The influence of raw and processed garlic and onions on plasma classical and non-classical atherosclerosis indices: investigations in vitro and in vivo.

Garlic and white and red varieties of onion were subjected to processing by a variety of culinary methods, and bioactive compounds then determined. For in vivo studies, 84 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 14 diet groups, each of six rats, including two control groups (one with no supplementation and one with cholesterol supplementation only). During the 30-day trial, the basal diets of the other 12 groups were supplemented with 1% cholesterol and raw or processed vegetables. Both raw red onion and red onion subjected to blanching for 90 s hindered the rise in plasma lipids more than the other vegetables studied in the supplemented diets. The decrease in antioxidant activity compared to the cholesterol-supplemented control group was significantly less for the group fed with red onion subjected to blanching for 90 s. No histological changes were detected in the studied organs of rats that had been fed cholesterol. In conclusion, blanching for 90 s most fully preserved the bioactive compounds and antioxidant potentials, and hindered the rise in plasma lipid levels and the decrease in plasma antioxidant activity of rats fed cholesterol. Alkaline phosphatase levels correlated with classical atherosclerosis indices, and determination of alkaline phosphatase is suggested as an additional index in atherosclerosis testing.

Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) cultivars as nutritional supplementation to rat's diets.

The properties of Mon Thong, Chani and Kan Yao durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) cultivars were compared in vitro and in vivo studies in order to find the best one as a supplement to antiatherosclerotic diet. Total polyphenols (361.4+/-35.3 mgGAE/100g FW), flavonoids (93.9+/-8.9 mgCE/100g FW) and total antioxidant capacity determined by DPPH and beta-carotene-linoleic acid assays (261.3+/-25.3 microMTE/100g FW and 77.8+/-7.8% of inhibition) were maximal in Mon Thong in comparison with Chani and Kan Yao and showed a good correlation between these three variables (R(2)=0.9859). Five groups of rats were fed diets supplemented with cholesterol and different durian cultivars. Diets supplemented with Mon Thong and to a lesser degree with Chani and Kan Yao significantly hindered the rise in the plasma lipids (TC - 8.7%, 16.1% and 10.3% and (b) LDL-C - 20.1%, 31.3% and 23.5% for the Chol/Kan Yao, Chol/Mon Thong and Chol/Chani, respectively) and the decrease in plasma antioxidant activity (P<0.05). Nitrogen retention remained significantly higher in Chol/Mon Thong than in other diet groups. Diet supplemented with Mon Thong affected the composition of plasma fibrinogen in rats and showed more intensity in protein bands around 47 kDa. No lesions were found in the examined tissue of heart and brains. Mon Thong cultivar is preferable for the supplementation of the diet as positively influenced the lipid, antioxidant, protein and metabolic status. The durian fruit till now was not investigated extensively, therefore based on the results of this study durian cultivars can be used as a relatively new source of antioxidants.

Influence of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from polluted and non-polluted areas on some atherosclerosis indices in rats fed cholesterol.

The influence of diets supplemented with mussels, from polluted (MPoll) and non-polluted (MNPoll) areas, on some atherosclerosis indices in rats fed cholesterol (Chol) were studied. According to the results of our investigation in vitro, mussels from polluted areas had higher contents of proteins, metals and antioxidant compounds, mostly phenolics and higher antioxidant capacities. 28 male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 7 and named Control, Chol, Chol/MPoll and Chol/MNPoll. The rats of the Control group received basal diet (BD) only, and the diets of the other 3 groups were supplemented with 1% of non-oxidized cholesterol (NOC), 1% of NOC and 5.6% of mussel dry matter (DM) from polluted and 1% of NOC and 5.6% of mussel DM from non-polluted areas for Chol, Chol/MPoll and Chol/MNPoll, respectively. The histology of the aorta and brain in rats fed cholesterol did not show any signs of atherosclerosis. Some differences were registered in the electrophoretic protein patterns of plasma in rats, with mussel-supplemented diets. In full plasma electrophoretic patterns of the Chol/MPoll diet group more proteins were detected than in both Chol and Control groups, and the differences were significant. In conclusion, in groups of rats fed cholesterol with mussels supplementation, a significant hindering in the rise of plasma lipid levels and also hindering in the decrease of plasma antioxidant activity were registered.

The atherosclerotic heart disease and protecting properties of garlic: contemporary data.

