Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) Iridoid and Anthocyanin Extract Enhances PPAR-α, PPAR-γ Expression and Reduces I/M Ratio in Aorta, Increases LXR-α Expression and Alters Adipokines and Triglycerides Levels in Cholesterol-Rich Diet Rabbit Model

Effects of Cornus mas L. Supplementation on Anthropometric and Metabolic Characteristics in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

The high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is threatening the health of people around the world. The fruit of Cornus mas L. (CM) is rich in bioactive compounds that have the potential to promote health and improve chronic diseases associated with MetS. This systematic review aimed to compile data on the effects of CM supplementation on anthropometric and metabolic characteristics in patients with MetS. Scopus, Web of Sciences, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library were employed to identify the eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of CM on anthropometric parameters, glycemia, and lipid profiles up to December 2024. The included articles were subjected to assessment using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. A heterogeneity test was conducted on the included trials using the I 2 statistic. A random-effects model was applied based on the results of the heterogeneity tests, and the pooled data were presented as the mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of five RCTs were included in the analysis, with a total sample size of 313 human subjects. The results indicated that CM had a significant effect on lowering body mass index (BMI) (MD: -0.31; 95% CI: -0.46 to -0.16, p < 0.0001, I 2 = 15%), hip circumference (HC) (MD: -0.84; 95% CI: -1.31 to -0.37, p = 0.0005, I 2 = 19%), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (MD: -4.85; 95% CI: -7.80 to -1.91, p = 0.001, I 2 = 24%), and total cholesterol (TC) levels (MD: -13.40; 95% CI: -18.93 to -7.87, p < 0.00001, I 2 = 30%). Furthermore, a notable elevation in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) was observed in CM interventions (MD: 2.08; 95% CI: 0.03-4.13, p = 0.05, I 2 = 0%). Compared to the control group, the reduction in insulin (MD: -3.20; 95% CI: -5.25 to -1.15, p = 0.002, I 2 = 83%), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) (MD: -0.36; 95% CI: -0.67 to -0.04, p = 0.03, I 2 = 89%), triglyceride (TG) (MD: -36.47, 95% CI: -62.03 to -10.91, p = 0.005, I 2 = 76%), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (MD: -15.35; 95% CI: -25.63 to -5.06, p = 0.003, I 2 = 52%) were observed in CM interventions, although there was considerable heterogeneity in the results. In conclusion, the present findings suggest the beneficial effects of CM supplementation on MetS and related disorders. However, in order to establish a robust link between CM and MetS, further trials with adequate sample sizes are warranted.

Effect of dietary anthocyanins on the risk factors related to metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis aims to systematically investigate whether dietary anthocyanin supplementation can reduce metabolic syndrome (MetS)-related risk factors: abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia (low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and hypertriglyceridemia), hypertension, and hyperglycemia by conducting a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

A systematic search of 5 electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Embase) was conducted from inception until April 25, 2024. A total of 1213 studies were identified, of which randomized controlled trials involving subjects with MetS-related factors, comparing dietary anthocyanin supplementation with placebo, and reporting results on anthropometric, physiological, and metabolic markers relevant to this study were selected. Depending on the heterogeneity of the included studies, a fixed-effect model was applied for low heterogeneity (I2 < 50%), whereas a random-effects model was employed when substantial heterogeneity was present (I2 ≥ 50%). The weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 29 randomized controlled trials with 2006 participants. The results showed that dietary anthocyanins significantly improved various lipid and glycemic markers: HDL-C: increased by 0.05 mmol/L (95% CI: 0.01 to 0.10, p = 0.026), LDL-C: decreased by 0.18 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.28 to -0.08, p = 0.000), Triglycerides (TGs): reduced by 0.11 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.20 to -0.02, p = 0.021), Total cholesterol (TC): lowered by 0.34 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.49 to -0.18, p = 0.000), Fasting blood glucose (FBG): reduced by 0.29 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.46 to -0.12, p = 0.001), Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): decreased by 0.43% (95% CI: -0.74 to -0.13, p = 0.005). Weight: (WMD: -0.12 kg, 95% CI: -0.45 to 0.21, p = 0.473), Body mass index (BMI): (WMD: -0.12 kg/m2, 95% CI: -0.26 to 0.03, p = 0.12), Overall WC: (WMD: 0.18 cm, 95% CI: -0.51 to 0.87, p = 0.613), Systolic blood pressure (SBP): (WMD: -0.12 mmHg, 95% CI: -1.06 to 0.82, p = 0.801), Diastolic blood pressure (DBP): (WMD: 0.61 mmHg, 95% CI: -0.03 to 1.25, p = 0.061), Insulin levels: (WMD: -0.02 mU/L, 95% CI: -0.44 to 0.40, p = 0.932), HOMA-IR: (WMD: -0.11, 95% CI: -0.51 to 0.28, p = 0.573). Additionally, a 100 mg/day dosage of anthocyanins significantly reduced: Waist circumference (WC): by 0.55 cm (95% CI: -1.09 to -0.01, p = 0.047). Subgroup analyses based on intervention duration, anthocyanin dosage, health status, formulation, dosage frequency, physical activity levels, and baseline levels of corresponding markers revealed varying significances, particularly in relation to blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

