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Kumorkiewicz-Jamro A, Pachulicz RJ, Fitter S, Górska R, Duggan J, Vandyke K, Pukala TL, Wybraniec S, Zannettino ACW. Atriplex hortensis var. 'rubra' extracts and purified amaranthin-type pigments reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory response in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Food Chem 2025; 462:140920. [PMID: 39208732 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of direct injection ion mobility mass spectrometry (DI-IM-MS) to detect and identify betacyanin pigments in A. hortensis 'rubra' extracts was explored for the first time, with results compared to conventional LC-MS/MS analysis. The anti-inflammatory activities of leaf and seed extracts, alongside purified amaranthin and celosianin pigments, were investigated using a model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated murine macrophages. Extracts and purified pigments significantly inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 and NO by up to 90% and 70%, respectively, and reduced the expression of Il6, Il1b, Nos2, and Cox2. Leaf and seed extracts also decreased secretion of Il6 and Il1b cytokines and reduced protein levels of Nos2 and Cox2. Furthermore, extracts and purified pigments demonstrated potent dose-dependent radical scavenging activity in a cellular antioxidant activity assay (CAA) without any cytotoxic effects. Our research highlights the promising biological potential of edible, climate-resilient A. hortensis 'rubra' as a valuable source of bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kumorkiewicz-Jamro
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Department of Chemical Technology and Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, 31-155 Cracow, Poland.
| | - River J Pachulicz
- Discipline of Chemistry, School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Stephen Fitter
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Renata Górska
- Department of Chemical Technology and Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, 31-155 Cracow, Poland
| | - Jvaughn Duggan
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Kate Vandyke
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Tara L Pukala
- Discipline of Chemistry, School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Sławomir Wybraniec
- Department of Chemical Technology and Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, 31-155 Cracow, Poland
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Araujo-León JA, Sánchez-del Pino I, Ortiz-Andrade R, Hidalgo-Figueroa S, Carrera-Lanestosa A, Brito-Argáez LG, González-Sánchez A, Giácoman-Vallejos G, Hernández-Abreu O, Peraza-Sánchez SR, Xingú-López A, Aguilar-Hernández V. HPLC-Based Metabolomic Analysis and Characterization of Amaranthus cruentus Leaf and Inflorescence Extracts for Their Antidiabetic and Antihypertensive Potential. Molecules 2024; 29:2003. [PMID: 38731493 PMCID: PMC11085149 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29092003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Amaranthus cruentus flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, catechin, hesperetin, naringenin, hesperidin, and naringin), cinnamic acid derivatives (p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid), and benzoic acids (vanillic acid and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid) as antioxidants, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive agents. An analytical method for simultaneous quantification of flavonoids, cinnamic acid derivatives, and benzoic acids for metabolomic analysis of leaves and inflorescences from A. cruentus was developed with HPLC-UV-DAD. Evaluation of linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, precision, and recovery was used to validate the analytical method developed. Maximum total flavonoids contents (5.2 mg/g of lyophilized material) and cinnamic acid derivatives contents (0.6 mg/g of lyophilized material) were found in leaves. Using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, the maximum total betacyanin contents (74.4 mg/g of lyophilized material) and betaxanthin contents (31 mg/g of lyophilized material) were found in inflorescences. The leaf extract showed the highest activity in removing DPPH radicals. In vitro antidiabetic activity of extracts was performed with pancreatic α-glucosidase and intestinal α-amylase, and compared to acarbose. Both extracts exhibited a reduction in enzyme activity from 57 to 74%. Furthermore, the in vivo tests on normoglycemic murine models showed improved glucose homeostasis after sucrose load, which was significantly different from the control. In vitro antihypertensive activity of extracts was performed with angiotensin-converting enzyme and contrasted to captopril; both extracts exhibited a reduction of enzyme activity from 53 to 58%. The leaf extract induced a 45% relaxation in an ex vivo aorta model. In the molecular docking analysis, isoamaranthin and isogomphrenin-I showed predictive binding affinity for α-glucosidases (human maltase-glucoamylase and human sucrase-isomaltase), while catechin displayed binding affinity for human angiotensin-converting enzyme. The data from this study highlights the potential of A. cruentus as a functional food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Alfredo Araujo-León
- Unidad de Biología Integrativa, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico; (J.A.A.-L.); (L.G.B.-A.)
| | - Ivonne Sánchez-del Pino
- Unidad de Recursos Naturales, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico;
| | - Rolffy Ortiz-Andrade
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), Mérida 97069, Yucatán, Mexico;
| | - Sergio Hidalgo-Figueroa
- CONAHCyT-División de Biología Molecular, Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica A.C., San Luis Potosí 78216, San Luis Potosí, Mexico;
| | - Areli Carrera-Lanestosa
- División Académica de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT), Villahermosa 86280, Tabasco, Mexico;
| | - Ligia Guadalupe Brito-Argáez
- Unidad de Biología Integrativa, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico; (J.A.A.-L.); (L.G.B.-A.)
| | - Avel González-Sánchez
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), Mérida 97203, Yucatán, Mexico; (A.G.-S.); (G.G.-V.)
| | - Germán Giácoman-Vallejos
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), Mérida 97203, Yucatán, Mexico; (A.G.-S.); (G.G.-V.)
| | - Oswaldo Hernández-Abreu
- Centro de Investigación de Ciencia y Tecnología Aplicada de Tabasco, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT), Cunduacán 86690, Tabasco, Mexico;
| | - Sergio R. Peraza-Sánchez
- Unidad de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico; (S.R.P.-S.); (A.X.-L.)
| | - Andrés Xingú-López
- Unidad de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico; (S.R.P.-S.); (A.X.-L.)
| | - Víctor Aguilar-Hernández
- Unidad de Biología Integrativa, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán (CICY), Mérida 97205, Yucatán, Mexico; (J.A.A.-L.); (L.G.B.-A.)
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Wang Y, Adekolurejo OO, Wang B, McDermott K, Do T, Marshall LJ, Boesch C. Bioavailability and excretion profile of betacyanins - Variability and correlations between different excretion routes. Food Chem 2024; 437:137663. [PMID: 37879158 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.137663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The present study addresses the knowledge gap in betalain bioavailability, transformation and excretion. Analysis of renal and fecal excretion profiles in humans after consumption of beetroot revealed very low bioavailability (renal recovery of 0.13 %) and fast elimination of pigments (renal elimination rate constant of 0.16 h-1), while the majority of betalains underwent severe depletion during GI transit, evidenced by decarboxylation, deglucosidation and dehydrogenation. Betacyanin metabolite levels in human urine were positively associated with those in stools (p < 0.05), indicating significant impact of pigment metabolism in the gut on their bioavailability. In addition, the current study revealed large inter-individual and compositional variabilities of pigment after colonic fermentation compared with systemic metabolism, likely attributed to the increasing complexity of intestinal environment with diverse gut microbiota. To conclude, intestinal uptake and systemic metabolism of betacyanins are intimately associated with their intestinal biotransformation, with gut microbiota serving as a crucial factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Wang
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Opeyemi O Adekolurejo
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom; School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Binying Wang
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Katie McDermott
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Thuy Do
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, LS2 9LU, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa J Marshall
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Boesch
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
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Restivo I, Giardina IC, Barone R, Cilla A, Burgio S, Allegra M, Tesoriere L, Attanzio A. Indicaxanthin prevents eryptosis induced by cigarette smoke extract by interfering with active Fas-mediated signaling. Biofactors 2024. [PMID: 38520710 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
A physiological mechanism of programmed cell death called eryptosis occurs in aged or damaged red blood cells (RBCs). Dysregulated eryptosis contributes to abnormal microcirculation and prothrombotic risk. Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) induces a p38 MAPK-initiated, Fas-mediated eryptosis, activating the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC). Indicaxanthin (Ind) from cactus pear fruits, is a bioavailable dietary phytochemical in humans and it is able to incorporate into RBCs enhancing their defense against numerous stimuli. This in vitro work shows that Ind, at concentrations that mimic plasma concentrations after a fruit meal, protects erythrocytes from CSE-induced eryptosis. CSE from commercial cigarettes was prepared in aqueous solution using an impinger air sampler and nicotine content was determined. RBCs were treated with CSE for 3 h in the absence or presence of increasing concentrations of Ind (from 1 to 5 μM). Cytofluorimetric measurements indicated that Ind reduced CSE-induced phosphatidylserine externalization and ceramide formation in a concentration-dependent manner. Confocal microscopy visualization and coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that Ind prevented both CSE-triggered Fas aggregation and FasL/FADD/caspase 8 recruitment in the membrane, indicating inhibition of DISC assembly. Ind inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, caspase-8/caspase-3 cleavage, and caspase-3 activity induced by CSE. Finally, Ind reduced CSE-induced ATP depletion and restored aminophospholipid translocase activity impaired by CSE treatment. In conclusion, Ind concentrations comparable to nutritionally relevant plasma concentrations, can prevent Fas-mediated RBC death signaling induced by CSE, which suggests that dietary intake of cactus pear fruits may limit the deleterious effects of cigarette smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignazio Restivo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ilenia Concetta Giardina
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosario Barone
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Anatomy, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Cilla
- Nutrition and Food Science Area, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Valencia, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Stefano Burgio
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Anatomy, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Allegra
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Tesoriere
