Antioxidants

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15 pages, 834 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Foliar Putrescine Application, Ammonium Exposure, and Heat Stress on Antioxidant Compounds in Cauliflower Waste

by Jacinta Collado-González, Maria Carmen Piñero, Ginés Otálora, Josefa López-Marín and Francisco M. del Amor

Antioxidants 2021, 10(5), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10050707 - 29 Apr 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2325

Abstract

This work has been focused on the study of how we can affect the short heat stress on the bioactive compounds content. Some recent investigations have observed that management of nitrogen fertilization can alleviate short-term heat effects on plants. Additionally, the short-term heat [...] Read more.

This work has been focused on the study of how we can affect the short heat stress on the bioactive compounds content. Some recent investigations have observed that management of nitrogen fertilization can alleviate short-term heat effects on plants. Additionally, the short-term heat stress can be also ameliorated by using putrescine, a polyamine, due to its crucial role in the adaptation of plants to heat stress Therefore, different NO₃⁻/NH₄⁺ ratios and a foliar putrescine treatment have been used in order to increase tolerance to thermal stress in order to take advantage of the more frequent and intense heat waves and make this crop more sustainable. So, other objective of this work is to make the cauliflower waste more attractive for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical preparations. Thus, the effect of a thermal stress combined with a 50:50 NO₃⁻/NH₄⁺ ratio in the nutrient solution, and the foliar application of 2.5 mM putrescine increased in the content of various sugars (inositol, glucose, and fructose), total phenolic compounds and polyamines, as well as in the antioxidant activity. The greatest accumulation of these compounds was observed in young leaves. Our results show from a physiological and agronomic point of view, that the foliar application of putrescine and the 50:50 NO₃⁻/NH₄⁺ treatment managed to alleviate the negative effects of the abiotic stress suffered at high temperature, yielding plants with higher antioxidant compounds content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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14 pages, 1981 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Inflammatory Principles from the Needles of Pinus taiwanensis Hayata and In Silico Studies of Their Potential Anti-Aging Effects

by Ping-Chung Kuo, Yue-Chiun Li, Anjar M. Kusuma, Jason T. C. Tzen, Tsong-Long Hwang, Guan-Hong Ye, Mei-Lin Yang and Sheng-Yang Wang

Antioxidants 2021, 10(4), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10040598 - 13 Apr 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3658

Abstract

Pinus needle tea are very popular in Eastern countries such as Japan, Russia, Korea, and China. Pine needle tea is claimed to have significant anti-aging effects, but no clear evidence has supported this until now. In the present study, five undescribed compounds ( [...] Read more.

Pinus needle tea are very popular in Eastern countries such as Japan, Russia, Korea, and China. Pine needle tea is claimed to have significant anti-aging effects, but no clear evidence has supported this until now. In the present study, five undescribed compounds (1–5) as well as seventy-two known compounds were purified and characterized from the bioactive fraction of methanol extracts of P. taiwanensis needles. Most of the isolates were examined for their anti-inflammatory bioactivity by cellular neutrophil model and six compounds (45, 47, 48, 49, 50, and 51) exhibited a significant inhibition on superoxide anion generation and elastase release with IC₅₀ values ranging from 3.3 ± 0.9 to 8.3 ± 0.8 μM. These anti-inflammatory ingredients were subjected to docking computing to evaluate their binding affinity on the ghrelin receptor, which played an important role in regulating metabolism, with anti-aging effects. Compounds 49, 50, and 51 formed a stable complex with the ghrelin receptor via hydrogen bonds and different types of interactions. These results suggest the flavonoids are responsible for the potential anti-aging effects of pine needle tea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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10 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Consumption of a Combination of Citrus Fruit Flavonoids and Olive Leaf Polyphenols to Reduce Oxidation of Low-Density Lipoprotein in Treatment-Naïve Cardiovascular Risk Subjects: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Study

by Desirée Victoria-Montesinos, María Salud Abellán Ruiz, Antonio J. Luque Rubia, Daniel Guillén Martínez, Silvia Pérez-Piñero, Maravillas Sánchez Macarro, Ana María García-Muñoz, Fernando Cánovas García, Julián Castillo Sánchez and Francisco Javier López-Román

Antioxidants 2021, 10(4), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10040589 - 11 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3053

