Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Autophagy Markers in Soleus Muscle Disuse-Induced Atrophy of Rats Treated with Fish Oil.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and autophagy pathways are implicated in disuse muscle atrophy. The effects of high eicosapentaenoic (EPA) or high docosahexaenoic (DHA) fish oils on soleus muscle ERS and autophagy markers were investigated in a rat hindlimb suspension (HS) atrophy model. Adult Wistar male rats received daily by gavage supplementation (0.3 mL per 100 g b.w.) of mineral oil or high EPA or high DHA fish oils (FOs) for two weeks. Afterward, the rats were subjected to HS and the respective treatments concomitantly for an additional two-week period. After four weeks, we evaluated ERS and autophagy markers in the soleus muscle. Results were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post hoc test. Gastrocnemius muscle ω-6/ω-3 fatty acids (FAs) ratio was decreased by both FOs indicating the tissue incorporation of omega-3 fatty acids. HS altered (p < 0.05) the protein content (decreasing total p38 and BiP and increasing p-JNK2/total JNK2 ratio, and caspase 3) and gene expressions (decreasing BiP and increasing IRE1 and PERK) of ERS and autophagy (decreasing Beclin and increasing LC3 and ATG14) markers in soleus. Both FOs attenuated (p < 0.05) the increase in PERK and ATG14 expressions induced by HS. Thus, both FOs could potentially attenuate ERS and autophagy in skeletal muscles undergoing atrophy.

Propiedades hepatoprotectoras de las algas marinas: estrés oxidativo en modelos animales intoxicados con xenobióticos / Hepato-protective properties of seaweeds: oxidative stress in animal models intoxicated with xenobiotics

Resumen Desde épocas ancestrales, las algas marinas han sido empleadas con fines medicinales. En la actualidad, las algas han atraído la atención como fuentes de compuestos bioactivos, debido a su alto contenido en metabolitos secundarios. En numerosos estudios epidemiológicos e investigaciones experimentales se han demostrado diferentes propiedades terapéuticas. Diversos autores han demostrado actividades antioxidantes en especies de algas marinas y su relación con las propiedades hepatoprotectoras, explicadas en la mayoría de los casos por su composición polifenólica. Por otra parte, existen pocos fármacos disponibles que estimulen la función hepática, ofrezcan protección al hígado de posibles daños y/o ayuden a regenerar las células hepáticas. Por este motivo resulta interesante buscar fármacos alternativos para el tratamiento de enfermedades hepáticas. Durante dos décadas, el Grupo de Farmacología y Toxicología de la Universidad de La Habana (UH), en coordinación con el Laboratorio de Lípidos de la Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas (FCF-USP) de la Universidad de San Pablo, Brasil, han investigado varias especies de algas marinas como fuentes de sustancias neuro y hepatoprotectoras con resultados alentadores. En la presente revisión se analizó un conjunto de investigaciones de extractos y moléculas de algas marinas como posibles agentes hepatoprotectores y su relación con la actividad antioxidante. Se presentan diferentes metodologías con varios modelos animales, inductores de daño hepático y variables experimentales. A partir de estas consideraciones, el objetivo de este artículo de revisión fue resumir el estado de la ciencia hasta la fecha acerca del papel de las algas marinas como fuentes naturales de hepatoprotectores y su relación con las propiedades antioxidantes.

Abstract Since ancient times, seaweed has been used for medicinal purposes. At present, seaweeds have attracted attention as sources of bioactive compounds, due to their high content of secondary metabolites. In numerous epidemiological studies and experimental investigations, different therapeutic properties cuidahave been shown. Several authors have demonstrated antioxidant activities in seaweeds species and their relationship with hepato-protective properties, explained in most cases by their polyphenolic composition. On the other hand, there are few drugs available that stimulate liver function, offer protection to the liver from possible damage and/or help to regenerate liver cells, so it is interesting to look for alternative drugs for the treatment of liver diseases. For two decades, the Pharmacology and Toxicology Group of University of Havana (UH) in coordination with the Lipids Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Sao Paulo (FCF-USP) (Brazil) have investigated various species of seaweeds as sources of neuro- and hepato-protectors with encouraging results. In this review a set of investigations of extracts and molecules of seaweed is analysed as possible hepato-protective agents and their relationship with antioxidant activity. Different methodologies are presented with various animal models, liver damage inducers and experimental variables. Based on these considerations, the objective of this review article was to summarise the state of science to date about the role of seaweeds as natural sources of hepato-protectors and their relationship with antioxidant properties.

