bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Age on the Gut and Brain: Insights into the Gut‐Brain Axis
Authors: Hoffman Jared , Bakshi Vikas , Parikh Ishita , Guo Janet , Armstrong Rachel , Green Stefan , Lin Ai‐Ling
Published: November 2023

Age is the top risk factor for the development of numerous diseases including neurological disorders such as dementia. Indeed, this may be due to the increased inflammation exhibited in the aging process. Interestingly, an altered gut microbiota has also been linked to increasing one's risk for the development of inflammation and neurological disorders. We hypothesize that with age, this inflammatory response originates in the gut and reaches the brain, disrupting the gut‐brain axis, and increasing one's risk of disease. Our objective was to examine the effects of the aging process on the gut‐brain axis in Young and Old mice and how this can alter brain function. Specifically, our multi‐faceted approach included magnetic resonance imaging, P‐gp transport via brain capillary isolation, mTOR staining, biochemical assyays, behavior testing, brain metabolomics assessment, and 16S sequencing of the gut microbiome. Our preliminary results found variations in the diversity and taxa of the gut microbiome and an increased inflammatory response in the brain with age. Collectively, we conclude the aging process may indeed alter the gut microbiome and increase inflammation in the brain but more research needs to be conducted to further elucidate the mechanisms of the gut‐brain axis.

Support or Funding Information

The study was supported by NIA K01AG040164 to Dr. Ai‐Ling Lin
Age‐Related Decrease of Neurotransmitters in Senescence‐Accelerated‐8 Mice
Authors: Chan Ching‐Hung , Li Lin‐Ai , Kuo Ching‐Yi , Chen Wen‐Lin , Lian Yu‐Zhi , Ku Hui‐Hsuan , Huang Hui‐Yu
Published: November 2023

Aging is usually associated with declines of physiological functions. Senescence‐accelerated‐8 mice (SAMP‐8) were used in assessing the age‐related declines in cognitive and activity in previous studies. However, the changes of brain neurotransmitters in the SAMP‐8 mice due to the aging process was still unclear. In the present study, we compared the neurotransmitters in 16 and 43 weeks years old SAMP‐8 mice. Twenty SAMP‐8 mice were divided into two groups: Pre‐Aging group (n=10) and Aging group (n=10). After sacrifice, brain and blood were collected to analyze the level of neurotransmitters in hippocampus and striatum and serum level of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The results of serum BDNF were significantly reduced in the aging group compared to the pre‐aging group. Importantly, the concentration of the neurotransmitters in hippocampus and striatum were significantly lower in an aging group than which in the pre‐aging group. Since hippocampus and striatum controlled the behavior of mammals, our results suggest that age‐associated decrease of neurotransmitters in hippocampus and striatum may be the reason of behavioral changes in aging SAMP‐8 mice.
Potential Skin Anti‐Aging Effects of Korean Medicinal Plant Extracts
Authors: Averilla Janice Nullan , Kim Jeung Eun , Ju Sung Hee , Oh Jisun , Kim Jong‐Sang
Published: November 2023

The development of a variety of human diseases is related to aging. During the aging process, a normal homeostatic condition of biological systems including free radicals, antioxidants and biomolecules, becomes disrupted, promoting the accumulation of oxidants that cause deterioration of vital cellular functions. Thus, alternative methods in delaying the signs of aging, such as functional food supplementation, have emerged in the past few decades. In previous research studies, antioxidants have been reported to stimulate the expression of the genes that regulate essential antioxidant signaling pathways. As part of the global continuous effort to inhibit the rate of skin aging, we screened various Korean traditional medicinal plant extracts by examining the effect on the cellular defense key transcription factors, particularly nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF‐E2)‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1). Interestingly, two of the plant extracts screened, Inula japonica Thunberg (dogyeong) and Carpeslum abrotanoides Linne (hakseul), resulted in enhanced antioxidant gene expression in mouse hepatoma Hepa1c1c7 and human keratinocyte HaCaT cells as measured by Western blot and were found to provide strong beneficial effect against skin aging. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of the plant extracts on transcriptional activity of Nrf2 using a cell line stably transfected with antioxidant response element (ARE) and reporter luciferase gene. We also demonstrated that the non‐toxic administration of dogyeong and hakseul had notable skin anti‐aging effect in animal model, thereby warranting further clinical efficacy study.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by BK21 Plus Program
Decreased consumption of specific macronutrients promotes metabolic health and longevity
Authors: Cummings Nicole Elise , Radcliff Abigail , Brodbeck Allison , Konon Elizabeth , Wu Jessica , Sherman Dawn , Williams Elizabeth , Apelo Sebastian Arriola , Barnes Macy , Hacker Timothy , Lamming Dudley
Published: November 2023

Calorie restriction (CR) is the nutritional ‘gold standard’ in lifespan extension, improving metabolic health in many metabolic organisms. This intervention is extremely difficult to sustain, especially in a population struggling with both obesity and readily available food sources. While CR limits the intake of all macronutrients, it's unclear what macronutrient drives these benefits. An attractive alternative to restricting all calories is to limit only certain macronutrients, changing the ratio of macronutrient intake. A low protein, high carbohydrate diet can increase lifespan and improve metabolic health in both rodents and humans. However, the specific amino acid composition of protein intake may have more of an impact on metabolism and aging than researchers and physicians previously thought.

