Exploring the benefits of astaxanthin as a functional food ingredient: Its effects on oxidative stress and reproductive outcomes in women with PCOS - A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent gynecological-endocrinological disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularities, and metabolic disturbances. Recent research has highlighted the role of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in exacerbating PCOS symptoms and impeding reproductive outcomes. Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant found in marine organisms, has been suggested as a potential therapeutic intervention due to its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This meta-analysis systematically reviews randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of astaxanthin supplementation on oxidative stress and reproductive outcomes in women with PCOS. Data from four trials were analyzed, focusing on markers of oxidative stress and reproductive health metrics. The meta-analysis utilized fixed and random-effects models to synthesize results, with heterogeneity assessed using Chi-square and I2 statistics. The findings indicate that while astaxanthin significantly improves markers of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in follicular fluid, it does not show a consistent effect on other oxidative stress biomarkers such as malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), or superoxide dismutase (SOD). Reproductive outcomes, including oocyte quality and the number of high-quality embryos, showed moderate improvements, although effects on fertilization rates and pregnancy outcomes were insignificant. The analysis highlights variability in study designs and dosing, suggesting a need for further research with standardized protocols and larger sample sizes. Future studies should focus on determining optimal dosing, exploring mechanistic pathways, and investigating the combined effects of astaxanthin with other interventions. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess long-term benefits and safety, and personalized approaches could enhance treatment efficacy for individuals with PCOS.

Mechanisms and effects of AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist, on ovarian granulosa cells-a systematic review.

Granulosa cells, crucial components of ovarian follicles, play a fundamental role in follicle development, hormone production, and overall reproductive health. These cells are integral to steroidogenesis, including the synthesis and secretion of key hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Dysregulation of granulosa cells can lead to reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility. This systematic review provides a comprehensive evaluation of AdipoRon, a synthetic agonist of adiponectin receptors AdipoR1 and AdipoR2, and its effects on ovarian function, with a particular focus on granulosa cells. Due to the absence of clinical trials, the review centers on preclinical studies to explore AdipoRon's potential therapeutic benefits and to suggest future research directions. A detailed literature search across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar was conducted using terms related to AdipoRon and ovarian function. The review encompasses four preclinical studies involving various models: primary granulosa cells from rats, laying hens' granulosa cells, human luteinized granulosa cells, and chicken ovary follicles. Findings indicate that AdipoRon enhances glucose absorption in rat granulosa cells by stimulating glucose transporter 1 expression, modulates steroid hormone secretion in laying hens' granulosa cells, and affects cell proliferation and steroidogenesis in human luteinized granulosa cells. Additionally, AdipoRon, in conjunction with recombinant chicken adiponectin, influences ovarian follicular cell proliferation and steroidogenesis in chicken ovary follicles. This review highlights the need for further investigation into AdipoRon's long-term effects and its potential applications in reproductive health and therapy.

Curcumin: A Golden Approach to Healthy Aging: A Systematic Review of the Evidence.

Aging-related disorders pose significant challenges due to their complex interplay of physiological and metabolic factors, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Curcumin, a natural compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has emerged as a promising candidate for mitigating these age-related processes. However, gaps in understanding the precise mechanisms of curcumin's effects and the optimal dosages for different conditions necessitate further investigation. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on curcumin's potential in addressing age-related disorders, emphasizing its impact on cognitive function, neurodegeneration, and muscle health in older adults. By evaluating the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action of curcumin supplementation, this review aims to provide insights into its therapeutic potential for promoting healthy aging. A systematic search across three databases using specific keywords yielded 2256 documents, leading to the selection of 15 clinical trials for synthesis. Here, we highlight the promising potential of curcumin as a multifaceted therapeutic agent in combating age-related disorders. The findings of this review suggest that curcumin could offer a natural and effective approach to enhancing the quality of life of aging individuals. Further research and well-designed clinical trials are essential to validate these findings and optimize the use of curcumin in personalized medicine approaches for age-related conditions.