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Attanzio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Pasdaran A, Zare M, Hamedi A, Hamedi A. A Review of the Chemistry and Biological Activities of Natural Colorants, Dyes, and Pigments: Challenges, and Opportunities for Food, Cosmetics, and Pharmaceutical Application. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202300561. [PMID: 37471105 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202300561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Natural pigments are important sources for the screening of bioactive lead compounds. This article reviewed the chemistry and therapeutic potentials of over 570 colored molecules from plants, fungi, bacteria, insects, algae, and marine sources. Moreover, related biological activities, advanced extraction, and identification approaches were reviewed. A variety of biological activities, including cytotoxicity against cancer cells, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, anti-microbial, antiviral, and anti-protozoal activities, have been reported for different pigments. Considering their structural backbone, they were classified as naphthoquinones, carotenoids, flavonoids, xanthones, anthocyanins, benzotropolones, alkaloids, terpenoids, isoprenoids, and non-isoprenoids. Alkaloid pigments were mostly isolated from bacteria and marine sources, while flavonoids were mostly found in plants and mushrooms. Colored quinones and xanthones were mostly extracted from plants and fungi, while colored polyketides and terpenoids are often found in marine sources and fungi. Carotenoids are mostly distributed among bacteria, followed by fungi and plants. The pigments isolated from insects have different structures, but among them, carotenoids and quinone/xanthone are the most important. Considering good manufacturing practices, the current permitted natural colorants are: Carotenoids (canthaxanthin, β-carotene, β-apo-8'-carotenal, annatto, astaxanthin) and their sources, lycopene, anthocyanins, betanin, chlorophyllins, spirulina extract, carmine and cochineal extract, henna, riboflavin, pyrogallol, logwood extract, guaiazulene, turmeric, and soy leghemoglobin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardalan Pasdaran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Zare
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Student research committee, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azar Hamedi
- School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azadeh Hamedi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Fernando GSN, Sergeeva NN, Vagkidis N, Chechik V, Marshall LJ, Boesch C. Differential Effects of Betacyanin and Betaxanthin Pigments on Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Murine Macrophages. Mol Nutr Food Res 2023; 67:e2200583. [PMID: 37203590 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202200583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
SCOPE Betalain pigments are increasingly highlighted for their bioactive and anti-inflammatory properties, although research is lacking to demonstrate contributions of individual betalains. The work herein aimed to compare effects of four main betalains on inflammatory and cell-protective markers and to highlight potential structure-related relationships of the two main subgroups: betacyanins vs betaxanthins. METHODS AND RESULTS Murine RAW 264.7 macrophages were stimulated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide following incubation with betacyanins (betanin, neobetanin) and betaxanthins (indicaxanthin, vulgaxanthin I) in concentrations from 1 to 100 µM. All betalains suppressed expression of pro-inflammatory markers IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS, and COX-2 with tendency for stronger effects of betacyanins compared to betaxanthins. In contrast, HO-1 and gGCS showed mixed and only moderate induction, while more emphasized effects were observed for betacyanins. While all betalains suppressed mRNA levels of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX-2), a superoxide generating enzyme, only betacyanins were able to counteract hydrogen peroxide induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, in alignment with their radical scavenging potential. Furthermore, betaxanthins exerted pro-oxidant properties, elevating ROS production beyond hydrogen peroxide stimulation. CONCLUSION In summary, all betalains display anti-inflammatory properties, although only betacyanins demonstrate radical scavenging capacities, indicating potential differing responses under oxidative stress conditions, which requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganwarige Sumali N Fernando
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, 81100, Sri Lanka
| | - Natalia N Sergeeva
- School of Design and the Leeds Institute of Textile and Colour, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Nikolaos Vagkidis
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, York YO10 5DD, Heslington, UK
| | - Victor Chechik
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, York YO10 5DD, Heslington, UK
| | - Lisa J Marshall
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Christine Boesch
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
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Saito S, Nishihara M, Kohakura M, Kimura K, Yashiro T, Takasawa S, Arimura GI. Metabolic engineering of betacyanin in vegetables for anti-inflammatory therapy. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:1357-1365. [PMID: 36702621 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Betalains, which consist of the subgroups betaxanthins and betacyanins, are hydrophilic pigments that have classically been used for food colorants. Owing to their strong antioxidant property, their usefulness for application for therapeutic use is also expected. In addition, as betalains are mainly naturally available from plants of the order Caryophyllales, including beet (Beta vulgaris), metabolic engineering for betalain production in crops such as vegetables, fruits and cereals may provide new food resources useful for healthcare. Here we conducted metabolic engineering of betacyanins in tomato fruits and potato tubers. The transgenic tomato fruits and potato tubers with coexpression of betacyanin biosynthesis genes, CYP76AD1 from B. vulgaris, DOD (DOPA 4,5-dioxygenase) and 5GT (cyclo-DOPA 5-O-glucosyltransferase) from Mirabilis jalapa, under control of suitable specific promoters, possessed dark red tissues with enriched accumulation of betacyanins (betanin and isobetanin). The anti-inflammatory activity of transgenic tomato fruit extract was superior to that of wild-type fruit extract on macrophage RAW264.7 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as a result of decreased LPS-stimulated transcript levels of proinflammatory genes. These findings were in accord with the observation that administration of the transgenic tomato fruits ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis as well as body weight loss and disease activity index in mice, via suppression of DSS-stimulated transcript levels of pro-inflammatory genes, including Tnf (encoding TNF-alpha), Il6, and Ptgs2 (encoding cyclooxygenae 2). Intriguingly, given the fact that the transgenic potato tuber extract failed to enrich the anti-inflammatory activity of macrophage cells, it is likely that metabolic engineering of betacyanins will be a powerful way of increasing the anti-inflammatory property of ordinary foods such as tomato.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiori Saito
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masato Kohakura
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kimura
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Yashiro
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seidai Takasawa
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen-Ichiro Arimura
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
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Abbas EY, Ezzat MI, Ramadan NM, Eladl A, Hamed WHE, Abdel-Aziz MM, Teaima M, El Hefnawy HM, Abdel-Sattar E. Characterization and anti-aging effects of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller extracts in a D-galactose-induced skin aging model. Food Funct 2023; 14:3107-3125. [PMID: 36942614 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo03834j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller (OFI), belonging to the family Cactaceae, is widely cultivated not only for its delicious fruits but also for its health-promoting effects, which enhance the role of OFI as a potential functional food. In this study, the in vitro collagenase and elastase enzyme inhibitory effects of extracts from different parts of OFI were evaluated. The most promising extracts were formulated as creams at two concentrations (3 and 5%) to investigate their effects on a D-galactose (D-gal)-induced skin-aging mouse model. The ethanolic extracts of the peel and cladodes exhibited the highest enzyme inhibitory effects. Cream made from the extract of OFI peel (OP) (5%) and cream from OFI cladodes extract (OC) (5%) significantly decreased the macroscopic aging of skin scores. Only a higher concentration (5%) of OC showed the normalization of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) skin levels and achieved significant improvements as compared to the vitamin E group. Both OC and OP (5%) showed complete restoration of the normal skin structure and nearly normal collagen fibres upon histopathological examination. The Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-TOF-MS) metabolite profiles revealed the presence of organic acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, betalains, and fatty acids. Flavonoids were the predominant phytochemical class (23 and 22 compounds), followed by phenolic acids (14 and 17 compounds) in the ethanolic extracts from the peel and cladodes, respectively. The anti-skin-aging effects could be attributed to the synergism of different phytochemicals in both extracts. From these findings, the OFI peel and cladodes as agro-waste products are good candidates for anti-skin-aging phytocosmetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Yasser Abbas
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
| | - Marwa I Ezzat
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
| | - Nehal M Ramadan
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Horus University, New Damietta 34517, Egypt
| | - Amira Eladl
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Horus University, New Damietta 34517, Egypt
| | - Walaa H E Hamed
- Medical Histology & Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 35516, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Abdel-Aziz
- Regional Center for Mycology and Biotechnology (RCMB), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, 11651, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Teaima
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Hala Mohamed El Hefnawy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
| | - Essam Abdel-Sattar
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
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9
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Attanzio A, Restivo I, Tutone M, Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Livrea MA. Redox Properties, Bioactivity and Health Effects of Indicaxanthin, a Bioavailable Phytochemical from Opuntia ficus indica, L.: A Critical Review of Accumulated Evidence and Perspectives. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11122364. [PMID: 36552572 PMCID: PMC9774763 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11122364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytochemicals from plant foods are considered essential to human health. Known for their role in the adaptation of plants to their environment, these compounds can induce adaptive responses in cells, many of which are directed at maintaining the redox tone. Indicaxanthin is a long-known betalain pigment found in the genus Opuntia of cactus pear and highly concentrated in the edible fruits of O. ficus indica, L. whose bioactivity has been overlooked until recently. This review summarizes studies conducted so far in vitro and in vivo, most of which have been performed in our laboratory. The chemical and physicochemical characteristics of Indicaxanthin are reflected in the molecule's reducing properties and antioxidant effects and help explain its ability to interact with membranes, modulate redox-regulated cellular pathways, and possibly bind to protein molecules. Measurement of bioavailability in volunteers has been key to exploring its bioactivity; amounts consistent with dietary intake, or plasma concentration after dietary consumption of cactus pear fruit, have been used in experimental setups mimicking physiological or pathophysiological conditions, in cells and in animals, finally suggesting pharmacological potential and relevance of Indicaxanthin as a nutraceutical. In reporting experimental results, this review also aimed to raise questions and seek insights for further basic research and health promotion applications.
