bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of dietary sea squirt (Halocynthia roretzi) on lipid metabolism in rats
Authors: Kawasaki Masashi
Published: December 2008

The effect of dietary sea squirt (Halocynthia roretzi) on lipid metabolism in rats was investigated. Rats were fed sea squirt muscle (Experiment 1); sea squirt muscle, defatted sea squirt muscle and its hexane extract (Experiment 2); and whole body sea squirt and its parts as muscle or viscera (Experiment 3). All of the diets contained the same levels of protein (20%) and lipid (7%). In experiment 1, serum total cholesterol (T‐Ch), very‐low‐density lipoprotein plus low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL+LDL)‐Ch, triglyceride (TG), phospholipid (PL) and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels were reduced by 20% dietary sea squirt muscle ingestion; steroid excretions into feces were enhanced by the same diet. In experiment 2, serum T‐Ch, (VLDL+LDL)‐Ch, TG, PL and NEFA levels were significantly reduced and steroid excretions into feces were significantly enhanced by ingestion of the sea squirt muscle hexane extract. Ingestion of defatted sea squirt muscle also reduced these serum lipid levels, but not as much as did that of whole sea squirt muscle. In experiment 3, serum T‐Ch and HDL‐Ch levels were significantly elevated by the 10% sea squirt viscera ingestion.
Inhibitory activity of shiitake flavor against platelet aggregation
Authors: Shimada Shoichiro , Komamura Koji , Kumagai Hitomi , Sakurai Hidetoshi
Published: December 2008

Sulfuric‐flavored compounds were extracted from shiitake (Lentinus edodes) and their inhibitory activity against platelet aggregation was investigated. Platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid and U‐46619, the analog of thromboxane A2, was inhibited by the essential oil from shiitake that contained lenthionine as a major sulfuric compound. This result indicates that the inhibitory site of the shiitake flavor compounds would be different from that of garlic‐flavor compounds because the latter inhibits the passage between arachidonic acid and thromboxane A2. The effect of the synthesized lenthionine was almost equivalent to that of the essential oil, which indicates that the inhibitory activity of the essential oil from shiitake would be mainly attributed to lenthionine.
Content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in serum and liver of rats fed restricted diets supplemented with vitamins B2, B6 and folic acid
Authors: Bertrandt Jerzy , Klos Anna , Debski Bogdan
Published: December 2008

The aim of study was to investigate an influence of nutritional deficiency and dietary addition of vit. B2, B6 and folic acid on PUFAs content in rats' serum and liver. Limitation of consumption full value diet to 50% of its previously determined daily consumption, enriched with m/a vitamins, significant decreased of linoleic (LA) and α‐linolenic (ALA) acids as well as distinctly increased arachidonic (AA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids content in serum in 30th day. In 60th day lower content of AA and DHA fatty acids was found. Nutrition with such diet, lasting 90 days caused decrease of LA content and increase of AA. Diet limitation to its 30% of daily consumption decreased of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA in the 30th day, while AA and DHA content was increased in the 60th day. Distinct decrease of AA content and increase of EPA content were found in the 90th day of experiment. Use of diets, with limited consumption to 50% caused increase of LA and ALA acids content while AA and DHA acids content were significantly decreased in the liver, in 90th day. Limited consumption supplemented diet to 30% caused in liver significant decrease of LA and increase of EPA acids content.
Effects of an exopolysaccharide (kefiran) on lipids, blood pressure, blood glucose, and constipation
Authors: Maeda Hiroaki , Zhu Xia , Omura Kazunobu , Suzuki Shiho , Kitamura Shinichi
Published: December 2008

Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens was reported to produce an exopolysaccharide named kefiran. In the present study, we developed a new medium, rice hydrolyzate (RH) medium, for the culture of L. kefiranofaciens. Structural analyses revealed that the exopolysaccharide produced by L. kefiranofaciens from RH medium was composed of a hexasaccharide repeating unit, and essentially identical to the kefiran reported in previous studies. A study on the effects of kefiran in animals demonstrated that kefiran significantly suppressed increase of blood pressure and reduced the serum cholesterol levels in SHRSP/Hos rats when subjects consumed excessive dietary cholesterol. Kefiran supplementation demonstrated the ability to significantly lower blood glucose in KKAy mice. In addition, the administration of kefiran in constipated SD rats caused an obvious improvement in the levels of fecal moisture and wet weights of feces. These results suggest that kefiran could be used as a functional food to prevent some commonly occurring diseases.
High‐throughput profiling of dietary polyphenols and their metabolites by HPLC‐ESI‐MS‐MS in human urine
Authors: Ito Hideyuki , Gonthiera Marie‐Paule , Manach Claudine , Morand Christine , Mennen Louise , Rémésy Christian , Scalbert Augustin
Published: December 2008

Polyphenols in biological fluids are generally estimated by HPLC with UV, electrochemical or fluorimetric detection. We describe herein a method specially developed to estimate biomarkers of polyphenol consumption in human urine. We simultaneously quantified 15 polyphenols and their related compounds in human urine using an HPLC coupled with electrospray ionization mass‐mass (HPLC‐ESI‐MS‐MS) method with an analytical run time of 6 min. The method has been validated with respect to linearity, precision, and accuracy in intra‐ and inter‐day assays. It has been applied to human urine samples collected from volunteers after consumption of different polyphenol‐rich beverages in controlled conditions.
The production of hypoallergenic wheat flour and the analysis of its allergy suppressive effects
Authors: Watanabe Jun , Tanabe Soichi , Watanabe Michiko , Shinmoto Hiroshi , Sonoyama Kei
Published: December 2008

