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Sprouted wheat wholemeal was reported to enhance the nutritional and sensory properties of cereal products, but few human studies exist. The effect of blending 50 % sprouted wheat wholemeal in a bread recipe on the postprandial glycemic and satiety responses, and sensory-related sensations was investigated in this randomized crossover human study with 12 healthy participants. Capillary blood samples were collected and glycemic response was determined at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120 min. Satiety visual analogue scales were given every 30 min. While substituting bread wheat flour with sprouted wheat wholemeal significantly increased the α-amylase activity in the dough (p 0.05). Likewise, participant overall acceptability was not adversely affected. Sprouted wheat wholemeal can be used as a functional ingredient in breadmaking, although it did not, in this study, significantly affect digestibility parameters.

This study aimed to screen peptides with antihypertensive effects from the α-chymotrypsin hydrolysate of Sebastes schlegelii (SSA). SSA demonstrated ACE inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.062 ± 0.001 mg/mL. The SSA significantly reduced body weight and systolic blood pressure in the SHR spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) model and improved hypertension-induced vasopathy and interstitial fibrosis in heart and vascular tissues, indicating the presence of ACE inhibitory peptides contributing to cardiovascular health. Peptide composition analysis identified fractions of SSA with potent ACE inhibitory activity, particularly those with molecular weights of 5 kDa or less. Further evaluation of ACE activity using Sephadex G-10 separated SSA fractions led to the amino acid sequence analysis of the most effective fraction (SSA-F1). Molecular docking simulations predicted that peptides from SSA-F1 inhibit ACE activity by binding to its active sites. This research suggests the potential of peptides from S. schlegelii for clinical hypertension treatment.

Diet-induced metabolic load is associated with excess body weight and liver steatosis. Here, selected microalgae, known to contain bioactive nutrients, were studied for beneficial metabolic effects in a mouse model of liver steatosis. Adult mice (8 per group) were fed either a Western-style diet (WSD) or a control diet +/− 15 % of the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (CV), Nannochloropsis oceanica (NO), or Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PT) for 12 weeks. We evaluated liver fat content and liver damage, as well as fecal microbiota and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation. NO supplementation to a WSD reduced the grade of liver steatosis (from 17 % to 4.7 %, p

Sweet cherry intake affects oxidative stress and hepatic lipid metabolism, depending on composition, mainly (poly)phenol profile and daylight length. Thyroid hormones (TH) respond to daylight changes and regulate the hepatic glucose metabolism. This study investigated whether cherries with different phenolic hallmarks exhibit seasonal responses to TH and hepatic glucose metabolism. Fischer 344 rats fed a standard diet were chronically exposed to L6 (6 h light), L12 (12 h light), and L18 (18 h light) photoperiods and were supplemented with two sweet cherries (Ch1 and Ch2). Serum TH levels and glucose metabolism-related metabolites were affected by both the cherry composition and photoperiod. Thus, Ch1 and Ch2 reduced serum T3 levels in L6, whereas Ch2 increased it in L18, nullifying the photoperiod effect. Moreover, although photoperiod was the main factor affecting the hepatic expression of gluconeogenesis-related genes, Ch1 exerted effects mainly on L6 photoperiod and Ch2 on L18, tending to cancel out the photoperiod effects.

Astaxanthin (ATX), a naturally occurring carotenoid, exhibits notable neuroprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and regulation of neurotrophic factors. This study investigates the fundamental processes by which astaxanthin facilitates the repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Our experiments with in vivo and in vitro models reveal that astaxanthin treatment induces a shift from M1 to M2 microglial polarization and attenuates the inflammatory response in Schwann cells. However, these beneficial effects are negated by the inhibition of the STAT6-PPARγ pathway. Furthermore, astaxanthin administration mitigated gastrocnemius muscle atrophy in rats with peripheral nerve injuries and enhanced axonal regeneration and myelination. Notably, an increase in neovascularization was also observed post-treatment. In summary, astaxanthin significantly promotes nerve regeneration following peripheral nerve injury, highlighting its potential therapeutic value and underscoring the need for further clinical investigations.

Pectin, a soluble fiber, can induce elongation of the intestinal villi. However, the relationship between pectin-induced villus elongation and nutrient absorption remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated whether pectin could mitigate malnutrition by enhancing nutrient absorption. We specifically utilized Yuzu pectin side chains, which were chosen for their potential in preventing nutrient absorption inhibition, to examine their effects on elongation of the villus in protein-deficient, mildly malnourished mice. These side chains exerted contrasting effects on the spleen and liver, both of which atrophied owing to a low-protein diet, preventing a decrease in spleen weight. The administration of side chains suppressed liver lipid accumulation; however, triglyceride and cholesterol levels were increased. Although these side chains extended the jejunal villi, they could not completely alleviate malnutrition. This study establishes a crucial foundation for further elucidating the physiological relevance of the pectin-induced morphological alterations in the small intestinal villus and advancing its practical applications.

Diabetic liver injury (DLI) is a complication that impairs the quality of life of diabetic patients. Ginsenoside Rg1 is hepatoprotective, but its role and mechanism in diabetic liver injury need further investigation. Therefore, using in vivo experiments, we investigated the implication of ginsenoside Rg1 on hepatic lipid deposition, hepatic injury, hepatic fibrosis, and associated inflammation using a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mouse model. We observed that Rg1 significantly ameliorated hepatic lipid deposition and hepatic fibrosis in T2DM mice. Meanwhile, Rg1 significantly reduced the expression of CD36, p-PLC, CaN, and NFAT2 and inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Molecular docking results indicated that Rg1 binds well to PLC. In vitro experiments also demonstrated that Rg1 can inhibit calcium overload by regulating PA + HG-induced PLC activation in HepG2 cells. These results suggest that Rg1 treatment prevents T2DM-induced liver injury by inhibiting hepatic lipid deposition and the PLC-NFAT2-NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) derived from omega-3 fatty acids have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for managing inflammatory diseases. This comprehensive review examines the role of SPMs in inflammation resolution and tissue repair across various disease conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes, and cancer. We discuss the diverse metabolic pathways involved in the biosynthesis of SPMs, their mechanisms of action, and their effects on immune cell function and inflammatory signaling pathways. Clinical trials and preclinical studies demonstrating the efficacy of SPMs in reducing inflammation and improving patient outcomes are summarized. Therapeutic dosages of SPMs are compared to their precursors. Challenges associated with determining optimal dosages, factors influencing metabolic efficiency, and the development of nanoparticle drug delivery systems for SPMs are also discussed. Despite the progress made, further research is needed to optimize SPM therapies and address remaining challenges for clinical translation.