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Madrigal-Santillán E, Portillo-Reyes J, Madrigal-Bujaidar E, Sánchez-Gutiérrez M, Izquierdo-Vega JA, Izquierdo-Vega J, Delgado-Olivares L, Vargas-Mendoza N, Álvarez-González I, Morales-González Á, Morales-González JA. Opuntia spp. in Human Health: A Comprehensive Summary on Its Pharmacological, Therapeutic and Preventive Properties. Part 2. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11182333. [PMID: 36145735 PMCID: PMC9505094 DOI: 10.3390/plants11182333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Plants of the genus Opuntia spp are widely distributed in Africa, Asia, Australia and America. Specifically, Mexico has the largest number of wild species; mainly O. streptacantha, O. hyptiacantha, O. albicarpa, O. megacantha and O. ficus-indica. The latter being the most cultivated and domesticated species. Its main bioactive compounds include pigments (carotenoids, betalains and betacyanins), vitamins, flavonoids (isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin) and phenolic compounds. Together, they favor the different plant parts and are considered phytochemically important and associated with control, progression and prevention of some chronic and infectious diseases. Part 1 collected information on its preventive actions against atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity, hepatoprotection, effects on human infertility and chemopreventive capacity. Now, this second review (Part 2), compiles the data from published research (in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies) on its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerative, antimicrobial, antiviral potential and in the treatment of skin wounds. The aim of both reviews is to provide scientific evidences of its beneficial properties and to encourage health professionals and researchers to expand studies on the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Opuntia spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Madrigal-Santillán
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Casco de Santo Tomas”, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
- Correspondence: (E.M.-S.); (J.A.M.-G.); Tel.: +52-55-5729-6300 (ext. 62753) (E.M.-S.)
| | - Jacqueline Portillo-Reyes
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Casco de Santo Tomas”, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Eduardo Madrigal-Bujaidar
- Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Profesional A. López Mateos”, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
| | - Manuel Sánchez-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Ex-Hacienda de la Concepción, Tilcuautla, Pachuca de Soto 42080, Mexico
| | - Jeannett A. Izquierdo-Vega
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Ex-Hacienda de la Concepción, Tilcuautla, Pachuca de Soto 42080, Mexico
| | - Julieta Izquierdo-Vega
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Ex-Hacienda de la Concepción, Tilcuautla, Pachuca de Soto 42080, Mexico
| | - Luis Delgado-Olivares
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Ex-Hacienda de la Concepción, Tilcuautla, Pachuca de Soto 42080, Mexico
| | - Nancy Vargas-Mendoza
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Casco de Santo Tomas”, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Isela Álvarez-González
- Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Profesional A. López Mateos”, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
| | - Ángel Morales-González
- Escuela Superior de Cómputo, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Profesional A. López Mateos”, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
| | - José A. Morales-González
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, “Unidad Casco de Santo Tomas”, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
- Correspondence: (E.M.-S.); (J.A.M.-G.); Tel.: +52-55-5729-6300 (ext. 62753) (E.M.-S.)
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Wang Y, Fernando GSN, Sergeeva NN, Vagkidis N, Chechik V, Do T, Marshall LJ, Boesch C. Uptake and Immunomodulatory Properties of Betanin, Vulgaxanthin I and Indicaxanthin towards Caco-2 Intestinal Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081627. [PMID: 36009345 PMCID: PMC9405451 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to compare the absorption and transport patterns of three main betalains, betanin, vulgaxanthin I and indicaxanthin, into intestinal epithelial cells and to assess their distinct molecular effects on inflammatory and redox-related cell signalling in association with their radial scavenging potencies. All three betalains showed anti-inflammatory effects (5–80 μM), reflected by attenuated transcription of pro-inflammatory mediators such as cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible NO-synthase. Concomitant increases in antioxidant enzymes such as heme oxygenase-1 were only observed for betanin. Moreover, betanin uniquely demonstrated a potent dose-dependent radical scavenging activity in EPR and cell-based assays. Results also indicated overall low permeability for the three betalains with Papp of 4.2–8.9 × 10−7 cm s−1. Higher absorption intensities of vulgaxanthin and indicaxanthin may be attributed to smaller molecular sizes and greater lipophilicity. In conclusion, betanin, vulgaxanthin I and indicaxanthin have differentially contributed to lowering inflammatory markers and mitigating oxidative stress, implying the potential to ameliorate inflammatory intestinal disease. Compared with two betaxanthins, the greater efficacy of betanin in scavenging radical and promoting antioxidant response might, to some extent, compensate for its poorer absorption efficiency, as demonstrated by the Caco-2 cell model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Wang
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Ganwarige Sumali N. Fernando
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Natalia N. Sergeeva
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- School of Design, Faculty of Art, Humanities and Cultures, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | | | - Victor Chechik
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Thuy Do
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9LU, UK
| | - Lisa J. Marshall
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Christine Boesch
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-1133430268
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Abstract
In the last years, the use of natural phytochemical compounds as protective agents in the prevention and treatment of obesity and the related-metabolic syndrome has gained much attention worldwide. Different studies have shown health benefits for many vegetables such Opuntia ficus-indica and Beta vulgaris and their pigments collectively referred as betalains. Betalains exert antioxidative, anti-inflammation, lipid lowering, antidiabetic and anti-obesity effects. This review summarizes findings in the literature and highlights the therapeutic potential of betalains and their natural source as valid alternative for supplementation in obesity-related disorders treatment. Further research is needed to establish the mechanisms through which these natural pigments exert their beneficial effects and to translate the promising findings from animal models to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Calvi
- Department of Biological- Chemical- Pharmaceutical Science and Technology (STEBICEF), University of Palermo- Viale delle Scienze, Palermo, Italy.,Dipartment of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Terzo
- Department of Biological- Chemical- Pharmaceutical Science and Technology (STEBICEF), University of Palermo- Viale delle Scienze, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Amato
- Department of Biological- Chemical- Pharmaceutical Science and Technology (STEBICEF), University of Palermo- Viale delle Scienze, Palermo, Italy
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Martínez-Rodríguez P, Guerrero-Rubio MA, Henarejos-Escudero P, García-Carmona F, Gandía-Herrero F. Health-promoting potential of betalains in vivo and their relevance as functional ingredients: A review. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2022.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus-indica Fruit Ameliorates Glucose Dysmetabolism and Counteracts Insulin Resistance in High-Fat-Diet-Fed Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 11:antiox11010080. [PMID: 35052584 PMCID: PMC8773302 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity-related dysmetabolic conditions are amongst the most common causes of death globally. Indicaxanthin, a bioavailable betalain pigment from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit, has been demonstrated to modulate redox-dependent signalling pathways, exerting significant anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. In light of the strict interconnections between inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance (IR), a nutritionally relevant dose of indicaxanthin has been evaluated in a high-fat diet (HFD) model of obesity-related IR. To this end, biochemical and histological analysis, oxidative stress and inflammation evaluations in liver and adipose tissue were carried out. Our results showed that indicaxanthin treatment significantly reduced body weight, daily food intake and visceral fat mass. Moreover, indicaxanthin administration induced remarkable, beneficial effects on HFD-induced glucose dysmetabolism, reducing fasting glycaemia and insulinaemia, improving glucose and insulin tolerance and restoring the HOMA index to physiological values. These effects were associated with a reduction in hepatic and adipose tissue oxidative stress and inflammation. A decrease in RONS, malondialdehyde and NO levels, in TNF-α, CCL-2 and F4-80 gene expression, in p65, p-JNK, COX-2 and i-NOS protein levels, in crown-like structures and hepatic inflammatory foci was, indeed, observed. The current findings encourage further clinical studies to confirm the effectiveness of indicaxanthin to prevent and treat obesity-related dysmetabolic conditions.
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Metformin effect in models of inflammation is associated with activation of ATP-dependent potassium channels and inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-α production. Inflammopharmacology 2021; 30:233-241. [PMID: 34850313 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-021-00899-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic drug widely used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We have recently demonstrated that metformin exhibits activity in models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain. However, little is known about its effects in experimental models of inflammation and inflammatory pain. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the activity of metformin in experimental models of inflammation and inflammatory pain in mice, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Previous (1 h) per os (p.o.) administration of metformin (250, 500 or 1000 mg/kg) inhibited the mechanical allodynia and paw edema induced by intraplantar (i.pl.) injection of carrageenan (600 μg) and also the pleurisy induced by this stimulus (200 μg, intrapleural). In the model of mechanical allodynia and paw edema induced by carrageenan, metformin also exhibited activity when administered after (1 h) the inflammatory stimulus. Metformin (1000 mg/kg) reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α induced by i.pl. injection of carrageenan. Metformin antiallodynic effect was not affected by previous administration of naltrexone (5 or 10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) or cyproheptadine (5 or 10 mg/kg, p.o). However, this effect was abolished by previous administration of glibenclamide (20 or 40 mg/kg, p.o). In conclusion, the results demonstrate the activity of metformin in models of inflammation and inflammatory pain. In addition, the results indicate that the activity of metformin may be mediated by activation of ATP-sensitive potassium channels and reduction of production of inflammatory mediators. Altogether, these results stimulate the conduction of studies aiming to evaluate whether metformin may be repositioned in the treatment of patients with painful and inflammatory disorders.
