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Lanza B, Panato A, Valentini L, Rodegher P, Bortolotti F, Battistelli M, Ninfali P, Gobbi P. A morphological analysis of fresh and brine-cured olives attacked by <em>Bactrocera oleae</em> using light microscopy and ESEM-EDS. Eur J Histochem 2020; 64. [PMID: 33029995 PMCID: PMC7520706 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3149] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the morphology of fresh and brine-cured table olives (TOs) as well as the changes that occur when drupes are attacked by the fruit fly Bactrocera oleae. Morphological analyses were performed using light microscopy (LM) and environmental scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (ESEM-EDS). The LM analysis was carried out with bright-field microscopy to evaluate sections stained with either PAS or Azan mixtures as well as unstained sections observed at fluorescence microscopy. The results of the analyses showed that: i) Azan and PAS staining played a useful complementary role, increasing the information provided by the histological analysis. Indeed, in both fresh and brine-cured TOs, epidermal layers and mesocarpal cells were clearly revealed, including sclereid cells. The histological analysis allowed also identifying the presence of secoiridoid-biophenols (seco-BPs) in both cell walls and vacuoles, as well as in the drupe regions that had been attacked by fruit flies, where they were found at higher concentrations; ii) In fresh and brine-cured olives, the excitation at 480 nm revealed the distribution of the fluorophores, among which the seco-BP are enclosed; iii) the ESEM-EDS analysis revealed the natural morphology of fresh olives, including the dimensions of their cell layers and the size and depth of the mechanical barriers of suberized or necrotic cells around the larva holes. In addition, the elemental composition of regions of interest of the drupe was determined in fresh and brine-cured TOs. The results highlighted the effectiveness of combined use of LM and ESEM-EDS in order to obtain a picture, as complete as possible, of the structural morphology of TOs. Such analytical combined approach can be used to support multidisciplinary studies aimed at the selection of new cultivars more resistant to fly attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lanza
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing (CREA-IT), Pescara.
| | - Anna Panato
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona.
| | - Laura Valentini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino.
| | - Pamela Rodegher
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona.
| | | | - Michela Battistelli
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino.
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino.
| | - Pietro Gobbi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino.
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Ninfali P, Antonelli A, Magnani M, Scarpa ES. Antiviral Properties of Flavonoids and Delivery Strategies. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092534. [PMID: 32825564 PMCID: PMC7551920 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [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: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the latest advancements in phytochemicals as functional antiviral agents. We focused on flavonoids, like apigenin, vitexin, quercetin, rutin and naringenin, which have shown a wide range of biological effects including antiviral activities. The molecular mechanisms of their antiviral effects mainly consist in the inhibition of viral neuraminidase, proteases and DNA/RNA polymerases, as well as in the modification of various viral proteins. Mixtures of different flavonoids or combination of flavonoids with antiviral synthetic drugs provide an enhancement of their antiviral effects. Recent strategies in drug delivery significantly contribute to overcoming the low bioavailability of flavonoids. Frequent viral infections worldwide have led to the need for new effective antiviral agents, which can be identified among the various phytochemicals. In this light, screening the antiviral activities of a cocktail of flavonoids would be advantageous in order to prevent viral infections and improve current antiviral therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mauro Magnani
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (E.S.S.); Tel.: +39-0722-305-211 (M.M.); +39-0722-305-252 (E.S.S.)
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Ninfali P, Panato A, Bortolotti F, Valentini L, Gobbi P. Morphological analysis of the seeds of three pseudocereals by using light microscopy and ESEM-EDS. Eur J Histochem 2020; 64. [PMID: 31941265 PMCID: PMC6985911 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The seed morphology of three pseudocereal grains (PSCg), i.e. quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd, Chenopodiaceae), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench, Polygonaceae) and amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus L., Amaranthaceae) was studied by light microscopy (LM) and Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (ESEM-EDS). LM was used with visible light to evaluate either unstained sections or sections stained with Azan mixture, and with fluorescent light. The aim of the study was to compare the architecture of the three seeds in order to connect their morphology with nutrient localization. The Azan staining allowed for the visualization of the seed coat, the embryo - with its shoot apical meristem - and the radicle cell layers, whereas the use of fluorescence microscopy identified the cells rich in phenolic compounds. Finally, the ESEM-EDS analysis revealed that the seed coat of the quinoa was thinner than that of amaranth or buckwheat. In all PSCg, starch granules appeared to be located in large polygonal cells, surrounded by a thin cell wall. Several globoids of proteins were observed in the embryo cells. In the radicle section, the vascular bundles of the procambium were evident, while Amaranth only showed a consistent layer of calcium crystals, located between the embryo and the perisperm. The morphological differences of the three PSCg were discussed in the context of their structural resistance to processing technologies which impact on nutritional value of derived foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo.
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Lanza B, Ninfali P. Antioxidants in Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Table Olives: Connections between Agriculture and Processing for Health Choices. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E41. [PMID: 31906540 PMCID: PMC7023406 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [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: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
: This review focuses on the conditions required to increase and maintain the antioxidant nutrients in both extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and table olives (TOs) from the agronomic and technological practices to the gastronomy. The main antioxidants of TOs and EVOO are phenol alcohols and acids, secoiridoids, lignans and flavones, all of which possess the ability to prolong the oil's shelf-life and exhibit healthy properties for humans. The precise detection of secoiridoid derivatives remains the breakthrough for the nutritional and health quality certification of extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) required for EFSA health claims. To attain the necessary antioxidant quality in both EVOO and TOs, it is necessary to hard focus on the several steps in the production chain, including olive cultivar, agronomic conditions, harvesting methods, and transformation technology. The quality level is maintained if the storage conditions aim to minimize the oxidative processes that occur due to oxygen and light. In terms of minor polar biophenols, there is disagreement on which between the organic or conventional EVOOs show higher concentration values. The strict disciplinary of production of protected designation EVOOs does not ensure higher phenol values in comparison to the artisanal EVOOs. In gastronomy, the EVOOs are preferable to seed oils, particularly during frying vegetable. The EVOOs show higher heat stability, linked both to the fatty acid composition and the phenol content, that is important for preventing fatty acids oxidation. Concerning TOs, the commercial presentation includes olives and olive paste. Both products show a remarkable loss of natural antioxidants after pasteurization and during storage as the thermal treatment mostly impacts on TOs secoiridoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lanza
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing (CREA-IT), Via Nazionale 38, I-65012 Cepagatti (PE), Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy;