Dietary anthocyanins effectively improve low HDL cholesterol, hypertriglyceridemia, and hyperglycemia, making them a promising adjunct for managing MetS. However, it is important to note that dietary anthocyanin interventions may raise systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) depending on intervention dose, duration, participant health status, and formulation. Clinicians should fully consider these effects when recommending anthocyanin supplementation. Further long-term, well-designed, large-scale clinical trials are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Anthocyanins in Vascular Health and Disease: Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Potential

ABSTRACT

Unhealthy lifestyles have placed a significant burden on individuals' cardiovascular health. Anthocyanins are water-soluble flavonoid pigments found in a wide array of common foods and fruits. Anthocyanins have the potential to contribute to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease by improving lipid profiles and vascular function, reducing blood glucose levels and blood pressure, and inhibiting inflammation. These actions have been demonstrated in numerous clinical and preclinical studies. At the cellular and molecular level, anthocyanins and their metabolites could protect endothelial cells from senescence, apoptosis, and inflammation by activating the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthases, silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), or nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2 pathways and inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B, Bax, or P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Furthermore, anthocyanins prevent vascular smooth muscle cell from platelet-derived growth factor -induced or tumor necrosis factor-α-induced proliferation and migration by inhibiting the focal adhesion kinase and extracellular regulated protein kinases signaling pathways. Anthocyanins could also attenuate vascular inflammation by reducing the formation of oxidized lipids, preventing leukocyte adhesion and infiltration of the vessel wall, and macrophage phagocytosis of deposited lipids through reducing the expression of cluster of differentiation 36 and increasing the expression of ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1 and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1. At the same time, anthocyanins could lower the risk of thrombosis by inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation through down-regulating P-selectin, transforming growth factor-1, and CD40L. Thus, the development of anthocyanin-based supplements or derivative drugs could provide new therapeutic approaches to the prevention and treatment of vascular diseases.

Docking analysis of phenolic acid and flavonoids with selected TAS2R receptors and in vitro experiment

Cornelian cherry fruits contain a wide range of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other secondary metabolites. Selected flavonoids may inhibit the perceiving of bitterness, however, the full mechanism with all TAS2R bitter taste receptors is not known. The aim of the study was to determine the inhibitory effect of Cornus mas phenolics against the bitterness receptors TAS2R13 and TAS2R3 through functional in vitro assays and coupling studies. The overall effect was validated by analysing the inhibition of the receptors activity in cells treated with tested cornelian cherry extracts. The strength of interaction with both TAS2R receptors varied between studied compounds with different binding affinity. Most compounds bonded with the TAS2R3 receptor through a long-distant hydrophobic interaction with Trp89A and π-π orbital overlapping-between phenolic and tryptophane aromatic rings. For TAS2R13 observed were various mechanisms of interaction with the compounds. Nonetheless, naringin and quercetin had most similar binding affinity to chloroquine and denatonium-the model agonists for the receptor.

