Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Huiyu Luo, Junbin Chen, Chuhong Su, Longying Zha
Summary: Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that poses a threat to human health. Saponins, a type of phytochemicals, exhibit multiple bioactivities that are beneficial for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ignazio Restivo, Manuela Giovanna Basilicata, Ilenia Concetta Giardina, Alessandro Massaro, Giacomo Pepe, Emanuela Salviati, Camilla Pecoraro, Daniela Carbone, Stella Cascioferro, Barbara Parrino, Patrizia Diana, Carmine Ostacolo, Pietro Campiglia, Alessandro Attanzio, Antonella D'Anneo, Fanny Pojero, Mario Allegra, Luisa Tesoriere
Summary: The study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of two fractions, PMFF and PFF, separately and in combination. The combination showed stronger effects, reducing nitric oxide production and inhibiting prostaglandin E-2 release. It also suppressed over-expression of inflammatory markers and activated antioxidant pathways more effectively. The main phytochemicals in the fractions, nobiletin and xanthohumol, synergistically inhibited reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Liang Kang, Huaqing Zhang, Chongyu Jia, Renjie Zhang, Cailiang Shen
Summary: Low back pain is a major cause of disability worldwide due to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Current drug treatments for IDD primarily focus on symptoms rather than the underlying causes, but phytochemicals from plants offer potential protective effects with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties against IDD.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zahra Najafi Arab, Danial Khayatan, Seyed Mehrad Razavi, Kimia Zare, Elnaz Kheradkhah, Saeideh Momtaz, Gianna Ferretti, Tiziana Bacchetti, Thozhukat Sathyapalan, Seyed Ahmad Emami, Amir Hossein Abdolghaffari, Amirhossein Sahebkar
Summary: Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, chronic liver disease, and neurodegenerative diseases are major causes of mortality, with oxidative stress and free radicals playing important roles in their development. Antioxidants, including paraoxonases (PONs), can scavenge free radicals and mitigate their adverse effects. Modulating the expression of PON1, an important antioxidant enzyme, can have beneficial effects in various diseases by regulating inflammatory and oxidative stress signaling pathways. Dietary factors can influence PON1 expression and activity, making them important for disease prevention and treatment.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Yueh-Min Lin, Khan Farheen Badrealam, Wei-Wen Kuo, Pei Fang Lai, William Shao-Tsu Chen, Cecilia Hsuan Day, Tsung-Jung Ho, Vijaya Padma Viswanadha, Marthandam Asokan Shibu, Chih-Yang Huang
Summary: Nerolidol has been shown to ameliorate hypertension-induced cardiac injuries by targeting the TLR4/NF-kappa B signaling pathway, leading to reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, and providing effective cardioprotection. Echocardiography analysis demonstrated improved cardiac functional characteristics in hypertensive rats treated with nerolidol, highlighting its potential as a cardio-protective agent against hypertension-induced cardiac remodeling.
FOOD AND CHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Chang Shu, Shumei Han, Peng Xu, Ying Wang, Tingting Cheng, Cong Hu
Summary: Preeclampsia is associated with a significant decrease in estrogen levels, which can be normalized by exogenous estradiol administration. The decrease in estrogen levels may be attributed to changes in enzyme activities in the placental trophoblast cells. Activation of the estrogenic G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) has protective effects on the placenta. Estrogens play a role in improving placental perfusion through various mechanisms.
DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY
(2021)
Review
Neurosciences
Sajad Fakhri, Sana Piri, Seyed Zachariah Moradi, Haroon Khan
Summary: Radiation for therapeutic purposes has been shown to have positive effects in different situations, but it also carries the risk of increasing the likelihood of developing neurodegenerative diseases. High doses of radiation can have destructive effects on neurodegeneration, and current drugs have limitations. Polyphenols and other natural compounds are promising candidates for preventing and treating radiation-induced neurodegenerative disorders.
