Search Results (520)

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor (TRPV1) is a calcium-sensitive membrane receptor activated by capsaicin and the endocannabinoid, anandamide (AEA). Once activated in vitro, endometrial cancer (EC) cell growth appears to be inhibited through increased apoptosis, but the mechanism remains unclear. Our aim was to investigate the expression and distribution of TRPV1 in normal and cancerous endometria and to determine the precise in vitro mechanism of decreased EC cellular growth. TRPV1 expression in patients with endometrial carcinoma (15 Type 1 EC, six Type 2 EC) and six normal patients (atrophic endometria) was assessed using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Additionally, immunohistochemical staining for the proliferation marker Ki-67, the pro-apoptotic marker BAX and the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2 were explored. TRPV1 transcript (p = 0.0054) and immunoreactive protein (p < 0.0001) levels were significantly reduced in all EC tissues when compared to control (atrophic) endometria. The almost 50% reduction in TRPV1 transcript levels was mirrored by an almost complete loss of immunoreactive TRPV1 protein. The increased proliferation (Ki-67) of EC tissues correlated with the expression of mutated BAX and inversely correlated to Bcl-2, but only in Type 2 EC samples. In vitro, AEA caused a decrease in Ishikawa cell numbers, whilst capsaicin did not, suggesting the anti-proliferative effect of AEA in EC cells is not via the TRPV1 receptor. In conclusion, the loss of TRPV1 expression in vivo plays a role in the aetiopathogenesis of EC. Activation of cells by AEA also probably promotes EC cell loss through a pro-apoptotic mechanism not involving TRPV1. Full article

Nanomaterials (NMs) hold significant potential for enhancing agricultural production, extending the shelf life, and maintaining the quality of postharvest vegetables and fruits. In this study, after foliar spraying with 1, 10, and 50 mg of L⁻¹ Fe-P NMs at different stages (seedling, flowering, and fruit stage), the pepper plant growth was significantly improved. In particular, the foliar application of 10 mg of L⁻¹ Fe-P NMs during the flowering stage was found to be an optimal cultivation approach to promote the growth, yield, and freshness of peppers. Compared with the control group, Fe-P NMs increased net photosynthetic rate, plant height, and fruit number by 132.7%, 40.4%, and 265.7%, respectively. The applied Fe-P NMs, at the flowering stage, altered the capsaicin metabolic pathway, upregulating the genes for the synthesis of total phenols, flavonoids, lignans, and capsaicinoids. Consequently, these metabolites, which are beneficial for maintaining the freshness of pepper fruits, were increased. Furthermore, Fe-P NMs at the flowering stage downregulated the abundance of rot-causing microorganisms (Enterobacter and Chryseobacterium) and upregulated beneficial microorganisms (Pseudomonas, Arthrobacter, Sphingobacterium, and Paenibacillus) to change the microbial community structure. This ultimately created a micro-ecological environment conducive to the preservation of pepper fruits. For comparison, during pepper fruit storage, dipping and spraying with Fe-P NM suspensions effectively delayed weight loss and enhanced the growth of beneficial bacteria. Nevertheless, the effect was less pronounced than preharvest foliar application. This study provides insights into the pre- or postharvest application of NMs for improving the preservation performance of pepper fruits. Full article

Peppers (Capsicum spp.) represent not only a plant with a demonstrated history of diverse medicinal applications but also a species having non-neglectable adverse effects potential. “Chili burn” or Hunan hand syndrome represents a type of contact dermatitis rarely appearing after using chili peppers. Here, a case of “chili burn” with no specific treatments or sequelae is presented. A young woman presented with contact dermatitis after first- and second-time dermal exposure to a chili pepper. A strong burning sensation appeared shortly after on the hands and around the mouth after exposure to the plant. The patient applied non-specific measures (hand washing with mild soap and rinsing the affected areas with acidic solutions) with minor improvement; finally, the “chili burn” resolved itself. No other medicines were applied, and no consequences were recorded. Although rare, the use of chili pepper has the potential to cause contact dermatitis. The awareness of medical professionals of this entity should provide adequate diagnosis and treatment for patients. Full article

Capsaicinoids obtained from lyophilized serrano chili by sorbitan monooleate solutions were investigated. Sorbitan monooleate was as effective as methanol in extracting capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin (DHC). Subsequently, a Box–Behnken design was used to optimize capsaicin, DHC, and polyphenol extraction, as well as to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of dehydrated serrano chili. Particle size (PS) (20–60 mesh), processing temperature (55–75 °C), and sorbitan concentration (1.5–2.5%) were selected as independent variables. The statistical analysis showed that the quadratic models adequately describe the response of the concentration of capsaicin and DHC, but not with polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. The highest extraction of capsaicin (~620 mg/100 g dw) and DHC (~520 mg/100 g dw) was achieved with the combination of sorbitan at 2%, temperature at 65 °C, and PS from 40 mesh. Experimental and predicted values were closely consistent. Meanwhile, extracts with the highest antioxidant potential (~7510 and ~5820 µM of Trolox Eq/100 g dw for ABTS and FRAP, respectively) were those extracted in sorbitan and PS from 40 mesh. In contrast, the highest values of polyphenols (~171 mg gallic acid Eq/100 g dw) were found in the extracts prepared at 75 °C. These results suggest that sorbitan monooleate solutions can be an effective, non-toxic, and environmentally responsible way to obtain capsaicinoids and bioactive compounds from dehydrated serrano chili. Full article