The prevalence of obesity is increasing globally, and dietary fiber supplementation can aid in its treatment. This 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the effect of Dyne-neoagarooligosaccharides (Dyne-NAOs), hydrolyzed from agar via β-agarase DagA, in overweight or obese adults. Eighty participants were randomly assigned using block randomization (1:1, block size 4) to receive either 15 g of Dyne-NAOs daily or a placebo (maltodextrin). After the intervention, body fat mass (−1.07 kg vs. −0.05 kg; p = 0.015) and body fat percentage (−1.04 % vs. −0.08 %; p = 0.018) were significantly lower in the NAO group than in the placebo group. The Constipation Scoring System (−1.42 vs. −0.06; p = 0.010) and Patient Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (−3.28 vs. −0.42; p = 0.021), used to assess changes in bowel movements, also showed significant between-group differences. These findings suggest that Dyne-NAOs could be a promising anti-obesity dietary fiber supplement.

Oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage is the main cause of neurodegenerative diseases, which is characterized by cognitive impairment. We selected a high-content natural alkaloid, trigonelline, from daily vegetables eggplants. The results showed that eggplants were rich in trigonelline. It has antioxidant and anticancer effects, but there is limited research on neurodegenerative diseases. An in vitro neuronal injury model was established using PC12 cells damaged by H2O2 to explore neuroprotective effect of trigonelline. An aging model was established in vivo by injecting D-galactose into mice for 6 weeks. Trigonelline have been found to improve cognitive impairment by improving brain-damage, enhancing antioxidant system activity in mice, regulating the activity of ChAT and AChE to maintain the balance of cholinergic system. The experimental results indicate that trigonelline has good neuroprotective effects, providing a reference for the development of functional foods made from eggplant and trigonelline, as well as prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative disease in older adults. Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM) comprises bioactive ingredients known to relieve the symptoms of KOA, such as glycosaminoglycans, and has been shown by preclinical studies to be effective in the treatment of KOA. Participants received either NEM (n = 49) or a placebo product (n = 50). After 12 weeks of NEM intake, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score, visual analog scale pain score, and World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF score (physical health, social relationship score) significantly improved compared to those in the placebo group (p

A polysaccharide (PSMP2) was isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza, and its sulfated derivative (PSMP2-S) was synthesized. The chemical structures of PSMP2 and PSMP2-S were analyzed by various chemical analysis methods and instrumental analysis methods. The ultrastructures and thermal stability were further investigated. In addition, PSMP2 and PSMP2-S had strong immunomodulatory activity and could regulate cytokines (interleukin-2, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α), increased the content of short chain fatty acids and effectively reduced the relative abundance of Bacteroides and increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes, significantly increase Muribaculaceae and Lactobacillaceae, and inhibit Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae, improve the composition of gut microbiota. This study showed that PSMP2 and PSMP2-S might be used as potential natural immune regulators and gut microbiota regulators, and had great development value in the field of food and medicine.

Accumulating evidence suggests that M2-polarized tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a crucial role in cancer progression, making them a promising target for therapy. This study explored the molecular mechanisms by which Platycodon grandiflorum regulates M2 polarization of TAMs to exert anti-tumor effects. UPLC-MS identified the chemical composition and blood-absorbed components. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot detected TAM infiltration and proliferation pathways, while q-RT-PCR measured M2 macrophage marker expression. Our findings showed that PR reduces melanoma weight, inhibits the mTOR pathway, and suppresses M2-polarized macrophages. PR downregulates JAK2 and p-STAT3, promotes JAK2 degradation, and enhances ubiquitination. Molecular docking indicated strong affinities between Platycodin D components and JAK2/STAT3, highlighting PR’s potential in regulating TAMs and offering new clinical insights.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of global mortality, with dyslipidemia recognized as a significant risk factor. Dyslipidemia, characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG), is associated with an increased lifetime risk of CVD. Although alfalfa’s cholesterol-lowering effects have been demonstrated in animal models, clinical trial data supporting its efficacy in human dyslipidemia treatment are limited. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from September 20, 2021, to January 12, 2023, involving patients diagnosed with dyslipidemia. Approved by the China Ethics Committee of Registering Clinical Trials, the study included multiple sites in China. Eligible participants were adults aged 18 years or older, meeting criteria from the Chinese Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Adult Blood Lipid Disorders. Participants were randomly assigned to either a health education-only group or a combined alfalfa powder supplementation and health education group for a three-month intervention period. Results: A total of 160 eligible patients were enrolled and randomized into two groups: the Alfalfa group (n = 80) and the Education group (n = 80). The intervention resulted in significant improvements in key lipid parameters in the Alfalfa group, including reductions in TC, LDL-C, and Apo A1 levels. Although changes in HDL-C levels were not significantly different between the groups, the Alfalfa group exhibited a larger increase. Serum lipid metabolomics analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) indicated that the combined intervention did not significantly alter the overall blood lipid metabolome but identified fifteen regulated differential metabolites, with the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway significantly affecting lipid metabolism levels. Conclusion: Supplementation with alfalfa powder combined with health education significantly reduced TC, LDL-C, and Apo A1 levels in patients with dyslipidemia. KEGG pathway analysis suggests an association between the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway and dyslipidemia. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Cell-surface proteins (CSPs) have been employed extensively in cancer research as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as targets for the creation of anticancer drugs. Few attempts have been made so far to describe the surfaceome of breast cancer (BC) patients. For enabling effective BC therapy, the identification of novel druggable biomarkers is an earnest need. In this study, publicly available databases are utilised to identify CSPs associated with BC. We also predict significantly altered receptor-ligand interactions in BC to determine significant CSPs and druggable polyphenols (DPs) with therapeutic potential to combat the disease using systems biology methods. Here, polyphenols are assessed for their druggable properties and then initially docked with CSPs. Finally, five DPs are docked and simulated against the nine significant CSPs identified in BC. The preliminary result of the analysis reports E2F8-Sesamolin to be the best-docked protein-ligand complex with a binding energy of −51.160 ± 18.054 Kcal/mol which was then simulated and compared with Olaparib, an approved drug for BC treatment that came out to be −44.441 ± 18.127 Kcal/mol. MD simulation revealed that a Sesamolin formed more H-bonds, providing a more stable and compact protein-ligand complex with E2F8 as compared to Olaparib. The result was also supported by calculating solvent-accessible surface area and analyzing the radius of gyration and MM-PBSA binding energies. Expression, oncoprint, survival and functional enrichment profiles of the significant CSPs are also analyzed to gain deeper insight into the significant CSPs and their role in BC tumorigenesis. Thus, our findings suggest a potential role of Sesamolin that can further be studied in detail for BC therapeutics, which was found to target the E2F8, a CSP receptor in a stable manner. The results can be validated in an experimental setup to explore the potential therapeutic efficacy of Sesamolin in targeting various CSPs.

