Exploring the Impact of Alternative Sources of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Exercise Performance.

An increase in the level of nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in regulating the human cardiovascular system (lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow), glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, and may help enhance exercise capacity in healthy individuals (including athletes). This molecule is formed by endogenous enzymatic synthesis and the intake of inorganic nitrate (NO3-) from dietary sources. Although one of the most well-known natural sources of NO3- in the daily diet is beetroot (Beta vulgaris), this review also explores other plant sources of NO3- with comparable concentrations that could serve as ergogenic aids, supporting exercise performance or recovery in healthy individuals. The results of the analysis demonstrate that red spinach (Amaranthus spp.) and green spinach (Spinacia oleracea) are alternative natural sources rich in dietary NO3-. The outcomes of the collected studies showed that consumption of selected alternative sources of inorganic NO3- could support physical condition. Red spinach and green spinach have been shown to improve exercise performance or accelerate recovery after physical exertion in healthy subjects (including athletes).

Beech Mushroom (Hypsizygus marmoreus, Agaricomycetes) Cultivation and Outstanding Health-Promoting Properties: A Review.

Currently, in many Asian and European countries, a group of mushrooms has been distinguished, which, due to their medicinal and/or dietary properties, are referred to as medicinal mushrooms. Hypsizygus marmoreus is a species valued for its proven nutritional and healing properties. In the scientific literature available so far, mainly from Asian countries, it is possible to find research on the therapeutic effect of H. marmoreus. Biologically active substances, their presence, and in particular, their level in this species have not been the subject of extensive research. The aim of the present review is to describe and summarize the dietary and therapeutic potential of this increasingly popular species among consumers in European countries. Because H. marmoreus is a species with known dietary and health-promoting properties, this species of wood fungi could be commonly obtained from cultivation in European countries.

Therapeutic Potential of Fungal Terpenes and Terpenoids: Application in Skin Diseases.

Terpenes and their derivatives comprise a diverse group of natural compounds with versatile medicinal properties. This article elucidates the general characteristics of fungal terpenes and terpenoids, encompassing their structure and biogenesis. The focal point of this work involves a comprehensive overview of these compounds, highlighting their therapeutic properties, mechanisms of action, and potential applications in treating specific skin conditions. Numerous isolated terpenes and terpenoids have demonstrated noteworthy anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects, rivalling or surpassing the efficacy of currently employed treatments for inflammation or skin infections. Due to their well-documented antioxidant and anti-cancer attributes, these compounds exhibit promise in both preventing and treating skin cancer. Terpenes and terpenoids sourced from fungi display the capability to inhibit tyrosinase, suggesting potential applications in addressing skin pigmentation disorders and cancers linked to melanogenesis dysfunctions. This paper further disseminates the findings of clinical and in vivo research on fungal terpenes and terpenoids conducted thus far.

Comparison of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites and Cytotoxicity of Extracts from Inonotus obliquus Isolates from Different Host Species.

Inonotus obliquus, a wood-decaying mushroom, has been used as a health-promoting supplement and nutraceutical for centuries. It is a source of bioactive compounds accumulated in both the conks (pseudosclerotia/sclerotia) and the biomass obtained in vitro. This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the bioelements and selected metabolites produced in mycelial cultures obtained from different host species. The mycochemical potential of mycelial cultures isolated from pseudosclerotia grown in Betula pendula, Alnus glutinosa, and Carpinus betulus was compared. Parent cultures were obtained in two types of medium (malt extract agar substrates without and with birch wood). Experimental cultures were developed in 2 L bioreactors for 10 days. The content of bioelements was determined using FAAS and FAES methods. Organic compounds were estimated using the RP-HPLC-DAD method. The cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated in human keratinocytes HaCaT, human skin fibroblasts BJ, human liver cancer HepG2, human melanoma A375, and mouse melanoma B16-F10. The extracts showed the presence of bioelements: sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper; phenolic acids: p-hydroxybenzoic, caffeic, p-coumaric, and protocatechuic; sterols: lanosterol, ergosterol, ergosterol peroxide; triterpene compounds: betulin, betulinic acid, inotodiol; indole compounds: L-tryptophan, tryptamine, 5-methyltryptamine, melatonin. The content of bioactive substances in the biomass was dependent on both the origin of the host species of the fungus isolate and the type of culture medium. Based on the results of this study, mycelial cultures can be proposed as a potential source of bioactive compounds and are promising naturally derived cytotoxic agents.

