Inhibition of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand-mediated osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption by Gryllus bimaculatus extract: An in vitro study.

Excessive bone-resorbing osteoclast activity during bone remodeling is a major feature of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. Therefore, the inhibition of osteoclast formation and bone resorption can be an effective therapeutic target for various bone diseases. Gryllus biomaculatus (GB) has recently been approved as an alternative food source because of its high nutritional value and environmental sustainability. Traditionally, GB has been known to have various pharmacological properties, including antipyretic and blood pressure-lowering activity, and it has recently been reported to have various biological activities, including protective effects against inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and alcohol-induced liver injury. However, the effect of GB on osteoclast differentiation and bone metabolism has not yet been demonstrated. In this study, we confirmed the inhibitory effect of GB extract (GBE) on the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast formation. To determine the effect of GBE on RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and function, we performed TRAP and F-actin staining, as well as a bone-resorbing assay. The intracellular mechanisms of GBE responsible for the regulation of osteoclastogenesis were revealed by Western blot analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. We investigated the relationship between GBE and expression of osteoclast-specific molecules to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms. It was found that GBE significantly suppressed osteoclastogenesis by decreasing the phosphorylation of Akt, p38, JNK, and ERK, as well as Btk-PLCγ2 signaling, in pathways involved in early osteoclastogenesis as well as through the subsequent suppression of c-Fos, NFATc1, and osteoclastogenesis-specific marker genes. Additionally, GBE inhibited the formation of F-actin ring-positive osteoclasts and bone resorption activity of mature osteoclasts. Our findings suggest that GBE is a potential functional food and therapeutic candidate for bone diseases involving osteoclasts.

Differential Digestive Stability of Food-Derived microRNAs: The Case of miR-30c-5p and miR-92a-3p in Polyfloral Honey.

Dietary microRNAs (miRs) represent a new area in food science. Although they have been found in many foods, including honey, more research is needed about their stability and fate during digestion. Hence, this study aimed to analyze the digestive stability of two selected miRs in honey. We extracted miR-92a-3p and miR-30c-5p from pasteurized and unpasteurized forms of polyfloral honey using two different methods and kits: a column-based manual method and a phenol-free semi-automated magnetic-bead-based method. The latter option was used for the subsequent analysis of samples according to the INFOGEST static in vitro digestion protocol. Also, the honey samples were examined for exosome-like particles using dynamic light scattering. Although the expression levels of both miRs were significantly lower following intestinal digestion, we found a difference in the resilience of the miRs to gastrointestinal conditions, with miR-30c-5p being relatively stable compared to miR-92a-3p following digestion, regardless of the honey's pasteurization treatment. Moreover, there was marked heterogeneity in the extracellular vesicle profile of the pasteurized sample. We identified the presence of two broadly conserved miRs in honey: miR-92a-3p and miR-30c-5p. Despite honey exhibiting high digestibility, miR-92a-3p was less resilient than miR-30c-5p, demonstrating considerable resistance under gastrointestinal conditions. Although further research is needed, the results obtained from this study may represent a starting point for utilizing honey as a source of exogenous miRNAs for preventive strategies and more "natural" treatments.

Sickle Cell Disease: Current Drug Treatments and Functional Foods with Therapeutic Potential.

Sickle cell anemia (SCA), the most common form of sickle cell disease (SCD), is a genetic blood disorder. Red blood cells break down prematurely, causing anemia and often blocking blood vessels, leading to chronic pain, organ damage, and increased infection risk. SCD arises from a single-nucleotide mutation in the ß-globin gene, substituting glutamic acid with valine in the ß-globin chain. This review examines treatments evaluated through randomized controlled trials for managing SCD, analyzes the potential of functional foods (dietary components with health benefits) as a complementary strategy, and explores the use of bioactive compounds as functional food ingredients. While randomized trials show promise for certain drugs, functional foods enriched with bioactive compounds also hold therapeutic potential. Further research is needed to confirm clinical efficacy, optimal dosages, and specific effects of these compounds on SCD, potentially offering a cost-effective and accessible approach to managing the disease.