Background: Previous research showed that plant-based diets were correlated with male-productive health, but evidence regarding the association of this diet with teratozoospermia remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between plant-based diets and teratozoospermia odds. Methods: We conducted a case-control study involving 146 patients with teratozoospermia and 581 healthy controls in the infertility clinics of the Center for Reproductive Medicine during June and December 2020. To evaluate dietary data for the included participants, a validated food frequency questionnaire was utilized. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the development of teratozoospermia related to the plant-based diets were employed using unconditional logistic regression. Results: Higher adherence to the overall plant-based diet index (PDI) was inversely associated with the odds of teratozoospermia (OR T3 vs. T1 = 0.56; 95 % CI = 0.33–0.94). Additionally, greater adherence to the healthful PDI (hPDI) was correlated with a lower odds of teratozoospermia (OR T3 vs. T1 = 0.56; 95 % CI = 0.34–0.90), whereas the null association of unhealthful PDI (uPDI) with teratozoospermia was observed (OR T3 vs. T1 = 1.15; 95 % CI = 0.70–1.91). Interestingly, uPDI was positively associated with the odds of teratozoospermia among men with age

Pomegranate, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage in the Middle East and its abundant polyphenols, holds promise as a potent dietary supplement. Beyond its traditional use, pomegranate supplementation has gained attention for its potential to alleviate physiological stressors and enhance overall health. However, its impact on exercise performance and recovery remains a subject of debate, marked by conflicting study outcomes. This comprehensive study investigates the effects of pomegranate supplementation on various physiological parameters in sportsmen, athletes, and healthy individuals. Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a meticulous literature review encompassed multiple databases, yielding 4401 articles. From these, 23 studies involving 507 participants met stringent inclusion criteria, showcasing a broad spectrum of pomegranate dosages and methodologies. Findings suggest that pomegranate supplementation may significantly benefit health markers and exercise performance. Meta-analysis underscored notable improvements in markers such as aspartate transaminase (AST), high density lipoprotein (HDL), malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between pomegranate and placebo groups. Most of the studies suggested using 250 ml of pomegranate juice daily for at least one week to get its beneficial effects. Notably, enhancements in antioxidant status and cardiovascular health hint at potential advantages for exercise-related outcomes, including accelerated muscle recovery, reduced soreness, and enhanced endurance during prolonged sessions. In conclusion, pomegranate emerges as a compelling natural alternative to synthetic supplements for athletes and sports enthusiasts aiming to optimize physical performance and overall well-being. Nonetheless, further exploration is essential to unravel its mechanisms fully, urging standardized protocols and larger-scale studies to validate and refine these promising findings.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a diffuse inflammatory lung injury caused by various internal and external causal elements. In addition to its medical benefits, PGD can also be used to steep tea, which has the effect of lung-moistening and expectotant, and has been demonstrated to exert a protective effect against ALI. However, its exact mechanism of action is unknown. C57BL/6 mice were divided into different groups to study the therapeutic effects of different doses of PGD and dexamethasone. The chemical composition of PGD was analyzed using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and network pharmacology was used to identify its active components and pathways. In vitro molecular docking and in vivo pharmacodynamic experiments were conducted to further investigate its mechanism of action. In vivo experiments demonstrated that PGD mitigated histopathological alterations, reduced the total leukocyte count, total protein concentration, and suppressed levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in lung tissue. Additionally, PGD decreased levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in BALF, as well as levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in serum. Network pharmacology analysis revealed GAPDH, TP53, AKT1, ALB, TNF, IL-6, VEGFA, EGFR, STAT3, and JUN as core targets, with the key pathways identified as PI3K/AKT and NF-κB. Additional western blotting and qPCR further confirmed that PGD significantly reduced the ratios of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, and p-NF-κB/NF-κB, as well as the mRNA levels of PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB. PGD shows promise in alleviating ALI by modulating the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting its potential as a targeted therapeutic approach for LPS-induced ALI.

