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Tariba Lovaković B, Rašeta D, Lazarus M, Jurica K, Živković Semren T, Jurič A, Dramićanin A, Petrinec B, Bulog A, Brčić Karačonji I. Elemental and Radiological Characterisation of Arbutus unedo L. Leaves and Tea: Impact of Preparation Method on Nutritional Risk/Benefit. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04201-9. [PMID: 38702515 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterise the elemental and radiological composition of strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) leaves and tea preparations and compare it with commercial Uvin H herbal mixture, widely used in treatment of urinary tract infections. The concentration of 17 elements and the activity concentration of selected radionuclides were measured in strawberry tree leaves/Uvin H herbal mixture, as well as in herbal tea prepared by infusion or decoction of leaves for 5 or 10 min. In both leaves and tea preparations, Ca, K, Mg, and Na were the most abundant elements, while the lowest levels were measured for As, Co, Mo, and Se. Only 137Cs and 40K were detected in analysed leaves/herbal mixture, while the activity of radionuclides in tea preparations was below the detection limit. The maximum possible health benefits can be obtained by a 10-min decoction of leaves, which resulted in the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant activity and levels of K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, and Se in comparison to the other preparation methods evaluated in this study. The calculated intake of potentially toxic elements and radionuclides does not represent a health risk to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Tariba Lovaković
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Rašeta
- Division of Radiation Protection, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Lazarus
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Health, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica grada Vukovara 33, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tanja Živković Semren
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Health, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andreja Jurič
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Aleksandra Dramićanin
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, 11158, Serbia
| | - Branko Petrinec
- Division of Radiation Protection, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Crkvena ulica 21, 31000, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Aleksandar Bulog
- Department of Health Ecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Braće Branchetta 20, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia.
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Bebek Markovinović A, Brdar D, Putnik P, Bosiljkov T, Durgo K, Huđek Turković A, Brčić Karačonji I, Jurica K, Pavlić B, Granato D, Bursać Kovačević D. Strawberry tree fruits (Arbutus unedo L.): Bioactive composition, cellular antioxidant activity, and 3D printing of functional foods. Food Chem 2024; 433:137287. [PMID: 37708697 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.137287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the use of Arbutus unedo L. fruits for the production of functional foods by three-dimensional printing (3DP). First, the biological activity of the fruits was investigated in vitro, followed by 3DP with different starch types and proportions using two 3DP programs. All 3DP samples were characterized for their bioactive, antioxidant, physicochemical and rheological properties. In terms of biological activity, the recommended daily dose of polyphenols from the aqueous extract of A. unedo can protect the integrity of DNA. Moreover, it could be useful as an antimicrobial agent. All 3DP parameters significantly affected bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. The 3DP products were found to be a good source of polyphenols (632.60 mg/100 g), among which condensed tannins were predominant (42 %). In conclusion, the fruits of A. unedo should be considered as a sustainable resource for the production of innovative functional foods with 3DP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anica Bebek Markovinović
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Dora Brdar
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Predrag Putnik
- Department of Food Technology, University North, Trg dr. Žarka Dolinara 1, 48000 Koprivnica, Croatia.
| | - Tomislav Bosiljkov
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ksenija Durgo
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ana Huđek Turković
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Branimir Pavlić
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Blvd. cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia.
| | - Daniel Granato
- Bioactivity and Applications Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland.
| | - Danijela Bursać Kovačević
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Jurič A, Tariba Lovaković B, Lazarus M, Petrinec B, Širić I, Brčić Karačonji I. Development of a solid phase microextraction method for the determination of nicotine in dried mushrooms. Anal Methods 2023; 15:4980-4986. [PMID: 37727143 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay01181j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Official control of EU market foodstuffs repeatedly reports high nicotine levels in dried wild mushrooms without any clear scientific consensus about their origin. The advised constant monitoring calls for improvements to existing methods. For this purpose, our aim was to develop a headspace solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) method coupled to gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (GC-MS) that would eliminate the need for extensive sample pre-treatment. The type of fiber coating, amount of sample, extraction temperature and time, desorption time and salt addition were investigated and optimized as parameters affecting the SPME procedure. The optimized conditions were used to validate a quantitative method for nicotine analysis by matrix-matched calibration and isotopically labelled internal standard correction. The method provided good linearity (r2 = 0.9994) over the tested concentration range (0.025-1 mg kg-1), low detection limit (0.005 mg kg-1) and low quantification limit (0.017 mg kg-1) for nicotine, being below the EU foodstuff regulations. For both of the tested concentration levels (0.050 and 0.200 mg kg-1), precision expressed as relative standard deviation was below 10% (4.5% and 8.5%, respectively), while accuracy was 98.2% and 100.3%. The optimized method was then used to determine nicotine levels in 18 samples of dried Boletus mushrooms from southeastern European countries entering the EU market. We demonstrated our HS-SPME procedure to be fast, simple, sensitive, solvent-free, cost-effective and thus suitable for controlling consumer safety regarding nicotine level in dried mushrooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Blanka Tariba Lovaković
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Maja Lazarus
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Branko Petrinec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ivan Širić
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Health Studies, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
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Žunec S, Karačonji IB, Čatalinac M, Jurič A, Katić A, Kozina G, Micek V, Neuberg M, Vrdoljak AL. Effects of concomitant use of THC and irinotecan on tumour growth and biochemical markers in a syngeneic mouse model of colon cancer. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2023; 74:198-206. [PMID: 37791673 PMCID: PMC10549892 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2023-74-3765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical treatment with the antineoplastic drug irinotecan (IRI) is often hindered by side effects that significantly reduce the quality of life of treated patients. Due to the growing public support for products with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), even though relevant scientific literature does not provide clear evidence of their high antitumour potential, some cancer patients take unregistered preparations containing up to 80 % THC. This study was conducted on a syngeneic colorectal cancer mouse model to test the efficiency and safety of concomitant treatment with IRI and THC. Male BALB/c mice subcutaneously injected with CT26 cells were receiving 60 mg/kg of IRI intraperitoneally on day 1 and 5 of treatment and/or 7 mg/kg of THC by gavage a day for 7 days. Treatment responses were evaluated based on changes in body, brain, and liver weight, tumour growth, blood cholinesterase activity, and oxidative stress parameters. Irinotecan's systemic toxicity was evidenced by weight loss and high oxidative stress. The important finding of this study is that combining THC with IRI diminishes IRI efficiency in inhibiting tumour growth. However, further studies, focused on more subtle molecular methods in tumour tissue and analytical analysis of IRI and THC distribution in tumour-bearing mice, are needed to prove our observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzana Žunec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Katić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Kozina