Our lab has previously determined that a diet restricted in branched chain amino acids (BCAAs; leucine, isoleucine, and valine) improves glycemic control and metabolic health in young, wild‐type mice. In addition, we have determined that reduced consumption of BCAAs does not induce the production of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a hormone produced in fasting and protein restriciton, but does result in specific inhibition of the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1). We have since expanded our research to explore the effects of BCAA restriction in aged and metabolically disadvantaged mice.

We find that Low BCAA diets rapidly reverse diet induced obesity, improving glucoregulatory control and inducing weight loss. When BCAAs or total protein are restricted in a progeroid mouse, we promote longevity and rescue some aspects of cardiac function. BCAA restriction improves weight and glycemic control of aged, wild‐type mice. Our results suggest that a reduction in dietary BCAAs promotes metabolic health and longevity, and may represent a highly translatable option to treat age‐related disease.

Support or Funding Information

The Lamming lab is supported by a K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award to D.W.L. from the National Institute of Health/National Institute on Aging (AG041765), a New Investigator Program Award from the Wisconsin Partnership Program, and an Innovator Award from the Progeria Research Foundation, as well as startup funds from the UW‐Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and the UW‐Madison Department of Medicine. N.E.C. is supported in part by a training grant from the UW Institute on Aging (NIA T32 AG000213). This work was supported using facilities and resources from the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital. This work does not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Government.
The Relation of Dietary Pattern and Telomere Length among Adults in South China
Authors: Xue Hongmei , Tian Guo , Li Danting , Zhang Jieyi , Cheng Guo
Published: November 2023

Objective

We aimed to examine whether diet pattern is associated with telomere length (TL), an potential indicator of biological cellular aging, and to explore whether such associations were modified by anthropometric or inflammatory indicators.

Methods

A total of 553 Chinese adults (51% women) aged 20–70 years were included from an ongoing prospective study conducted in Southwest China since 2013. From a validated 66‐item food frequency questionnaire, principal components analysis identified four main dietary patterns: the ‘vegetable‐rich’ pattern characterized by higher intake of fruits, whole grains, various vegetable groups, dairy products, nuts, eggs and tea; the ‘macho’ pattern correlated with several kinds of animal foods and alcohols; the ‘traditional’ pattern included rice, red meat and pickled vegetables and the ‘high energy‐density’ pattern typified by greater consumption of beverages, wheat flour and deep‐fried foods. Body height and weight were measured to calculate BMI (kg/m2) and percent body fat (%BF). TL in peripheral blood leukocytes was determined by Southern blot based in‐gel hybridization technique and C‐reactive protein (CRP) was also detected. Multivariable linear generalized regression models were performed to examine the association between different dietary patterns and TL.

Results

Higher adherence to the ‘vegetable‐rich’ pattern was related to longer TL in women but not in men, adjusted for age, personal monthly income, smoking status, physical activity and energy intake (men: p=0.5; women: p=0.01). Among women, for every one point increased in ‘vegetable‐rich’ pattern score, the TL was 170.3 bp shorter, corresponding to approximately a difference of 4 y of aging. The strength of this association was almost identical with further adjustments for %BF (β=170.2, p=0.01) or other obesity indicators. However, this association was attenuated slightly with additional adjustment for CRP (β=153.5, p=0.02).

Conclusion

The ‘vegetable‐rich’ pattern is positively and independently related to longer TL among Chinese women, warranting further investigation in large prospective studies.

Support or Funding Information

All phases of this study were supported by research grant from the National Nature Science Foundation of China (No. 81472976)
The Effects of Soy Protein Supplementation on Lipid Profiles and Bone Biomarkers
Authors: George Kelli S. , Johnson Sarah A. , Pourafshar Shirin , Navaei Negin , Arjmandi Bahram H.
Published: November 2023

The attention to the role of functional foods in preventing and reversing disease processes has grown in recent years, as has the identification of specific functional foods with multiple health benefits. In the United States, cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death, while osteoporosis is the most common skeletal disorder as well as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in both women and men. In osteoporotic individuals, the rate of bone resorption often exceeds the rate of bone formation, leading to net bone loss. Hyperlipidemia as a measure of cardiovascular health and the net bone loss in regards to osteoporosis have both been shown to be influenced by diet. Soy proteins have been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels, likely due to both the upregulation of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor activity as well as the estrogen‐like properties of its isoflavones. Soybean isoflavones also have beneficial effects on bone health due to their estrogen‐like properties, albeit not all studies have supported this. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of soy protein on lipid profiles and bone metabolism in adults. To this end, 90 men and women were randomly assigned to consume 40 g of protein per day in the form of either soy or casein for three months. Soy consumption reduced bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase activity, a marker of bone formation and/or turnover, significantly (P<0.03); however, soy also tended to decrease (P<0.08) tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b activity, a marker of bone resorption. Soy also significantly increased serum insulin‐like growth factor‐I concentrations (P<0.0001), which is known to stimulate osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Soy protein did not significantly lower serum levels of total‐cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, or lipoprotein(a), or increase high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. The results of this study demonstrate that soy protein isolate given as a daily supplement has positive effects on some indices of bone metabolism in both men and women, while having little effect on total‐, HDL‐, and LDL‐cholesterol concentrations in normolipidemic and mildly hypercholesterolemic men and women. Future mechanistic studies may be warranted to understand the role of soy protein in bone health.
Adaptation of Galloyl Derivatives Metabolism and Excretion After 42 Days of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Consumption
Authors: Mertens‐Talcott Susanne U , Kim Hyemee , Talcott Stephen T , Barnes Ryan
Published: November 2023

