Antioxidants

Editorial

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4 pages, 209 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health

by Silvia M. Arribas and María A. Martín-Cabrejas

Antioxidants 2022, 11(4), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11040746 - 8 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2006

Abstract

Cardiometabolic diseases are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and the beneficial effect of diets rich in fruits and vegetables is widely recognized [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

21 pages, 1910 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supplementation with the Symbiotic Formulation Prodefen^® Increases Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase and Decreases Oxidative Stress in Superior Mesenteric Artery from Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

by Pablo Méndez-Albiñana, Ángel Martínez-González, Laura Camacho-Rodríguez, Álvaro Ferreira-Lazarte, Mar Villamiel, Raquel Rodrigues-Díez, Gloria Balfagón, Ana B. García-Redondo, Mª Isabel Prieto-Nieto and Javier Blanco-Rivero

Antioxidants 2022, 11(4), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11040680 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3644

Abstract

In recent years, gut dysbiosis has been related to some peripheral vascular alterations linked to hypertension. In this work, we explore whether gut dysbiosis is related to vascular innervation dysfunction and altered nitric oxide (NO) production in the superior mesenteric artery, one of [...] Read more.

In recent years, gut dysbiosis has been related to some peripheral vascular alterations linked to hypertension. In this work, we explore whether gut dysbiosis is related to vascular innervation dysfunction and altered nitric oxide (NO) production in the superior mesenteric artery, one of the main vascular beds involved in peripheral vascular resistance. For this purpose, we used spontaneously hypertensive rats, either treated or not with the commercial synbiotic formulation Prodefen^® (10⁸ colony forming units/day, 4 weeks). Prodefen^® diminished systolic blood pressure and serum endotoxin, as well as the vasoconstriction elicited by electrical field stimulation (EFS), and enhanced acetic and butyric acid in fecal samples, and the vasodilation induced by the exogenous NO donor DEA-NO. Unspecific nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-NAME increased EFS-induced vasoconstriction more markedly in rats supplemented with Prodefen^®. Both neuronal NO release and neuronal NOS activity were enhanced by Prodefen^®, through a hyperactivation of protein kinase (PK)A, PKC and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-AKT signaling pathways. The superoxide anion scavenger tempol increased both NO release and DEA-NO vasodilation only in control animals. Prodefen^® caused an increase in both nuclear erythroid related factor 2 and superoxide dismutase activities, consequently reducing both superoxide anion and peroxynitrite releases. In summary, Prodefen^® could be an interesting non-pharmacological approach to ameliorate hypertension. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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17 pages, 12947 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vasoactive Properties of a Cocoa Shell Extract: Mechanism of Action and Effect on Endothelial Dysfunction in Aged Rats

by Pilar Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Kendal Ragusky, Sophida Phuthong, Santiago Ruvira, David Ramiro-Cortijo, Silvia Cañas, Miguel Rebollo-Hernanz, María Dolores Morales, Ángel L. López de Pablo, María A. Martín-Cabrejas and Silvia M. Arribas

Antioxidants 2022, 11(2), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11020429 - 21 Feb 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2762

Abstract

Cocoa has cardiovascular beneficial effects related to its content of antioxidant phytochemicals. Cocoa manufacturing produces large amounts of waste, but some by-products may be used as ingredients with health-promoting potential. We aimed to investigate the vasoactive actions of an extract from cocoa shell [...] Read more.