Medicinal potential of mycelium and fruiting bodies of an arboreal mushroom Fomitopsis officinalis in therapy of lifestyle diseases.

Fomitopsis officinalis is a medicinal mushroom used in traditional European eighteenth and nineteenth century folk medicine. Fruiting bodies of F. officinalis were collected from the natural environment of Swietokrzyskie Province with the consent of the General Director for Environmental Protection in Warsaw. Mycelial cultures were obtained from fragments of F. officinalis fruiting bodies. The taxonomic position of the mushroom mycelium was confirmed using the PCR method. The presence of organic compounds was determined by HPLC-DAD analysis. Bioelements were determined by AF-AAS. The biochemical composition of the tested mushroom material was confirmed with the FTIR method. Antioxidant properties were determined using the DPPH method, and the antiproliferative activity was assessed with the use of the MTT test. The presence of indole compounds (L-tryptophan, 6-methyl-D,L-tryptophan, melatonin, 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan), phenolic compounds (p-hydroxybenzoic acid, gallic acid, catechin, phenylalanine), and sterols (ergosterol, ergosterol peroxide) as well as trace elements was confirmed in the mycelium and fruiting bodies of F. officinalis. Importantly, a high level of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan in in vitro mycelium cultures (517.99 mg/100 g d.w) was recorded for the first time. The tested mushroom extracts also showed antioxidant and antiproliferative effects on the A549 lung cancer cell line, the DU145 prostate cancer cell line, and the A375 melanoma cell line.

Imipramine Influences Body Distribution of Supplemental Zinc Which May Enhance Antidepressant Action.

Zinc (Zn) was found to enhance the antidepressant efficacy of imipramine (IMI) in human depression and animal tests/models of depression. However, the underlying mechanism for this effect remains unknown. We measured the effect of intragastric (p.o.) combined administration of IMI (60 mg/kg) and Zn (40 mg Zn/kg) in the forced swim test (FST) in mice. The effect of Zn + IMI on serum, brain, and intestinal Zn concentrations; Zn transporter (ZnT, ZIP) protein levels in the intestine and ZnT in the brain; including BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) protein levels in the brain were evaluated. Finally, the effect of IMI on Zn permeability was measured in vitro in colon epithelial Caco-2 cells. The co-administration of IMI and Zn induced antidepressant-like activity in the FST in mice compared to controls and Zn or IMI given alone. This effect correlated with increased BDNF and the ratio of pCREB/CREB protein levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) compared to the control group. Zn + IMI co-treatment increased Zn concentrations in the serum and brain compared to the control group. However, in serum, co-administration of IMI and Zn decreased Zn concentration compared to Zn alone treatment. Also, there was a reduction in the Zn-induced enhancement of ZnT1 protein level in the small intestine. Zn + IMI also induced an increase in the ZnT4 protein level in the PFC compared to the control group and normalized the Zn-induced decrease in the ZnT1 protein level in the hippocampus (Hp). The in vitro studies revealed enhanced Zn permeability (observed as the increased transfer of Zn through the intestinal cell membrane) after IMI treatment. Our data indicate that IMI enhances Zn transfer through the intestinal tract and influences the redistribution of Zn between the blood and brain. These mechanisms might explain the enhanced antidepressant efficacy of combined IMI/Zn treatment observed in the FST in mice.

Preliminary study on Se-enriched Lentinula edodes mycelium as a proposal of new feed additive in selenium deficiency.