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess whether oral intake of a nutraceutical product (Citrolive™) could determine changes in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and other parameters of lipid metabolism and plasma atherogenic capacity. Citrolive™ is a commercial extract obtained from the combination [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to assess whether oral intake of a nutraceutical product (Citrolive™) could determine changes in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and other parameters of lipid metabolism and plasma atherogenic capacity. Citrolive™ is a commercial extract obtained from the combination of citrus fruit flavonoids and olive leaf extracts. Twenty-three untreated subjects (69.6% males, 30.4% females, mean age 41.9 ± 9.4 years) with cardiovascular risk factors and a total cholesterol level >200 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) > 130 mg/dL participated in a 3-month randomized double-blind controlled study. Participants in the intervention group (71.4% males, 28.6% females, mean age 42.7 ± 9.7 years) consumed Citrolive™ (500 mg, two capsules/day), and controls (66.7% males, 33.3% females, mean age 40.6 ± 9.4 years) received a matched placebo. At 3 months, oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) decreased significantly in the intervention group from 93.8 ± 19.1 U/L to 62.8 ± 28.7 U/L (p < 0.05), whereas the control group increased from 98.2 ± 23.5 U/L to 105.7 ± 21.9 U/L (p = 0.1). Between-group differences were also significant (p < 0.05). Similar findings in the ox-LDL/LDL-C ratio were observed. Serum paraoxonase activity (PON1) increased significantly in the intervention group from 64.5 ± 15.6 U/L to 78.7 ± 28.8 U/L (p < 0.05) but remained unchanged in controls. Consumption of Citrolive™ for 3 months in treatment-naïve subjects with moderate risk of atherosclerosis was associated with a reduction in oxidized LDL-C and LDL-oxidase/LDL-C ratio as compared to controls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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18 pages, 2776 KiB

Open AccessArticle

5-Bromoprotocatechualdehyde Combats against Palmitate Toxicity by Inhibiting Parkin Degradation and Reducing ROS-Induced Mitochondrial Damage in Pancreatic β-Cells

by Seon-Heui Cha, Chunying Zhang, Soo-Jin Heo and Hee-Sook Jun

Antioxidants 2021, 10(2), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10020264 - 09 Feb 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1986

Abstract

Pancreatic β-cell loss is critical in diabetes pathogenesis. Up to now, no effective treatment has become available for β-cell loss. A polyphenol recently isolated from Polysiphonia japonica, 5-Bromoprotocatechualdehyde (BPCA), is considered as a potential compound for the protection of β-cells. In this [...] Read more.

Pancreatic β-cell loss is critical in diabetes pathogenesis. Up to now, no effective treatment has become available for β-cell loss. A polyphenol recently isolated from Polysiphonia japonica, 5-Bromoprotocatechualdehyde (BPCA), is considered as a potential compound for the protection of β-cells. In this study, we examined palmitate (PA)-induced lipotoxicity in Ins-1 cells to test the protective effects of BPCA on insulin-secreting β-cells. Our results demonstrated that BPCA can protect β-cells from PA-induced lipotoxicity by reducing cellular damage, preventing reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, and enhancing glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). BPCA also improved mitochondrial morphology by preserving parkin protein expression. Moreover, BPCA exhibited a protective effect against PA-induced β-cell dysfunction in vivo in a zebrafish model. Our results provide strong evidence that BPCA could be a potential therapeutic agent for the management of diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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22 pages, 1953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Throughput Screening and Characterization of Phenolic Compounds in Stone Fruits Waste by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and Their Potential Antioxidant Activities

by Yili Hong, Zening Wang, Colin J. Barrow, Frank R. Dunshea and Hafiz A. R. Suleria

Antioxidants 2021, 10(2), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10020234 - 04 Feb 2021

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 4991

Abstract

Stone fruits, including peach (Prunus persica L.), nectarine (Prunus nucipersica L.), plum (Prunus domestica L.) and apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) are common commercial fruits in the market. However, a huge amount of stone fruits waste is produced throughout the [...] Read more.