We propose a novel method to produce hypoallergenic wheat flour suitable for patients allergic to wheat by using enzymatic fragmentation with cellulase and actinase. The hypoallergenic flour displayed potent inhibitory activity against allergen absorption and actively suppressed allergic reactions, probably inducing oral tolerance. The results suggest that hypoallergenic wheat flour has allergy‐suppressive effects without inducing side effects.
Characteristics and physiological functions of polyphenols from apples
Authors: Akazome Yoko
Published: December 2008

Apples contain many kinds of polyphenols, and the main components are oligomeric procyanidins. Applephenon® is apple polyphenol extract produced commercially from unripe apples, and has been used as food additive in order to prevent oxidation of components in foods and its application in functional foods is expected. In a lipid metabolism regulation study, administration of Applephenon® has the potential to exert strong anti‐oxidative activity and to inhibit consumption of vitamin E and anti‐oxidative enzymes. Double blind clinical trials of Applephenon® on pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis, and tests using type I allergic model mice suggested that Applephenon® might regulate allergic reactions. We found the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of Applephenon® is greater than 2000 mg/kg in a 90day consecutive oral administration toxicity test in rats, and Applephenon® is safe and acceptable based on mutagenicity tests.
Biological activity in traditional Alaska pollack sikhae during low temperature fermentation
Authors: Cha Yong‐Jun , Jeong Eun‐Jeong , Kim Hun , Cho Woo‐Jin , Nam Gi‐Jin
Published: December 2008

Biological activity was examined on Alaska pollack sikhae produced with 4 treatments (by irradiating at 5 or 10 kGy, or by adding either 0.1 or 0.3% of chitooligosaccharide), compared with control (2‐step fermentation only) during fermentation at ‐2°C. The extracts (500 ppm level) of sikhae had antimicrobial activities against 4 different strains of food poisoning bacteria such as Staphy. aureus, B. subtilis, B. cereus, and L. monocytogenes. Antioxidative activity (EDA50, 11.55 mg/mL) in control group increased with time up to 60 days of fermentation but decreased thereafter, while those levels in other products were kept within 10.60–18.30 mg/mL ranges during fermentation. Inhibitory activity of angiotensin‐I converting enzyme (ACE) (IC50, 1.51–2.89 mg/mL) in all products was observed during fermentation except at 0 day. Inhibitory activity of xanthine oxidase (XO) (IC50, 0.65–0.87 mg/mL) in all products also increased with time up to 30 days of fermentation. Without irradiating or adding of chitooligosaccharide, Alaska pollack sikhae showing biological activities was enough by 2‐step fermentation and storage at ‐2°C only.
Simple and rapid determination of 1‐deoxynojirimycin in mulberry leaves
Authors: Kimura Toshiyuki , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Saito Yuko , Yamagishi Kenji , Suzuki Masahiro , Yamaki Kohji , Shinmoto Hiroshi , Miyazawa Teruo
Published: December 2008

A simple and rapid method for determining 1‐deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a potent glucosidase inihibitor present in mulberry leaves (Morus alba and Morus bombysis), by high performance liquid chromatography coupled to an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) has been developed. DNJ was separated from extract of mulberry leaves on TSK gel Amide‐80 column, which is a representative column for hydrophilic interaction chromatography. During post column detection, DNJ was detected by ELSD and concurrently identified by mass spectrometry. The detection limit was 100 ng. This method is sufficiently sensitive for determining DNJ in mulberry leaves and other related products.
Benzyl isothiocyanate modifies expression of the G2/M arrest‐related genes
Authors: Miyoshi Noriyuki , Uchida Koji , Osawa Toshihiko , Nakamura Yoshimasa
Published: December 2008

Naturally occurring isothiocyanates are effective chemoprotective agents against chemical carcinogenesis in experimental animals. In the present study, we clarified the molecular mechanism underlying the relationship between benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC)‐induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The exposure of HL‐60 cells to BITC resulted in the inhibition of the G2/M progression that coincided with the apoptosis induction. We demonstrated that BITC significantly up‐regulated expression of the G2/M cell cycle arrest‐regulating genes including p21, GADD45, and 14–3–3σ. Thus, these gathered data further supported that BITC has a potential to induce apoptosis selectively in the proliferating pre‐cancerous cells through a cell cycle arrest‐dependent mechanism.
Food‐derived peptides and intestinal functions
Authors: Shimizu Makoto
Published: December 2008

Many researchers have reported that food proteins and their peptides expressed a variety of functions in the body, including a reduction of blood pressure, modulation of immune cell functions, and regulation of nerve functions. However, food‐derived proteins and peptides also play important roles in the intestinal tract before being absorbed. For example, some of the proteins and peptides can regulate the activity of digestive enzymes in the intestinal tract, thereby modulating the nutrient absorption in the intestines. These proteins and peptides have been used for functional foods with blood glucose‐ and blood cholesterol‐lowering effects. Enhancement of the intestinal calcium absorption by casein‐derived peptides is another example, such peptides being used as functional food ingredients. We have recently observed that certain milk peptides might stimulate the calcium transporter in intestinal epithelial cells. Carnosine, a dipeptide contained in skeletal muscles, was observed to suppress the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by intestinal epithelial cells that had been exposed to oxidative stress. Understanding the behavior of dietary proteins and peptides in the intestines is important for designing functional foods with physiological functions.
Liposomal lactoferrin induced significant increase of the interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α) producibility in healthy volunteers
Authors: Ishikado Atsushi , Imanaka Hiromichi , Kotani Mayumi , Fujita Akihito , Mitsuishi Yoko , Kanemitsu Tomoyuki , Tamura Yoshiko , Makino Taketoshi
Published: December 2008

Interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α) producibility has been widely accepted as one of the important markers to evaluate the immune status [1,2]. In this study, preliminary clinical tests were carried out to confirm the immunomodulatory activity of liposomal lactoferrin including IFN‐α producibility and NK activity. In a primary open trial, the liposomal lactoferrin was administered to five healthy males for one week and various immunological indices were evaluated. Furthermore, ten healthy males were administered 319 mg per day of liposomal or non‐liposomal lactoferrin for four weeks, and immune status was monitored at 0, 1 and 4 weeks after the intake as well as three weeks after stopping it. In this double‐blinded comparative study, the IFN‐α producibility was significantly increased only in the liposomal lactoferrin group during administration and decreased 3 weeks after stopping it, while the IFN‐α producibility was unchanged in the non‐liposomal lactoferrin group. Although the biological mechanism of IFN‐α producibility enforced by liposomal lactoferrin has not been wholly understood, it is suggested to be a novel active constituent having preventive and therapeutic effects on inflammatory diseases, cancer and infectious diseases such as chronic hepatitis C.
Food factors and gastrointestinal function: A critical interface
Authors: Schneeman Barbara
Published: December 2008

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is an interface between the external environment and the body and functions to extract nutrients from foods as well as handle the various non‐nutrient compounds found in foods. Thus factors in foods that affect health and disease may mediate their effects either through a direct effect on the GIT or indirectly by the pattern of absorption and subsequent metabolism through the GIT. To explore this relationship one must consider both the physiological responses of the GIT induced by factors in foods as well as the implications of GIT adaptation for metabolism. Metabolic adaptations to dietary factors such as cholesterol levels, glucose and insulin response, and immune function appear to be modulated by the manner in which food factors are metabolized in the GIT. New research is needed to understand the inter‐relationship between food factors that stimulate GIT response and the subsequent influence on metabolism that influences risk factors for disease and health promotion.
Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in human lymphocytes as assessed by comet assay
Authors: Park Yoo Kyoung , Lee Hyang Burm , Jeon Eun‐Jae , Jung Hack Sung , Kang Myung‐Hee
Published: December 2008

The Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is claimed to have beneficial properties for human health, such as anti‐bacterial, anti‐allergic, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The antioxidant effects of the mushroom may be partly explained by protection of cell components against free radicals. We evaluated the effect of aqueous Chaga mushroom extracts for their potential for protecting against oxidative damage to DNA in human lymphocytes. Cells were pretreated with various concentrations (10, 50, 100 and 500 μ/mL) of the extract for 1 h at 37°C. Cells were then treated with 100 μM of H2O2 for 5∼min as an oxidative stress. Evaluation of oxidative damage was performed using single‐cell gel electrophoresis for DNA fragmentation (Comet assay). Using image analysis, the degree of DNA damage was evaluated as the DNA tail moment. Cells pretreated with Chaga extract showed over 40% reduction in DNA fragmentation compared with the positive control (100 μmol H2O2 treatment). Thus, Chaga mushroom treatment affords cellular protection against endogenous DNA damage produced by H2O2.
Citrus nobiletin inhibits azoxymethane‐induced large bowel carcinogenesis in rats
Authors: Suzuki Rikako , Kohno Hiroyuki , Murakami Akira , Koshimizu Koichi , Ohigashi Hajime , Yano Masamichi , Tokuda Harukuni , Nishino Hoyoku , Tanaka Takuji
Published: December 2008

The inhibitory effects of dietary feeding of citrus nobiletin on azoxymethane (AOM)‐induced rat colon carcinogenesis using a long‐term bioassay were investigated. Five‐week old male F344 rats were initiated with two weekly subcutaneous injections of AOM (20 mg/kg bw) to induce colonic tumors. They were also given the diets containing 0.01% or 0.05% nobiletin for 34 weeks, starting one week after the last dosing of AOM. At the end of the study, the incidence of colonic adenocarcinoma were 67% in the AOM alone group, 55% in the AOM→0.01% nobiletin group, 35% (p < 0.05) in the AOM→0.05% nobiletin group. Also, nobiletin feeding reduced the cell‐proliferation activity, increased the apoptotic index, and decreased the prostaglandin E2 content in colonic adenocarcinoma and/or colonic mucosa. These findings might suggest that citrus nobiletin has chemopreventive ability against AOM‐induced rat colon carcinogenesis.
Effects of major dietary antioxidants on inflammatory markers of RAW 264.7 macrophages
Authors: Jung Won‐Jin , Sung Mi‐Kyung
Published: December 2008

Oxidative stresses are involoved in the process of chronic inflammatory diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the anti‐inflammatory activity of major dietary antioxidants. Murine RAW264.7 macrophages (4 × 106cells) were incubated in DMEM containing 10% FBS supplemented with 5 to 20 μM of α‐tocopherol, β‐carotene or quercetin for 24 hrs, and then treated with LPS for 16hrs. The medium was collected to measure TNF‐α, IL‐6, PGE2and nitrite. Expressions of cyclooxygenase‐2(COX‐2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) were determined using the harvested cells. Results indicate that TNF‐α and IL‐6 accumulations were significantly reduced by 5 to 20 μM quercetin treatment, and 20 μM of α‐tocopherol treatment. Nitrite release was significantly reduced by 5 μM quercetin treatment. However, PGE2accumulation was not affected by any of the antioxidants used. Expressions of COX‐2 and iNOS were effectively reduced by 5 μM quercetin treatment. These findings indicate that dietary antioxidants possess significant anti‐inflammatory activities, and quercetin is the most potent antioxidant.
Regulation of the human taurine transporter by TNF‐α and an anti‐inflammatory function of taurine in human intestinal Caco‐2− cells
Authors: Mochizuki Tetsunosuke , Satsu Hideo , Nakano Tomoko , Shimizu Makoto
Published: December 2008

