Study Protocol: Effect of Prune on Fracture Healing in Men and Women With a Wrist Fracture

Objectives

Prune has been shown to be beneficial in several chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. Specifically, daily fresh prune consumption may increase serum values of bone formation as well as protect and improve values of bone mineral density. However, the effect of prune on fracture healing has not been investigated. The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of prune in enhancing distal radius fracture healing.

Methods

A total of 50 men and women between the ages of 50 to 85 years, body mass index (BMI) range of 18.5–35.0 kg/m2, with a confirmed, closed, distal radius fracture will be recruited for this study. Three fracture types included are listed from least to most severe: extra-articular; non-comminuted, intra-articular; and comminuted, intra-articular. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: 1) 100 g daily of prune + standard of care (500 mg Calcium and 400 IU Vitamin D, twice daily; providing a total of 1000 mg Calcium and 800 IU Vitamin D) or 2) standard of care alone (500 mg Calcium and 400 IU Vitamin D, twice daily) daily for 12 weeks. Radius Union Scoring System (RUSS) for rate of healing will be assessed using anteroposterior and lateral X-ray. Additionally, range of motion (ROM), handgrip strength, and pain and functionality (via QuickDASH, the Veterans Rand 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), and the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS Pain)) will be assessed. For continuous variables (e.g., serum analyses), two-way mixed ANOVAs will be performed. For dichotomous variables, c2 tests will be performed to compare proportions between groups. For ordinal variables, Kruskal-Wallis H tests will be performed to compare ranking. Significance will be set at P ≤ 0.05. The findings of this study will further our understanding of the role of prune on fracture healing.

Results

N/A

Conclusions

N/A

Funding Sources

California Prune Board.

The Effect of 4-Week Creatine Supplementation on Lipid Profile in Older Adults

Objectives

Elevated levels of circulating cholesterol, lipids and glucose have been associated with pathologies such as heart disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Whilst pharmaceuticals help to manage these diseases, nutraceuticals have also been shown to elicit promising effects upon lipids and glucose sensitivity. Growing evidence also suggests that creatine supplementation, a popular ergogenic aid, may also serve as a therapeutic strategy for various pathologies. In addition to both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, evidence suggests that creatine may also attenuate circulating lipids and blood glucose. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of 4 weeks of creatine on lipids and blood glucose levels in older adults.

Methods

Twelve older adults (M = 6, W = 6, 58 ± 3 years) consumed creatine monohydrate (CM) and placebo for 4 weeks in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. Pre- and post-supplementation, participants underwent a fasted venous blood draw. Plasma levels of cholesterol (CHOL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides (TG), non-HDL cholesterol (nHDLc), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very LDL (vLDL), and glucose (GLU) were then analyzed using a Piccolo Xpress clinical chemistry analyzer. Results were analyzed by 2 × 2 Repeated Measures ANOVA, with significance accepted as p < 0.05.

Results

Following CM supplementation there were significant improvements in fasted TG (Pre: 99.81 ± 35.35 mg/dL, Post: 83.82 ± 37.65 mg/dL, p < .05) and GLU (Pre: 103.64 ± 6.28 mg/dL, Post: 99 ± 4.9 mg/dL, p < .05), in comparison to placebo. There were no significant changes following CM in LDL, HDL, nHDLc, or CHOL. There was a significant main effect of time in that vLDL decreased in both groups on average – 2.46 mg/dL

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that 4 weeks of CM supplementation led to a significant improvement in TG and GLU, but failed to improve CHOL, LDL, HDL, or nHDLc. Considering the correlation between triglycerides and glucose and pathologies such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, these results suggest potential for creatine to serve as an adjuvant therapeutic. However, further research is required to uncover potential mechanisms by which creatine may be exerting these novel benefits.

Funding Sources

American College of Sports Medicine - Doctoral Research Grant

Study Protocol: Effects of Daily Prune Consumption on Lipid Profile, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress

Objectives

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Atherosclerosis is recognized as a primary underlying cause of CVD resulting from oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and excess low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL). Prunes (Prunus domestica L.) are a nutritious food with components associated with improved cardiovascular health, including soluble fiber and polyphenolic compounds. The objective of this study is to investigate the cardioprotective benefits of prunes and determine the extent to which daily prune consumption effects blood lipids, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation in men.