Cocoa has cardiovascular beneficial effects related to its content of antioxidant phytochemicals. Cocoa manufacturing produces large amounts of waste, but some by-products may be used as ingredients with health-promoting potential. We aimed to investigate the vasoactive actions of an extract from cocoa shell (CSE), a by-product containing theobromine (TH), caffeine (CAF) and protocatechuic acid (PCA) as major phytochemicals. In carotid and iliac arteries from 5-month and 15-month-old rats, we investigated CSE vasoactive properties, mechanism of action, and the capacity of CSE, TH, CAF and PCA to improve age-induced endothelial dysfunction. Vascular function was evaluated using isometric tension recording and superoxide anion production by dihydroethidium (DHE) staining and confocal microscopy. CSE caused endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation, blocked by L-NAME, but not indomethacin, regardless of sex, age, or vessel type. CSE maximal responses and EC₅₀ were significantly lower compared to acetylcholine (ACh). Arterial preincubation with CSE, TH, CAF or PCA, significantly reduced the number of vascular DHE-positive cells. Compared to adult males, iliac arteries from aged males exhibited reduced ACh concentration-dependent vasodilatation but larger CSE responses. In iliac arteries from aged male and female rats, preincubation with 10⁻⁴ M CSE and PCA, but not TH or CAF, improved ACh-relaxations. In conclusion, CSE has vasodilatory properties associated with increased nitric oxide bioavailability, related to its antioxidant phytochemicals, being particularly relevant PCA. Therefore, CSE is a potential food ingredient for diseases related to endothelial dysfunction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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27 pages, 6241 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phytochemicals from the Cocoa Shell Modulate Mitochondrial Function, Lipid and Glucose Metabolism in Hepatocytes via Activation of FGF21/ERK, AKT, and mTOR Pathways

by Miguel Rebollo-Hernanz, Yolanda Aguilera, Maria A. Martin-Cabrejas and Elvira Gonzalez de Mejia

Antioxidants 2022, 11(1), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11010136 - 8 Jan 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4608

Abstract

The cocoa shell is a by-product that may be revalorized as a source of bioactive compounds to prevent chronic cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemicals from the cocoa shell as targeted compounds for activating fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) signaling [...] Read more.

The cocoa shell is a by-product that may be revalorized as a source of bioactive compounds to prevent chronic cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemicals from the cocoa shell as targeted compounds for activating fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) signaling and regulating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-related biomarkers linked to oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and metabolism in hepatocytes. HepG2 cells treated with palmitic acid (PA, 500 µmol L⁻¹) were used in an NAFLD cell model. Phytochemicals from the cocoa shell (50 µmol L⁻¹) and an aqueous extract (CAE, 100 µg mL⁻¹) enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation (1.7- to 3.3-fold) and FGF21 release (1.4- to 3.4-fold) via PPARα activation. Oxidative stress markers were reduced though Nrf-2 regulation. Mitochondrial function (mitochondrial respiration and ATP production) was protected by the PGC-1α pathway modulation. Cocoa shell phytochemicals reduced lipid accumulation (53–115%) and fatty acid synthase activity (59–93%) and prompted CPT-1 activity. Glucose uptake and glucokinase activity were enhanced, whereas glucose production and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase activity were diminished. The increase in the phosphorylation of the insulin receptor, AKT, AMPKα, mTOR, and ERK1/2 conduced to the regulation of hepatic mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. For the first time, the cocoa shell phytochemicals are proved to modulate FGF21 signaling. Results demonstrate the in vitro preventive effect of the phytochemicals from the cocoa shell on NAFLD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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8 pages, 268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Strawberries Improve Biomarkers of Antioxidant Status and Endothelial Function in Adults with Cardiometabolic Risks in a Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

by Arpita Basu, Kenneth Izuora, Nancy M. Betts, Jeffrey L. Ebersole and Robert Hal Scofield

Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10111730 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3368

Abstract

Strawberries, a popularly consumed berry fruit, are rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant effects. In this study, we examined the effects of two dietary achievable doses of strawberries on the antioxidant status and biomarkers of endothelial function in adults with features of metabolic [...] Read more.