Resumo Desde épocas ancestrais, as algas marinhas são utilizadas para fins medicinais. Atualmente, as algas têm chamado a atenção como fontes de compostos bioativos, devido ao alto teor de metabólitos secundários. Em muitos estudos epidemiológicos e investigações experimentais, diferentes propriedades terapêuticas foram demonstradas. Vários autores têm demonstrado atividades antioxidantes em espécies de algas marinhas e sua relação com propriedades hepato-protetoras, explicadas na maioria dos casos por sua composição polifenólica. Por outro lado, existem poucos medicamentos disponíveis que estimulem a função hepática, ofereçam proteção ao fígado de possíveis danos e/ou ajudem a regenerar as células hepáticas, por isso é interessante procurar medicamentos alternativos para o tratamento de doenças hepáticas. Há duas décadas, o Grupo de Farmacologia e Toxicologia de la Universidade de la Habana (UH) em coordenação com o Laboratório de Lipídios da Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF-USP) da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil tem investigado várias espécies de algas marinhas como fontes de neuro- e hepato-protetores com resultados animadores. Nesta revisão foi analisado um conjunto de investigações de extratos e moléculas de algas marinhas como possíveis agentes hepato-protetores e sua relação com a atividade antioxidante. Diferentes metodologias são apresentadas com vários modelos animais, indutores de dano hepático e variáveis experimentais. Com base nessas considerações, o objetivo deste artigo de revisão era resumir o estado da ciência até o momento sobre o papel das algas marinhas como fontes naturais de hepatoprotetores e sua relação com propriedades antioxidantes.

Chemical composition of cold pressed Brazilian grape seed oil

Abstract Grape seed oil (GSO) is an important by-product of the wine-making industry which has received attention as an alternative source of vegetable oils; its chemical compounds can be influenced by agricultural practices and industrial processing. Knowledge of the composition of Brazilian GSO is scarce; thus, this study aimed to analyze the chemical characteristics, as well as the antioxidant activity of these oils. GSO samples were obtained from Brazilian markets and showed significantly high amounts of phenolic, γ-tocotrienol and phytosterols as well as, the presence of several volatile compounds. Based on these results, is possible to show that oils exhibited good antioxidant activity. Therefore, it can be inferred that Brazilian GSO had a considerable content of phytochemical compounds with biological activity, which allows its association with other vegetable oils.

Attenuation of obesity and insulin resistance by fish oil supplementation is associated with improved skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in mice fed a high-fat diet.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have been reported to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis in animal models of insulin resistance, but the involved mechanisms still remain unresolved. In this study, we evaluated the effects of fish oil (FO), a source of n-3 PUFAs, on obesity, insulin resistance and muscle mitochondrial function in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). C57Bl/6 male mice, 8 weeks old, were divided into four groups: control diet (C), high-fat diet (H), C+FO (CFO) and H+FO (HFO). FO was administered by oral gavage (2 g/kg b.w.), three times a week, starting 4 weeks before diet administration until the end of the experimental protocol. HFD-induced obesity and insulin resistance associated with impaired skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, as indicated by decreased oxygen consumption, tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediate (TCAi) contents (citrate, α-ketoglutarate, malate and oxaloacetate), oxidative phosphorylation protein content and mitochondrial biogenesis. These effects were associated with elevated reactive oxygen species production, decreased PGC1-a transcription and reduced Akt phosphorylation. The changes induced by the HFD were partially attenuated by FO, which decreased obesity and insulin resistance and increased mitochondrial function. In the H group, FO supplementation also improved oxygen consumption; increased TCAi content, and Akt and AMPK phosphorylation; and up-regulated mRNA expression of Gpat1, Pepck, catalase and mitochondrial proteins (Pgc1α, Pparα, Cpt1 and Ucp3). These results suggest that dietary FO attenuates the deleterious effects of the HFD (obesity and insulin resistance) by improving skeletal muscle mitochondrial function.

Optimization of the antioxidant polyphenolic compounds extraction of yellow passion fruit seeds (Passiflora edulis Sims) by response surface methodology.

