Influences of Glabridin Treatment on Motor Function Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury / Influencia del Tratamiento con Glabridina en la Recuperación de la Función Motora después de una Lesión de la Médula Espinal

SUMMARY: Spinal cord injury (SCI) usually arises from compression due to traffic accidents and falls, resulting in varying degrees of movement, sensory loss, and possible paralysis. Glabridin (Gla) is a natural compound derived from licorice. It significantly affects drug development and medicine because of its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-tumoral, antibacterial, bone protective, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, liver protective, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic properties. Various methods were employed to administer Gla to SCI mice in order to investigate its impact on the recovery of motor function. The mice were allocated into four cohorts using a randomization procedure. In the sham cohort, solely the lamina of vertebral arch was surgically exposed without causing any harm to the spinal cord tissue. Conversely, the injury cohort was subjected to spinal cord tissue damage and received no treatment thereafter. The mice in the remaining two cohorts received a dosage of 40 mg/kg Gla every two days via either intraperitoneal or intrathecal injection for a duration of 42 d following spinal cord injury. We conducted behavioral tests utilizing the Basso Mouse Scale score and gait analysis techniques. Magnetic resonance imaging and hematoxylin and eosin were employed to evaluate scar tissue formation. Systemic inflammation in mice was evaluated by employing an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Gla promoted motor function recovery in mice following SCI and improved the pathological environment in the damaged area. These alterations were more evident in mice subjected to the intrathecal injection method. Intraperitoneal injections appear to be more beneficial for controlling systemic inflammatory responses. Although more intensive studies are required, Gla exhibits promising clinical potential as a cost-effective dietary phytochemical.

La lesión de la médula espinal (LME) generalmente surge de la compresión producto de caídas y accidentes de tránsito, lo que resulta en alteraciones del movimiento, pérdida sensorial y posible parálisis. La Glabridina (Gla) es un compuesto natural derivado del regaliz, constituyéndose en un aporte significativo para el desarrollo de fármacos y la medicina debido a sus propiedades antiinflamatorias, antioxidantes, antitumorales, antibacterianas, osteoprotectoras, cardioprotectoras, neuroprotectoras, hepatoprotectoras, antidiabéticas y contra la obesidad. En el presente trabajo se emplearon varios métodos para administrar Gla a ratones con lesión medular con el fin de investigar su impacto en la recuperación de la función motora. Los ratones fueron distribuidos en cuatro grupos mediante un procedimiento de aleatorización. En el grupo simulado, únicamente se expuso quirúrgicamente la lámina del arco vertebral sin causar ningún daño al tejido de la médula espinal. Por el contrario, el grupo lesionado fue sometido a daño del tejido de la médula espinal, sin recibir tratamiento posterior. Los ratones de los dos grupos restantes recibieron una dosis de 40 mg/kg de Gla cada dos días mediante inyección intraperitoneal o intratecal durante 42 días después de la lesión de la médula espinal. Fueron realizadas pruebas de comportamiento utilizando la puntuación de la escala Basso Mouse y técnicas de análisis de la marcha. Se emplearon imágenes por resonancia magnética y se aplicaron tinciones histológicas (Hematoxilina & Eosina) en muestras para evaluar la formación de tejido cicatricial. La inflamación sistémica en ratones se evaluó mediante el empleo de un ensayo inmunoabsorbente ligado a enzimas. Gla promovió la recuperación de la función motora en ratones después de una lesión medular y mejoró el entorno patológico en el área dañada. Estas alteraciones fueron más evidentes en ratones sometidos al método de inyección intratecal. Las inyecciones intraperitoneales parecen ser más beneficiosas para controlar las respuestas inflamatorias sistémicas. Aunque se requieren estudios más intensivos, Gla exhibe un potencial clínico prometedor como fitoquímico dietético rentable.

Factor de conversión proteica y capacidad antioxidante de isoflavonas en Glycine max / Protein conversion factor and antioxidant capacityof isoflavones in Glycine max

The conversion factor of nitrogen to proteins and isoflavones present in Glycine max was determined. For the determination of the conversion factor, we worked with solubilizing the proteins at alkaline pH and then extracting them with acidic pH. The proteins were identified by the Kjeldahl method. The antioxidant capacity was determined after extracting the isoflavones and their glycosides through the Soxhlet method, and then using the Brand Williams method (DPPH). The results indicate that the protein conversion factor was 5.85, the maximum concentration of total isoflavones was 33.33%, the antiradical efficiency of total isoflavones was 0.004 mL/ug min, the antiradical efficiency of gallic acid was 0.005 mL/ug min. and the antiradical efficiency of tannic acid was 0.0004 mL/ugmin. These results justify the consumption of Glycine max (Soya) as a food that has a high nutritional quality and provides an excellent source of antioxidants, which will prevent hormonal and carcinogenic diseases.

