Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) Targets Adipocytes and Obesity-Associated Inflammation.

Excess weight and obesity are the fifth leading cause of death globally, and sustained efforts from health professionals and researchers are required to mitigate this pandemic-scale problem. Polyphenols and flavonoids found in Aspalathus linearis-a plant widely consumed as Rooibos tea-are increasingly being investigated for their positive effects on various health issues including inflammation. The aim of our study was to examine the effect of Rooibos extract on obesity and the associated low-grade chronic inflammatory state by testing antioxidant activity, cytokine secretions, macrophage polarization and the differentiation of human adipocytes through the development of adipospheroids. Rooibos extract significantly decreased ROS production and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-2 and IL-17a) in human leukocytes. Additionally, Rooibos extract down-regulated LPS-induced macrophage M1 polarization, shown by a significant decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines: TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, IL-1ß and CXCL10. In addition, Rooibos inhibited intracellular lipid accumulation and reduced adipogenesis by decreasing the expression of PPARγ, Ap2 and HSL in adipospheroids. A significant decrease in leptin expression was noted and this, more interestingly, was accompanied by a significant increase in adiponectin expression. Using a co-culture system between macrophages and adipocytes, Rooibos extract significantly decreased the expression of all studied pro-inflammatory cytokines and particularly leptin, and increased adiponectin expression. Thus, adding Rooibos tea to the daily diet is likely to prevent the development of obesity associated with chronic low-level inflammation.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ampelopsis grossedentata Leaf Extract as an Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Agent in Human Immune Cells.

Inflammation is a vital protective response to threats, but it can turn harmful if chronic and uncontrolled. Key elements involve pro-inflammatory cells and signaling pathways, including the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, NF-κB, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Ampelopsis grossedentata, or vine tea, contains dihydromyricetin (DHM) and myricetin, which are known for their various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the impact of an extract of A. grossedentata leaves (50 µg/mL) on inflammation factors such as inflammasome, pro-inflammatory pathways, and macrophage polarization, as well as its antioxidant properties, with a view to combating the development of low-grade inflammation. Ampelopsis grossedentata extract (APG) significantly decreased ROS production and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFNγ, IL-12, IL-2, and IL-17a) in human leukocytes. In addition, APG reduced LPS/IFNγ -induced M1-like macrophage polarization, resulting in a significant decrease in the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, along with a decrease in the percentage of M1 macrophages and an increase in M0 macrophages. Simultaneously, a significant decrease in NF-κB p65 phosphorylation and in the expression of inflammasome genes (NLRP3, IL-1ß and Caspase 1) was observed. The results suggest that Ampelopsis grossedentata could be a promising option for managing inflammation-related chronic diseases. Further research is needed to optimize dosage and administration methods.