This article reviews the contemporary data concerning atherosclerosis and protecting properties of garlic. Recent advances in basic science have established a fundamental role for inflammation in mediating all stages of this disease from initiation through progression and, ultimately, the thrombotic complications of atherosclerosis. These new findings provide important links between risk factors and the mechanisms of atherogenesis and garlic properties. Numerous in vitro studies have confirmed the ability of garlic to reduce the parameters of the risk of atherosclerosis: total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, oxidized LDL. Bioactive compounds and antioxidant potentials in fresh, cooked, boiled and commercial garlic from different regions are presented, using beta-carotene, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) with K2S2O8 or MnO2, ferric-reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and others assays for antioxidant status. In vivo studies were reviewed on with garlic and cholesterol supplemented diets. The positive influences of garlic on plasma lipids, proteins, antioxidant activity, and some indices of blood coagulation are dose dependent. Garlic could be a valuable component of atherosclerosis-preventing diets only in optimal doses. Many recently published reports show that garlic possesses plasma lipid-lowering and plasma anticoagulant and antioxidant properties and improves impaired endothelial function.

Comparative study of health properties and nutritional value of durian, mangosteen, and snake fruit: experiments in vitro and in vivo.

In vitro and in vivo studies of the health and nutritional properties of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) were compared with snake fruit (Salacca edulis Reinw.) and mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana). Dietary fibers, minerals, and trace metals were comparable. Total polyphenols (mg of GAE/100 g of FW) and flavonoids (85.1+/-6.1) were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in snake fruit (217.1+/-13.2 (mg of CE/100 g of FW)), durian (309.7+/-19.3 and 61.2+/-4.9), and mangosteen (190.3+/-12.1 and 54.1+/-3.8). Antioxidant activity (microM TE/100 g of FW) of durian measured by DPPH and ABTS assays (228.2+/-13.4 and 2016.3+/-81.1) was significantly higher (p<0.05) than in snake fruit (110.4+/-7.9 and 1507.5+/-70.1) and mangosteen (79.1+/-5.9 and 1268.6+/-62.3). HPLC/DAD analysis of durian (microg/100 g of FW) showed that quercetin (1214.23+/-116.7) was present at levels three times that of caffeic acid, and twice as high as p-coumaric and cinnamic acids. The correlation coefficients between the bioactive compounds of fruits and their antioxidant activities were high (R2=0.99). Male Wistar rats (25) were divided into five dietary groups: the control group was fed the basal diet (BD); in addition to BD, the cholesterol (Chol) group was supplemented with 1% of Chol; the diets of the Chol/Durian, Chol/Snake, and Chol/Mangosteen groups were supplemanted with 5% of these fruits, respectively. It was found that diets supplemented with durian, and to a lesser degree with snake fruit and mangosteen, significantly hindered the rise in plasma lipids and the decrease in antioxidant activity. The nutritional values were comparably high. In conclusion, it could be suggested that inclusion of studied tropical fruits, especially durian, in known disease-preventing diets could be beneficial.

The effect of short-term lyophilized beer consumption on established hypertension in rats.

Effects of short-term lyophilized beer (LB) consumption on normotensive (WKY) and hypertensive (SHR) rats are reported. It was found that LB contains high quantities of bioactive compounds and has a high antioxidant potential. The WKY and SHR rats were divided into four groups of 8, two experimental and two controls, which were named LBWKY and LBSHR and ControlWKY and ControlSHR, respectively. LB was given to the rats of the LBWKY and LBSHR groups intragastrically at a dose of 2.72 g/kg in a volume of 10 ml/kg for 10 days. The rats of the control groups received saline solution. The following indices were determined: body weight gain, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, using a tail cuff method and GABA accumulation in the hypothalamus and the pons-medulla as measured by GABA-T inhibition. It was found that the treatment of rats with LB had no effect on the blood pressure and heart rate values. In both rat strains, LB decreased GABA accumulation in the hypothalamus and the pons-medulla. A significant reduction of body weight gain was observed in both LB-treated groups when compared with the corresponding controls. In conclusion, LB contains high quantities of bioactive compounds and possesses a high antioxidant potential. Diet supplemented with LB causes significant reduction of the central GABAergic activity in WKY and SHR rats without any effect on cardiovascular function. In addition, in both animal strains there was an apparent inverse association between LB intake and body weight gains.