Methods

Healthy osteopenic men aged 55 to 80 years old with body mass index of <18 to >40 data were included in this 12-month, parallel design, randomized controlled trial. Participants were placed into one of three treatment groups: 50 g/day prune, 100 g/day prune, or control (multivitamin only) for 12 months. All groups consumed a multivitamin containing 450 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D. During each visit (baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months) height, body weight, waist and hip circumference, heart rate, and blood pressure were assessed. Fasting blood and urine samples were collected at each time point, and participants completed a 3-day food record and validated physical activity questionnaire. Blood total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) will be measured.

Results

Study recruitment and retention is complete. Data analysis has yet to begin.

Conclusions

Based on the literature, whole foods high in polyphenols and soluble fiber, such as prunes, are beneficial in reducing chronic inflammation and circulating LDL-C. In the current study, we expect that long-term daily consumption of prunes will improve CVD risk factors including reductions in LDL and TC and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory cardiovascular benefits in older men. Findings from this research will further our understanding of the role that prunes may have in improving cardiovascular health.

Funding Sources

USDA, California Prune Board, and Shaklee.

The Antioxidative Effects of Smilax bona-nox Root Extract in Lipopolysaccharide-Activated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Objectives

Smilax bona-nox is a prickly vine native to southeastern United States and its root has traditionally been utilized for its medicinal properties. Chlorogenic acid, rutin, sinapic acid, and rosmarinic acid are the main constituents of Smilax bona-nox root extract (SRE), which are known for their antioxidative properties. Yet, there are no studies on the properties of SRE. Therefore, there is a need to first determine whether SRE has antioxidative properties in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Methods

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the total polyphenolic content of SRE. RAW264.7 murine macrophages were incubated and pre-treated with SRE (0, 50, 100, 200, and 300 μg/ml) for 24 hours followed by treatments with LPS (50 ng/ml) for an additional 24 hours. Media was collected for assessment of nitric oxide (NO). SRE-treated cells induced with LPS were further examined to assess levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Results

Cells treated with LPS and SRE did not show any decreases in cell viability. The polyphenolic contents of SRE were rutin (1,703.9 ppm), sinapic acid (1,136 ppm), rosmarinic acid (270.8 ppm), and chlorogenic acid (244.4 ppm). Reactive Oxidative Species (ROS) were decreased (P < 0.05) in LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with 50 and 100 μg/ml SRE. Nitric oxide (NO) production was unaffected by SRE treatment at any dosage.

Conclusions

This is the first study to our knowledge to examine the antioxidative properties of SRE. These findings indicate that SRE may be efficacious as an antioxidative agent as it significantly decreased ROS production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. These results encourage researchers to further study SRE's polyphenolic profile and its additional antioxidative properties.

Funding Sources

None.

Study Protocol Abstract: Effects of White Potato Consumption on Measures of Cardiometabolic Health in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Objectives

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) continues to increase in the United States, and the treatment of T2D and associated cardiovascular complications creates a large economic burden. Diet plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of T2D, and studies have suggested high glycemic index (GI) foods, in moderate amounts, may be safely incorporated in the diets of individuals with T2D. Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) are nutrient-dense vegetables, containing vitamins, minerals (e.g., potassium), essential amino acids, fiber, and phytochemicals. Therefore, the hypothesis of this study is that daily consumption of white potatoes will contribute to improvements in cardiometabolic health and diet quality in individuals with T2D. We will address this hypothesis with a cross-sectional examination of epidemiological data (NHANES, 2010–2018), as well as with a randomized crossover intervention.

Methods

For the cross-sectional examination, NHANES 2010–2018 data will be used to: 1) compare total white potato intake and white potato intake by preparation method in individuals with T2D, prediabetes, and no diabetes; and 2) explore the relationship between total white potato consumption, potato preparation methods, and diet quality in adults with T2D. For the randomized cross-over study, participants with non-insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes (45–80 y, BMI 25–40 kg/m²) will be randomly assigned to receive baked white potato (100g cooked with skin; 100kcals) or a calorie-matched refined grain (75g cooked long-grain white rice; control) daily for each of two 12-week treatment period, separated by a 2-week washout. Outcome variables will include indices of glycemic control, blood pressure, lipid profile, endothelial function, inflammation, and body composition.

Results

Study is currently ongoing.

Conclusions

This is the first study, to our knowledge, to 1) investigate the effects of white potato consumption on markers of cardiometabolic health in individuals with T2D, and 2) examine associations between white potato consumption, diet quality, and markers of cardiometabolic health in adults with T2D using the NHANES database.

Funding Sources

Alliance for Potato Research and Education.

