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A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (5 May 2024) | Viewed by 31506

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Prof. Dr. Jacqueline Isaura Alvarez-Leite

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Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Interests: obesity; inflammation; immunity; bioactive compounds; nutrition; apolipoproteins
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Bioactive compounds are being studied to better understand their effects on health and disease. These compounds are found in several foods, such as beverages (wine, cedar, juices), vegetable oils, spices (curcuma, pepper, etc.), teas, and infusions. Within in vitro or in vivo studies, some of these compounds have already showed several potentially beneficial effects on human health and in the prevention of disease. Plant bioactive compounds are of great interest in this area due to the range of compound varieties and actions, such as thermogenesis, inflammation, metabolism, and endocrine factors.

More research is needed to explore their use in improving physical performance; the aging process; or preventing or helping treat diseases such as obesity, CVD, diabetes mellitus tumors, and inflammatory processes in general.

In this context, we invite you to submit your research work or experience to the Special Issue "The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease." Clinical, experimental, and in vitro studies, as well as reviews on the effects of bioactive compounds in obesity and its comorbidities, are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Jacqueline Isaura Alvarez-Leite
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

bioactive compounds
obesity
diabetes
tumors
inflammatory
cardiovascular disease
plants
immunity
diet
nutrition

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 3710 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Obesity Effects of Pleurotus ferulae Water Extract on 3T3-L1 Adipocytes and High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obese Mice

by Seulmin Hong, Seonkyeong Park, Jangho Lee, Soohyun Park, Jaeho Park and Yugeon Lee

Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4139; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234139 - 29 Nov 2024

Viewed by 572

Abstract

This study offers promising insights into the anti-obesity potential of Pleurotus ferulae, an edible mushroom valued in Asian cuisine for its nutritional benefits. A hot water extract of P. ferulae (PWE) administered to high-fat diet-induced obese mice over an 8-week period significantly reduced their body weight gain and fat accumulation. PWE not only improved the body weight metrics but also positively influenced the serum lipid profile of obese mice by lowering their total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In vitro studies using 3T3-L1 adipocytes showed that PWE inhibited adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation by downregulating key adipogenic transcription factors, particularly PPARγ and C/EBPα, as well as related lipogenic genes involved in fat synthesis and storage, such as Fabp4, Fasn, and Scd1. Chemical analysis revealed that PWE is rich in polysaccharides, which have been associated with various health benefits, including anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer properties. These findings suggest that the bioactive compounds in PWE may serve as functional food components that could potentially be applied for the prevention and management of obesity and other metabolic disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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16 pages, 2805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) Flour Reduces Inflammation and Had No Effects on Oxidative Stress and Endotoxemia in Wistar Rats with Induced Colorectal Carcinogenesis

by Mariana Grancieri, Mirelle Lomar Viana, Daniela Furtado de Oliveira, Maria das Graças Vaz Tostes, Mariana Drummond Costa Ignacchiti, André Gustavo Vasconcelos Costa and Neuza Maria Brunoro Costa

Nutrients 2023, 15(14), 3281; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15143281 - 24 Jul 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1850

Abstract

Colorectal cancer has a high worldwide incidence. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of yacon flour (YF) on oxidative stress, inflammation, and endotoxemia in rats with induced colorectal cancer (CRC). The Wistar male rats were divided and kept for 8 weeks in four groups: S (basal diet, n = 10), Y (YF flour + basal diet, n = 10), C (CRC-induced control + basal diet, n = 12), CY (CRC-induced animals + YF, n = 12). CRC was induced by intraperitoneal injections of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (25 mg/kg body weight). Groups Y and CY received 7.5% of the prebiotic FOS from YF. The treatment with YF increased fecal secretory immunoglobulin A levels and decreased lipopolysaccharides, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-12. However, no effect was observed on the oxidative stress by the total antioxidant capacity of plasma, anion superoxide, and nitric oxide analysis of the animals (p < 0.05). The short-chain fatty acids acetate, propionate, and butyrate showed interactions with NF-κB, TLR4, iNOS, and NADPH oxidase by in silico analysis and had a correlation (by the Person analysis) with CRC markers. The yacon flour treatment reduced the inflammation in rats with induced CRC, and could be a promising food to reduce the damages caused by colorectal cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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Review

