Nutraceutical Research Articles

Mix-match synthesis of nanosynbiotics from probiotics and prebiotics to counter gut dysbiosis via AI integrated formulation profiling

Antibiotics, improper food, and stress have created a dysbiotic state in the gut and almost 81% of the world’s population has been affected due to the pandemic of COVID-19 and the prevalence of dengue virus in the past few years. The main intent of this study is to synthesize nanosynbiotics as nu traceuticals by combining probiotics, and prebiotics with nanoformulation. The effectiveness of the nanosynbiotics was evaluated using a variety of Nutra-pharmacogenetic assays leading to an AI-integrated formulation profiling was assessed by using machine learning methods. Consequently, Acetobacter oryzoeni as a probiotic and inulin as a prebiotic has been chosen and iron-mediated nanoformulation of symbiotic is achieved. Nanosynbiotics possessed 89.4, 96.7, 93.57, 83.53, 88.53% potential powers of Nutra-pharmacogenetic assays. Artificial intelligent solid dispersion formulation of nanosynbiotics has high dissolution, absorption, distribution, and synergism, in addition, they are non-tox, non-allergen and have a docking score of − 10.83 kcal/mol, implying the best interaction with Pregnane X receptor involved in dysbiosis. The potential of nanosynbiotics to revolutionize treatment strategies through precise targeting and modulation of the gut microbiome for improved health outcomes and disease management is promising. Their transformational influence is projected to be powered by integration with modern technology and customized formulas. Further in-vivo studies are required for the validation of nanosynbiotics as nutraceuticals.

Exploring Nutraceuticals: A Comprehensive Examination of Inception, Thematic Mapping, Evolution, Emerging Trends, and Gaps

Nutraceuticals (NCs) refer to food or dietary components that include medicinal or health-promoting properties, potentially aiding in preventing and managing specific diseases. Nutraceutical research (NCR) has made significant strides, but several gaps still need to be addressed. The study's main objective is to analyze the inception and current state of NCs, identify research gaps, and map out potential areas for future investigation in the field of NCR. The study utilized the Scopus database to gather bibliographic data through MesH-generated keywords. The search encompassed English-language original research without limitations on chronology or geography. The PRISMA methodology was employed to refine the search results. The Bibliometrix software tool, based on the R programming language, analyzes 16,030 research publications. Since 1993, NCR has experienced exponential growth of 27.27% (R2 = 0.929). Italy and the United States are the leading countries regarding publications and citations. The most prolific scholar in NCR is McClements, D.J. The research findings highlight that the antioxidant properties of plant extracts, pathophysiology of diet- and age-induced diabetes, pharmaceutical formulations, and drug delivery routes are the most cited research directions. Thematic mapping of NCR reveals a need for motor and emerging themes, with key clusters including "nutraceuticals," "antioxidant activity," and "curcumin." The thematic evolution of NCR's themes experienced a turning point in 2020. As a result, trending topics in NCR include Castanea sativa, authentication, lipophilicity, bioactive compounds, molecular docking, COVID-19, autophagy, gut microbiota, and sustainability. The study helps bridge research gaps and promotes the safe and effective use of nutraceuticals for human health. It provides valuable benefits for researchers, including identifying interesting authors, popular research areas, and collaboration opportunities. Furthermore, the findings can inform decision-makers in making strategic and informed decisions regarding policy, finance, and resource allocation in the field of nutraceutical research.