Chronic pain significantly impacts quality of life and is often accompanied by inflammation, a natural bodily response that can become harmful when excessive. The orofacial region is commonly affected, making effective treatment crucial. However, current drugs often cause undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for new pharmacological alternatives. 4-hydroxycoumarin (4-HC), a natural compound, has shown promising antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects, but studies confirming its specific properties are limited. In silico analyses suggest that 4-HC exhibits favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics, not interacting with P-glycoprotein and successfully crossing the blood–brain barrier. Molecular docking studies indicate that its effects may be mediated through NMDA_R or by inhibiting iNOS. Our study assessed the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of 4-HC in animal models at doses of 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg. 4-HC significantly reduced abdominal contortions induced by acetic acid and decreased nociceptive rubbing in orofacial pain models induced by formalin, glutamate, and capsaicin. Interactions with opioid receptors were not observed, suggesting that 4-HC’s antinociceptive effect does not involve this pathway. Additionally, 4-HC reduced paw edema induced by carrageenan and significantly decreased leukocyte migration and TNF-α levels. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of 4-HC and warrant further investigation into its mechanisms. Full article

Gastric cancer is one of the most frequent cancer types in the Latin American population, and its development is related to multiple factors, including diet. The present systematic review and meta-analysis, based on PRISMA, aims to determine dietary components associated with gastric cancer in Latin America. The dietary components were divided into food and micro- and macronutrients. Meta-analyses were performed for the different groups of foods, and the effects were calculated using Odds Ratios. A total of 483 studies were identified; thirteen articles were included after removing duplicates and applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta-analysis for the different groups of food showed that daily consumption of vegetables (OR 0.54; 95% CI [0.41, 071]) and fruits (OR 0.57; 95% CI [0.45, 0.73]) were protective factors for gastric cancer; consumption of fresh meat and eggs (OR 1.47; 95% CI [1.12, 1.95]), and salted, canned, and pickled foods (OR 2.30; 95% CI [1.10, 4.80]) were risk factors for gastric cancer. Consuming carotenoids, plant sterols, total polyphenols, proteins, and polyunsaturated fats was a protective factor regarding micro- and macronutrients. Therefore, the consumption of nitrite and nitrate in meat products and capsaicin was considered a risk factor for gastric cancer. Full article

Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood plasma (hyperhomocysteinemia, HHCY) positively correlate with migraine symptoms in patients. Experimental studies show a higher sensitivity of rats with prenatal HHCY (pHHCY) to migraine symptoms like allodynia, photophobia, anxiety, and a higher excitability of meningeal trigeminal afferents. In the present study, the roles of purinergic mechanisms in the homocysteine-induced hyperexcitability of the trigeminal ganglion (TG) system using electrophysiological recordings from the trigeminal nerve, Ca²⁺ imaging of cells isolated from TG, and mast cell staining in meninges were investigated. Experiments were performed using rats with pHHCY born from females fed with a high-methionine-containing diet before and during pregnancy. Firstly, we found that lower concentrations of 4-aminopyridine, a K⁺-channel blocker, were able to induce an increase in the nociceptive activity of trigeminal afferents, supporting the hypothesis of the higher excitability of the trigeminal nerve of rats with pHHCY. Trigeminal afferents of rats with pHHCY were more sensitive to the exogenous application of the nonspecific agonist of purinergic ATP receptors. In neurons and satellite glial cells of TG of rats with pHHCY ATP, ADP (an agonist of metabotropic P2Y receptors) and BzATP (an agonist of ionotropic P2X with especially high potency for the P2X7 receptor) induced larger Ca²⁺ transients. The incubation of TG neurons in homocysteine for 24 h increased the ratio of neurons responding simultaneously to ATP and capsaicin. Moreover, rats with pHHCY exhibit a higher rate of degranulation of mast cells and increased response to the agonist of the P2X7 receptor BzATP application. In addition, higher levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were found in rats with pHHCY. Our results suggest that chronic elevated levels of homocysteine induce the upregulation of ionotropic or metabotropic ATP receptors in neurons, satellite glial cells, and mast cells, which further provide inflammatory conditions and the sensitization of peripheral afferents underlying pain. Full article