Unraveling the rationale and conducting a comprehensive assessment of AdipoRon (adiponectin receptor agonist) as a candidate drug for diabetic nephropathy and cardiomyopathy prevention and intervention-a systematic review.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widespread chronic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, leading to severe complications such as diabetic cardiomyopathy and nephropathy, significantly affecting patient health and quality of life. The complex mechanisms underlying these complications include chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysregulation. Diabetic cardiomyopathy, marked by structural and functional heart abnormalities, and diabetic nephropathy, characterized by progressive kidney damage, are major contributors to the increased morbidity and mortality associated with T2DM. AdipoRon, a synthetic adiponectin receptor agonist, has shown potential in preclinical studies for mimicking the beneficial effects of endogenous adiponectin, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and improving lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function. This systematic review evaluates the therapeutic potential of AdipoRon, focusing on its impact on diabetic cardiomyopathy and nephropathy. Through a comprehensive literature search and analysis, we highlight AdipoRon's role in ameliorating cardiovascular and renal complications in various animal models and cellular systems. The findings underscore the urgent need for translational clinical studies to validate AdipoRon's efficacy and safety in human populations, aiming to advance this promising therapeutic approach from experimental models to clinical application, potentially offering new hope for improved management of diabetic complications.

Glycolipid Metabolic Disorders, Metainflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Cardiovascular Diseases: Unraveling Pathways.

Glycolipid metabolic disorders (GLMDs) are various metabolic disorders resulting from dysregulation in glycolipid levels, consequently leading to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, liver dysfunction, neuromuscular complications, and cardiorenal vascular diseases (CRVDs). In patients with GLMDs, excess caloric intake and a lack of physical activity may contribute to oxidative stress (OxS) and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to review the connection between GLMD, OxS, metainflammation, and the onset of CRVD. GLMD is due to various metabolic disorders causing dysfunction in the synthesis, breakdown, and absorption of glucose and lipids in the body, resulting in excessive ectopic accumulation of these molecules. This is mainly due to neuroendocrine dysregulation, insulin resistance, OxS, and metainflammation. In GLMD, many inflammatory markers and defense cells play a vital role in related tissues and organs, such as blood vessels, pancreatic islets, the liver, muscle, the kidneys, and adipocytes, promoting inflammatory lesions that affect various interconnected organs through their signaling pathways. Advanced glycation end products, ATP-binding cassette transporter 1, Glucagon-like peptide-1, Toll-like receptor-4, and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) play a crucial role in GLMD since they are related to glucolipid metabolism. The consequences of this is system organ damage and increased morbidity and mortality.

Ginkgo biloba: A Leaf of Hope in the Fight against Alzheimer's Dementia: Clinical Trial Systematic Review.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a stealthy and progressive neurological disorder that is a leading cause of dementia in the global elderly population, imposing a significant burden on both the elderly and society. Currently, the condition is treated with medications that alleviate symptoms. Nonetheless, these drugs may not consistently produce the desired results and can cause serious side effects. Hence, there is a vigorous pursuit of alternative options to enhance the quality of life for patients. Ginkgo biloba (GB), an herb with historical use in traditional medicine, contains bioactive compounds such as terpenoids (Ginkgolides A, B, and C), polyphenols, organic acids, and flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin). These compounds are associated with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, making them valuable for cognitive health. A systematic search across three databases using specific keywords-GB in AD and dementia-yielded 1702 documents, leading to the selection of 15 clinical trials for synthesis. In eleven studies, GB extract/EGb 761® was shown to improve cognitive function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and functional abilities in both dementia types. In four studies, however, there were no significant differences between the GB-treated and placebo groups. Significant improvements were observed in scores obtained from the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Short Cognitive Performance Test (SKT), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). While the majority of synthesized clinical trials show that Ginkgo biloba has promising potential for the treatment of these conditions, more research is needed to determine optimal dosages, effective delivery methods, and appropriate pharmaceutical formulations. Furthermore, a thorough assessment of adverse effects, exploration of long-term use implications, and investigation into potential drug interactions are critical aspects that must be carefully evaluated in future studies.

Effects of Smallanthus sonchifolius Flour on Metabolic Parameters: A Systematic Review.