The absorption, metabolism, and excretion of gallic acid, galloyl glycosides, and gallotannins from mango fruit was assessed in lean and obese subjects who consumed mango continuously for 42 days and compared against a control cohort who consumed mango only on Days 1 and 42. Healthy volunteers (n=21; BMI 22–34) consumed 400 g of mango pulp daily for 42 days. Significant (p<0.05) increases were observed in their 24 h urinary excretion of 4‐O‐methylgallic acid‐3‐O‐sulfate, methylpyrogallol‐O‐sulfate, pyrogallol‐O‐sulfate, and catechol‐O‐sulfate. However, no significant differences were observed in the plasma concentrations (AUC0–8h) for individual metabolites. In the control cohort (n=11; BMI<25) who consumed mango only on Days 1 and 42, no increases were found in the 24 h urinary excretion or plasma comparing concentrations for any of the detected galloyl metabolites on days 1 and 42. Increased metabolism and excretion following daily polyphenol were hypothesized to be due to adaptive increase in the metabolism of gallic acid, galloyl glycosides, and gallotannins by the subjects' gut microbiota. The increased generation of bioactive microbial metabolites may have significant implications for health‐benefits derived from the consumption of gallotannin‐rich fruits, teas and spices.

Support or Funding Information

Partial funding for this research was provided by: National Mango Board
The Combined Application of the Caco‐2 Cell Bioassay Coupled with in vivo (Gallus gallus) Feeding Trial Represents an Effective Approach to Predicting Fe Bioavailability in Humans
Authors: Tako Elad , Bar Haim , Glahn Raymond P
Published: November 2023

Research methods that predict Fe bioavailability for humans can be extremely useful in evaluating food fortification strategies, developing Fe‐biofortified enhanced staple food crops and assessing the Fe bioavailability of meal plans that include such crops. In this presentation, research from four recent poultry (Gallus gallus) feeding trials coupled with in vitro analyses of Fe‐biofortified crops will be compared to the parallel human efficacy studies which used the same varieties and harvests of the Fe‐biofortified crops. Similar to the human studies, these trials were aimed to assess the potential effects of regular consumption of these enhanced staple crops on maintenance or improvement of iron status. The results demonstrate a strong agreement between the in vitro/in vivo screening approach and the parallel human studies. These observations therefore indicate that the in vitro/Caco‐2 cell and Gallus gallus models can be integral tools to develop varieties of staple food crops and predict their effect on iron status in humans. The cost‐effectiveness of this approach also means that it can be used to monitor the nutritional stability of the Fe‐biofortified crop once a variety has released and integrated into the food system. These screening tools therefore represent a significant advancement to the field for crop development and can be applied to ensure the sustainability of the biofortification approach.
Fabrication of Lysozyme/Artemisia Sphaerocephala Krasch Seed Polysaccharide Nanoparticles for the Encapsulation and Protection of Curcumin
Authors: Ren Daoyuan , Qi Jianrui , Xie Anqi , Yang Xingbin , Xiao Hang
Published: November 2023

A facile approach to fabricate nanoparticles under mild conditions via self‐assembly of lysozyme (Ly) and purified Artemisia sphaerocephala Krash seed polysaccharide (ASKP‐3) was developed for the first time to encapsulate and protect curcumin and to enhance its bioavailability. The relationship between Ly and ASKP‐3, particle size and morphology were studied by zeta potential measurement, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicated that ASKP‐3/Ly nanogels were spherical with diameters of 216.6±5.7 nm and narrow particle size distribution, as well as negative surface charge. Additionally, the particle size and morphology of the nanogels hardly changed after the encapsulation of curcumin. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC) of curcumin for the ASKP‐3/Ly nanogels prepared with ASKP3/Ly ratio 1:1 were 79.52±4.14% and 15.47±2.85%, respectively. Curcumin‐loaded nanogels greatly increased curcumin stability in phosphate buffer at physiological pH where curcumin is extremely unstable. The cell viability assay indicated that encapsulated curcumin exhibited higher inhibitory effects on cancer cells than non‐encapsulated curcumin. Meanwhile, curcumin‐loaded nanogels could be effectively endocytosed by HepG2 cells, resulting in enhanced pro‐apoptotic effects comparing to non‐encapsulated curcumin. Furthermore, the curcumin‐loaded nanogels significantly increased bioavailability of curcumin in mice evidenced by increased plasma levels of curcumin after oral administration. Overall, our results demonstrated that nanosized proteins/polysaccharides complex could be used to solubilize and protect labile amphiphilic bioactive dietary compounds such as curcumin, and to enhance their bioavailability in vivo, which provided important evidence supporting potential application of the proteins/polysaccharides complex in functional foods.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (C31671823), and the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Funded Projects of Shaanxi Normal University, China (X2014YB09)
Avenanthramides and their microbial metabolites as the urinary exposure markers for whole grain oat intake: a kinetic study in humans
Authors: Sang Shengmin , Wang Pei , Yerke Aaron
Published: November 2023