The conditions for the solid-liquid extraction of the antioxidant polyphenol compounds from yellow passion fruit seeds were optimized by response surface methodology with the following variables as the extraction parameters: extraction time (12.8-147.2 min), ethanol concentration (13-97%), and temperature (16.4-83.6 °C). The polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity, which were assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, ß-carotene bleaching assay, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, were considered dependent variables. The association of the dependent variables was effective for explaining the effect of the independent variables within a determination coefficient (R2) range of 0.88-0.96. A moderate-to-strong correlation for the polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity by the investigated methods was established, and optimized conditions were employed to maximize this response. Extraction was carried out at 80 °C using 70% ethanol concentration for 30 min, which was the most efficient condition to obtain an extract with high concentrations of polyphenolic compounds (3.12 g gallic acid equivalent/100 g seed dry basis) and a strong antioxidant capacity. The stilbene piceatannol was the major compound identified by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (3.68 g/100 g seed dry basis). These results reinforce that agro-industrial waste demonstrates potential as a source of bioactive compounds, with implications in human health as well as in food and chemical industries.

Pretreatment with fish oil attenuates heart ischaemia consequences in rats.

NEW FINDINGS: What is the central question of this study? We investigated whether pretreatment with fish oil could prevent the major consequences of ischaemic injury to the heart. What is the main finding and its importance? Fish oil pretreatment attenuated the consequences of ischaemic injury as indicated by the small infarction area and the preservation of systolic function and coronary blood flow. These findings support the use of fish oil in order to reduce the impact of heart ischaemia. ω-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω-3 PUFA)-rich fish oil supplementation has protective effects on heart ischaemic injury. Left ventricular (LV) ischaemia was induced in rats by permanent ligation of the left descending coronary artery. Saline, fish oil or soybean oil was administered daily by gavage [3 g (kg body weight)-1 ] for 20 days before inducing ischaemia. Outcomes were assessed 24 h after left descending coronary artery ligation. Pretreatment with fish oil decreased the ω-6/ω-3 fatty acid ratio in the LV. A reduction in infarct size and in the intensity of ventricular systolic dysfunction was found in the fish oil group compared with the saline or soybean oil groups through echocardiographic evaluation. Before infarction, LV glycogen concentrations were decreased in the fish oil group compared with the saline group. Soybean oil pretreatment led to a further increase in the LV levels of CINC-2/αß, IL-1ß and TNF-α induced by the heart infarction. In heart-infarcted rats, fish oil pretreatment decreased creatine kinase and caspase-3 activities; prevented the decrease in the coronary blood flow; increased LV contents of ATP and lactate; increased the mRNA levels of iNOS, eNOS, HIF1α, GLUT1, VEGF-α and p53 in the LV as measured by RT-PCR; and did not change LV pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations compared with the control group. Fish oil protected the heart from ischaemia, as indicated by the decrease in the heart infarction area and systolic dysfunction associated with increased LV ATP concentrations and maintenance of the coronary blood flow with no change in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.

Gastroprotective activity of the hydroethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction from Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam. ) Pers

ABSTRACT Peptic ulcers are an important pathology, and the search for safer and more effective treatment methods is of paramount importance. In this study, we assess the gastroprotective effects of the hydroethanolic extract (HE) and ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) from Kalanchoe pinnata leaves against an ethanol/HCl-induced ulcer model in rats. The HE reduced gastric lesions by approximately 47% (400 mg/kg). A significant inhibition of the gastric lesions by 50% was observed after pretreatment with the EAF (200 mg/kg). Quercetrin and quercetin 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside were isolated and identified in the flavonoid fraction (EAF) by HPLC and NMR analyses because this fraction showed the highest gastroprotective effect. This fraction demonstrated high antioxidant activities (CE50=41.91 µg/mL) by DPPH in comparison with Trolox(r) and 11.33 mmol Trolox(r) equivalent by ORAC. In conclusion, the HE and FAE from K. pinnata displayed gastroprotective activity in rats, most likely due to the presence of flavonoids.

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. ) seed oil as a naturally rich source of bioactive compounds for nutraceutical purposes