Smallanthus sonchifolius, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its high fructo-oligosaccharide and inulin content, as well as flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids. Roots can be used to produce flour, which is less perishable and can be applied in various industrial products. This systematic review focuses on the effects of yacon flour on metabolic parameters. PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were consulted, and PRISMA guidelines were followed in the selection of the studies. In total, 526 articles were found in the databases, and of these, only 28 full texts were eligible for inclusion. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven studies were finally included. The results showed that the use of yacon flour can reduce glycemia, HbA1c, advanced glycation ends, plasma lipids, body fat mass, body weight, and waist circumference and improve intestinal microbiota and the antioxidant status. Further exploration of the effects of yacon flour is warranted, and additional clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal daily consumption levels required to assist in improving metabolic parameters.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) phytochemicals target the components of metabolic syndrome.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a multipurpose dietary and medicinal plant known for its ability to promote various health benefits. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex metabolic disorder driving health and socioeconomic challenges worldwide. It may be characterized by insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. This study aims to conduct a review of pomegranate's effects on MetS parameters using a mechanistic approach relying on pre-clinical studies. The peel, juice, roots, bark, seeds, flowers, and leaves of the fruit present several bioactive compounds that are related mainly to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities as well as cardioprotective, antidiabetic, and antiobesity effects. The use of the juice extract can work as a potent inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme activities, consequently regulating blood pressure. The major bioactive compounds found within the fruit are phenolic compounds (hydrolysable tannins and flavonoids) and fatty acids. Alkaloids, punicalagin, ellagitannins, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, tannins, flavonoids, luteolin, and punicic acid are also present. The antihyperglycemia, antihyperlipidemia, and weight loss promoting effects are likely related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When considering clinical application, pomegranate extracts are found to be frequently well-tolerated, further supporting its efficacy as a treatment modality. We suggest that pomegranate fruit, extract, or processed products can be used to counteract MetS-related risk factors. This review represents an important step towards exploring potential avenues for further research in this area.

Underlying Mechanisms behind the Brain-Gut-Liver Axis and Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD): An Update.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) includes several metabolic dysfunctions caused by dysregulation in the brain-gut-liver axis and, consequently, increases cardiovascular risks and fatty liver dysfunction. In MAFLD, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and metabolic syndrome are frequently present; these conditions are related to liver lipogenesis and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to review the connection between the brain-gut-liver axis and MAFLD. The inflammatory process, cellular alterations in hepatocytes and stellate cells, hypercaloric diet, and sedentarism aggravate the prognosis of patients with MAFLD. Thus, to understand the modulation of the physiopathology of MAFLD, it is necessary to include the organokines involved in this process (adipokines, myokines, osteokines, and hepatokines) and their clinical relevance to project future perspectives of this condition and bring to light new possibilities in therapeutic approaches. Adipokines are responsible for the activation of distinct cellular signaling in different tissues, such as insulin and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which is important for balancing substances to avoid MAFLD and its progression. Myokines improve the quantity and quality of adipose tissues, contributing to avoiding the development of MAFLD. Finally, hepatokines are decisive in improving or not improving the progression of this disease through the regulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory organokines.

Investigating the Incidence of Dyslipidemia among Brazilian Children and Adolescents Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) has always been a challenge for health professionals in relation to glycemic control. Increased body fat has been related to a worsening of the lipid profile and increased prevalence of dyslipidemia in this population, leading to negative repercussions on the control of cardiovascular risk. We aimed to investigate the distribution of lipid levels and the presence of dyslipidemia in children and adolescents with T1DM. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 81 individuals of both sexes (4-19 years) diagnosed with T1DM. Anthropometric and biochemical data were collected, in addition to data on physical activity level, sexual maturation stage, and insulin administration regimen. Lipid levels were categorized as normal, borderline, and elevated, and the presence of dyslipidemia was diagnosed by the presence of one or more altered lipid parameter. We noted a prevalence of dyslipidemia in 65.4% of the participants when considering borderline lipid values. Of those, 23.5% had one altered lipid level, and 42.0% had two or more. The main altered lipid levels were total cholesterol and triglycerides, followed by non-HDL-c. The main factor associated with the worsening of lipid levels was the increase in HbA1c. Sex had a significant effect on the levels of TC, HDL-c, and ApoA-I. The results of this study reinforce the need to monitor lipid profile in children and adolescents with T1DM, as well as the importance of early intervention in treating dyslipidemia, especially in patients with poor glycemic control.