Oats are commonly consumed as whole grains (WGs) and known to provide healthy nutrients to humans. In epidemiological and clinical studies, there are no biomarkers have been identified to reflect WG oat intake. Oats contain a unique type of compounds, avenanthramides (AVAs), which are a group of substituted N‐cinnamoylanthranilic acids. In this study, we investigated whether AVAs and their metabolites as the exposure markers for WG oat intake. Our results on the metabolism of AVAs identified the reduction of the double bond in the cinnamic acid unit and the cleavage of the amide bond as the major metabolic pathways of AVAs, and the double bond reduced metabolites (DH‐AVAs) as the microbial‐derived metabolites of AVAs. We also investigated the urinary kinetic curves of AVAs and their microbial‐derived metabolites in humans after taking oat bran as their breakfast. Our kinetic data indicated that the DH‐AVAs had longer half‐life and the combination of AVAs and DH‐AVAs can cover longer time periods for correctly and objectively monitoring WG oats intake. Furthermore, not all participants can produce DH‐AVAs. There are DH‐AVAs producers and non‐producers, which may lead to future personalized nutrition based on the profile of an individual's gut microbiota.
The Gaps between Nutrition Support Guidelines and the Applications of Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Bayrak Tugba , Kiehl Heidi , LaSalle Colette
Published: November 2023

Objective/Aim/Hypothesis

The literature suggests that gaps exist between nutrition support guidelines and the actual process of ordering/prescription, compounding and administration. The purpose is to describe the gaps, to summarize the reasons, and to present possible solutions to improve parenteral nutrition (PN) safety.

Methods/Design/Approach

This is a pilot study and provides the rationale for the data collection project. Ten articles were reviewed (n=10). Several key words, such as quality, parenteral nutrition, energy intake and quality assurance, were used in searching in the database of ASN, ASPEN, CIHANL, and PubMed. Study outcomes were provided according to the current categories of PN safety: Ordering/prescription, compounding and administration.

Results and/or Implications

30% of the articles indicate inadequate PN administration, 70% of articles display noncompliance with nutritional support guidelines, 20% of articles inform inappropriate PN. In this literature review, the gaps mainly occur in ordering/prescription (n=7) and administration (n=8).

Conclusion(s)

Drug shortages, lack of Nutrition Support Team in the facility, insufficient communication between medical care team members, and insufficient education among medical care team were listed as source of the conditions. Possible suggestions were included to establish the Nutrition Support Team, to increase communication between healthcare team members, and periodical training sessions.

Support or Funding Information

None
Role of gut microbiota‐derived polyphenolic acid in attenuation of protein misfolding in neurodegeneration
Authors: Pasinetti Giulio Maria , Ho Lap Maria , Faith Jeremiah Maria , Ono Kenjiro Maria
Published: November 2023

Background

There is increasing evidence supporting a protective role of intestinal microbiota against diverse medical conditions, including neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) by modulation, in part, of metabolic and immune responses. For example, gut bacteria metabolize soluble dietary fiber into biologically available short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that may help modulate immune responses in the periphery and in the brain. Gut bacteria are also known for their role in converting dietary polyphenols into biologically available phenolic acids with anti‐oxidant activities. However, there is little information on the potential role of SCFAs and phenolic acids in Alzheimer's disease. The present study is designed to investigate effects of these SCFAs and phenolic acids in beta‐amyloid (Aβ)‐mediated pathologic processes that play key roles in AD pathogenesis.

Methods

In in vitro studies using multiple complementary assays, we investigated individual SCFA and phenolic acid that are generated by GI microbial metabolism of dietary fiber and polyphenols for their dose‐responsive effects in interfering with the assembly of Aβ peptides into neurotoxic soluble Aβ aggregates. We also investigated in vitro effects of isolated human GI bacteria in converting dietary fibers and select polyphenol products into biologically available SCFAs and phenolic acids that are effective in inhibiting Aβ aggregation.

Results

We found several phenolic acids that potently inhibited Aβ aggregation. We also found significant differences among GI microbiota from different healthy human donors in converting dietary polyphenols into these bioactive phenolic acids and in further metabolic degradation of these phenolic acids. Ongoing studies are investigating effects of individual SCFAs in Aβ aggregation and the efficacy of GI microbiota from different human donors in the generation (and degradation) of these SCFAs.

