Proteomic evaluation of mouse adipose tissue and liver following hydroxytyrosol supplementation.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is the primary phenolic compound of olives, virgin olive oil, and their byproducts. Proteomic analysis of metabolically active tissues helps elucidating novel mechanisms of action and potential targets in cardiometabolic disease. Thus, we aimed at determining the impact of long-term HT supplementation on the proteome of adipose and liver tissue, in mice. METHODS: C57BL/6J mice received either a control diet or a diet supplemented with nutritionally relevant doses of HT for eight weeks. RESULTS: HT supplementation differentially affects the adipose and liver tissues proteome, as evaluated by super-SILAC. Some oxidative stress-related proteins were modulated in both tissues, such as the multifunctional protein peroxiredoxin 1, which was consistently repressed by HT supplementation. In some cases tissue-dependent modulation was observed, as in the case of FASN. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides interesting information on the connection between changes seen at tissue proteome level and the metabolic effects of HT. The use of this pertinent proteomics quantification approach may prove quite useful for uncovering novel potential pharmaco-nutritional targets of HT supplementation.

A Brief Review of Blue- and Bilberries' Potential to Curb Cardio-Metabolic Perturbations: Focus on Diabetes.

Some epidemiological studies suggest that increased consumption of anthocyanins is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and hypertension. Also, high consumption of anthocyanin-rich fruit, such as berries, is associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). In this review, we briefly yet critically assess the available evidence in support of an anti-diabetic role of anthocyanins derived from berries, especially bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L., also known as European blueberry, whortleberry, huckleberry and blaeberry) and blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum, native to the United States). Further, cellular and molecular mechanisms are discussed and the "pharma-nutrition" use of anthocyanin-based preparations for the prevention and treatment of T2D is examined. We conclude that animal and in vitro studies strongly indicate that bilberry and blueberry have the potential to ameliorate T2D and its cardio-metabolic outcomes. However, appropriate clinical trials are lacking and will eventually clarify whether these foods (either as such or formulated as nutraceuticals) might be added to the current pharma-nutritional armamentarium.