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Akan S, Tuna Gunes N, Erkan M. Red beetroot: Health benefits, production techniques, and quality maintaining for food industry. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.15781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Selen Akan
- Faculty of Agriculture Department of Horticulture Ankara University Ankara Turkey
| | - Nurdan Tuna Gunes
- Faculty of Agriculture Department of Horticulture Ankara University Ankara Turkey
| | - Mustafa Erkan
- Faculty of Agriculture Department of Horticulture Akdeniz University Antalya Turkey
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Sadowska-Bartosz I, Bartosz G. Biological Properties and Applications of Betalains. Molecules 2021; 26:2520. [PMID: 33925891 PMCID: PMC8123435 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Betalains are water-soluble pigments present in vacuoles of plants of the order Caryophyllales and in mushrooms of the genera Amanita, Hygrocybe and Hygrophorus. Betalamic acid is a constituent of all betalains. The type of betalamic acid substituent determines the class of betalains. The betacyanins (reddish to violet) contain a cyclo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (cyclo-DOPA) residue while the betaxanthins (yellow to orange) contain different amino acid or amine residues. The most common betacyanin is betanin (Beetroot Red), present in red beets Beta vulgaris, which is a glucoside of betanidin. The structure of this comprehensive review is as follows: Occurrence of Betalains; Structure of Betalains; Spectroscopic and Fluorescent Properties; Stability; Antioxidant Activity; Bioavailability, Health Benefits; Betalains as Food Colorants; Food Safety of Betalains; Other Applications of Betalains; and Environmental Role and Fate of Betalains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Sadowska-Bartosz
- Laboratory of Analytical Biochemistry, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences, Rzeszow University, 4 Zelwerowicza Street, 35-601 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Bartosz
- Department of Bioenergetics, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences, Rzeszow University, 4 Zelwerowicza Street, 35-601 Rzeszów, Poland;
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The Phytochemical Indicaxanthin Synergistically Enhances Cisplatin-Induced Apoptosis in HeLa Cells via Oxidative Stress-Dependent p53/p21 waf1 Axis. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10070994. [PMID: 32630700 PMCID: PMC7407573 DOI: 10.3390/biom10070994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Combining phytochemicals with chemotherapics is an emerging strategy to treat cancer to overcome drug toxicity and resistance with natural compounds. We assessed the effects of indicaxanthin (Ind), a pigment obtained from Opuntia ficus-indica (L. Mill) fruit, combined with cisplatin (CDDP) against cervical cancer cells (HeLa). Measured cell viability via Trypan blue assay; cell morphology via fluorescence microscopy; apoptosis, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and cell redox balance via flow-cytometry; expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins via western blot. Cell viability assays and Chou-Talalay plot demonstrated that the combination of CDDP and Ind had synergistic cytotoxic effects. Combined treatment had significant effects (p < 0.05) on phosphatidylserine externalization, cell morphological changes, cell cycle arrest, fall in MMP, ROS production and GSH decay compared with the individual treatment groups. Bax, cytochrome c, p53 and p21waf1 were over-expressed, while Bcl-2 was downregulated. Pre-treatment with N-acetyl-l-cysteine abolished the observed synergistic effects. We also demonstrated potentiation of CDDP anticancer activity by nutritionally relevant concentrations of Ind. Oxidative stress-dependent mitochondrial cell death is the basis of the chemosensitizing effect of Ind combined with CDDP against HeLa cancer cells. ROS act as upstream signaling molecules to initiate apoptosis via p53/p21waf1 axis. Ind can be a phytochemical of interest in combo-therapy.
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Rahimi P, Mesbah-Namin SA, Ostadrahimi A, Abedimanesh S, Separham A, Asghary Jafarabadi M. Effects of betalains on atherogenic risk factors in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Food Funct 2020; 10:8286-8297. [PMID: 31723956 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo02020a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential impacts of supplementation with betalain-rich extracts of foods on some atherosclerotic risk factors in coronary artery disease patients. During an acute phase, 48 male patients received about 50 mg betalain/betacyanin, and their blood and urine samples were collected at 3, 8, and 24 hours after supplementations. Also, in a pilot randomized crossover trial, these participants were allocated to two-week interventions (a betacyanin-rich supplement of Opuntia stricta, a betalain-rich supplement of red beetroot and a placebo) with two-week washout periods. Then, their plasma samples were collected at the baseline after a two-week period. The concentrations of betanin in plasma and urine samples were determined using HPLC. Also, homocysteine and glucose levels, lipid profile, and blood pressure were analyzed. Additionally, quality of life and dietary intake were assessed. After these interventions, minimal amounts of betanin were found in plasma and about 0.13-0.93% in urine. Also, both supplements significantly decreased the concentration of homocysteine, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL. Also, betalain-rich supplements lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Nevertheless, the clinically meaningful changes were only found in the case of Hcy, LDL, and non-HDL-c concentrations. It seems that food sources of betalains can be considered as functional foods because they improve the lipid profile and levels of homocysteine, glucose, blood pressure, and quality of life to some extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Rahimi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Red Beetroot Extract Abrogates Chlorpyrifos-Induced Cortical Damage in Rats. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:2963020. [PMID: 32215171 PMCID: PMC7085382 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2963020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Organophosphorus insecticides including chlorpyrifos (CPF) are mainly used for agriculture, household, and military purposes; their application is associated with various adverse reactions in animals and humans. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effect of red beetroot methanolic extract (RBR) against CPF-induced cortical damage. Twenty-eight adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 7 in each group): the control group was administered physiological saline (0.9% NaCl), the CPF group was administered CPF (10 mg/kg), the RBR group was administered RBR (300 mg/kg), and the RBR+CPF group was treated with RBR (300 mg/kg) 1 hr before CPF (10 mg/kg) supplementation. All groups were treated for 28 days. Rats exposed to CPF exhibited a significant decrease in cortical acetylcholinesterase activity and brain-derived neurotrophic factor and a decrease in glial fibrillary acidic protein. CPF intoxication increased lipid peroxidation, inducible nitric oxide synthase expression, and nitric oxide production. This was accompanied by a decrease in glutathione content and in the activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in the cortical tissue. Additionally, CPF enhanced inflammatory response, indicated by increased levels and expression of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α. CPF triggered neuronal apoptosis by upregulating Bax and caspase-3 and downregulating Bcl-2. However, RBR reversed the induced neuronal alterations following CPF intoxication. Our findings suggest that RBR can minimize and prevent CPF neurotoxicity through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities.
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Gómez-Maqueo A, Antunes-Ricardo M, Welti-Chanes J, Cano MP. Digestive Stability and Bioaccessibility of Antioxidants in Prickly Pear Fruits from the Canary Islands: Healthy Foods and Ingredients. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E164. [PMID: 32079367 PMCID: PMC7070381 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9020164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although prickly pear fruits have become an important part of the Canary diet, their native varieties are yet to be characterized in terms of betalains and phenolic compounds. To exert potential health benefits, these antioxidants must be released from the food matrix and be stable in the gastrointestinal tract. Our aim was to characterize the betalain and phenolic profile of four prickly pear varieties from the Canary Islands (Spain) and determine their digestive stability and bioaccessibility via in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Digestive studies were performed considering the (i) importance of the edible fraction (pulps) and (ii) potential of fruit peels as by-products to obtain healthy ingredients. Betalains and phenolic profiles were analyzed by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS and HPLC-DAD-MS/QTOF. Pulps in Colorada and Fresa varieties presented high indicaxanthin and betanin content, respectively. Despite low pH in the gastric phase, betalains were stable to reach the intestinal phase, although indicaxanthin presented a higher bioaccessibility. Blanco Buenavista peels contained a distinct flavonoid profile including a new isorhamnetin-hexosyl-rhamnoside. Phenolic compounds were abundant and highly bioaccessible in fruit peels. These findings suggest that prickly pear pulps are rich in bioaccessible betalains; and that their peels could be proposed as potential by-products to obtain sustainable healthy ingredients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gómez-Maqueo
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Food Functionality, Biotechnology and Food Microbiology Department, Institute of Food Science Research (CIAL) (CSIC-UAM), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnología FEMSA, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, 64700 Monterrey NL, Mexico; (M.A.-R.); (J.W.-C.)
| | - Marilena Antunes-Ricardo
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnología FEMSA, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, 64700 Monterrey NL, Mexico; (M.A.-R.); (J.W.-C.)
| | - Jorge Welti-Chanes
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnología FEMSA, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, 64700 Monterrey NL, Mexico; (M.A.-R.); (J.W.-C.)
| | - M. Pilar Cano
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Food Functionality, Biotechnology and Food Microbiology Department, Institute of Food Science Research (CIAL) (CSIC-UAM), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnología FEMSA, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, 64700 Monterrey NL, Mexico; (M.A.-R.); (J.W.-C.)
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Sawicki T, Topolska J, Bączek N, Szawara-Nowak D, Juśkiewicz J, Wiczkowski W. Characterization of the profile and concentration of betacyanin in the gastric content, blood and urine of rats after an intragastric administration of fermented red beet juice. Food Chem 2020; 313:126169. [PMID: 31945698 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.126169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the profile and level of betacyanins in the gastric content, blood (portal and main veins) and urine of rats after an intragastric administration of fermented red beet juice with various betacyanin doses. Samples were collected within 2 h after juice administration into the stomachs, separated from the digestive tract of a living rat. In the gastric content, betacyanins administered underwent intensive degradation and changes in their profile, as a result of the conditions prevailing in the stomach and the intensity of the absorption process. Detection of 19 betacyanins (8 native compounds and 11 metabolites) in rats' physiological fluids with the HPLC-MS/MS method proves betacyanin absorption from the stomach. In addition, the study results suggest that betacyanin dose affects the rate and extent of betacyanin degradation in the gastric content, as well as the intensity of absorption, metabolism and excretion of these pigments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sawicki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
| | - Joanna Topolska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
| | - Natalia Bączek
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
| | - Dorota Szawara-Nowak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
| | - Jerzy Juśkiewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
| | - Wieslaw Wiczkowski
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str., Olsztyn 10-748, Poland.