Conclusions

Intestinal microbiota may help protect AD, in part, by supporting the generation of phenolic acids and SCFAs that interferes with the formation of toxic soluble Aβ aggregates. Presence of interpersonal differences in the human gut microbiota may lead to interpersonal variation to benefit from the protective effects of dietary fiber and polyphenols in AD. Outcomes provide critical information for developing probiotics to help prevent and/or treat AD.
Change in plasma phospholipid fatty acids over 13 years and determinants of change: EPIC‐Norfolk Study
Authors: Zheng Ju‐Sheng , Imamura Fumiaki , Sharp Stephen J , Ye Zheng , Koulman Albert , Griffin Jules , Luben Robert , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Wareham Nicholas J , Forouhi Nita G
Published: November 2023

We aimed to investigate the changes in 27 individual plasma phospholipid fatty acids and fatty acid groups over time, and examine potential determinants of these changes. In the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC)‐Norfolk study, plasma phospholipid fatty acids (%mol) were profiled in 722 participants at three time‐points (1993–1997, 1998–2000, 2004–2011) over approximately 13 years. Linear mixed‐effects models were used to estimate 1) the annual change in individual plasma fatty acids and fatty acid groups, adjusting for potential confounders and 2) associations of change in dietary or lifestyle factors with change in 8 pre‐specified plasma fatty acid groups, with mutual adjustment for dietary/lifestyle factors and other confounders. The pre‐specified fatty acid groups were odd‐chain saturated fatty acids (SFA, C15:0+C17:0), even‐chain SFAs (C14:0+C16:0+C18:0), very‐long‐chain SFAs (C20:0+C22:0+C23:0+C24:0), marine n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, C20:5n3+C22:5n3+C22:6n3), plant n‐3 PUFA (C18:3n3), n‐6 PUFAs, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and trans fatty acids. There were significant annual decreases in levels of odd‐chain SFAs (−0.63%, 95%CI: −0.73%, −0.52%), even‐chain SFAs (−0.05%, 95%CI: −0.06%, −0.03%), n‐6 PUFAs (−0.25%, 95%CI: −0.29%, −0.20%) and trans fatty acids (−7.84%, 95%CI: −8.07%, −7.61%), significant annual increases in marine n‐3 PUFAs (1.28%, 95%CI: 1.11%, 1.44%) and MUFAs (0.45%, 95%CI: 0.37%, 0.54%), and no significant changes in very‐long‐chain SFAs or plant n‐3 PUFA. Change in each plasma fatty acid group was associated with change in intake of various food groups; for example, 100g/day increase of change in fatty fish intake was associated with a 5.26% (95% CI: 1.26%, 9.42%) annual increase in plasma marine n‐3 PUFAs. Change in BMI or physical activity was not associated with change in any fatty acid group. The annual changes observed cannot be explained by diet alone and therefore suggest that aging processes have a discernible effect on fatty acids of the plasma phospholipid fraction. In conclusion, most individual plasma fatty acids and fatty acid groups changed over time. These changes were partially explained by changes in aspects of diet.

Support or Funding Information

Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit MC_UU_12015/1 and MC_UU_12015/5; Medical Research Council Human Nutrition Research MC_UP_A090_1006; Cambridge Lipidomics Biomarker Research Initiative G0800783; Cambridge Initiative‐Nutrition (RG71466, SJAH/004), Marie Skłodowska‐Curie Fellowships (701708, RG82205, SJAI/051),
Phenolic compounds as functional ingredients and nutraceuticals: the case of Juice PLUS+
Authors: Del Rio Daniele , Bresciani Letizia
Published: November 2023

The protective effects of diets rich in fruits and vegetables are not only due to fibre, vitamins and minerals, but also to a diversity of plant secondary metabolites, in particular phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These compounds are now widely used as food ingredients and supplements, with the final aim of making the health benefits associated with their intake more widely and easily available. The bioavailability of these compounds after dietary intake has been a topic of increasing research in recent years, and could be one of the crucial issues when trying to develop commercial products containing polyphenols. Moreover, it is now well recognised that following ingestion, phenolic compounds undergo extensive metabolism during their passage through the gastrointestinal tract and, with very few exceptions, only metabolites and catabolites of the parent compounds enter the circulatory system. Metabolism occurs initially in the lumen of the small intestine with cleavage of sugar moieties after which the released aglycone undergoes glucuronidation, sulfation and/or methylation [1]. After entry of these metabolites into the circulatory system, phase II metabolism may also occur in the liver and other organs [1]. However, a large proportion of ingested polyphenols are not absorbed in the small intestine [1] and so pass to the large intestine, where substantial structural modifications are mediated by the local colonic microbiota [1]. The resultant low‐molecular‐weight compounds, may be absorbed and circulate in the body prior to excretion in urine in amounts that greatly exceed those of metabolites absorbed in the small intestine, whose concentration in plasma rarely exceeds the nmol/l levels [1]. Here we evaluated the composition and the absorption kinetics of a set commercially available encapsulated nutraceuticals, namely Juice PLUS+ Vineyard (a berry blend, JBB), Juice PLUS+ Fruit Blend (JFB) and Juice PLUS+ Vegetable Blend (JVB), kindly supplied by Juice PLUS+ company. The analysis of the three supplements by uHPLC–MSn allowed to tentatively identify 119 (poly)phenolic compounds. The main microbial/human metabolites were then tracked in a short pharmacokinetic study involving 20 healthy volunteers, demonstrating that a diversity of compounds circulate in vivo after Juice PLUS+ capsules intake, becoming potentially responsible of the health related effects which have been previously reported in a plethora of intervention studies [examples 2–4].