NUTRARET: Effect of 2-Year Nutraceutical Supplementation on Redox Status and Visual Function of Patients With Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of 2-year nutritional intervention with antioxidant nutraceuticals on the visual function of RP patients. Secondly, we assessed how nutritional intervention affected ocular and systemic redox status. We carried out a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Thirty-one patients with RP participated in the study. RP patients randomly received either a mixture of nutraceuticals (NUT) containing folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin A, zinc, copper, selenium, lutein, and zeaxanthin or placebo daily for 2 years. At baseline and after 2-year of the nutritional supplementation, visual function, dietetic-nutritional evaluations, serum concentration of nutraceuticals, plasma and aqueous humor concentration of several markers of redox status and inflammation were assessed. Retinal function and structure were assessed by multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG), spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and automated visual field (VF) tests. Nutritional status was estimated with validated questionnaires. Total antioxidant capacity, extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, protein carbonyl adducts (CAR) content, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) formation (as indicator of lipid peroxidation), metabolites of the nitric oxide (NOX) and cytokine (interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha) concentrations were assessed by biochemical and immunological techniques in aqueous humor or/and blood. Bayesian approach was performed to determine the probability of an effect. Region of practical equivalence (ROPE) was used. At baseline, Bayesian analysis revealed a high probability of an altered ocular redox status and to a lesser extent systemic redox status in RP patients compared to controls. Twenty-five patients (10 in the treated arm and 15 in the placebo arm) completed the nutritional intervention. After 2 years of supplementation, patients who received NUT presented better retinal responses (mfERG responses) compared to patients who received placebo. Besides, patients who received NUT showed better ocular antioxidant response (SOD3 activity) and lower oxidative damage (CAR) than those who received placebo. This study suggested that long-term NUT supplementation could slow down visual impairment and ameliorate ocular oxidative stress.

The Protective Effect of a Nutraceutical Solution in an Experimental Rat Model of Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion

Introduction: Liver ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury occurs in transplantation, liver resections, and causes important local and systemic damage. Its pathophysiology involves many signalling pathways and motivates studies that are concerned with using substances to combat this injury. Nutraceuticals (NUT) are bioactive compounds present in foods, which apart from having a nutritional role, provide health-promoting or prevention properties. There is a lack of studies that are concerned in evaluating the effects of NUT on liver IRI.

The impact of combined nutraceutical supplementation on work-related stress, mood and eating disorders during the menopausal transition: A pilot study

The impact of combined nutraceutical supplementation on work-related stress, mood and eating disorders during the menopausal transition: A pilot study

Immune stimulating and galectin-3 inhibitory effects of a hydrophilic polysaccharide nutraceutical from Tinospora cordifolia

Tinospora cordifolia is an important ayurvedic herb known for its immune stimulating effect. In this investigation, we describe the galectin-3 inhibitory and immune stimulating properties of a novel water-soluble nutraceutical made from Tinospora cordifolia stem. This proprietary extract (T2CA) had a total yield of 6% and contained 86.9% carbohydrates with a high proportion of patented (1,4)-α-D-glucan in it. The T2CA activated T-cytotoxic and NK cells significantly contributing to its immune stimulating effect. Moreover, T2CA induced the activation of functional NK cells in human lymphocyte cultures that in turn contributed to the death of K562 leukemic cells in a dose-dependent manner in co-culture experiments. T2CA inhibited the expression of phosphorylated galectin-3 expression in human glioblastoma cell line which in turn inhibits the activity of MMP2 and MMP9 proteins in zymography investigations and inhibits migration of cancer cells in in vitro scratch assay. Western blot hybridization studies showed that T2CA downregulates the expression of total gal 3 proteins and extended the survival of AKR/J mice injected with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in the Kepler-Meier survival curve analysis. The inhibitory effect of T2CA on phopho-galectin-3 expression and the activation of T-cytotoxic and NK cells suggested its protective effects against pathogenic infections and human malignancies via its immune stimulating mechanisms.

Influência do tempo de infusão nas características físico-químicas e no conteúdo de compostos bioativos nutracêuticos de folha de mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes)

A folhas da mangabeira são popularmente utilizadas no preparo de chás e infusões com fins medicinais. Infusões de ervas apresentam propriedades benéficas devido as substâncias bioativas que atuam como antioxidantes. Assim, o objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as características físico-químicas e o conteúdo de compostos bioativos nutracêuticos e, verificar a influência do tempo em infusões de folhas de mangaba. As infusões foram preparadas em triplicada a 5 e 10 (I5 e I10) minutos, adicionando 1 g de material vegetal in natura em 50 mL de água fervente. Foram efetuadas análises para caracterização físico-química das folhas in natura, infusões e resíduos: cor e índice de escurecimento (I.E.); sólidos solúveis totais em ºBrix e; pH. As análises dos compostos bioativos foram: clorofilas, carotenóides e fenóis totais. Nas análises físico-químicas, o teor de sólidos solúveis totais não variou significativamente, indicando que os tempos analisados extraíram conteúdos similares. O I.E. permaneceu constante, indicando que o tratamento térmico não foi associado com a ativação enzimática e escurecimento. Entretanto, o tempo de infusão afetou significativamente os fitoquímicos. Os valores de clorofila total e suas frações variaram com diminuição progressiva em comparação da folha in natura em diferentes tempos de infusão, bem como os carotenóides totais, β-caroteno e fenóis, o que sugere influência do tempo na quantidade desses compostos presentes nas infusões, sendo que, a I5 proporcionou menor perda dos compostos comparado à I10, podendo correlacionar-se positivamente com a concentração de flavonóides e com a atividade antioxidante.