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Ninfali P, Gennari L, Biagiotti E, Cangi F, Mattoli L, Maidecchi A. Improvement in Botanical Standardization of Commercial Freeze-Dried Herbal Extracts by Using the Combination of Antioxidant Capacity and Constituent Marker Concentrations. J AOAC Int 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jaoac/92.3.797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Botanical extracts are standardized to 1 marker compounds (MCs). This standardization provides a certain level of quality control, but not complete quality assurance. Thus, industries are looking for other satisfactory systems to improve standardization. This study focuses on the standardization of herbal medicines by combining 2 parameters: the concentration of the MC and antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant capacity was determined with the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method and the concentrations of the MCs, by high-performance liquid chromatography. Total phenols were also determined by the Folin-Ciocolteau method. The ORAC values, expressed as mol Trolox equivalents/100 g (ORAC ), of 12 commercial herbal extracts were related to the ORAC values of the respective pure MCs at the concentrations at which the MCs occur in products (ORAC-MC ). The ORAC values of 11 extracts were higher than those of the respective MCs and the ratios ORAC-MC /ORAC ranged from 0.007 to 0.7, whereas in the case of Olea europaea leaves, the same ratio was 1.36. The ORAC parameters and their ratios, as well as the linear relationship between ORAC-MC and ORAC , are described and discussed as tools for improving the standardization of herbal products and detecting modifications due to herb processing and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Universit di Urbino, Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, Via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Lorenzo Gennari
- Universit di Urbino, Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, Via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Enrica Biagiotti
- Universit di Urbino, Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, Via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | | | - Luisa Mattoli
- Aboca Spa, Loc. Aboca 20, 52037, Sansepolcro (AR), Italy
| | - Anna Maidecchi
- Aboca Spa, Loc. Aboca 20, 52037, Sansepolcro (AR), Italy
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Ninfali P, Mari M, Meli MA, Roselli C, Antonini E. In vitro
bioaccessibility of avenanthramides in cookies made with malted oat flours. Int J Food Sci Technol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.14020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences University of Urbino Carlo Bo via Saffi, 2 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
| | - Michele Mari
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences University of Urbino Carlo Bo via Saffi, 2 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
| | - Maria A. Meli
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences University of Urbino Carlo Bo via Saffi, 2 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
| | - Carla Roselli
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences University of Urbino Carlo Bo via Saffi, 2 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
| | - Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences University of Urbino Carlo Bo via Saffi, 2 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
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Antonini E, Iori R, Ninfali P, Scarpa ES. A Combination of Moringin and Avenanthramide 2f Inhibits the Proliferation of Hep3B Liver Cancer Cells Inducing Intrinsic and Extrinsic Apoptosis. Nutr Cancer 2018; 70:1159-1165. [PMID: 30204484 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2018.1497672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Moringin (MOR), a glycosyl-isothiocyanate obtained by myrosinase-catalyzed hydrolysis of the precursor 4-(α-l-rhamnosyloxy)-benzyl glucosinolate (glucomoringin), found predominantly in the seeds of Moringa oleifera, shows anticancer effects against several cancer cell lines. Avenanthramide (AVN) 2f is a phytochemical purified from oats with antioxidant and anticancer properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of MOR and AVN 2f used alone and in combination on Hep3B cancer cells, which are highly resistant to conventional anticancer drugs. We found that a cocktail of MOR and AVN 2f significantly inhibited the Hep3B proliferation rate by markedly increasing the activity of caspases 2, 8, 9, and 3. Extrinsic apoptosis was induced by the AVN 2f-mediated activation of caspase 8, while the intrinsic apoptotic pathway was triggered by MOR-induced increase in the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species, MOR-mediated activation of caspases 2 and 9 and the MOR-mediated downregulation of the prosurvival gene BIRC5. Our results suggest that the combination MOR + AVN 2f could be an effective chemopreventive cocktail against the development of hepatocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Antonini
- a Department of Biomolecular Sciences , University of Urbino "Carlo Bo," Urbino (PU) , Italy
| | - Renato Iori
- b Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria, Centro di ricerca Agricoltura e Ambiente (CREA-AA) , Bologna , Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- a Department of Biomolecular Sciences , University of Urbino "Carlo Bo," Urbino (PU) , Italy
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8
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Antonini E, Zara C, Valentini L, Gobbi P, Ninfali P, Menotta M. Novel insights into pericarp, protein body globoids of aleurone layer, starchy granules of three cereals gained using atomic force microscopy and environmental scanning electronic microscopy. Eur J Histochem 2018; 62:2869. [PMID: 29569870 PMCID: PMC5820524 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2018.2869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we applied Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (ESEM-EDS) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis to three different cereal caryopses: barley, oat and einkorn wheat. The morphological structures, chemical elemental composition and surface characteristics of the three cereals were described. Regarding the morphology, barley showed the thickest pericarp, providing a strong barrier digestion and absorption of nutrients. The aleurone layer of each cereal type contained protein body globoids within its cells. Large type-A and small type-B starchy granules were revealed in the endosperm of barley and einkorn wheat, whereas irregular starchy granules were found in oats. The starchy granule elemental composition, detected by ESEM-EDS, was rather homogenous in the three cereals, whereas the pericarp and protein body globoids showed heterogeneity. In the protein body globoids, oats showed higher P and K concentrations than barley and einkorn wheat. Regarding the topographic profiles, detected by AFM, einkorn wheat starchy granules showed a surface profile that differed significantly from that of oats and barley, which were quite similar to one another. The present work provides insights into the morphological and chemical makeup of the three grains shedding light on the higher bio-accessibility of einkorn wheat nutrients compared to barley and oats, providing important suggestions for human nutrition and technological standpoints.
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Scarpa ES, Emanuelli M, Frati A, Pozzi V, Antonini E, Diamantini G, Di Ruscio G, Sartini D, Armeni T, Palma F, Ninfali P. Betacyanins enhance vitexin-2-O-xyloside mediated inhibition of proliferation of T24 bladder cancer cells. Food Funct 2018; 7:4772-4780. [PMID: 27812566 DOI: 10.1039/c6fo01130f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Betacyanins (BC) were purified from beetroot (Beta vulgaris var. rubra L.) and tested, alone or in combination with vitexin-2-O-xyloside (XVX) from Beta vulgaris var. cicla L., for their ability to reduce the proliferation rate in T24 bladder cancer cells. Combination of BC and XVX exhibited a synergistic effect concerning the inhibition of proliferation in T24 cancer cells at 24 and 48 h but not after 72 h of incubation. The induction of apoptosis was evidenced by means of fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis, as well as through the increase in caspase 3 and 8 activities. Using RTqPCR experiments, it was shown that the combination of XVX + BC was able to enhance the expression levels of pro-apoptotic BAX and downregulate anti-apoptotic BIRC5 (survivin), as well as pro-survival CTNNB1 (β-catenin). The most evident effect of BC was the increase of the activity of caspase 8, leading to induction of extrinsic apoptosis. Moreover, XVX, BC and their combination showed no cytotoxic effect on normal human skin NCTC 2544 keratinocytes. These results demonstrated the efficacy and the mechanisms of the action of BC and XVX, extracted from edible plants, and suggested that a diet or a nutrition supplement, enriched with these bioactive molecules, could be used in the prevention of human bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Scarpa
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
| | - M Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy and New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Frati
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
| | - V Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy and New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - E Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
| | - G Diamantini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
| | - G Di Ruscio
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - D Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - T Armeni
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - F Palma
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
| | - P Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy.