Background: Characterization of food lipids has triggered the development of applications for the food and health industries. Thus, the lipid profiles of an increasing number of fruits and their seeds have been characterized and numerous bioactive components have been isolated. The bitter gourd seed oil has aroused great interest because it contains relevant amounts of conjugated fatty acid α-eleostearic acid (C18:3 9c11t13t), a positional and geometric isomer of α-linolenic acid. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the phytochemical composition and quality parameters of the seed oil of bitter gourd grown in Brazil. Methods: Bitter gourd was purchased from CEAGESP (Brazilian company of fresh food storages and warehouses). Seeds were lyophilized, and their oil was extracted using the Soxhlet and Folch extraction methods. The profiles of fatty acids and phytosterols were analyzed by gas chromatography, and the acidity and peroxide values were evaluated by methods of the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS). Results: The Soxhlet extraction (40 % w / w ) resulted in a higher yield of bitter gourd seed oil than the Folch extraction (16 % w / w). For both methods, α-eleostearic acid (56 and 58 %) was the major lipid in bitter gourd seed oil, followed by stearic acid (C18:0; 32 and 27 %). The oil displayed high content of phytosterols (886 mg/100 g), mainly ß-sitosterol, and low acidity and peroxide values. Conclusions: Bitter gourd seed oil from Brazil is an oil of good quality and its high contents of α-eleostearic acid and phytosterols with potential health-beneficial properties make it an attractive plant byproduct.

Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) almond oil attenuates carbon tetrachloride-induced acute hepatic injury in rats: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a potent hepatotoxin, capable of generating free radicals that lead to oxidative stress and the inflammation process. Pequi almond oil (PAO) has been reported to possess unsaturated fatty acid and antioxidant compounds related to beneficial effects on oxidation and inflammatory conditions. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of handmade and coldpressed PAO on CCl4-induced acute liver injury. The possible mechanisms underlying the effect on liver injury enzymes, histopathological parameters, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant and detoxification defense systems, as well as inflammatory parameters, were determined. Rats treated with PAO (3 or 6 mL/kg) for 21 days before CCl4 induction (3 mL/kg, 70%) showed significantly decreased levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, milder hepatic lesions and higher levels of serum high-density lipoprotein compared to CCl4 group. Moreover, PAO enhanced antioxidant capacity by increasing hepatic glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzyme activities, as well as reducing circulating concentrations of leptin and inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-6, leukotrienes -4 and -5 and the tumor necrosis factor receptor. In summary, PAO, especially cold-pressed oil, attenuated the CCl4-induced alterations in serum and hepatic tissue in rats due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Effects of high EPA and high DHA fish oils on changes in signaling associated with protein metabolism induced by hindlimb suspension in rats.

The effects of either eicosapentaenoic (EPA)- or docosahexaenoic (DHA)-rich fish oils on hindlimb suspension (HS)-induced muscle disuse atrophy were compared. Daily oral supplementations (0.3 mL/100 g b.w.) with mineral oil (MO) or high EPA or high DHA fish oils were performed in adult rats. After 2 weeks, the animals were subjected to HS for further 2 weeks. The treatments were maintained alongside HS At the end of 4 weeks, we evaluated: body weight gain, muscle mass and fat depots, composition of fatty acids, cross-sectional areas (CSA) of the soleus muscle and soleus muscle fibers, activities of cathepsin L and 26S proteasome, and content of carbonylated proteins in the soleus muscle. Signaling pathway activities associated with protein synthesis (Akt, p70S6K, S6, 4EBP1, and GSK3-beta) and protein degradation (atrogin-1/MAFbx, and MuRF1) were evaluated. HS decreased muscle mass, CSA of soleus muscle and soleus muscle fibers, and altered signaling associated with protein synthesis (decreased) and protein degradation (increased). The treatment with either fish oil decreased the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids and changed protein synthesis-associated signaling. EPA-rich fish oil attenuated the changes induced by HS on 26S proteasome activity, CSA of soleus muscle fibers, and levels of p-Akt, total p70S6K, p-p70S6K/total p70S6K, p-4EBP1, p-GSK3-beta, p-ERK2, and total ERK 1/2 proteins. DHA-rich fish oil attenuated the changes induced by HS on p-4EBP1 and total ERK1 levels. The effects of EPA-rich fish oil on protein synthesis signaling were more pronounced. Both EPA- and DHA-rich fish oils did not impact skeletal muscle mass loss induced by non-inflammatory HS.

Maternal Flaxseed Oil During Lactation Enhances Bone Development in Male Rat Pups.