A reverse translational approach reveals the protective roles of Mangifera indica in inflammatory bowel disease.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic intestinal disorders often characterized by a dysregulation of T cells, specifically T helper (Th) 1, 17 and T regulatory (Treg) repertoire. Increasing evidence demonstrates that dietary polyphenols from Mangifera indica L. extract (MIE, commonly known as mango) mitigate intestinal inflammation and splenic Th17/Treg ratio. In this study, we aimed to dissect the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of MIE using a reverse translational approach, by initially using blood from an adult IBD inception cohort and then investigating the mechanism of action in a preclinical model of T cell-driven colitis. Of clinical relevance, MIE modulates TNF-α and IL-17 levels in LPS spiked sera from IBD patients as an ex vivo model of intestinal barrier breakdown. Preclinically, therapeutic administration of MIE significantly reduced colitis severity, pathogenic T-cell intestinal infiltrate and intestinal pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-6, IL-17A, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-22). Moreover, MIE reversed colitis-induced gut permeability and restored tight junction functionality and intestinal metabolites. Mechanistic insights revealed MIE had direct effects on blood vascular endothelial cells, blocking TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced up-regulation of COX-2 and the DP2 receptors. Collectively, we demonstrate the therapeutic potential of MIE to reverse the immunological perturbance during the onset of colitis and dampen the systemic inflammatory response, paving the way for its clinical use as nutraceutical and/or functional food.

Role of green banana consumption in the treatment of acute and persistent diarrhea in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Green banana Musa paradisiaca (GB) has been traditionally used to aid in the treatment of diarrhea. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate current evidence of the effect of GB consumption as a complement to standard treatment in the population with acute or persistent diarrhea. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and LILACS from inception to January 2024; there was no language restriction. Only randomized controlled trials using GB as an intervention were included, and studies using antidiarrheal medication were excluded. A meta-analysis was performed to compare the effect of GB on the resolution of acute and persistent diarrhea. To measure the certainty of evidence, the GRADE assessment was used. Nine randomized controlled trials (seven open and two blinded) were included. Studies were conducted in the pediatric population comprising a total of 3996 patients aged 8 to 34 months, eight studies were written in English and one in Spanish. GB-based food consumption significantly increased the hazard of resolution of diarrhea compared to standard treatment (HR 1.96, 95% CI [1.62; 2.37], p < 0.01; I2 = 52%). The subgroup analysis showed a higher hazard of resolution of diarrhea for children with persistent diarrhea (HR 2.34, 95% CI [1.78; 3.08] compared to acute diarrhea (HR 1.74, 95% CI [1.45; 2.09]).Conclusions: The use of green banana-based foods as a complement to standard treatment in children is probably associated with a faster resolution in acute diarrhea and may aid in the treatment of persistent diarrhea. More clinical trials are necessary to assess if a synergistic effect between GB and other foods exists and proves to be better than GB alone. These findings need to be confirmed in diverse socioeconomic contexts, within the adult population, and under varying health conditionsTrial registration: CRD42024499992.

The Tumor Growth Inhibitory Effect of a Standardized Extract of Cultured Lentinula edodes Mycelia Using Patient Derived Xenograft Model.

Patient derived xenograft (PDX) is a powerful tool to confirm pharmacological efficacy in non-clinical studies for the development of various drugs including anti-cancer agents and therapeutic research. A standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia, a product name AHCC® is produced by Amino Up Co., Ltd. (Sapporo, Japan). In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of AHCC® on the growth of tumor PDX in Super SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency) mice. Effects of AHCC® and BCG administration on the growth of renal cancer PDX implanted in Super SCID mice were evaluated by PDX growth curve. Tendency for the effects on the growth of renal cancer PDX in Super SCID by administration of AHCC® and BCG before implanting the PDX were demonstrated. The effects of the oral administration of AHCC® on the growth of renal, invasive and non-invasive breast cancer PDX in Super SCID mice were studied. In Super SCID mice transplanted with renal cancer PDX, AHCC® significantly suppressed tumor proliferation from the day 48 to 83 after transplantation. In two types of breast cancer PDX, tendency of the growth inhibitory effects of AHCC® were shown by PDX growth curve. Significant inhibitory effect was found at only one time point for during proliferation in each PDX. Super SCID-PDX model has the potential to be a useful tool to investigate for the effect of functional foods.

Consumer's preferences and willingness to pay for immune enhanced dairy products in Canada.