Support or Funding Information

Part of this work has been supported by “Green Beat – Institute of Nutrient Research and Sport Nutrition”
Strawberries improve pain symptoms in obese participants with radiographic evidence of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Schell Jace , Christiansen Danielle , Barrett James , Lohrman Elizabeth , Betts Nancy , Zhao Yan D , James Judith , Scofield Hal , Basu Arpita
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA), a common form of arthritis is mainly characterized by inflammation, joint pain and cartilage degeneration but without any effective pharmacological cure. Obese are at risk of OA. We have previously reported the effects of dietary berries in improving cardio‐metabolic outcomes in obese adults. To our knowledge no previous reports have examined the effects of berries on OA. Thus, in the present study we examined the hypothesis that strawberries will improve metabolic profiles and symptoms of pain in obese participants with radiographic evidence of knee OA. In a randomized placebo‐controlled crossover trial obese participants [n=17 (Females 13, Males: 4); age: 56±7y; BMI: 39±6 (mean±SD)] were randomized to one of the two groups: strawberry (50g freeze‐dried) or placebo, each for 12 weeks. Blood draws, anthropometric measurements and surveys for pain scores [visual analog scale of pain (VAS) and Measure of Intermittent and Constant Osteoarthritis Pain (ICOAP)] and quality of life indices [Health assessment questionnaire disability index (HAQ‐DI)] were administered at screen, 12, 14 (washout) and 26 weeks of the study. We found significant decreases in pain scores (VAS) in the strawberry vs. placebo group at 12 weeks (0.71±0.31 and 0.90±0.47, respectively, p<0.05). While no differences were noted in biochemical profiles, especially, glucose, HbA1c, total‐ and LDL cholesterol and C‐reactive protein, HDL‐cholesterol was significantly lower in the strawberry vs. placebo group at 12 weeks (50±16 and 55±6.5mg/dL, respectively, p<0.05). Thus, strawberry bioactive compounds may help alleviate pain symptoms in knee OA. These findings deserve further investigation in larger trials.

Support or Funding Information

California Strawberry Commission, NIH grant U54GM104938 (OSCTR)
Effect of resveratrol in methylation promoter of FNDC5 gene in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue
Authors: Heredia‐Lugo Victor , Garcia‐Tobilla Pilar , Rodriguez Mauricio , Palacios Berenice
Published: November 2023

Irisin has been associated with the beneficial effects of exercise training. The study of epigenetics, it has been shown that several responses in gene expression are controlled by DNA methylation. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of resveratrol consumption in FNDC5 promoter methylation in skeletal muscle and adiposse tisue. The experimental animals were randomly assigned to 2 experimental diets; 1. Chow diet (CON) and 2. Resveratrol at 0.1% (RSV). Subsequently, white adipose tissue and skeletal muscle samples were obtained for genomic DNA extraction, cloning of the promoter region and sequencing of the library was performed. Our results, showed that resveratrol was able to increase the expression of FNDC5 in skeletal muscle in mice. No effect was observed in methylation patterns in either tissues. According to the results obtained in this study, resveratrol does not regulate the FNDC5 gene by DNA methylation.
The Effect of a High‐Fat Diet and Green Tea Extract on Glucose Metabolism and Inflammation in Regulator of G protein Signaling 10 Knockout Mice
Authors: Park Hea Jin , Olsen Erik , Fang Xi , Dagher Josephine Bou , Chung Jaegwon , Kang Se Joong , Lee Jae‐Kyung
Published: November 2023

Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) family proteins are GTPase‐accelerating proteins that negatively regulate G protein‐coupled receptors signaling. Among RGS family proteins, RGS10 is one of the smallest proteins and abundant in the brain and immune organs. Previously, we have demonstrated its roles in myeloid cells as a negative regulator of inflammation in the context of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinsons's disease. Interestingly, RGS10 knockout mice display impaired glucose tolerance concurrently with proinflammatory phenotype, suggesting the involvement of RGS10 in the development of metabolic diseases by regulating inflammation. Moreover, epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate, an anti‐diabetic and anti‐inflammatory polyphenol found in green tea has shown to increase the expression of RGS10 in human cancer cells. However, underlying mechanisms by which RGS10 relates to the development of diabetes or obesity has never been studied. Our data shows that the expression of RGS10 protein was strongly induced in lipid filled mature adipocytes differentiated from 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes in vitro. However, green tea extract (GTE) treatment (50 μM) for 24hours had no effect on the expression of RGS10 protein in both preadipocytes and lipid filled mature adipocytes. We are currently conducting an animal study investigating the impact of high‐fat diet and dietary GTE on metabolic profilein RGS10 knockout mice. C57BL/6 wild type mice and RGS10 knockout mice fed alow‐fat diet (LF), high‐fat diet (HF) or high‐fat diet containing GTE at 2%(HF+GTE) for 8 wks. At week 5, the current stage of the study, the body weight gains were not significantly different between WT and KO mice fed LF (p=0.2081) as well as mice fed HF+GTE (p=0.7656). However, KO mice fed HF gained 1.6 times more weight than WT mice fed the same diet (p=0.0003). GTE inhibits the body weight gain in both WT and KO mice otherwise increased by HF. At the end of experimental period, glucose tolerance test and insulin sensitivity test will be conducted and blood and adipose tissue will be collected to measure markers of glucose metabolism and inflammation. The results suggest that RGS10 may play an important role to regulate high fat diet induced weight gain. Completion of current study will address the impact of high‐fat diet and GTE on glucose metabolism and inflammation upon the expression of RGS10. This finding would provide evidence to better understand the regulation of diabetes and inflammation.

Support or Funding Information

Support provided by Georgia Experimental Agricultural Station, HATCH #GEO00795 and College of Family and Consumer Sciences (HJP) and College of Veterinary Medicine (JKL) at UGA.
Effects of Dietary Pomegranate Extract and Inulin in Mice Fed an Obesogenic Diet
Authors: Yang Jieping , Zhang Song , Henning Susanne M , Lee Rupo , Hsu Mark , Grojean Emma , Pisegna Rita , Ly Austin , Heber David , Li Zhaoping
Published: November 2023

Background

It has been demonstrated in animal studies that both polyphenol rich pomegranate extract (PomX) and the oligosaccharide inulin, ameliorate metabolic changes induced by a high‐fat diet, but little is known about the specific mechanisms.

Objective

This study evaluated the effect of PomX (0.25%) and inulin (10%) alone or in combination on cholesterol and lipid metabolism in mice fed a high fat/high sucrose diet.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were fed high‐fat/high‐sucrose [HF/HS (32% energy from fat, 25% energy from sucrose)] diets supplemented with PomX (0.25%) and inulin (10%) alone or in combination for 4 weeks. At the end of intervention, serum and hepatic cholesterol, triglyceride levels, hepatic gene expression of key regulators of cholesterol and lipid metabolism as well as fecal cholesterol and bile acid excretion were determined.

Results

Dietary supplementation of the HF/HS diet with PomX and inulin decreased hepatic and serum total cholesterol. PomX increased gene expression of Cyp7a1 and Cyp7b1, key regulators of bile acid synthesis pathways, and significantly increased total bile acids and neutral sterol fecal elimination. Inulin decreased gene expression of key regulators of cholesterol de novo synthesis Srebf2 and Hmgcr. PomX in combination with inulin reduced liver weight and lipid weight significantly compared to the HF/HS control group. PomX showed a trend to decrease liver triglyceride (TG) level, while inulin or PomX in combination with inulin had no effect on both serum and liver TG levels. In the liver, inulin inhibited expression of genes related to fatty acid synthesis (Fas, Acaca) and to fatty acid β‐oxidation (Cpt1a and Cpt2), while PomX increased expression of genes involved in fatty acid β‐oxidation (Cpt2, Acadl and Acadvl).

Conclusion

Dietary supplementation of the HF/HS diet with PomX and inulin decreased hepatic and serum total cholesterol by different mechanisms leading to a significant enhancement of the cholesterol‐lowering effect.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by departmental funds of the Center for Human Nutrition, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
Hepatoprotective Effect of Centella asiatica Extract (ECa233) in Rotenone‐induced Liver Injury Rats
Authors: Tansawat Rossarin , Intararuchikul Thidarat , Rodsiri Ratchanee , Meksawan Kulwara , Warisnoicharoen Warangkana
Published: November 2023

Liveris a vital organ responsible for many essential functions related to digestion, metabolism and detoxification. Excessive toxins can damage the liver cells, leading to liver diseases. Hepatoprotective activities from plant extracts have been investigated by a number of researches worldwide. Though some previous studies have revealed the liver protective effects of Centella asiatica, the component of this herb were varied among the studies. Thus, the standardized extract of Centella asiatica (ECa233) is established for quality control of the major compounds. ECa233 contains > 80% triterpenoids, and the ratio of madecassoside to asiaticoside is 3:2. The aim of this study was to investigate hepatoprotective effects of ECa233 against rotenone in rotenone‐induced liver injury rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (N = 18); Control, Rotenone (positive control) and ECa. Ratsin ECa treated group received 10 mg/kg of ECa233 (p.o.) for 20 days, followed by rotenone (2.5 mg/kg) i.p. injection to induce toxicity before sacrificed. Blood samples were collected for hepatic enzyme tests. Liver tissues were used for antioxidanttests including thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) assays. The results showed that rotenone treated group had elevated AST and ALT enzymes. TBARS levels of the ECa group were significantly lowered than the positive control (P< 0.05). For the antioxidant capacity tests, ECa group had higher SOD levels as compared to the rotenone group (P < 0.05). CAT activity of rotenone group was statistically significant decreased compared to control (P < 0.05) while CAT levels of the ECa were not different from the control group, but significant higher than rotenone treated group (P < 0.01). No significant difference in GPx levels was found among the three treatments. In summary, it can be pointedout that ECa233 has hepatoprotective activities against rotenone toxicity by decreasingoxidative stress biomarker (TBARS) and increasing antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT in the liver. This new findings might establish novel evidence base to create value‐added of Centella asiatica as a dietary supplements or medicines for liver disorders in the future.
Addition of a Snack of Lupinus mutabilis Sweet to the Conventional Treatment with Metformin in the Control of Type‐2 Diabetes
Authors: Baldeon Manuel E. , Fornasini Marco , Hidalgo Andrea , Masabanda Luis , Castro José , Tufiño Miriam , Villacrés Elena
Published: November 2023