Nutraceuticals as immune-stimulating therapy to fight COVID-19. Combination of elements to improve the efficacy.

COVID-19 pandemic has underlined that unknown viral infections, which jump from animals to humans, can be extremely dangerous. In case of new viruses as SARS-CoV2, available drugs can fail to contrast the virus aggressiveness leading patients to death. Long time is necessary to create a vaccine, but immediate solutions are necessary to stop the mortality COVID-19 related. We have learned that the immune-system is the key to reduce the severity of COVID-19 and, through its modulation, it has been possible saving people's life. In this short communication, we discuss the use of nutraceuticals to modulate and stimulate the immune answer for reducing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. The nutraceuticals are safe and can be administered to all ages. In addition, combination of natural anti-viral elements and immune-stimulating molecules already successfully tested against others upper-respiratory tract infections-could be efficient against SARS-CoV2. We believe that these natural molecules could really be a valid ally against COVID-19, especially in this moment in which a SARS-CoV2 vaccine is still not available.

Desarrollo de un enjuague bucal natural a partir de extractos de zingiberáceas orgánicas disponibles en Costa Rica

Este artículo presenta un innovador enjuague bucal totalmente natural formulado con aceites esenciales de Curcuma longa-Linn y Zingiber officinale-Roscoe (variedad hawaiana). Los resultados de los ensayos de formulación se evaluaron con una prueba sensorial usando una escala hedónica para elegir entre dos alternativas: enjuague neutro o pungente. Las biomoléculas presentes en la mezcla se consideran en investigaciones anteriores como nutracéuticas, incluyen propiedades antiinflamatorias y antisépticas validadas en aplicaciones orales, el producto mejora la higiene bucal y funciona bien para los dientes y las encías. El mercado global ha puesto de moda este tipo de productos y, además, la formulación tiene un alto potencial en cuanto a salud oral preventiva.

Diet and Nutraceutical Supplementation in Dyslipidemic Patients: First Results of an Italian Single Center Real-World Retrospective Analysis.

Background: Dyslipidemias are a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders mainly characterized by an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or other conditions, such as acute pancreatitis in hypertriglyceridemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diet treatment and nutraceutical (NUTs) supplementation on the plasma lipid profile in outpatient dyslipidemic subjects, considering the influence of several factors (i.e., gender, age, body mass index, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits). Methods: 487 dyslipidemic patients spanning from 2015 to 2019 were treated with a Mediterranean diet or NUTs in a real-word setting and were retrospectively analyzed. General characteristics and lipid profile at baseline and after the follow-up period were evaluated. Results: Diet alone reduced total cholesterol (−19 mg/dL, −7.7%), LDL cholesterol (−18 mg/dL, −10.1%), and triglycerides (−20 mg/dL, −16.7%). Triglycerides (TG) decreased more in men, while women were associated with higher reduction of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C). Different types of NUTs further ameliorate lipid profiles when associated with diet. Nevertheless, most patients at low ASCVD risk (222 out of 262, 81.6%) did not achieve the 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines recommended LDL-C goals (i.e., LDL-C < 116 mg/dL). Conclusion: Lipid-lowering diet improves lipid profile, and NUTs can boost its efficacy, but taken together they are mainly unsatisfactory with respect to the targets imposed by 2019 EAS/ESC guidelines.