Improving Dietary Intake of Essential Nutrients Can Ameliorate Inflammation in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are classified as chronic wounds and are one of the most common complications of diabetes. In chronic wounds, management of inflammation is a key step in treatment. Nutrition plays an important role in managing and controlling inflammation. This study evaluated the effects of nutrition supplementation and education on inflammatory biomarkers in patients with DFUs. Eligible patients with foot ulcers were randomly assigned to either a treatment (n = 15) or control group (n = 14). Both groups received standard care for wound treatment from the clinic; however, the treatment group was also provided with nutritional supplementation and education. Plasma concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, namely C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL6), interleukin 10 (IL10), and tristetraprolin (TTP), were evaluated at baseline and every four weeks, until complete wound closure had occurred or up to 12 weeks. The mean plasma concentration of IL6 significantly decreased in the treatment group (p = 0.001). The interaction between time and group was not statistically significant for the mean plasma concentrations of CRP, IL10, and TTP during the 12 weeks of the study. The results of this study showed the positive effects of nutritional intervention on controlling inflammation in DFU patients. More clinical trials with a larger population and longer duration of time are needed to confirm our results.

Feasibility of an MI-CBT ketogenic adherence program for older adults with mild cognitive impairment

BACKGROUND

The National Institutes of Health Obesity-Related Behavioral Intervention Trials model for intervention development was used to establish the feasibility and proof of concept of a motivational ketogenic nutrition adherence program for older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

METHODS

This was a single-arm, single-center feasibility trial. A comprehensive assessment protocol, including a clinical interview, neuropsychological testing, and genetic sequencing was used as an initial screening. Nine participants (aged 64-75) with possible amnestic mild cognitive impairment were consented for the intervention. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention neuropsychological assessments using the updated Repeatable Battery for Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. Participants tracked their macronutrient consumption using food diaries and ketone levels using urinalysis test strips daily. Mood and other psychosocial variables were collected through surveys, and qualitative exit interviews were completed.

RESULTS

100% of participants who began the trial completed the 6-week ketogenic nutrition adherence program, including completion of the pre- and post-assessments. Eight participants achieved measurable levels of ketones during the program. The average self-rated adherence across the program was 8.7 out of 10. A Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test demonstrated significant improvement in cognitive performance from baseline (median = 88) to follow up (median = 96, Z = - 2.26, p = .024). The average difference in cognitive performance from baseline to follow-up was - 7.33 (95% CI - 12.85, - 1.82).

CONCLUSIONS

Results supported the feasibility for moving to the next phase and demonstrated proof of concept for the intervention. The next step is a randomized pilot trial to test clinical signals of effect compared to a control condition.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was retrospectively registered with clinicaltrials.gov on July 13, 2021. The trial number is NCT04968041.

The Effects Of 6-Month Dried Plum Supplementation on Bone Health and Serum Cytokines in Men

Objectives

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of dried plum supplementation on modulating cytokines involved in macrophage polarization, osteoblast differentiation biomarkers, and functional outcomes of bone health in osteopenic men.

Methods

60 men (Groups A, n = 24; B, n = 23; C, n = 13) between the ages of 55 and 80 with bone loss (T-score between −0.1 and −2.5 SD below the mean) were included in this study. Group A, B, and C consumed 100g, 50g, or 0g of dried plums daily for six months, respectively. All three groups also consumed a multivitamin containing 450 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D. Serum samples of 49 participants were analyzed at baseline, three months, and six months for concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-4 (IL-4), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand RANKL, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). DXA scans were performed to measure site specific bone mineral

density and bone mineral content at baseline, three months, and six months.

Results

Our results indicate that after six months there was no significant differences for anthropometric or body composition measurements. Neither group had a protective effect on bone density, however, there was a time dependent decrease in left hip BMD at 6 months compared to 3 months (P &lt; 0.05) and radius BMD at 3 months compared to baseline (P &lt; 0.05). A significant time*treatment effect was detected for concentrations of TNF-α for both DP groups compared to control. There were no significant differences for any other serum biomarkers assessed. Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between baseline BMD values and baseline concentrations of blood biomarkers.

Conclusions

The results indicate that 6 months of DP supplementation in men with bone loss does not have bone protective properties. Perhaps, the participants in our study did not have a sufficient degree of bone loss at baseline to experience benefits from DP. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DP attenuate increases in TNF-α, which is a cytokine that is involved in M1 macrophage polarization. Future research should focus on a wider range of baseline BMD scores, and should assess other biomarkers associated with macrophage polarization states to fully understand the relationship between the immune system and bone.

