a promising future in health promotion and disease prevention, in addition to a vast economic potential in the food and cosmetic industries.

Common pregnancy complications and polyphenols intake: an overview

During pregnancy, the body undergoes a great amount of changes in order to support a healthy developing fetus. In this context, maternal dietary supplementation is widely encouraged to provide adequate nutrition for the newborn. In the past few years, studies have emerged highlighting the benefits of polyphenols intake during pregnancy. Indeed, despite differences among reports, such as experimental model, polyphenol employed, dosage and regimen of administration, there is no doubt that the ingestion of these molecules has a protective effect in relation to three pregnancy-associated diseases or conditions: preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and fetal growth restriction. In this review, we describe the effects of different polyphenols and polyphenol-rich extracts or juices on the main outcomes of these common pregnancy-associated complications, obtained in human, animal and in vitro studies. Therefore, this work provides a critical analysis of the literature, and a summary of evidences, from which future research using polyphenols can be designed and evaluated.

Phytochemical Profiles and Biological Studies of Selected Botanical Dietary Supplements Used in the United States

Based on their current wide bioavailability, botanical dietary supplements have become an important component of the United States healthcare system, although most of these products have limited scientific evidence for their use. The most recent American Botanical Council Market Report estimated for 2020 a 17.3% increase in sales of these products when compared to 2019, for a total sales volume of $11,261 billion. The use of botanical dietary supplements products in the United States is guided by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) from 1994, enacted by the U.S. Congress with the aim of providing more information to consumers and to facilitate access to a larger number of botanical dietary supplements available on the market than previously. Botanical dietary supplements may be formulated for and use only using crude plant samples (e.g., plant parts such as the bark, leaves, or roots) that can be processed by grinding into a dried powder. Plant parts can also be extracted with hot water to form an "herbal tea." Other preparations of botanical dietary supplements include capsules, essential oils, gummies, powders, tablets, and tinctures. Overall, botanical dietary supplements contain bioactive secondary metabolites with diverse chemotypes that typically are found at low concentration levels. These bioactive constituents usually occur in combination with inactive molecules that may induce synergy and potentiation of the effects observed when botanical dietary supplements are taken in their different forms. Most of the botanical dietary supplements available on the U.S. market have been used previously as herbal remedies or as part of traditional medicine systems from around the world. Their prior use in these systems also provides a certain level of assurance in regard to lower toxicity levels. This chapter will focus on the importance and diversity of the chemical features of bioactive secondary metabolites found in botanical dietary supplements that are responsible for their applications. Many of the active principles of botanical dietary substances are phenolics and isoprenoids, but glycosides and some alkaloids are also present. Biological studies on the active constituents of selected botanical dietary supplements will be discussed. Thus, the present chapter should be of interest for both members of the natural products scientific community, who may be performing development studies of the products available, as well as for healthcare professionals who are directly involved in the analysis of botanical interactions and evaluation of the suitability of botanical dietary supplements for human consumption.

Neuroprotective effects of açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) against diabetic retinopathy

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus describes a metabolic disorder of multiple etiologies, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, which induces a series of molecular events capable of leading to microvascular damage, affecting the blood vessels of the retina, causing diabetic retinopathy. Studies indicate that oxidative stress plays a central role in complications involving diabetes. Açaí (Euterpe oleracea) has attracted much attention given its antioxidant capacity and potential associated health benefits in preventing oxidative stress, one of the causes of diabetic retinopathy. The objective of this work was to evaluate the possible protective effect of açaí (E. oleracea) on the retinal function of mice with induced diabetes, based on full field electroretinogram (ffERG). Methods: We opted for mouse models with induced diabetes by administration of a 2% alloxan aqueous solution and treatment with feed enriched with açaí pulp. The animals were divided into 4 groups: CTR (received commercial ration), DM (received commercial ration), DM + açaí (E. oleracea-enriched ration) and CTR + açaí (E. oleracea-enriched ration). The ffERG was recorded three times, 30, 45 and 60 days after diabetes induction, under scotopic and photopic conditions to access rod, mixed and cone responses, in addition to monitoring the weight and blood glucose of the animals during the study period. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-way ANOVA test with Tukey's post-test. Results: Our work obtained satisfactory results with the ffERG responses in diabetic animals treated with açaí, where it was observed that there was no significant decrease in the b wave ffERG amplitude of this group over time when compared to the results of the Diabetic group not treated with açaí, which showed a significant reduction of this ffERG component. Discussion: The results of the present study show, for the first time, that treatment with an açaí-enriched diet is effective against the decrease in the amplitude of visual electrophysiological responses in animals with induced diabetes, which opens a new horizon for the prevention of retinal damage in diabetic individuals from treatment with açaí base. However, it is worth mentioning that our findings consist of a preliminary study and further researches and clinical trials are needed to examine açaí potential as an alternative therapy for diabetic retinopathy.