Introductory Note to Current Nutraceuticals

Introductory Note to Current Nutraceuticals

Natural Beta-carotene: a Microalgae Derivate for Nutraceutical Applications

Nutraceuticals have gained growing attention during the last year, becoming one of the most relevant areas of investigation. Among the existing natural sources of high value bioactive compounds, microalgae have assumed paramount importance. Indeed, they are a natural source of carotenoids, essential omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, pigments, vitamins and minerals. Among these components, beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant pigment, is particularly attractive to the nutraceutical and cosmetic sector, being an ingredient in many supplements, functional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Moreover, beta-carotene is one of the forms (precursor) of Vitamin A, which may be used in the manufacture of food supplements according to Directive 2002/46/EC. Even though some cyanobacteria produce beta-carotene (80% of total carotenoids) as the major components followed by zeaxanthin, the commercial biological source of beta-carotene is Dunaliella salina. This microalga lives in very saline environment and has the capacity to produce beta-carotene up to 10% of the dry weight. In this work, beta-carotenewas extracted by using supercritical CO2 under optimized operational conditions, resulting in increased amount of carotenoids (from 3.46% to 18.62%), proteins (from 10.03% to 43.08%), and lipids (from 3.49% to 7.93%). Then, the investigation on the main operational parameters affecting extraction from Dunaliella salina and a cost-effectiveness evaluation of the process are presented; the results evidence as 194.3-366.6 kWh/day reflecting a cost of 26.89-52.60euros/day are required for natural based beta-carotene recovery(59.3%) from Dunaliella salina.Keywords: nutraceutical, microalgae, beta-carotene, Dunaliella salina, supercritical extraction.

Hygrophorus eburneus, edible mushroom, a promising natural bioactive agent.

It is known that many edible mushrooms have important medicinal properties, including effects on different types of cancers. This is the first report regarding the neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidative and anticancer activities of the acetone extract of edible mushroom Hygrophorus eburneus. Neuroprotective potential was evaluated by measuring the capacity of the extract to inhibit acetylcholinesterase. In this assay, the tested extract showed activity against acetylcholinesterase in a dose-dependent manner where the percentage of inhibition ranged from 13.19 to 46.44 %. The antimicrobial potential was determined by the microdilution method against five species of bacteria and eight species of fungi and the results of this method exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity of H. eburneus with MIC values ranging from 6.25 to 25 mg/mL. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring the scavenging capacity of the tested sample on DPPH and superoxide anion radicals, by the reducing power assay and by measuring the amounts of total phenolics in extract. As a result of the study, H. eburneus extract showed a potent antioxidant activity (IC50 were 102.93 μg/mL for DPPH radical scavenging activity and 123.27 μg/mL for superoxide anion radicals scavenging) while absorbances for reducing power assay were from 0.0235 to 0.1161. The total phenolic content in the extract was 9.27 µg PE/mg. Finally, anticancer effects were evaluated by MTT test for cytotoxicity, acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining for detection of the type of cell death and wound healing assay for antimigratory effects on human colorectal cancer cell line (HCT-116) and human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). The results for cytotoxicity and apoptosis were measured after 24 and 72 h and for anti-migratory effect after 12 and 24 h. The tested H. eburneus mushroom extract expressed cell selectivity, with notable cytotoxic effects observed on HCT-116 cells, with a strong proapoptotic potential. The migration of HCT-116 cells was significantly inhibited, while MDA-MB-231 cells were less sensitive to the treatment. The results of this study revealed that the tested extract had relatively strong neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. It suggests that this mushroom can be proposed as a novel source of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.

Small airways in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: the potential role of a multicomponent nutraceutical.

Allergic rhinitis and asthma are closely linked. A progression from rhinitis to overt asthma is common. FEF25-75 is a spirometry parameter that could reflect small airways patency and could reliably predict early bronchial involvement in allergic rhinitis patients. MEF50 very strongly correlates with FEF25-75. The aim of this study was to evaluate possible spirometry change in two groups of children suffering from AR over time. The first group took a course of a nutraceutical (Lertal®) before the observation (active group, AG); a second one was considered as control (control group, CG). The children were visited at baseline, at the end of the nutraceutical course, and after 1 year. FEV1, FVC, and MEF50 were the primary outcomes. After one year, children in AG had significantly higher MEF50 than CG children (p=0.009). In conclusion, the present study showed that a course with a multicomponent nutraceutical could prevent the MEF50 decline in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Lertal®, a multicomponent nutraceutical, could reduce the use of antihistamines in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.