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Rahimi P, Mesbah-Namin SA, Ostadrahimi A, Separham A, Asghari Jafarabadi M. Betalain- and betacyanin-rich supplements’ impacts on the PBMC SIRT1 and LOX1 genes expression and Sirtuin-1 protein levels in coronary artery disease patients: A pilot crossover clinical trial. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Indicaxanthin, a multi-target natural compound from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit: From its poly-pharmacological effects to biochemical mechanisms and molecular modelling studies. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 179:753-764. [PMID: 31284085 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the latest years phytochemical consumption has been associated to a decreased risk of both the onset and the development of a number of pathological conditions. In this context indicaxanthin, a betalain pigment from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit, has been the object of sound research. Explored, at first, for its mere antioxidant potential, Indicaxanthin is now regarded as a redox-active compound able to exert significant poly-pharmacological effects against several targets in a number of experimental conditions both in vivo and in vitro. This paper aims to provide an overview on the therapeutical effects of indicaxanthin, ranging from the anti-inflammatory to the neuro-modulatory and anti-tumoral ones and favored by its high bioavailability. Moreover, biochemical and molecular modelling investigations are aimed to identify the pharmacological targets the compound is able to interact with and to address the challenging development in the future research.
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Zhang L, Virgous C, Si H. Synergistic anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of combined phytochemicals. J Nutr Biochem 2019; 69:19-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Imamura T, Isozumi N, Higashimura Y, Miyazato A, Mizukoshi H, Ohki S, Mori M. Isolation of amaranthin synthetase from Chenopodium quinoa and construction of an amaranthin production system using suspension-cultured tobacco BY-2 cells. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2019; 17:969-981. [PMID: 30451369 PMCID: PMC6587806 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.13032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Betalains are plant pigments primarily produced by plants of the order Caryophyllales. Because betalain possesses anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, it may be useful as a pharmaceutical agent and dietary supplement. Recent studies have identified the genes involved in the betalain biosynthesis of betanin. Amaranthin and celosianin II are abundant in the quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) hypocotyl, and amaranthin comprises glucuronic acid bound to betanin; therefore, this suggests the existence of a glucuronyltransferase involved in the synthesis of amaranthin in the quinoa hypocotyl. To identify the gene involved in amaranthin biosynthesis, we performed a BLAST analysis and phylogenetic tree analysis based on sequences homologous to flavonoid glycosyltransferase, followed by expression analysis on the quinoa hypocotyl to obtain three candidate proteins. Production of amaranthin in a transient Nicotiana benthamiana expression system was evaluated for these candidates and one was identified as having the ability to produce amaranthin. The gene encoding this protein was quinoa amaranthin synthetase 1 (CqAmaSy1). We also created a transgenic tobacco bright yellow-2 (BY-2) cell line wherein four betalain biosynthesis genes were introduced to facilitate amaranthin production. This transgenic cell line produced 13.67 ± 4.13 μm (mean ± SEM) amaranthin and 26.60 ± 1.53 μm betanin, whereas the production of isoamaranthin and isobetanin could not be detected. Tests confirmed the ability of amaranthin and betanin to slightly suppress cancer cell viability. Furthermore, amaranthin was shown to significantly inhibit HIV-1 protease activity, whereas betanin did not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Imamura
- Research Institute for Bioresources and BiotechnologyIshikawa Prefectural UniversityNonoichiIshikawaJapan
| | - Noriyoshi Isozumi
- Center for Nano Materials and Technology (CNMT)Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST)NomiIshikawaJapan
| | - Yasuki Higashimura
- Department of Food ScienceIshikawa Prefectural UniversityNonoichiIshikawaJapan
| | - Akio Miyazato
- Center for Nano Materials and Technology (CNMT)Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST)NomiIshikawaJapan
| | | | - Shinya Ohki
- Center for Nano Materials and Technology (CNMT)Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST)NomiIshikawaJapan
| | - Masashi Mori
- Research Institute for Bioresources and BiotechnologyIshikawa Prefectural UniversityNonoichiIshikawaJapan
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Smeriglio A, Bonasera S, Germanò MP, D'Angelo V, Barreca D, Denaro M, Monforte MT, Galati EM, Trombetta D. Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. fruit as source of betalains with antioxidant, cytoprotective, and anti-angiogenic properties. Phytother Res 2019; 33:1526-1537. [PMID: 30907039 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to investigate the phytochemical profile and biological properties of different colours of betalain cactus pear extracts, evaluating their antioxidant, cytoprotective, and anti-angiogenic properties by cell-free, cell-based, and in vivo assays. A QuEChERS extraction method followed by RP-LC-DAD-MS/MS analysis showed that indicaxanthin and betanin were the main compounds (≥94.32% and ≥96.95%, respectively). Orange cactus pear extracts exert the best antioxidant activity in all assays carried out, in particular into ORAC (17,352.55 ± 987.407 mg trolox equivalents/100 g dry weight) and β-carotene bleaching (60.35%) assays. The red ones, instead, showed the best cytoprotective activity decreasing the cell mortality, LDH, and Caspase-3 release ranging from 4.0 to 55%. According to antioxidant results, the orange cactus pear extracts showing also the highest anti-angiogenic activity (IC50 19.31 μg/ml), followed by the red (IC50 23.55 μg/ml) and the yellow ones (IC50 33.97 μg/ml). In light of the results and correlation analysis, the behaviour of these molecules varies a lot according to their structure and physicochemical features and synergistic activity between betalain classes may be postulated; so the plant complex could be of greater interest compared with the isolated molecules for potential nutraceutical and pharmaceutical uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Smeriglio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Foundation Prof. Antonio Imbesi, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Serena Bonasera
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Foundation Prof. Antonio Imbesi, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Germanò
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Valeria D'Angelo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Davide Barreca
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marcella Denaro
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Foundation Prof. Antonio Imbesi, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Monforte
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Enza Maria Galati
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Domenico Trombetta
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus indica (L. Mill) Inhibits Oxidized LDL-Mediated Human Endothelial Cell Dysfunction through Inhibition of NF- κB Activation. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:3457846. [PMID: 30911345 PMCID: PMC6398026 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3457846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) play a pivotal role in the etiopathogenesis of atherosclerosis through the activation of inflammatory signaling events eventually leading to endothelial dysfunction and senescence. In the present work, we investigated the effects of indicaxanthin, a bioavailable, redox-modulating phytochemical from Opuntia ficus indica fruits, with anti-inflammatory activity, against oxLDL-induced endothelial dysfunction. Human umbilical vein cord cells (HUVEC) were stimulated with human oxLDL, and the effects of indicaxanthin were evaluated in a range between 5 and 20 μM, consistent with its plasma level after a fruit meal (7 μM). Pretreatment with indicaxanthin significantly and concentration-dependently inhibited oxLDL-induced cytotoxicity; ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and ELAM-1 increase; and ABC-A1 decrease of both protein and mRNA levels. From a mechanistic perspective, we also provided evidence that the protective effects of indicaxanthin were redox-dependent and related to the pigment efficacy to inhibit NF-κB transcriptional activity. In conclusion, here we demonstrate indicaxanthin as a novel, dietary phytochemical, able to exert significant protective vascular effects in vitro, at nutritionally relevant concentrations.
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Gouws CA, D’Cunha NM, Georgousopoulou EN, Mellor DD, Naumovski N. The effect of different drying techniques on phytochemical content and in vitro antioxidant properties of Australian‐grown prickly pears (
Opuntia ficus indica
). J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.13900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. Gouws
- Faculty of Health, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Collaborative Research in Bioactives and Biomarkers (CRIBB) group University of Canberra Canberra Australia
| | - Nathan M. D’Cunha
- Faculty of Health, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Collaborative Research in Bioactives and Biomarkers (CRIBB) group University of Canberra Canberra Australia
| | - Ekavi N. Georgousopoulou
- Faculty of Health, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Collaborative Research in Bioactives and Biomarkers (CRIBB) group University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Faculty of Health Science and Education, Department of Nutrition‐Dietetics Harokopio University Athens Greece
| | - Duane D. Mellor
- Faculty of Health, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Collaborative Research in Bioactives and Biomarkers (CRIBB) group University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences Coventry University Coventry UK
| | - Nenad Naumovski
- Faculty of Health, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics University of Canberra Canberra Australia
- Collaborative Research in Bioactives and Biomarkers (CRIBB) group University of Canberra Canberra Australia
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Effects of Complementary Medicine on Successful Breastfeeding and its Associated Issues in the Postpartum Period. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/ijp.80180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Rahimi P, Abedimanesh S, Mesbah-Namin SA, Ostadrahimi A. Betalains, the nature-inspired pigments, in health and diseases. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 59:2949-2978. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2018.1479830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Rahimi
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Abedimanesh
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Nutrition Research Center, Nutritional Science Department, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
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Allegra M, De Cicco P, Ercolano G, Attanzio A, Busà R, Cirino G, Tesoriere L, Livrea MA, Ianaro A. Indicaxanthin from Opuntia Ficus Indica (L. Mill) impairs melanoma cell proliferation, invasiveness, and tumor progression. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 50:19-24. [PMID: 30466978 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.09.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A strong, reciprocal crosstalk between inflammation and melanoma has rigorously been demonstrated in recent years, showing how crucial is a pro-inflammatory microenvironment to drive therapy resistance and metastasis. PURPOSE We investigated on the effects of Indicaxanthin, a novel, anti-inflammatory and bioavailable phytochemical from Opuntia Ficus Indica fruits, against human melanoma both in vitro and in vivo. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS The effects of indicaxanthin were evaluated against the proliferation of A375 human melanoma cell line and in a mice model of cutaneous melanoma. Cell proliferation was assessed by MTT assay, apoptosis by Annexin V-Fluorescein Isothiocyanate/Propidium Iodide staining, protein expression by western blotting, melanoma lesions were subcutaneously injected in mice with B16/F10 cells, chemokine release was quantified by ELISA. RESULTS Data herein presented demonstrate that indicaxanthin effectively inhibits the proliferation of the highly metastatic and invasive A375 cells as shown by growth inhibition, apoptosis induction and cell invasiveness reduction. More interestingly, in vitro data were paralleled by those in vivo showing that indicaxanthin significantly reduced tumor development when orally administered to mice. The results of our study also clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the antiproliferative effect of indicaxanthin, individuating the inhibition of NF-κB pathway as predominant. CONCLUSION In conclusion, we demonstrated that indicaxanthin represents a novel phytochemical able to significantly inhibit human melanoma cell proliferation in vitro and to impair tumor progression in vivo. When considering the resistance of melanoma to the current therapeutical approach and the very limited number of phytochemicals able to partially counteract it, our findings may be of interest to explore indicaxanthin potential in further and more complex melanoma studies in combo therapy, i.e. where different check points of melanoma development are targeted.