Açai Berry Attenuates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Damage in Genitourinary Axis-Modulating Nrf-2/HO-1 Pathways

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is used to treat different malignancies and autoimmune disorders in men. This chemotherapy frequently reduces tumors, which is beneficial, but also causes infertility because of severe oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the bladder and testes brought on by its metabolite, acrolein. The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of a novel food, açai berry, in preventing CYP-induced damage in the bladder and testes.

METHODS

CYP was administered intraperitoneally once during the experiment at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight diluted in 10 mL/kg b.w. of water. Açai berry was administered orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg.

RESULTS

The administration of açai berry was able to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, and histological changes in the bladder and testes after CYP injection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show for the first time that açai berry modulates physiological antioxidant defenses to protect the bladder and testes against CYP-induced changes.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Alveolar Bone Damage in Experimental Periodontitis in Rats

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) juice is rich in phenolic compounds with high antioxidant capacity. It has been observed that the use of antioxidants may be an additional strategy to nonsurgical periodontal therapy as well as to prevent alveolar bone loss. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of açaí supplementation on experimental periodontitis in rats. Twenty male Rattus norvegicus (Wistar) rats were assigned into control, açaí, experimental periodontitis, and experimental periodontitis with açaí supplementation groups. Periodontitis was induced by placing ligatures around the lower first molars. Animals in the açaí groups received 0.01 mL/g of clarified açaí juice for 14 days by intragastric gavage. At the end of the experimental period, blood was collected to assess the reduced glutathione (GSH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) levels. Moreover, hemimandibles were analyzed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for alveolar bone loss and bone quality. Açaí supplementation increased blood total antioxidant capacity and decreased lipid peroxidation. It also reduced alveolar bone loss when compared to the experimental periodontitis group. Moreover, clarified açaí per se modulated the oxidative biochemistry and bone microstructure. Thus, açaí may be considered a viable alternative for managing periodontal oxidative stress and preventing alveolar bone loss.

Açai Berry Mitigates Vascular Dementia-Induced Neuropathological Alterations Modulating Nrf-2/Beclin1 Pathways

The second-most common cause of dementia is vascular dementia (VaD). The majority of VaD patients experience cognitive impairment, which is brought on by oxidative stress and changes in autophagic function, which ultimately result in neuronal impairment and death. In this study, we examine a novel method for reversing VaD-induced changes brought on by açai berry supplementation in a VaD mouse model. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of açai berries on the molecular mechanisms underlying VaD in a mouse model of the disease that was created by repeated ischemia-reperfusion (IR) of the whole bilateral carotid artery. Here, we found that açai berry was able to reduce VaD-induced behavioral alteration, as well as hippocampal death, in CA1 and CA3 regions. These effects are probably due to the modulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) and Beclin-1, suggesting a possible crosstalk between these molecular pathways. In conclusion, the protective effects of açai berry could be a good supplementation in the future for the management of vascular dementia.

Nutraceutical potential of Amazonian oilseeds in modulating the immune system against COVID-19 - A narrative review

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 disease, medical and scientific communities are facing a challenge to contain its spread, develop effective treatments, and reduce its sequelae. Together with the therapeutical treatments, the use of dietary bioactive compounds represents a promising and cost-effective strategy to modulate immunological responses. Amazonian oilseeds are great sources of bioactive compounds, thus representing not only a dietary source of nutrients but also of substances with great interest for human health. This narrative review compiled the available evidence regarding the biochemical properties of some Amazonian oilseeds, especially Brazil nut, Açaí berry, Bacaba, Peach palm, Sapucaya and Tucuma fruits, on human health and its immune system. These effects were discussed from an etiological and pathophysiological perspective, emphasizing their potential role as a co-adjuvant strategy against COVID-19. Besides this, the cost associated with these strategies hinders their applicability in many nations, especially low-income countries and communities living in social insecurity.