We investigated whether or not the inflammatory cytokines affect the activity of taurine transporter (TAUT) in human intestinal Caco‐2− cells. Among the cytokines, tumor necrosis factor α(TNF‐α) markedly augmented the TAUT activity. A kinetic analysis of the TAUT activity in TNF‐α‐treated Caco‐2 cells suggests that this up‐regulation was associated with both an increase in the amount of TAUT and an increase in its affinity. Considering these results, it seems that intracellular taurine plays a role in the intestinal epithelial cells under such an inflammatory condition as that caused by an excessive amount of TNF‐α secreted by macrophages. To verify this hypothesis, we examined the effect of taurine on inflamed intestinal cells by using a co‐culture system of Caco‐2 cells with human macrophage‐like THP‐1 cells. The result shows that taurine significantly repressed the damage to Caco‐2 cells caused by TNF‐α secreted by THP‐1 cells. Thus, taurine may be a useful substance against intestinal inflammation.
Inhibition of phorbol ester‐induced COX‐2 expression by some edible African plants
Authors: Na Hye‐Kyung , Mossanda Kensese S. , Lee Ji‐Yoon , Surh Young‐Joon
Published: December 2008

Cancer bush (CB, Sutherlandia frutescens), Devil's claw (DEV, Harpagophytum procumbens), Rooibos tea (RT, Aspalathus linearis), and Bambara groundnut (BB, Vignea subterranean) have been used to treat some malignancies and inflammatory disorders in Africa. However, biochemical basis for chemopreventive effects of these medicinal plants remains unclear. An abnormally elevated expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) has been implicated in pathogenesis and progression of carcinogenesis. In the present study, we found that the methanol extracts of CB, DEV, RT, and BB inhibited, to a different extent, 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA)‐induced COX‐2 expression in human breast epithelial (MCF10A) cells and in mouse skin in vivo. To determine the molecular mechanism of COX‐2 inhibition by the above medicinal plants, we examined their effects on activation of NF‐κB which is one of the major transcription factors responsible for regulating COX‐2 expression. Methanol extracts of both CB and BB inhibited the DNA binding of NF‐κB activated by TPA in MCF10A cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Based on above findings, CB and BB are likely to inhibit TPA‐induced COX‐2 expression through suppression of DNA binding of NF‐κB, which may contribute to the chemopreventive or chemoprotective activity of these African plants.
Oral administration of food antigen induces T cell mediated intestinal inflammation: A model using TCR‐transgenic mice
Authors: Kikuchi Akira , Nakajima‐Adachi Haruyo , Ebihara Ayumi , Takahashi Yoshimasa , Hosono Akira , Itoh Kikuji , Hachimura Satoshi , Kaminogawa Shuichi
Published: December 2008

To investigate the mechanisms inducing food‐sensitive intestinal inflammation, we focused on the OVA23–3 mouse, a transgenic mouse strain expressing a T cell receptor that recognizes ovalbumin (OVA). Mice administered an egg‐white (EW) diet containing OVA showed a trend of loose feces and significant weight loss. Histology of the jejunum showed severe inflammation with villous atrophy. Thus, we studied the role of T cells and intestinal microflora in the development of the inflammation. Severe villous disruption was observed in sections of the jejunum from OVA23–3 mice and RAG‐2 gene‐deficient OVA23–3 mice fed with EW‐diet. Further, a larger number of T cells was found in the lamina propria of the jejunum of EW‐diet fed OVA23–3 mice, RAG‐2 gene‐deficient mice and germfree OVA23–3 mice compared with those of control‐diet fed mice. However, severe inflammation was not detected in the jejunum of germfree OVA23–3 mice. CD4+ T cells from the MLN of EW‐diet fed OVA23–3 mice showed a Th2 cytokine secretion profile. These observations have thus clarified that antigen‐specific Th2 cells play important roles in the development of intestinal inflammation. Although the presence of indigenous bacteria was not essential for the inflammation, T cells could mediate a more severe inflammatory response in their presence.
The ability of konjac‐glucomannan to suppress spontaneously occurring dermatitis in NC/Nga mice depends upon the particle size
Authors: Onishi Nobukazu , Kawamoto Seiji , Nishimura Masaru , Nakano Toshiaki , Aki Tsunehiro , Shigeta Seiko , Shimizu Hisao , Hashimoto Kunihiko , Ono Kazuhisa
Published: December 2008

Konjac glucomannan (GM) is a well‐known dietary fiber with various beneficial functions, which the higher viscous GM is proposed to have the stronger potencies. Application of highly viscous GM to various food industries is limited for the sake of long elapsed time required to solubilize the GM. Thus, the exploration into any physiological function of low‐viscous GM remained undone for a long time. Male 4‐week‐old NC/Nga mice, a model of atopic dermatitis (AD), were fed for 8 weeks on diets containing 5% each of a high‐viscous GM powder, ordinary konjac or highly purified GM, and a low‐viscous GM powder, pulverized GM or re‐granulated fine GM. Striking suppression to the aggravation of dermatitis and the increases in scratching behaviors and IgE levels was significantly observed only in mice fed on the pulverized GM diet, but not in mice fed on the other GM diets or a control diet. We concluded that the low‐viscous GM possesses a novel immunoregulatory function and the intensity of the function depends upon the particle size rather than the viscosity.
Hepatoprotective effect of sesquiterpenes in turmeric
Authors: Miyakoshi Masazumi , Yamaguchi Yasunaga , Takagaki Ryoji , Mizutani Kenji , Kambara Toshimitsu , Ikeda Takao , Zaman M. S. , Kakihara Hiroki , Takenaka Asako , Igarashi Kiharu
Published: December 2008