- University North, University Centre Varaždin, Varaždin, Croatia
| | - Vedran Micek
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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Piasek M, Škrgatić L, Sulimanec A, Orct T, Sekovanić A, Kovačić J, Katić A, Branović Čakanić K, Pizent A, Brajenović N, Jurič A, Brčić Karačonji I, Kljaković-Gašpić Z, Tariba Lovaković B, Lazarus M, Stasenko S, Miškulin I, Jurasović J. Effects of Maternal Cigarette Smoking on Trace Element Levels and Steroidogenesis in the Maternal-Placental-Fetal Unit. Toxics 2023; 11:714. [PMID: 37624219 PMCID: PMC10459679 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the interaction of toxic elements cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) due to exposure from cigarette smoking, essential elements, and steroidogenesis in the maternal-placental-fetal unit. In a cohort of 155 healthy, postpartum women with vaginal term deliveries in clinical hospitals in Zagreb, Croatia, samples of maternal blood/serum and urine, placental tissue, and umbilical cord blood/serum were collected at childbirth. The biomarkers determined were concentrations of Cd, Pb, iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and selenium (Se), and steroid hormones progesterone and estradiol in maternal and umbilical cord blood and the placenta. Three study groups were designated based on self-reported data on cigarette smoking habits and confirmed by urine cotinine levels: never smokers (n = 71), former smokers (n = 48), and active smokers (n = 36). Metal(loid)s, steroid hormones, urine cotinine, and creatinine levels were analyzed by ICP-MS, ELISA, GC-MS, and spectrophotometry. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy was associated with increased Cd levels in maternal, placental, and fetal compartments, Pb in the placenta, and with decreased Fe in the placenta. In active smokers, decreased progesterone and estradiol concentrations in cord blood serum were found, while sex steroid hormones did not change in either maternal serum or placenta. This study provides further evidence regarding toxic and essential metal(loid) interactions during prenatal life, and new data on sex steroid disruption in cord serum related to cigarette smoking. The results indicate that umbilical cord sex steroid levels may be a putative early marker of developmental origins of the future burden of disease related to harmful prenatal exposure to cigarette smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Piasek
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Lana Škrgatić
- University Hospital Centre, Petrova 13, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.Š.); (I.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Antonija Sulimanec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Tatjana Orct
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Ankica Sekovanić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Jelena Kovačić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Anja Katić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | | | - Alica Pizent
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Nataša Brajenović
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Zorana Kljaković-Gašpić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Blanka Tariba Lovaković
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Maja Lazarus
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Sandra Stasenko
- Merkur University Hospital, Zajčeva ulica 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Iva Miškulin
- University Hospital Centre, Petrova 13, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.Š.); (I.M.)
| | - Jasna Jurasović
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.P.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (A.S.); (J.K.); (A.K.); (A.P.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (I.B.K.); (Z.K.-G.); (B.T.L.); (M.L.)
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Jurič A, Lovaković BT, Zandona A, Rašić D, Češi M, Pizent A, Neuberg M, Canjuga I, Katalinić M, Vrdoljak AL, Rešić A, Karačonji IB. The effects of ketamine on viability, primary DNA damage, and oxidative stress parameters in HepG2 and SH-SY5Y cells. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2023; 74:106-114. [PMID: 37357882 PMCID: PMC10291499 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2023-74-3727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic used to induce general anaesthesia in humans and laboratory animals. Due to its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, it is also used as a recreational drug. Anaesthetic agents can cause toxic effects at the cellular level and affect cell survival, induce DNA damage, and cause oxidant/antioxidant imbalance. The aim of this study was to explore these possible adverse effects of ketamine on hepatocellular HepG2 and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells after 24-hour exposure to a concentration range covering concentrations used in analgesia, drug abuse, and anaesthesia (0.39, 1.56, and 6.25 µmol/L, respectively). At these concentrations ketamine had relatively low toxic outcomes, as it lowered HepG2 and SH-SY5Y cell viability up to 30 %, and low, potentially repairable DNA damage. Interestingly, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) remained unchanged in both cell lines. On the other hand, oxidative stress markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT)] pointed to ketamine-induced oxidant/antioxidant imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Antonio Zandona
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dubravka Rašić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martin Češi
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alica Pizent
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Irena Canjuga
- University North, University Centre Varaždin, Varaždin, Croatia
| | - Maja Katalinić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Arnes Rešić
- Children’s Hospital Zagreb Department of Paediatrics, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Health Studies, Rijeka, Croatia
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Bebek Markovinović A, Milošević S, Teslić N, Pavlić B, Putnik P, Brčić Karačonji I, Jurica K, Lasić D, Bursać Kovačević D. Development of a Pressurized Green Liquid Extraction Procedure to Recover Antioxidant Bioactive Compounds from Strawberry Tree Fruit ( Arbutus unedo L.). Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:2006. [PMID: 37653923 PMCID: PMC10223544 DOI: 10.3390/plants12102006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Strawberry tree fruits (Arbutus unedo L.) are a natural source of valuable biologically active compounds. Therefore, the aim of this work was to develop a green extraction approach using pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) to provide the highest yield of bioactive compounds. Different extraction solvents (distilled water, 50% and 96% ethanol) and different PLE parameters were investigated: temperature (40, 80, and 120 °C), static extraction time (5 and 10 min), and number of cycles (1 and 2). Total phenolic contents (TPC), hydroxycinnamic acids (HCA), flavonols (FL), total flavonoids (TF), condensed tannins (CT), and antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP) were determined in PLE extracts. Solvent type, temperature, static extraction time, and number of cycles had a statistically significant effect on all bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity (p ≤ 0.05). All bioactive compounds were positively correlated with temperature, except for TPC and DPPH. For all polyphenols studied, the optimal PLE parameters were a temperature of 120 °C, a static extraction time of 10 min and 2 cycles. The best solvent for most bioactive compounds was 96% ethanol, except for TPC, for which 50% ethanol was better. This study suggests that PLE is a promising tool to intensify the extraction of bioactive compounds from strawberry tree fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anica Bebek Markovinović
- Faculty of Food Technology and of Biotechnology, University Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Sanja Milošević
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Blvd. Cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (S.M.); (B.P.)