Se determinó el factor de conversión de nitrógeno a proteínas e isoflavonas presentes en Glycine max. Para la determinación del factor de conversión se trabajó con solubilizando las proteínas a pH alcalinos y luego extrayéndolas con pH ácidos. Las proteínas fueron identificadas por el método Kjeldahl. La capacidad antioxidante se determinó previa extracción de las isoflavonas y sus glicósidos a través del método de Soxhlet, y luego empleando el método de Brand Williams (DPPH).Los resultados indican que el factor de conversión proteica fue 5,85, la concentración máxima de isoflavonas totales fue 33,33 %, la eficiencia antirradicalaria de las isoflavonas totales fue 0,004 mL/ug min, la eficiencia antirradicalaria de ácido gálico fue 0,005 mL/ug min y la eficiencia antirradicalaria de ácido tánico fue 0,0004 mL/ug min. Estos resultados justifican el consumo de Glycine max (Soya) como un alimento que posee una alta calidad nutricional y proporciona una óptima fuente de antioxidantes, que permitirá prevenir enfermedades hormonales y cancerígenas.

Effects of daidzein on rat ovary against ischemia-reperfusion

Purpose: Our aim was to investigate protective effects of daidzein treatment on ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced ovarian tissue by immunohistochemical techniques. Methods: Thirty Sprague Dawley female rats were categorized into three groups as sham, I/R group, and I/R+daidzein groups. Bloods were analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH), and myeloperoxidase (MPO), and ovaries were processed for histological tissue protocol. Results: Both MDA and MPO values were increased in I/R group compared to sham and I/R+daidzein groups. GSH content was increased in I/R+daidzein group compared to I/R groups. In I/R group, theca and follicular cells were degenerated with apoptosis and dilatation and congestion, edema. In I/R+daidzein group, daidzein improved pathologies. In the I/R group, Bax expression was positive with follicular cells, granulosa cells and inflammatory cells. In the I/R+daidzein group, positive Bax reaction was observed in the epithelial, antral, and inflammatory cells. In I/R group, Bcl-2 reaction was in germinative epithelial cells, cells of antral follicle. In the I/R+daidzein group, Bcl-2 expression level was reduced after daidzein treatment. Conclusions: After the I/R procedure, ovarian cells and follicles were degenerated with apoptosis and inflammation. After daidzein treatment, Bax and Bcl-2 signal were decreased. It was observed that daidzein stopped the apoptotic process.

Isoflavonas como tratamento alternativo na sintomatologia climatérica: uma revisão sistemática / Isoflavones as alternative treatment in climacteric symptomatology: a systematic review

O climatério é uma fase natural da vida da mulher que ocorre entre os 40 e 65 anos de idade e é caracterizado pela transição entre a fase reprodutiva e não reprodutiva. Neste período, devido às alterações hormonais, ocorrem alterações biológicas, endócrinas e clínicas. Sintomas vasomotores são típicos do hipoestrogenismo e podem interferir negativamente na qualidade de vida das mulheres. Este estudo teve como objetivo revisar os resultados dos estudos de intervenção que utilizaram isoflavonas na sintomatologia de mulheres climatéricas não usuárias de Terapia de Reposição Hormonal (TRH). Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática de artigos publicados entre os anos de 2008 e 2019 na base de dados PubMed. Foram encontrados 169 estudos, e considerando os critérios de inclusão, 18 artigos foram selecionados, em que houve intervenção com isoflavonas por meio de cápsulas e/ou suplementos ou alimentos para tratamento da síndrome climatérica. Foram verificados resultados positivos nos sintomas globais, com destaque para sintomas vasomotores, em mais da metade dos estudos avaliados, em que doses entre 45 mg a 160 mg diárias de isoflavonas por pelo menos 12 semanas foram administradas, especificadamente nas mulheres no período da pós-menopausa.

The climacteric is a natural phase during women’s life, which occurs between 40 and 65 years. It is characterized by the transition from their reproductive to non-reproductive phase. In this period, due to hormonal changes, biological, endocrine and clinical modifications also occur. Vasomotor symptoms are characteristic of hypoestrogenism and can negatively affect women’s quality of life. This study aimed to review the results of intervention studies which used isoflavones to treat the symptoms of climacteric women who did not undergo Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). A systematic review of articles published between 2008 and 2019 in the PubMed database was carried out. 169 studies were found, and considering the inclusion criteria, 18 articles were selected, in which it was described isoflavones intervention with capsules and/ or supplements or foods for the treatment of climacteric syndrome. Positive results were observed regarding to global symptoms, with emphasis on vasomotor symptoms in more than half of the studies, in which daily doses of isoflavones, between 45 mg to 160 mg, for at least 12 weeks, were administered specifically in postmenopausal women.

Isoflavonas como tratamento alternativo na sintomatologia climatérica: uma revisão sistemática / Isoflavones as alternative treatment in climacteric symptomatology: a systematic review

O climatério é uma fase natural da vida da mulher que ocorre entre os 40 e 65 anos de idade e é caracterizado pela transição entre a fase reprodutiva e não reprodutiva. Neste período, devido às alterações hormonais, ocorrem alterações biológicas, endócrinas e clínicas. Sintomas vasomotores são típicos do hipoestrogenismo e podem interferir negativamente na qualidade de vida das mulheres. Este estudo teve como objetivo revisar os resultados dos estudos de intervenção que utilizaram isoflavonas na sintomatologia de mulheres climatéricas não usuárias de Terapia de Reposição Hormonal (TRH). Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática de artigos publicados entre os anos de 2008 e 2019 na base de dados PubMed. Foram encontrados 169 estudos, e considerando os critérios de inclusão, 18 artigos foram selecionados, em que houve intervenção com isoflavonas por meio de cápsulas e/ou suplementos ou alimentos para tratamento da síndrome climatérica. Foram verificados resultados positivos nos sintomas globais, com destaque para sintomas vasomotores, em mais da metade dos estudos avaliados, em que doses entre 45 mg a 160 mg diárias de isoflavonas por pelo menos 12 semanas foram administradas, especificadamente nas mulheres no período da pós-menopausa. (AU)