The nutritional and metabolic indices in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets supplemented with durian at different stages of ripening.

The aim of this investigation was to assess the nutritional and health properties of Mon Thong durian cultivar at different stages of ripening. The assessment was carried out in vitro and in vivo. The contents of dietary fibers, minerals and trace metals at different stages of ripening were comparable. Total polyphenols (mgGAE/100 g FW) and flavonoids (mg CE/100 gFW) in ripe durian (358.8 +/- 31.4 and 95.4 +/- 9.3) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in mature (216.1 +/- 1 and 39.9 +/- 3.8) and overripe (283.3 +/- 26.2 and 53.5 +/- 4.9). Antioxidant capacity (muMTE/100 g FW) in total polyphenol extracts of ripe durian measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and [2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] (ABTS) assays (259.4 +/- 23.6 and 2341.8 +/- 93.2) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of mature (151.6 +/- 15.2 and 1394.6 +/- 41.5) and overripe (201.7 +/- 19.4 and 1812.2 +/- 61.4) samples. The correlation coefficients between the bioactive compounds in different stages of ripening and their antioxidant capacities were high (R;{2} = 0.99). Then 35 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 dietary groups each of 7 and named Control, Chol, Chol/Mature, Chol/Ripe and Chol/Overripe. During 30 days of the experiment the rats of all 5 groups were fed basal diet (BD), which included wheat starch, casein, soybean oil, vitamin and mineral mixtures. The rats of the Control group were fed a BD only. To the BD of the Chol group was added 1% of cholesterol. The BD of the Chol/Mature, Chol/Ripe and Chol/Overripe groups was supplemented with 1% of cholesterol and 5% of the mature, ripe and overripe durian as freeze-dried powder, respectively. Diets containing ripe and to a lesser degree mature and overripe durian significantly hindered the rise in plasma lipids and also hindered a decrease in plasma antioxidant activity. The nitrogen retention in rats of the Chol/Ripe group was significantly higher (63.6%, P < 0.05) than in other diet groups and the level of the plasma glucose remained normal. A decrease in fibrinogen fraction with ripe durian included in rat's diets was shown by electrophoretic separation. These changes were detected mostly in the low molecular weight proteins of rat's serum. Histological examination of aorta showed only slight differences in the tissue. In conclusion, ripe durian contains higher quantity of bioactive compounds, has higher antioxidant capacity and nutritional value. It positively affects the plasma lipid profile, the plasma glucose and the antioxidant activity in rats fed cholesterol enriched diets. Therefore, the ripe durian supplemented diet could be beneficial for patient suffering from hypercholesterolemia and diabetes mellitus. <

Raw and boiled garlic enhances plasma antioxidant activity and improves plasma lipid metabolism in cholesterol-fed rats.

UNLABELLED: In the present study the effect of garlic, in a form more similar to how most people eat garlic, on lipid and antioxidant metabolism in rats was investigated. The antioxidant activity was determined by the efficacy to scavenge 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) derived radicals in garlic samples. The highest results were estimated in aqueous fraction in comparison with other extracts divided on the basis of polarity. Wistar male rats were randomly divided into 10 diet groups, each with seven animals. The groups were named: Control, RG (raw garlic), BG (boiled garlic for 20 min), AERG (aqueous extract of raw garlic), AEBG (aqueous extract of boiled garlic), Ch (Cholesterol), Ch/RG, Ch/BG, Ch/AERG and Ch/AEBG. All experimental diets were supplemented with 25 mg of lyophilized garlic/kg body weight obtained from raw, boiled and their aqueous extracts over a period of 30 days. Serum lipid (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides) concentrations were higher in all groups fed cholesterol (Ch); however, the increase was significant only in Ch group, without garlic supplementation. In groups of rats fed diets with cholesterol, garlic samples significantly hindered the rise of TC and LDL-C (P < 0.05). A significant increase (P < 0.05) in the plasma antioxidant activity was registered in experimental groups of rats fed cholesterol-free diets supplemented with garlic; oppositely, a significant decrease was only in group of rats given food containing cholesterol without garlic. The protein spectra has shown that during short boiling some proteins change their functional properties such as solubility and mobility, resulting in a number of protein bands in SDS-electrophoresis. CONCLUSIONS: Raw and boiled garlic improved plasma lipid metabolism and plasma antioxidant activity in an experiment on rats. Thus, dietary hypolipidemic garlic was effective in reducing the oxidant stress, which was indicated by an increase of antioxidant activity and a decrease of lipids in the rats' blood. It was found that garlic boiled for 20 min has the same bioactivity as raw garlic in its antioxidant and protein spectra. Therefore it should be added at this time to foods. The selenium and copper content of raw garlic is not altered by boiling. The protein electrophoretic pattern of raw garlic is altered by boiling.