Exploring the logic and conducting a comprehensive evaluation of AdipoRon-based adiponectin replacement therapy against hormone-related cancers-a systematic review.

The potential benefits of adiponectin replacement therapy extend to numerous human diseases, with current research showing particular interest in its effectiveness against specific cancer forms, especially hormone-related. However, limitations in the pharmacological use of the intact protein have led to a focus on alternative options. AdipoRon is an extensively studied non-peptidic drug candidate for adiponectin replacement therapy. While researchers have explored the efficacy and therapeutic applications of AdipoRon in various disease conditions, their effects against cancer models advanced more, with no review regarding AdipoRon's efficacy against hormone-related cancers being published. The present systematic review aims to fill this gap. Preclinical evidence was compiled from PubMed, EMBASE, COCHRANE, and Google Scholar following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the manuscript's quality assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist Critical Appraisal Tool for Systematic Reviews' Quality. The included nine studies incorporated various cell and animal models of the pancreas, gynaecological system, and osteosarcoma cancers. AdipoRon demonstrated effectiveness against pancreatic cancer by activating p44/42 MAPK, mitochondrial dysfunction, and AMPK-mediated inhibition of ACC1. In gynaecological cancers, it exhibited promising anticancer effects through the activation of AMPK, potential inhibition of mTOR, and modulation of the SET1B/BOD1/AdipoR1 signaling cascade. Against osteosarcoma, AdipoRon worked by perturbing ERK1/2 signaling and reducing p70S6K phosphorylation. AdipoRon shows promise in preclinical studies, but human trials are crucial for clinical safety and effectiveness. Caution is needed due to potential off-target effects, especially in cancer therapy with multi-target approaches. Structural biology and computational methods can help predict these effects.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds and by-products in metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disorders: A systematic review of clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the leading cause of death worldwide. The main risk factors are hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and increased serum lipids. The peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), also known as the groundnut, goober, pindar, or monkey nut, belongs to the Fabaceae family and is the fourth most cultivated oilseed in the world. The seeds and skin of peanuts possess a rich phytochemical profile composed of antioxidants, such as phenolic acids, stilbenes, flavonoids, and phytosterols. Peanut consumption can provide numerous health benefits, such as anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and hypolipidemic effects. Accordingly, peanuts have the potential to treat CVD and counteract its risk factors. PURPOSE: This study aims to critically evaluate the effects of peanuts on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and CVD risk factors based on clinical studies. METHOD: This review includes studies indexed in MEDLINE-PubMed, COCHRANE, and EMBASE, and the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were adhered to. RESULTS: Nineteen studies were included and indicated that the consumption of raw peanuts or differing forms of processed foods containing peanut products and phytochemicals could improve metabolic parameters, such as glycemia, insulinemia, glycated hemoglobin, lipids, body mass index, waist circumference, atherogenic indices, and endothelial function. CONCLUSION: We propose that this legume and its products be used as a sustainable and low-cost alternative for the prevention and treatment of MetS and CVD. However, further research with larger sample sizes, longer intervention durations, and more diverse populations is needed to understand the full benefit of peanut consumption in MetS and CVD.

Quality of life in sarcopenia measured with the SarQoL questionnaire: A meta-analysis of individual patient data.

Age-related sarcopenia, resulting from a gradual loss in skeletal muscle mass and strength, is pivotal to the increased prevalence of functional limitation among the older adult community. The purpose of this meta-analysis of individual patient data is to investigate the difference in health-related quality of life between sarcopenic individuals and those without the condition using the Sarcopenia Quality of Life (SarQoL) questionnaire. A protocol was published on PROSPERO. Multiple databases and the grey literature were searched until March 2023 for studies reporting quality of life assessed with the SarQoL for patients with and without sarcopenia. Two researchers conducted the systematic review independently. A two-stage meta-analysis was performed. First, crude (mean difference) and adjusted (beta coefficient) effect sizes were calculated within each database; then, a random effect meta-analysis was applied to pool them. Heterogeneity was measured using the Q-test and I2 value. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate the source of potential heterogeneity. The strength of evidence of this association was assessed using GRADE. From the 413 studies identified, 32 were eventually included, of which 10 were unpublished data studies. Sarcopenic participants displayed significantly reduced health-related quality of life compared with non-sarcopenic individuals (mean difference = -12.32; 95 % CI = [-15.27; -9.37]). The model revealed significant heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses revealed a substantial impact of regions, clinical settings, and diagnostic criteria on the difference in health-related quality of life between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic individuals. The level of evidence was moderate. This meta-analysis of individual patient data suggested that sarcopenia is associated with lower health-related quality of life measured with SarQoL.