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26 pages, 9656 KiB

Open AccessReview

Synergic Role of Dietary Bioactive Compounds in Breast Cancer Chemoprevention and Combination Therapies

by Marisabel Mecca, Marzia Sichetti, Martina Giuseffi, Eugenia Giglio, Claudia Sabato, Francesca Sanseverino and Graziella Marino

Nutrients 2024, 16(12), 1883; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16121883 - 14 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2135

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common tumor in women. Chemotherapy is the gold standard for cancer treatment; however, severe side effects and tumor resistance are the major obstacles to chemotherapy success. Numerous dietary components and phytochemicals have been found to inhibit the molecular and signaling pathways associated with different stages of breast cancer development. In particular, this review is focused on the antitumor effects of PUFAs, dietary enzymes, and glucosinolates against breast cancer. The major databases were consulted to search in vitro and preclinical studies; only those with solid scientific evidence and reporting protective effects on breast cancer treatment were included. A consistent number of studies highlighted that dietary components and phytochemicals can have remarkable therapeutic effects as single agents or in combination with other anticancer agents, administered at different concentrations and via different routes of administration. These provide a natural strategy for chemoprevention, reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence, impair cell proliferation and viability, and induce apoptosis. Some of these bioactive compounds of dietary origin, however, show poor solubility and low bioavailability; hence, encapsulation in nanoformulations are promising tools able to increase clinical efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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24 pages, 3716 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Pharmacological Properties of Red Grape Polyphenol Resveratrol: Clinical Trials and Obstacles in Drug Development

by Mohd Farhan and Asim Rizvi

Nutrients 2023, 15(20), 4486; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15204486 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6794

Abstract

Resveratrol is a stilbenoid from red grapes that possesses a strong antioxidant activity. Resveratrol has been shown to have anticancer activity, making it a promising drug for the treatment and prevention of numerous cancers. Several in vitro and in vivo investigations have validated resveratrol’s anticancer capabilities, demonstrating its ability to block all steps of carcinogenesis (such as initiation, promotion, and progression). Additionally, resveratrol has been found to have auxiliary pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective activity. Despite its pharmacological properties, several obstacles, such as resveratrol’s poor solubility and bioavailability, as well as its adverse effects, continue to be key obstacles to drug development. This review critically evaluates the clinical trials to date and aims to develop a framework to develop resveratrol into a clinically viable drug. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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17 pages, 1964 KiB

Open AccessReview

Are We Ready to Recommend Capsaicin for Disorders Other Than Neuropathic Pain?

by Janayne L. Silva, Elandia A. Santos and Jacqueline I. Alvarez-Leite

Nutrients 2023, 15(20), 4469; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15204469 - 21 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3812

Abstract

Capsaicin, a lipophilic, volatile compound, is responsible for the pungent properties of chili peppers. In recent years, a significant increase in investigations into its properties has allowed the production of new formulations and the development of tools with biotechnological, diagnostic, and potential therapeutic applications. Most of these studies show beneficial effects, improving antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status, inducing thermogenesis, and reducing white adipose tissue. Other mechanisms, including reducing food intake and improving intestinal dysbiosis, are also described. In this way, the possible clinical application of such compound is expanding every year. This opinion article aims to provide a synthesis of recent findings regarding the mechanisms by which capsaicin participates in the control of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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27 pages, 4662 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vaccinium uliginosum and Vaccinium myrtillus—Two Species—One Used as a Functional Food

by Agnieszka Kopystecka, Ilona Kozioł, Dominika Radomska, Krzysztof Bielawski, Anna Bielawska and Monika Wujec

Nutrients 2023, 15(19), 4119; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15194119 - 23 Sep 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3389