This study examined consumer preferences for, willingness to pay for, and the most preferred mode of delivery for immune enhanced dairy products across Canada. Two sets of choice experiments were designed to evaluate preferences for functional foods and nutraceuticals as the modes of delivery for immune enhanced dairy products. Data (N = 1001) was collected through an online stated preference survey and analyzed using conditional logit model. Results revealed that there is a general consumer interest in immune enhanced dairy products, and consumers place a premium on them. Also, the presence of children below the age of fifteen in a household was a major factor that increased consumer receptivity towards the products. Further results revealed that individuals who usually consume functional foods are less likely to be interested in nutraceuticals, and vice versa, implying that the preferred mode of delivery depended on consumer preferences for either functional foods or nutraceuticals.

Investigation of Physical Characteristics and In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Fucoidan from Padina arborescens: A Comprehensive Assessment against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation.

A biocompatible, heterogeneous, fucose-rich, sulfated polysaccharide (fucoidan) is biosynthesized in brown seaweed. In this study, fucoidan was isolated from Padina arborescens (PAC) using celluclast-assisted extraction, purified, and evaluated for its anti-inflammatory potential in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Structural analyses were performed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy. Among the purified fucoidans, fucoidan fraction 5 (F5) exhibited strong inhibitory activity against LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production and pro-inflammatory cytokine generation through the regulation of iNOS/COX-2, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Determination of the structural characteristics indicated that purified F5 exhibited characteristics similar to those of commercial fucoidan. In addition, further analyses suggested that F5 inhibits LPS-induced toxicity, cell death, and NO generation in zebrafish models. Taken together, these findings imply that P. arborescens fucoidans have exceptional anti-inflammatory action, both in vitro and in vivo, and that they may have prospective uses in the functional food sector.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on immune improvement effects of ethanolic extract of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench in Korean adults.

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP), a medicinal plant native to North America, is now cultivated in various regions including Europe. With increasing popularity of Echinacea in Korea recently, a human clinical trial was conducted to evaluate immune-enhancing efficacy and safety of EP 60% ethanolic extract (EPE) in Koreans. Eighty volunteers were recruited for this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. They were randomly divided into two groups and given either a daily dose of 200 mg of EPE or a placebo. All participants underwent testing for Natural Killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity, serum cytokine levels (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IFN-γ, TNF-α), Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 (WURSS-21), and Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MFS) during this study to assess changes in outcomes. After 8 weeks of EPE consumption, a significant increase in NK cell cytotoxic activity compared to the placebo was observed. Additionally, serum cytokine levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α also significantly increased following EPE consumption. However, no significant changes were observed in WURSS-21 and MFS before and after EPE consumption. Throughout the 8-week study period, no adverse reactions were reported in relation to EPE consumption, and there were no clinically significant changes in diagnostic laboratory tests or vital signs in the EPE group. These results indicate that consumption of EPE could lead to immune improvement without any adverse effects. This clinical trial was the first to demonstrate beneficial effects of EPE consumption on immunity in Korean adults.

Current insights and future perspectives of flavonoids: A promising antihypertensive approach.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure (BP), is a complex disease influenced by various risk factors. It is characterized by persistent elevation of BP levels, typically exceeding 140/90 mmHg. Endothelial dysfunction and reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability play crucial roles in hypertension development. L-NG-nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), an analog of L-arginine, inhibits endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) enzymes, leading to decreased NO production and increased BP. Animal models exposed to L-NAME manifest hypertension, making it a useful design for studying the hypertension condition. Natural products have gained interest as alternative approaches for managing hypertension. Flavonoids, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and other plant sources, have potential cardiovascular benefits, including antihypertensive effects. Flavonoids have been extensively studied in cell cultures, animal models, and, to lesser extent, in human trials to evaluate their effectiveness against L-NAME-induced hypertension. This comprehensive review summarizes the antihypertensive activity of specific flavonoids, including quercetin, luteolin, rutin, troxerutin, apigenin, and chrysin, in L-NAME-induced hypertension models. Flavonoids possess antioxidant properties that mitigate oxidative stress, a major contributor to endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. They enhance endothelial function by promoting NO bioavailability, vasodilation, and the preservation of vascular homeostasis. Flavonoids also modulate vasoactive factors involved in BP regulation, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and endothelin-1. Moreover, they exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, attenuating inflammation-mediated hypertension. This review provides compelling evidence for the antihypertensive potential of flavonoids against L-NAME-induced hypertension. Their multifaceted mechanisms of action suggest their ability to target multiple pathways involved in hypertension development. Nonetheless, the reviewed studies contribute to the evidence supporting the useful of flavonoids for hypertension prevention and treatment. In conclusion, flavonoids represent a promising class of natural compounds for combating hypertension. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource summarizing the current knowledge on the antihypertensive effects of specific flavonoids, facilitating further investigation and guiding the development of novel therapeutic strategies for hypertension management.