Resiniferatoxin (RTX), a potent capsaicin analog, is being investigated as a therapeutic agent for neurogenic conditions, particularly those affecting bladder control. However, the transcriptomic effects of RTX on the urinary bladder remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to characterize the transcriptomic changes in the porcine urinary bladder trigone region removed seven days post-treatment with intravesical RTX administration (500 nmol per animal in 60 mL of 5% aqueous solution of ethyl alcohol). High-throughput sequencing identified 126 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 66 downregulated, 60 upregulated), 5 differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DELs), and 22 other RNAs, collectively involved in 175 gene ontology (GO) processes. Additionally, differential alternative splicing events (DASes) and single nucleotide variants (SNVs) were detected. RTX significantly modulated signaling pathways related to nerve growth and myelination. Changes in genes associated with synaptic plasticity and neuromodulation were observed, particularly within serotoninergic and cholinergic signaling. RTX altered the expression of immune-related genes, particularly those involved in chemokine signaling and immune regulation. Notably, altered gene expression patterns suggest a potential anti-cancer role for RTX. These findings provide new insights into RTX’s therapeutic effects beyond TRPV1 receptor interactions, filling a critical gap in our understanding of its molecular impact on bladder tissue. Full article

Pungent red peppers and chilis are healthy foods and crucial ingredients of modern diets due to their content of bioactive phytochemicals such as carotenoids, tocopherols, capsaicinoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C. The production of pungent peppers with outstanding nutritional properties is influenced by genetic factors and their interaction with the environments where they are cultivated. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of genotype and climate conditions on the response of capsaicinoids and vitamin C. The extracts of pungent materials and vitamin C were separated and qualitatively determined by HPLC alone or hyphenated with mass spectroscopy. Four genotypes were selected and cultivated under traditional agricultural practices in southern Hungary. The yield properties and the contents of capsaicinoids and vitamin C were significantly influenced by genetic factors and, to a high extent, by the interaction between genotype × environment. The highest yield of 2.86 ± 0.59 kg/m² was recorded for the CS variety. The yield was significantly decreased under high precipitation and low air temperature. The highest concentration of capsaicin of 1586–1734 µg/g dwt was found in the BHJ variety. The lowest level of 514 µg/g dwt of capsaicin was determined in the CS variety, in which the content significantly increased to 772 µg/g dwt with the increase in rainfall and decrease in air temperature in the warmer season of 2022. In most cultivars examined, capsaicin content negatively responded to the change of the climate toward higher precipitation and lower temperature except for SZ178, in which the concentration of capsaicinoids stayed insignificantly varied. The amount of vitamin C ranged between 570 and 135 µg/g dwt, with the highest content being in the BHJ and the lowest in the REK variety. In most varieties except the REK, vitamin C positively responded to a high and negatively to the reduced levels of precipitation. In conclusion, the phytochemical components of hot peppers respond differently to climatic factors—such as high rainfall, elevated air temperature, and intense sunlight—depending on the genotype’s ability to adapt to environmental changes. Full article

Ergot alkaloids present in endophyte-infected tall fescue can cause a series of negative effects in exposed cattle. This study evaluated the effectiveness of molasses-based block supplements (MBSs) in alleviating vasoconstriction, which leads to reduced peripheral blood flow, heat stress, and impaired growth performance in cattle. A total of 100 crossbred steers were assigned to five treatment groups: a negative control with no tall fescue seed; a positive control with ergot-infected tall fescue seeds; and three MBS treatments, including a control block, a block containing menthol, and a block containing capsaicin. Blood flow was assessed through ultrasound imaging of the coccygeal artery, while thermal imaging was used to monitor body temperature regulation. Growth performance, feed intake, and blood biomarkers were also measured. Cattle consuming MBS had improved weight gain, greater arterial diameters, and enhanced thermoregulation compared to those without supplements. No significant differences were observed between the different MBS formulations. These results suggest that molasses-based block supplementation can help mitigate heat stress and poor growth performance associated with ergot alkaloid consumption, potentially providing a practical nutritional strategy for cattle producers managing cattle exposed to ergot alkaloids. Full article

Due to environmental pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, and autoimmunity, many individuals frequently encounter skin problems, such as sensitive skin, caused by the activation of the TRPV1 pathway and immune-inflammatory reactions. This study aims to synthesize compounds with soothing effects using β-chitooligosaccharides (COS) derived from marine Sargassum, which is investigated for its regulating inflammatory responses and activating of TRPV1 pathways. Dopamine is used as the hydroxyl donor in this process. COS-diDA, a compound that binds two dopamine amines, is synthesized using Michael additions and Schiff base reactions under alkaline circumstances, with a pH of 8.5. This work investigates the soothing effects of COS-diDA using a HaCaT cell model activated with capsaicin (CAP). ELISA and immunofluorescence experiments provide evidence that COS-diDA efficiently inhibits the activation of the TRPV1 protein in HaCaT cells by reducing its levels when stimulated with CAP. In addition, ELISA analysis demonstrates that COS-diDA reduces the secretion of IL-1α, IL-6, and IL-8 from HaCaT cells stimulated with CAP, indicating an interaction between the TRPV1 protein and interleukins. Additional research on in vitro pain models generated by CAP confirms the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of COS-diDA. The study indicates that COS-diDA exhibits favorable adhesion qualities and possesses anti-inflammatory action, making it a viable candidate for inclusion as an anti-inflammatory component of cosmetic formulations. Full article