Funding Sources

USDA, Califorina Dried Plum

The Short-Term Effects of Prunes in Preventing Inflammation and Improving Indices of Bone Health in Osteopenic Men

Objectives

Osteoporosis is a public health concern for both women and men. Chronic inflammation contributes to bone loss; therefore, foods rich in antioxidants, such as prunes, are of great interest. Previously, dietary intervention with prunes has been shown to prevent orchidectomy-induced decreases in BMD, microstructure, and biomechanics in male rats; however, there is a need for this to be studied in a clinical setting in adult males.

Methods

Thirty-five men between the ages of 55 and 80 with moderate bone loss were included. The men were randomized into one of three groups: 100 g prunes daily, 50 g prunes daily, or control group. All three groups also consumed a multivitamin containing 450 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D. Serum samples from the baseline and three-month time points were analyzed for biomarkers of bone turnover, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Results

After three months, daily consumption of 100 g prunes was associated with a significant decrease in serum concentrations of osteocalcin (P &lt; 0.001). Consumption of 50 g of prunes was associated with significant decreases in systolic blood pressure, and serum osteocalcin concentrations (P = 0.040), and an increase in the OPG: RANKL ratio (P = 0.041). There were also significant decreases in systolic blood pressure, OPG (P = 0.004), RANKL (P = 0.010), and osteocalcin (P = 0.049) in control group. There was a significant group*time effect for changes in OPG (P = 0.019) and the OPG: RANKL ratio (P = 0.029).

Conclusions

Decreases in osteocalcin indicate a decrease in bone turnover, and a higher OPG: RANKL ratio indicates that more RANKL is bound to OPG, and not to osteoclasts, thus downregulating osteoclast activity. Therefore, regular consumption of either 100 g or 50 g dried plum for three months may make some contributions to bone formation and bone turnover activity, and minimal contribution to decreasing inflammation and improving bone density and quality.

Funding Sources

USDA/NIFA, California Prune Board, and Shaklee.

Alterations in Gut Health, Bone and Inflammatory Biomarkers, and Blood Flow After Three Months of Prune Consumption

Objectives

Inflammation has been shown to play a role in a variety of disease states including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Leaky gut has been implicated in contributing to these inflammatory states. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of daily prune consumption on inflammatory markers, bone density, and cardiovascular health in an osteopenic male population.

Methods

Twenty-eight healthy men between the ages of 55 and 80, whose lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) t-score was between −1.0 and −2.5 were randomized to 0, 50, or 100 g of prunes and 450 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D daily for three-months. Participants kept daily logs for the assessment of compliance. DXA scan, blood, anthropometrics, blood pressure (BP), BMD, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and resting blood flow (BF) were collected at baseline and at three months. Serum and plasma samples were subjected to ELISA for the assessment of inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-α), and interluekin-6 (IL-6). Bone turnover markers included osteoprotegerin (OPG) and the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL). Gut health was assessed by the measurement of serum lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBS) and zonulin. Blood flow was assessed via strain-gauge plethysmography.

Results

All participants were compliant with the daily supplements. Mean baseline total bone mass was 3004 ± 472 g. Pre- and post-treatment data were analyzed (mean ± SD, pre vs post) for body weight (85.7 ± 13.4 vs 84.6 ± 12.9), waist to hip ratio (0.96 ± 0.063 vs 0.97 ± 0.014), resting blood flow (3.07 ± 1.25 vs. 3.92 ± 1.10), and mean arterial pressure (92.7 ± 10.0 vs 91.1 ± 9.5), all at P &gt; 0.05.

Conclusions

While statistical comparisons did not reveal any significant changes in this preliminary data set with the addition of prunes to the diet, additional parameters of inflammation, bone density and turnover, and gut health are currently being evaluated.

Funding Sources

California Dried Plum Board.

The Antioxidative Effects of Borago Officinalis in Lipopolysaccharide and Hydrogen Peroxide-Activated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Objectives

Borage (Borago officinalis) is a plant herb found widely in Asian and Mediterranean regions which has been used for the treatment of chronic conditions and diseases. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and phenolic acids are important constituents of borage, which are known for their antioxidative properties. However, little is known regarding the mechanisms in which borage elicits its antioxidant effects. Therefore, it is important to further examine the antioxidative properties of Borago officinalis extract (BOE) on levels of biomarkers of oxidative stress in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Methods

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the total polyphenolic content of BOE. RAW264.7 murine macrophages were incubated with BOE (0, 50, 100, 200 and 300 µg/ml) followed by treatments with LPS (50 ng/ml) or H2O2 (50 ng/ml) for 24 hours. Media was collected for assessment of nitric oxide (NO), and the cell lysates were collected for determining levels of catalase. BOE treated cells induced with LPS and H2O2 were further examined to assess levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Results

Cells treated with LPS, H2O2, as well as BOE did not show any decreases in cell viability. The total polyphenolic content of BOE was 102.4 mg/g, with rosmarinic acid the most abundant polyphenol. BOE decreased (P &lt; 0.05) levels of NO when induced with LPS at 300 µg/ml and at dosages of 100, 200, and 300 µg/ml when cells were stimulated with H2O2. The level of catalase was increased (P &lt; 0.05) in H2O2-stimulated macrophages treated with 300 µg/ml BOE.