| | - Nemanja Teslić
- Institute of Food Technology, University of Novi Sad, Blvd. Cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Branimir Pavlić
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Blvd. Cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (S.M.); (B.P.)
| | - Predrag Putnik
- Department of Food Technology, University North, Trg dr. Žarka Dolinara 1, 48000 Koprivnica, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica Grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Dario Lasić
- Andrija Štampar Teaching Institute for Public Health, Mirogojska 16, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Danijela Bursać Kovačević
- Faculty of Food Technology and of Biotechnology, University Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Jurič A, Brčić Karačonji I, Gašić U, Milojković Opsenica D, Prđun S, Bubalo D, Lušić D, Vahčić N, Kopjar N. Protective Effects of Arbutus unedo L. Honey in the Alleviation of Irinotecan-Induced Cytogenetic Damage in Human Lymphocytes-An In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031903. [PMID: 36768223 PMCID: PMC9916164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) honey (STH) has been used since ancient times as a folk medicine remedy, especially in certain Mediterranean countries. This honey, rich in phenolic content, is well recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, and is used for the treatment of skin lesions as well as gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders. This study investigated whether STH alleviates genome damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes produced by the cytotoxic drug irinotecan. The phenolic profile of STH was previously estimated by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a linear ion trap-Orbitrap hybrid mass spectrometer. The effects of STH were evaluated at three concentrations (1×, 5×, and 10×), based on the daily consumption of the honey by an adult person. After 2 h of in vitro exposure, standard lymphocyte cultures for the analysis of chromosome aberrations and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay were established. Our results demonstrate that STH offered remarkable geno- and cytoprotection when administered with irinotecan. These findings are relevant for drawing preliminary conclusions regarding the in vitro safety of the tested honey. However, further studies are needed with the application of more complex experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
- Correspondence:
| | - Uroš Gašić
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Saša Prđun
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dragan Bubalo
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dražen Lušić
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Braće Branchetta 20, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Nada Vahčić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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9
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Brčić Karačonji I, Jurica K, Gašić U, Dramićanin A, Tešić Ž, Milojković Opsenica D. Comparative Study on the Phenolic Fingerprint and Antioxidant Activity of Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo L.) Leaves and Fruits. Plants 2021; 11:plants11010025. [PMID: 35009028 PMCID: PMC8747429 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae family) is an evergreen Mediterranean shrub whose leaves and fruits are used in traditional medicine due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, diuretic, and antiproliferative properties. The health benefits are mainly attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to compare the phenolic profiles, total phenolic content (TPC), and radical scavenging activity (RSA) of A. unedo leaves and fruits collected at two locations in Croatia. Phenolic profiles were identified using an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatograph (UHPLC) coupled with a hybrid mass spectrometer (LTQ Orbitrap MS). TPC was determined by Folin–Ciocalteu’s assay, while RSA was investigated using DPPH reagent. A total of 64 phenolics (60 and 42 compounds in leaves and fruits, respectively) were identified. Hyperoside and flavan-3-ols were predominant compounds in leaves, while gallocatechin and catechin were the major compounds found in fruits. To the authors’ knowledge, 16 and 5 phenolics in leaves and fruits, respectively, were reported for the first time. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that UHPLC-LTQ Orbitrap MS could be used to identify which phenolics were able to discriminate samples regarding plant tissue and geographical origin. TPC in leaves and fruits were in the ranges of 67.07–104.74 and 16.78–25.86 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dried weight (dw), respectively. RSA for leaves and fruits were in the ranges of 408.92–430.98 and 74.30–104.04 μmol Trolox equivalents (TE)/g dw, respectively. The number of identified phenolics was lower in fruits compared to leaves. Such a large number of bioactive phenolics identified and the strong antioxidant activity pointed to A. unedo as a promising health-promoting plant and natural food preservative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
- Correspondence: (I.B.K.); (U.G.)
| | - Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Uroš Gašić
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: (I.B.K.); (U.G.)
| | - Aleksandra Dramićanin
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11158 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.D.); (Ž.T.); (D.M.O.)
| | - Živoslav Tešić
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11158 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.D.); (Ž.T.); (D.M.O.)
| | - Dušanka Milojković Opsenica
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11158 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.D.); (Ž.T.); (D.M.O.)