Flaxseed oil is an alpha linolenic acid source important in the growth and body development stage; furthermore, this acid acts on adipose tissue and bone health. The aim of this study was to evaluate body composition, fatty acid composition, hormone profile, retroperitoneal adipocyte area and femur structure of pups at weaning, whose mothers were fed a diet containing flaxseed oil during lactation. After birth, pups were randomly assigned: control (C, n = 12) and flaxseed oil (FO, n = 12), rats whose mothers were treated with diet containing soybean or flaxseed oil. At 21 days, the pups were weaned and body mass, length, body composition, biochemical parameter, leptin, osteoprotegerin, osteocalcin, fatty acids composition, intra-abdominal fat mass and femur structure were analyzed. FO showed (p < 0.05): higher body mass (+12 %) and length (+9 %); body fat mass (g, +45 %); bone mineral density (+8 %), bone mineral content (+55 %) and bone area (+35 %), osteocalcin (+173 %) and osteoprotegerin (+183 %). Arachidonic acid was lower (p < 0.0001), alpha-linolenic and eicosapentaenoic were higher (p < 0.0001). Intra-abdominal fat mass was higher (+25 %), however, the retroperitoneal adipocytes area was lower (-44 %). Femur mass (+10 %), distance between epiphyses (+4 %) and bone mineral density (+13 %) were higher. The study demonstrates that adequate flaxseed oil content during a lactation diet plays an important role in the development of pups.

Lipídios e ácidos graxos poli-insaturados em fórmula infantil: comparação com o Codex Alimentarius / Lipid and polyunsaturated fatty acid contents in infant formulas in reference to the Codex Alimentarius

O Codex Alimentarius stan-72 (2011) preconiza valores adequados para lipídios e ácidos graxos em fórmula infantil. O total de lipídios e ácidos graxos poli-insaturados foi quantificado em 14 amostras de fórmulas infantis e seus resultados comparados com os valores recomendados. A extração e quantificação dos lipídios foi realizado segundo metodologia de Roese Gottielb. Para análise de ácidos graxos, utilizou-se metodologia de metilação segundo Hartman e Lago, injeção em cromatógrafo gasoso e quantificação com padrão interno de 23:0. Todas as amostras analisadas, em pelo menos um parâmetro estava em desacordo com o preconizado pelo Codex Alimentarius.

Codex Alimentarius stan-72 (2011) discriminate the adequate values of fatty acids and lipids for infant formula. Total lipids and polyunsaturated fatty acids were quantified in fourteen infant formulas samples and compared the results with the recommended values. Extraction and quantification of lipids followed Roese Gottielb method. Analysis of fatty acid, methylated by Hartman and Lago procedure, was carried out through gas chromatography was performed with the use of internal standard 23:0. In the analyzed samples, at least one parameter was in disagreement with Codex Alimentarius.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Brazilian Passiflora Seed Oils.

The seed oils of different varieties of 4 Passiflora species cultivated in Brazil were analyzed and compared regarding their physicochemical parameters, fatty acid composition and the presence of minor components, such as phytosterols, tocopherols, total carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. The antioxidant capacities of the oil extracts were determined using the 2,2'azinobis [3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] and oxygen radical absorbance capacity methods. The results revealed that all studied Passiflora seed oils possessed similar physicochemical characteristics, except for color, and predominantly contained polyunsaturated fatty acids with a high percentage of linolenic acid (68.75% to 71.54%). Other than the total phytosterol content, the extracted oil from Passiflora setacea BRS Pérola do Cerrado seeds had higher quantities (% times higher than the average of all samples), of carotenoids (44%), phenolic compounds (282%) and vitamin E (215%, 56%, 398%, and 100% for the α-tocopherol, ß-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, and δ-tocopherol isomers, respectively). The methanolic extracts from Passiflora setacea BRS Pérola do Cerrado seed oil also showed higher antioxidant activity, which was positively correlated with the total phenolic, δ-tocopherol, and vitamin E contents. For the first time, these results indicate that Passiflora species have strong potential regarding the use of their seeds for oil extraction. Due to their interesting composition, the seed oils may be used as a raw material in manufacturing industries in addition to other widely used vegetable oils.

Efeito do óleo de semente de uva prensado a frio nos marcadores bioquímicos e perfil inflamatório de ratos / Effect of cold pressed grape seed oil on rats' biochemical markers and inflammatory profile