Stone fruits, including peach (Prunus persica L.), nectarine (Prunus nucipersica L.), plum (Prunus domestica L.) and apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) are common commercial fruits in the market. However, a huge amount of stone fruits waste is produced throughout the food supply chain during picking, handling, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, retailing and final consumption. These stone fruits waste contain high phenolic content which are the main contributors to the antioxidant potential and associated health benefits. The antioxidant results showed that plum waste contained higher concentrations of total phenolic content (TPC) (0.94 ± 0.07 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g) and total flavonoid content (TFC) (0.34 ± 0.01 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g), while apricot waste contained a higher concentration of total tannin content (TTC) (0.19 ± 0.03 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/g) and DPPH activity (1.47 ± 0.12 mg ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE)/g). However, nectarine waste had higher antioxidant capacity in ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP) (0.98 ± 0.02 mg AAE/g) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (0.91 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g) assays, while peach waste showed higher antioxidant capacity in 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay (0.43 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g) as compared to other stone fruits waste. Qualitative and quantitative phenolic analysis of Australian grown stone fruits waste were conducted by liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray-ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) and HPLC-photodiode array detection (PDA). The LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS result indicates that 59 phenolic compounds were tentatively characterized in peach (33 compounds), nectarine (28), plum (38) and apricot (23). The HPLC-PDA indicated that p-hydroxybenzoic acid (18.64 ± 1.30 mg/g) was detected to be the most dominant phenolic acid and quercetin (19.68 ± 1.38 mg/g) was the most significant flavonoid in stone fruits waste. Hence, it could be concluded that stone fruit waste contains various phenolic compounds and have antioxidant potential. The results could support the applications of these stone fruit wastes in other food, feed, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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16 pages, 619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of the Polyphenols, Caffeine, and Antioxidant Activities of Green Tea, White Tea, and Flowers from Azorean Camellia sinensis Varieties Affected by Different Harvested and Processing Conditions

by Lisete Paiva, Clara Rego, Elisabete Lima, Massimo Marcone and José Baptista

Antioxidants 2021, 10(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10020183 - 27 Jan 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4301

Abstract

This study evaluates the polyphenol profiles as well as caffeine (dry weight basis), and antioxidant activities of green tea (GTs), white tea (WTs), and flowers (Fl) samples from Azorean Camellia sinensis varieties affected by different harvested and processing conditions. Epicatechins derivatives, determined by [...] Read more.

This study evaluates the polyphenol profiles as well as caffeine (dry weight basis), and antioxidant activities of green tea (GTs), white tea (WTs), and flowers (Fl) samples from Azorean Camellia sinensis varieties affected by different harvested and processing conditions. Epicatechins derivatives, determined by RP-HPLC/PDAD, presented higher values in GTs with respect to WTs, decreasing as follows: epigallocatechin-3-gallate > epicatechin-3-gallate ≫ epicatechin ≫ epigallocatechin, and higher values in summer and early autumn than in spring. This was also accompanied by an in consistent withering time pattern. Esterified catechins were higher in all samples (100.8–312.3 mg/g) with respect to non-esterified catechins (15.1–37.7 mg/g). Caffeine (6.2–27.7 mg/g) decreased as follows: WTs > GTs ≫ Fl, and inconsistent seasonal and withering patterns were observed among the WTs. Total phenolics (125.9–295.4 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dried extract) and total flavonoids (35.2–69.7 mg rutin equivalents/g dried extract), determined by Folin–Ciocalteu and colorimetric methodologies, were higher in GTs than in WTs and Fl. Concerning the antioxidant patterns, the free radical scavenging activity (FRSA) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) presented EC₅₀ values ranges from 3.6 to 17.3 µg/mL and 4.8 to 16.5 µg/mL, respectively, and ferrous ion-chelating (FIC) activity ranged from 47.1 to 82.8%, highlighting that FRSA was better than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Tea leaves exhibited, in general, higher activities with respect to tea Fl, and the WT sample plucked in summer and withered for 23 h showed the highest FRAP and FIC activity. In conclusion, this study shows the characteristic variation of GTs, WTs, and Fl of two tea varieties and may support crop quality improvement and promote the valorization of tea Fl. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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12 pages, 3344 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Resveratrol by Using Neutralized Eudragit E Solid Dispersion Prepared via Spray Drying

by Eun-Sol Ha, Du Hyung Choi, In-hwan Baek, Heejun Park and Min-Soo Kim

Antioxidants 2021, 10(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10010090 - 11 Jan 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2679

Abstract

In this study, we designed amorphous solid dispersions based on Eudragit E/HCl (neutralized Eudragit E using hydrochloric acid) to maximize the dissolution of trans-resveratrol. Solid-state characterization of amorphous solid dispersions of trans-resveratrol was performed using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, [...] Read more.