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10
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Jurič A, Brčić Karačonji I, Kopjar N. Homogentisic acid, a main phenolic constituent of strawberry tree honey, protects human peripheral blood lymphocytes against irinotecan-induced cytogenetic damage in vitro. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 349:109672. [PMID: 34560068 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Homogentisic acid (HGA) is the most abundant phenolic compound in strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) honey and an intermediate in the metabolism of phenylalanine and tyrosine. Since HGA exerts its dual nature (pro-oxidant and antioxidant), which depends on the concentration and cell type, the aim of study was to determine whether HGA possess cytoprotective effects and could counteract the cyto- and genotoxic effects of the antineoplastic drug irinotecan (IRI). Tested concentrations corresponded to HGA content in average daily dose of strawberry tree honey as well as five- and ten-fold higher concentrations. Cyto- and genoprotective effects were tested on human peripheral blood lymphocytes using chromosomal aberrations assay and cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay. HGA, even at concentrations 10-fold higher than the one present in the daily amount of consumed strawberry tree honey, posed a non-significant cytotoxic threat to lymphocytes, had a negligible potential for causing cytogenetic damage in treated cells, and did not significantly impair their proliferation. Results of the chromosomal aberration assay and CBMN Cyt assay also showed that HGA efficiently counteracted the detrimental cytogenetic effects of IRI in vitro. The finding on cyto- and genoprotective effects of HGA merits further research in order to better explain the safety profile of this compound and to assess its potency for the development of novel nutraceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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11
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Jurica K, Brčić Karačonji I, Lasić D, Bursać Kovačević D, Putnik P. Unauthorized Food Manipulation as a Criminal Offense: Food Authenticity, Legal Frameworks, Analytical Tools and Cases. Foods 2021; 10:foods10112570. [PMID: 34828851 PMCID: PMC8624002 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Food fraud is a criminal intent motivated by economic gain to adulterate or misrepresent food ingredients and packaging. The development of a reliable food supply system is at great risk under globalization, but Food Business Operators (FBOs) have a legal obligation to implement and maintain food traceability and quality at all stages of food production, processing, and distribution. Incidents of food fraud have a strong negative impact on consumer confidence in the food industry. Therefore, local and international regulatory mechanisms are established to prevent or mitigate food fraud. This review brings new perspectives linking EU and US legislation, as well as new definitions and descriptions of the criminal aspect of food fraud incidents. It also describes certain new insights into the application of state-of-the-art methods and techniques that provide valuable tools for geographic, botanical, or other chemical markers of food authenticity. The review also provides an overview of the most common cases of food fraud worldwide from 2010 to 2020. Further research is needed to support the development of predictive models for innovative approaches to adulteration, especially when some valuable nutrients are replaced by toxic ingredients. A possible solution to minimize food fraud incidents is to increase the level of risk-based inspections, establish more productive monitoring and implementation of food protection systems in the supply chain, and implement better ingredient control and certification. National and international (e.g., regional) police offices for food fraud should be introduced, possessing knowledge and skills in food, food safety, food processing, and food products, as initial positive results have emerged in some countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica Grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Viktora Cara Emina 5, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dario Lasić
- Andrija Štampar Teaching Institute for Public Health, Mirogojska 16, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Danijela Bursać Kovačević
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierottijeva 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Predrag Putnik
- Department of Food Technology, University North, Trg dr. Žarka Dolinara 1, 48000 Koprivnica, Croatia
- Correspondence:
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12
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Kopjar N, Fuchs N, Brčić Karačonji I, Žunec S, Katić A, Kozina G, Lucić Vrdoljak A. High Doses of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Might Impair Irinotecan Chemotherapy: A Review of Potentially Harmful Interactions. Clin Drug Investig 2020; 40:775-787. [PMID: 32696321 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-020-00954-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review proposes the hypothesis that the effectiveness of irinotecan chemotherapy might be impaired by high doses of concomitantly administered Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The most important features shared by irinotecan and THC, which might represent sources of potentially harmful interactions are: first-pass hepatic metabolism mediated by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme CYP3A4; glucuronidation mediated by uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, isoforms 1A1 and 1A9; transport of parent compounds and their metabolites via canalicular ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters ABCB1 and ABCG2; enterohepatic recirculation of both parent compounds, which leads to an extended duration of their pharmacological effects; possible competition for binding to albumin; butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition by THC, which might impair the conversion of parent irinotecan into the SN-38 metabolite; mutual effects on mitochondrial dysfunction and induction of oxidative stress; potentiation of hepatotoxicity; potentiation of genotoxicity and cytogenetic effects leading to genome instability; possible neurotoxicity; and effects on bilirubin. The controversies associated with the use of highly concentrated THC preparations with irinotecan chemotherapy are also discussed. Despite all of the limitations, the body of evidence provided here could be considered relevant for human-risk assessments and calls for concern in cases when irinotecan chemotherapy is accompanied by preparations rich in THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevenka Kopjar
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Fuchs
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Suzana Žunec
- Toxicology Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Katić
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Kozina
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, Varaždin, Croatia
| | - Ana Lucić Vrdoljak
- Toxicology Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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13
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Pizent A, Lazarus M, Kovačić J, Tariba Lovaković B, Brčić Karačonji I, Živković Semren T, Sekovanić A, Orct T, Branović-Čakanić K, Brajenović N, Jurič A, Miškulin I, Škrgatić L, Stasenko S, Mioč T, Jurasović J, Piasek M. Cigarette Smoking during Pregnancy: Effects on Antioxidant Enzymes, Metallothionein and Trace Elements in Mother-Newborn Pairs. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E892. [PMID: 32532134 PMCID: PMC7356311 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of maternal smoking as a source of exposure to toxic metals Cd and Pb on superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, metallothionein (MT), Cd, Pb, Cu, Fe, Mn, Se and Zn concentrations were assessed in maternal and umbilical cord blood and placenta in 74 healthy mother-newborn pairs after term delivery. Sparse discriminant analysis (SDA) was used to identify elements with the strongest impact on the SOD, GPx and MT in the measured compartments, which was then quantified by multiple regression analysis. SOD activity was lower in maternal and cord plasma, and higher in the placenta of smokers compared to non-smokers, whereas GPx activity and MT concentration did not differ between the groups. Although active smoking during pregnancy contributed to higher maternal Cd and Pb concentrations, its contribution to the variability of SOD, GPx or MT after control for other elements identified by SDA was not significant. However, an impaired balance in the antioxidant defence observed in the conditions of relatively low-to-moderate exposure levels to Cd and Pb could contribute to an increased susceptibility of offspring to oxidative stress and risk of disease development later in life. Further study on a larger number of subjects will help to better understand complex interactions between exposure to toxic elements and oxidative stress related to maternal cigarette smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alica Pizent
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Maja Lazarus
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Jelena Kovačić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Blanka Tariba Lovaković
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Tanja Živković Semren
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Ankica Sekovanić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Tatjana Orct
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | | | - Nataša Brajenović
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Iva Miškulin
- University Hospital Centre, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (I.M.); (L.Š.)