Strawberries, a popularly consumed berry fruit, are rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant effects. In this study, we examined the effects of two dietary achievable doses of strawberries on the antioxidant status and biomarkers of endothelial function in adults with features of metabolic syndrome and a confirmed low baseline of fruit and vegetable intake. In a 14-week randomized controlled crossover study, participants were assigned to one of three groups for four weeks separated by a one-week washout period: control powder, one serving (low dose: 13 g strawberry powder/day), or 2.5 servings (high dose: 32 g strawberry powder/day). Blood samples and health data were collected at baseline and at the end of each four-week phase of intervention. Thirty-three participants completed all three phases of the trial. Significant increases were observed in serum antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity as well as decreases in lipid peroxidation after both low and high dose strawberry phases when compared with the control phase. Significant decreases were also observed in soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α with the high dose strawberry phase. These data confirm that consuming strawberries for four weeks significantly improves antioxidant status, endothelial function, and inflammation in adults with cardiometabolic risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

10 pages, 2274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant Effect of Lonicera caerulea L. in the Cardiovascular System of Obese Zucker Rats

by Ezgi Dayar, Martina Cebova, Jan Lietava, Elena Panghyova and Olga Pechanova

Antioxidants 2021, 10(8), 1199; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10081199 - 27 Jul 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2729

Abstract

Lonicera caerulea L. (Loni) represents a promising source of beneficial polyphenols with therapeutical potential in cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to study the effects of Loni and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on selected cardiometabolic parameters and NO/ROS balance in obese Zucker rats. Male Zucker rats [...] Read more.

Lonicera caerulea L. (Loni) represents a promising source of beneficial polyphenols with therapeutical potential in cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to study the effects of Loni and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on selected cardiometabolic parameters and NO/ROS balance in obese Zucker rats. Male Zucker rats were divided into the control group and groups treated with CoQ10 (30 mg/kg/day) or Loni (5 g/kg/day) for 6 weeks. Blood pressure, body weight, heart weight, and plasma lipid profile were determined. NOS activity and protein expressions of eNOS, SOD, NADPH oxidase, and NF-kappa B were measured in the heart and aorta. Neither body weight nor blood pressure were significantly changed after six weeks of Loni or CoQ10 treatment. Both Loni and CoQ10 decreased the plasma LDL level. Moreover, Loni decreased the total cholesterol level. The total NOS activity did not change in the heart after the treatments. However, in the aorta, Loni treatment increased NOS activity and protein expression of SOD and decreased expressions of NADPH oxidase and NF-kappa B compared to both the control and CoQ10 groups. There were no changes in the eNOS protein expression within the groups. In conclusion, it seems that the antioxidant effect of Loni was responsible for both the decrease of plasma LDL and the total cholesterol levels and the increase of vascular NOS activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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26 pages, 11646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Addition of Olive Leaf Extract to a Mixture of Algae and Extra Virgin Olive Oils Decreases Fatty Acid Oxidation and Synergically Attenuates Age-Induced Hypertension, Sarcopenia and Insulin Resistance in Rats

by Daniel González-Hedström, María de la Fuente-Fernández, Teresa Priego, Ana Isabel Martín, Sara Amor, Asunción López-Calderón, Antonio Manuel Inarejos-García, Ángel Luís García-Villalón and Miriam Granado

Antioxidants 2021, 10(7), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10071066 - 1 Jul 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4376

Abstract

Olive-derived products, such as virgin olive oil (EVOO) and/or olive leaf extracts (OLE), exert anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing and antihypertensive properties and may be useful for stabilizing omega 3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) due to their high content in antioxidant compounds. In this study, the [...] Read more.

Olive-derived products, such as virgin olive oil (EVOO) and/or olive leaf extracts (OLE), exert anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing and antihypertensive properties and may be useful for stabilizing omega 3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) due to their high content in antioxidant compounds. In this study, the addition of OLE 4:0.15 (w/w) to a mixture of algae oil (AO) rich in n-3 PUFA and EVOO (25:75, w/w) prevents peroxides formation after 12 months of storage at 30 °C. Furthermore, the treatment with the oil mixture (2.5 mL/Kg) and OLE (100 mg/Kg) to 24 month old Wistar rats for 21 days improved the lipid profile, increased the HOMA-IR and decreased the serum levels of miRNAs 21 and 146a. Treatment with this new nutraceutical also prevented age-induced insulin resistance in the liver, gastrocnemius and visceral adipose tissue by decreasing the mRNA levels of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Oil mixture + OLE also attenuated the age-induced alterations in vascular function and prevented muscle loss by decreasing the expression of sarcopenia-related markers. In conclusion, treatment with a new nutraceutical based on a mixture of EVOO, AO and OLE is a useful strategy for improving the stability of n-3 PUFA in the final product and to attenuate the cardiometabolic and muscular disorders associated with aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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14 pages, 1799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Antioxidant Vitamins, Curry Consumption, and Heavy Metal Levels on Metabolic Syndrome with Comorbidities: A Korean Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

by Hai Nguyen Duc, Hojin Oh and Min-Sun Kim

Antioxidants 2021, 10(5), 808; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10050808 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 4074