In this study, we designed amorphous solid dispersions based on Eudragit E/HCl (neutralized Eudragit E using hydrochloric acid) to maximize the dissolution of trans-resveratrol. Solid-state characterization of amorphous solid dispersions of trans-resveratrol was performed using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and particle size measurements. In addition, an in vitro dissolution study and an in vivo pharmacokinetic study in rats were carried out. Among the tested polymers, Eudragit E/HCl was the most effective solid dispersion for the solubilization of trans-resveratrol. Eudragit E/HCl significantly inhibited the precipitation of trans-resveratrol in a pH 1.2 dissolution medium in a dose-dependent manner. The amorphous Eudragit E/HCl solid dispersion at a trans-resveratrol/polymer ratio of 10/90 exhibited a high degree of supersaturation without trans-resveratrol precipitation for at least 48 h by the formation of Eudragit E/HCl micelles. In rats, the absolute oral bioavailability (F%) of trans-resveratrol from Eudragit E/HCl solid dispersion (10/90) was estimated to be 40%. Therefore, trans-resveratrol-loaded Eudragit E/HCl solid dispersions prepared by spray drying offer a promising formulation strategy with high oral bioavailability for developing high-quality health supplements, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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15 pages, 3315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant and Hypolipidemic Activity of Açai Fruit Makes It a Valuable Functional Food

by Anna Virginia Adriana Pirozzi, Paola Imbimbo, Antonella D’Agostino, Virginia Tirino, Rosario Finamore, Daria Maria Monti, Renata Piccoli and Chiara Schiraldi

Antioxidants 2021, 10(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10010040 - 31 Dec 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3409

Abstract

Several plant extracts are acquiring increasing value because of their antioxidant activity and hypolipidemic properties. Among them, great interest has been recently paid to açai fruit as a functional food. The aim of this study was to test the ability of açai extract [...] Read more.

Several plant extracts are acquiring increasing value because of their antioxidant activity and hypolipidemic properties. Among them, great interest has been recently paid to açai fruit as a functional food. The aim of this study was to test the ability of açai extract in reducing oxidative stress and modulating lipid metabolism in vitro using different cell models and different types of stress. In fact, lipid peroxidation as evaluated in a HepG2 model was reduced five-fold when using 0.25 µg/mL of extract, and it was further reduced (20-fold) with the concentration increase up to 2.5 µg/mL. With the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)in vitro model, all concentrations tested showed at least a two-fold reduced fat deposit. In addition, primary adipocytes challenged with TNF-α under hypoxic conditions to mimic the persistent subcutaneous fat, treated with açai extract showed an approximately 40% reduction of fat deposit. Overall, our results show that açai is able to counteract oxidative states in all the cell models analysed and to prevent the accumulation of lipid droplets. No toxic effects and high stability overtime were highlighted at the concentrations tested. Therefore, açai can be considered a suitable support in the prevention of different alterations of lipid and oxidative metabolism responsible for fat deposition and metabolic pathological conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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18 pages, 4045 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Consumption of Anthocyanin-Rich Fruit Juice: Impact on Gut Microbiota and Antioxidant Markers in Lymphocytes of Healthy Males

by Isabel Anna Maria Groh, Alessandra Riva, Dominik Braun, Heidi G. Sutherland, Owen Williams, Tamara Bakuradze, Gudrun Pahlke, Elke Richling, Larisa M. Haupt, Lyn R. Griffiths, David Berry and Doris Marko

Antioxidants 2021, 10(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10010027 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3704

Abstract

Polyphenols are considered protective against diseases associated with oxidative stress. Short-term intake of an anthocyanin-rich fruit juice resulted in significantly reduced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) strand-breaks in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and affected antioxidant markers in healthy volunteers. Consequently, effects of long-term consumption of [...] Read more.