CURRENT NEUROPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Lihua Zhang, Zhongliang Li, Changcheng Xing, Ning Gao, Rui Xu
Summary: This study found that HHcy synergistically aggravated arterial damage in hypertensive rats through immune/inflammatory response, while folate demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and reversed the NF-kappa B p65/Rela/IL-6 levels induced by HHcy.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hollie Speer, Andrew J. McKune
Summary: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and studying the factors involved in its progression is crucial for healthy aging. Aging is associated with a loss of skeletal muscle quantity and quality, as well as an increase in Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species, which may accelerate the aging process.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Zeba Farooqui, Razia Sultana Mohammad, Mustafa F. Lokhandwala, Anees Ahmad Banday
Summary: In this study, mice treated with Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 and pro-oxidant BSO exhibited exacerbated hypertension, increased oxidative stress, and renal dysfunction. Compared to mice treated with only BSO, co-treatment with ML385 and BSO showed increased activity of phase II antioxidant enzyme and significant alterations in inflammatory cytokine levels.
CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL HYPERTENSION
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Salim M. A. Bastaki, Naheed Amir, Ernest Adeghate, Shreesh Ojha
Summary: The study suggests that nerolidol can improve weight loss induced by colitis, improve histology, inhibit MDA formation, restore antioxidants, and reduce MPO activity.
MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY
(2021)
Review
Andrology
Bee Ling Tan, Mohd Esa Norhaizan
Summary: Prostate cancer, the second leading cancer in men worldwide, is influenced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance mediated by androgen. While conventional therapy is effective in localized prostate cancer, dietary habits rich in antioxidants can modulate oxidative stress and prostate cancer risk. Further discussion on the interactions and mechanisms of ROS-mediated oxidative stress in prostate cancer is warranted.
WORLD JOURNAL OF MENS HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Shuo Xu, Bin Hu, Ting Dong, Bo-Yan Chen, Xiao-Jian Xiong, Lin-Juan Du, Yu-Lin Li, Yan-Lin Chen, Guo-Cai Tian, Xue-Bing Bai, Ting Liu, Lu-Jun Zhou, Wu-Chang Zhang, Yan Liu, Qin-Feng Ding, Xue-Qing Zhang, Sheng-Zhong Duan
Summary: This study proposes a controlled-release composite hydrogel approach with dual antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities for the co-treatment of periodontitis and hypertension. The hydrogel, composed of chitosan and antimicrobial peptide-modified polyethylene glycol, effectively inhibits bacterial growth and inflammation. Curcumin-loaded biodegradable nanoparticles embedded in the hydrogel provide sustained release of anti-inflammatory compounds. In a mouse model, the hydrogel produced optimal therapeutic effects on both periodontitis and hypertension. Overall, this hydrogel demonstrates superior therapeutic effects and potential clinical value in treating periodontitis and hypertension, and serves as a drug delivery platform for complex pathogenesis of periodontitis.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Vivek Rihal, Heena Khan, Amarjot Kaur, Thakur Gurjeet Singh
Summary: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Therapeutic approaches targeting vitamin D inadequacies and its downstream effects may delay the onset and severity of cerebrovascular disorders such as stroke and neurologic malformations.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN FOOD SCIENCE AND NUTRITION
(2023)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Ammara Saleem, Muhammad Furqan Akhtar
Summary: Schizophrenia is a chronic mental and behavioral disorder characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thoughts and social withdrawal. This study explores the potential of phytochemicals as new drug candidates for the treatment and management of schizophrenia. These phytochemicals can affect neurotransmission, cell signaling pathways, immune system activation, and oxidative stress.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Alba Miguens-Gomez, Marta Sierra-Cruz, Helena Segu, Raul Beltran-Debon, Esther Rodriguez-Gallego, Ximena Terra, Maria Teresa Blay, Anna Maria Perez-Vendrell, Montserrat Pinent, Anna Ardevol
Summary: This study found that acutely ingesting insect Alphitobius diaperinus protein increases food intake in rats and modifies the ex vivo enterohormone secretory profile differently than beef or almond proteins. However, these effects cannot be maintained for a longer period. The results suggest that consuming insect protein increases food intake by reducing ghrelin secretion in the small intestine.
JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Losada-Echeberria, Gustavo Naranjo, Dhafer Malouche, Amani Taamalli, Enrique Barrajon-Catalan, Vicente Micol
Summary: Interest in plant compounds has increased due to their pleiotropic effects on human health. This study investigated the influence of harvesting and drying conditions on the biological activity of olive leaf extracts, including the total polyphenolic content, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative capacity. Results showed that extracts obtained from leaves harvested in autumn had the highest phenolic composition and antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. In most cases, drying conditions using the highest temperatures resulted in optimal phenolic content and biological activities.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Ma Josefina Ruiz de Azua, Alvaro Cruz-Carrion, Begona Muguerza, Gerard Aragones, Anna Arola-Arnal, Maria Paz Romero, Francisca Isabel Bravo, Manuel Suarez
Summary: This study evaluated the metabolic consequences of consuming Ekstasis tomatoes from different geographical origins and in different seasons in Fischer 344 rats. The results showed that seasonal consumption of local tomatoes reduced cardiovascular risk and atherogenic coefficient. Additionally, the photoperiod significantly affected blood glucose, insulin levels, and the expression of Srep1-c, Fas1, and Acc1 in the liver.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Lucrecia Carrera-Quintanar, Lorena Funes, Maria Herranz-Lopez, Nestor Vicente-Salar, Raul Bonet-Garcia, Carles Blasco-Peris, Vicente Micol, Antoni Pons, Enrique Roche
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the influence of different polyphenolic antioxidant-rich beverages on five-a-side/futsal players. The results showed that oxidative stress markers significantly increased in the blood after the match, while the almond-based beverage supplemented group had significantly lower malondialdehyde levels in neutrophils compared to the control group. In conclusion, polyphenolic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory supplements could aid in optimal recovery after high-intensity futsal games.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Berta Pique, Karla Pena, Francesc Riu, Johana C. C. Acosta, Laura Torres-Royo, Barbara Malave, Pablo Araguas, Rocio Benavides, Gabriel de Febrer, Jordi Camps, Jorge Joven, Meritxell Arenas, David Parada
Summary: This study investigated the plasma RNA of COVID-19 patients treated with low-dose radiotherapy and determined its prognostic value. The results showed that detectable SARS-CoV-2 plasma viremia was significantly associated with increased mortality rates post-treatment. Additionally, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase were significant risk factors associated with COVID-19 mortality.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Eugenia Espinel, Maria Antonia Azancot, Alba Gomez, Anna Beneria, Anna Caraben, Laura Andurell, Pilar Delgado, Helena Castane, Jorge Joven, Daniel Seron
Summary: A multidisciplinary intervention involving lifestyle changes and medication adherence can effectively reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular risk markers in patients with resistant hypertension.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Gerard Baiges-Gaya, Simona Iftimie, Helena Castane, Elisabet Rodriguez-Tomas, Andrea Jimenez-Franco, Ana F. Lopez-Azcona, Antoni Castro, Jordi Camps, Jorge Joven
Summary: In this study, metabolomics techniques and machine learning algorithms were used to retrospectively analyze the alterations of metabolites in the serum and urine of COVID-19 patients. It was found that the main metabolites in the serum were altered, while urine analysis could not discriminate between groups. Metabolite alterations can be used for the diagnosis and prognosis of COVID-19.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Francisco Javier Alvarez-Martinez, Fernando Borras-Rocher, Vicente Micol, Enrique Barrajon-Catalan
Summary: This study developed a reproducible tool for objective reviews of scientific literature based on artificial intelligence applied to natural language processing. The tool was used to analyze 1601 research manuscripts and 136 patents to provide an objective state of the art on the antibacterial activity of Cistus genus plant extracts. The results reveal the most studied Cistus species, commonly used plant parts, and solvents, as well as the most susceptible bacterial species.