The climacteric is a natural phase during women's life, which occurs between 40 and 65 years. It is characterized by the transition from their reproductive to non-reproductive phase. In this period, due to hormonal changes, biological, endocrine and clinical modifications also occur. Vasomotor symptoms are characteristic of hypoestrogenism and can negatively affect women's quality of life. This study aimed to review the results of intervention studies which used isoflavones to treat the symptoms of climacteric women who did not undergo Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). A systematic review of articles published between 2008 and 2019 in the PubMed database was carried out. 169 studies were found, and considering the inclusion criteria, 18 articles were selected, in which it was described isoflavones intervention with capsules and/ or supplements or foods for the treatment of climacteric syndrome. Positive results were observed regarding to global symptoms, with emphasis on vasomotor symptoms in more than half of the studies, in which daily doses of isoflavones, between 45 mg to 160 mg, for at least 12 weeks, were administered specifically in postmenopausal women. (AU)

The influence of phytoestrogens or estrogens on the proliferation of the rat endocervical mucosa

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION Although estrogen therapy is widely used against post-menopausal symptoms, it can present adverse effects, including endometrial cancer. Soy isoflavones are considered a possible alternative to estrogen therapy. However, there are still concerns whether isoflavones exert trophic effects on the uterine cervix. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the histomorphometric and immunohistochemical alterations in the uterine cervix of ovariectomized rats treated with soy isoflavones (Iso). METHODS Fifteen adult Wistar rats were ovariectomized (Ovx) and divided into three groups: Group I (Ovx), administered with vehicle solution; Group II (OVX-Iso), administered with concentrated extract of Iso (150 mg/kg) by gavage; and Group III (OVX-E2), treated with 17β-estradiol (10 µg/kg), subcutaneously. After 30 days of treatments, the uterine cervix was fixed in 10% formaldehyde and processed for paraffin-embedding. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and eosin for morphological and morphometric studies or subjected to immunohistochemistry for detections of Ki-67 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (Vegf-A). The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS We noted an atrophic uterine cervix in GI, whereas it was more voluminous in GII and even more voluminous in GIII. The thickness of the cervical mucosa was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to GI and GII. The cell proliferation (Ki-67) was significantly elevated in the estradiol and isoflavones treated groups, whereas Vegf-A immunoexpression was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to groups GII and GI. CONCLUSIONS Soy isoflavones cause less trophic and proliferative effects in the uterine cervix of rats as compared to estrogen.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO Embora a terapia estrogênica seja amplamente utilizada contra sintomas pós-menopausais, ela pode apresentar efeitos adversos, incluindo câncer de mama e endometrial. Assim, as isoflavonas da soja são consideradas uma alternativa possível à terapia estrogênica. No entanto, ainda há controvérsias se estes compostos exercem efeitos tróficos significativos no colo do útero. OBJETIVOS Avaliar as alterações histomorfométricas e imuno-histoquímicas no colo do útero de ratas ovariectomizadas tratadas com isoflavonas da soja (iso). MÉTODOS Quinze ratas Wistar adultas foram ovariectomizadas bilateralmente (Ovx) e separadas em três grupos: Grupo I (Ovx) - veículo (propilenoglicol); Grupo II (Ovx-Iso) - receberam extrato concentrado de Iso (150 mg/kg) e Grupo III (Ovx-E2) - tratado com 17β-estradiol (10 µg/kg); as soluções foram administradas via gavagem por 30 dias consecutivos. Posteriormente, os colos uterinos foram retirados, fixados em formaldeído a 10% tamponado e processados para inclusão em parafina. Cortes (4 µm) foram coradas com hematoxilina e eosina para estudo morfológico e morfométricos, enquanto outros foram submetidos à imuno-histoquímica para detecção de Ki-67 e do fator de crescimento endotelial vascular-A (Vegf-A). Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise estatística (p≤0,05). RESULTADOS Observamos a presença de colo uterino atrófico no GI (Ovx), sendo este mais volumoso no GII (Ovx+Iso) e ainda mais volumoso no GIII (Ovx+E2). A espessura da mucosa cervical foi significativamente maior no GIII (Ovx-E2), em comparação ao GI (Ovx) e ao GII (Ovx-Iso). A proliferação celular (Ki-67) foi significativamente mais elevada nos grupos tratados com estradiol e isoflavonas, enquanto a imunoexpressão de Vegf-A foi significativamente maior no GIII (Ovx-E2), em comparação ao GII (Ovx-Iso) e ao GI (Ovx-E2). CONCLUSÕES As isoflavonas da soja causam menos efeitos tróficos e proliferativos no colo do útero de ratas em comparação ao estrogênio.