Polyphenols are considered protective against diseases associated with oxidative stress. Short-term intake of an anthocyanin-rich fruit juice resulted in significantly reduced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) strand-breaks in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and affected antioxidant markers in healthy volunteers. Consequently, effects of long-term consumption of fruit juice are of particular interest. In focus was the impact on nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2), the Nrf2-regulated genes NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) as well as effects on the gut microbiota. In a nine-week placebo-controlled intervention trial with 57 healthy male volunteers, consumption of anthocyanin-rich juice significantly increased NQO-1 and HO-1 transcript levels in PBLs compared to a placebo beverage as measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Three Nrf2-promotor single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), analyzed by pyrosequencing, indicated an association between individual Nrf2 transcript levels and genotype. Moreover, the Nrf2 genotype appeared to correlate with the presence of specific microbial organisms identified by 16S-PCR and classified as Spirochaetaceae. Furthermore, the microbial community was significantly affected by the duration of juice consumption and intake of juice itself. Taken together, long-term consumption of anthocyanin-rich fruit juice affected Nrf2-dependent transcription in PBLs, indicating systemic effects. Individual Nrf2 genotypes may influence the antioxidant response, thus requiring consideration in future intervention studies focusing on the Nrf2 pathway. Anthocyanin-rich fruit juice had an extensive impact on the gut microbiota. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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22 pages, 9265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Screening of Phenolic Compounds in Australian Grown Berries by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and Determination of Their Antioxidant Potential

by Vigasini Subbiah, Biming Zhong, Malik A. Nawaz, Colin J. Barrow, Frank R. Dunshea and Hafiz A. R. Suleria

Antioxidants 2021, 10(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10010026 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 6541

Abstract

Berries are grown worldwide with the most consumed berries being blackberries (Rubus spp.), blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum), red raspberries (Rubus idaeus) and strawberries (Fragaria spp.). Berries are either consumed fresh, frozen, or processed into wines, juices, and jams. [...] Read more.

Berries are grown worldwide with the most consumed berries being blackberries (Rubus spp.), blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum), red raspberries (Rubus idaeus) and strawberries (Fragaria spp.). Berries are either consumed fresh, frozen, or processed into wines, juices, and jams. In recent times, researchers have focused their attention on berries due to their abundance in phenolic compounds. The current study aimed to evaluate the phenolic content and their antioxidant potential followed by characterization and quantification using LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and HPLC-PDA. Blueberries were highest in TPC (2.93 ± 0.07 mg GAE/g_f.w.) and TFC (70.31 ± 1.21 µg QE/g_f.w.), whereas the blackberries had the highest content in TTC (11.32 ± 0.13 mg CE/g_f.w.). Blueberries had the highest radical scavenging capacities for the DPPH (1.69 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g_f.w.), FRAP (367.43 ± 3.09 µg AAE/g_f.w.), TAC (1.47 ± 0.20 mg AAE/g_f.w.) and ABTS was highest in strawberries (3.67 ± 0.14 mg AAE/g_f.w.). LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS study identified a total of 65 compounds including 42 compounds in strawberries, 30 compounds in raspberries, 28 compounds in blueberries and 21 compounds in blackberries. The HPLC-PDA quantification observed phenolic acid (p-hydroxybenzoic) and flavonoid (quercetin-3-rhamnoside) higher in blueberries compared to other berries. Our study showed the presence of phenolic acids and provides information to be utilized as an ingredient in food, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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14 pages, 2647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Puffing of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Enhances its Anti-Inflammatory Effects by Upregulating Macrophage Oxidative Phosphorylation

by Hyunsung Kim, Insu Ban, Yohan Choi, Seungmin Yu, So Jung Youn, Moo-Yeol Baik, Hyungjae Lee and Wooki Kim

Antioxidants 2020, 9(10), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9100931 - 29 Sep 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4783