Background: Capsaicin, known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, may mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). This study evaluates the efficacy of capsaicin supplementation in reducing delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and enhancing strength and power in collegiate male futsal players. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design was used. Twelve male futsal players participated in three testing sessions: baseline (BL), followed by capsaicin (12 mg) or placebo (PLA), with a 7-day washout period. Participants consumed the supplement 45 min before completing an EIMD protocol of 200 plyometric jumps with a 10% body-weight vest. Metrics including vertical jump height (VJH), pressure pain threshold (PPT), thigh circumference (TCM), and isokinetic and isometric strengths were assessed 48 h post-EIMD. DOMS was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) at baseline and 12, 24, and 48 h post-EIMD. Results: Capsaicin supplementation significantly improved VJH (p = 0.009), PPT (p = 0.004), and reduced TCM (p = 0.015) compared to baseline, with superior performance in PPT and TCM reduction (p < 0.05). Capsaicin also significantly decreased VAS scores for DOMS immediately, 12, 24, and 48 h post-EIMD (p < 0.001) compared to PLA and BL. No significant differences were found in isokinetic and isometric strength metrics (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Acute capsaicin supplementation can mitigate DOMS and enhance performance markers such as VJH and PPT in collegiate futsal players. Its benefits suggest a viable nutritional strategy for recovery and performance optimization in high-intensity sports. Full article

This study assessed the potential of dried Cayenne pepper (CP; Capsicum annuum L.) as a natural additive to rice bran oil (RBO), grape seed oil (GSO), and virgin olive oil (OO). Key analyses included peroxide and acid values, oxidative stability (Rancimat method), the composition of fatty acids (FAs) (GC-FID method), antioxidant activity (AA; DPPH method), and antimicrobial properties (disc diffusion method). Capsaicin and the dihydrocapsaicin contents in CP were quantified (HPLC-DAD method) as 1499.37 ± 3.64 and 1449.04 ± 5.14 mg/kg DW, respectively. Oleic acid (C18:1cis n9) dominated in OO (69.70%), OO-CP (69.73%), and RBO-CP (38.97%), while linoleic acid (C18:2cis n6) prevailed in RBO (41.34%), GSO (57.93%), and GSO-CP (58.03%). The addition of CP influenced the FA profile, particularly linoleic acid in OO and RBO, and all FAs in GSO. Peroxide and acid values increased significantly in RBO and GSO upon CP addition, but induction times remained unaffected. The strongest AA (77.00 ± 0.13%) was observed in OO-CP. Cayenne pepper significantly enhanced the antioxidant profiles of all oils compared to the counterparts. However, the antimicrobial activity was weak (≤5.0 mm inhibition zones) against tested microorganisms. These findings support CP as a functional additive for enhancing the nutritional and functional properties of gourmet oils, while highlighting the need for further optimization to improve stability and bioactivity. Full article

Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic, creating an increased burden of weight-related diseases and straining healthcare systems worldwide. While the fundamental principle of energy balance—caloric intake versus expenditure—remains central to weight regulation, real-world outcomes often deviate from simplistic predictions due to a multitude of physiological and environmental factors. Genetic predispositions, variations in basal metabolic rates, adaptive thermogenesis, physical activity, and nutrient losses via fecal and urinary excretion contribute to interindividual differences in energy homeostasis. Additionally, factors such as meal timing, macronutrient composition, gut microbiota dynamics, and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) further modulate energy utilization and metabolic efficiency. This Perspective explores key physiological determinants of the energy balance, while also highlighting the clinical significance of thrifty versus spendthrifty metabolic phenotypes. Key strategies for individualized weight management include precision calorimetry, circadian-aligned meal timing, the use of protein- and whole food diets to enhance DIT, and increases in non-exercise activity, as well as mild cold exposure and the use of thermogenic agents (e.g., capsaicin-like compounds) to stimulate brown adipose tissue activity. A comprehensive, personalized approach to obesity management that moves beyond restrictive caloric models is essential to achieving sustainable weight control and improving long-term metabolic health. Integrating these multifactorial insights into clinical practice will enhance obesity treatment strategies, fostering more effective and enduring interventions. Full article