Constipation, a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements and associated abdominal discomfort, poses a significant health concern. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological impact and molecular mechanism of fermented rice extract (FRE). FRE significantly increased fecal number, fecal water content and gastrointestinal transit rate in loperamide-mediated rats. Abnormalities in morphology of colon tissues, along with alterations in antioxidant contents were markedly reversed by FRE. Furthermore, the treatment of constipated rats with FRE accelerated intestinal motility, fortified gut barrier protection, and improved water and salt metabolism in the intestinal tract. Additionally, FRE robustly attenuated inflammation expression, along with suppressing MAPKs phosphorylation in colon tissues of rats. In conclusion, FRE treatment alleviated loperamide-induced constipation by reducing intestinal transit time, modulating oxidative stress and mitigating inflammatory responses. This study underscores FRE as a promising candidate for the management of constipation, emphasizing its potential in regulating oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways.

Royal jelly (RJ) is rich in various nutrients, including proteins and amino acids. RJ consumption improves sexual and urinary function in postmenopausal women, possibly owing to its hormone-like effects. Currently, hormone regulation and assisted reproductive technologies are widely used to treat thin endometria; however, high doses of these drugs can add to liver burden. In this study, RJ proteins and fatty acids were isolated, and their therapeutic effects on thin endometria were investigated in vivo and in vitro to verify their hormone-like regulatory effects. The results showed that RJ and its extracts could regulate endometrial receptivity-related factor expression levels in rats with a thin endometrium, accelerate MCF-7 cell apoptosis, and increase estrogen receptor expression in MCF-7 cells wherein. The estrogen-like effects of RJ and the fatty acids may be the main contributors. RJ may be a potential natural hormone replacement therapy.

Postexercise recovery is a crucial period, especially in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Supplementation with nutraceutical substances has been explored due to its potential cardioprotective effects. We aimed to investigate the impact of isolated and combined ingestion of beetroot extract and resveratrol on immediate postexercise recovery. Individuals with CVD were subjected to 4 experimental protocols consisting of 30 min of aerobic exercise. Before exercise, the subjects consumed 500 mg of starch, 500 mg of beetroot extract, 500 mg of resveratrol or both substances. Heart rate recovery (HRR), heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure (BP) responses were evaluated. No significant differences in the HRR were detected (p = 0.719) in the RMSSD30 index (p = 0.671) or BP responses (systolic BP − p = 0.703, diastolic BP − p = 0.638) between protocols. Supplementation with beetroot extract and/or resveratrol did not promote significant changes in immediate post-exercise recovery.Registration number - clinicaltrials.gov: NCT06095635

Zeaxanthin, an oxygenated form of carotenoid, is a well-known natural pigment and an anti-oxidant agent. Its anti-oxidant function has been shown in many studies, and it has shown no significant signs of toxicity, making it safe for therapeutic use against biologicals, chemicals, and radiation-induced toxicities. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the protective and antidotal effectiveness of zeaxanthin in mitigating the toxic effects generated by biological agents, chemical substances, natural toxins, and radiation exposure. Many studies suggest the protective effects of zeaxanthin against chemical, natural, and radiation-induced toxicities. Zeaxanthin can decrease apoptosis and inflammation, oxidative stress, pathological changes, and other effects of toxins. Besides an anti-oxidant agent, zeaxanthin can be used against many other toxicities and toxins. However, prior to utilizing zeaxanthin as a therapeutic agent for various disorders, it is imperative to conduct more clinical trials and human investigations.

Background: Microbiota manipulation through preoperative probiotic supplementation to reduce surgical site infection has shown promising results in recent years. However, the changes in gut microbiota resulting from this manipulation remain unclear. In eastern Asia, Clostridium butyricum (CBM588) has been demonstrated to have antimicrobial ability. This study aimed to explore postoperative outcomes associated with microbiota changes in a murine colonic anastomosis model. Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups. All mice, including group A as the control, received standard oral neomycin and metronidazole before surgery. Group B received CBM588 before surgery. Group C received the antibiotic cocktail therapy before surgery. Group D received the antibiotic cocktail therapy followed by CBM588 supplementation before surgery. A 16S rRNA amplicon with SMS was used to show the impact of different treatments on the murine gut microbiota. Results: The implementation of the antibiotic cocktail therapy resulted in improved postoperative performance, significantly better anastomotic healing scores, and reduced areas of anastomotic necrosis in both group C and D, but particularly prominently in group D. Metagenomic analysis revealed that group D was enriched with the order Clostridiales, the family Clostridiaceae, and the genus Clostridium, with low bacterial diversity and distinct bacterial composition. Conclusions: A preoperative antibiotic cocktail therapy followed by CBM588 supplementation modulates bacterial diversity and composition, resulting in an increased percentage of Clostridiaceae in a murine colonic anastomosis model. The associated outcomes include lower intra-abdominal adhesion scores, improved postoperative performance, improved anastomotic healing scores, and reduced areas of anastomotic necrosis.

This study investigates the potential of novel probiotic strains, a 1:1 mix of Bifidobacterium longum RAPO and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LRCC5264, to alleviate atopic dermatitis (AD). In vitro, the probiotics at 1 × 106 CFU/mL increased anti-inflammatory (interleukin-6; IL6) and reduced pro-inflammatory (IL9) cytokine expression in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In an 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced AD mouse model, treatment with the probiotics (1 × 106 CFU/day) for eight weeks exhibited significant reductions in dermatitis score, plasma immunoglobulin E, transepidermal water loss, and mRNA expression of ceramidase in the skin. Furthermore, the probiotic consumption suppressed Il9 mRNA expression in the skin and reduced eotaxin-1, eosinophil infiltration, and epidermal thickness. Gut microbiota analysis revealed probiotic consumption increased relative abundances of Alistipes and Ruminococcaceae_uncultured, with a negative association with immune responses and skin barrier functions. These results demonstrate the potential of the probiotic strains in modulating immune responses and the gut microbiota, suggesting their role as a dietary intervention strategy for managing AD.

Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and fat are considered potential candidates to satisfy the nutritional demands of the increasing number of older patients requiring both dysphagia rehabilitation and nutritional therapy. Crystalline oil and fat (COF) is a unique material comprising MCT. In this study, we aimed to investigate the ways in which COF produces a cold sensation in the mouth, and assessed its facilitatory effect on swallowing initiation through two experiments. The first experiment, involving 27 participants, revealed that COF significantly reduced the onset latency of cold sensation and prolonged its duration compared to that of the control. The second experiment, involving 20 participants, revealed that the number of swallows significantly increased after swallowing COF. Our study confirms that the application of COF to the tongue induces a cold sensation and facilitates voluntary swallowing initiation. Therefore, COF holds great potential for aiding dysphagic patients.

Surgical tissue reconstruction often uses random skin flaps, but ischemic necrosis at the distal end remains a problem. Hydroxytyrosol, a phenolic compound from olive oil, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. This study investigated whether hydroxytyrosol could promote flap survival and its underlying mechanisms using a mouse model with random skin flaps. Flap necrosis was assessed seven days after surgery, with angiogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy evaluated in flap specimens. Compared to controls, the hydroxytyrosol-treated group showed reduced necrotic areas and edema. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting revealed decreased oxidative stress and apoptosis, with increased angiogenesis. Laser Doppler imaging confirmed enhanced angiogenesis with hydroxytyrosol treatment. The reversal of hydroxytyrosol’s effects by 3-methyladenine underscores autophagy’s role, mediated by SIRT1 activation. Our research indicates that hydroxytyrosol enhances random skin flap survival by activating SIRT1-mediated autophagy.

In this work, ginsenoside CK was confirmed as an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, with an IC50 value of 32.58 ± 0.09 μM. Molecular docking showed that ginsenoside CK could fit into EGFR binding pocket, thereby acting as a ligand for EGFR. Ginsenoside CK inhibited proliferation of A549 cells as well as induced its apoptosis via downregulating anti-apoptotic factors and upregulating apoptosis induction factors. Ginsenoside CK alone and combined with gefitinib inhibited the tumor progression of A549 lung cancer xenografts in BALB/c nude mice. ELISA assay showed that ginsenoside CK combined with gefitinib alleviated the inflammatory response by suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating better inhibitory effects than ginsenoside CK or gefitinib alone. This work further confirmed that ginsenoside CK regulated the EGFR/MAPK/ERK signaling both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, ginsenoside CK can exhibit the anti-lung cancer effect via acting as an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

The leaves of Metapanax delavayi shrub have been widely used in Chinese traditional diet to prepare tea-like beverages for alleviating inflammation. This study aimed to identify phytochemical components of M. delavayi leaf extract (MDE), and assess their anti-inflammation effects. The results showed that of the 101 compounds identified in the MDE, 96 were assessed as potentially anti-inflammatory based on network pharmacology analysis. The MAPK signaling pathway was surmised as the major anti-inflammatory pathway of action. The MDE enhanced the viability of the RAW264.7 cells, significantly inhibiting the overproduction of inflammatory factors (NO, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE2), relative mRNA expression of TNF-α, iNOS, and COX-2, as well as several proteins (p-P38, p-ERK, p-JNK, iNOS, and COX-2) in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 cells, meanwhile TGF-β1 production was increased. The key residues involved in binding to the top 10 leaf metabolites were Lys53, Thr179, Asp177, Glu147, and Pro174, in p-P38, p-ERK, p-JNK proteins. Molecular dynamic simulations demonstrated that predominantly three phosphorylated proteins formed stable and tightly bound complexes with certain metabolites of MDE.

Chemically protected sodium butyrate (CSB) is a novel form of sodium butyrate. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CSB supplementation on the gut mucosal immune, gut microbiota, and SCFAs in piglets. Results showed that supplementation with 2000 mg/kg (high CSB, HCSB) improved the average daily gain by 18.5 %, while supplementation with 1000 mg/kg (low CSB, LCSB) improved it by 6.9 %. qPCR results indicated HCSB treatment dramatically upregulated the mRNA expression levels of IL-10 by 47.1 %, CAT by 17.4 %, SOD1 by 48.2 %, and Claudin-1 by 50 %. Additionally, the SCFAs-producing bacteria Parabacteroides and Eubacterium coprostanoligenes were increased by HCSB supplementation. The levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, valeric acid, and isovaleric acid were significantly enhanced in the jejunal, duodenal, cecal, and colonic chyme of piglets by HCSB supplementation. Collectively, CSB supplementation improves anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities potentially through modulating gut microbiota and SCFAs in piglets.

Chinese herbal tea is a beverage made of one or more kinds of traditional Chinese medicines or herbs, which is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine culture and a Chinese intangible cultural heritage. It has long been utilized for beneficial intentions in many national areas. Drinking herbal tea is popular in most provinces and cities in China, such as Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian, and it is also produced in Japan, the United States, Europe, Southeast Asia, and other regions, and gradually expand to the world. Herbal tea contains flavonoids, organic acids, alkaloids, polysaccharides and glycosides, etc., which supply herbal tea with anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-tumor, anti-aging and hepatoprotective effects. With the continuous expansion of the herbal tea market, the efficacy and safety of herbal tea has garnered great attention. This article reviews the research progress of chemical composition, pharmacological activity, and security of herbal tea in China.

Insomnia, affecting the quality of life of millions globally, necessitates urgent and effective treatment strategies. This study conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare traditional and novel treatment methods in a cohort of 60 insomnia patients. Sleep quality and symptoms were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep Scale (DBAS). Additionally, transcranial Doppler (TCD) technology was employed to measure cerebral hemodynamic parameters. We divided the patients into two groups for insomnia treatment: (1) Control group: oral administration of zopiclone tablets; (2) Treatment group: oral administration of WuMei Decoction. The findings revealed that novel treatment approaches significantly improved sleep quality, disturbances, daytime functionality, and cerebral hemodynamic indicators. Furthermore, identifying 220 potential target genes through systems biology approaches offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms of insomnia and opportunities for drug development.