Red grapefruit positively influences serum triglyceride level in patients suffering from coronary atherosclerosis: studies in vitro and in humans.

The contents of the bioactive compounds in red and blond grapefruits and their influence on humans suffering from hypertriglyceridemia were studied. It was found that red grapefruit has a higher content of bioactive compounds and a higher antioxidant potential than blond grapefruit, determined by oxygen radical scavenging capacity, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, carotenoid bleaching, and Folin-Ciocalteu assays. Fifty-seven hyperlipidemic patients, ages 39-72 years, after coronary bypass surgery, recruited from the Institute's pool of volunteers, were randomly divided into three equal in number (19) groups: two experimental (red and blond groups) and one control group (CG). During 30 consecutive days of the investigation the diets of the patients of the red and blond dietary groups were daily supplemented with one equal in weight fresh red or blond grapefruit, respectively. Before and after this trial, serum lipid levels of all fractions and serum antioxidant activity were determined. It was found that serum lipid levels in patients of the red and blond groups versus the CG after treatment were decreased: (a) total cholesterol, 6.69 versus 7.92 mmol/L, 15.5%, and 7.32 versus 7.92 mmol/L, 7.6%, respectively; (b) low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 5.01 versus 6.29 mmol/L, 20.3%, and 5.62 versus 6.29 mmol/L, 10.7%, respectively; (c) triglycerides, 1.69 versus 2.32 mmol/L, 17.2%, and 2.19 versus 2.32 mmol/L, 5.6%, respectively. No changes in the serum lipid levels in patients of the CG were found. In conclusion, fresh red grapefruit contains higher quantities of bioactive compounds and has significantly higher antioxidant potential than blond grapefruit. Diet supplemented with fresh red grapefruit positively influences serum lipid levels of all fractions, especially serum triglycerides and also serum antioxidant activity. The addition of fresh red grapefruit to generally accepted diets could be beneficial for hyperlipidemic, especially hypertriglyceridemic, patients suffering from coronary atherosclerosis.

Dose-dependent influence of commercial garlic (Allium sativum) on rats fed cholesterol-containing diet.

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the dose-dependent influence of commercial garlic on rats fed cholesterol-containing diets. It was found that commercial garlic contains high concentrations of dietary fibers, microelements, and total polyphenols, and its total antioxidant capacity as determined by two independent assays [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS)] was similar to that of the original garlic samples. Wistar rats (35) were randomly divided into five diet groups, named control, Chol, Garlic500, Garlic750, and Garlic1000. Control rats were fed basal diet (BD), which included wheat starch, casein, soybean oil, and vitamin and mineral mixtures. To the BD of the Chol group was added 1% of cholesterol. To the BD of the other three groups (Garlic500, Garlic750, and Garlic1000) were added 1% of cholesterol and commercial garlic equal to 500, 750, and 1000 mg of raw garlic per kilogram of animal weight. After 4 weeks of the experiment only in rats from the Garlic500 group were a significant hindering in the rise in plasma lipids and also a significant hindering in a decrease of plasma antioxidant activity registered. A significant decrease in plasma circulating fibrinogen and an increase in the clotting time were found in the same group of rats (P < 0.05 in both cases). The fibrinogenolytic effect of garlic diets was visualized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the fibrinogen fraction of Garlic500 the 66, 24, and 14 kDa protein bands were detected with weaker protein intensity than in the corresponding ones in the Garlic750 and Garlic1000 diet groups. In conclusion, the positive influences of commercial garlic on plasma lipids, proteins, antioxidant activity, and some indices of blood coagulation are dose-dependent. Therefore, commercial garlic (Elena, Zelazków, Poland) could be a valuable component of atherosclerosis-preventing diets only in optimal doses.

Changes in mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis protein profile as a reaction of water pollution.