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Scarpa ES, Mari M, Antonini E, Palma F, Ninfali P. Natural and synthetic avenanthramides activate caspases 2, 8, 3 and downregulate hTERT, MDR1 and COX-2 genes in CaCo-2 and Hep3B cancer cells. Food Funct 2018; 9:2913-2921. [DOI: 10.1039/c7fo01804e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
Avenanthramides inhibit proliferation of CaCo-2 and Hep3B cancer cells through induction of apoptosis and downregulation of pro-survival mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. S. Scarpa
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences
- University of Urbino Carlo Bo
- 61029 Urbino
- Italy
| | - M. Mari
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences
- University of Urbino Carlo Bo
- 61029 Urbino
- Italy
| | - E. Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences
- University of Urbino Carlo Bo
- 61029 Urbino
- Italy
| | - F. Palma
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences
- University of Urbino Carlo Bo
- 61029 Urbino
- Italy
| | - P. Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences
- University of Urbino Carlo Bo
- 61029 Urbino
- Italy
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Torri L, Frati A, Ninfali P, Mantegna S, Cravotto G, Morini G. Comparison of reduced sugar high quality chocolates sweetened with stevioside and crude stevia 'green' extract. J Sci Food Agric 2017; 97:2346-2352. [PMID: 27649486 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.8045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for zero and reduced-sugar food products containing cocoa is expanding continuously. The present study was designed to evaluate the feasibility of producing high-quality chocolate sweetened with a crude extract of Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) prepared by a green microwave-assisted water-steam extraction procedure. Seven approximately isosweet chocolate formulations were developed, mixing cocoa paste, sucrose, commercial stevioside, crude green extract and maltitol in different proportions. All samples were analyzed for the determination of polyphenol and flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptability. RESULTS The use of a crude stevia extract allowed low-sugar, high-quality chocolates to be obtained that were also acceptable by consumers and had a significant increased antioxidant activity. Moreover, consumers' segmentation revealed a cluster of consumers showing the same overall liking for the sample with 50% sucrose replaced by the stevia crude extract as that obtained with the commercial stevioside and the control sample (without sucrose replacement). CONCLUSION The results provide information that can contribute to promoting the development of sweet food products, with advantages in terms of an improved nutritional value (reduced sugar content and increased antioxidant activity) and a reduced impact of the production process on the environment. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Torri
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 9, 12060, Pollenzo-Bra, (CN), Italy
| | - Alessandra Frati
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Via A. Saffi 2, 61029, Urbino, (PU), Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Via A. Saffi 2, 61029, Urbino, (PU), Italy
| | - Stefano Mantegna
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Cravotto
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Gabriella Morini
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 9, 12060, Pollenzo-Bra, (CN), Italy
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Antonini E, Diamantini G, Ninfali P. The effect of mechanical processing on avenanthramide and phenol levels in two organically grown Italian oat cultivars. J Food Sci Technol 2017; 54:2279-2287. [PMID: 28740284 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-017-2665-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Avenanthramides (AVNs), free and bound phenols and their antioxidant capacities (ORAC) were evaluated in two Avena sativa L. cultivars, Donata and Flavia. The cultivars (cvs.) were grown in loamy and medium texture soils and assessed after industrial dehulling and milling. Total dietary fiber, β-glucan, starch and proteins were also evaluated. Cv. Donata showed 2.8 fold higher AVN storage as compared to cv. Flavia, which was linked with genotype. The accumulation of AVN content was also influenced by the texture of the soil. Dehulling resulted in a 75 and 37% AVN decrease in cv. Donata and Flavia, respectively. The dehulled grains of cv. Donata showed 40% reduction in free phenolic content, whereas the dehulled grains of both cvs. showed 67% reduction in bound phenols. Milling affected the bound phenolics and their antioxidant capacity. Cv. Flavia showed 1.3 fold higher β-glucan than that of cv. Donata. Total dietary fiber was reduced by 50 and 12% after dehulling and milling, respectively, while marginal changes in proteins were observed after milling. The results suggest that the choice of genotype and the kind of dehulling processes that are employed are essential considerations in the production of oat-based products with high AVN content and extra health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", via A. Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino, PU Italy
| | - Giuseppe Diamantini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", via A. Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino, PU Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", via A. Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino, PU Italy
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Ninfali P, Antonini E, Frati A, Scarpa ES. C-Glycosyl Flavonoids from Beta vulgaris Cicla and Betalains from Beta vulgaris rubra: Antioxidant, Anticancer and Antiinflammatory Activities-A Review. Phytother Res 2017; 31:871-884. [PMID: 28464411 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [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: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The green beet (Beta vulgaris var. cicla L.) and red beetroot (B. vulgaris var. rubra L.) contain phytochemicals that have beneficial effects on human health. Specifically, the green beet contains apigenin, vitexin, vitexin-2-O-xyloside and vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside, while the red beetroot is a source of betaxanthins and betacyanins. These phytochemicals show considerable antioxidant activity, as well as antiinflammatory and antiproliferative activities. Vitexin-2-O-xyloside, in combination with betaxanthins and betacyanins, exerts antiproliferative activity in breast, liver, colon and bladder cancer cell lines, through the induction of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. A significant body of evidence also points to the role of these phytochemicals in the downregulation of the pro-survival genes, baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat-containing 5 and catenin beta-1, as well as the genes controlling angiogenesis, hypoxia inducible factor 1A and vascular endothelial growth factor A. The multi-target action of these phytochemicals enhances their anticancer activity. Vitexin-2-O-xyloside, betaxanthins and betacyanins can be used in combination with conventional anticancer drugs to reduce their toxicity and overcome the multidrug resistance of cancer cells. In this review, we describe the molecular mechanisms that enable these dietary phytochemicals to block the proliferation of tumor cells and inhibit their pro-survival pathways. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', via Saffi, 2, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', via Saffi, 2, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Alessandra Frati
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', via Saffi, 2, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
| | - Emanuele-Salvatore Scarpa
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', via Saffi, 2, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
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Panato A, Antonini E, Bortolotti F, Ninfali P. The histology of grain caryopses for nutrient location: a comparative study of six cereals. Int J Food Sci Technol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Panato
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health; University of Verona; Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10 37134 Verona VR Italy
| | - Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino; via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Federica Bortolotti
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health; University of Verona; Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10 37134 Verona VR Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino; via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
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Farabegoli F, Scarpa E, Frati A, Serafini G, Papi A, Spisni E, Antonini E, Benedetti S, Ninfali P. Betalains increase vitexin-2-O-xyloside cytotoxicity in CaCo-2 cancer cells. Food Chem 2017; 218:356-364. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.09.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Antonini E, Lombardi F, Alfieri M, Diamantini G, Redaelli R, Ninfali P. Nutritional characterization of naked and dehulled oat cultivar samples at harvest and after storage. J Cereal Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcs.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Ferri P, Angelino D, Gennari L, Benedetti S, Ambrogini P, Del Grande P, Ninfali P. Enhancement of flavonoid ability to cross the blood-brain barrier of rats by co-administration with α-tocopherol. Food Funct 2016; 6:394-400. [PMID: 25474041 DOI: 10.1039/c4fo00817k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin E and polyphenols could exhibit a therapeutic role in the treatment of oxidative stress-induced neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) represents an important issue to be explored by different diet combinations. In this study, we have evaluated the ability of α-tocopherol to support epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), quercetin and rutin to cross the BBB, following oral administration. Eighteen rats were fed a standard diet (C), a diet supplemented with α-tocopherol (A), with a mixture of EGCG, quercetin and rutin (P); or with a mixture of α-tocopherol and the three flavonoids (AP). Flavonoids and their conjugated derivatives were assayed in brain and plasma by HPLC-MS, whereas α-tocopherol was detected by RP-HPLC. The oxidative damage, due to the potential pro-oxidant activity of flavonoids, was evaluated by the presence of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in hippocampal Cornus Ammonis, one of the most vulnerable sites in the brain. Our results indicate that α-tocopherol is able to promote quercetin transport across the BBB. The mixture of rutin and quercetin seems to favour the accumulation of quercetin and/or its conjugated derivatives in the brain. In contrast, α-tocopherol does not affect EGCG transport across the BBB. The densitometric analysis of 8-OHdG immunoreactivity does not reveal any difference of oxidative damage among the experimental groups. Our results suggest that α-tocopherol may promote quercetin transport across the BBB, leading to a significant increase of α-tocopherol and quercetin concentration in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Ferri