Phytochemicals as Modulators of Paraoxonase-1 in Health and Diseases

Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), atherosclerosis, chronic liver disease, and neurodegenerative diseases are major causes of mortality. These diseases have gained much attention due to their complications, and therefore novel approaches with fewer side effects are an important research topic. Free radicals and oxidative stress are involved in the molecular mechanisms of several diseases. Antioxidants can scavenge free radicals and mitigate their adverse effects. One of the most important antioxidant enzymes are paraoxonases (PONs). These enzymes perform a wide range of physiological activities ranging from drug metabolism to detoxification of neuroleptics. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is produced in the liver and then transferred to the bloodstream. It has been demonstrated that PON1 could have beneficial effects in numerous diseases such as atherosclerosis, CVD, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative diseases by modulating relevant signalling pathways involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. These pathways include peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and protein kinase B/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (AKT/NF-κB)-dependent signalling pathways. Increasing PON1 could potentially have protective effects and reduce the incidence of various diseases by modulating these signalling pathways. Several studies have reported that dietary factors are able to modulate PON1 expression and activity. This review aimed at summarizing the state of the art on the effects of dietary phytochemicals on PON1 enzyme activity and the relevant signalling pathways in different diseases.

Amazonian Guarana- and Açai-Conjugated Extracts Improve Scratched Fibroblast Healing and Eisenia fetida Surgical Tail Amputation by Modulating Oxidative Metabolism

Background

Previous studies have suggested that guarana (Paullinia cupana) and açai (Euterpe oleracea) have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and proliferative properties, indicating their potential therapeutic action in wound healing. We produced a conjugated guarana-açai (GA) extract and tested its healing action on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) subjected to tail amputation by surgical incision.

Methods

Extract from roasted guarana seeds and fresh açai seed berries was produced. The antioxidant and genoprotective capacity of GA extract was tested. The concentration with the most remarkable healing potential was used in subsequent tests. The last three posterior segments of the clitellate earthworm tail reared under standardized conditions were surgically amputated. Next, topical PBS or GA extract was applied to the surgical wound. The rate of cell migration and tissue regeneration at the local wound site was histologically evaluated after the procedure. Expression of the SOX4 gene that acts in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition was determined by RT-qPCR.

Results

Sixteen bioactive molecules, including some previously described substances, were identified. All tested concentrations exhibited antioxidant and genoprotective effects. The GA extract accelerated the healing processes as observed through macroscopic and histological analyses and increased expression of SOX4.

Conclusion

The GA extract has a potential role in the healing of surgically induced wounds.

Neuroprotective activities of acai berries (Euterpe sp.): A review

Dietary interventions rich in fruits and vegetables in aging people can reverse or mitigate age-related cognitive declines, delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), and provide long-term health dividends. The novel food, popularly known as "Acai", is a berry belonging to the Euterpe genus of tropical palms trees and natively found in South America. Euterpe oleracea has been given much attention among scientists due to its high antioxidant capacity compared to other fruits and berries. Additionally, acai pulp composition analysis found that it contains various biologically active phytochemicals. In this review, we focused on current evidence relating to acai berry neuroprotection mechanisms and its efficacy in preventing or reversing neurodegeneration and age-related cognitive decline. A number of studies have illustrated the potential neuroprotective properties of acai berries. They have shown that their chemical extracts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and maintain proteins, calcium homeostasis, and mitochondrial function. Moreover, acai berry extract offers other neuromodulatory mechanisms, including anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anti-aging properties. This neuromodulation gives valuable insights into the acai pulp and its considerable pharmacological potential on critical brain areas involved in memory and cognition. The isolated chemical matrix of acai berries could be a new substitute in research for NDD medicine development. However, due to the limited number of investigations, there is a need for further efforts to establish studies that enable progressing to clinical trials to consequently prove and ratify the therapeutic potential of this berry for several incurable NDDs.

Açai Berry Mitigates Parkinson's Disease Progression Showing Dopaminergic Neuroprotection via Nrf2-HO1 Pathways

The current pharmacological treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD) is focused on symptom alleviation rather than disease prevention. In this study, we look at a new strategy to neuroprotection that focuses on nutrition, by a supplementation with Açai berry in an experimental models of PD. Daily orally supplementation with Açai berry dissolved in saline at the dose of 500 mg/kg considerably reduced motor and non-motor symptom and neuronal cell death of the dopaminergic tract induced by 4 injections of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Furthermore, Açai berry administration reduced α-synuclein aggregation in neurons, enhanced tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporter activities, and avoided dopamine depletion. Moreover, Açai berry administration was able to reduce astrogliosis and microgliosis as well as neuronal death. Its beneficial effects could be due to its bioactive phytochemical components that are able to stimulate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) by counteracting the oxidative stress and neuroinflammation that are the basis of this neurodegenerative disease.