Mangifera indica L., By-Products, and Mangiferin on Cardio-Metabolic and Other Health Conditions: A Systematic Review.

Mango and its by-products have traditional medicinal uses. They contain diverse bioactive compounds offering numerous health benefits, including cardioprotective and metabolic properties. This study aimed to explore the impact of mango fruit and its by-products on human health, emphasizing its metabolic syndrome components. PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANE, and GOOGLE SCHOLAR were searched following PRISMA guidelines, and the COCHRANE handbook was utilized to assess bias risks. In vivo and in vitro studies have shown several benefits of mango and its by-products. For this systematic review, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. The collective findings indicated that the utilization of mango in various forms-ranging from fresh mango slices and mango puree to mango by-products, mango leaf extract, fruit powder, and mangiferin-yielded many favorable effects. These encompassed enhancements in glycemic control and improvements in plasma lipid profiles. Additionally, mango reduces food intake, elevates mood scores, augments physical performance during exercise, improves endothelial function, and decreases the incidence of respiratory tract infections. Utilizing mango by-products supports the demand for healthier products. This approach also aids in environmental conservation. Furthermore, the development of mango-derived nanomedicines aligns with sustainable goals and offers innovative solutions for healthcare challenges whilst being environmentally conscious.

Unraveling the rationale and conducting a comprehensive assessment of KD025 (Belumosudil) as a candidate drug for inhibiting adipogenic differentiation-a systematic review.

Rho-associated kinases (ROCKs) are crucial during the adipocyte differentiation process. KD025 (Belumosudil) is a newly developed inhibitor that selectively targets ROCK2. It has exhibited consistent efficacy in impeding adipogenesis across a spectrum of in vitro models of adipogenic differentiation. Given the novelty of this treatment, a comprehensive systematic review has not been conducted yet. This systematic review aims to fill this knowledge void by providing readers with an extensive examination of the rationale behind KD025 and its impacts on adipogenesis. Preclinical evidence was gathered owing to the absence of clinical trials. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the study's quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist Critical Appraisal Tool for Systematic Reviews. In various in vitro models, such as 3T3-L1 cells, human orbital fibroblasts, and human adipose-derived stem cells, KD025 demonstrated potent anti-adipogenic actions. At a molecular level, KD025 had significant effects, including decreasing fibronectin (Fn) expression, inhibiting ROCK2 and CK2 activity, suppressing lipid droplet formation, and reducing the expression of proadipogenic genes peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα). Additionally, KD025 resulted in the suppression of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4 or AP2) expression, a decrease in sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and Glut-4 expression. Emphasis must be placed on the fact that while KD025 shows potential in preclinical studies and experimental models, extensive research is crucial to assess its efficacy, safety, and potential therapeutic applications thoroughly and directly in human subjects.

Organokines in COVID-19: A Systematic Review.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 that induces a generalized inflammatory state. Organokines (adipokines, osteokines, myokines, hepatokines, and cardiokines) can produce beneficial or harmful effects in this condition. This study aimed to systematically review the role of organokines on COVID-19. PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases were searched, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and 37 studies were selected, comprising more than 2700 individuals infected with the virus. Among COVID-19 patients, organokines have been associated with endothelial dysfunction and multiple organ failure due to augmented cytokines and increased SARS-CoV-2 viremia. Changes in the pattern of organokines secretion can directly or indirectly contribute to aggravating the infection, promoting immune response alterations, and predicting the disease progression. These molecules have the potential to be used as adjuvant biomarkers to predict the severity of the illness and severe outcomes.

Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation in Diabetic Kidney Disease: An Systematic Review.

Diabetes Mellitus is a highly prevalent condition in which Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is the most common. Diabetic Kidney Disease is one of the most relevant complications and affects approximately one-third of patients with Diabetes Mellitus. It is characterized by increased urinary protein excretion and a decrease in glomerular filtration rate, assessed by serum creatinine levels. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D levels are low in these patients. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the effects of vitamin D supplementation on proteinuria and creatinine, which are important markers for assessing the severity of kidney disease in patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease. PUBMED, EMBASE, and COCHRANE databases were consulted, Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed, and the COCHRANE toll for bias assessment was applied. Six papers were quantitative studies and fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this review. The results showed that vitamin D supplementation of 50,000 I.U./week for 8 weeks effectively reduced proteinuria and creatinine in patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease, particularly in patients with Diabetes Mellitus type 2. Vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease by having essential effects on disease-related inflammatory markers, such as the reduction of proteinuria and creatinine. However, more clinical trials must be conducted to evaluate the intervention among more significant numbers of patients.

The Relationship between Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, TNF-α, and IL-10 Gene Expression.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the major chronic diseases in children worldwide. This study aimed to investigate interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene expression and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in T1DM. A total of 107 patients were included, 15 were T1DM in ketoacidosis, 30 patients had T1DM and HbA1c ≥ 8%; 32 patients had T1DM and presented HbA1c < 8%; and 30 were controls. The expression of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was performed using the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in real time. The cytokines gene expression was higher in patients with T1DM. The IL-10 gene expression increased substantially in patients with ketoacidosis, and there was a positive correlation with HbA1c. A negative correlation was found for IL-10 expression and the age of patients with diabetes, and the time of diagnosis of the disease. There was a positive correlation between TNF-α expression with age. The expression of IL-10 and TNF-α genes showed a significant increase in DM1 patients. Once current T1DM treatment is based on exogenous insulin, there is a need for other therapies, and inflammatory biomarkers could bring new possibilities to the therapeutic approach of the patients.

Effects of Medicinal Plants and Phytochemicals in Nrf2 Pathways during Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Related Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are related to nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) dysregulation. In vitro and in vivo studies using phytocompounds as modulators of the Nrf2 signaling in IBD have already been published. However, no existing review emphasizes the whole scenario for the potential of plants and phytocompounds as regulators of Nrf2 in IBD models and colitis-associated colorectal carcinogenesis. For these reasons, this study aimed to build a review that could fill this void. The PubMed, EMBASE, COCHRANE, and Google Scholar databases were searched. The literature review showed that medicinal plants and phytochemicals regulated the Nrf2 on IBD and IBD-associated colorectal cancer by amplifying the expression of the Nrf2-mediated phase II detoxifying enzymes and diminishing NF-κB-related inflammation. These effects improve the bowel environment, mucosal barrier, colon, and crypt disruption, reduce ulceration and microbial translocation, and consequently, reduce the disease activity index (DAI). Moreover, the modulation of Nrf2 can regulate various genes involved in cellular redox, protein degradation, DNA repair, xenobiotic metabolism, and apoptosis, contributing to the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) in Health and Disease: A Critical Review.

The açaí palm (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a species belonging to the Arecaceae family, has been cultivated for thousands of years in tropical Central and South America as a multipurpose dietary plant. The recent introduction of açaí fruit and its nutritional and healing qualities to regions outside its origin has rapidly expanded global demand for açaí berry. The health-promoting and disease-preventing properties of this plant are attributed to numerous bioactive phenolic compounds present in the leaf, pulp, fruit, skin, and seeds. The purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date, comprehensive, and critical evaluation of the health benefits of açaí and its phytochemicals with a special focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that açaí possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and exerts cardioprotective, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, renoprotective, antilipidemic, antidiabetic, and antineoplastic activities. Moreover, clinical trials have suggested that açaí can protect against metabolic stress induced by oxidation, inflammation, vascular abnormalities, and physical exertion. Due to its medicinal properties and the absence of undesirable effects, açaí shows a promising future in health promotion and disease prevention, in addition to a vast economic potential in the food and cosmetic industries.