| | - Lana Škrgatić
- University Hospital Centre, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (I.M.); (L.Š.)
| | - Sandra Stasenko
- Merkur University Hospital, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Tatjana Mioč
- Merkur University Hospital, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Jasna Jurasović
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Martina Piasek
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.P.); (J.K.); (B.T.L.); (I.B.K.); (T.Ž.S.); (A.S.); (T.O.); (N.B.); (A.J.); (J.J.); (M.P.)
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14
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Kopjar N, Fuchs N, Žunec S, Mikolić A, Micek V, Kozina G, Lucić Vrdoljak A, Brčić Karačonji I. DNA Damaging Effects, Oxidative Stress Responses and Cholinesterase Activity in Blood and Brain of Wistar Rats Exposed to Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol. Molecules 2019; 24:E1560. [PMID: 31010235 PMCID: PMC6515386 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24081560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently we are faced with an ever-growing use of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) preparations, often used as supportive therapies for various malignancies and neurological disorders. As some of illegally distributed forms of such preparations, like cannabis oils and butane hash oil, might contain over 80% of THC, their consumers can become intoxicated or experience various detrimental effects. This fact motivated us for the assessments of THC toxicity in vivo on a Wistar rat model, at a daily oral dose of 7 mg/kg which is comparable to those found in illicit preparations. The main objective of the present study was to establish the magnitude and dynamics of DNA breakage associated with THC exposure in white blood and brain cells of treated rats using the alkaline comet assay. The extent of oxidative stress after acute 24 h exposure to THC was also determined as well as changes in activities of plasma and brain cholinesterases (ChE) in THC-treated and control rats. The DNA of brain cells was more prone to breakage after THC treatment compared to DNA in white blood cells. Even though DNA damage quantified by the alkaline comet assay is subject to repair, its elevated level detected in the brain cells of THC-treated rats was reason for concern. Since neurons do not proliferate, increased levels of DNA damage present threats to these cells in terms of both viability and genome stability, while inefficient DNA repair might lead to their progressive loss. The present study contributes to existing knowledge with evidence that acute exposure to a high THC dose led to low-level DNA damage in white blood cells and brain cells of rats and induced oxidative stress in brain, but did not disturb ChE activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb HR-10001, Croatia.
| | - Nino Fuchs
- University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb HR-10000 Croatia.
| | - Suzana Žunec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb HR-10001, Croatia.
| | - Anja Mikolić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb HR-10001, Croatia.
| | - Vedran Micek
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb HR-10001, Croatia.
| | - Goran Kozina
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, Varaždin HR-42000, Croatia.
| | - Ana Lucić Vrdoljak
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb HR-10001, Croatia.
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15
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Jurica K, Benković V, Sikirić S, Brčić Karačonji I, Kopjar N. The effects of strawberry tree ( Arbutus unedo L.) water leaf extract and arbutin upon kidney function and primary DNA damage in renal cells of rats. Nat Prod Res 2018; 34:2354-2357. [PMID: 30417709 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2018.1534106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Although strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) leaves have long been used as a herbal remedy, insufficient information is available on their nephrotoxicity. We assessed the safety of strawberry tree water leaf extract and its key component arbutin, administered per os to Lewis rats of both genders at 200 mg/kg b.w./day for 14 and 28 days. The effects of the tested compounds on DNA integrity in renal cells was evaluated using alkaline comet assay, while kidney function was studied using serum creatinine and urea levels. Strawberry tree water leaf extract showed high biocompatibility with kidney tissue. It did not impair DNA integrity of renal cells and kidney function, either in male or female rats. However, exposure to single arbutin affected the levels of primary DNA damage in renal cells which could be related to metabolic conversion of arbutin into hydroquinone, whose nephrotoxicity has previously been proven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vesna Benković
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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16
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Kljaković-Gašpić Z, Herceg Romanić S, Bituh T, Kašuba V, Brčić Karačonji I, Brajenović N, Franulović I, Jurasović J, Klinčić D, Kopjar N, Marović G, Milić M, Orct T, Sekovanić A, Želježić D. Assessment of multiple anthropogenic contaminants and their potential genotoxicity in the aquatic environment of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. Environ Monit Assess 2018; 190:694. [PMID: 30382413 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-7028-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the influence of anthropogenic pollution on the aquatic environment of Plitvice Lakes National Park (PLNP) was investigated during 2011-2012 using a combination of chemical and cytogenetic analyses. Four groups of major contaminants [(volatile organic compounds: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX); persistent organochlorine pollutants: organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); major and trace elements; anthropogenic radionuclides (90Sr, 134Cs, and 137Cs)] were determined in three aquatic compartments (water, sediment, fish). Mass fractions of inorganic constituents in different compartments reflected the geological background of the area, indicating their origin from predominantly natural sources. Levels of volatile and persistent organic compounds in water and fish, respectively, were very low, at levels typical for remote pristine areas. Analysis of anthropogenic radionuclides in water and sediment revealed elevated activity concentrations of 137Cs in water, and measurable 134Cs in the upper sediment layers from April 2011, possibly as a consequence of the Fukushima nuclear accident in March 2011. The potential genotoxicity of river and lake water and lake sediment was assessed under laboratory conditions using the alkaline comet assay on human peripheral blood lymphocytes, and measured levels of primary DNA damage were within acceptable boundaries. The results showed that despite the protected status of the park, anthropogenic impact exists in both its terrestrial and aquatic components. Although contaminant levels were low, further monitoring is recommended to make sure that they will not rise and cause potentially hazardous anthropogenic impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorana Kljaković-Gašpić