Increase in the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Euterpe oleracea Martius Oil Complexed in β-Cyclodextrin and Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are aerobic products generated during cellular respiration, but in the case of oxidative stress, they become key factors in the development of inflammatory processes and chronic diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. In this work, Euterpe oleracea oil (EOO), as well as the complexes produced by slurry (S) and kneading (K), were analyzed for antioxidant capacity in vitro, while only the β-cyclodextrin complex obtained by kneading (EOO-βCD-K), which showed better complexation, was selected for anti-inflammatory assays in vivo. In the scavenging activity of OH·, the hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complex obtained by kneading (EOO-HPβCD-K) exhibited an activity 437% higher than the pure oil. In the paw edema assay, EOO-βCD-K reduced edema by 200% and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity by 112%. In an air pouch model, this treatment showed a reduction in leukocyte, MPO, and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels; meanwhile those of glutathione and IL-10 were increased, demonstrating its ability to potentiate the anti-inflammatory effect of EOO.

Biological Potential of Products Obtained from Palm Trees of the Genus Syagrus

Medicinal plants have been used for centuries by communities worldwide, as they have diverse biological properties and are effective against numerous diseases. The genus Syagrus stands out for its versatility and for so many activities presented by these palm trees, mainly due to its rich chemical and fatty acid compositions. The genus has antibacterial potential, has antibiofilm, antiparasitic, antioxidant, prebiotic, antiulcerogenic, anticholinesterase, and hypoglycemic activities, and can produce biodiesel, amid others. Among all species, Syagrus coronata and Syagrus romanzoffiana stand out, presenting the greatest number of activities and applications. The secondary metabolites obtained from these palm trees present high activity even in low concentrations and can be used against infections and chronic diseases. Furthermore, these plants have been used in some communities for years and have presented healing properties, especially in inflammatory processes. Therefore, the Syagrus genus proves to be promising, which shows a lot of therapeutic potential.

Tropical Fruits and Their Co-Products as Bioactive Compounds and Their Health Effects: A Review

Tropical and subtropical fruits are recognized as a source of a high content of bioactive compounds and health promoting properties due to their nutritional composition. These beneficial health effects are related to the content of several of these bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics. Many of these compounds are common in different tropical fruits, such as epicatechin in mango, pineapple, and banana, or catechin in pineapple, cocoa or avocado. Many studies of tropical fruits had been carried out, but in this work an examination is made in the current literature of the flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics content of some tropical fruits and their coproducts, comparing the content in the same units, as well as examining the role that these compounds play in health benefits.

Increased acute blood flow induced by the aqueous extract of Euterpe oleracea Mart. fruit pulp in rats in vivo is not related to the direct activation of endothelial cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scientific evidence supports the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-lipidemic properties of Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí), which all converge to reduce cardiovascular risks. Macerating the pulp of açaí fruit produces a viscous aqueous extract (AE) rich in flavonoids that is commonly used in food production. In addition to nutritional aspects, cardiovascular benefits are attributed to AE by traditional medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Evaluation of AE impact on blood flow in vivo in rats and investigation of the mechanism underlying this response in vitro in rat endothelial cells (RECs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the measurement of acute blood flow, a perivascular ultrasound probe was used in Wistar rats. The in vitro assays employed REC to evaluate: concentration (1-1000 μg/mL) and time response (2-180 min) of AE in MTT cell viability assays; nitric oxide (NO) levels measurement and intracellular calcium handling using DAF-2DA and Fluo-4-AM, respectively; cellular biopterin content by HPLC; activation of Akt pathway using western blot analysis. For the chemical analyses of AE, stock solutions of the standards (+)catechin and quercetin were used for obtaining linear calibration curves. Identification and quantification of flavonoids in AE were based on comparisons with the retention times, increase in peak area determine by co-injection of AE with standards, UV-Vis scan and standard curves of known spectra. Results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Tukey's post-test (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Although in vivo data have revealed the participation of NO in increasing of acute blood flow on abdominal aorta, in vitro analysis demonstrated that vasodilatation AE-induced is not related to its direct action on endothelial cells inducing eNOS activation. Besides, we demonstrated in isolated endothelial cells that highest concentrations of AE caused a reduction in NO levels, effect that could be partly justified by inhibition of Akt phosphorylation which, in turn, could decrease NOS activation. The involvement of cell transduction pathways involving variations in intracellular calcium and biopterins concentration were discarded. The participation of catechin and quercetin, identified in AE, was postulated to induce the responses of AE in REC.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the responses in vitro, vasodilation prevailed in vivo, probably by activating intermediate pathways, validating a potential beneficial effect of AE in reducing cardiovascular risks.