Abstract

The burden of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased worldwide, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this phenomenon is related to environmental, dietary, and lifestyle risk factors. We aimed to determine the association between the levels of serum heavy metals, hs-CRP, vitamins, and curry [...] Read more.

The burden of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased worldwide, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this phenomenon is related to environmental, dietary, and lifestyle risk factors. We aimed to determine the association between the levels of serum heavy metals, hs-CRP, vitamins, and curry intake and to predict risks of MetS based on marginal effects. A data set of 60,256 Koreans aged ≥ 15 years between 2009 and 2017 was used to obtain information on sociodemographic, lifestyle, family history characteristics, MetS, food intake survey, and serum heavy metals. Daily intake of vitamins was measured by a one-day 24 h recall, and curry consumption was calculated using a food frequency questionnaire. Serum heavy metal levels were quantified by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and using a mercury analyzer. We found that vitamin B1, B2, B3, C, and A intakes were significantly lower in subjects with than without MetS. In contrast, serum levels of Pb, Hg, Cd, vitamin A, E, and hs-CRP were significantly higher in subjects with MetS. The risk of MetS was significantly lower for high curry consumers than low curry consumers (adjusted odds ratio 0.85, 95%CI 0.74–0.98). The risks of MetS were reduced by 12% and 1%, when vitamin B1 and C intakes increased by one mg, respectively, but were increased by 14%, 3%, and 9%, when serum levels of Pb, Hg, and hs-CRP increased by one unit. These results show that the potential health benefits resulting from vitamin and curry intakes could protect the public against the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Further studies are required to reduce risk factors associated with serum heavy metal levels and to determine whether interactions between vitamin and curry consumption influence the presence of MetS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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20 pages, 3012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Galangin Resolves Cardiometabolic Disorders through Modulation of AdipoR1, COX-2, and NF-κB Expression in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet

by Patoomporn Prasatthong, Sariya Meephat, Siwayu Rattanakanokchai, Juthamas Khamseekaew, Sarawoot Bunbupha, Parichat Prachaney, Putcharawipa Maneesai and Poungrat Pakdeechote

Antioxidants 2021, 10(5), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10050769 - 12 May 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3490

Abstract

Galangin is a natural flavonoid. In this study, we evaluated whether galangin could alleviate signs of metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiac abnormalities in rats receiving a high-fat (HF) diet. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were given an HF diet plus 15% fructose for four months, [...] Read more.

Galangin is a natural flavonoid. In this study, we evaluated whether galangin could alleviate signs of metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiac abnormalities in rats receiving a high-fat (HF) diet. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were given an HF diet plus 15% fructose for four months, and they were fed with galangin (25 or 50 mg/kg), metformin (100 mg/kg), or a vehicle for the last four weeks. The MS rats exhibited signs of MS, hypertrophy of adipocytes, impaired liver function, and cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. These abnormalities were alleviated by galangin (p < 0.05). Interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations and expression were high in the plasma and cardiac tissue in the MS rats, and these markers were suppressed by galangin (p < 0.05). These treatments also alleviated the low levels of adiponectin and oxidative stress induced by an HF diet in rats. The downregulation of adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the upregulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression were recovered in the galangin-treated groups. Metformin produced similar effects to galangin. In conclusion, galangin reduced cardiometabolic disorders in MS rats. These effects might be linked to the suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress and the restoration of AdipoR1, COX-2, and NF-κB expression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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17 pages, 3524 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genistein Prevents Nitric Oxide Deficiency-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction and Remodeling in Rats

by Anuson Poasakate, Putcharawipa Maneesai, Siwayu Rattanakanokchai, Sarawoot Bunbupha, Terdthai Tong-Un and Poungrat Pakdeechote