Puerarin inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma invasion and metastasis through miR-21-mediated PTEN/AKT signaling to suppress the epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common primary malignant tumors of the liver worldwide. Liver resection and transplantation are currently the only effective treatments; however, recurrence and metastasis rates are still high. Previous studies have shown that the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key step in HCC invasion and metastasis. Inhibition of EMT has become a new therapeutic strategy for tumors. Recently, puerarin, a well-characterized component of traditional Chinese medicine, has been isolated from Pueraria radix and exerts positive effects on many diseases, particularly cancers. In this study, CCK-8, EdU immunofluorescence, colony formation, wound healing, and migration assays were used to detect the effects of puerarin on HCC cells. We further analyzed the relationship between puerarin and miR-21/PTEN/EMT markers in HCC cell lines. Our results showed that HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, tumor formation, and metastasis were reduced by puerarin in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, puerarin inhibited the EMT process of HCC by affecting the expression of Slug and Snail. Moreover, oncogenic miR-21 was inhibited by puerarin, coupled with an increase in the tumor suppressor gene PTEN. Increasing miR-21 expression or decreasing PTEN expression reversed the inhibition effects of puerarin in HCC. These data confirmed that puerarin affects HCC through the miR-21/PTEN/EMT regulatory axis. Overall, puerarin may represent a chemopreventive and/or chemotherapeutic agent for HCC treatment.

Glabridin alleviates ischemia/reperfusion-induced functional failure of smooth muscle of rat ileum by upregulating the cAMP / Glabridin alivia la falla funcional inducida por isquemia/reperfusión del músculo liso de ileum murino regulando el incremento de cAMP

Despite the development of modern medicine, alternative medicine, which has not lost its timeliness, remains attractive for the treatment of various diseases. Glabridin, a major flavonoid of Glycyrrhiza glabra, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was: 1) to determine the possible protective role of glabridin against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the intestine; 2) to evaluate the in vitrocontractile responses of ileum smooth muscles to acetylcholine after an intestinal I/R; and 3) to explain the underlying molecular mechanism of its effect. Rats were assigned to groups of six rats each; 1) I/R, 2) gla10, 3) gla20, 4) gla40, 5) N5-[imino(nitroamino)methyl]-L-ornithine, methyl ester monohydrochloride (L-NAME)+gla40, and 6) Sham group. The healing effect of glabridin was abolished by L-NAME. Glabridin did not cause contractility of the smooth muscles to acetylcholine-induced contractile responses in intestinal I/R. Yet, it increased to spontaneous basal activity.

A pesar del desarrollo de la medicina moderna, la medicina alternativa, sin perder su vigencia, sigue siendo atractiva para el tratamiento de varias enfermedades. Glabradina, el flavonoide mayoritario de Glycyrrhiza glabra, es conocido por su actividad antioxidante y antiinflamatoria. Los propósitos de este estudio fueron: 1) Determinar el posible rol protector de glabradina ante daños intestinales por isquemia/reperfusion (I/R) 2) Evaluar in vitrolas respuestas de contracción de los músculos lisos del ileum ante acetilcolina después de I/R intestinal; y 3) Explicar el mecanismo molecular subyacente de este efecto. Se asignaron grupos de seis ratas: 1) I/R, 2) gla10, 3) gla20, 4) gla40, 5) N5-[imino(nitroamino)metil]-L-ornithina, metil ester monohidrochloruro (L-NAME)+gla40, y 6) Grupo testigo. El efecto curativo de glabridina fue abolido por L-NAME. Glabridina no causó contracción en el músculo liso como respuesta acetilcolina-inducida I/R. Además, incrementa la actividad basal expontánea.

Methylophiopogonanone A, an Ophiopogon homoisoflavonoid, alleviates high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia: assessment of its potential mechanism

Methylophiopogonanone A (MO-A), a homoisoflavonoid extracted from Ophiopogon japonicus, has been shown to attenuate myocardial apoptosis and improve cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, the hypolipidemic effects remain unknown. This study was performed to investigate a potential hypolipidemic effect of MO-A in hyperlipidemia rats, as well as its underlying mechanism of action. A rat model of hyperlipidemia was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Animals were randomly divided into three groups (n=8/group): normal control group (NC), HFD group, and HFD+MO-A (10 mg·kg-1·d-1) treatment group. The effects of MO-A on serum lipids, body weight, activity of lipoprotein metabolism enzyme, and gene expression of lipid metabolism were evaluated in HFD-induced rats. In HFD-induced rats, pretreatment with MO-A decreased the body weight gain and reduced serum and hepatic lipid levels. In addition, pretreatment with MO-A improved the activities of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase in serum and liver, down-regulated mRNA expression of acetyl CoA carboxylase and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c, and up-regulated mRNA expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α in the liver. Our results indicated that MO-A showed strong ability to ameliorate the hyperlipidemia in HFD-induced rats. MO-A might be a potential candidate for prevention of overweight and dyslipidemia induced by HFD.