Conclusions

This is the first study to our knowledge to mechanistically examine the antioxidative properties of crude BOE in H2O2 and LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. These findings indicate that BOE is efficacious as an antioxidative agent which can be used as an alternative or adjuvant therapy. Further research is needed to determine the benefits of BOE's polyphenolic profile and GLA to isolate constituents of interest.

Funding Sources

None.

Gender differences in the effect of blackberry supplementation in vascular senescence and atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice

As the cardiovascular system ages, it becomes more vulnerable to the effects of oxidative stress and inflammation. The aging process, along with external factors such as radiation exposure and lifestyle, induces vascular senescence and accelerates atherosclerotic plaque accumulation. Expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 (Nox1), which produces superoxide, is associated with senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro and atherosclerosis in ApoE^-/- mice in vivo. However, it is unknown whether Nox1 could be down-regulated by nutritional interventions aimed to reduce atherosclerosis. Here we study the effect of blackberry supplementation in Nox1 expression and atherosclerosis. Four-month-old ApoE^-/- male and female mice were fed low-fat, high-fat or high-fat supplemented with 2% freeze-dried blackberry powder diets for 5 weeks. Analysis of the aorta showed that diet supplemented with blackberry significantly decreased plaque accumulation, senescence associated-β-galactosidase and Nox1 expression in the aorta of male but not female mice. The lipid profile was unchanged by blackberry in both female and male animals. Thus, the known role of Nox1 in atherosclerosis suggests that the atheroprotective effect of blackberry is mediated by Nox1 down-regulation in male mice and that Nox1 is regulated in a gender-dependent manner in females.

Dietary Protein Intake Associations with Insulin Resistance, BMI, Body Composition and Other Metabolic Markers in Subjects with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (P08-020-19)

Objectives

The incidence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) continues to increase and many individuals are not aware of having early stages of the disease until symptoms develop. Much focus has been on carbohydrate consumption for this population, with no established recommendations for protein intake and source. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the relationship between protein intake (amount and source) on glycemic control, and indices of cardiovascular health in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM.

Methods

Sixty-two overweight and obese men and women with prediabetes or T2DM, between the ages of 45–75 years participated in this study. Participants were stratified based on their protein intake: below (<0.8 g/kg body weight (bw); n = 17), meeting (0.8–1.0 g/kg bw; n = 22), and above (≥1.0 g/kg bw; n = 23) recommended levels. Measurements included blood biomarkers (lipid panel and glycemic control), anthropometric parameters, food records, and body composition, which were assessed for each group using one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient for overall associations. Significance was accepted at (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

Body mass index (BMI), hip circumference (HC) and waist circumference (WC) were significantly higher in participants who consumed below recommended levels compared to above (35.1 ± 1.3 vs. 28.3 ± 0.9 kg/m2; 118.7 ± 3.2 vs. 105.2 ± 1.8 cm; 109.1 ± 2. vs. 96.8 ± 2.5 cm, respectively). Fat-to-lean mass (FM/LM) ratio was significantly lower in participants who consumed above recommended when compared to below and recommended levels (0.63 ± 0.03; 0.81 ± 0.04; 0.78 ± 0.07). Insulin resistance tended to be lower (3.53 ± 0.55 vs 5.19 ± 0.94; P = 0.09) in the above recommended group compared to below. Higher animal-to-plant protein ratios were significantly associated with higher insulin secretion (r = 0.259). Higher animal protein was associated with significantly lower triglyceride concentrations (r = 0.263).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that consumption of ≥1.0 g/kg bw protein was associated with lowered insulin resistance, in addition to lower BMI, HC, WC, and FM, without adverse effects on lipid profiles in this population. Additionally, increased animal protein may be associated with better outcomes for this population.

Funding Sources

There are no funding sources to disclose for this study.