A Review of the Ethnobotany, Biological Activity, and Phytochemistry of the Plants in the Gundelia Genus.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, the National Library of Medicine (NLM) catalog, and Google Scholar from January 1980 up until October 2023 on plants in the Gundelia genus. Gundelia L. (Asteraceae) has been treated as a monospecific genus with Gundelia tournefortii L. (1753: 814) in most recent floras with wide variation in corolla color, but nowadays, the genus consists of 17 species. The unripe inflorescences of these species, especially G. tournefortii L., are consumed in many ways. 'Akkoub' or 'akko' in Arabic, "Kangar" in Persian, and "Silifa" in Greek are the common names of G. tournefortii L., also known as tumble thistle in English. They have been used in traditional medicine to treat bronchitis, kidney stones, diarrhea, stomach pain, inflammation, liver and blood diseases, bacterial and fungal infections, and mumps. Based on recent studies, their extracts have exhibited hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Moreover, a variety of phytochemicals, including terpenoids, sterols, and fatty acids, as well as vitamins and minerals, have been identified in this genus. This study reviewed the ethnobotany, phytochemicals, and biological activities of the plants in the Gundelia genus as functional foods and herbal remedies.

Exploring the Biochemical and Nutra-Pharmaceutical Prospects of Some Thymus Species - A Review.

The Thymus genus includes various medicinal and aromatic species, cultivated worldwide for their unique medicinal and economic value. Besides, their conventional use as a culinary flavoring agent, Thymus species are well-known for their diverse biological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-hypertensive properties. Hence, they are used in the treatment of fever, colds, and digestive and cardiovascular diseases. The pharmaceutical significance of Thymus plants is due to their high levels of bioactive components such as natural terpenoid phenol derivatives (p-cymene, carvacrol, thymol, geraniol), flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. This review examines the phytochemicals, biological properties, functional food, and nutraceutical attributes of some important Thymus species, with a specific focus on their potential uses in the nutra-pharmaceutical industries. Furthermore, the review provides an insight into the mechanisms of biological activities of key phytochemicals of Thymus species exploring their potential for the development of novel natural drugs.

Acute Beetroot Juice Supplementation Has No Effect on Upper- and Lower-Body Maximal Isokinetic Strength and Muscular Endurance in International-Level Male Gymnasts.

Nitrate (NO3-) has properties that can improve muscle function, leading to improvements in metabolic cost of exercise as well as enhance force production. Gymnastics is a whole-body sport, involving events that demand a high level of strength and fatigue resistance. However, the effect of NO3- supplementation on both upper- and lower-body function in gymnasts is unknown. This study examined the effect of acute beetroot juice (BRJ) supplementation on isokinetic strength and endurance of the upper- and lower-body in highly trained international-level male gymnasts. In a double-blind, randomized crossover design, 10 international-level male gymnasts completed two acute supplementation periods, consuming either 2 × 70 ml NO3--rich (∼12.8 mmol/L of NO3-) or NO3--depleted (PLA) BRJ. Maximal strength of the upper-leg and upper-arm at 60°/s, 120°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s, and muscular endurance (50 repeated isokinetic contractions at 180°/s) were assessed. Plasma NO3- (BRJ: 663 ± 164 µM, PLA: 89 ± 48 µM) and nitrite (NO2-) concentrations (BRJ: 410 ± 137 nmol/L, PLA: 125 ± 36 nmol/L) were elevated following BRJ compared to PLA (both p < .001). Maximal strength of knee and elbow extensors and flexors did not differ between supplements (p > .05 for all velocities). Similarly, fatigue index of knee and elbow extension and flexion was not different between supplements (all p > .05). Acute BRJ supplementation, containing ∼12.8 mmol/L of NO3-, increased plasma NO3- and NO2- concentrations, but did not enhance isokinetic strength or fatigue resistance of either upper or lower extremities in international-level male gymnasts.