Antioxidants 2021, 10(2), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10020237 - 4 Feb 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3740

Abstract

Genistein is an isoflavone found in soybeans. This study evaluates the protective effects of genistein on N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME)-induced hypertension, cardiac remodeling, and dysfunction in rats. Male Wistar rats were treated with L-NAME 40 mg/kg/day together for 5 weeks, [...] Read more.

Genistein is an isoflavone found in soybeans. This study evaluates the protective effects of genistein on N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME)-induced hypertension, cardiac remodeling, and dysfunction in rats. Male Wistar rats were treated with L-NAME 40 mg/kg/day together for 5 weeks, with or without genistein at a dose of 40 or 80 mg/kg/day or lisinopril 5 mg/kg/day (n = 8 per group). Genistein prevented L-NAME-induced hypertension in rats. Increases in the left ventricular weight, metalloproteinase-2, metalloproteinase-9, and collagen type I intensity were observed in L-NAME rats, and these changes were attenuated in the genistein-treated group. Genistein reduced circulating angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and angiotensin II concentrations in L-NAME rats. L-NAME increased plasma and cardiac malondialdehyde and vascular superoxide generations, as well as reductions of serum and cardiac catalase activities in rats. Plasma nitrate/nitrite were protected in the genistein-treated group. Genistein prevented the L-NAME-induced overexpression of angiotensin II receptor type I (AT₁R), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunit 2 (gp91^phox), and transforming growth factor beta I (TGF-β1) in hypertensive rats. In conclusion, genistein exhibited a cardioprotective effect in hypertensive rats in this study. The molecular mechanisms might be mediated by suppression of oxidative stress through the Ang II/AT₁R/NADPH oxidase/TGF-β1 signaling pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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13 pages, 1616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant Lifestyle, Co-Morbidities and Quality of Life Empowerment Concerning Liver Fibrosis

by Diego Martinez-Urbistondo, Rafael Suarez del Villar, Josepmaria Argemí, Lidia Daimiel, Omar Ramos-López, Rodrigo San-Cristobal, Paula Villares and Jose Alfredo Martinez

Antioxidants 2020, 9(11), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9111125 - 13 Nov 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2219

Abstract

The assessment of liver fibrosis has gained importance since the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Indeed, the description of the association between undetected liver fibrosis and lifestyle in terms of antioxidant habits, comorbidity and quality of life (QoL) domains may help [...] Read more.

The assessment of liver fibrosis has gained importance since the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Indeed, the description of the association between undetected liver fibrosis and lifestyle in terms of antioxidant habits, comorbidity and quality of life (QoL) domains may help in the characterization of subjects with NAFLD. A cross-sectional evaluation of (n = 116) consecutive patients from an Internal Medicine ambulatory evaluation was performed. Demographic data, lifestyle, co-morbidity, QoL (according to the SF-36 index) and analytical values to calculate the oxidative related Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index were recorded. The association between FIB-4 and co-morbidity, antioxidant habits in QoL was assessed in univariate analysis (p < 0.05) and confirmed in multivariable analysis for 4 of the 8 SF-36 categories: Physical QoL, Physical role, Social QoL and General QoL, as well as in the Physical summary of SF-36 (p < 0.05). Finally, interactions were assessed between co-morbidity, FIB-4 and antioxidant habits showed in the prediction of mean SF-36 (p < 0.01). Liver fibrosis assessed by the oxidative surrogate index FIB-4 is associated with the interaction between antioxidant lifestyle, co-morbidity and physical, social and general aspects of QoL in apparent liver disease-free individuals, generating a proof of concept for health empowerment and personalized medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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Review

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23 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessReview

Blueberry as an Attractive Functional Fruit to Prevent (Pre)Diabetes Progression

by Sara Nunes, Pedro Vieira, Pedro Gomes, Sofia Domingues Viana and Flávio Reis

Antioxidants 2021, 10(8), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10081162 - 22 Jul 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6449

Abstract

Prediabetes, a subclinical impairment between euglycemia and hyperglycemia, is a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associated micro- and macrovascular complications. Lifestyle therapy, the first-line treatment of prediabetes, includes physical exercise and dietary regimens enriched in phytochemicals [...] Read more.