Inhibitory Effect of Catechin-Rich Açaí Seed Extract on LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Cells and Carrageenan-Induced Paw Edema

Açaí berry is a fruit from the tree commonly known as açaízeiro (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) originated from the Amazonian region and widely consumed in Brazil. There are several reports of the anti-inflammatory activity of its pulp and few data about the seed's potential in inflammation control. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of catechin-rich açaí extract on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and carrageenan-induced paw edema. The treatment with E. oleracea ethyl acetate extract (EO-ACET) was used in an in vitro model performed with macrophages stimulated by LPS, in which pro-inflammatory markers were evaluated, and in an in vivo model of acute inflammation, in which edema inhibition was evaluated. EO-ACET showed an absence of endotoxins, and did not display cytotoxic effects in RAW 264.7 cells. LPS-stimulated cells treated with EO-ACET displayed low levels of nitrite and interleukins (IL's), IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12, when compared to untreated cells. EO-ACET treatment was able to inhibit carrageenan-induced paw edema at 500 and 1000 mg/kg, in which no acute inflammatory reaction or low mast cell counts were observed by histology at the site of inoculation of λ-carrageenan. These findings provide more evidence to support further studies with E. oleracea seeds for the treatment of inflammation.

Antiangiogenic and Antioxidant In Vitro Properties of Hydroethanolic Extract from açaí (Euterpe oleracea) Dietary Powder Supplement

The Euterpe oleracea fruit (açaí) is a promising source of polyphenols with health-promoting properties. To our knowledge, few studies have focused on the influence of açaí phytochemicals on angiogenesis, with a significant impact on cancer. This study aimed at investigating the phytochemical profile of a purple açaí hydroethanolic extract (AHE) obtained from a commercial dietary powder supplement by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and evaluate its in vitro effects on distinct angiogenic steps during vessel growth and on oxidative markers in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). The phenolic profile of AHE revealed the presence of significant levels of anthocyanins, mainly cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, and other flavonoids with promising health effects. The in vitro studies demonstrated that AHE exerts antiangiogenic activity with no cytotoxic effect. The AHE was able to decrease HMEC-1 migration and invasion potential, as well as to inhibit the formation of capillary-like structures. Additionally, AHE increased antioxidant defenses by upregulating superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymatic activities, accompanied by a reduction in the production of reactive oxygen species. These data bring new insights into the potential application of angiogenic inhibitors present in AHE on the development of novel therapeutic approaches for angiogenesis-dependent diseases.

Plant Phenolics and Extracts in Animal Models of Preeclampsia and Clinical Trials-Review of Perspectives for Novel Therapies

The current health requirements set the direction in pharmacological research, especially as regards diseases that require improvement of existing therapeutic regimens. Such diseases include preeclampsia, which is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy during which there occurs progressive increasing activation of the immune system through elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and antiangiogenic factors, which is dangerous for the mother and fetus. A promising field of research for new drugs to treat this disease is the study of natural phenolic compounds of plant origin and herbal extracts, which are complex matrices of chemical compounds with broad biological activities. Many plant substances with anti‑inflammatory and anti‑hypertensive properties are known, but studies in animal models of preeclampsia and clinical trials concerning this disease constitute a new and developing research trend of significant medical importance. The aim of our research review was to identify and analyze the results of already available studies on baicalin, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, punicalagin, quercetin, resveratrol, salvianolic acid A (danshensu), silibinin, and vitexin, as well as plant extracts from Brassica oleracea L., Euterpe oleracea Mart., Moringa oleifera Lam., Punica granatum L., Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertner, Thymus schimperi Ronniger, Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Miq. ex Havil., and Vitis vinifera L., which are potential and promising candidates for further research and for potential new therapies.