- Department of Earth, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Via Ca' Le Suore 2/4, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy
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Antonini E, Farina A, Scarpa ES, Frati A, Ninfali P. Quantity and quality of secoiridoids and lignans in extra virgin olive oils: the effect of two- and three-way decanters on Leccino and Raggiola olive cultivars. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2015; 67:9-15. [DOI: 10.3109/09637486.2015.1121473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Antonini E, Farina A, Leone A, Mazzara E, Urbani S, Selvaggini R, Servili M, Ninfali P. Phenolic compounds and quality parameters of family farming versus protected designation of origin (PDO) extra-virgin olive oils. J Food Compost Anal 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2015.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Scarpa ES, Ninfali P. Phytochemicals as Innovative Therapeutic Tools against Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:15727-42. [PMID: 26184171 PMCID: PMC4519921 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160715727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [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: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The theory that several carcinogenetic processes are initiated and sustained by cancer stem cells (CSCs) has been validated, and specific methods to identify the CSCs in the entire population of cancer cells have also proven to be effective. This review aims to provide an overview of recently acquired scientific knowledge regarding phytochemicals and herbal extracts, which have been shown to be able to target and kill CSCs. Many genes and proteins that sustain the CSCs’ self-renewal capacity and drug resistance have been described and applications of phytochemicals able to interfere with these signaling systems have been shown to be operatively efficient both in vitro and in vivo. Identification of specific surface antigens, mammosphere formation assays, serial colony-forming unit assays, xenograft transplantation and label-retention assays coupled with Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) activity evaluation are the most frequently used techniques for measuring phytochemical efficiency in killing CSCs. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that EGCG, curcumin, piperine, sulforaphane, β-carotene, genistein and the whole extract of some plants are able to kill CSCs. Most of these phytochemicals act by interfering with the canonical Wnt (β-catenin/T cell factor-lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF-LEF)) pathway implicated in the pathogenesis of several cancers. Therefore, the use of phytochemicals may be a true therapeutic strategy for eradicating cancer through the elimination of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino (PU) 61029, Italy.
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Galletti S, Bagatta M, Branca F, Argento S, De Nicola GR, Cianchetta S, Iori R, Ninfali P. Isatis canescens is a rich source of glucobrassicin and other health-promoting compounds. J Sci Food Agric 2015; 95:158-164. [PMID: 24752914 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.6697] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucobrassicin (GBS), a glucosinolate contained in many brassica vegetables, is the precursor of chemopreventive compounds such as indole-3-carbinol. Large amounts of GBS would be needed to perform studies aimed at elucidating its role in the diet. This study was mainly undertaken to evaluate the flower buds of Isatis canescens as a source for GBS purification. In order to investigate the health-promoting potential of this species, glucosinolate, phenol and flavonoid content as well as the whole antioxidant capacity were also determined. Flower bud samples were collected in four localities around Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, where I. canescens is widespread, as they are locally traditionally eaten. RESULTS I. canescens flower buds displayed high GBS concentrations, up to 60 µmol g(-1) dry weight. The purification method consisted of two chromatographic steps, which made it possible to obtain GBS with a purity of 92-95%, with a yield of 21 g kg(-1) . The total glucosinolates, phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity were considerable, with the southern locality showing the highest concentrations for all the phytochemicals. CONCLUSION I. canescens flower buds represent a naturally rich source of GBS, at a level suitable for its purification. Furthermore, flower bud consumption could provide an intake of health-promoting compounds, with possible antioxidant and chemopreventive properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Galletti
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Colture Industriali, Via di Corticella, 133, Bologna, Italy
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Diamantini G, Pignotti S, Antonini E, Chiarabini A, Angelino D, Ninfali P. Assessment of antioxidant capacity of energy drinks, energy gels and sport drinks in comparison with coffee and tea. Int J Food Sci Technol 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.12615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Diamantini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Silvio Pignotti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Andrea Chiarabini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Donato Angelino
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”; Via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
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Ninfali P, Chiarabini A, Angelino D. The ORAC/kcal ratio qualifies nutritional and functional properties of fruit juices, nectars, and fruit drinks. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2014; 65:708-12. [PMID: 24840207 DOI: 10.3109/09637486.2014.918591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Fruit beverages are source of antioxidants, but their sugar content plays an important role in the epidemic of obesity. In this study, we considered 32 fruit beverages consumed in Italy (13 fruit juices, 11 nectars, and 8 fruit drinks), which were analyzed for caloric intake, total phenols (TP), ascorbic acid, and antioxidant capacity (oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method). Results showed that the caloric intake was almost completely provided by the sugar content, ranging from 5.5 to 19%. The ORAC/kcal ratio was taken as an indicator of the antioxidant performance of fruit beverages. Fruit juices containing berries, red orange, and goji showed the best performances, together with berries or pears nectars and fruit drinks made with rose hips or tea extracts. The 95% of antioxidant capacity was provided by TP, which showed a significant linear correlation with the net ORAC values. Overall, the results indicate that the ORAC/kcal ratio is a suitable parameter to rank the quality of fruit beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo" , Urbino , Italy
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Bertuccioli A, Ninfali P. The Mediterranean Diet in the era of globalization: The need to support knowledge of healthy dietary factors in the new socio-economical framework. Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism 2014. [DOI: 10.3233/mnm-140008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Urbino, Italy
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De Nicola GR, Bagatta M, Pagnotta E, Angelino D, Gennari L, Ninfali P, Rollin P, Iori R. Comparison of bioactive phytochemical content and release of isothiocyanates in selected brassica sprouts. Food Chem 2013; 141:297-303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2013.02.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Ninfali P, Dominici S, Angelino D, Gennari L, Buondelmonte C, Giorgi L. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the measurement of plasma flavonoids in mice fed apigenin-C-glycoside. J Sci Food Agric 2013; 93:3087-3093. [PMID: 23526334 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.6143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 12/06/2012] [Revised: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Chenopodiaceae family, the apigenin flavonoids vitexin-2-O-xyloside (VOX) and vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside (VOR) are important chemopreventive components. To investigate their bioavailability in in vivo animal studies an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method has been developed. RESULTS The ELISA was based on polyclonal antibodies elicited in mice by injecting, as an immunogen, 4',6″-O-biapigenin (hinokiflavone, HF) conjugated to bovine serum albumin (BSA-HF). A second immunogen was synthesised by coupling an equimolar mixture of VOX and VOR to BSA (BSA-F1). The BSA-HF elicited a significant antibody response, due to 17 HF hapten groups, coupled to each BSA molecule, whereas BSA-F1 provided a very low antigenicity in respect to control animals. Antiserum raised against BSA-HF showed an antibody titre of 1:1600. Antibodies were found to be specific for the flavonols. Our results show that VOX and its metabolic products reached the concentration of 3.42 ± 0.72 µg mL⁻¹ in plasma of VOX fed animals, at the net of the control value. CONCLUSIONS By using the ELISA, the concentration of apigenin flavonoids and their metabolites can be detected in VOX- or VOR-supplemented animals. The assay represents a useful tool for rapid screening to compare bioavailability of apigenin flavonoids in respect to control animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino 61029 (PU), Italy.