Solid state fermentation to obtain vegetable products bio-enriched with isoflavone aglycones using lactic cultures / Fermentación en sustrato sólido utilizando cultivos lácticos para la obtención de productos vegetales bioenriquecidos con isoflavonas agliconas

The consumption of soybean isoflavones (IS) is associated with several beneficial properties on human health. Some lactic acid bacteria possess ß-glucosidase enzyme, that allows to obtain the active form of IS (aglycone). The solid state fermentation (SSF) has received great attention in the last years in order to obtain several valuable compounds. SSF, using soybean as substrate and Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL 981 as starter, was studied in the present work. Sucrose was added into soybean paste to study the effect on the behavior of the selected strain. The development of L. rhamnosus CRL 981 through pH and recount measures, sugar intake, organic acid production, ß-glucosidase activity and IS conversion were analyzed. No significant differences in growth and acidity were observed between soybean pastes with and without sucrose added, but the production of lactic acid was higher in the latter paste. The ß-glucosidase activity was detected in both pastes and the complete hydrolysis of IS at 12 h of fermentation was observed. Also, this strain was able to increase the free amino acids in soybean paste. SSF, using soybean as substrate and L. rhamnosus CRL 981 as starter culture, is an alternative process to obtain a soybean product bio-enriched in active IS with attractive nutritional characteristics.

El consumo de isoflavonas de soja (IS) está asociado a diversos beneficios para la salud humana. Ciertas bacterias lácticas poseen la enzima ß-glucosidasa, que permite obtener la forma bioactiva (agliconas) de las IS. La fermentación en sustrato sólido (FSS) ha recibido gran atención en los últimos anos debido a sus numerosas ventajas, y permite la obtención de productos con valor agregado. En el presente trabajo se estudió la FSS utilizando soja como sustrato y Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL981 como cultivo iniciador. Con el fin de estudiar el efecto de una fuente de carbono externa sobre el comportamiento de la cepa seleccionada, se adicionó sacarosa a la pasta de soja. Se evaluó el crecimiento de L. rhamnosus CRL 981 a través de medidas de pH y recuento en placa. Además, se analizó el consumo de azúcares, producción de ácidos orgánicos, actividad ß-glucosidasa y conversión de IS. No se observaron diferencias significativas en el crecimiento y acidez entre las pastas de soja sin adición de sacarosa y con ella, sin embargo, la producción de ácido láctico fue mayor en esta última. La actividad de ß-glucosidasa se detectó en ambas pastas y se observó la hidrólisis completa de IS a las 12 h de fermentación. Además, esta cepa fue capaz de aumentar los aminoácidos libres en la pasta de soja. La FSS, utilizando soja como sustrato y L. rhamnosus CRL 981 como cultivo iniciador, es un proceso alternativo para obtener un producto de soja bioenriquecido en IS bioactivas con características nutricionales atractivas.

Desenvolvimento de bebida tipo “café com leite” à base de extrato de café e extrato de soja e sua caracterização físico-química / Development of "coffee with milk" type drink based on extract of coffee and soybean extract and its physical-chemical characterization

O café é uma bebida muito consumida mundialmente, sendo apreciada pelas características sensoriais e estimulantes. Sua qualidade está associada a fatores, como a composição química dos grãos e seu processamento (torra e extração). O extrato de soja é uma bebida nutritiva e saudável, porém não faz parte do hábito alimentar da maioria dos brasileiros, devido ao sabor característico de “beany flavor”. O aumento de pessoas com restrições ao consumo de leite e seus derivados, levou a desenvolvimento uma bebida à base de extrato de café (EC) e extrato de soja (ES), semelhante ao clássico “café com leite". A analise de aceitação sensorial levou a formulação de ES com 3% EC. A bebida foi submetida à liofilização e após o processamento realizou-se a caracterização físico-química e analise de minerais dos extratos puros e da bebida final.

Production of Hydrolysate of Okara Protein Concentrate with High Antioxidant Capacity and Aglycone Isoflavone Content

Abstract This work aimed to evaluate the enzymatic hydrolysis of okara protein concentrate with respect to degree of hydrolysis (DH) in order to obtain a protein hydrolysate with high antioxidant capacity and aglycones isoflavone content. A central composite rotatable design was carried out to evaluate the influence of temperature (40 to 70°C), enzyme:substrate ratio (0.5 to 5.0%, g/100g protein) and pH (7.0 to 9.0) on DH. The optimal condition was 55°C, pH 9 and enzyme:substrate ratio of 5.0%, resulting a DH value of 35.5%. After protein hydrolysis at optimal condition, the antioxidant capacities of hydrolysate increased from 58.29 to 383.49 μM Trolox equivalent/g solids (ABTS method) and 2.41 to 15.32 μM Trolox equivalent/g solids (FRAP method) when compared with protein concentrate. The higher radical scavenging ability of hydrolysate was due to great amount of hydrophobic amino acids (34.92 g/100g protein). Moreover, the protein hydrolysate obtained under optimal condition had 3 times higher aglycone isoflavone content than non-hydrolyzed sample. These results showed that protein hydrolysis of okara could be an alternative approach to increase antioxidant activity and enrich aglycones isoflavone in this byproduct generated from soymilk industry.