Article
Virology
Simona Iftimie, Ana F. Lopez-Azcona, Maria Jose Lozano-Olmo, Angels Naval-Ferrando, Vicent Domingo-Cortes, Helena Castane, Andrea Jimenez-Franco, Anna Hernandez-Aguilera, Carmen Guilarte, Francesc Riu, Jordi Camps, Jorge Joven, Antoni Castro
Summary: SARS-CoV-2 infection can still occur in vaccinated individuals and may lead to hospitalization. A retrospective study on 1295 COVID-19-positive patients was conducted to evaluate their clinical outcomes in relation to vaccination status and viral variant. The study revealed that age had a significant impact on outcomes, while vaccination status did not. Correct vaccination greatly reduces the risk of severe COVID-19, highlighting the importance of continuous promotion of vaccination and exploration of alternative treatments for non-responders.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Elia Navarro-Masip, Marina Colom-Pellicer, Francesca Manocchio, Anna Arola-Arnal, Francisca Isabel Bravo, Begona Muguerza, Gerard Aragones
Summary: Seasonal rhythms and photoperiod can influence metabolism and adipose tissue functionality. Supplementation with grape-seed proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE) has shown potential in preventing obesity-related alterations. In this study, GSPE supplementation was found to prevent excessive body weight gain and restore serum cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) concentrations depending on the photoperiod. GSPE also helped combat obesity-induced adipocyte hypertrophy and upregulated adiponectin mRNA levels. Overall, GSPE administration reduced the impact of obesity on adipose tissue depending on the photoperiod and type of adipose depots.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Darya Bulbiankova, Rocio Diaz-Puertas, Francisco Javier Alvarez-Martinez, Maria Herranz-Lopez, Enrique Barrajon-Catalan, Vicente Micol
Summary: Aging is a complex process characterized by declining physiological functions, leading to degenerative diseases and increased mortality risk. Cellular senescence is typically viewed as anti-proliferative, but the chronic accumulation of senescent cells contributes to tissue dysfunction and aging. This review discusses important biomarkers of senescence, including the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-beta-gal) enzyme, stable DNA damage response (DDR), senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) mediators, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Senotherapeutic strategies using natural compounds like quercetin, naringenin, and apigenin show promise in reducing SASP and preventing senescent cell accumulation, possibly through inhibiting pro-survival signaling pathways. These therapies may be effective for skin aging, although further studies are needed to confirm their short- and long-term effects.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jordi Camps, Simona Iftimie, Meritxell Arenas, Helena Castane, Andrea Jimenez-Franco, Antoni Castro, Jorge Joven
Summary: Both infectious and non-infectious diseases can have common molecular mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and inflammation. Factors like infections, excessive calorie intake, and inadequate nutrients can disrupt the balance between free radicals and antioxidants, which can lead to metabolic alterations and disease pathogenesis. The enzyme paraoxonase 1 (PON1) plays a crucial role in regulating these processes, protecting against oxidative stress and toxins. Understanding the relationship between oxidation, inflammation, and PON1 can lead to improved treatments and identification of new therapeutic targets. This review also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of measuring serum PON1 levels in clinical settings, providing insights into its potential clinical use.
CHEMICO-BIOLOGICAL INTERACTIONS
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Pedro Garrido, Xavier Gabaldo-Barrios, Isabel Pujol-Bajador, Luis Fernandez, Frederic Ballester, Raquel Garrido, Pitter Cueto, Jordi Camps, Immaculada Vallverdu
Summary: Early sepsis diagnosis is crucial for patient survival, and this study found that using multiplexed PCR for detecting microorganisms can improve response time for antibiotic treatment. However, there were discrepancies in polymicrobial samples.
CURRENT MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Cell Biology
Elisabet Cuyas, Sara Verdura, Begona Martin-Castillo, Javier A. Menendez
Summary: MOTS-c is an exercise-mimetic peptide expressed in multiple tissues and can be detected as a circulating hormone in the blood. Its mechanisms of action involve insulin sensitization, enhanced glucose utilization, suppression of mitochondrial respiration, and targeting of the folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway. The regulatory actions of the anti-diabetic drug metformin on MOTS-c have not been evaluated in detail.