Hepatoprotective effect of turmeric together with its sesquiterpenes and curcuminoids fractions were examined on D‐galactosamine induced liver injury in rats. All the diets individually contained the turmeric extract, the curcuminoids fraction, and the sesquiterpenes fraction suppressed the increase of LDH, ALT, and AST levels caused by D‐GalN treatment. Since few anti‐oxidative activities are expected in the sesquiterpenes fraction, it is presumed that hepatoprotective mechanism of sesquiterpenes in turmeric is different from that of curuminoids.
Suppressive activity of a fermented grain food product on dextran sulfate sodium‐induced experimental colitis in mice
Authors: Kwon Ki Han , Murakami Akira , Tanaka Takuji , Ohigashi Hajime
Published: December 2008

Oxidative stress has been shown to play pivotal roles in the onset of inflammatory bowel disease. We evaluated the effects of a dietary anti‐oxidant, Antioxidant Biofactor (AOB®), a processed grain food, on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice. Female ICR mice were fed a diet containing 0.1% or 1% AOB for 2 weeks, during which they were given 5% DSS in drinking water for the latter 1 week to induce colitis. A diet containing 1% AOB, but not that with 0.1% AOB, attenuated DSS‐induced body weight loss and colon shortening (each, P < 0.05), and dramatically improved colitis histologic scores. In addition, DSS‐induced increases in colonic mucosal IL‐1β, but not TNF‐α, protein levels were significantly abrogated in 1% AOB‐fed mice (P < 0.05). Further, 1% dietary AOB abolished the expression of IL‐1β mRNA levels in colonic mucosa (P < 0.01). Our results suggest that AOB is effective for the prevention of DSS‐induced colitis in mice.
Antioxidative roles of sesamin, a functional lignan in sesame seed, and it's effect on lipid‐ and alcohol‐metabolism in the liver: A DNA microarray study
Authors: Kiso Yoshinobu
Published: December 2008

Sesamin was orally administered to rats, and blood, bile and urine were collected periodically. Over 40% of the dose of sesamin was detected in bile as glucuronides of 2‐(3, 4‐methylenedioxyphenyl)‐6‐(3, 4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐cis‐dioxabicyclo[3.3.0] octane and 2‐(3, 4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐6‐(3, 4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐cis‐dioxabicyclo[3.3.0] octane by 24∼hr after administration. Antioxidant activities of these metabolites were compared and catechol metabolites showed strong radical scavenging activities against not only superoxide anion radical but also hydroxyl radical. It was suggested that sesamin was absorbed by the route of portal vein and metabolized to mono‐ or di‐catechol metabolite by drug metabolizing enzymes in the liver cells. Both metabolites exhibited antioxidant activity in the liver and were finally conjugated with glucuronic acid and to excrete in bile. Sesamin can be classified as a pro‐antioxidant.

The profiles of gene expression of the liver in rats given sesamin or vehicle were compared. The gene expression levels of the late stage enzymes of β‐oxidation including trifunctional enzyme, acyl‐CoA oxidase, bifunctional enzyme and 3‐ketoacyl‐CoA thiolase were significantly increased by sesamin. On the other hand, the transcription of the genes encoding the enzymes for fatty acid synthesis was decreased. Moreover, in sesamin rats, the gene expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase was increased about 3‐fold, whereas alcohol dehydrogenase, liver catalase and CYP2E1 were not changed. These results suggested that sesamin ingestion regulated the transcription levels of hepatic metabolizing enzymes for lipids and alcohol.
Characterization of VDAC1 as a plasma membrane NADH‐oxidoreductase
Authors: Baker Mark A. , Ly Jennifer D. , Lawen Alfons
Published: December 2008

We have recently demonstrated that voltage dependent anion selective channel 1 (porin, isoform 1) can function as a transplasma membrane NADH:ferricyanide‐reductase. However, both the specific redox characteristics and the mechanism of electron transport in this enzyme presently remain unclear. Here we demonstrate that the redox capability of porin 1 is specific for ferricyanide as this same enzyme cannot reduce DCIP or cytochrome c in vitro. Furthermore, NADH‐dependent ferricyanide reduction associated with VDAC1 is not sensitive to the anion channel inhibitors DIDS and dextran sulfate. However, this activity can be inhibited by thiol chelators, suggesting that at least one of the two cysteine groups present in VDAC1 are critical for electron transfer. We propose a model on how electron transport may occur in VDAC1.
Oxidative stress is the master operator of drug and chemically‐induced programmed and unprogrammed cell death: Implications of natural antioxidantsin vivo
Authors: Ray S. D. , Lam T. S. , Rotollo J. A. , Phadke S. , Patel C. , Dontabhaktuni A. , Mohammad S. , Lee H. , Strika S. , Dobrogowska A. , Bruculeri C. , Chou A. , Patel S. , Patel R. , Manolas T. , Stohs S.
Published: December 2008