Comparison of the Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Properties of Extracts from Different Cultivars of Cornus mas L

Cornus mas L. is a rich source of vitamin C and polyphenols. Due to their health-benefit properties, C. mas L. extracts have been used in, e.g., dermatology and cosmetology, and as a food supplement. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and its co-activator (PGC-1α) are now suspected to be the main target of active substances from C. mass extracts, especially polyphenols. Moreover, the PPARγ pathway is involved in the development of different diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), cancers, skin irritation, and inflammation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the PPARγ pathway activation by the most popular water and ethanol extracts from specific C. mas L. cultivars in an in vitro model of the human normal fibroblast (BJ) cell line. We analyzed the content of biologically active compounds in the extracts using the UPLC-DAD-MS technique and revealed the presence of many polyphenols, including gallic, quinic, protocatechuic, chlorogenic, and ellagic acids as well as iridoids, with loganic acid being the predominant component. In addition, the extracts contained cyanidin 3-O-galactoside, pelargonidin 3-O-glucoside, and quercetin 3-glucuronide. The water-ethanol dark red extract (DRE) showed the strongest antioxidant activity. Cytotoxicity was assessed in a normal skin cell line, and positive effects of all the extracts with concentrations ranging from 10 to 1000 µg/mL on the cells were shown. Our data show that the studied extracts activate the PPARγ/PGC-1α molecular pathway in BJ cells and, through this mechanism, initiate antioxidant response. Moreover, the activation of this molecular pathway may increase insulin sensitivity in DM2 and reduce skin irritation.

Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) Fruit Extract Lowers SREBP-1c and C/EBPα in Liver and Alters Various PPAR-α, PPAR-γ, LXR-α Target Genes in Cholesterol-Rich Diet Rabbit Model

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits, abundant in iridoids and anthocyanins, are natural products with proven beneficial impacts on the functions of the cardiovascular system and the liver. This study aims to assess and compare whether and to what extent two different doses of resin-purified cornelian cherry extract (10 mg/kg b.w. or 50 mg/kg b.w.) applied in a cholesterol-rich diet rabbit model affect the levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα), and various liver X receptor-α (LXR-α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) target genes. Moreover, the aim is to evaluate the resistive index (RI) of common carotid arteries (CCAs) and aortas, and histopathological changes in CCAs. For this purpose, the levels of SREBP-1c, C/EBPα, ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), endothelial lipase (LIPG), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), and adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2) in liver tissue were measured. Also, the levels of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (Vaspin), and retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) in visceral adipose tissue were measured. The RI of CCAs and aortas, and histopathological changes in CCAs, were indicated. The oral administration of the cornelian cherry extract decreased the SREBP-1c and C/EBPα in both doses. The dose of 10 mg/kg b.w. increased ABCA1 and decreased FAS, CPT1A, and RBP4, and the dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. enhanced ABCG1 and AdipoR2. Mitigations in atheromatous changes in rabbits' CCAs were also observed. The obtained outcomes were compared to the results of our previous works. The beneficial results confirm that cornelian cherry fruit extract may constitute a potentially effective product in the prevention and treatment of obesity-related disorders.

Health-Promoting Properties of Anthocyanins from Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) Fruits

The cornelian cherry is a plant that annually provides fruits, drupe-type, ranging in color from yellow through pink, red, carmine, and almost black. Cornelian cherry bears abundant fruit in temperate climate conditions, which means that its dark-colored fruits can be treated as an excellent source of anthocyanins. After consuming, anthocyanins have a protective function in the human body. Raw fruit extracts and their pure isolates, rich in anthocyanins, have a wide spectrum of health-promoting properties. This review focuses on the health-promoting properties of anthocyanins from fruits of cornelian cherry, documented in research conducted in vitro, in vivo, and in humans. The results obtained so far confirm the beneficial effects of anthocyanins on the blood parameters, whose values are important in predicting and assessing the risk and progression of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. A beneficial effect on molecular and histopathological changes in target organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and liver has also been demonstrated. Anthocyanins from cornelian cherry have a strong antioxidant effect, which explains their protective effects on organs and anticancer effects. Moreover, they have antiglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The work highlights the perspectives and directions of necessary research.