The presence of selenium in European soil is low and this causes its deficiency in livestock and, in consequence, in humans. This study aimed to obtain Lentinula (L.) edodes mycelium with the maximum content of selenium. This species was used for experiment based on its documented medicinal properties. Calves were fed with selenium-enriched L. edodes mycelium, and serum selenium concentration, average daily weight gains and selected immune parameters were estimated. The selenium-enriched mushroom was found to be safe based on cytotoxicity tests (MTT and LDH tests) and for this reason it was used for further experiments. The mean quantity of selenium in the serum of calves fed with selenium-enriched L. edodes mycelium was significantly higher than that of control calves. Additionally, the calves fed with selenium-enriched L. edodes mycelium had higher body weight gains than those of control calves. White blood cell counts and subpopulations of lymphocytes in the experimental and control calves were within the reference range. The administration of L. edodes enriched with selenium had a beneficial effect on state of health of the calves.

Heterobasidion annosum Induces Apoptosis in DLD-1 Cells and Decreases Colon Cancer Growth in In Vivo Model.

Application of substances from medicinal mushrooms is one of the interesting approaches to improve cancer therapy. In this study, we commenced a new attempt in the field of Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. sensu lato to further extend our knowledge on this basidiomycete fungus. For this purpose, analysis of the active substances of Heterobasidion annosum methanolic extract and also its influence on colorectal cancer in terms of in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed. In vivo studies on mice were conducted to verify its acute toxicity and to further affirm its anticancer potential. Results indicated that all the most common substances of best known medicinal mushrooms that are also responsible for their biological activity are present in tested extracts. In vitro tests showed a high hemocompatibility and a significant decrease in viability and proliferation of DLD-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner of Heterobasidion annosum extract. The studies performed on xenograft model of mice showed lower tendency of tumor growth in the group of mice receiving Heterobasidion annosum extract as well as mild or moderate toxicity. Obtained results suggest beneficial potential of Heterobasidion annosum against colon cancer as cytotoxic agent or as adjuvant anticancer therapy.

Selenium and Zinc Biofortification of Pleurotus eryngii Mycelium and Fruiting Bodies as a Tool for Controlling Their Biological Activity.

Pleurotus eryngii (DC:Fr.) Quel. is a cultivated mushroom of high culinary value and medicinal properties. Mycelium of P. eryngii is characterized by the ability of effective bio-elements absorption from growth media so it could be biofortified with trace elements with a functional activity in the human body. In this study, the ability of P. eryngii mycelia from in vitro cultures as well as fruiting bodies were investigated in terms of their effectiveness in zinc and selenium accumulation. The effect of Se and Zn biofortification on productivity, chemical compounds, and bio-elements content of P. eryngii was determined as well. To enhance Se and Zn content in P. eryngii fruiting bodies and mycelia, substrates were supplemented with sodium selenite, at a concentration of 50 mg L-1, zinc sulfate, and zinc hydro-aspartate at a concentration of 87.2 and 100.0 mg L-1, respectively. Mentioned Zn concentrations contained the same amount of zinc(II) ions, namely 20 mg L-1. The content of organic compounds include phenolic compounds and lovastatin, which were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD) and reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method with UV detection. The ability of P. eryngii to accumulate zinc and selenium from the culture medium was demonstrated. The degree of accumulation of zinc turned out to be different depending on the type of salt used. The present study also showed that conducting mycelium of P. eryngii in in vitro culture, with a higher content of zinc ions, can result in obtaining the materials with better antioxidant ability. The results of this study can be used to develop the composition of growing media, which ensures the production of biomass with the desired composition of elements.

Lentinula edodes as a Source of Bioelements Released into Artificial Digestive Juices and Potential Anti-inflammatory Material.

Lentinula edodes (shiitake), an edible and medicinal mushroom, was chosen for this study with the aim of evaluating the possibility of release of bioelements into artificial digestive juices and analyzing the anti-inflammatory properties. The extracts were prepared from fruiting bodies and biomass enriched with copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se). The content of bioelements was analyzed by total reflection X-ray fluorescence method. Relatively low content of elements was observed in the fruiting bodies: Cu-1.6, Zn-7.6, and Se-0.12 mg/100 g d.w. compared to mycelial cultures. The anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated in RAW 264.7 cells. Based on the levels of cyclooxygenase 2 protein, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ determined using Western blot technique, it was found that the addition of bioelements enhanced the anti-inflammatory properties of mycelium. This indicates that L. edodes cultured on a suitable medium may be used as a potential component of anti-inflammatory products.