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Key Words
- Apoptosis
- Bcl-2, B cell lymphoma gene-2 (Bcl-2)
- CXCL1, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1
- Indicaxanthin
- Inflammation
- List of Abbrevations: AxV-FITC, annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate
- MTT, 3-[4,5-dimethyltiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide
- Melanoma
- NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa B
- NHEM, normal human epidermal melanocytes
- Opuntia Ficus Indica (L.Mill)
- PI, propidium iodide PI
- PhC, phytochemicals
- Phytochemical
- c-FLIP, FLICE-inhibitory protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Allegra
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola De Cicco
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Scuola di Medicina, Università di Napoli Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ercolano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Scuola di Medicina, Università di Napoli Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Attanzio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosalia Busà
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Scuola di Medicina, Università di Napoli Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luisa Tesoriere
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria A Livrea
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Ianaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 28, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
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Tutone M, Virzì A, Almerico AM. Reverse screening on indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus-indica as natural chemoactive and chemopreventive agent. J Theor Biol 2018; 455:147-160. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2018.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Attanzio A, Tesoriere L, Vasto S, Pintaudi AM, Livrea MA, Allegra M. Short-term cactus pear [ Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill] fruit supplementation ameliorates the inflammatory profile and is associated with improved antioxidant status among healthy humans. Food Nutr Res 2018; 62:1262. [PMID: 30150921 PMCID: PMC6104507 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v62.1262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary ingredients and food components are major modifiable factors protecting immune system and preventing the progression of a low-grade chronic inflammation responsible for age-related diseases. Objective Our study explored whether cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica, Surfarina cultivar) fruit supplementation modulates plasma inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults. Correlations between inflammatory parameters and antioxidant status were also assessed in parallel. Design In a randomised, 2-period (2 weeks/period), crossover, controlled-feeding study, conducted in 28 healthy volunteers [mean age 39.96 (±9.15) years, BMI 23.1 (±1.5) kg/m2], the effects of a diet supplemented with cactus pear fruit pulp (200 g, twice a day) were compared with those of an equivalent diet with isocaloric fresh fruit substitution. Results With respect to control, cactus pear diet decreased ( p < 0.05) the pro-inflammatory markers such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, interferon-γ (INF)-γ, IL-8, C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), whereas it increased ( p < 0.05) the anti-inflammatory marker IL-10. Moreover, the diet decreased ratios between pro-inflammatory biomarkers (CRP, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory biomarker (IL-10) ( p < 0.05). Cactus pear supplementation caused an increase ( p < 0.05) in dermal carotenoids (skin carotenoid score, SCS), a biomarker of the body antioxidant status, with correlations between SCS and CRP (r = −0.905, p < 0.0001), IL-8 (r = −0.835, p < 0.0001) and IL-10 (r = 0.889, p < 0.0001). Conclusions The presently observed modulation of both inflammatory markers and antioxidant balance suggests cactus pear fruit as a novel and beneficial component to be incorporated into current healthy dietary habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Attanzio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Tesoriere
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Sonya Vasto
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pintaudi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria A Livrea
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Allegra
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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The impact of the matrix of red beet products and interindividual variability on betacyanins bioavailability in humans. Food Res Int 2018; 108:530-538. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Gambino G, Allegra M, Sardo P, Attanzio A, Tesoriere L, Livrea MA, Ferraro G, Carletti F. Brain Distribution and Modulation of Neuronal Excitability by Indicaxanthin From Opuntia Ficus Indica Administered at Nutritionally-Relevant Amounts. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:133. [PMID: 29867444 PMCID: PMC5954040 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have recently investigated the role of nutraceuticals in complex pathophysiological processes such as oxidative damages, inflammatory conditions and excitotoxicity. In this regard, the effects of nutraceuticals on basic functions of neuronal cells, such as excitability, are still poorly investigated. For this reason, the possible modulation of neuronal excitability by phytochemicals (PhC) could represent an interesting field of research given that excitotoxicity phenomena are involved in neurodegenerative alterations leading, for example, to Alzheimer’s disease. The present study was focused on indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus indica, a bioactive betalain pigment, with a proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, previously found to cross blood-brain barrier (BBB) and to modulate the bioelectric activity of hippocampal neurons. On this basis, we aimed at detecting the specific brain areas where indicaxanthin localizes after oral administration at dietary-achievable amounts and highlighting eventual local effects on the excitability of single neuronal units. HPLC analysis of brain tissue 1 h after ingestion of 2 μmol/kg indicaxanthin indicated that the phytochemical accumulates in cortex, hippocampus, diencephalon, brainstem and cerebellum, but not in the striato-pallidal complex. Then, electrophysiological recordings, applying the microiontophoretic technique, were carried out with different amounts of indicaxanthin (0.34, 0.17, 0.085 ng/neuron) to assess whether indicaxanthin influenced the neuronal firing rate. The data showed that the bioelectric activity of neurons belonging to different brain areas was modulated after local injection of indicaxanthin, mainly with dose-related responses. A predominating inhibitory effect was observed, suggesting a possible novel beneficial effect of indicaxanthin in reducing cell excitability. These findings can constitute a new rationale for exploring biological mechanisms through which PhC could modulate neuronal function with a relapse on complex cognitive brain process and related neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuditta Gambino
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience (Bio.Ne.C.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Allegra
- Post-graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience (Bio.Ne.C.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Post-graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Attanzio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Tesoriere
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria A Livrea
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferraro
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience (Bio.Ne.C.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Post-graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio Carletti
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience (Bio.Ne.C.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Sawicki T, Topolska J, Romaszko E, Wiczkowski W. Profile and Content of Betalains in Plasma and Urine of Volunteers after Long-Term Exposure to Fermented Red Beet Juice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:4155-4163. [PMID: 29638119 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b00925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine profile and content of betalains in volunteers' plasma and urine after long-term exposure to fermented red beet juice. During 6 weeks, 24 healthy volunteers consumed juice with a dose of 0.7 mg betalains/kg body weight. Betalains were analyzed by means of micro-HPLC-MS/MS. Twelve betalain derivatives were found in blood plasma and urine after juice intake. The highest betalains level in blood plasma (87.65 ± 15.71 nmol/L) and urine (1.14 ± 0.12 μmol) was found after the first and second week of juice intake, respectively. During juice consumption, the contribution of betalain metabolites was higher than that of native betalains, and interindividual variability in profile and content of betalains was observed. Summarizing, it was observed that long-term and regular consumption of the juice causes stabilization of profile and content of betalains in physiological fluids of volunteers, which include native compounds and their decarboxylated and dehydrogenated metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sawicki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str. , 10-748 Olsztyn , Poland
| | - Joanna Topolska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str. , 10-748 Olsztyn , Poland
| | - Ewa Romaszko
- NZOZ Atarax, 1 Maja 3 Str. , 10-117 Olsztyn , Poland
| | - Wiesław Wiczkowski
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10 Str. , 10-748 Olsztyn , Poland
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Sawicki T, Juśkiewicz J, Wiczkowski W. Using the SPE and Micro-HPLC-MS/MS Method for the Analysis of Betalains in Rat Plasma after Red Beet Administration. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22122137. [PMID: 29207522 PMCID: PMC6149673 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22122137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop a simple and reproducible method for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of betalains in plasma samples, based on Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and micro-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (micro-HPLC-MS/MS). The eight betalain compounds detected and quantified were characterized in the fortified rat blood plasma samples. The developed method showed a good coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.999), good recovery, precision, and appropriate limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) for these compounds. Application of this method for the treatment of rat plasma samples collected after the betalain preparation administration, for the first time, revealed the presence of native betalains and their metabolites in plasma samples. Moreover, among them, betanin (2.14 ± 0.06 µmol/L) and isobetanin (3.28 ± 0.04 µmol/L) were found at the highest concentration. The results indicated that the combination of an SPE method with a micro-HPLC-MS/MS analysis may be successfully applied for the determination of betalains in the blood plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sawicki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Jerzy Juśkiewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Wiesław Wiczkowski
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