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Angelino D, Berhow M, Ninfali P, Jeffery EH. Caecal absorption of vitexin-2-O-xyloside and its aglycone apigenin, in the rat. Food Funct 2013; 4:1339-45. [DOI: 10.1039/c3fo60047e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Papi A, Farabegoli F, Iori R, Orlandi M, De Nicola GR, Bagatta M, Angelino D, Gennari L, Ninfali P. Vitexin-2-O-xyloside, raphasatin and (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate synergistically affect cell growth and apoptosis of colon cancer cells. Food Chem 2012; 138:1521-30. [PMID: 23411276 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2012.11.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cytotoxic effects of the combination of the food components vitexin-2-O-xyloside (X), raphasatin (4-methylsulphanyl-3-butenyl isothiocyanates; G) and (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (E) were investigated in colon (LoVo and CaCo-2) and breast (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) cancer cells. Breast cancer cells were more resistant than colon cells to X, G and E inhibition. On the contrary, marked synergistic effects among X, G and E on cell growth were found in both colon cancer cells. Further analysis revealed a G0/G1 arrest of the phase cell progression and apoptosis, linked to modulation of Bax, Bcl2, caspase-9 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase as well as Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation in both colon cancer cells, whereas apoptosis and ROS were not significantly detected in normal human lymphocytes. We conclude that the X, G and E mixture might act by mitochondrial pathway activation of apoptosis, possibly elicited by ROS and the mixture may be effective in the chemoprevention of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Papi
- Department of Experimental Evolutive Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Gennari L, Felletti M, Blasa M, Angelino D, Celeghini C, Corallini A, Ninfali P. Total extract of Beta vulgaris var. cicla seeds versus its purified phenolic components: antioxidant activities and antiproliferative effects against colon cancer cells. Phytochem Anal 2011; 22:272-279. [PMID: 21337646 DOI: 10.1002/pca.1276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2010] [Revised: 09/08/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Beta vulgaris var. cicla (BV) leaves contain chemopreventive compounds that have been investigated for new drug discovery. These compounds belong to the family of the apigenin-glycosides. Since the leaves are seasonal products containing high percentages of water, they are easily degradable during storage in fresh conditions. To be stored they require a drying process, consuming time and a large amount of energy. The extraction of apigenin-glycosides may also be conveniently performed from BV seeds, which represent a stable and year-long available biomass. OBJECTIVES The present report was undertaken to find a strategy of purification of bioactive flavonoids from BV seeds and test their ability to inhibit proliferation both on human colon cancer (RKO) cells and normal human fibroblasts (HF). MATERIALS AND METHODS The ethyl-acetate extract of BV seeds was fractionated on a Sephadex LH 20 column. A fraction of this extract, labeled as P4, exploited a marked antiproliferative activity on RKO cells. The components of P4 were purified on an RP₁₈ column chromatography and identified by HPLC-ESI-MS as 2,4,5-trihydroxybenzaldehyde, 2,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, vanillic acid, xylosylvitexin, glucopyranosyl-glucopyrasyl-rhamnetin and glucopyranosyl-xylosyl-rhamnetin. All of them were tested for cytostatic and cytotoxic activity on RKO and HF cells. RESULTS Xylosylvitexin exhibited the strongest antiproliferative activity on RKO cells, together with an enhancement of the apoptosis, an increase of cells in the G₁ phase and a reduction of cells in the S phase; on the contrary, the proliferation of HF was significantly stimulated. CONCLUSION Xylosylvitexin is the main and more efficient chemopreventive compound in BV seeds, but the natural cocktail of molecules, represented by P4 fraction, showed a better compromise between the antiproliferative activity on RKO cells and the enhancement of HF proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Gennari
- Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', Urbino, Italy
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Angelino D, Gennari L, Blasa M, Selvaggini R, Urbani S, Esposto S, Servili M, Ninfali P. Chemical and cellular antioxidant activity of phytochemicals purified from olive mill waste waters. J Agric Food Chem 2011; 59:2011-2018. [PMID: 21314125 DOI: 10.1021/jf103881b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The isolation and identification of a phytocomplex from olive mill waste waters (OMWW) was achieved. The isolated phytocomplex is made up of the following three phenolic compounds: hydroxytyrosol (3,4-DHPEA), tyrosol (p-HPEA) and the dialdehydic form of decarboxymethyl elenolic acid, linked with (3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethanol (3,4-DHPEA-EDA). The purification of this phytocomplex was reached by partial dehydration of the OMWW, followed by liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate and middle pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC) on a Sephadex LH-20 column. The phytocomplex accounted for 6% of the total phenolic content of the OMWW. The phytocomplex and individual compounds were tested for antioxidant capacity by the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method. The ORAC phytocomplex produced 10,000 ORAC units/g dry weight, whereas the cellular antioxidant activity, measured by the cellular antioxidant activity in red blood cell (CAA-RBC) method, demonstrated that the phytocomplex and all of the components are able to permeate the cell membrane thus exhibiting antioxidant activity inside the red blood cells. Our phytocomplex could be employed in the formulation of fortified foods and nutraceuticals, with the goal to obtain substantial health protective effects due to the suitable combination of the component molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Angelino
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via A. Saffi, 2, Urbino 61029 (PU), Italy
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Blasa M, Angelino D, Gennari L, Ninfali P. The cellular antioxidant activity in red blood cells (CAA-RBC): A new approach to bioavailability and synergy of phytochemicals and botanical extracts. Food Chem 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2010.09.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Ninfali P, Gennari L, Biagiotti E, Cangi F, Mattoli L, Maidecchi A. Improvement in botanical standardization of commercial freeze-dried herbal extracts by using the combination of antioxidant capacity and constituent marker concentrations. J AOAC Int 2009; 92:797-805. [PMID: 19610370] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Botanical extracts are standardized to > or = 1 marker compounds (MCs). This standardization provides a certain level of quality control, but not complete quality assurance. Thus, industries are looking for other satisfactory systems to improve standardization. This study focuses on the standardization of herbal medicines by combining 2 parameters: the concentration of the MC and antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant capacity was determined with the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method and the concentrations of the MCs, by high-performance liquid chromatography. Total phenols were also determined by the Folin-Ciocolteau method. The ORAC values, expressed as micromol Trolox equivalents/100 g (ORAC %), of 12 commercial herbal extracts were related to the ORAC values of the respective pure MCs at the concentrations at which the MCs occur in products (ORAC-MC %). The ORAC % values of 11 extracts were higher than those of the respective MCs and the ratios ORAC-MC %/ORAC % ranged from 0.007 to 0.7, whereas in the case of Olea europaea leaves, the same ratio was 1.36. The ORAC parameters and their ratios, as well as the linear relationship between ORAC-MC % and ORAC %, are described and discussed as tools for improving the standardization of herbal products and detecting modifications due to herb processing and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Università di Urbino, Istituto di Chimica Biologica "G. Fornaini," Via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy.