Assessing the Bioavailability of Zinc and Indole Compounds from Mycelial Cultures of the Bay Mushroom Imleria badia (Agaricomycetes) Using In Vitro Models.

Zinc and indole compounds demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and antioxidant activity. Edible mushrooms are good sources of these substances. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to study the accumulation, release, and absorption of zinc and indole compounds from mycelial cultures of Imleria badia species using in vitro models. Samples were analyzed using the atomic absorption spectroscopy method and the reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography method. The highest quantities of zinc were detected in the material grown on zinc hydrogen aspartate-enriched media (176.01 mg/100 g dry weight [d.w.]). In addition, the quantity of zinc in the control biomass was approximately 12.13 mg/100 g d.w. After passive transport, the amount of zinc was detected to be around 1.40 mg/100 g d.w., whereas after active transport with CaCo-2 cells, the quantity of zinc ranged from 0.46 mg/100 g d.w. to 12.72 mg/100 g d.w. Among the organic compounds, four indole compounds were qualitatively identified, including 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan, melatonin, l-tryptophan, and 5-methyltryptamine. These results indicate that mushrooms and their in vitro cultures not only synthesize and accumulate these compounds, but also potentially release them into the gastrointestinal tract where they can be absorbed by the human body, which is reflected as a specific health benefit.

Anti-Inflammatory Potential of In Vitro Cultures of the White Button Mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (Agaricomycetes), in Caco-2 Cells.

Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom) is one of the most popular culinary-medicinal mushrooms worldwide. This species has for decades been the subject of numerous scientific studies. The aim of this study was to examine the pro- or anti-inflammatory properties of A. bisporus and biomass extracts from in vitro cultures growing in Oddoux medium enriched with α-linolenic acid in colon epithelial Caco-2 cells activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Incubation of Caco-2 cells with A. bisporus extracts resulted in decreased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin F2α receptor compared with the LPS- and/or TNF-α-activated cells, whereas the expression of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 increased after incubation. Interleukin-6 level decreased significantly in Caco-2 cells after supplementation with mushroom extracts. The amounts of monoun-saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids differed significantly in Caco-2 cell membranes after supplementation with A. bisporus extracts. Our findings suggest the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of A. bisporus biomass extracts from in vitro cultures.

Anti-inflammatory activities of garlic sprouts, a source of α-linolenic acid and 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan, in RAW 264.7 cells.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the indolic, phenolic, and fatty acid content and antioxidant activity of garlic sprouts growing in the dark and in the daylight. The pro- or anti-inflammatory properties of the garlic sprout extract were investigated by evaluating the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E synthase (cPGES), glutathione S transferase (GSTM1), nuclear factor NF-κB, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) protein levels in the RAW 264.7 cells activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The highest amount of total indolic (73.56 mg/100 g f.w.) and phenolic compounds (36.23 mg/100 g f.w.) was detected in garlic sprouts grown in the daylight. Studies on antioxidant activity (the FRAP and DPPH method) of garlic sprouts showed that this activity is significantly higher for sprouts grown in full access to light when compared to those grown in the dark. In garlic sprout extracts, α-linolenic acid (ALA) was found to be in greater amount. COX-2 and cPGES level was lower when compared to LPS alone activated cells. After garlic extract treatment, higher level of GSTM1, PPARΥ, cytosolic p50 and p65 protein, as well as a lower NF-ĸB p50/p65 activity was noted in the RAW 264.7 cells which suggested PPARs and AhR transrepression mechanism of NF-ĸB signalling. The obtained results indicate Allium sativum sprouts are a rich source of n-3 fatty acids, indolic and phenolic compounds characterized by anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activity, which may support their high therapeutic and dietary potential.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Biomass Extracts of the Bay Mushroom, Imleria badia (Agaricomycetes), in RAW 264.7 Cells.