ROS, RNS, BRIs and ROS‐RNS hybrids are produced during drug or chemical metabolismin vivo. These reactive species are instrumental to the culmination of cellular oxidative stress (OS). OS, once turned on, does not spare any vital intracellular macromolecule, such as glutathione, DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes, lipids and ATP. Since concentration gradients of such components are very delicately balanced for normal cellular functioning, a gross perturbation leads to cell injury and cell death. Abundant evidence now suggests that intracellular antioxidants keep OS in check and maintain homeostasis. Our laboratory has focused on the role of OS in orchestrating various forms of cell death during drug and chemically‐induced target organ toxicity and their counteraction by various natural or synthetic antioxidants inin vivomodels. Despite complexity of thein vivomodels, results show that metabolism of xenobiotics are invariably associated with different degrees of OS and natural antioxidants such as grape seed extract, bitter melon extract (Momordica charantia) and N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) which were very effective in counteracting organ toxicities by minimizing events linked to OS (lipid peroxidation and total glutathione), and CAD‐mediated DNA fragmentation. Phytoextract exposure rescued cells from toxic assaults, protected genomic integrity, and minimized apoptotic, necrotic and apocrotic (oncotic necrosis) cell deaths. Pre‐exposure mode was more effective than post‐exposure route. Overall scenario suggests that OS may have been the prime modulator of death and/or survival programs, whereas, antioxidants may have imparted a dual role in either erasing death signals or reviving survival signals, and a combination of antioxidants may be more beneficial than a single entity to influence a number of intracellular events operating simultaneously to neutralize chaotic toxicological consequences.
Effect of the walnut polyphenol fraction on oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes mice
Authors: Fukuda Toshiyuki , Ito Hideyuki , Yoshida Takashi
Published: December 2008

We examined the in vivo antioxidative effect of a polyphenol‐rich walnut extract on oxidative stress in mice with type 2 diabetes. C57BL/KsJ‐db/db mice were used as an accelerated oxidative animal model. The oral administration of the walnut polyphenol fraction at 200∼mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks caused a significant decrease in the level of urinary 8‐hydroxy‐2'‐deoxyguanosin, which is an in vivo marker of oxidative stress. These results imply that walnut polyphenols have both in vitro and in vivo antioxidant effects.
Preventive effects of dietary boysenberry anthocyanins on galactosamine‐induced liver injury in rats
Authors: Igarashi Kiharu , Sugimoto Etsuko , Hatakeyama Asako , Molyneux John , Kubomura Kiyoko
Published: December 2008

The preventive effects of the major boysenberry anthocyanins (BoAnt) on liver injury, were determined in rats with liver injury induced by galactosamine (GalN). Increases in plasma AST and ALT activities, which were all induced by the injection of GalN, were relieved by the ingestion of BoAnt, suggesting that BoAnt is a food component available to prevent liver injury.
Physiological effects and active ingredients of Viburnum dilatatum Thunb fruits on oxidative stress
Authors: Iwai Kunihisa , Kim Mi‐Yeon , Onodera Akio , Matsue Hajime
Published: December 2008

The fruit of Viburnum dilatatum Thunb, called gamazumi in Japan, showed the strong antioxidant activities, and its preventive effects on oxidative stress and active ingredients were investigated. Male rats were subjected to water immersion restraint stress for 6 hours, after ingestion of the gamazumi crude extract (GCE) for 2 weeks. The formation of gastric ulcer was reduced, and the lipid peroxidation in plasma and organs also lowered in rats ingested GCE. In the streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats given GCE for 10 weeks, inhibition of lipid peroxidation in plasma, erythrocytes and organs was observed, and the increase of plasma glucose level also lowered. On the other hand, two cyanidin glycosides, two chlorogenic acids and quercetin were identified, and especially cyanidin 3‐sambubioside (Cy 3‐sam) showed the strong radical scavenging activity. It is suggested that Cy 3‐sam is a key compound contributing to the physiological effects of V. dilatatum fruit.
Antioxidative activity of sulfur‐containing compounds in Allium species for human LDL oxidation in vitro
Authors: Nishimura Hiroyuki , Higuchi Ohki , Tateshita Koutaro
Published: December 2008

Sulfur‐containing compounds contributing to health promotion in Allium species are produced via enzymic and thermochemical reactions. Sulfur‐containing amino acids and volatile organosulfur compounds were prepared for an antioxidative assay. The inhibitory activity of S‐alk(en)yl‐L‐cysteines and their sulfoxides, volatile alk(en)yl disulfides and trisulfides, and vinyldithiins in Allium species against lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) formation in human low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) was examined. It was elucidated that the alk(en)yl substituents (methyl, propyl, and allyl) and the number of sulfur atoms in the compounds were important for the antioxidative activity. 3,4‐Dihydro‐3‐vinyl‐1,2‐dithiin, which is produced by a thermochemical reaction of allyl 2‐propenethiosulfinate, exhibited the highest antioxidative activity of human LDL among sulfur‐containing compounds.
The antioxidative activity of traditional Japanese herbs
Authors: Xiufen Wang , Hiramatsu Naoko , Matsubara Mai
Published: December 2008

The objective of this research was to examine the radical scavenging activity of traditional Japanese herbs. Samples used in the experiments were gennoshoko (Geranium nepalense var. thunbergii), yomogi (Artemisia vulgaris var.indica), senburi (Swertia japonica), iwa‐tobacco (Conandron ramondioides), sarunokoshikake (Elfvingia applanata), kanzo (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) and matatabi (Actinidia polygama). The water‐soluble components of the herbs were extracted in boiling water, and the volatile oil was extracted by a distillation apparatus or steeping in some organic solvents such as petroleum ether and ethyl ether. The radical scavenging activity was determined by the decrease of free radicals of DPPH detected by both colorimetric assay and HPLC method at 517∼nm. The extracts of gennoshoko, yomogi and iwa‐tobacco showed remarkable radical scavenging activity. The volatile oil of yomogi obtained by distillation or steeping in organic solvents had especially strong antioxidative activity.
Antioxidant activity and protective effect on DNA strand scission of Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis)
Authors: Lee Eun‐Jung , Jang Hae‐Dong
Published: December 2008

Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis) was extracted by refluxing with water and 75% ethanol as a solvent. Antioxidant activity and protective effect on DNA strand scission were investigated by using different antioxidant assay systems and DNA strand nicking assay, respectively. 75% Ethanol extract has higher content of total soluble phenolics and flavonoid than water extract. Antioxidant activities such as hydrogen donating capacity and scavenging activity of hydrogen peroxide were higher in 75% ethanol extract than in water extract except the rate constant with hydroxyl radical. Peroxyl radical induced DNA strand scission was prevented by both 75% ethanol and water extract and hydroxyl radical induced DNA strand scission was not. This result indicates that total soluble phenolics, specially flavonoid, of Rooibos tea are responsible for several kinds of antioxidant activities and preventive activity on peroxyl radical induced DNA strand scission.
Antioxidant properties of gingerol related compounds from ginger
Authors: Masuda Yuki , Kikuzaki Hiroe , Hisamoto Masashi , Nakatani Nobuji
Published: December 2008

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) shows an antioxidant activity, and we have been engaging to determine the structures of more than 50 antioxidants isolated from the rhizomes of ginger. The isolated antioxidants are divided into two groups; gingerol related compounds and diarylheptanoids. In this study, structure‐activity relationship of gingerol related compounds was evaluated. Gingerol related compounds substituted with an alkyl group bearing 10‐, 12‐ or 14‐carbon chain length were isolated from the dichloromethane extract of rhizomes using repeated chromatographic techniques. The antioxidant activities of these compounds were evaluated by the following measurements; 1) 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, 2) inhibitory effect on oxidation of methyl linoleate under aeration and heating by the Oil Stability Index (OSI) method, and 3) inhibitory effect on oxidation of liposome induced by 2,2'‐azobis(2‐amidinopropane)dihydrochloride (AAPH). These results suggested that the substituents on the alkyl chain might contribute to both radical scavenging effect and inhibitory effect of autoxidation of oils, while inhibitory effects against the AAPH‐induced peroxidation of liposome was somewhat influenced by the alkyl chain length; the antioxidant activity might be due to not only radical scavenging activity of antioxidants but also their affinity of the antioxidants to the substrates.
Antioxidative compounds isolated from the rhizomes of smaller galanga (Alpinia officinarum Hance)
Authors: Ly Tram Ngoc , Shimoyamada Makoto , Kato Koji , Yamauchi Ryo
Published: December 2008

Antioxidative compounds were isolated from the methanol extract of fresh rhizome of smaller galanga (Alpinia officinarum Hance). Seven phenylpropanoids (1–7) were obtained and their structures were elucidated by MS and NMR analyses. They comprised the two known compounds, (E)‐p‐coumaryl alcohol γ‐O‐methyl ether (1) and (E)‐p‐coumaryl alcohol (6); and the five novel compounds, stereoisomers of (4E)‐1,5‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐phenyl)‐1‐methoxy‐2‐(methoxymethyl)‐4‐pentene (2a and 2b), stereoisomers of (4E)‐1,5‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1‐ethoxy‐2‐(methoxymethyl)‐4‐pentene (3a and 3b), (4E)‐1,5‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐phenyl)‐1‐[(2E)‐3‐(4‐acetoxyphenyl)‐2‐propenoxy]‐2‐(methoxymethyl)‐4‐pentene (4), (4E)‐1,5‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐(methoxymethyl)‐4‐penten‐1‐ol (5), and (4E)‐1,5‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐(hydroxymethyl)‐4‐penten‐1‐ol (7). Compounds 1–7 were detected for the first time as constituents of galanga rhizomes and exhibited antioxidative activities against the autoxidation of methyl linoleate in bulk phase.
Antioxidative activity of animal and vegetable dietary fibers
Authors: Suzuki Nobutaka , Fujimura Ayako , Nagai Takeshi , Mizumoto Iwao , Itami Toshiaki , Hatate Hideo , Nozawa Takashi , Kato Norihisa , Nomoto Tateo , Yoda Binkoh
Published: December 2008

Some dietary fibers originated from insects such as silkworm (Sericin) and others along with constituents of several representative seaweeds such as wakame Undaria pinnatifida; hijiki Hizikia fusifome; and kombu Laminaria japonica, were found to have fairly large reaction rates determined by quenching experiments of emission spectra in the near‐infrared region λ:_{max}1270 nm for singlet oxygen 1O2, Cypridina luminescence method for superoxide, and peroxide value (POV) for autoxidation. The determined reaction rates are between 103 ‐ 105 (g/L){‐1} s{‐1} for the insect and the plant dietary fibers; the larger ones are as large as that of ascorbic acid, 1.93 × 104 (g/L){‐1} s{‐1} for singlet oxygen. Most of these seaweed constituents also showed antioxidative activity against autoxidation and superoxide as well as their immunological enhancing activity. These results suggest a possibility that dietary fibers that are supposed to prevent the large‐intestine cancer by their physical properties may prevent the cancer, at least in parts, by their chemical, antioxidative activity.
Abies nephrolepis leaf phenolics prevent the inhibition of gap junction intercellular communication by hydrogen peroxide in rat liver epithelial cells
Authors: Lee Sang Jun , Lee Ki Won , Lee Hyong Joo
Published: December 2008

Recent reports suggest that carcinogenicity of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is implicated in inhibition of gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), which is a cellular event associated with the tumor promotion. The present study investigated the effect of phenolics (KF) from leaves of Abies nephrolepis (Khingan fir) on inhibition of GJIC by H2O2 in WB‐F344 rat liver epithelial cells. The phenolics were extracted from fresh leaves by using 80% aqueous methanol, and were analyzed mainly as catechin derivatives including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and catechin itself. KF and EGCG protected the inhibition of GJIC by H2O2, whereas butylated hydroxytoluene, a commercial antioxidant, had no effect. Our results indicate that KF exhibits potential chemopreventive effects against carcinogenesis, which may be attributable to phenolics such as EGCG.
Tea polyphenol epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate associates with plasma membrane lipid rafts: Lipid rafts mediate anti‐allergic action of the catechin
Authors: Tachibana Hirofumi , Fujimura Yoshinori , Yamada Koji
Published: December 2008