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Ninfali P, Bacchiocca M, Antonelli A, Biagiotti E, Di Gioacchino AM, Piccoli G, Stocchi V, Brandi G. Characterization and biological activity of the main flavonoids from Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subspecies cycla). Phytomedicine 2007; 14:216-21. [PMID: 16698256 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2006.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The molecular components of a phenolic fraction (P2), obtained from liquid chromatography of a Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cycla) extract, were identified using HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The primary P2 components were: vitexin-2''O-rhamnoside, its demethylated form 2''-xylosylvitexin, isorhamnetin 3-gentiobioside, and rutin. P2 "in toto" and the single components were characterized for antioxidant capacity, antimitotic activity on MCF-7 human breast cancer cells and for toxicity to human lymphocytes and macrophages. P2 inhibited MCF-7 cell proliferation (IC(50) value = 9 microg/ml) without inducing apoptosis, showed no toxicity to human lymphocytes and slight toxicity to macrophages. Vitexin-2''O-rhamnoside strongly inhibited DNA synthesis in MCF-7 cells, whereas 2''-xylosylvitexin and isorhamnetin 3-gentiobioside were activators; combinations of activators and inhibitors maintained the over-all inhibitory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, Università degli Studi Carlo Bo, Urbino (PU), Italy.
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Biagiotti E, Ferri P, Dringen R, Del Grande P, Ninfali P. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and NADPH-consuming enzymes in the rat olfactory bulb. J Neurosci Res 2005; 80:434-41. [PMID: 15795931 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The resistance to oxidative stress is a multifactorial reaction involving the clustering of transcriptionally regulated genes. Because glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), the principal enzyme responsible for reducing power, is highly expressed in the olfactory bulb (OB), it is of interest to verify whether other enzymes utilizing NADPH are also highly expressed. The level and localization of G6PD- and NADPH-consuming enzymes, such as NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (P450R), glutathione reductase (GR), and NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d), were analyzed in the rat olfactory bulb (OB) by quantitative histochemistry and immunohistochemistry. The highest concentration of G6PD, P450R, and GR was observed in the olfactory nerve layer (ONL), suggesting a correlation in the expression of these enzymes at the gene level. Correlation in staining intensity between G6PD and NADPH-d activities occurred only in part of the ONL, some glomeruli, and scattered periglomerular cells. This peculiar distribution of NADPH-d could reflect a spatial patterning of the nose to bulb projections. Taken together, these results indicate that G6PD expression in the ONL could be related to the importance of generating a substantial supply of NADPH to sustain the detoxifying systems represented by GR and P450R reactions and, only in discrete zones, by NADPH-d activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Biagiotti
- Institute of Biological Chemistry G. Fornaini, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo," Urbino, Italy
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36
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Ferri P, Biagiotti E, Ambrogini P, Santi S, Del Grande P, Ninfali P. NADPH-consuming enzymes correlate with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in Purkinje cells: an immunohistochemical and enzyme histochemical study of the rat cerebellar cortex. Neurosci Res 2005; 51:185-97. [PMID: 15681036 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2004.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2004] [Accepted: 11/02/2004] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In cerebellum of the adult rat, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity is particularly localized in Purkinje cells, showing lower activity in the molecular and granule cell layers. G6PD is the first and rate-limiting step of the hexose monophosphate shunt (HMS), which has the physiological role of providing NADPH for reductive biosynthesis and detoxifying reactions. In this study, we searched for a possible correlation between G6PD and other NADPH-consuming enzymes, such as NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (P450R), glutathione reductase (GR) and NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d). This study was performed by means of immunohistochemistry and enzyme histochemistry followed by quantitative densitometric and confocal laser scanning microscopic analyses. Our results demonstrated that G6PD, P450R and GR have a similar distribution pattern characterized by the highest concentration of these enzymes in the somata of Purkinje cells, and by lower concentrations in the molecular and the granule cell layers. Moreover, in Purkinje cells, G6PD colocalized with both P450R and GR. NADPH-d activity showed a different distribution pattern when compared to the other enzymes, revealing the highest activity in the molecular layer and the lowest in Purkinje cells. Our results suggest a coordinated regulative mechanism of G6PD, P450R and GR based on the request of NADPH or on specific transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Ferri
- Institute of Morphological Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
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Abstract
Vegetables are the most important sources of phenolics in the Mediterranean diet. Phenolics, especially flavonoids, are suggested as being essential bioactive compounds providing health benefits. In this study, twenty-seven vegetables, fifteen aromatic herbs and some spices consumed in Central Italy (the Marches region) were studied to reveal total phenolic, flavonoid and flavanol content as well as their antioxidant capacity measured by the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method. A comparison in terms of antioxidant capacity was made between different salads, as well as between salads to which aromatic herbs had been added. Lemon balm and marjoram at a concentration of 1.5 % w/w increased by 150 % and 200 % respectively the antioxidant capacity of a salad portion. A 200 g portion of a salad enriched with marjoram corresponded to an intake of 200 (SD 10) mg phenolics and 4000 (SD 300) ORAC units (micromol Trolox equivalents). Olive oils and wine or apple vinegars were the salad dressings that provided the highest increase in antioxidant capacity. Among the spices tested, cumin and fresh ginger made the most significant contribution to the antioxidant capacity. The results are useful in surveying the antioxidant parameters of vegetables, herbs and spices produced and consumed in our geographical area as well as in quantifying the daily intake of phenolics and ORAC units. The results can be used in public health campaigns to stimulate the consumption of vegetables able to provide significant health protection in order to prevent chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica, G. Fornaini Universitá di Urbino, Italy.