In the present report the changes in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis protein profile, as a reaction of water pollution, is presented. The antioxidant capacity was determined by the efficacy to scavenge the derived radical in mussel samples using the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) assay. The highest percentage of inhibition was estimated in protein mussels from the dirty area (DM) in comparison with the clean samples (CM). The amounts of both zinc and copper determined by atomic spectroscopy were significantly higher in the protein mussels from the dirty than from the clean areas (P<0.05). Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and fluorescence revealed specific qualitative changes in secondary and tertiary structures of mussel proteins from the dirty area by the shift in the amides I and II positions and fluorescence intensity. Estimated temperature and enthalpy of denaturation in the protein mussels well correlated with fluorescence and spectroscopic measurements and showed the changes influenced by water pollution.

Relationship between seawater pollution and qualitative changes in the extracted proteins from mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis.

The aim of this study was to find a reliable biomarker of seawater pollution. For this purpose the contents of Zn and Cu, proteins and antioxidant activity in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis collected from polluted and non-polluted sites of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast were compared. To determine the above-mentioned indices atomic spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, fluorescence, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and two antioxidant tests were used. It was found that the amounts of Zn and Cu were significantly higher in the mussel proteins from the polluted than from the non-polluted sites (P<0.05). FT-IR spectroscopy and fluorescence revealed specific qualitative changes in secondary and tertiary structures in mussel proteins in the samples from polluted sites. The thermodynamic properties of proteins and the changes upon denaturation were correlated with the secondary structure of proteins and disappearance of alpha-helix. Purified protein scavenging activity against 2, 2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) radical cation (ABTS(*+)) was significantly higher in mussel samples from polluted than from non-polluted sites. Therefore, the changes in Zn and Cu concentration, in protein's secondary and tertiary structures and antioxidant activity in mussels M. galloprovincialis from polluted sites can be a reliable biomarker of the level of the seawater pollution.

Red Star Ruby (Sunrise) and blond qualities of Jaffa grapefruits and their influence on plasma lipid levels and plasma antioxidant activity in rats fed with cholesterol-containing and cholesterol-free diets.

Bioactive compounds of peels and peeled red Star Ruby (Sunrise) and blond qualities of Jaffa grapefruits were analyzed and their antioxidant potential was assessed. The dietary fibers were determined according to Prosky et al., the total polyphenol content by Folin-Ciocalteu method and measured at 765 nm, minerals and trace elements by atomic absorption spectrometer, phenolic and ascorbic acids by HPLC and the antioxidant potential by two different antioxidant assays (DPPH and beta-carotene linoleate model system). It was found that the contents of most studied bioactive compounds in both qualities are comparable. Only the contents of total polyphenols and flavonoids were higher in red grapefruits, but not significant. The antioxidant potentials of red peeled grapefruits and their peels were significantly higher than of blond peeled grapefruits and their peels (P<0.05 in both cases). Diets supplemented with peeled red and blond qualities of Jaffa grapefruits and their peels have increased the plasma antioxidant capacity and improved plasma lipid levels, especially in rats fed with cholesterol added diet. In conclusion, both qualities of Jaffa grapefruits contain high quantities of bioactive compounds, but the antioxidant potential of red grapefruits is significantly higher. Diets supplemented with both qualities of Jaffa grapefruits improve the plasma lipid levels and increase the plasma antioxidant activity, especially in rats fed with cholesterol added diets. Jaffa grapefruits, especially their red Star Ruby quality, could be a valuable supplementation for diseases-preventing diets.