High‐affinity IgE receptor FcϵRI is key molecule in the IgE‐mediated allergic reactions. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) has a suppressive effect of the expression of the FcϵRI. We show here that EGCG highly associates with plasma membrane microdomains, lipid rafts. The disruption of these lipid rafts caused a reduction of the amount of raft‐associated EGCG and the FcϵRI ‐suppressive effect of EGCG. These results suggest that the interaction between EGCG and the lipid rafts is important for EGCG's ability to downregulate FcϵRI expression.
Detection and determination of glyceraldehyde‐derived advanced glycation end product
Authors: Usui Teruyuki , Shimohira Kazuhito , Watanabe Hirohito , Hayase Fumitaka
Published: December 2008

Protein is modified by carbonyl compound in the Maillard reaction, and the irreversible structure is formed as the advanced glycation end product (AGE). We identified GLAP (glyceraldehyde‐derived pyridinium compound) as an AGE formed from glyceraldehyde and lysine residue of protein. In the present study, we investigated detection and determination of GLAP from glycated protein using fluorescence HPLC method. Albumin (BSA) and carbonyls (glyceraldehyde, glycolaldehyde, methylglyoxal, glyoxal, three pentoses or three hexoses) were dissolved in phosphate buffed solution (pH 7.4), and incubated at 37°C for a week. GLAP was formed only in the glyceraldehyde‐modified BSA. It is suggested that GLAP was specific AGE derived from glyceraldehyde. In addition, GLAP depressed the intracellular glutathione level and induced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HL‐60 cells. GLAP caused the oxidative stress. Therefore, GLAP will be a biomarker in the AGE related disease such as diabetic complications or chronic renal failure.
Characterization of carnosine uptake and its physiological function in human intestinal epithelial Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Son Dong Ok , Satsu Hideo , Kiso Yoshinobu , Shimizu Makoto
Published: December 2008

Carnosine (β‐Ala‐L‐His) is known to have the physiological functions of an antioxidant. Although dietary carnosine is thought to be absorbed across intestinal epithelial cells, the mechanism for this absorption is not yet well understood and its function in the intestinal tract is also obscure. The intestinal transport of carnosine was characterized in the present study by using human intestinal Caco‐2 cells, and its physiological function in these cells was further examined. The carnosine uptake was proton‐dependent, being activated by lowering the apical pH value. Its uptake was significantly inhibited by other dipeptides, whereas it was not inhibited by other amino acids. These characteristics of the carnosine uptake strongly suggest its transport into the cells via peptide transporter 1 (PepT1). Since carnosine has antioxidative activity, we studied its effect on the H2O2‐induced secretion of inflammatory cytokines in Caco‐2 cells. The H2O2‐induced increase in IL‐8 secretion was inhibited by a pretreatment with carnosine for 3 h, this inhibition being presented in a dose‐dependent manner. These results suggest that carnosine had a protective effect against oxidative stress in intestinal epithelial cells.
Cortisol and IGF‐1 synergistically up‐regulate taurine transport by the rat skeletal muscle cell line, L6
Authors: Park Sung‐Hee , Lee Haemi , Park Taesun
Published: December 2008

This study was undertaken to evaluate effects of exercise‐induced hormones, cortisol, IGF‐1, and β‐endorphin, on the regulation of taurine transport activity in rat skeletal myoblasts, L6 cells. Challenge of L6 cells with cortisol (100 nM) for 24 hrs resulted in a 165% increase in taurine transport activity, 220% increase in Vmax of the taurine transporter, and 55% increase in taurine transporter/ β‐actin mRNA level compared with untreated control cells. Neither IGF‐1 (1∼100 nM) nor β‐endorphin (1∼20 nM), added in the incubation medium separately for 24 hrs, affected taurine uptake by L6 cells. However, when cells were co‐treated with IGF‐1 (10 nM) plus cortisol (100∼nM), taurine transport activity (37% increase, p < 0.05), Vmax of the transporter (54%, p < 0.05), and taurine transporter/ β‐actin mRNA level were further increased compared to the value for cells treated with cortisol alone. These results suggest that taurine transport by skeletal muscle cells appear to be synergistically up‐regulated during a prolonged exercise via elevated levels of cortisol and IGF‐1 in muscle.
Absorption and metabolism of delphinidin 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside in rats
Authors: Ichiyanagi Takashi , Rahman M. Mamunur , Kashiwada Yoshiki , Ikeshiro Yasumasa , Shida Yasuo , Hatano Yoshihiko , Matsumoto Hitoshi , Hirayama Masao , Konishi Tetsuya
Published: December 2008

Anthocyanins, kind of flavonoids (FL) found in plants and vegetables, are known to have varieties of physiological functions.

In the present study, we examined absorption and metabolism of delphinidin 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside (Dp3G) in rats. Dp3G appeared in the plasma at 15 min after oral administration as an intact glucosidic form. The plasma level also showed another peak at 60 min. One metabolite peak was detected in the plasma and the structure was assigned as 4'‐O‐methyl Dp3G (MDp3G) by NMR and MS. The metabolite was also identified in several tissues as a major metabolite especially in the liver. No 3′‐O‐methyl Dp3G was detected in any tissues, therefore, 4′‐OH methylation is the main path of Dp3G metabolism in rats. This finding generalized the metabolic formation of FL having pyrogallol B ring because it has been reported that FL having catechol structure produced 3′‐O‐methyl‐derivatives, but FL having pyrogallol structure produced 4′‐O‐methyl‐derivatives.