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Pessina F, Marazova K, Ninfali P, Avanzi L, Manfredini S, Sgaragli G. In vitro neuroprotection by novel antioxidants in guinea-pig urinary bladder subjected to anoxia-glucopenia/reperfusion damage. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2004; 370:521-8. [PMID: 15599711 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-004-0998-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2004] [Accepted: 10/18/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In a previous study, the neuroprotection provided by some hindered phenols of synthetic nature and alpha-tocopherol in guinea-pig detrusor strips subjected to ischaemia/reperfusion-like conditions was shown to be related directly to the antioxidant activity. The aim of the present study was to estimate the capability of three novel chimeric molecules derived by assembling known antioxidant moieties, namely FeAOX-6, comprising a chromanyl head and the polyisoprenyl sequence characteristic for lycopene, FeCD-52, derived from the conjugation of ascorbic acid and a polyphenol moiety (FeRS-4) and FeDG-17, derived from the combination of ascorbic acid and a chromanyl head, to confer neuroprotection in an in vitro model of guinea-pig whole urinary bladder subjected to anoxia-glucopenia/reperfusion injury. The antioxidant potential of these compounds was determined by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and phochemiluminescence (PCL) assays to test their peroxyl and anion superoxide (O2(*-)) radical trapping activity, respectively. FeAOX-6, FeCD-52 and FeDG-17 exerted both strong neuroprotective and antioxidant activity, significantly higher than those exerted by the individual component moieties. The antioxidant activity of FeCD-52 was 37-fold higher than that of the reference compound trolox. FeAOX-6 exerted remarkable neuroprotective activity, superior to that of FeCD-52 or FeDG-17, in spite of its lower antioxidant activity. These findings indicate that assembling antioxidant moieties yields neuroprotective agents, the effectiveness of which, however, is not related to the antioxidant activity. It is possible that a different partitioning in cell compartments critically involved in the oxidative damage pathway plays a role in neuroprotection exerted by these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Pessina
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università di Siena, Via A. Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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Biagiotti E, Malatesta M, Capellacci S, Fattoretti P, Gazzanelli G, Ninfali P. Quantification of G6PD in small and large intestine of rat during aging. Acta Histochem 2003; 104:225-34. [PMID: 12389736 DOI: 10.1078/0065-1281-00667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated a decrease in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity during aging in many cell types, including red blood cells, fibroblasts and lens cells. Moreover, the intracellular activity of G6PD has been shown to be regulated by binding to cell organelles. To investigate whether binding of G6PD to cell organelles is related with the decrease in its activity during aging, distribution patterns of G6PD activity and protein were assessed in small (SI) and large (LI) intestine of 3-month-old and 28-month-old rats. Enzyme activity, as measured spectrophotometrically, did not show any significant change with aging in SI or LI. Enzyme histochemistry, performed by subtracting activity staining of 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) from that of G6PD, showed a lower net G6PD activity in SI and LI epithelium of old rats in comparison with young rats. G6PD activity did not change significantly with aging in the muscularis externa of SI and LI. Immunoelectron microscopic analysis of G6PD protein allowed us to measure the density of G6PD molecules in cellular compartments, and the fraction of enzyme bound to cell organelles. In SI and LI epithelia, density of G6PD molecules was higher in old rats than in young rats; however, the fraction of enzyme bound to cell organelles also increased with aging. These data suggest that G6PD activity in epithelium of SI and LI decreases with aging due to the accumulation of significant amounts of enzyme bound to cell organelles, a condition which makes it less active than the soluble enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Biagiotti
- Institute of Biochemistry G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, Italy
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40
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Abstract
The phenolic and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values have been measured in six fresh and frozen vegetables (beet green, spinach, broccoli, carrot, onion, and celery) from the same cultivar by analyzing the whole juice (WJ) and the acetonic extract of the squeezed pulp. To exploit the effect of the acid environment on the stability and recovery of the phenolics, perchloric acid (PCA) was added directly to WJ and to the pulp before the extraction with acetone. In both fresh and frozen vegetables, PCA markedly increased the recovery of phenolics extracted from the pulp, but PCA had no effect on the WJ. Four of six frozen vegetables showed lower phenolic and ORAC values than the fresh vegetables, whereas in the other two cases, values were significantly higher compared to fresh samples. Among the fresh vegetables, beet green showed the highest ORAC and phenolic values; however, when measured in two different cultivars of beet green, the ORAC value showed as much as 4.5-fold variation, whereas total phenolics and flavonoids showed 1.2- and 3.5-fold variations, respectively. The results show that total phenolics and ORAC, compared in fresh and frozen vegetables, represent an index of the mildness of blanching in the industry of frozen vegetables and provide a measure of the gap in antioxidants in the diet of people who consume frozen instead of fresh vegetables. The plant genotype is an important source of variability in the ORAC value, which can be conveniently used to increase the intake of antioxidants from vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolino Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica, G. Fornaini Università di Urbino, via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy.
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Biagiotti E, Guidi L, Del Grande P, Ninfali P. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase expression associated with NADPH-dependent reactions in cerebellar neurons. Cerebellum 2003; 2:178-83. [PMID: 14509567 DOI: 10.1080/14734220310016123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This review describes the variation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity in the main neurons of the molecular and granular layers as well as in the deep nuclei of the cerebellum as observed so far by optical and electron microscopy studies. Light microscopy and semiquantitative microphotometry of histochemical staining showed that the highest G6PD activity was expressed by Purkinje cells and neurons of the deep cerebellar nuclei; the elements of the molecular layer showed a diffuse G6PD staining, while the granular layer displayed only scattered G6PD activity. Electron microscopy analysis showed that the basket and stellate cells, as well as the Golgi cells, have a remarkable G6PD activity, while in the granule cells the enzyme was barely detectable. The results show that cerebellar G6PD activity changes with different neuron types as a function of its role in sustaining NADPH dependent pathways in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Biagiotti
- Institute of Biochemistry "G. Fornaini", University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
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Cuppini R, Ciaroni S, Cecchini T, Ambrogini P, Ferri P, Cuppini C, Ninfali P, Del Grande P. Tocopherols enhance neurogenesis in dentate gyrus of adult rats. INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2002; 72:170-6. [PMID: 12098885 DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831.72.3.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In the dentate gyrus of the mammalian hippocampus, neurogenesis carries on throughout postnatal life. The aim of this work was to identify an exogenous control factor of adult neurogenesis. Neurogenesis in the adult dentate gyrus was previously found to be enhanced in vitamin E-deficient rats. The effects of alpha- or beta-tocopherol supplementation on neurogenesis in the adult dentate gyrus were investigated by 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling. Tocopherol was found to increase the survival of newborn cells and the total number of granule cells in the adult rat dentate gyrus. Newborn cells were phenotypically characterized by expression of the immature neuron marker TOAD-64 (turned on after division-64). Therefore tocopherol in high doses possibly increases the number of granule cells in the dentate gyrus by saving newborn cells from death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Cuppini
- Institute of Physiological Sciences, University of Urbino, Crocicchia, I-61029 Urbino, Italy.