Dietary Phenolic Compounds Exert Some of Their Health-Promoting Bioactivities by Targeting Liver X Receptor (LXR) and Retinoid X Receptor (RXR)

Consuming foods of vegetable origin has been shown to exert multiple health-related effects, many of them attributed to their phenolic compounds. These molecules are known for being bioactive across multiple cells and organs, with documented changes in gene expression being commonly reported. Nuclear receptors are signal transducers capable of regulating gene expression in response to endogenous and/or exogenous ligands. Liver X receptor (LXR) and retinoid X receptor (RXR) are two important nuclear receptors that can be acted on by phenolic compounds, thereby modifying gene expression and potentially exerting numerous subsequent bioactivities. The present work summarizes recent evidence of the effects of the phenolic compounds that are exerted by targeting LXR and/or RXR. The data show that, when LXR is being targeted, changes in lipid metabolism are commonly observed, due to its ability to regulate genes relevant to this process. The effects vary widely when RXR is the target since it is involved in processes like cell proliferation, vitamin D metabolism, and multiple others by forming heterodimers with other transcription factors that regulate said processes. The evidence therefore shows that phenolic compounds can exert multiple bioactivities, with a mechanism of action based, at least in part, on their ability to modulate the cell at the molecular level by acting on nuclear receptors. The data point to a promising and novel area of study that links diet and health, although various unknowns justify further experimentation to reveal the precise way in which a given phenolic can interact with a nuclear receptor.

Pioglitazone can improve liver sex hormone-binding globulin levels and lipid metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome by regulating hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive and metabolic disorder that is closely correlated with insulin resistance. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is an important carrier for regulating androgen activity and is affected by insulin level, which is related to metabolic abnormalities and long-term prognosis of PCOS. Insulin sensitizer pioglitazone can improve the SHBG level and dyslipidaemia in PCOS, but the mechanism remains unclear. We investigated liver SHBG expression, liver lipid levels, and the effects and potential mechanisms of pioglitazone on reproductive and metabolic disorders in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance (PCOS-IR). PCOS-IR was induced by letrozole and a high-fat diet. Metformin was used as a positive control. Additionally, dihydrotestosterone and oleic acid combined with palmitic acid were used to induce the HepG2 cell models with IR. The cells were exposed to pioglitazone alone or in combination with a hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF)- 4α inhibitor. Changes in biochemical characteristics were analysed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Vaginal smears were used to analyse the oestrous cycle, and ovarian histology was used to analyse the changes in ovarian morphology. The degree of IR in vivo and in vitro was measured using the hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp and glucose oxidase techniques. The levels of key anabolism-related proteins, including SHBG, HNF-4α, and peroxidase proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR-γ), were measured using western blots. Pioglitazone and metformin significantly increased the SHBG levels in the sera and livers. Compared to metformin, pioglitazone significantly improved the lipid droplet deposition, triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels, HNF-4α protein expression, and weights of the livers in the PCOS-IR rats. After applying pioglitazone with an HNF-4α inhibitor in the PCOS-IR cell models, we found that pioglitazone may increase SHBG and improve IR, TG, and TC levels by upregulating HNF-4α. Similar to metformin, pioglitazone also restored the oestrous cycle and ovarian morphology, ameliorated IR and hyperandrogenaemia in the PCOS-IR rats. Our findings hint at the value of HNF-4α in the treatment of PCOS by PIO, which could shed light on potential targets that may be used in treatments for PCOS with metabolic disorders.

Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Cytoprotective Effects of Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) Fruit Extracts

Cornus mas L. is characterized by an increased quantity of bioactive compounds, namely polyphenols, monoterpenes, organic acids, vitamin C and lipophilic compounds such as carotenoids, being anciently used in the treatment of various diseases. This paper’s objectives were to characterize the phytochemical profile of Cornus mas L. fruits and to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytoprotective effects on renal cells exposed to gentamicin. As such, two ethanolic extracts were obtained. The resulting extracts were used to assess the total polyphenols, flavonoids and carotenoids through spectral and chromatographic methods. The antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH and FRAP assays. Due to the high content of phenolic compounds analyzed in fruits and the results obtained regarding antioxidant capacity, we decided to further use the ethanolic extract to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial and cytoprotective effects on renal cells stressed with gentamicin. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods, with great results regarding Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The cytotoxic activity was assessed using MTT and Annexin-V assays. According to the findings, extract-treated cells had a higher cell viability. However, at high concentrations, viability was shown to decline, most likely due to the extract and gentamicin’s additive effects.

Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas L.) Iridoid and Anthocyanin-Rich Extract Reduces Various Oxidation, Inflammation, and Adhesion Markers in a Cholesterol-Rich Diet Rabbit Model

Atherogenesis leads to the development of atherosclerosis, a progressive chronic disease characterized by subendothelial lipoprotein retention and endothelial impairment in the arterial wall. It develops mainly as a result of inflammation and also many other complex processes, which arise from, among others, oxidation and adhesion. Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits are abundant in iridoids and anthocyanins-compounds with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. This study aimed to determine the effect of two different doses (10 mg and 50 mg per kg of body weight, respectively) of iridoid and anthocyanin-rich resin-purified Cornelian cherry extract on the markers that are important in the progress of inflammation, cell proliferation and adhesion, immune system cell infiltration, and atherosclerotic lesion development in a cholesterol-rich diet rabbit model. We used biobank blood and liver samples that were collected during the previous original experiment. We assessed the mRNA expression of MMP-1, MMP-9, IL-6, NOX, and VCAM-1 in the aorta, and the serum levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, CRP, PON-1, MCP-1, and PCT. The application of the Cornelian cherry extract at a dose of 50 mg/kg bw resulted in a significant reduction in MMP-1, IL-6, and NOX mRNA expression in the aorta and a decrease in VCAM-1, ICAM-1, PON-1, and PCT serum levels. The administration of a 10 mg/kg bw dose caused a significant decrease in serum ICAM-1, PON-1, and MCP-1. The results indicate the potential usefulness of the Cornelian cherry extract in the prevention or treatment of atherogenesis-related cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis or metabolic syndrome.

Behind the Scenes of Anthocyanins-From the Health Benefits to Potential Applications in Food, Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Fields

Anthocyanins are widespread and biologically active water-soluble phenolic pigments responsible for a wide range of vivid colours, from red (acidic conditions) to purplish blue (basic conditions), present in fruits, vegetables, and coloured grains. The pigments' stability and colours are influenced mainly by pH but also by structure, temperature, and light. The colour-stabilizing mechanisms of plants are determined by inter- and intramolecular co-pigmentation and metal complexation, driven by van der Waals, π-π stacking, hydrogen bonding, and metal-ligand interactions. This group of flavonoids is well-known to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which explains the biological effects associated with them. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the role of anthocyanins as natural colorants, showing they are less harmful than conventional colorants, with several technological potential applications in different industrial fields, namely in the textile and food industries, as well as in the development of photosensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells, as new photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy, pharmaceuticals, and in the cosmetic industry, mainly on the formulation of skin care formulations, sunscreen filters, nail colorants, skin & hair cleansing products, amongst others. In addition, we will unveil some of the latest studies about the health benefits of anthocyanins, mainly focusing on the protection against the most prevalent human diseases mediated by oxidative stress, namely cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and diabetes. The contribution of anthocyanins to visual health is also very relevant and will be briefly explored.

Partial Synthetic PPARƳ Derivative Ameliorates Aorta Injury in Experimental Diabetic Rats Mediated by Activation of miR-126-5p Pi3k/AKT/PDK 1/mTOR Expression