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Snježana Herceg Romanić
- Biochemistry and Organic Analytical Chemistry Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Tomislav Bituh
- Radiation Protection Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vilena Kašuba
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nataša Brajenović
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Franulović
- Radiation Protection Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jasna Jurasović
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Darija Klinčić
- Biochemistry and Organic Analytical Chemistry Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Gordana Marović
- Radiation Protection Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirta Milić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Orct
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ankica Sekovanić
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Želježić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, PO Box 291, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia
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Prester L, Mikolić A, Jurič A, Fuchs N, Neuberg M, Lucić Vrdoljak A, Brčić Karačonji I. Effects of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on irinotecan-induced clinical effects in rats. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 294:128-134. [PMID: 30130528 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Because of the great interest for research on the potential use of cannabis preparations as co-medication for alleviation of toxic effects in cancer management, we investigated the influence of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) to modulate irinotecan (CPT-11)-induced toxicity. Male Wistar rats were treated either with a single irinotecan intraperitoneal dose, 100 mg/kg body-weight (b.w.), or with irinotecan in combination with THC (7 mg/kg b.w., p.o., administered repeatedly for 1, 3 and 7 days). Serial blood samples were obtained up to seven days after dosing and were analyzed for complete blood count and biochemical parameters (liver enzymes, creatinine, inflammatory markers, and lipid status). Serial urine samples were collected in the first 24 h to monitor the time-course of THC metabolite 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-THC (THC-COOH) excretion with concomitant irinotecan treatment or without. Both irinotecan and irinotecan + Δ9-THC administration caused moderate leukopenia but a greater decrease in leukocyte count was observed in the irinotecan + Δ9-THC treated compared to the single irinotecan suggesting higher cytotoxic effects in combined treatment. Irinotecan treatment induced elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in rats without diarrheal symptoms and without an increase in circulating pro-inflammatory mediators. Interestingly, the elevation of AST was not observed in the irinotecan + Δ9-THC group. The median creatinine-corrected urinary THC-COOH concentration was higher in the irinotecan + THC group compared to the THC-only group in a time-dependent manner, suggesting a possible early interaction between cannabinoids and irinotecan. Further studies are needed to investigate the role of cannabinoids particularly on hematological toxicity, irinotecan metabolism and their role as a possible modifiable factor among irinotecan-treated hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljerka Prester
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Mikolić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Fuchs
- University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Jurica K, Benković V, Sikirić S, Kopjar N, Brčić Karačonji I. Liver function and DNA integrity in hepatocytes of rats evaluated after treatments with strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) water leaf extract and arbutin. Drug Chem Toxicol 2018; 43:127-137. [DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2018.1477794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vesna Benković
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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Lucić Vrdoljak A, Fuchs N, Mikolić A, Žunec S, Brčić Karačonji I, Jurič A, Prester L, Micek V, Neuberg M, Čanović S, Mršić G, Kopjar N. Irinotecan and Δ⁸-Tetrahydrocannabinol Interactions in Rat Liver: A Preliminary Evaluation Using Biochemical and Genotoxicity Markers. Molecules 2018; 23:E1332. [PMID: 29865166 PMCID: PMC6100385 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23061332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing interest regarding the use of herbal preparations based on Cannabis sativa for medicinal purposes, despite the poorly understood interactions of their main constituent Δ⁸-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with conventional drugs, especially cytostatics. The objective of this pilot study was to prove whether the concomitant intake of THC impaired liver function in male Wistar rats treated with the anticancer drug irinotecan (IRI), and evaluate the toxic effects associated with this exposure. IRI was administered once intraperitoneally (at 100 mg/kg of the body weight (b.w.)), while THC was administered per os repeatedly for 1, 3, and 7 days (at 7 mg/kg b.w.). Functional liver impairments were studied using biochemical markers of liver function (aspartate aminotransferase-AST, alanine aminotransferase-ALP, alkaline phosphatase-AP, and bilirubin) in rats given a combined treatment, single IRI, single THC, and control groups. Using common oxidative stress biomarkers, along with measurement of primary DNA damage in hepatocytes, the degree of impairments caused at the cellular level was also evaluated. THC caused a time-dependent enhancement of acute toxicity in IRI-treated rats, which was confirmed by body and liver weight reduction. Although single THC affected ALP and AP levels more than single IRI, the levels of liver function markers measured after the administration of a combined treatment mostly did not significantly differ from control. Combined exposure led to increased oxidative stress responses in 3- and 7-day treatments, compared to single IRI. Single IRI caused the highest DNA damage at all timepoints. Continuous 7-day oral exposure to single THC caused an increased mean value of comet tail length compared to its shorter treatments. Concomitant intake of THC slightly affected the levels of IRI genotoxicity at all timepoints, but not in a consistent manner. Further studies are needed to prove our preliminary observations, clarify the underlying mechanisms behind IRI and THC interactions, and unambiguously confirm or reject the assumptions made herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lucić Vrdoljak
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Nino Fuchs
- University Hospital Centre Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Anja Mikolić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Suzana Žunec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | - Andreja Jurič
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ljerka Prester
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vedran Micek
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marijana Neuberg
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, HR-42000 Varaždin, Croatia.