Comparison of the bioactive compounds and antioxidant potentials of fresh and cooked Polish, Ukrainian, and Israeli garlic.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an essential part of Polish, Ukrainian, and Israeli cuisine. The aim of this investigation was to compare the changes in bioactive compounds, proteins, and antioxidant potentials in fresh Polish, Ukrainian, and Israeli garlic samples after subjection to cooking temperature. Dietary fiber and essential trace elements were comparable. The antioxidant potentials were determined by four scavenging methods using beta-carotene, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS(*)(+)) radical cation with K(2)S(2)O(8) or MnO(2) assays. Polyphenols, tocopherols, proteins, and antioxidant potentials were higher in Polish garlic, but not significantly (P > 0.05). The SDS- and native-PAGE electrophoretic patterns of all three fresh garlic samples were without significant differences. Most of the proteins were in the molecular mass range of 24-97 kDa, and the more intensive major bands were concentrated at 50 and 12 kDa. The 50 kDa protein nearly disappears and the intensity of the 12 kDa lectin bands slightly decreases during cooking. It was observed that the bioactive compounds, antioxidant potential, and proteins in garlic decrease significantly after 20 min of cooking at 100 degrees C (P < 0.05). In conclusion, (a) the bioactive compounds, electrophoretic patterns, and antioxidant potential of fresh Polish, Ukrainian, and Israeli garlic samples are comparable; (b) garlic samples subjected to 100 degrees C during 20 min preserve their bioactive compounds, antioxidant potential, and protein profile and are comparable with fresh garlic; and (c) fresh garlic should be added to dishes cooked at 100 degrees C in the last 20 min of the cooking process.

Changes in plasma lipid and antioxidant activity in rats as a result of naringin and red grapefruit supplementation.

The aim of this investigation was to compare the influence of naringin versus red grapefruit juice on plasma lipid levels and plasma antioxidant activity in rats fed cholesterol-containing and cholesterol-free diets. The antioxidant activity of a correlated quantity of red grapefruit juice was higher than that of naringin. Forty-two male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups of 7 named control, naringin, grapefruit, Chol, Chol/naringin, and Chol/grapefruit. The rats of the control group were fed basal diet (BD) and 1-2 mL of distilled water. To the BD of the other five groups were added 0.46-0.92 mg of naringin dissolved in 1-2 mL of distilled water (naringin), 1-2 mL of red grapefruit juice (grapefruit), 1% of nonoxidized cholesterol (NOC) and 1-2 mL of distilled water (Chol), 1% of NOC and 0.46-0.92 mg of naringin in 1-2 mL of water (Chol/naringin), and 1% of NOC and 1-2 mL of red grapefruit juice (Chol/grapefruit). After 30 days of different feeding, it was found that diets supplemented with red grapefruit juice and to a lesser degree with naringin improved the plasma lipid levels mainly in rats fed cholesterol and increased the plasma antioxidant activity. In conclusion, naringin is a powerful plasma lipid lowering and plasma antioxidant activity increasing flavonone. However, fresh red grapefruit is preferable than naringin: it more effectively influences plasma lipid levels and plasma antioxidant activity and, therefore, could be used as a valuable supplement for disease-preventing diets.

Rapana venosa consumption improves the lipid profiles and antioxidant capacities in serum of rats fed an atherogenic diet.

In the recent years, the consumption of seafood has increased. There are no results on the studies of Rapana venosa (Rv) as a supplementation to the diets. We hypothesized that Rv would increase antioxidant capacity and reduce blood lipids, based on the composition of bioactive compounds and fatty acids. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to evaluate in vitro and in vivo actions of Rv from contaminated (C) and non-C (NC) regions of collection on lipid profiles, antioxidant capacity, and enzyme activities in serum of rats fed an atherogenic diet. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 6 each and named control, cholesterol (Chol), Chol/RvC and Chol/RvNC. Rats of all 4 groups were fed the basal diet, which included wheat starch, casein, soybean oil, cellulose, vitamin (American Institute of Nutrition for laboratory animals vitamin mixtures), and mineral mixtures (American Institute of Nutrition for laboratory animals mineral mixtures). During 28 days of the experiment, the rats of the control group received the basal diet only, and the diets of the other 3 groups were supplemented with 1% of Chol, 1% of Chol, and 5% of Rv dry matter from C and NC areas. Dry matter from C and NC areas supplemented diets slightly hindered the rise in serum lipids vs. Chol group: total Chol, 13.18% and 11.63% and low-density lipoprotein Chol, 13.57% and 15.08%, respectively. Cholesterol significantly decreased the value of total antioxidant capacity. The supplementation of Rv to the Chol diet significantly affected the increase of antioxidant capacity in serum of rats, expressed by the 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) method. The water extracts of Rv exhibited high binding properties with bovine serum albumin in comparison with quercetin. In conclusion, atherogenic diets supplemented with Rv from C and NC areas hindered both the rise in serum lipids levels and the decrease in the antioxidant capacity. Based on fluorescence and electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry profiles and in vivo studies, changes in the intensity of the found peaks were estimated in the serum samples after supplemented diets. These findings indicate that the supplementation of Rv to the atherogenic diets improve the lipid profiles and the antioxidant status in serum of rats.