Like other developing countries Ecuador is experiencing an epidemiological nutrition transition characterized by under‐ and over‐nutrition. An indication of this phenomenon is the recent increment of non‐communicable chronic diseases. Currently type‐2 diabetes (T2D) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the country. It is necessary to implement novel strategies to decrease the prevalence of this pathology and its consequences in the Ecuadorian population. Studies with animal models of T2D and clinical studies with humans show that consumption of the legume lupin decrease abnormal serum levels of glucose in individuals with dysglycemia. Present study assessed the efficacy of the addition of a healthy snack based on Andean Lupinus mutabilis Sweet in the treatment of T2D. Eighty‐one diabetic patients with poor glycemic control were divided into 2 treatment groups: patients in G1 (n=44) received twice the dose of metformin (Mt) that were consuming in the previous 30 days prior to the beginning of the study and G2 (n=37) received the same dose of metformin that were consuming during the previous 30 days plus 10g of a L. mutabilis Sweet‐based snack for 6 months. Participants had a complete nutritional evaluation before and after treatment period that included a clinical evaluation, anthropometry, and laboratory analysis. The IRB of “Universidad de las Americas” approved the study. At the beginning of the study, both groups were comparable for socio‐demographic characteristics except age since patients in G2 were older. Results indicated that both groups improved their metabolic control at the end of the study period. Patients in G1 showed significant lower levels of glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and total cholesterol while patients in G2 had significant lower serum levels in HbA1c and decreased body mass index after treatment. Patients in G1 also had an improvement in the sensitivity of insulin receptor shown by decreased levels of HOMA. In conclusion, data showed that addition of a healthy Andean snack to Mt‐treatment had a positive effect in the control of glycemia in individuals with poor control of T2D. Further studies are needed to establish the ideal dose of lupin snack in the treatment of T2D.

Support or Funding Information

Universidad Tecnológica Equinoccial

Universidad de las Américas

Unidad Municipal de Salud Norte Patronato San José

Instituto Nacional Autónomo de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, INIAP
Moringa leaf powder modulate reverse cholesterol transport without changing plasma lipids in guinea
Authors: Murillo Gabriela , Almatrafi Manal , Vergara‐Jimenez Marcela , Fernandez Maria Luz
Published: November 2023

Leaves from the plant Moringa Oleifera have been found to improve insulin resistance, reduce inflammation and lower plasma lipids in several animal models. The polyphenols/flavonoids present in Moringa leaves (ML) appear to be the bioactive components responsible of these beneficial effects. In this study we hypothesized that Moringa leaves (ML) would improve lipid profile by modulating the size and number of lipoprotein subfractions (large, medium or small) and affect reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in guinea pigs. Twenty four 3‐month old male Hartley guinea pigs, were given a hypercholesterolemic diet with 0.25% cholesterol and were randomly allocated to either one of three Moringa groups (n=8/group): control (0% ML), Low Moringa (10% ML) or High Moringa (15% ML), corresponding to a daily intake of 0, 3 or 4.5 g ML/day. Animals consumed these diets for 6 weeks. Macro and micronutrients were adjusted for all diets, the only difference being the flavonoids and polyphenols present in ML. After sacrifice, blood was collected and plasma was obtained by centrifugation. Plasma was aliquoted to measure total, LDL and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and insulin. VLDL, LDL and HDL subfractions concentrations and size were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance. Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) and cholesteryl ester protein (CETP) activities, major regulators of RCT, were also measured by fluorometric methods. Unexpectedly, no changes in plasma lipids, glucose or insulin were observed among groups. However both ML groups had lower concentrations of the medium HDL, which has been postulated to be pro‐atherogenic. Values were: 0.56 μmol/L for control, 0.11 ± 0.21 μmol/L for 10% ML and 0.21 ± 0.13 μmol/L for 15% ML groups. Further LCAT activity was increased by 55% (p< 0.05) by ML intake while CETP activity was not different among groups. These results suggest a potential role of ML in modulating RCT

Support or Funding Information

Taif University, Saudi Arabia