Insight into Bone Protective Mechanisms of Dried Plum Using an Ovariectomized Rat Model (OR18-06-19)

Objectives

Osteoporosis may result in fracture with dire consequences. For instance, 40% of people with their second hip fracture die within two years. Aside from pharmaceutical interventions, that are not free of side effects, identifying edible and safe foods to prevent bone loss is of importance. We and others have shown that dried plum (DP) prevents loss of bone both in ovariectomized (Ovx) rat models as well as postmenopausal women. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine the bone protective mechanism of action of DP, a rich source of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, in preventing bone loss using a rat model of ovarian hormone deficiency.

Methods

Forty-eight 90-day old female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: sham-operated (Sham), Ovx, Ovx + 5% DP (low-dose, LD), and Ovx + 25% DP (high-dose, HD). Treatments started immediately after surgery and continued for 45 days. Animals were either fed a semi-purified diet, or a similar diet in which 5% or 25% of the diet (w/w) consisted of DP. All diets were made isocaloric and isonitrogenous containing 0.4% calcium and 0.3% phosphorus. Food intake, bone mineral density, bone mineral content, body/organ weight, blood biomarkers of bone metabolism, and static bone histomorphometry were assessed.

Results

The right femoral and the 4th lumbar vertebrae density were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the Ovx control rats compared to Sham. The loss of density in both bones were completely prevented by HD-DP (P < 0.05). The HD-DP increased insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) significantly (P < 0.05) from 110 ± 4 ηmol/L to 135 ± 4 ηmol/L. In terms of bone histomorphometry, % bone area was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased as a result of Ovx and HD-DP nearly prevented this decrease (P > 0.05). Although the endosteal perimeter (mm2) was not statistically different from other groups, the endosteal perimeter of the HD-DP group was 13.6% lower than that of the Ovx group.

Conclusions

The bone protective effects of DP may, in part, be explained by an increase in IGF-1, which is strongly correlated with bone formation, and a decrease in the endosteal perimeter, which is increased in ovarian hormone deficiency and postmenopausal women. Future studies should examine radiolabeling compounds in DP to see how they contribute to its bone protective effects.

Funding Sources

There have been no funding sources.

Fat Intake Associations with Metabolic Profile and Body Composition in Subjects with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes (P08-029-19)

Objectives

Prevalence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes is increasing in the United States, and can result in other disease states, such as heart disease and obesity. Fat consumption has become more common, due to new dietary recommendations as well as the rise in popularity of high fat diets. It is therefore of interest to analyze the associations of the prediabetic and type 2 diabetic state with regard to fat consumption as well as metabolic biomarkers and anthropometrics to draw possible connections between dietary patterns and physiological responses to them.

Methods

The biomarkers (lipid panel and glycemic control), anthropometric data, body composition (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) and food records of 62 prediabetic or type 2 diabetic participants were obtained. Correlations from the aforementioned variables were assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient in SPSS. Significance was accepted at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was negatively associated with polyunsaturated fat consumption (r2 = –0.258, P < 0.05). Additionally, total fat (r2 = –0.300, P < 0.05) and trans fatty acid (r2 = –0.258, P < 0.05) intake was negatively associated with arm lean mass. High density lipoprotein (HDL) was negatively associated with arm (r2 = –0.305, P < 0.05) and leg lean mass (r2 = –0.360, P < 0.01), as well as android (r2 = –0.343, P < 0.01), gynoid (r2 =–0.353, P < 0.01), and total lean mass (r2 = –0.353, P < 0.01). Total fat and specific fat intake were not significantly associated with other metabolic biomarkers.

Conclusions

Fat has become less demonized as high fat diets have become more popular and as nutritional recommendations have changed, but in the absence of ketosis it may not be as beneficial for diabetic and prediabetic populations. Interestingly, fat intake was not negatively or positively associated with any biomarkers, except for the case of polyunsaturated fat intake, which was associated with lower LDL levels. Surprisingly HDL levels were associated with decreased levels of lean mass. Future interventional studies are needed to further examine the effects of fat intake, including amount and sources, in this population.

Funding Sources

N/A.

The Short-Term Effect of Dried Plums on Inflammation and Indices of Bone Health in Osteopenic Men (P01-027-19)

Objectives

Osteoporosis has significant public health importance for both women and men, where 54% of the U.S. population age 50 and older have low bone mineral density (BMD). Chronic inflammation alters bone remodeling, which is one contributor to bone loss; therefore, foods rich in antioxidants, such as dried plums (DP, Prunus domestica L.), are of great interest for preventing chronic inflammation. Previously, dietary intervention with DP has been shown to prevent orichidectomy-induced decreases in BMD, microstructure, and biomechanics in male rats; however, this has yet to be studied in a clinical setting in adult males.