Oxidative stress is vital in gastrointestinal diseases, but how lactic acid bacteria protect human gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS) is unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ZJ316 (L. plantarum ZJ316) for its potential to alleviate oxidative stress in AGS cells and elucidate mechanisms involved. Treatment with L. plantarum ZJ316 and fermentation supernatant (ZJ316 FS) bolstered cell viability under hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress, boosting antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) while reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Oral probiotics also alleviated oxidative damage from D-galactose in mice. Additionally, L. plantarum ZJ316 and ZJ316 FS alleviated H2O2-induced inflammation and apoptosis by modulating the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic factors. However, the protective effect was hindered when pretreated with the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. These findings suggest that L. plantarum ZJ316 and fermentation supernatant alleviate oxidative damage by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, showing promise in development of antioxidant functional foods.

Lutein is a carotenoid that humans obtain primarily from green-leafy vegetables. However, due to generally low consumption of these foods, this bioactive is not sufficiently consumed. Therefore, there is growing interest in developing lutein-fortified foods to provide an additional source of lutein supplementation. In this study, we developed a lutein-fortified yoghurt and conducted a 72-hour single-dose bioavailability study in human subjects. Lutein remained stable in the yoghurt over shelf life at 14.6 mg of lutein per 100 g of yoghurt. Sensory evaluation yielded results similar to a lutein-free yoghurt. In the bioavailability study, consuming 100 g of lutein-fortified yoghurt significantly increased the average serum concentration of lutein by 1946.86 ± 1514.72 h μg·L−1 in human subjects, following a typical pharmacokinetic curve of absorption and decline. These findings confirm that our lutein-fortified yoghurt is suitable for commercial use and effectively enhances people’s serum lutein levels.

Atherosclerosis is characterized by accumulation of lipid that triggers arterial inflammation. This study aims to investigate the protective effect of alfalfa flavonoid extract (AFE) on HUVEC cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and rats fed with high-fat diet (HFD). AFE reduced the expression of proinflammatory factors (COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and inhibited activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways. AFE alleviated vascular endothelial lesions by reducing HFD-enhanced levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein but increased high-density lipoprotein. Mechanically, AFE ameliorated HFD-enhanced liver steatosis through downregulating gene expression for lipid biosynthesis (SREBP2, HMGCR and FASN) and lipid uptake (LDLR), and through upregulating CYP7A1 expression for lipid catabolism and excretion. These data suggest that AFE possesses the anti-atherosclerotic potential through controlling inflammation, hyperlipidemia and lipid metabolism, and can be used as a functional food additive to benefit patients with atherosclerosis.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of L-theanine in regulating the intestinal antioxidant of weaned piglets and its underlying mechanism. We found that L-theanine increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the level of GSH, while decreased the MDA content of weaned piglet jejunum mucosa and H2O2-induced IPEC-J2 cells. In addition, the mRNA expression of SOD1, SOD2, GPx1, CAT, HO-1 and NQO1 was also significantly increased in jejunum mucosa and H2O2-induced IPEC-J2 cells by L-theanine treatment. Furthermore, L-theanine promoted the nuclear Nrf2 expression and decreased the keap1 expression. However, blocking of Nrf2 signaling by ML385 (the Nrf2 inhibitor) repressed the promoting effects of L-theanine on the activities of antioxidative enzymes and the expression of antioxidant related genes, while increased the MDA content and keap1 expression in IPEC-J2 cells. These data provided the first evidence that L-theanine improved intestinal antioxidant ability of weaned piglets by activating Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Calcium deficiency is considered widespread globally, and discovering calcium with high bioavailability is one of the keys to solving calcium deficiency. This study prepared a calcium delivery system with chitosan and soy peptide and investigated its characteristics, ability to promote calcium absorption, and effects on bone health. The experiment results reveal that chitosan encapsulates soybean peptide–calcium (COS–SPs–Ca) with carboxyl oxygen atoms, amino nitrogen atoms, and phosphate ions, which has a slow-release effect in simulated gastrointestinal digestion. In calcium-deficient rats, COS–SPs–Ca has beneficial effects on serum biochemical parameters, bone biomechanics, and bone microarchitecture, and significantly up-regulated the gene expression of TRPV5, TRPV6, PepT1, and Calbindin-D9k in the small intestine. These results suggest that COS–SPs–Ca is a promising calcium supplement.

Hepatotoxicity is an significant side effect of doxorubicin (DOX), while astaxanthin (ASX) has the anti-liver injury biological functions. In this study, we utilized in vivo and in vitro methods to investigate the protective effect of ASX against DOX-induced hepatotoxicity and elucidate its potential mechanism. Our researchers measured liver injury indicators and the expression of ferroptosis-related protein (transferrin receptor 1 (TFRC), ferroportin 1 (FPN1), ferritin light chain (FTL), ferritin heavy chain-1 (FTH1), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11)) in rats and HepG2 cells. We found that ASX could effectively reduce ferroptosis level and relieve a range of DOX-caused manifestations of liver injury, including inflammation and oxidative damage. ASX may play the same role as ferroptosis inhibitor, Fer-1 and DFP, in this process. The findings demonstrated that the intervention with ASX ameliorated the DOX-induced liver injury by mitigating the DOX-induced ferroptosis through inhibiting iron accumulation.

The escalating prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), driven by inadequate dietary habits and metabolic imbalances, underscores the urgent need for effective dietary interventions. This study investigated the potential of 80 % peanut diacylglycerol (DAG) as a functional lipid component in preventing NAFLD and associated intestinal microenvironment based on a high-cholesterol diet (HCD)-induced zebrafish model. We first found that the zebrafish fatty liver model shared multiple similar pathways like lipid-induced atherosclerosis, insulin resistance with NAFLD patient in terms of lipid metabolism. Employing larvae and grown zebrafish, we aimed to elucidate the preventive and alleviating effect of a DAG diet on NAFLD respectively. Results showed that DAG post-intervention significantly decreased hepatic lipid accumulation and diminished intestinal inflammatory in fatty liver zebrafish model. Notably, transcriptomic sequencing illuminated upregulation in genes related to lipid metabolism (e.g., fasn, mogat2, cd36), suggesting that peanut DAG accelerated lipid transportation and fostered a metabolic environment less conducive to NAFLD symptoms. Besides, reduced liver lipid droplets and hepatic inflammatory suggested DAG feeding could also prevent the formation of NAFLD. The study provided compelling evidence supporting the incorporation of DAG into the diet as a strategy for the prevention and management of fatty liver disease, proposing a novel approach to functional food development aimed at combating metabolic diseases.