Oat (Avena sativa L.) and amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) meals positively affect plasma lipid profile in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets.

Cereals are an important part of diets for hypercholesterolemic patients. However, some of these patients are allergic to these natural products. The purpose of the current study was to compare oatmeal with equal in nutritional values two allergy-free amaranth meals to determine whether this pseudocereal can be a substitute for allergic to cereals individuals. The total phenols of the samples were determined with the Folin-Chocalteu reagent, anthocyanins, and flavonoids spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activities were estimated with nitric oxide scavenging radical (NO) and by beta-carotene bleaching (beta-carotene). It was found that the contents of different protein fractions, antioxidant compounds, and the antioxidant activities of oatmeal were significantly higher than those of the two amaranth samples. The results of kinetic reactions showed that samples differed in their capacities to quench these radicals, and oats have shown more antioxidant activity than amaranth. High correlation was observed between antioxidant activities and phenols (R(2) = 0.99). In the in vivo part of the investigation, 60 male Wistar rats were divided into five diet groups of 12 animals each; these groups were designated as Control, Chol, Chol/Oat, Chol/AmarI, and Chol/AmarII. The rats of the Control group were fed basal diet (BD) only. To the BD of the four other groups were added the following: 1% of cholesterol (Chol), 10% of oat meal and 1% of cholesterol (Chol/Oat), 10% of amaranth I meal, and 1% of cholesterol (Chol/AmarI) and 10% of amaranth II meal and 1% of cholesterol (Chol/AmarII). After 32 days of different feeding, diets supplemented with oat meal and, to lesser degree, with amaranth I and amaranth II hindered the rise in the plasma lipids: a) TC: 3.14 vs. 4.57 mmol/L, - 31.3%; 3.31 vs. 4.57 mmol/L - 27.6%; and 3.40 vs. 4.57, - 25.6%, respectively b) LDL-C: 1.69 vs. 3.31 mmol/L, - 49.9%; 2.05 vs. 3.31 mmol/L, - 38.1%; and 2.16 vs. 3.31 mmol/L, - 34.8%, respectively; c) TG: 0.73 vs. 0.88 mmol/L, - 17.1%; 0.75 vs. 0.88 mmol/L, - 14.8%; and 0.79 vs. 0.88 mmol/L, -10.2%, respectively. The HDL-PH was increased as follows: 0.79 vs. 0.63 mmol/L, -25.3%; 0.75 vs. 0.63 mmol/L, -23.0%; and 0.71 vs. 0.63 mmol/L, -12.7% for the Chol/Oat, Chol/AmarI and Chol/AmarII, respectively. No significant changes in the concentrations of HDL-C and TPH were found; however the HDL-C in the Chol/Oat group was slightly higher than in other groups. No changes in the Control group were registered. In conclusion, oat and amaranth meals positively affect plasma lipid profile in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets. The degree of this positive influence is directly connected to the contents of the bioactive components and the antioxidant activities of the studied samples. It is suggested that amaranth could be a valuable substitute for hypercholesterolemic patients allergic to cereals.

Plasma circulating fibrinogen stability and moderate beer consumption.

MODERATE BEER CONSUMPTION (MBC) IS CARDIOPROTECTIVE: it positively influences plasma lipid levels and plasma antioxidant activity in beer-consuming individuals. The connection between MBC and blood coagulation is not clearly defined. Forty-two volunteers were equally divided into experimental (EG) and control (CG) groups following coronary bypass surgery. For 30 consecutive days, only patients of the EG consumed 330 mL of beer per day (about 20 g of alcohol). A comprehensive clinical investigation of 42 patients was done. Blood samples were collected before and after the investigation for a wide range of laboratory tests. The plasma fibrinogen was denatured with 8 M urea and intrinsic fluorescence (IF), hydrophobicity and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to reveal possible qualitative changes. After 30 days of moderate beer consumption, positive changes in the plasma lipid levels, plasma anticoagulant and plasma antioxidant activities were registered in patients of the EG group. In 17 out of 21 patients of the same group, differences in plasma circulating fibrinogen's (PCF), secondary and tertiary structures were found. The stability of fibrinogen, expressed in thermodynamic parameters, has shown that the loosening of the structure takes place under ethanol and urea denaturation. Also fluorescence stability of PCF was decreased. No changes in the lipid levels, anticoagulant and antioxidant activity or changes in PCF were detected in patients of CG. In conclusion, for the first time after a short term of moderate beer consumption some qualitative changes in the plasma circulating fibrinogen were detected: differences in the emission peak response, fluorescence intensity and all thermodynamic data. Together, with the decrease in the PCF concentration it may lead to an elevation of the blood anticoagulant activity.