Protein, lipid and isoflavone contents of food-type soybean lines at two sowing dates / Teores de proteína, óleo e isoflavonas de linhagens de soja tipo alimento em duas épocas de semeadura

Few works have reported the relationship among genotype, temperature, rainfall and the chemical compounds of soybean. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the interaction effect between soybean food-type inbred lines sowed in two different dates and the contents of protein, oil and isoflavones. Eight lines with null lipoxygenase seeds classified as food-type soybean were sowed in October 7 (early sowing) and October 29 (late sowing) at 2013/2014 crop year. The oil, protein and isoflavones contents were determined and the data were analyzed by variance analysis (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA) and UPGMA hierarchical. The genetic variability, sowing date and interactions between inbred lines and sowing date showed differences for all characteristics, except for oil content that did not showed a significant effect to the interaction. The greater participation of complex interaction was attributed to protein content with 87.82 %. According to PCA and UPGMA results, the food-type soybean lines were separated into three groups and were consistent in both sowing dates. The UEL 131 and UEL 153 lines showed the highest isoflavones content for the two sowing dates, indicating these genotypes as promising for breeding programs.

Poucos trabalhos relataram a relação entre genótipo, temperatura, precipitação e os compostos químicos de grãos de soja. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito da interação entre linhagens de soja tipo alimento semeadas em duas épocas nos teores de proteína, óleo e isoflavonas nos grãos. Oito linhagens de soja ausentes das enzimas lipoxigenases e classificadas como tipo alimento foram semeadas em 7 de outubro (semeadura precoce) e 29 de outubro (semeadura tardia) no ano agrícola 2013/2014. Os conteúdos de óleo, proteína e isoflavonas foram determinados e os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância (ANAVA), análise de componentes principais (PCA) e UPGMA hierárquica. A variabilidade genética, a época de semeadura e as interações entre linhagens e a época de semeadura mostraram diferenças para todas as características, com exceção do teor de óleo que não apresentou efeito significativo na interação. A maior participação da interação complexa foi atribuída ao teor de proteína com 87,82%. De acordo com os resultados da PCA e UPGMA, as linhagens de soja tipo alimento foram separadas em três grupos que se mantiveram com a mudança da época de semeadura. As linhagens UEL 131 e UEL 153 mostraram o maior teor de isoflavonas em ambas as épocas de semeadura, indicando que esses genótipos são promissores para programas de melhoramento.

Differential formononetin content in cultivars and experimental lines of red clover (Trifolium pratense L. ) plants affect the feeding behaviour of Hylastinus obscurus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) / Contenido diferencial de formononetina en cultivares y líneas experimentales de plantas de trébol rosado (Trifolium pratense L. ) afecta la conducta alimenticia de Hylastinus obscurus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) is a perennial plant widely used as a forage resource for several animals. This plant is the exclusive host of Hylastinus obscurus (Marsham) which causes irreparable damages to the root system affecting their persistence. It has been reported that the presence of the isoflavonoid formononetin in roots of red clover could act as an antifeedant on H. obscurus. There are not studies related to the formononetin content in red clover roots to the antifeedant effect elicited by experimental lines and cultivar of red clover. Six red clover genotypes were investigated in both formononetin content and their respective antifeedant action. The results showed to Sabtoron High and Superqueli-INIA with both the highest formononetin content in red clover roots and antifeedant effect, allowing to suggest that this secondary metabolites could be used as a chemical factor for red clover plants. Moreover, a rapid methodology for searching red clover genotypes with high formononetin content is reported.

El trébol rosado (Trifolium pratense L.) es una planta perenne ampliamente utilizada como fuente de forraje de variados animales. Esta planta es el exclusivo hospedero de Hylastinus obscurus (Marsham) el cual causa irreparables daños al sistema radical afectando seriamente su persistencia. Se ha reportado que la presencia del isoflavonoide formononetina en raíces del trébol rosado podría actuar como antialimentario sobre H. obscurus. Actualmente no existen estudios que relacionen el contenido de formononetina en raíces de trébol rosado con el efecto antialimentario elicitado por líneas experimentales y cultivares de trébol rosado. Seis genotipos de esta leguminosa fueron evaluados en cuanto a su contenido de formononetina y actividad antialimentaria. Los resultados mostraron que los cultivares Sabtoron High y Superqueli-INIA presentaron altos niveles de formononetina en sus raíces y efecto antialimentario sobre H. obscurus, lo que permite sugerir que este metabolito secundario podría ser usado como factor químico para incrementar la persistencia de plantas de trébol rosado. Además, se informa una metodología rápida para la búsqueda de genotipos con altos contenidos de formononetina.

Isoflavones in gynecology

SUMMARY

Subclinical atherogenesis in patients with mild psoriasis: A role for IL-6? / Aterogênese subclínica em pacientes com psoríase leve: um papel para IL-6?