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Cruz Martínez C, Diaz Gómez M, Oh MS. Use of traditional herbal medicine as an alternative in dental treatment in Mexican dentistry: a review. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2017; 55:1992-1998. [PMID: 28738710 PMCID: PMC6130662 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2017.1347188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Herbal therapies are used worldwide to treat health conditions. In Mexico, generations have used them to treat gingivitis, periodontitis, mouth infections, and discoloured teeth. However, few studies have collected scientific evidence on their effects. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at searching and compiling scientific evidence of alternative oral and dental treatments using medicinal herbs from Mexico. METHODS We collected various Mexican medicinal plants used in the dental treatment from the database of the Institute of Biology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. To correlate with existing scientific evidence, we used the PubMed database with the key term '(scientific name) and (oral or dental)'. RESULTS Mexico has various medical herbs with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, according to ancestral medicinal books and healers. Despite a paucity of experimental research demonstrating the antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiplaque effects of these Mexican plants, they could still be useful as an alternative treatment of several periodontal diseases or as anticariogenic agents. However, the number of studies supporting their uses and effects remains insufficient. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION It is important for the health of consumers to scientifically demonstrate the real effects of natural medicine, as well as clarify and establish their possible therapeutic applications. Through this bibliographical revision, we found papers that testify or refute their ancestral uses, and conclude that the use of plants to treat oral conditions or to add to the dental pharmacological arsenal should be based on experimental studies verifying their suitability for dental treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Cruz Martínez
- Department of Oriental Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Martha Diaz Gómez
- Deparment of History, College of Dentistry, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Coyoacan, Mexico
| | - Myung Sook Oh
- Department of Oriental Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Aragona M, Lauriano ER, Pergolizzi S, Faggio C. Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller as a source of bioactivity compounds for health and nutrition. Nat Prod Res 2017; 32:2037-2049. [DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2017.1365073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Aragona
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - E. R. Lauriano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - S. Pergolizzi
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - C. Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Hua Q, Zhou Q, Gan S, Wu J, Chen C, Li J, Ye Y, Zhao J, Hu G, Qin Y. Proteomic Analysis of Hylocereus polyrhizus Reveals Metabolic Pathway Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101606. [PMID: 27690004 PMCID: PMC5085639 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Red dragon fruit or red pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is the only edible fruit that contains betalains. The color of betalains ranges from red and violet to yellow in plants. Betalains may also serve as an important component of health-promoting and disease-preventing functional food. Currently, the biosynthetic and regulatory pathways for betalain production remain to be fully deciphered. In this study, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based proteomic analyses were used to reveal the molecular mechanism of betalain biosynthesis in H. polyrhizus fruits at white and red pulp stages, respectively. A total of 1946 proteins were identified as the differentially expressed between the two samples, and 936 of them were significantly highly expressed at the red pulp stage of H. polyrhizus. RNA-seq and iTRAQ analyses showed that some transcripts and proteins were positively correlated; they belonged to “phenylpropanoid biosynthesis”, “tyrosine metabolism”, “flavonoid biosynthesis”, “ascorbate and aldarate metabolism”, “betalains biosynthesis” and “anthocyanin biosynthesis”. In betalains biosynthesis pathway, several proteins/enzymes such as polyphenol oxidase, CYP76AD3 and 4,5-dihydroxy-phenylalanine (DOPA) dioxygenase extradiol-like protein were identified. The present study provides a new insight into the molecular mechanism of the betalain biosynthesis at the posttranscriptional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingzhu Hua
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Qianjun Zhou
- General Station of the Administration of Seeds Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510500, China.
| | - Susheng Gan
- Plant Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Jingyu Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Canbin Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Jiaqiang Li
- Dongguan Institute of Forest Science, Dongguan 523106, China.
| | - Yaoxiong Ye
- Dongguan Institute of Forest Science, Dongguan 523106, China.
| | - Jietang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Guibing Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Yonghua Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Crops-South China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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Huang FL, Chiou RYY, Chen WC, Ko HJ, Lai LJ, Lin SM. Dehydrated Basella alba Fruit Juice as a Novel Natural Colorant: Pigment Stability, In Vivo Food Safety Evaluation and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism Characterization. PLANT FOODS FOR HUMAN NUTRITION (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2016; 71:322-329. [PMID: 27405766 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-016-0563-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Flesh of Basella alba L. mature fruits bearing deep-violet juice provides a novel and potential source of natural colorant. To minimize the pigment purification process and warrant safety acceptability, B. alba colorant powder (BACP) was prepared using mature fruits through a practical batch preparation and subjected to fundamental pigment characterization, food safety assessment and bio-function evaluation. Yield of the dehydrated B. alba colorant powder (BACP) was 37 g/kg fresh fruits. Reconstituted aqueous solution of the BACP exhibited an identical visible spectrum (400-700 nm) as that of fresh juice. Color of the solution (absorbance at 540 nm) was stable in a broad pH ranged from 3 to 8 and enhanced by co-presence of calcium and magnesium ions, while was rapidly bleached by ferrous and ferric ions. For in vivo food safety evaluation, ICR mice were daily gavage administered with BACP up to 1000 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. Organ weight determination, serum biochemical analysis and histopathological examination of hearts, livers, lungs and kidneys revealed no obvious health hazard. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity of BACP was characterized in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. BACP exerted potent anti-inflammatory activity by down-regulation of inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12 and the blockage of IκB kinase (IKK)/IκB/nuclear factor-κ B (NFκB) activation cascade. These results supported that BACP may serve as a beneficial alternative of natural food colorant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Long Huang
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Robin Y-Y Chiou
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wei-Cheng Chen
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Graduate Institute of Food Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Huey-Jiun Ko
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli County, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Li-Jung Lai
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Food Nutrition, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan 71703, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shu-Mei Lin
- Department of Food Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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Bardaa S, Ben Halima N, Aloui F, Ben Mansour R, Jabeur H, Bouaziz M, Sahnoun Z. Oil from pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seeds: evaluation of its functional properties on wound healing in rats. Lipids Health Dis 2016; 15:73. [PMID: 27068642 PMCID: PMC4827242 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-016-0237-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing natural drug demand for pharmaceutical uses has encouraged scientifics all over the world to explore medicinal plants recognized as efficient remedies. In this context, extracted oil from pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo L.) is an interesting target, as it is composed with prominent pharmacological properties to possible wound healing treatments. Methods The composition and content of certain bioactive constituents of the cold pressed oil obtained from pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo L.) were analyzed and studied for their wound healing properties. Uniform wounds were induced on the dorsum of 18 rats, randomly divided into three groups. The wounds were photographed, and topically treated with saline solution (control group), 0.13 mg/mm2 of a reference drug (“Cicaflora cream®”), and 0.52 μl/mm2 of pumpkin’s oil each 2 days until the first group is completely healing and so far biopsies were histologically assessed. Results The composition and content of tocopherols, fatty acids, and phytosterols were determined. The results showed an excellent quality of pumpkin oil with high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (Linoleic acid: 50.88 ± 0.106 g/100 g of total fatty acids), tocopherols (280 ppm) and sterols (2086.5 ± 19.092 ppm). High content of these bioactive components were in agreement with an efficient wound healing by the mean of an in vivo study. In fact, morphometric assessment and histological findings revealed healed biopsies from pumpkin oil treated group of rats, unlike untreated group, and a full re-epithelialization with reappearance of skin appendages and well organized collagen fibers without inflammatory cells. Conclusions This study showed the significance of oil from pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo L.) as a promising drug to healing wounds in animal assays. As a whole, pumpkin’s oil would be recommended in the nutritional and medicinal purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Bardaa
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Avenue Majida Boulila, 3029, Sfax, Tunisia
| | | | - Fatma Aloui
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et de Génie Enzymatique des Lipases, École Nationale d'Ingénieurs de Sfax, Université de Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | | | - Hazem Jabeur
- Institut Superieur de Biotechnologie de Sfax, Universite de Sfax, BP 1175, 3038 Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Bouaziz
- Institut Superieur de Biotechnologie de Sfax, Universite de Sfax, BP 1175, 3038 Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Zouheir Sahnoun
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Avenue Majida Boulila, 3029, Sfax, Tunisia.
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Khan MI. Plant Betalains: Safety, Antioxidant Activity, Clinical Efficacy, and Bioavailability. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2015; 15:316-330. [PMID: 33371594 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Betalains are accepted food additives derived from vacuoles of plants belonging to about 17 families in the order Caryophyllales. These pigments are composed of a nitrogenous core structure, betalamic acid [4-(2-oxoethylidene)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid]. Betalamic acid condenses with imino compounds (cyclo-DOPA and/or its glucosyl derivatives) or amines and/or their derivatives to form violet betacyanins (for example, betanin) and yellow betaxanthins (for example, indicaxanthin), respectively. Till date, structures of 75 betalains have been elucidated from plants under the order Caryophyllales. The extracted betalains are safe to consume and they act as micronutrients in the body. In vitro studies to highlight radical-scavenging activity, cell culture studies to assess cytotoxicity and absorption of betalains, and proven clinical efficacies are compiled in this review. The literature on biological activity has not been analyzed for a synthesis of safety, clinical efficacy, and bioavailability to arrive at the concentrations required for the purported health benefits. Most betalains are under-utilized in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations due to poor stability and lack of scientific reports highlighting their superior tinctorial strength including flourescence, water solubility, and functional value alongside their bioavailability. This is the first comprehensive review on the dietary safety, biological activity and bioavailability of betalains. Based on this review, for future debate and input from health professionals, a human daily intake of betanin and indicaxanthin can be proposed at 100 and 50 mg, respectively.