Abstract

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), a widely used spice, has anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits, but the detailed mechanisms of these effects are still poorly understood. Recent advances in assessment of cellular energy metabolism have revealed that macrophage mitochondrial respiration is critical [...] Read more.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), a widely used spice, has anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits, but the detailed mechanisms of these effects are still poorly understood. Recent advances in assessment of cellular energy metabolism have revealed that macrophage mitochondrial respiration is critical in inflammatory responses. In an effort to enhance the anti-inflammatory function of turmeric with a simple processing method, extract of puffed turmeric was investigated for effect on macrophage energy metabolism. The high-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed that puffing of turmeric significantly induced the degradation of curcumin to smaller active compounds including vanillic acid, vanillin and 4-vinylguaiacol. The in vitro consumption of oxygen as expressed by the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) was significantly downregulated following lipopolysaccharides stimulation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Puffed turmeric extract, but not the non-puffed control, reversed the LPS-induced decrease in OCR, resulting in downregulated transcription of the pro-inflammatory genes cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Dietary intervention in high-fat diet-induced obese mice revealed that both control and puffed turmeric have anti-obesity effects in vivo, but only puffed turmeric exhibited reciprocal downregulation of the inflammatory marker cluster of differentiation (CD)11c and upregulation of the anti-inflammatory marker CD206 in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Puffed turmeric extract further modulated the low-density lipoprotein/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio toward that of the normal diet group, indicating that puffing is a simple, advantageous processing method for turmeric as an anti-inflammatory food ingredient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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14 pages, 1265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant Activities of Six Flavonoids with Similar Structures

by Yixiu Zeng, Jiajia Song, Meimei Zhang, Hongwei Wang, Yu Zhang and Huayi Suo

Antioxidants 2020, 9(8), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9080732 - 11 Aug 2020

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 4444

Abstract

The in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of six flavonoids with similar structures, including epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), procyanidin B2 (P), quercetin (Q), taxifolin (T), and rutin (R) were compared. The structures of the six flavonoids and their scavenging activities for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl [...] Read more.

The in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of six flavonoids with similar structures, including epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), procyanidin B2 (P), quercetin (Q), taxifolin (T), and rutin (R) were compared. The structures of the six flavonoids and their scavenging activities for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS⁺) radicals were closely related. The flavonoids decreased serum contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), and increased serum total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels to different degrees in d-galactose-treated mice. The changes in mRNA expression of liver GSH-Px1, CAT, SOD1, and SOD2 by d-galactose were dissimilarly restored by the six flavonoids. Moreover, the six flavonoids differentially prevented the inflammatory response caused by oxidative stress by inhibiting interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels, and restoring IL-10 levels. These six flavonoids from two subclasses revealed the following antioxidant capability: P > EC, EGC > EC, Q > T, Q > R. Our results indicate that (1) the pyrogallol, dimerization, and C2=C3 double bonds of flavonoids enhanced antioxidant activity and (2) the C3 glycosylation of flavonoids attenuated antioxidant capacity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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Review

Jump to: Research

54 pages, 58570 KiB

Open AccessReview

Proanthocyanidins and Where to Find Them: A Meta-Analytic Approach to Investigate Their Chemistry, Biosynthesis, Distribution, and Effect on Human Health

by Giuseppe Mannino, Giorgia Chinigò, Graziella Serio, Tullio Genova, Carla Gentile, Luca Munaron and Cinzia Margherita Bertea

Antioxidants 2021, 10(8), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10081229 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4968

Abstract

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are attracting considerable interest in the nutraceutical field due to their potential health benefits. However, knowledge about the chemistry, biosynthesis, and distribution of PACs is limited. This review summarizes the main chemical characteristics and [...] Read more.

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are attracting considerable interest in the nutraceutical field due to their potential health benefits. However, knowledge about the chemistry, biosynthesis, and distribution of PACs is limited. This review summarizes the main chemical characteristics and biosynthetic pathways and the main analytical methods aimed at their identification and quantification in raw plant matrices. Furthermore, meta-analytic approaches were used to identify the main plant sources in which PACs were contained and to investigate their potential effect on human health. In particular, a cluster analysis identified PACs in 35 different plant families and 60 different plant parts normally consumed in the human diet. On the other hand, a literature search, coupled with forest plot analyses, highlighted how PACs can be actively involved in both local and systemic effects. Finally, the potential mechanisms of action through which PACs may impact human health were investigated, focusing on their systemic hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects and their local anti-inflammatory actions on the intestinal epithelium. Overall, this review may be considered a complete report in which chemical, biosynthetic, ecological, and pharmacological aspects of PACs are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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11 pages, 1153 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Antioxidant Effects of Schisandra chinensis Fruits and Their Active Constituents

by Dalia M. Kopustinskiene and Jurga Bernatoniene

Antioxidants 2021, 10(4), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10040620 - 18 Apr 2021

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 6840

Abstract

Schisandra chinensis Turcz. (Baill.) fruits, their extracts, and bioactive compounds are used in alternative medicine as adaptogens and ergogens protecting against numerous neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, and skin disorders. S. chinensis fruit extracts and their active compounds are potent antioxidants and mitoprotectors exerting [...] Read more.