The influence of beer with different antioxidant potential on plasma lipids, plasma antioxidant capacity, and bile excretion of rats fed cholesterol-containing and cholesterol-free diets.

The aim of this investigation was to assess the influence of beers with different antioxidant potentials on plasma lipid metabolism, plasma antioxidant capacity, and bile excretion of rats fed cholesterol-containing and cholesterol-free diets. Four types of beers were investigated in vitro. Two of them (designated as BeerHigh and BeerLow) with the highest and lowest antioxidant potentials (34.5% and 21.4% and 2.07 mmol/L and 1.65 mmol/L according to beta-carotene assay and Trolox equivalent antioxidant coefficient, respectively), were chosen for the experiment on rats. A total of 60 male Wistar rats were divided into 6 dietary groups of 10 rats each; the groups were designated as Control, BeerA, BeerB, Chol, Chol/BeerA, and Chol/BeerB. The rats in the Control group were fed a basal diet (BD) only, which included wheat starch, casein, soybean oil, vitamin, and mineral mixtures. To the BD of the other five groups were added the following: BeerHigh (BeerA), BeerLow (BeerB), 1% of cholesterol (Chol), 1% of cholesterol and BeerHigh (Chol/BeerA), and 1% of cholesterol and BeerLow (Chol/BeerB). After 4 weeks of feeding, diets supplemented with BeerHigh and, to a lesser degree, with BeerLow (Chol/BeerA and Chol/BeerB groups) hindered a rise in plasma lipids and a decrease in plasma antioxidant capacity, and increased the bile excretion indices. Supplementation with BeerHigh and, to a lesser degree, with BeerLow in rats fed cholesterol-free diets increased their plasma antioxidant capacity. No significant changes in the plasma lipid levels, antioxidant capacity, and bile excretion indices were observed in the Control group. In conclusion, beer was found to have a positively effect on plasma lipid profile and plasma antioxidant capacity, and to increase the bile excretion indices in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets. The degree of this positive influence is directly connected to the contents of the bioactive components and the related antioxidant potential of beer. It is suggested that to achieve the best results, beer with the highest antioxidant potential must be consumed.

Comparison of the contents of the main biochemical compounds and the antioxidant activity of some Spanish olive oils as determined by four different radical scavenging tests.

The aim of this study was to compare the contents of the main biochemical compounds and the antioxidant capacity of five Spanish olive oils by four different antioxidant tests and to find out the most valuable oil for disease preventing diets. Fatty acids, sterols and individual antioxidant compounds in Arbequina, Hojiblanca, Extra Virgin, Picual and Lampante Spanish olive oils were determined. Antioxidant activities were done as well using different radical scavenging activities: total radical-trapping antioxidative potential by ABAP (TRAP-ABAP), radical scavenging activity by DPPH (RSA-DPPH), antioxidant assay by beta-carotene-linoleate model system (AA-beta-carotene) and total antioxidant status by ABTS (TAA-ABTS). The highest content of all studied antioxidant compounds (353; 329; 4.6 and 2.7 mg/kg for tocopherols, tocotrienols, polyphenols and o-diphenols, respectively) was found in Extra Virgin oil. Also the highest antioxidant capacity was observed in Extra Virgin oil (668 nM/ml; 29.4%; 40.4% and 2.64 mM TE/kg for TRAP-ABAP, RSA-DPPH, AA- beta-carotene and TAA-ABTS, respectively). The correlation between total phenols and antioxidant capacities measured by four methods was very high, but the highest for the beta-carotene (R = 0.9958). In conclusion, the best method for determination of the antioxidant capacity of olive oils is the beta-carotene test. Extra Virgin olive oil has high organoleptic properties and the highest antioxidant activity. The above-mentioned makes this oil a preferable choice for diseases preventing diets.