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Ninfali P, Ditroilo M, Capellacci S, Biagiotti E. Rabbit brain glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase: biochemical properties and inactivation by free radicals and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal. Neuroreport 2001; 12:4149-53. [PMID: 11742255 DOI: 10.1097/00001756-200112210-00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) purified from rabbit brain is composed of two identical subunits of 56 kDa. The enzyme exhibits biphasic pH curve, linear Arrhenius plot and elevated susceptibility to inactivation by metal catalyzed oxidation and thiol binding reagents. 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE) is able to inactivate the enzyme after only a few minutes of incubation. Since reactive oxygen species and G6PD-HNE adducts form easily in brain under conditions of oxidative stress, these findings have important implications in the loss of active G6PD molecules in vivo, a process which lowers the antioxidant protection and may be critical for neuron survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, Via Saffi 2, 61029 Urbino (PU) Italy
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Biagiotti E, Guidi L, Capellacci S, Ambrogini P, Papa S, Del Grande P, Ninfali P. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase supports the functioning of the synapses in rat cerebellar cortex. Brain Res 2001; 911:152-7. [PMID: 11511383 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(01)02615-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates heterogeneous glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) expression in the rat cerebellar cortex. G6PD activity and its electrophoretic pattern, evaluated on the cerebellar homogenate, were found to be similar to those of other brain areas. However, histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that the highest expression of G6PD activity and protein was in Purkinje's cells, followed by the molecular and granular layers. Electron microscopy analysis showed that, in Purkinje's cells, the G6PD reaction products were concentrated in the neurites while in the basket cells in the cell body. The granules showed a weaker activity everywhere. The quantitative distribution of G6PD is discussed in the light of the neurochemical function of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Biagiotti
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, Via A. Saffi 2, I-61029 (PU) Urbino, Italy
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Ottaviani MF, Spallaci M, Cangiotti M, Bacchiocca M, Ninfali P. Electron paramagnetic resonance investigations of free radicals in extra virgin olive oils. J Agric Food Chem 2001; 49:3691-3696. [PMID: 11513649 DOI: 10.1021/jf001203+] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Free radicals in olive oils were identified and quantified by EPR, by means of the spin-trapping technique making use of alpha-phenylbutylnitrone (PBN) as spin trap. The radical species were identified as PBN-trapped hydroxyl radicals (PBN-*OH) in the water microdroplets inside the fat medium. The largest radical concentration was 12.5 microM identical with 100%. The following were the relative concentrations of the radicals under different conditions: (1) Two oils, produced by continuous centrifugation, aged for 1 year, showed a 25-30% increase in the radicals compared to nonaged oils; 1-year-old oil, produced by pressure, did not differ from the nonaged oil. (2) Radical production was markedly reduced by N(2) bubbling; it was increased by heating, whereas it showed a biphasic pattern by air bubbling over time. (3) Radical concentration as a function of the UV irradiation time increased up to a maximum, after which it decreased and finally remained constant. The phenolic and oxygen contents were related to the radical content. This study demonstrates that the EPR technique is suitably applied to the detection of free radicals in olive oil and that storage, handling, and stress conditions of the oils significantly influence the radical concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Ottaviani
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Urbino, P.zza Rinascimento 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy.
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46
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Ninfali P, Malatesta M, Biagiotti E, Aluigi G, Gazzanelli G. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in small intestine of rabbit: biochemical properties and subcellular localization. Acta Histochem 2001; 103:287-303. [PMID: 11482375 DOI: 10.1078/0065-1281-00599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Biochemical properties and cellular and subcellular distribution patterns of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) were investigated in small intestine of rabbits. The specific activity of G6PD in fresh homogenates of small intestine was 19 +/- 9 IU/g protein. This value did not change significantly after dialysis. The kinetic and electrophoretic properties of the partially purified enzyme were similar to those found in other rabbit tissues. Enzyme histochemical analysis of G6PD activity using the tetrazolium salt method showed high activity in epithelial cells of villi and crypts of Lieberkuhn. The activity in acinar cells of Brunner's glands was lower than that in epithelium, whereas cells of the muscularis externa showed a very low activity. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the amounts of G6PD protein were lower in the epithelium than in Brunner's glands and muscularis externa. The differences between distribution patterns of activity and protein of G6PD may reflect the presence of inactive enzyme molecules in Brunner's glands and muscularis externa or posttranslational activation of G6PD in epithelium. Electron microscopic immunocytochemical analysis performed with gold-labelled antibodies showed the presence of G6PD protein throughout the cytoplasm and at smooth endoplasmic reticulum in enterocytes. In Paneth cells and cells of Brunner's glands, G6PD was found in the cytoplasm, at rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex. Immunolabelling was not found in mitochondria or nuclei. Our findings show that G6PD is heterogeneously distributed in cells of the small intestine and that the enzyme is associated with rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum to support synthetic functions in these compartments by NADPH production.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, Italy.
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Ninfali P, Aluigi G, Capellacci S, Biagiotti E. Heterogeneous distribution of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in lingual epithelium. Acta Histochem 2000; 102:339-52. [PMID: 10990070 DOI: 10.1078/s0065-1281(04)70040-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Lingual epithelium undergoes oxidative stress and apoptosis with consequent renewal of superficial keratinized cells by proliferation and differentation of the stem cells of the basal germinative layer. In 3 distinct areas of lingual epithelium of rat and rabbit, the anterior third, central third and posterior third, we determined the activity of hexose monophosphate shunt enzymes and antioxidant enzymes, which are essential for support of cell proliferation and differentation. Enzymatic assays of the epithelium showed that glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity was highest in the anterior third, whereas activity of glutathione peroxidase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase and catalase was similar over all areas. Histochemical localization of activity and immunohistochemical localization of protein of G6PD showed that all types of papillae had a similar G6PD content; moreover, the presence of different G6PD isoforms in the 3 areas was excluded by electrophoretic analysis. We conclude that the higher G6PD activity in the anterior part of the epithelium is due only to the anatomical organization of the epithelial surface of this area, in which many filiform and fungiform papillae are arranged in a compact manner, which corresponds with a higher number of proliferating and differentiating cells. These processes need products of G6PD activity. This study indicates that G6PD is a good marker for the number of differentiating cells in tongue epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, Italy.
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49
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Biagiotti E, Bosch KS, Ninfali P, Frederiks WM, Van Noorden CJ. Posttranslational regulation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in tongue epithelium. J Histochem Cytochem 2000; 48:971-7. [PMID: 10858274 DOI: 10.1177/002215540004800710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity is high in tongue epithelium, but its exact function is still unknown. It may be related either to the high proliferation rate of this tissue or to protection against oxidative stress. To elucidate its exact role, we localized quantitatively G6PD activity, protein and mRNA using image analysis in tongue epithelium of rat and rabbit, two species with different diets. Distribution patterns of G6PD activity were largely similar in rat and rabbit but the activities were twofold lower in rabbit. Activity was two to three times higher in upper cell layers of epithelium than in basal cell layers, whereas basal layers, where proliferation takes place, contained twice as much G6PD protein and 40% more mRNA than upper layers. Our findings show that G6PD is synthetized mainly in basal cell layers of tongue epithelium and that it is posttranslationally activated when cells move to upper layers. Therefore, we conclude that the major function of G6PD activity in tongue epithelium is the formation of NADPH for protection against oxidative stress and that diet affects enzyme expression in this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Biagiotti
- Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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50
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Abstract
Divicine is an aglycone derived from vicine, a glucosidic compound contained in fava beans (Vicia faba major or broad beans). In this study, we investigated the effect of divicine on cultured human myoblasts from normal subjects, in order to see if the drug may induce signs of oxidant stress in these cells. Myoblasts incubated 24 hours in the presence of 1 mM divicine, showed an increase of carbonyl groups and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) bound to cell proteins, as well as a significant release of iron and lactate dehydrogenase in the culture medium. Desferrioxamine (DFO), an iron chelator, significantly prevented protein oxidation and formation 4-HNE adducts. Our results can be interpreted as indicating that divicine autooxidizes both at extracellular level and into myoblasts thus inducing the release of free iron, which initiates oxidation of cellular proteins and lipids. DFO protects the cells by subtracting the free iron both at intracellular and extracellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ninfali
- Istituto di Chimica Biologica, University of Urbino, Italy.
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