The popular edible bay mushroom, Imleria badia, is rich in phenolic and indole compounds, unsaturated fatty acids, and elements that have anti-inflammatory activity, including zinc. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pro- or anti-inflammatory impact of I. badia biomass extracts on RAW 264.7 cells. We analyzed the influence of I. badia extracts and/or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) cotreatment on the fatty acid profile of cell membranes. We also analyzed cyclooxygenase-2, prostaglandin E synthase, glutathione S transferase Mul, and nuclear factor (NF)-κB p50 and p65 protein expression, as well as the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and NF-κB transcription factors. Incubation of cells with I. badia extracts resulted in a decreased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin E2 synthase when compared with the LPS-activated macrophages. Glutathione S transferase Mul expression increased after incubation of cells with I. badia extracts. p50 And p65 NF-κB protein levels were lower in macrophages after extract treatment. Lower activity of NF-κB and higher activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ was observed in cells treated with I. badia extracts in the presence of LPS when compared with cells activated by LPS alone. Our findings suggest the anti-inflammatory properties of I. badia biomass extracts from in vitro cultures, which could contribute to the development of new strategies in the treatment of inflammation.

Determination of Zinc(II) Ions Released into Artificial Digestive Juices from Culinary-Medicinal Button Mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (Agaricomycetidae), Biomass of In Vitro Cultures Using an Anodic Stripping Voltammetry Method.

Zinc is one of those microelements that are essential for the proper functioning of the human body and must be supplemented in our food at a daily dose of 15 mg. It is well known that mushrooms accumulate elements; thus, in order to determine the extent of accumulation and the level of zinc released from mushrooms, in vitro cultures of Agaricus bisporus were established. The cultures were run on a modified Oddoux medium (a control culture) as well as on the same medium with the addition of zinc hydroaspartate (100 and 200 mg/L) and zinc sulfate (87.23 and 174.47 mg/L). These compounds were chosen to help estimate which form, organic or inorganic, results in a better assimilation of zinc(II) ions by biomass. As the next step, the level of zinc(II) ions released from the lyophilized biomass of in vitro cultures to the digestive juices, under thermal conditions of the human body (37°C), was determined. For this purpose, artificial digestive juices, imitating the composition of human digestive juices, were used. For determination of zinc(II) ions in the digestive tract, an anodic stripping voltammetry method was employed. The amount of zinc released into artificial saliva over 1 minute varied from 0.15 mg/100 g d.w. in the control culture to 2.35 mg/100 g d.w. in the biomass in the medium to which 200 mg/L zinc hydroaspartate had been added. Values were higher in gastric juice and depended on incubation time (2.66 to 30.63 mg/100 g d.w.). In intestinal juice, the highest value of the released zinc grew to 24.20 mg/100 g d.w. (biomass of A. bisporus in vitro cultures in medium with the addition of 200 mg/L zinc hydroaspartate). Total average amount of zinc released into artificial digestive juices was the highest (56.26 mg/100 g d.w.) from A. bisporus biomass of in vitro cultures in the medium to which 200 mg/L zinc hydroaspartate had been added.

In vitro culture of Boletus badius as a source of indole compounds and zinc released in artificial digestive juices.

The objective of this study was to obtain the in vitro cultures of Boletus badius under controlled conditions and investigate the release of indole compounds and zinc from the mycelium of B. badius to artificial digestive juices under conditions similar to those in the human gastrointestinal tract. Biomass was obtained from cultures grown using both only the Oddoux medium as well as the same medium with added zinc hydroaspartate and zinc sulfate. The release of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, L-tryptophan, and serotonin from the B. badius biomass extracts to the artificial digestive juices was determined. Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry was used to demonstrate that zinc is released from each of the extracted materials. The total amount of zinc in the materials under study was estimated to be between 7.12 and 44.15 mg/100 g dry weight. It was demonstrated that in vitro cultures of B. badius grown using appropriately selected media may supplement zinc and indole compounds.