Although the usual focus is on how n-3 PUFA supplementation affects athletes’ health, questions remain as to whether short-term supplementation affects anaerobic performance and how this type of supplementation is associated with exercise-induced changes in n-6 PUFA content. Physically active young healthy men were assigned to two groups to determine the effect of 21 days of n-3 PUFA supplementation (the study was completed by 9 subjects receiving 3250 mg n-3 PUFA supplement daily, and 15 subjects receiving placebo filled with aqueous solution). Physical performance was measured by double Wingate aerobic test (WAnT). Blood was collected for analysis at four-time points (baseline and 24 h after WAnT, both before and after 21 days of supplementation). The n-3 and n-6 PUFAs were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A significant increase in the n-3 PUFA (140.1 %, p ≤ 0.01) content and decreased dihomo-γ-linolenic (DGLA) (26.5 %, p ≤ 0.01) and adrenic (AdA) (28.3 %, p ≤ 0.01) acid content were observed in the supplementation group compared to the placebo group following supplementation. No exercise-induced changes in PUFA content were observed. Concluding, n-3 PUFA supplementation modified PUFA content in favour of n-3 PUFAs at the expense of some n-6 PUFAs (DGLA and AdA).

The genus Kadsura Kaempf. ex Juss., which belongs to the important medicine food homology family Schisandraceae, is mainly produced in East and Southeast Asia. Most of their roots, stems, leaves, and seeds contain natural bioactive compounds such as lignans and can be used as herbal medicine in Chinese ancient medical works like “Compendium of Materia Medica”. Its fruit is widely used as an antioxidant, tonic, and hepatoprotective. On the basis of literature research, about 12 species of the genus Kadsura have been reported. The most often mentioned species are K. coccinea and K. heteroclita which are widely used in rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, liver injury and other diseases. In addition, more than 230 lignans in genus Kadsura plants were summarized. The mechanism and effect of biological activities such as anti-oxidation, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer were studied. Finally, the development and utilization of genus Kadsura lignans in the areas of preservation, enhancement of drug absorption, potential functional food raw materials, and cosmetics have also been mentioned, indicating that lignans have the potential for a wide range of applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Natural products have long been recognized as valuable sources of bioactive compounds in therapeutic agents. Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is widely distributed and extensively used in Egyptian folk medicine for its antibroncholitic, antispasmodic, carminative, and diuretic properties. However, there is a lack of research on the effects of T. vulgaris seed extract in mitigating obesity-induced iron overload in rats. Given its potent bioactive constituents, this study aimed to investigate the impact of T. vulgaris seed extract on iron overload associated with obesity by evaluating lipid profiles, iron status parameters—including plasma ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), plasma transferrin, transferrin saturation percentage (TS%), and hepcidin gene expression in adipose tissue. About 30 flavonoids were identified in T. vulgaris seed extract using LC-MS. Among these, methoxyflavonoids were the most abundant metabolites. The administration of T. vulgaris seed extract to obese rats resulted in significant reductions in anthropometric features, hepcidin gene expression, cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), TIBC, plasma ferritin, leptin, and iron and copper content in adipose tissue. Moreover, treatment with T. vulgaris extract led to a notable decrease in interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels (76.33 ± 4.31 ng/L and 40.83 ± 1.82 ng/L for low and high doses, respectively) compared to the obese control group (110.83 ± 5.82 ng/L). Conversely, plasma adiponectin levels were significantly increased with T. vulgaris supplementation (123.6 ± 7.9 µg/L and 217.4 ± 6.1 µg/L for low and high doses, respectively) compared to the obese group (54.6 ± 4.9 µg/L). Additionally, adipose tissue zinc levels were significantly elevated in response to T. vulgaris supplementation (2.54 ± 0.20 µg/g and 3.75 ± 0.14 µg/g for low and high doses, respectively) compared to the obese group (1.45 ± 0.23 µg/g). Our findings suggest that T. vulgaris could be a promising novel therapeutic agent for managing obesity-induced iron overload.

The antitumor activity of a fermented juice (called Shaduojin, SDJ) made from sea buckthorn, raspberry, etc. was investigated using CT26 bearing mice. The results showed a dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth in the SDJ groups compared to the model group. The number of CD8+ T and dendritic cells were increased while the Treg cells and monocytes was decreased in both the tumor and spleen in the SDJ groups. The TNF-α and INF-γ increased and the IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 decreased in the SDJ groups. Additionally, there was an increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Firmicutes, Coildextribacter, and Lachnospiraceae) which contribute to intestinal health and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). On the other hand, harmful bacteria (Muribaculaceae and uncultured Bacteroidales) decreased. The SCFA content in the intestine also increased in the SDJ groups. Therefore, it has been showed that SDJ may elicit its effect on preventing colorectal cancer by regulating the immune system and gut microbiota.

A meta-analytical technique was applied to the evaluation of the functionality of collagen peptide health functional food ingredients (n = 6, until Feb. ’23) recognized in Korea for 7 interventions, with a total of 564 participants. The effect size was assessed using the standardized mean difference (SMD), and detailed subgroup analyses were conducted in the presence of heterogeneity. As a result of evaluating functionality, effective results were shown in the test group compared with placebo in terms of skin wrinkles (SMD 0.5), and skin elasticity (SMD > 0.5). R3 and Ra, which are the parameters of average skin roughness measured by the visiometer and the PRIMOS respectively, showed the largest SMD. Skin hydration significantly increased on the cheek site measured by the corneometer, which is predominantly used for the measurement of skin moisture. The scientific evidence for the skin-related functionalities of recognized collagen peptides was confirmed through meta-analytical approaches.