Abstract

Vaccinium uliginosum L. (commonly known as bog bilberry) and Vaccinium myrtillus L. (commonly known as bilberry) are species of the genus Vaccinium (family Ericaceae). The red–purple–blue coloration of blueberries is attributed largely to the anthocyanins found in bilberries. Anthocyanins, known for their potent biological activity as antioxidants, have a significant involvement in the prophylaxis of cancer or other diseases, including those of metabolic origin. Bilberry is the most important economically wild berry in Northern Europe, and it is also extensively used in juice and food production. A review of the latest literature was performed to assess the composition and biological activity of V. uliginosum and V. myrtillus. Clinical studies confirm the benefits of V. uliginosum and V. myrtillus supplementation as part of a healthy diet. Because of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and apoptosis-reducing activity, both bog bilberries and bilberries can be used interchangeably as a dietary supplement with anti-free radical actions in the prevention of cancer diseases and cataracts, or as a component of sunscreen preparations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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18 pages, 7033 KiB

Open AccessReview

Insights into the Chemical Compositions and Health Promoting Effects of Wild Edible Mushroom Chroogomphus rutilus

by Bincheng Han, Jinhai Luo and Baojun Xu

Nutrients 2023, 15(18), 4030; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15184030 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2184

Abstract

Chroogomphus rutilus is an edible mushroom that has been an important food source since ancient times. It is increasingly sought after for its unique flavor and medicinal value. It is one of the most important wild mushrooms for its medicinal and economic value. C. rutilus contains a variety of active ingredients such as vitamins, proteins, minerals, polysaccharides, and phenolics. C. rutilus and its active compounds have significant anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, anti-fatigue, hypoglycemic, gastroprotective, hypolipemic, and neuronal protective properties. This paper summarizes the fungal chemical compositions and health-promoting effects of C. rutilus by collecting the literature on the role of C. rutilus through its active ingredients from websites such as Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. Current research on C. rutilus is limited to the cellular and animal levels, and further clinical trials are needed to conduct and provide theoretical support for further development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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17 pages, 900 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bioactivity of Macronutrients from Chlorella in Physical Exercise

by Karenia Lorenzo, Garoa Santocildes, Joan Ramon Torrella, José Magalhães, Teresa Pagès, Ginés Viscor, Josep Lluís Torres and Sara Ramos-Romero

Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2168; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092168 - 30 Apr 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4983

Abstract

Chlorella is a marine microalga rich in proteins and containing all the essential amino acids. Chlorella also contains fiber and other polysaccharides, as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid. The proportion of the different macronutrients in Chlorella can be modulated by altering the conditions in which it is cultured. The bioactivities of these macronutrients make Chlorella a good candidate food to include in regular diets or as the basis of dietary supplements in exercise-related nutrition both for recreational exercisers and professional athletes. This paper reviews current knowledge of the effects of the macronutrients in Chlorella on physical exercise, specifically their impact on performance and recovery. In general, consuming Chlorella improves both anaerobic and aerobic exercise performance as well as physical stamina and reduces fatigue. These effects seem to be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic activity of all its macronutrients, while each component of Chlorella contributes its bioactivity via a specific action. Chlorella is an excellent dietary source of high-quality protein in the context of physical exercise, as dietary proteins increase satiety, activation of the anabolic mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin) pathway in skeletal muscle, and the thermic effects of meals. Chlorella proteins also increase intramuscular free amino acid levels and enhance the ability of the muscles to utilize them during exercise. Fiber from Chlorella increases the diversity of the gut microbiota, which helps control body weight and maintain intestinal barrier integrity, and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which improve physical performance. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from Chlorella contribute to endothelial protection and modulate the fluidity and rigidity of cell membranes, which may improve performance. Ultimately, in contrast to several other nutritional sources, the use of Chlorella to provide high-quality protein, dietary fiber, and bioactive fatty acids may also significantly contribute to a sustainable world through the fixation of carbon dioxide and a reduction of the amount of land used to produce animal feed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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25 pages, 2239 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mexican Plants Involved in Glucose Homeostasis and Body Weight Control: Systematic Review