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do consumo crônico do óleo de semente de uva, obtido do mercado brasileiro, nos marcadores bioquímicos e inflamatórios de ratos saudáveis. Métodos: Ratos Wistar, recém-desmamados e saudáveis, receberam por 65 dias óleo de semente de uva e soja em duas concentrações (3 e 6 mL/kg de peso corporal). Os parâmetros avaliados foram a ingestão alimentar, peso corporal e dos tecidos hepático, cerebral e adiposo retroperitonial; neste último, foi ainda realizado o perfil de ácidos graxos. A análise dos parâmetros bioquímicos, peroxidação lipídica e perfil inflamatório através da quantificação das citocinas TNF-α, IL-10 e IL-6 foi realizada no soro. Resultados: O óleo de semente de uva, independentemente da dose administrada, promoveu maior acúmulo de gordura no tecido hepático e aumento nos níveis de peroxidação lipídica do soro. Verificou-se que, quando consumido na maior dose, houve maior incorporação do ácido graxo linoleico no tecido adiposo retroperitonial. Modificações nos parâmetros bioquímicos e inflamatórios séricos não foram observadas. Conclusão: O consumo de óleo de semente de uva não provocou alterações metabólicas significantes em nenhuma das doses administradas ainda que se tenha observado uma elevação nos níveis de peroxidação lipídica sérica. .

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of long term consumption of cold-pressed grape seed oil purchased in Brazil on the biochemical and inflammatory biomarkers of healthy rats. Methods: Weaned and healthy Wistar rats received two concentrations (3 and 6 mL/kg body weight) of grape seed and soy oil for 65 days. The parameters studied were food intake and body, liver, brain, and retroperitoneal adipose tissue weight. The fatty acid composition of the adipose tissue was also determined. Serum biochemical parameters, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory profile were assessed, quantifying the cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 10 and IL-6. Results: Grape seed oil, regardless of dosage, promoted much fat accumulation on hepatic tissue and also increased serum lipid peroxidation. The highest dosage promoted the greatest incorporation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the retroperitoneal adipose tissue. The biochemical parameters and serum inflammatory markers did not change. Conclusion: Grape seed oil did not promote significant metabolic changes at either concentration but increased serum lipid peroxidation. .

Aqueous extract of Rosmarinus officinalis L. inhibits neutrophil influx and cytokine secretion.

Rosmarinus officinalis L. phenolic compounds have attracted considerable attention because of their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, including its ability to treat inflammatory disorders. In this work, we investigated the in vivo and in vitro effects of R. officinalis aqueous extract on neutrophil trafficking from the blood into an inflamed tissue, on cell-derived secretion of chemical mediators, and on oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated using carrageenan-induced inflammation in the subcutaneous tissue of male Wistar rats orally treated with the R. officinalis extract (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg). The leukocyte influx (optical microscopy), secretion of chemical mediators (prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), TNF-α, interleukin 6 (IL-6), leukotriene B4 (LTB4), and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant 1 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and the anti-oxidative profile (super oxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) spectrophotometry) were quantified in the inflamed exudate. N-Formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine-induced chemotaxis, lipopolysaccharide-induced NO2 (-) production (Greiss reaction), and adhesion molecule expression (flow cytometry) were in vitro quantified using oyster glycogen recruited peritoneal neutrophils previous treated with the extract (1, 10, or 100 µg/mL). Animals orally treated with phosphate-buffered saline and neutrophils incubated with Hank's balanced salt solution were used as control. R. officinalis extract oral treatment caused a dose-dependent reduction in the neutrophil migration as well as decreased SOD, TBARS, LTB4, PGE2, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in the inflamed exudate. In vitro treatment with R. officinalis decreased neutrophil chemotaxis, NO2 (-) production, and shedding of L-selectin and ß2 integrin expressions. Results here presented show that R. officinalis aqueous extract displays important in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory actions by blocking pathways of neutrophil migration and secretion, suggesting its therapeutic application to acute inflammatory reactions.

Presence of resiiratory viruses in equines in Brazil / Presença de vírus respiratórios em equinos do Brasil

Equines are susceptible to respiratory viruses such as influenza and parainfluenza. Respiratory diseases have adversely impacted economies all over the world. This study was intended to determine the presence of influenza and parainfluenza viruses in unvaccinated horses from some regions of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Blood serum collected from 72 equines of different towns in this state was tested by hemagglutination inhibition test to detect antibodies for both viruses using the corresponding antigens. About 98.6% (71) and 97.2% (70) of the equines responded with antibody protective titers (≥ 80 HIU/25µL) H7N7 and H3N8 subtypes of influenza A viruses, respectively. All horses (72) also responded with protective titers (≥ 80) HIU/25µL against the parainfluenza virus. The difference between mean antibody titers to H7N7 and H3N8 subtypes of influenza A viruses was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The mean titers for influenza and parainfluenza viruses, on the other hand, showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). These results indicate a better antibody response from equines to parainfluenza 3 virus than to the equine influenza viruses. No statistically significant differences in the responses against H7N7 and H3N8 subtypes of influenza A and parainfluenza 3 viruses were observed according to the gender (female, male) or the age (≤ 2 to 20 years-old) groups. This study provides evidence of the concomitant presence of two subtypes of the equine influenza A (H7N7 and H3N8) viruses and the parainfluenza 3 virus in equines in Brazil. Thus, it is advisable to vaccinate equines against these respiratory viruses.