The anti-inflammatory activity of the “Mela Rosa Marchigiana” (MRM) pulp callus ethanol Extract (MRME) was tested in different cellular models including (i) LPS-treated RAW 264.7; (ii) HUVEC exposed to short-term high Glucose (HG, 45 mM) or normal glucose (NG, 5 mM) concentrations; and (iii) HG (30 mN) and LPS-treated U937. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract, Nitric Oxide (NO) production was measured in RAW 264.6 cells, while IL-8, IL-1ß and MCP-1 expressions, along with modulation of some inflammation- or senescence-associated miRNAs (miR-21, miR-126, miR-17 and miR-217) were assessed in HUVECs and/or U937. MRME treatment reduced pro-inflammatory markers amount, suggesting a decreased generalised inflammatory response. Present findings indicate that MRME can contrast senescence- or HG-induced inflammation. Moreover, in HG- and LPS-induced inflammation, MRME reduced U937 monocyte activation by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration and inflammatory markers. Finally, the inhibitory potential of MRME on the digestive enzymes α-glucosidase, α-amylase and lipase activity was investigated. Our results support the idea that MRME has a positive effect on inhibition of endothelial/macrophage dysfunction under HG/senescence inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, the obtained results showed a modest inhibitory power of the extract (IC50 values: 2.98 ± 0.24, 1.77 ± 0.15, and 2.06 ± 0.31 mg/ml, respectively), which, however, could be of some help in decreasing the absorption of glucose and triglycerides.

Specific algal polysaccharides exhibit significant anti-allergic activity. B cell class switch recombination (CSR) is a crucial step in food allergies, however, the role of polysaccharides in regulating CSR remains unclear. To investigate the regulation of B cell CSR by algal polysaccharides, an in vitro IgE-type CSR cell model was used to screen for active algal polysaccharides, and four active polysaccharides were identified. In a food allergy mouse model, Undaria pinnatifida polysaccharides (UPP) and phosphoryl oligosaccharides (POS) suppressed allergic responses and reduced the proliferation of IgE+ B cells. Transcriptome sequencing of B cells identified LCN2 as a potential target of POS, and inhibition of LCN2 blocked the activity of POS on CSR. These findings demonstrated the efficacy of POS in regulating B cell CSR and alleviating allergic responses and revealed the underlying mechanisms. This work provided data and theoretical support for the development of polysaccharide-based functional foods for individuals with allergies.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and a key factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. As a metabolic hepatic damage, there is still a lack of efficient therapy for NAFLD-HCC. Kurarinol (KUR) is a flavanone extracted from the root of Sophora flavescens, and exerts excellent hepatoprotective and lipid-lowering activities. But its potential on NAFLD-HCC still remains unclear, and thus was explored in our present study. Firstly, in vitro experiments revealed that KUR treatments markedly reduced lipid deposition and inflammatory response in hepatocytes under palmitate and oleic acid stimulation (PO) with decreased expression levels of fatty acid synthesis markers including fatty acid synthase (FASN), stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) and sterol receptor element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1). Importantly, the proliferation of HCC cell lines was strongly limited by KUR in a dose-dependent manner. Of note, PO stimulation accelerated the proliferative capacity of HCC cells, whereas being significantly suppressed by KUR. Mechanistically, we found that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its phosphorylation protein expression levels were highly down-regulated in hepatocytes and HCC cell lines under PO stimuli. More importantly, the functions of KUR to restrain lipid accumulation and HCC cell proliferation were diminished upon EGFR overexpression, confirming that EGFR suppression was necessary for KUR to treat NAFLD-HCC. Murine mouse models were finally established by the use of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) with high-fat/high-cholesterol diet (HFHC) feeding to determine the role of KUR in NAFLD-HCC. Oral gavage of KUR efficiently suppressed NAFLD-HCC formation in mice, as evidenced by the decreased tumor number and loading. KUR also ameliorated lipid accumulation, liver dysfunction, fibrosis and HCC cell proliferation in DEN/HFHC-challenged mice, along with decreased EGFR expression. Collectively, KUR may be an effective strategy for NAFLD-HCC prevention via EGFR signaling suppression.

Substantial evidence indicate that Antarctic krill oil (KO) is an effective method for alleviating acute ulcerative colitis (UC). Nevertheless, UC is a chronic disease, and the chronic colitis model is more conducive to simulating its pathological characteristics. The objective of this study was to establish a chronic UC model in C57BL/6 mice and identify the regulatory consequences and feasible mechanisms of KO on chronic UC and its associated depressive-like behaviors. The results showed that KO alleviated the pathological features of UC and depression-like behavior. Further mechanisms suggested that KO significantly suppressed gut-brain inflammation, increased the concentration of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and the expression of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), protected the integrity of the gut barrier and blood–brain barrier. Moreover, KO maintained the equilibrium of the intestinal flora. The findings suggested that KO may be a promising approach for alleviating UC and its concomitant psychiatric disorders.

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of 12 weeks inulin supplementation (10 g/d) on clinical indices and biomarkers of inflammation, gut permeability, and oxidative stress in eighty women with migraine. Before and after the trial, we assessed the migraine index (MI), migraine headache index score (MHIS), headache diary results (HDR), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), zonulin, nitric oxide (NO), and oxidative stress factors. Inulin supplementation improved total antioxidant capacity (284.07 vs. 26.92, P=0.046), and reduced hs-CRP (−0.69 vs. 0.14), NO (−5.65 vs. 2.57) and oxidative stress index levels (−0.21 vs. 0.05) compared to placebo. Moreover, inulin supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in the score of MHIS, MI, and HDR (all P-values