Novel Fermentation Strategies of Strawberry Tree Arbutus unedo Fruits to Obtain High Nutritional Value Products.

The strawberry tree (Arbustus unedo) is a medicinal plant and an important source of biocompounds, potentially useful for pharmaceutical and chemical applications to prevent or treat several human diseases. The strawberry tree fruits have usually been used to produce traditional products such as jams and jellies and to obtain fermented alcoholic drinks, representing the most valuable derivative products. Other fermented products are potentially interesting for their nutritional value; however, the fermentation process needs to be controlled and standardized to obtain high-quality products/ingredients. In this work, we investigated two different fermentative procedures, using strawberry tree whole fruit and fruit paste as matrices inoculated with a selected starter strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae LI 180-7. The physical, chemical, microbiological and nutritional properties of fermented products were evaluated, as well as their antioxidant activity. The new obtained fermented products are enriched in organic acids (acetic acid varied from 39.58 and 57.21 mg/g DW and lactic acid from 85.33 to 114.1 mg/g DW) and have better nutritional traits showing a higher amount of total polyphenols (phenolic acids, flavonoids and anthocyanins) that ranged from 1852 mg GAE/100 g DW to 2682 mg GAE/100 g DW. Also, the amount of isoprenoid increased ranging from 155.5 µg/g DW to 164.61 µg/g DW. In this regard, the most promising strategy seemed to be the fermentation of the fruit paste preparation; while the extract of fermented whole fruits showed the most powerful antioxidant activity. Finally, a preliminary attempt to produce a food prototype enriched in fermented strawberry tree fruits suggested the whole fruit fermented sample as the most promising from a preliminary sensory analysis.

Preparation and Study of the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Nano/Micromicellar Structures Containing Chokeberry Fruit Pomace Extracts Using Egg White and Egg Yolk.

There is currently a growing interest in health-promoting foods. The beneficial effects of food on human health are actively promoted by health professionals and nutritionists. This growing awareness is influencing the increasing range of functional foods and the pursuit of more innovative solutions. Recent research indicates that spherical nanoparticles have the potential to be used as functional biomaterials in the food industry, particularly for encapsulating hydrophobic natural phytochemicals. Techniques and systems based on micro- and nano-encapsulation are of great importance in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It is of paramount importance that encapsulation materials are safe for use in food. The aim of this study was to obtain micelles containing extracts from chokeberry fruit pomace using egg yolk powder (EYP) for emulsification (as a source of lecithin) and egg white powder (EWP) for stabilisation. The structural properties of the micelles in the resulting powders were characterised using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed the presence of spherical micellar structures between 500 and 1000 nm in size. The water activity and water content of the obtained powders were determined, and the thermal (DSC) and antioxidant properties were investigated. The results indicated that the powder with the micellar structures had a higher stability compared to the powder obtained by simple mixing without the use of encapsulation techniques.

Does Resveratrol Improve Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)?

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is influenced by a variety of factors, including environmental and genetic factors. The most significant outcome is the alteration of free fatty acid and triglyceride metabolism. Lipotoxicity, impaired autophagy, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress, as well as coexisting insulin resistance, obesity, and changes in the composition of gut microbiota, are also considered crucial factors in the pathogenesis of MASLD. Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound that belongs to the stilbene subgroup. This review summarises the available information on the therapeutic effects of resveratrol against MASLD. Resveratrol has demonstrated promising antisteatotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities in liver cells in in vitro and animal studies. Resveratrol has been associated with inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, activating the SIRT-1 and AMPK pathways, normalizing the intestinal microbiome, and alleviating intestinal inflammation. However, clinical studies have yielded inconclusive results regarding the efficacy of resveratrol in alleviating hepatic steatosis or reducing any of the parameters found in MASLD in human patients. The lack of homogeneity between studies, low bioavailability of resveratrol, and population variability when compared to animal models could be the reasons for this.

Narirutin-Rich Celluclast Extract from Mandarin (Citrus unshiu) Peel Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity and Promotes Energy Metabolism in C57BL/6 Mice.