Summary Introduction: A link of psoriasis with subclinical atherosclerosis has been postulated and cytokine network might intermediate this association. Few data are available in patients with mild psoriasis. We evaluated carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in drug-free psoriatic individuals and controls. In parallel, we searched for associations of cIMT with disease activity indexes and serum interleukins (IL) in psoriatic patients. Method: An experienced radiologist performed the cIMT analyses. Cytokine concentrations were assessed by flow cytometry. Disease activity was evaluated based on psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) as well as body surface area (BSA). Results: Sixty-five (65) patients and 64 controls were studied. Mean age of patients (50.9 years) did not differ from controls (p=0.362). A low PASI and BSA (< 10) prevailed (69.2% and 56.9%, respectively). Median levels of IL-12p70, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 were significantly lower in cases than in controls (adjusted p<0.05), while IL-6 and IL-8 medians did not differ between groups (adjusted p>0.05). Smoking habit and diabetes mellitus predominated in cases (p=0.002). An altered cIMT (≥ 0.9 mm) was more frequent in cases than in controls (23.8% versus 8.5%, adjusted p=0.045). Mean cIMT was higher in cases with a borderline significance (p=0.057). cIMT scores did not correlate to PASI (rs=0.066; p=0.250) or BSA (rs=0.175; p=0.185), but did correlate significantly with serum IL-6 (rs=0.26; p=0.005). Conclusion: Subclinical atherosclerosis was more frequent in patients with mild psoriasis than controls. cIMT in psoriatic individuals correlated with serum IL-6, pointing to an eventual proatherogenic role of IL-6 in these patients. Newer studies should clarify the connection of atherogenesis with cytokines in psoriasis.

Resumo Introdução: Foi postulada uma ligação entre psoríase e aterosclerose subclínica. A rede de citocinas pode intermediar essa associação. Poucos dados estão disponíveis em pacientes com psoríase leve. Avaliamos a espessura íntima-média carotídea (cIMT) em psoriáticos e controles livres de medicação. Paralelamente, pesquisamos a associação de cIMT com os índices de atividade de doença e interleucinas séricas (IL) em pacientes com psoríase. Método: Um radiologista experiente procedeu à análise do cIMT. As concentrações de citocinas foram avaliadas por citometria de fluxo. A atividade da doença foi avaliada pelo índice de gravidade (PASI) e pela área de superfície corporal (BSA). Resultados: Sessenta e cinco (65) pacientes e 64 controles foram estudados. A idade média dos pacientes (50,9 anos) não diferiu dos controles (p=0,362). PASI e BSA baixos (< 10) prevaleceram (69,2% e 56,9%, respectivamente). As medianas de IL-12p70, TNF-α, IL-1β e IL-10 foram significativamente menores nos casos do que nos controles (p<0,05 ajustado), enquanto as medianas de IL-6 e IL-8 não diferiram nos grupos (p>0,05 ajustado). Tabagismo e diabetes mellitus predominaram nos casos (p=0,002). Um cIMT alterado (≥ 0,9 mm) foi mais frequente nos casos do que nos controles (23,8% versus 8,5%, p=0,045 ajustado). A média de cIMT foi maior nos casos com significância borderline (p=0,057). Os escores de cIMT não se correlacionaram com o PASI (rs=0,066; p=0,250) ou o BSA (rs=0,175; p=0,185), mas se correlacionaram significativamente com a IL-6 sérica (rs=0,26; p=0,005). Conclusão: A aterosclerose subclínica foi mais frequente em pacientes com psoríase leve do que nos controles. Em psoriáticos, cIMT correlacionou-se com níveis de IL-6 no soro, apontando para um eventual papel pró-aterogênico para a IL-6 nesses pacientes. Novos estudos devem esclarecer a ligação da aterogênese com citocinas na psoríase.

Os efeitos do farelo de aveia e da farinha de soja na resposta imune humoral de ratos alimentados com dieta hipercolesterolêmica / The effects of oat bran and soy flour on humoral immune response in rats fed hypercholesterolaemic diets

Estudos anteriores têm demonstrado os efeitos sobre o sistema imune e sobre os níveis de colesterol da dieta com fibra solúvel e proteína de soja em ratos. Nesse estudo, nós avaliamos os efeitos do farelo de aveia e da farinha de soja na resposta imune humoral de ratos Wistar tratados com dietas hipercolesterolêmicas. Os animais (6 grupos) foram alimentados com diferentes dietas por 6 semanas e inoculados duas vezes com antígeno (IgY). As amostras de plasma foram coletadas após cada inoculação e os níveis de anticorpos anti-IgY (IgM, IgG1 e IgG2a) foram avaliados por ELISA. Os animais que receberam 1% de colesterol apresentaram um aumento de IgG1 anti-IgY e uma redução de IgM e IgG2a anti-IgY em relação aos animais controle. Estes efeitos foram anulados em animais alimentados com 1% de colesterol e farelo de aveia ou aveia + proteína de soja, mas não em animais alimentados com 1% de colesterol e proteína de soja. As dietas contendo 1% de colesterol resultaram em lesões hepáticas e aumentaram o peso relativo do fígado e do baço, mas não afetaram o perfil lipídico, o ganho de peso e o consumo de alimentos ou eficiência na conversão alimentar. Em conclusão, uma dieta com alto teor de colesterol influencia na produção de classes de anticorpos em resposta a um antígeno de forma que pode ser revertida pelo farelo de aveia.