| | | | - Gordan Mršić
- Forensic Science Centre "Ivan Vučetić", HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Jurica K, Brčić Karačonji I, Kopjar N, Shek-Vugrovečki A, Cikač T, Benković V. The effects of strawberry tree water leaf extract, arbutin and hydroquinone on haematological parameters and levels of primary DNA damage in white blood cells of rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 215:83-90. [PMID: 29288828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) leaves represent a potent source of biologically active compounds and have been used for a long to relieve symptoms of various health impairments and diseases. Two major compounds related to their beneficial activities in animals and humans are arbutin and hydroquinone. AIM OF THE STUDY To establish potential benefit/risk ratio associated with daily oral administration of strawberry tree water leaf extract, arbutin and hydroquinone in doses expected to be non-toxic. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a 14-day and a 28-day study on male and female Lewis rats and evaluated main haematological parameters and the effects of treatments on the levels of primary DNA damage in white blood cells (WBC) using the alkaline comet assay. RESULTS Our findings suggest no significant changes in the haematological parameters following prolonged exposure to strawberry tree water leaf extract, arbutin, and hydroquinone. However, hydroquinone causes increased, and extract as well as arbutin decreased WBC count in male rats compared to control after 14 days of treatment. DNA damage measured in WBC of rats treated with all compounds was below 10% of the DNA in the comet tail, which indicates low genotoxicity. The genotoxic potential of strawberry water leaf extract was within acceptable limits and reflected effects of a complex chemical composition upon DNA. We also observed slight gender- and exposure time- related differences in primary DNA damage in the leucocytes of control and treated rats. CONCLUSIONS Future studies should investigate which doses of strawberry tree water leaf extract would be most promising for the potential use as a substitute for bearberry leaves for treatment of urinary infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Jurica
- Special Security Operations Directorate, Ministry of the Interior, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Tihana Cikač
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vesna Benković
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Tariba Lovaković B, Lazarus M, Brčić Karačonji I, Jurica K, Živković Semren T, Lušić D, Brajenović N, Pelaić Z, Pizent A. Multi-elemental composition and antioxidant properties of strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) honey from the coastal region of Croatia: Risk-benefit analysis. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2018; 45:85-92. [PMID: 29173488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The concentration of 23 major and trace elements, total phenolic content (TPC) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were determined in nine samples of strawberry tree honey and compared to other types of unifloral honeys. The most abundant elements in strawberry tree honey were potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium, ranging between 1276 and 2367, 95.2-154, 14.4-74.4 and 13.4-64.3mg/kg, respectively. Strawberry tree honey had generally higher TPC (range: 0.314-0.522g GA/kg) and DPPH (1.94-4.45mM TE/kg) compared to other analysed unifloral honeys. A strong positive relationship was found between TPC and DPPH, TPC and concentration of homogentisic acid (HGA), chemical marker of strawberry tree honey, and between DPPH and HGA. Regarding daily intake of essential elements, strawberry tree honey can be considered nutritionally richer than the majority of unifloral honeys available in Croatia, while contribution to tolerable intake set for potentially toxic elements was very low, corresponding to pristine areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Tariba Lovaković
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Maja Lazarus
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Karlo Jurica
- Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia, Ulica grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Tanja Živković Semren
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Dražen Lušić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Braće Branchetta 20/1, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Nataša Brajenović
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Zdenka Pelaić
- Centre for Food Technology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Petra Kasandrića 3, 23000 Zadar, Croatia.
| | - Alica Pizent
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Mikolić A, Kašuba V, Micek V, Karačonji IB, Želježić D. Effects of exposure to tembotrione during gestation on serum oestradiol and testosterone levels in neonatal rats. Toxicol Lett 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.07.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Karačonji IB, Jurič A, Brajenović N, Klinčić D, Romanić SH, Sarić MM. Optimisation of headspace solid phase microextraction for the analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in human milk samples. Toxicol Lett 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.07.822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Karačonji IB, Jurica SA, Lasić D, Jurica K. Facts about phthalate toxicity in humans and their occurrence in alcoholic beverages. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2017; 68:81-92. [DOI: 10.1515/aiht-2017-68-2951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Phthalates are esters of phthalic acid and aliphatic alcohol added to plastic to improve its softness, flexibility, and extensibility. They easily migrate from plastic products into the environment because of their physical and chemical properties. This review summarises their characteristics, distribution in the environment, monitoring, use, toxic effects on human health, regulatory limits in different matrices and products, and tolerable daily intake. The studies we have reviewed suggest that phthalates have a potential to affect reproduction and development in humans. Due to the inconsistent data, further studies are needed and, in the meantime, precautionary policies must be implemented. Here we draw attention to the methods of determining phthalate levels in alcoholic beverages and reported levels in plum spirits produced in Croatia. Legally produced and moderately consumed plum spirits do not seem to increase the risk of phthalate toxicity for human health. We conclude with recommendations for the effective monitoring of phthalate exposure in humans and for the implementation of alternative materials in alcohol production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Brčić Karačonji
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Sonja Anić Jurica
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Dario Lasić
- Department of Environmental Protection and Health Ecology, Andrija Štampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Karlo Jurica
- PhD, Ministry of the Interior, Ulica grada Vukovara 33, 10000 Zagreb , Croatia
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Jurica K, Gobin I, Kremer D, Čepo DV, Grubešić RJ, Karačonji IB, Kosalec I. Arbutin and its metabolite hydroquinone as the main factors in the antimicrobial effect of strawberry tree ( Arbutus unedo L.) leaves. J Herb Med 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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26
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Jurica K, Karačonji IB, Šegan S, Opsenica DM, Kremer D. Quantitative analysis of arbutin and hydroquinone in strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) leaves by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2017; 66:197-202. [PMID: 26444340 DOI: 10.1515/aiht-2015-66-2696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The phenolic glycoside arbutin and its metabolite with uroantiseptic activity hydroquinone occur naturally in the leaves of various medicinal plants and spices. In this study, an extraction procedure coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was developed to determine arbutin and hydroquinone content in strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) leaves. The method showed good linearity (R2>0.9987) in the tested concentration range (0.5-200 μg mL(-1)), as well as good precision (RSD<5%), analytical recovery (96.2-98.0%), and sensitivity (limit of detection=0.009 and 0.004 μg mL(-1) for arbutin and hydroquinone, respectively). The results obtained by the validated GC-MS method corresponded well to those obtained by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The proposed method was then applied for determining arbutin and hydroquinone content in methanolic leaf extracts. The amount of arbutin in the leaves collected on the island of Koločep (6.82 mg g(-1) dry weight) was found to be higher (tpaired=43.57, tc=2.92) in comparison to the amount of arbutin in the leaves collected on the island of Mali Lošinj (2.75 mg g(-1) dry weight). Hydroquinone was not detected in any of the samples. The analytical features of the proposed GC-MS method demonstrated that arbutin and hydroquinone could be determined alternatively by gas chromatography. Due to its wide concentration range, the method could also be suitable for arbutin and hydroquinone analysis in leaves of other plant families (Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, etc.).