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The effect of natural extracts on laser burn wound healing. J Surg Res 2015; 201:464-72. [PMID: 27020833 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2015.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the achievements in modern medicine, there is no effective natural treatment of second-degree burns till now. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the wound-healing efficiency of three extracted oils, from the prickly pear, pumpkin and linseed on partial-thickness burns induced by fractional CO2 laser (an innovative up-to-date technique) in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty rats completing partial-thickness burns by fractional CO2 laser were randomly divided into five groups. The burns were measured, photographed, and topically treated daily with saline solution, "CYTOL BASIC," pumpkin-, linseed-, and prickly pear-extracted oils (0.52 μL/mm(2) of oil) until day 7. The response to treatments was assessed by macroscopic, histologic, and biochemical parameters. RESULTS Due to their chemical composition, the extracted oils showed significant improvements over the control and reference groups during the trial for both general wound appearance and crusting. On day 7, the prickly pear, linseed, and pumpkin oils showed a significant decrease in the healing time (0 cm(2), 0.15 cm(2), and 0.18 cm(2), respectively) when compared to the control and reference groups (1.49 cm(2) and 0.85 cm(2)). Histologic assessment of the prickly pear oil-treated group revealed good healing proprieties compared with the other groups. The collagen content in prickly pear oil-treated group was found to be significantly greater (270.67 ± 7.48) than that in all other groups. CONCLUSIONS Our experiment has shown, for the first time, a scientific evidence of the efficiency of extracted oils of prickly pear, pumpkin, and linseed on partial-thickness burns.
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Ishii T. Close teamwork between Nrf2 and peroxiredoxins 1 and 6 for the regulation of prostaglandin D2 and E2 production in macrophages in acute inflammation. Free Radic Biol Med 2015; 88:189-198. [PMID: 25968070 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2015.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is a complex biological self-defense reaction triggered by tissue damage or infection by pathogens. Acute inflammation is regulated by the time- and cell type-dependent production of cytokines and small signaling molecules including reactive oxygen species and prostaglandins. Recent studies have unveiled the important role of the transcription factor Nrf2 in the regulation of prostaglandin production through transcriptional regulation of peroxiredoxins 1 and 6 (Prx1 and Prx6) and lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS). Prx1 and Prx6 are multifunctional proteins important for cell protection against oxidative stress, but also work together to facilitate production of prostaglandins E2 and D2 (PGE2 and PGD2). Prx1 secreted from cells under mild oxidative stress binds Toll-like receptor 4 and induces NF-κB activation, important for the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and microsomal PGE synthase-1 (mPGES-1) expression. The activated MAPKs p38 and ERK phosphorylate Prx6, leading to NADPH oxidase-2 activation, which contributes to production of PGD2 by hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase (H-PGDS). PGD2 and its end product 15-deoxy-∆(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) activate Nrf2 thereby forming a positive feedback loop for further production of PGD2 by L-PGDS. Maintenance of cellular glutathione levels is an important role of Nrf2 not only for cell protection but also for the synthesis of prostaglandins, as mPGES-1 and H-PGDS require glutathione for their activities. This review is aimed at describing the functions of Prx1 and Prx6 in the regulation of PGD2 and PGE2 production in acute inflammation in macrophages and the importance of 15d-PGJ2 as an intrinsic Nrf2 activator.
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Naselli F, Belshaw NJ, Gentile C, Tutone M, Tesoriere L, Livrea MA, Caradonna F. Phytochemical Indicaxanthin Inhibits Colon Cancer Cell Growth and Affects the DNA Methylation Status by Influencing Epigenetically Modifying Enzyme Expression and Activity. JOURNAL OF NUTRIGENETICS AND NUTRIGENOMICS 2015; 8:114-27. [PMID: 26439130 DOI: 10.1159/000439382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, we have shown anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of indicaxanthin associated with epigenetic modulation of the onco-suppressor p16INK4a in the human colon cancer cell line CACO2. In the present study, the epigenetic activity of indicaxanthin and the mechanisms involved were further investigated in other colorectal cancer cell lines. METHODS LOVO1, CACO2, HT29, HCT116, and DLD1 cells were used to evaluate the potential influence of consistent dietary concentrations of indicaxanthin on DNA methylation, and the epigenetic mechanisms involved were researched. RESULTS Indicaxanthin exhibited anti-proliferative activity in all cell lines but HT29, induced demethylation in the promoters of some methylation-silenced onco-suppressor genes involved in colorectal carcinogenesis (p16INK4a, GATA4, and ESR1), and left unchanged others which were basally hypermethylated (SFRP1 and HPP1). In apparent contrast, cell exposure to indicaxanthin increased DNMT gene expression, although indicaxanthin appeared to be an inhibitor of DNMT activity. Indicaxanthin also increased the expression of genes involved in DNA demethylation. Finally, an in silico molecular modelling approach suggested stable binding of indicaxanthin at the DNMT1 catalytic site. CONCLUSIONS Our findings contribute to new knowledge in the field of phytochemicals and specifically suggest dietary indicaxanthin as a potential epigenetic agent to protect colon cells against tumoral alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flores Naselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Universitx00E0; di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Allegra M, Carletti F, Gambino G, Tutone M, Attanzio A, Tesoriere L, Ferraro G, Sardo P, Almerico AM, Livrea MA. Indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus-indica Crosses the Blood-Brain Barrier and Modulates Neuronal Bioelectric Activity in Rat Hippocampus at Dietary-Consistent Amounts. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2015; 63:7353-7360. [PMID: 26227670 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.5b02612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Indicaxanthin is a bioactive and bioavailable betalain pigment from the Opuntia ficus-indica fruits. In this in vivo study, kinetic measurements showed that indicaxanthin is revealed in the rat brain within 1 h from oral administration of 2 μmol/kg, an amount compatible with a dietary consumption of cactus pear fruits in humans. A peak (20 ± 2.4 ng of indicaxanthin per whole brain) was measured after 2.5 h; thereafter the molecule disappeared with first order kinetics within 4 h. The potential of indicaxanthin to affect neural activities was in vivo investigated by a microiontophoretic approach. Indicaxanthin, administered in a range between 0.085 ng and 0.34 ng per neuron, dose-dependently modulated the rate of discharge of spontaneously active neurons of the hippocampus, with reduction of the discharge and related changes of latency and duration of the effect. Indicaxanthin (0.34 ng/neuron) showed inhibitory effects on glutamate-induced excitation, indicating activity at the level of glutamatergic synapses. A molecular target of indicaxanthin is suggested by in silico molecular modeling of indicaxanthin with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), the most represented of the glutamate receptor family in hippocampus. Therefore, at nutritionally compatible amounts indicaxanthin (i) crosses the rat BBB and accumulates in brain; (ii) can affect the bioelectric activity of hippocampal neurons locally treated with amounts comparable with those measured in the brain; and (iii) modulates glutamate-induced neuronal excitation. The potential of dietary indicaxanthin as a natural neuromodulatory agent deserves further mechanistic and neurophysiologic investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Allegra
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio Carletti
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche, Sezione di Fisiologia Umana "G. Pagano", University of Palermo , Corso Tukory 129, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuditta Gambino
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche, Sezione di Fisiologia Umana "G. Pagano", University of Palermo , Corso Tukory 129, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Tutone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Attanzio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Tesoriere
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferraro
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche, Sezione di Fisiologia Umana "G. Pagano", University of Palermo , Corso Tukory 129, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche, Sezione di Fisiologia Umana "G. Pagano", University of Palermo , Corso Tukory 129, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Almerico
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Antonia Livrea
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo , Via M. Cipolla 74, 90121 Palermo, Italy
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Qingzhu H, Chengjie C, Zhe C, Pengkun C, Yuewen M, Jingyu W, Jian Z, Guibing H, Jietang Z, Yonghua Q. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Key Genes Related to Betalain Biosynthesis in Pulp Coloration of Hylocereus polyrhizus. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 6:1179. [PMID: 26779215 PMCID: PMC4700300 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2015.01179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Betalains have high nutritional value and bioactivities. Red pulp pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is the only fruit containing abundant betalains for consumer. However, no information is available about genes involved in betalain biosynthesis in H. polyrhizus. Herein, two cDNA libraries of pitaya pulps with two different coloration stages (white and red pulp stages) of Guanhuahong (H. polyrhizus) were constructed. A total of about 12 Gb raw RNA-Seq data was generated and was de novo assembled into 122,677 transcripts with an average length of 1183 bp and an N50 value of 2008. Approximately 99.99% of all transcripts were annotated based on seven public databases. A total of 8871 transcripts were significantly regulated. Thirty-three candidate transcripts related to betalain biosynthesis were obtained from the transcriptome data. Transcripts encoding enzymes involved in betalain biosynthesis were analyzed using RT-qPCR at the whole pulp coloration stages of H. polyrhizus (7-1) and H. undatus (132-4). Nine key transcripts of betalain biosynthesis were identified. They were assigned to four kinds of genes in betalain biosynthetic pathway, including tyrosinase, 4, 5-DOPA dioxygenase extradiol, cytochrome P450 and glucosyltransferase. Ultimately, a preliminary betalain biosynthetic pathway for pitaya was proposed based on betalain analyses, gene expression profiles and published documents.
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Nopal cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) as a source of bioactive compounds for nutrition, health and disease. Molecules 2014; 19:14879-901. [PMID: 25232708 PMCID: PMC6270776 DOI: 10.3390/molecules190914879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly referred to as prickly pear or nopal cactus, is a dicotyledonous angiosperm plant. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is characterized by its remarkable adaptation to arid and semi-arid climates in tropical and subtropical regions of the globe. In the last decade, compelling evidence for the nutritional and health benefit potential of this cactus has been provided by academic scientists and private companies. Notably, its rich composition in polyphenols, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acids has been highlighted through the use of a large panel of extraction methods. The identified natural cactus compounds and derivatives were shown to be endowed with biologically relevant activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial and neuroprotective properties. The present review is aimed at stressing the major classes of cactus components and their medical interest through emphasis on some of their biological effects, particularly those having the most promising expected health benefit and therapeutic impacts.
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