Previous studies have demonstrated the immunological and hypercholesterolaemic effects of soluble dietary fibre and soy protein in rats. In this study, we evaluated the effects of oat bran and soy flour on humoral immune response in Wistar rats fed hypercholesterolaemic diets. Animals (6 groups) fed with different diets for 6 wks were inoculated twice with antigen (IgY). Plasma samples were collected after each inoculation and anti-IgY antibody (IgM, IgG1 and IgG2a) levels were evaluated by ELISA. Animals receiving 1% cholesterol presented an increase in anti-IgY IgG1 and a reduction in anti-IgY IgM and IgG2a relative to control animals. These effects were abrogated in animals fed 1% cholesterol and oat bran or oat bran+soy protein, but not in animals fed 1% cholesterol and soy protein. Diets containing 1% cholesterol resulted in hepatic lesions and higher liver and spleen relative weights, but did not affect lipid profile, weight gain, food intake, or food conversion efficiency. In conclusion, a high-cholesterol diet influences classes of antibodies produced in response to an antigen in a way that can be reversed by oat bran

Antifungal activity against colletotrichum acutatum and colletotrichum gloeosporioides of the major constituents from wood sawdust of platymiscium gracile benth / Actividad antifúngica contra colletotrichum acutatum y colletotrichum gloeosporioides de los constituyentes mayoritarios del aserrín de madera de platymiscium gracile benth

The tree tomato (Solanum betaceum Cav., Solanaceae) anthracnose, caused by the fungi Colletotrichum acutatum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is the most important disease of this crop in Colombia for its wide distribution and the losses it causes. In the present work, the in vitro antifungal activity of the soluble fractions in n-hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate, and their major constituents from the sawdust of timber specie Platymiscium gracile Benth. (Fabaceae) against both fungi was evaluated. The n-hexane-soluble fraction exhibited the greatest inhibitory effect. The metabolites homopterocarpin (a pterocarpan, 0.39 percent dry weight), calycosin (an isoflavone, 2.01 percent) and scoparone (a coumarin, 1.48 percent) were isolated for the first time from wood sawdust of P. gracile. The structure of these compounds was determined by 1H and 13C NMR analyses. The three compounds tested showed significant antifungal activity.

La antracnosis del tomate de árbol (Solanum betaceum Cav., Solanaceae), ocasionada por los hongos Colletotrichum acutatum y Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, es la enfermedad más importante de este cultivo en Colombia por su amplia distribución y las pérdidas que ocasiona. En el presente trabajo se evaluó la actividad antifúngica in vitro de las fracciones solubles en n-hexano, diclorometano y acetato de etilo, y sus componentes mayoritarios, del aserrín de la especie maderable Platymiscium gracile Benth. (Fabaceae), contra ambos hongos. La fracción en n-hexano exhibió el mayor efecto inhibitorio. Los metabolitos homopterocarpina (un pterocarpano; 0.39 por ciento del peso seco de aserrín), calicosin (una isoflavona; 2.01 por ciento) y escoparona (una cumarina; 1.48 por ciento) se aislaron por primera vez desde el aserrín de madera de P. gracile empleando técnicas cromatográficas. La estructura de los compuestos se determinó por análisis de RMN de 1H y 13C. Los tres metabolitos mostraron una actividad antifúngica significativa contra ambos hongos.

Tratamento da atrofia vaginal da mulher na pós­menopausa / Treatment of vaginal atrophy of women in postmenopausal

Sintomas relacionados com a atrofia vulvovaginal apresentam um impacto negativo sobre a qualidade de vida de até 50% das mulheres na pós­menopausa. No entanto, algumas recusam o uso de estrogênios, que é a terapia eficaz padrão, devido à publicidade negativa nos últimos anos e à disponibilidade de outras terapias opcionais. Esta revisão avaliou a eficácia de tratamentos hormonais, fitoterápicos de uso oral ou tópico para aliviar os sintomas da atrofia vaginal em mulheres na pós­menopausa. Foram avaliados estudos do Medline, Scopus e Cochrane Central Register de Ensaios Controlados com as palavras­chaves vagina, postmenopause, isoflavones, estrogen, syndrome genitourinária, vulvovaginal atrophy, clinical applications. Estudos de revisão e ensaios clínicos randomizados foram incluídos neste estudo. Os dados mostraram que os estrogênios de uso sistêmico ou local são os mais indicados, as isoflavonas só mostraram efeitos positivos quando de uso local. Alguns tratamentos não hormonais, como hidratantes, lubrificantes e o uso de laser vaginal, também são indicados. Outra possibilidade de tratamento é o ospemifeno, um modulador de receptor hormonal seletivo (SERM) na dispareunia e na atrofia vulvovaginal. Assim, o uso de opções é benéfico para mulheres com risco de neoplasia relacionada aos estrogênios.(AU)

Symptoms related to atrophy vulvovaginal have a negative impact on quality of life up to 50% of women after menopause. However, some refuse the use of estrogens that is the standard effective therapy due to negative publicity in recent years and other available alternatives therapies. This review assessed the effectiveness of hormonal treatments, herbal oral or topical use to relieve the symptoms of vaginal atrophy in women after menopause. We evaluated studies of Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using vagina, postmenopause, isoflavones, estrogen, syndrome genitourinária, vulvovaginal atrophy, clinical applications, as keywords. Review studies and randomized controlled trials were included in this study. The data showed that the systemic or local use of estrogens are the most appropriate, and the isoflavones only showed positive effects when used locally. Some non­hormonal treatments such as moisturizing, lubricating and the use of vaginal laser are also suitable. Another possible treatment is ospemifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) on dyspareunia and vulvovaginal atrophy. Thus, the use of alternatives is beneficial for women with cancer risk related to estrogens.(AU)