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is a world wild health care issue marked by insulin resistance, a risk factor for the metabolic disorder that exaggerates endothelial dysfunction, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor PPAR) agonists have therapeutically mitigated hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia in T2D patients. Therefore, we aimed to experimentally investigate the efficacy of newly designed synthetic PPARα/Ƴ partial agonists on a High-Fat Diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T2D. Female Wistar rats (200 ± 25 g body weight) were divided into four groups. The experimental groups were fed the HFD for three consecutive weeks before STZ injection (45 mg/kg/i.p) to induce T2D. Standard reference PPARƳ agonist pioglitazone and the partial synthetic PPARƳ (PIO; 20 mg/kg/BW, orally) were administered orally for 2 weeks after 72 h of STZ injection. The aorta tissue was isolated for biological ELISA, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting investigations for vascular inflammatory endothelial mediators endothelin-1 (ET-1), intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), E-selectin, and anti-inflammatory vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), as well as microRNA126-5p and p-AKT/p-Pi3k/p-PDK-1/p-mTOR, endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) immunohistochemical staining all are coupled with and histopathological examination. Our results revealed that HFD/STZ-induced T2D increased fasting blood glucose, ET-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, and VIP levels, while decreasing the expression of both microRNA126-5p and p-AKT/p-Pi3k/p-PDK-1/p-mTOR phosphorylation. In contrast, the partial synthetic PPARƳ derivative evidenced a vascular alteration significantly more than reference PIO via decreasing (ET-1), ICAM-1, E-selectin, and VIP, along with increased expression of microRNA126-5p and p-AKT/p-Pi3k/p-PDK-1/p-mTOR. In conclusion, the partial synthetic PPARƳ derivative significantly affected HFD/STZ-induced T2D with vascular complications in the rat aorta.

Effect of flavonoid intake on circulating levels of adiponectin and leptin: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to explore the effects of flavonoid intake on adiponectin and leptin levels. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched on March 1, 2021. Random-effects, subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses were conducted on 40 publications. Flavonoid intake significantly increased circulating adiponectin (0.54 μg/ml, 95% CI [0.20, 0.88], p = .002; I²  = 86.4%) and significantly reduced leptin levels (weighted mean difference: -0.79 ng/ml, 95% CI [-1.33, -0.25], p = .004; I²  = 87.7%). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that flavonoid intervention produced a significant elevation in adiponectin levels only in studies that lasted more than 12 weeks, conducted in Asian regions, were parallel-designed, involved obese or overweight participants and participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or cardiovascular diseases, used tea catechins, and used a dietary supplement intervention. A significantly negative effect on leptin levels was observed in studies conducted in Asian countries, with healthy participants and participants with T2DM, used whole food interventions, and involved participants with lower baseline leptin levels. In conclusion, flavonoid intake significantly increased circulating adiponectin and decreased leptin levels; however, study heterogeneity was very high. Future well-designed trials are required to address heterogeneous study designs and clarify the efficacy of plants in regulating adiponectin and leptin levels.

Effects of Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Bioactive Compounds from Cornus mas Fruit on Aorta Ultrastructural and Biochemical Changes in Rats on a Hyperlipid Diet-A Preliminary Study

Cornus mas L. extract (CM) presents hypolipidemic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are considered potent delivery systems and may be used to release pharmaceutical compounds at the level of injury. In our study, we used gold nanoparticles functionalized with bioactive compounds from Cornus mas L. (AuNPsCM) in an experimental model of a high-fat diet (HFD), and we assessed their effects on aorta wall but also in the serum, as compared to Cornus mas (CM) administration. Sprague Dawley female rats were fed for 9 months with an HFD. During the last month of the experiment, we randomly allocated the animals into three groups that received, by oral gavage: saline solution, CM solution (0.158 mg/mL polyphenols) or AuNPsCM solution (260 μg Au/kg/day), while a Control group received a standard diet and saline solution. At the end of the experiment, we performed an ultrasonography of the aorta and left ventricle and a histology and transmission electron microscopy of the aorta walls; we investigated the oxidative stress and inflammation in aorta homogenates and in serum and, in addition, the lipid profile. AuNPsCM presented better effects in comparison with the natural extract (CM) on lipid peroxidation (p < 0.01) and TNF-alpha (p < 0.001) in aorta homogenates. In serum, both CM and AuNPsCM decreased the triglycerides (p < 0.001) and C-reactive protein (CM, p < 0.01; AuNPsCM, p < 0.001) and increased the antioxidant protection (p < 0.001), in comparison with the HFD group. In intima, AuNPsCM produced ultrastructural lesions, with the disorganization of intima and subendothelial connective layer, whereas CM administration preserved the intima normal aspect, but with a thinned subendothelial connective layer. AuNPsCM oral administration presented certain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypolipidemic effects in an experimental model of HFD, but with a negative impact on the ultrastructure of aorta walls, highlighted by the intima disorganization.