Prediabetes, a subclinical impairment between euglycemia and hyperglycemia, is a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associated micro- and macrovascular complications. Lifestyle therapy, the first-line treatment of prediabetes, includes physical exercise and dietary regimens enriched in phytochemicals with health-related properties. Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), given their pleasant taste and great abundance in beneficial phytochemicals, have gained public interest all over the world. Along with a high antioxidant activity, this functional fruit is also well-recognized due to its hypoglycemic and insulin-sensitizing effects and has been recommended for overt T2DM management. Yet blueberries target several other pathophysiological traits, namely gut microbiota dysbiosis and hepatic dysmetabolism, that ensue when prediabetes begins and for which pharmacological interventions tend to be delayed. In this work, we revisited preclinical data from in vitro assays, animal models and human studies, aiming to disclose the potential mechanisms by which blueberries may be a fruitful source of phytochemicals able to prevent (pre)diabetes progression. Collectively, future efforts should focus on longer-term studies with standardized interventions and readouts, particularly in humans, that will hopefully bring more robust evidence and concrete guidance for blueberries’ effective use in prediabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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19 pages, 1258 KiB

Open AccessReview

Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators in Neonatal Cardiovascular Physiology and Diseases

by Andrea Gila-Diaz, Gloria Herranz Carrillo, Pratibha Singh and David Ramiro-Cortijo

Antioxidants 2021, 10(6), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10060933 - 8 Jun 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4083

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Unresolved inflammation plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases development. Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs), derived from long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), enhances the host defense, by resolving the inflammation and tissue repair. In [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Unresolved inflammation plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases development. Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs), derived from long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), enhances the host defense, by resolving the inflammation and tissue repair. In addition, SPMs also have anti-inflammatory properties. These physiological effects depend on the availability of LCPUFAs precursors and cellular metabolic balance. Most of the studies have focused on the impact of SPMs in adult cardiovascular health and diseases. In this review, we discuss LCPUFAs metabolism, SPMs, and their potential effect on cardiovascular health and diseases primarily focusing in neonates. A better understanding of the role of these SPMs in cardiovascular health and diseases in neonates could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches in cardiovascular dysfunction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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26 pages, 1338 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mechanisms Modified by (−)-Epicatechin and Taxifolin Relevant for the Treatment of Hypertension and Viral Infection: Knowledge from Preclinical Studies

by Iveta Bernatova and Silvia Liskova

Antioxidants 2021, 10(3), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10030467 - 16 Mar 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5102

Abstract

Various studies have shown that certain flavonoids, flavonoid-containing plant extracts, and foods can improve human health. Experimental studies showed that flavonoids have the capacity to alter physiological processes as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with their antioxidant properties. An important function [...] Read more.

Various studies have shown that certain flavonoids, flavonoid-containing plant extracts, and foods can improve human health. Experimental studies showed that flavonoids have the capacity to alter physiological processes as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with their antioxidant properties. An important function of flavonoids was determined in the cardiovascular system, namely their capacity to lower blood pressure and to improve endothelial function. (−)-Epicatechin and taxifolin are two flavonoids with notable antihypertensive effects and multiple beneficial actions in the cardiovascular system, but they also possess antiviral effects, which may be of particular importance in the ongoing pandemic situation. Thus, this review is focused on the current knowledge of (−)-epicatechin as well as (+)-taxifolin and/or (−)-taxifolin-modified biological action and underlining molecular mechanisms determined in preclinical studies, which are relevant not only to the treatment of hypertension per se but may provide additional antiviral benefits that could be relevant to the treatment of hypertensive subjects with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Foods and Cardiometabolic Health)

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