Schisandra chinensis Turcz. (Baill.) fruits, their extracts, and bioactive compounds are used in alternative medicine as adaptogens and ergogens protecting against numerous neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, and skin disorders. S. chinensis fruit extracts and their active compounds are potent antioxidants and mitoprotectors exerting anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, and anti-aging effects. S. chinensis polyphenolic compounds—flavonoids, phenolic acids and the major constituents dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans are responsible for the S. chinensis antioxidant activities. This review will focus on the direct and indirect antioxidant effects of S. chinensis fruit extract and its bioactive compounds in the cells during normal and pathological conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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Impact of Polyphenolic-Food on Longevity: An Elixir of Life. An Overview

by Rosaria Meccariello and Stefania D’Angelo

Antioxidants 2021, 10(4), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10040507 - 24 Mar 2021

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 14285

Abstract

Aging and, particularly, the onset of age-related diseases are associated with tissue dysfunction and macromolecular damage, some of which can be attributed to accumulation of oxidative damage. Recently, growing interest has emerged on the beneficial effects of plant-based diets for the prevention of [...] Read more.

Aging and, particularly, the onset of age-related diseases are associated with tissue dysfunction and macromolecular damage, some of which can be attributed to accumulation of oxidative damage. Recently, growing interest has emerged on the beneficial effects of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Several studies collectively suggests that the intake of polyphenols and their major food sources may exert beneficial effects on improving insulin resistance and related diabetes risk factors, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. They are the most abundant antioxidants in the diet, and their intake has been associated with a reduced aging in humans. Polyphenolic intake has been shown to be effective at ameliorating several age-related phenotypes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired proteostasis, and cellular senescence, both in vitro and in vivo. In this paper, effects of these phytochemicals (either pure forms or polyphenolic-food) are reviewed and summarized according to affected cellular signaling pathways. Finally, the effectiveness of the anti-aging preventive action of nutritional interventions based on diets rich in polyphenolic food, such as the diets of the Blue zones, are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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31 pages, 3375 KiB

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Beetroot, A Remarkable Vegetable: Its Nitrate and Phytochemical Contents Can be Adjusted in Novel Formulations to Benefit Health and Support Cardiovascular Disease Therapies

by Diego dos S. Baião, Davi V. T. da Silva and Vania M. F. Paschoalin

Antioxidants 2020, 9(10), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9100960 - 08 Oct 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 13244

Abstract

The cardioprotective effects of dietary nitrate from beetroot in healthy and hypertensive individuals are undeniable and irrefutable. Nitrate and nitrate-derived nitrite are precursors for nitric oxide synthesis exhibiting an effect on cardiomyocytes and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion, improving endothelial function, reducing arterial stiffness and stimulating [...] Read more.

The cardioprotective effects of dietary nitrate from beetroot in healthy and hypertensive individuals are undeniable and irrefutable. Nitrate and nitrate-derived nitrite are precursors for nitric oxide synthesis exhibiting an effect on cardiomyocytes and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion, improving endothelial function, reducing arterial stiffness and stimulating smooth muscle relaxation, decreasing systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Beetroot phytochemicals like betanin, saponins, polyphenols, and organic acids can resist simulated gastrointestinal digestion, raising the hypothesis that the cardioprotective effects of beetroots result from the combination of nitrate/nitrite and bioactive compounds that limit the generation of reactive oxygen species and modulate gene expression. Nitrate and phytochemical concentrations can be adjusted in beet formulations to fulfill requirements for acute or long-term supplementations, enhancing patient adherence to beet intervention. Based on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials, beet nitrate and its bioactive phytochemicals are promising as a novel supportive therapy to ameliorate cardiovascular diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of “Polyphenolic Food” and Human Health)

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