Os equinos são susceptíveis aos vírus respiratórios, como o vírus influenza, e também tem sido citado o vírus parainfluenza. Doenças respiratórias têm impactado a economia em todo mundo. Este estudo intencionou determinar a presença dos vírus influenza e parainfluenza em equinos não vacinados de certas regiões do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Os soros coletados de 72 equinos, de diferentes cidades deste Estado, foram submetidos ao teste de Inibição da Hemaglutinação (IH) com objetivo de detectar anticorpos contra os referidos vírus, usando antígenos correspondentes. Cerca de 98,8% (72) e 97,2% (70) desses equinos responderam com títulos protetores (≥ 80 UIH/25µL) para os subtipos H7N7 e H3N8 de vírus influenza, respectivamente. Todos equinos (72) responderam com títulos protetores (≥ 80 UIH/25µL) contra o vírus parainfluenza 3. A diferença entre as médias de anticorpos contra o vírus influenza A não foi estatisticamente significante (p > 0,05). As médias de títulos dos vírus influenza e parainfluenza, por outro lado, demonstraram diferença estatisticamente significante (p < 0,001). Esses resultados indicam melhor resposta de anticorpos pelos equinos ao vírus parainfluenza 3 do que ao vírus da influenza equina. Nenhuma diferença estatística foi observada nas respostas contra os vírus da influenza equina A (H7N7 e H3N8) e parainfluenza 3, com relação ao gênero (fêmeas e machos) e grupo etário (≤ 2 até 20 anos) nos equinos avaliados. Este estudo fornece evidência da presença concomitante dos dois subtipos vírus influenza A (H7N7 e H3N8) e do parainfluenza 3 em cavalos no Brasil. Portanto, é aconselhável a vacinação dos cavalos contra esses vírus respiratórios.

Exposure to lard-based high-fat diet during fetal and lactation periods modifies breast cancer susceptibility in adulthood in rats.

The present study investigated whether early life exposure to high levels of animal fat increases breast cancer risk in adulthood in rats. Dams consumed a lard-based high-fat (HF) diet (60% fat-derived energy) or an AIN93G control diet (16% fat-derived energy) during gestation or gestation and lactation. Their 7-week-old female offspring were exposed to 7,12-dimethyl-benzo[a]anthracene to induce mammary tumors. Pregnant dams consuming an HF diet had higher circulating leptin levels than pregnant control dams. However, compared to the control offspring, significantly lower susceptibility to mammary cancer development was observed in the offspring of dams fed an HF diet during pregnancy (lower tumor incidence, multiplicity and weight), or pregnancy and lactation (lower tumor multiplicity only). Mammary epithelial elongation, cell proliferation (Ki67) and expression of NFκB p65 were significantly lower and p21 expression and global H3K9me3 levels were higher in the mammary glands of rats exposed to an HF lard diet in utero. They also tended to have lower Rank/Rankl ratios (P=.09) and serum progesterone levels (P=.07) than control offspring. In the mammary glands of offspring of dams consuming an HF diet during both pregnancy and lactation, the number of terminal end buds, epithelial elongation and the BCL-2/BAX ratio were significantly lower and serum leptin levels were higher than in the controls. Our data confirm that the breast cancer risk of offspring can be programmed by maternal dietary intake. However, contrary to our expectation, exposure to high levels of lard during early life decreased later susceptibility to breast cancer.

Effect of antioxidant potential of tropical fruit juices on antioxidant enzyme profiles and lipid peroxidation in rats.

Fruits are a rich source of a variety of biologically active compounds that can have complementary and overlapping mechanisms of action, including detoxification, enzyme modulation and antioxidant effects. Although the effects of tropical fruits have been examined individually, the interactive antioxidant capacity of the bioactive compounds in these formulations has not been sufficiently explored. For this reason, this study investigated the effect of two tropical fruit juices (FA and FB) on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes in rats. Seven groups, with eight rats each, were fed a normal diet for 4 weeks, and were force-fed daily either water (control), 100, 200, or 400 mg of FA or FB per kg. The results showed that the liver superoxide dismutase and catalase activities (FA200), erythrocytes glutathione peroxidase (FB400) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (FB100, FA400, FB200, FB400) were efficiently reduced by fruit juices when compared with control; whereas HDL-c increased (FB400).