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27
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Piasek M, Jurasović J, Sekovanić A, Brajenović N, Brčić Karačonji I, Mikolić A, Grgec AS, Stasenko S. Placental cadmium as an additional noninvasive bioindicator of active maternal tobacco smoking. J Toxicol Environ Health A 2016; 79:443-446. [PMID: 27210017 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1165640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Tobacco smoke (TS) is a mixture of chemicals that is known to exert carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects, as well as adverse effects on various systems. In TS nicotine is the major alkaloid and cadmium (Cd) the most abundant metal ion. The aim of this investigation was to assess exposure to Cd attributed to TS in healthy postpartum subjects (mean age 28 years) after term vaginal delivery in a clinical hospital by determining metal levels in maternal blood, placenta, and cord blood in relation to nicotine in maternal hair (12-cm-long samples). Two study groups were compared based upon self-reporting data: smokers (n = 32; continual cigarette smoking 3 months before and 9 months during pregnancy) and nonsmokers (n = 54; including passive smokers whose parameters did not differ from unexposed nonsmokers). In smokers compared to nonsmokers maternal hair nicotine concentrations increased approximately sevenfold, while Cd levels rose fourfold in maternal blood and up to twofold in placenta. Significant positive correlations were noted between maternal hair nicotine and placental Cd, maternal hair nicotine and maternal blood Cd, and placental Cd and maternal blood Cd. Levels of cord blood Cd were low in both study groups (<0.1 ng/ml). Data indicate that Cd in placenta may serve as a noninvasive bioindicator in addition to commonly used noninvasive hair nicotine in maternal TS assessment, especially in cases where unavailable or inappropriate (short or chemically treated) hair samples occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Piasek
- a Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Jasna Jurasović
- a Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Ankica Sekovanić
- a Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Nataša Brajenović
- a Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | | | - Anja Mikolić
- a Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
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Brajenović N, Karačonji IB, Bulog A. Evaluation of Urinary Btex, Nicotine, and Cotinine as Biomarkers of Airborne Pollutants in Nonsmokers and Smokers. J Toxicol Environ Health A 2015; 78:1133-6. [PMID: 26460693 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1066286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and isomeric xylenes (BTEX) are by-products of tobacco smoke and traffic emissions. The aim of this study was to determine the contribution of cigarette smoking to urinary levels of BTEX present in humans. Nicotine and cotinine, biomarkers of exposure to tobacco smoke, as well as BTEX, were measured in urine of smokers (n = 70) and nonsmokers (n = 65) using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In smokers, a significant correlation was found between urinary BTEX levels and nicotine and cotinine. In addition, significant regression models with nicotine and cotinine as predictors showed that BTEX in smokers' urine was predominantly derived from exposure to tobacco smoke. In nonsmokers a weak correlation between BTEX and nicotine and cotinine was found in urine. Further, there was a lack of significant contribution of BTEX to urinary nicotine and cotinine concentrations in nonsmokers. Thus, it was presumed that vehicle exhaust was the main source of exposure to BTEX in nonsmokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Brajenović
- a Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit , Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Irena Brčić Karačonji
- a Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit , Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Aleksandar Bulog
- b Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Medicine , University of Rijeka , Rijeka , Croatia
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Brajenović N, Karačonji IB, Mikolić A, Stasenko S, Piasek M. Tobacco smoke and pregnancy: segmental analysis of nicotine in maternal hair. Arch Environ Occup Health 2013; 68:117-122. [PMID: 23428062 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2012.658121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The investigation assessed nicotine metabolism prior to and during pregnancy in relation to different maternal smoking habits. It included segmental hair analysis in 3 groups of postpartum women: 32 active smokers, 35 passive smokers, and 19 unexposed nonsmokers. Maternal hair at least 12 cm long was collected after delivery and was divided into four 3-cm-long segments representing each trimester of pregnancy and the 3 months prior to pregnancy. Hair nicotine concentration was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Nicotine levels were the highest in the 3-month period before pregnancy and it gradually decreased with advancing gestation in all study groups. These results suggest that when assessing tobacco exposure as measured by nicotine in hair, metabolic changes of nicotine during pregnancy should be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Brajenović
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, HR-10001 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Brčić Karačonji I, Zimić L, Brajenović N, Skender L. Optimisation of a solid-phase microextraction method for the analysis of nicotine in hair. J Sep Sci 2011; 34:2726-31. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2011] [Revised: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 06/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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