Cornus mas L. Increases Glucose Uptake and the Expression of PPARG in Insulin-Resistant Adipocytes

Cornus mas L., also known as cornelian cherry (CM), is a species that has long been cultivated in many different countries. In numerous scientific reports, cornelian cherry is used to treat numerous diseases and conditions. The presented study evaluated the effect of red and yellow Cornus mas L. extract on insulin sensitivity in adipocytes. 3T3-L1 fibroblasts as well as human SAT-derived and VAT-derived adipocytes were differentiated in vitro, and insulin resistance was induced using palmitic acid (16:0). The effect of CM fruit extract was analyzed in terms of glucose uptake and insulin signaling gene expression. In the glucose uptake test after insulin stimulation, a significant increase in glucose uptake was demonstrated in cells treated with CM fruit extracts. Furthermore, CM fruit extracts increased the expression of insulin signaling genes in adipocytes stimulated with insulin in control cells and adipocytes treated with CM extract. Additionally, a significant increase in peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARG) expression was observed in cells supplemented with CM extract. In conclusion, studies have shown that CM fruits can overcome insulin resistance and thus they have a positive effect on cell metabolism.

Potentially Bio-Accessible Metabolites from an Extract of Cornus mas Fruit after Gastrointestinal Digestion In Vitro and Gut Microbiota Ex Vivo Treatment

Targeting pancreatic lipase and α-amylase by digestion-derived fractions of ethanolic-aqueous (60%, v/v) extract from Cornus mas fruit (CM) in relation to the control and prevention of metabolic disorders, including diabetes, was the first purpose of the present study. Taking into consideration the significance of bio-accessibility of compounds, we attempted to identify metabolites of CM after gastrointestinal digestion in vitro, as well as their kinetic changes upon gut microbiota treatment. The digestion of extract was simulated with digestive enzymes in vitro and human gut microbiota ex vivo (1 h, 3 h, 6 h, 24 h), followed by chromatographic analysis using the UHPLC-DAD-MSⁿ method. The effect of fractions from gastrointestinal digestion in vitro on the activity of pancreatic lipase and α-amylase was studied with fluorescence-based assays. The gastric and intestinal fractions obtained after in vitro digestion of CM inhibited pancreatic lipase and α-amylase. Loganic acid as the main constituent of the extract was digested in the experimental conditions in contrast to cornuside. It was found in most analytes such as salivary, gastric, intestinal, and even colon (fecal slurry, FS) fractions. In all fractions, kaempferol hexoside and reduced forms of kaempferol, such as aromadendrin, and benzoic acid were assigned. The signals of tannins were detected in all fractions. Cornusiin A was tentatively assigned in the gastric fraction. The metabolites originating from kinetic analytes have been classified mainly as phenolic acids, hydrolyzable tannins, and flavonoids. Phenolic acids (protocatechuic acid, gallic acid), tannins (digalloylglucose, tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose), and flavonoids (aromadendrin, dihydroquercetin) were detected in the late phases of digestion in fecal slurry suspension. Cornuside was found in FS analyte after 3 h incubation. It was not detected in the samples after 6 and 24 h incubation with FS. In conclusion, cornuside, aromadendrin, and phenolic acids may be potentially bio-accessible compounds of CM. The presence of plants' secondary metabolites in the intestinal fractions allows us to indicate them as responsible for decreasing glucose and lipid absorption.

PPARγ Gene Polymorphisms, Metabolic Disorders, and Coronary Artery Disease

Being activated by endogenous and exogenous ligands, nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) enhances insulin sensitivity, promotes adipocyte differentiation, stimulates adipogenesis, and has the properties of anti-atherosclerosis, anti-inflammation, and anti-oxidation. The Human PPARγ gene (PPARG) contains thousands of polymorphic loci, among them two polymorphisms (rs10865710 and rs7649970) in the promoter region and two polymorphisms (rs1801282 and rs3856806) in the exonic region were widely reported to be significantly associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Mechanistically, PPARG polymorphisms lead to abnormal expression of PPARG gene and/or dysfunction of PPARγ protein, causing metabolic disorders such as hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia, and thereby increasing susceptibility to CAD.