Methods

One-hundred and sixty osteopenic men are being recruited from the greater Tallahassee, Florida area to examine the effects of DP on BMD, bone biomarkers, and inflammation after one year of regular consumption. The present analysis is of a subset of this population, documenting the effects of two doses of DP on biomarkers of inflammation and bone metabolism in men after three months of consumption. Twenty-seven men between the ages of 55 and 80 with moderate bone loss (T-score between −0.1 and −2.5 SD below the mean) were included. The men were randomized into one of three groups: 100 g DP, 50 g DP, or control group, with all three groups given a multivitamin containing 450 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D (Shaklee Corporation). Serum samples from the baseline and three-month time points were analyzed for C-reactive protein (CRP) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP). DXA scans of the lumbar vertebrae alongside TBS iNnsight® software were used to generate trabecular bone score (TBS).

Results

Three months of DP consumption was associated with numerical increases in BAP in both the 100 g (6.5%, P = 0.14) and 50 g (6.3%, P = 0.3) DP groups, numerical decreases in CRP in both the 100 g (−8.8%, P = 0.75) and 50 g (−8.5%, P = 0.71) DP groups, and minimal change in TBS in both the 100 g (0.37%, P = 0.71) and 50 g (−0.55%, P = 0.44) DP groups.

Conclusions

Regular consumption of either 100 g or 50 g DP for three months may contribute to increases in bone formation and decreases in inflammation, however not to an extent that affects bone quality. Three months of consumption may not be long enough to manifest changes in bone; therefore, further analysis of data after six months and one year of DP consumption in a larger number of men is warranted.

Funding Sources

USDA-NIFA, Shaklee Corporation, California Dried Plum Board.

Cornus Officinalis Polyphenol Extract Decrease Pro-inflammatory Markers in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 Macrophages (P06-087-19)

Objectives

To investigate whether cornus officinalis (CO) polyphenol extract attenuate the inflammatory response induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Methods

CO polyphenol extract was prepared using methanolic extraction, followed by solvent evaporation and freeze-drying. RAW 264.7 macrophages were treated with 0, 50, 100, 200 and 400 μg/ml of CO polyphenol extract. After 2 h, cells were then treated with 100 ng/ml of LPS for 6 h. Cells were then collected for whole cell protein expression analysis of signaling and inflammatory molecules via western blot. Results were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Tukey-Kramer post-hoc test.

Results

LPS treatment significantly increased Akt phosphorylation compared to control (1.00 ± 0.00 vs 0.16 ± 0.02 fold, P < 0.0001). However, pre-treatment with 100, 200 and 400 µg/ml of CO polyphenol extract significantly reduced Akt phosphorylation (0.57 ± 0.08 fold, P = 0.0030; 0.49 ± 0.08 fold, P = 0.0003 and 0.44 ± 0.09 fold, P < 0.0001, respectively) in LPS stimulated macrophages compared to LPS alone. Control cells did not express inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); however, LPS induced iNOS expression, which was significantly decreased by treatment with 400 µg/ml CO polyphenol extract (1.00 ± 0.00 vs 0.36 ± 0.1 fold, P = 0.0098). Similarly, inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and 6 were not expressed in control macrophages; however, their expression was induced by LPS. CO polyphenol extract dose-dependently decreased LPS-induced expression of IL-1β (P < 0.0001) and IL-6 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

CO polyphenol extract attenuated the inflammatory response induced by LPS in RAW 264.7 macrophages. This effect is likely due to Akt downstream signaling inhibition.

Funding Sources

Lewis Foundation Grant Program.

Gain-of-function mutations in beet DODA2 identify key residues for betalain pigment evolution

The key enzymatic step in betalain biosynthesis involves conversion of l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA) to betalamic acid. One class of enzymes capable of this is 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine 4,5-dioxygenase (DODA). In betalain-producing species, multiple paralogs of this gene are maintained. This study demonstrates which paralogs function in the betalain pathway and determines the residue changes required to evolve a betalain-nonfunctional DODA into a betalain-functional DODA. Functionalities of two pairs of DODAs were tested by expression in beets, Arabidopsis and yeast, and gene silencing was performed by virus-induced gene silencing. Site-directed mutagenesis identified amino acid residues essential for betalamic acid production. Beta vulgaris and Mirabilis jalapa both possess a DODA1 lineage that functions in the betalain pathway and at least one other lineage, DODA2, that does not. Site-directed mutagenesis resulted in betalain biosynthesis by a previously nonfunctional DODA, revealing key residues required for evolution of the betalain pathway. Divergent functionality of DODA paralogs, one clade involved in betalain biosynthesis but others not, is present in various Caryophyllales species. A minimum of seven amino acid residue changes conferred betalain enzymatic activity to a betalain-nonfunctional DODA paralog, providing insight into the evolution of the betalain pigment pathway in plants.