by Montserrat Torres-Vanda and Ruth Gutiérrez-Aguilar

Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2070; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092070 - 25 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Background: Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation, provoking many different diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic-degenerative disease characterized by increased blood glucose levels. Obesity and type 2 diabetes are currently considered public health problems, and their prevalence has increased over the last few years. Because of the high cost involved in the treatment of both diseases, different alternatives have been sought. However, the general population uses medicinal plants, in the form of tea or infusions, to treat different diseases. Therefore, traditional medicine using medicinal plants has been investigated as a possible treatment for type 2 diabetes and body weight control. Aim of the study: The purpose of this review is to find medicinal plants used in Mexico that could exert their beneficial effect by regulating insulin secretion and body weight control. Material and method: For the development of this review, Mexican plants used in traditional medicine to treat type 2 diabetes and body weight control were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria include plants that presented a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and/or an increase in insulin secretion. Results: We found 306 Mexican plants with hypoglycemic effects. However, plants that did not show evidence of an increase in insulin secretion were eliminated. Finally, only five plants were included in this review: Momordica charantia L. (melón amargo), Cucurbita ficifolia bouché (chilacayote), Coriandrum sativum L. (cilantro), Persea americana Mill. (aguacate) Bidens pilosa (amor seco), including 39 articles in total. Here, we summarized the plant extracts (aqueous and organic) that have previously been reported to present hypoglycemic effects, body weight control, increased secretion and sensitivity of insulin, improvement of pancreatic β cells, and glucose tolerance. Additionally, these effects may be due to different bioactive compounds present in the plants’ extracts. Conclusion: Both in vivo and in vitro studies are required to understand the mechanism of action of these plant extracts regarding insulin secretion to be used as a possible treatment for type 2 diabetes and body weight control in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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Other

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31 pages, 3463 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Bioactives in Oral Nutritional Supplementation: A Pediatric Point of View

by Nicola Cecchi, Roberta Romanelli, Flavia Ricevuti, Maria Grazia Carbone, Michele Dinardo, Elisabetta Cesarano, Alfredo De Michele, Giovanni Messere, Salvatore Morra, Armando Scognamiglio and Maria Immacolata Spagnuolo

Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 2067; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132067 - 28 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1737

Abstract

Background: Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) are crucial for supporting the nutritional needs of pediatric populations, particularly those with medical conditions or dietary deficiencies. Bioactive compounds within ONSs play a pivotal role in enhancing health outcomes by exerting various physiological effects beyond basic nutrition. However, the comprehensive understanding of these bioactives in pediatric ONSs remains elusive. Objective: This systematic narrative review aims to critically evaluate the existing literature concerning bioactive compounds present in oral nutritional supplements from a pediatric standpoint, focusing on their types, sources, bioavailability, physiological effects, and clinical implications. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across the major academic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, employing predefined search terms related to oral nutritional supplements, bioactives, and pediatrics. Studies published between 2013 and 2024 were considered eligible for inclusion. Data extraction and synthesis were performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Results: The initial search yielded 558 of articles, of which 72 met the inclusion criteria. The included studies encompassed a diverse range of bioactive compounds present in pediatric ONS formulations, including, but not limited to, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, prebiotics, probiotics, and phytonutrients. These bioactives were sourced from various natural and synthetic origins and were found to exert beneficial effects on growth, development, immune function, gastrointestinal health, cognitive function, and overall well-being in pediatric populations. However, variations in bioavailability, dosing, and clinical efficacy were noted across different compounds and formulations. Conclusions: Bioactive compounds in oral nutritional supplements offer promising avenues for addressing the unique nutritional requirements and health challenges faced by pediatric populations. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the optimal composition, dosage, and clinical applications of these bioactives in pediatric ONS formulations. A deeper understanding of these bioactive compounds and their interplay with pediatric health may pave the way for personalized and effective nutritional interventions in pediatric clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Action of Bioactive Compounds on Human Health or Disease)

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