Mandarin peel, a main by-product from the processing of citrus juice, has been highlighted for its various bioactivities and functional ingredients. Our previous study proved the inhibitory effects of Celluclast extract from mandarin peel (MPCE) on lipid accumulation and differentiation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of MPCE in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis exhibited that narirutin and hesperidin are the main active components of MPCE. Our current results showed that MPCE supplementation decreased adiposity by reducing body and organ weights in HFD-induced obese mice. MPCE also reduced triglyceride (TG), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and leptin contents in the serum of HFD-fed mice. Moreover, MPCE significantly inhibited hepatic lipid accumulation by regulating the expression levels of proteins associated with lipid metabolism, including sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). Furthermore, MPCE administration significantly inhibited both adipogenesis and lipogenesis, with modulation of energy metabolism by activating 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and lipolytic enzymes such as hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) in the white adipose tissue (WAT). Altogether, our findings indicate that MPCE improves HFD-induced obesity and can be used as a curative agent in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals to alleviate obesity and related disorders.

Drought-Adapted Mediterranean Diet Plants: A Source of Bioactive Molecules Able to Give Nutrigenomic Effects per sè or to Obtain Functional Foods.

The Mediterranean diet features plant-based foods renowned for their health benefits derived from bioactive compounds. This review aims to provide an overview of the bioactive molecules present in some representative Mediterranean diet plants, examining their human nutrigenomic effects and health benefits as well as the environmental advantages and sustainability derived from their cultivation. Additionally, it explores the facilitation of producing fortified foods aided by soil and plant microbiota properties. Well-studied examples, such as extra virgin olive oil and citrus fruits, have demonstrated significant health advantages, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Other less renowned plants are presented in the scientific literature with their beneficial traits on human health highlighted. Prickly pear's indicaxanthin exhibits antioxidant properties and potential anticancer traits, while capers kaempferol and quercetin support cardiovascular health and prevent cancer. Oregano and thyme, containing terpenoids like carvacrol and γ-terpinene, exhibit antimicrobial effects. Besides their nutrigenomic effects, these plants thrive in arid environments, offering benefits associated with their cultivation. Their microbiota, particularly Plant Growth Promoting (PGP) microorganisms, enhance plant growth and stress tolerance, offering biotechnological opportunities for sustainable agriculture. In conclusion, leveraging plant microbiota could revolutionize agricultural practices and increase sustainability as climate change threatens biodiversity. These edible plant species may have crucial importance, not only as healthy products but also for increasing the sustainability of agricultural systems.

In Vitro Digestion of Polyphenolic Compounds and the Antioxidant Activity of Acorn Flour and Pasta Enriched with Acorn Flour.

Acorn flour is a rich source of nutrients and is beneficial to human health due to, among other things, its low glycemic index and polyphenol content. In order to obtain more accurate data on the levels and activities of the substances tested after ingestion and digestion, it may be beneficial to use a simulated in vitro digestion method. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to elucidate the content of polyphenols, individual phenolic acids, flavonoids and antiradical properties of acorn flour and pasta enriched with acorn flour before and after simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The results indicate that the total polyphenol content (TPC), flavonoid content and radical scavenging activity exhibited an increasing trend following the initial digestion stage and a decreasing trend following the second stage. Nevertheless, the levels of phenolic acids demonstrated an increase in both digestion phases. The digestion processes of polyphenols in acorn flour differ significantly from those in pasta. In the case of pasta, total polyphenols, phenolic acids and flavonoids, as well as free radical scavenging properties, demonstrated a decreasing trend following each digestion stage.

Genus Sambucus: Exploring Its Potential as a Functional Food Ingredient with Neuroprotective Properties Mediated by Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms.

The genus Sambucus, mainly Sambucus nigra, has emerged as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with potential neuroprotective properties. This review explores the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroregenerative effects of Sambucus-derived compounds and their implications for brain health and cognitive function. In vitro studies have demonstrated the ability of Sambucus extracts to mitigate oxidative stress, modulate inflammatory responses, and promote neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. In vivo studies using animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, have shown that Sambucus compounds can improve cognitive function, motor performance, and neuronal survival while attenuating neuroinflammation and oxidative damage. The neuroprotective effects of Sambucus are primarily attributed to its rich content of polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, which exert their benefits through multiple mechanisms, including the modulation of signaling pathways involved in inflammation, apoptosis, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress. Furthermore, the potential of Sambucus as a functional food ingredient is discussed, highlighting its application in various food products and the challenges associated with the stability and bioavailability of its bioactive compounds. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the neuroprotective potential of Sambucus and its derivatives, offering valuable insights for the development of dietary strategies to promote brain health and prevent age-related cognitive decline.