Principais alterações físico-químicas em óleos e gorduras submetidos ao processo de fritura por imersão: regulamentação e efeitos na saúde / Major physical and chemical changes in oils and fats used for deep frying: regulation and effects on health

Alimentos fritos são muito consumidos no Brasil e no mundo. Sabe-se que a fritura é um processo complexo e oferece riscos à saúde humana. Um dos objetivos desta revisão foi apresentar as principais alterações físicas (escurecimento, viscosidade e formação de espuma) e químicas (hidrólise e auto-oxidação) que ocorrem nos óleos e/ou gorduras durante o processo de fritura. Outro objetivo foi abordar os principais fatores envolvidos na degradação do óleo e/ou da gordura de fritura (temperatura e tempo de fritura; relação superfície/volume; tipo de aquecimento; tipo de óleo; adição de óleo novo; natureza e quantidade do alimento frito; presença de contaminantes metálicos e equipamento utilizado, além da presença de antioxidantes). Foram também apresentados alguns métodos de controle de qualidade de óleo ou de gordura de fritura existentes (quantificação de compostos polares totais, acidez, índice de peróxidos, valor de p-anisidina e métodos rápidos de quantificação). Por fim, foram relacionadas as regulamentações vigentes sobre o processo de fritura, os efeitos dos compostos degradados sobre a saúde humana e algumas recomendações para a melhoria da qualidade do óleo ou da gordura de fritura formuladas pelo Informe Técnico nº 11 da Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária.

Fried foods are widely consumed in Brazil and in the world. Frying is a complex process with human health risks. One of the objectives of this review was to present the main physical changes (darkening, viscosity and foam formation) and chemical changes (hydrolysis and autoxidation) that occur in oils and/or fats during the frying process. Another objective was to investigate the main factors associated with oil and/or fat degradation, namely frying temperature and time; surface/volume ratio; type of heating; addition of new oil; type and quantity of the food being fried; presence of metal contaminants; equipment used; and presence of antioxidants. Some existing frying oil or fat quality control methods (total polar compound analysis, acidity, peroxide index, p-anisidine value and rapid quantitative methods) were also presented. The review closes with the regulations concerning the frying process, effects of degraded compounds on human health, and recommendations for improving frying oil or fat quality listed in Technical Report nº 11 of the National Sanitary Surveillance Agency.

Antiulcerogenic activity of chlorogenic acid in different models of gastric ulcer.

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is found in many foods, including coffee, berries, potatoes, carrots, wine, apples, and various herbs, and has anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antitumoral actions. The CGA is well absorbed orally, and its effects on gastric ulcer have not been previously reported. The present manuscript evaluated the effect of oral administration of CGA on ethanol/HCl (Et/HCl) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcer model in male Swiss mice. Animals were pretreated with 0.2 % carboxymethylcellulose (vehicle, p.o.), omeprazole (positive control, 30 mg/kg, p.o.), carbenoxolone (antioxidant positive control, 100 mg/kg, p.o.), or CGA (5, 25, or 50 mg/kg, p.o.). One hour later, the gastric ulcer was induced by injecting Et/HCl solution (100 µL/10 g body weight; Et 60 % + HCl 0.03 M) or piroxicam (100 mg/kg, p.o). After another hour or 4 h later, gastric tissues were collected from Et/HCl or piroxicam-treated animals, respectively, to evaluate the size of the lesion, histological alterations, secretion of gastric acid, neutrophil migration, oxidative/antioxidative enzymes, markers of lipid peroxidation, or concentrations of inflammatory mediators. CGA treatment had a gastroprotective effect in both models, reducing the percentage of lesioned area. CGA treatment did not alter the secretion of gastric action but inhibited neutrophil migration and restored the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in mice treated with Et/HCl. Additionally, CGA treatment blocked the increase of tumor necrosis factor alpha and leukotriene B4 but did not restore the reduced prostaglandin levels in the NSAID-induced ulcer. Together, the data presented herein show that CGA may be a suitable natural compound for the prevention and treatment of gastric lesions caused by a different etiology.