TTG2 controls the developmental regulation of seed coat tannins in Arabidopsis by regulating vacuolar transport steps in the proanthocyanidin pathway

The brown color of Arabidopsis seeds is caused by the deposition of proanthocyanidins (PAs or condensed tannins) in their inner testa layer. A transcription factor complex consisting of TT2, TT8 and TTG1 controls expression of PA biosynthetic genes, just as similar TTG1-dependent complexes have been shown to control flavonoid pigment pathway gene expression in general. However, PA synthesis is controlled by at least one other gene. TTG2 mutants lack the pigmentation found in wild-type seeds, but produce other flavonoid compounds, such as anthocyanins in the shoot, suggesting that TTG2 regulates genes in the PA biosynthetic branch of the flavonoid pathway. We analyzed the expression of PA biosynthetic genes within the developing seeds of ttg2-1 and wild-type plants for potential TTG2 regulatory targets. We found that expression of TT12, encoding a MATE type transporter, is dependent on TTG2 and that TTG2 can bind to the upstream regulatory region of TT12 suggesting that TTG2 directly regulates TT12. Ectopic expression of TT12 in ttg2-1 plants partially restores seed coat pigmentation. Moreover, we show that TTG2 regulation of TT12 is dependent on TTG1 and that TTG1 and TTG2 physically interact. The observation that TTG1 interacts with TTG2, a WRKY type transcription factor, proposes the existence of a novel TTG1-containing complex, and an addendum to the existing paradigm of flavonoid pathway regulation.

Tyrosine Hydroxylation in Betalain Pigment Biosynthesis Is Performed by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in Beets (Beta vulgaris)

Yellow and red-violet betalain plant pigments are restricted to several families in the order Caryophyllales, where betacyanins play analogous biological roles to anthocyanins. The initial step in betalain biosynthesis is the hydroxylation of tyrosine to form L-DOPA. Using gene expression experiments in beets, yeast, and Arabidopsis, along with HPLC/MS analysis, the present study shows that two novel cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes, CYP76AD6 and CYP76AD5, and the previously described CYP76AD1 can perform this initial step. Co-expressing these CYP450s with DOPA 4,5-dioxygenase in yeast, and overexpression of these CYP450s in yellow beets show that CYP76AD1 efficiently uses L-DOPA leading to red betacyanins while CYP76AD6 and CYP76AD5 lack this activity. Furthermore, CYP76AD1 can complement yellow beetroots to red while CYP76AD6 and CYP76AD5 cannot. Therefore CYP76AD1 uniquely performs the beet R locus function and beets appear to be genetically redundant for tyrosine hydroxylation. These new functional data and ancestral character state reconstructions indicate that tyrosine hydroxylation alone was the most likely ancestral function of the CYP76AD alpha and beta groups and the ability to convert L-DOPA to cyclo-DOPA evolved later in the alpha group.

Inhibitors of arachidonoyl ethanolamide hydrolysis

Arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide) is a naturally occurring brain constituent that binds to a specific brain cannabinoid receptor (CBR1). An amidase activity (anandamide amidase) in membrane fractions of brain and in cultured neuroblastoma cells rapidly degrades anandamide to arachidonic acid (Deutsch, D. G., and Chin, S. (1993) Biochem. Pharmacol. 46, 791-796). In the current study, analogs of anandamide representing three classes of putative transition-state inhibitor (trifluoromethyl ketones, alpha-keto esters, and alpha-keto amides) were synthesized and tested as inhibitors of anandamide hydrolysis in vitro and as ligands for CBR1. The trifluoromethyl ketones and alpha-keto esters showed nearly 100% inhibition of anandamide hydrolysis in vitro at 7.5 microM inhibitor and 27.7 microM anandamide. Arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone was the only synthetic compound in the series of fatty acid derivatives able to displace [3H]CP-55940 binding to CBR1 with a Ki of 0.65 microM. It was also the most effective inhibitor in intact neuroblastoma cells, leading to a 12-fold increase of cellular anandamide levels at 12 microM. From the action of these inhibitors on this hydrolytic enzyme, it seems likely that anandamide is cleaved by a mechanism that involves an active-site serine hydroxyl group. These inhibitors may serve as useful tools to elucidate the role anandamide plays in vivo.