Antihistamines are the cornerstone treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). To quantify the antihistaminic consume is particularly relevant in clinical practice, since a remarkable use is usually associated with severe symptoms. The aim of the study was to measure the use of antihistamines in two groups of children suffering from AR. The first group took a course of a nutraceutical (Lertal®) before the observation (active group, AG); a second one was considered as control (control group, CG). Both groups took antihistamines on demand. The children were visited at baseline and after 1 year. The number of days of antihistaminic use was the primary outcome. Children in AG had a significant reduced number of antihistamines use in comparison with CG (p=0.008). In conclusion, the current study showed that a course with a multicomponent nutraceutical could reduce the use of symptomatic antihistamines in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Respiratory infections in allergic children: the preventive role of a multicomponent nutraceutical.

Allergic children with respiratory infections (RI) are a demanding challenge for the paediatrician. Antibiotic prescription represents a critical problem, mainly concerning the growing issue of resistance. To prevent RI would be therefore a goal in clinical practice. In this regard, modulation of immune system may have a critical role. The aim of the present study was to measure the number of respiratory infections and the use of antibiotics in two groups of children suffering from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. The first group took a course of a nutraceutical (Lertal®) before the observation (active group, AG); a second one was considered as control (control group, CG). The children were visited at baseline and after 1 year. The number of RI and of antibiotic courses was the primary outcomes. Children in AG reported a significant reduced number of RI and of antibiotic course in comparison with CG (p=0.01 and 0.002 respectively). In conclusion, the current study showed that a course with a multicomponent nutraceutical could reduce the number of respiratory infections and consequently the use of antibiotics in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. (www.actabiomedica.it)

In-vitro Studies of Anti-EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Activity of Thai nutraceutical Plants.

Functional foods have emerged as a new approach to improve human health in term of nutraceutical to prevent people from illness rather than cure patients through medical treatment. In Asian society, particularly in Thailand, the utilizations of functional ingredients have been integrated in every parts of ordinary life. In this study, the tyrosine kinase activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibiting properties of 23 Thai’s herbs-ethanol extracts have been examined. The crude extracts of only four species that inhibit the activity of EGFR-tyrosine kinase, Azadirachta indica (neem, Sa-dao), Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. (Rajadad), Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle, Krachiap daeng), and Saccharum chinensis Roxb. (Red sugar cane). Moreover, only ethanol extractions from A. indica and B. javanica were also showed antitumor effect to non-small cell lung cancer, A549 cells.

Complementary treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: the role of the nutraceutical Lertal(R).

Nutraceuticals represent interesting therapeutic options in clinical practice. In this regard, a new compound has been designed: Lertal®. It contains quercetin, perilla extract, and vitamin D3. These agents exert anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities. This article reports and discusses the results of four clinical studies conducted in adult and paediatric patients suffering from AR. Outcomes provided evidence that Lertal® may significantly prevent clinical worsening when prescribed as add-on to continuous antihistaminic treatment and also prevent clinical exacerbations, such as the need of rescue medication, when used alone as preventive strategy in AR patients. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Free radical scavenging effect of various extracts of Root of Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck (L.)Benth.) by DPPH method

The study of antioxidants and free radicals in biology is producing medical revolution that promises a new age disease and health management. The present study was performed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant effect of the methanol, ethyl acetate, hydro alcohol and water extracts of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. by using DPPH method. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited significant inhibition in DPPH free radical formation with IC 50 values of 70.5206. The ethyl acetate extract showed potent activity on DPPH, which is compared to that of ascorbic acid (IC 50 = 36.8582) taken as standard. The lesser IC 50 value indicates larger antioxidant activity. The results of the present comprehensive analysis demonstrated that ethyl acetate extract of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. is a viable source of nature antioxidant and might be exploited for functional foods and nutraceutical applications.

Traditional, nutraceutical and pharmacological approaches of Tamarindus indica (Imli)

Plants have provided a source of inspiration of novel drug compounds, as plant derived medicines have made large contributions to human health and well-being. An estimate of 75-90% of rural population of the world still relies on herbs for their healthcare. Ayurveda, supposed to be the oldest medical system in the world, provides potential leads to find active and therapeutically useful compounds from plants. Epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that consumption of plant- derived foods rich in bioactive phytochemicals have a protective effect against different aliments related to human health. Tamarindus indica is having numerous reported activities like antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antivenom, antimicrobial, antihelmintic and molluscicidal properties. In spite of these medicinal values this plant is also consumed by rural people as vegetable. It also use as flavoring agent to impart flavor to various dishes and beverage. The present comprehensive review is therefore an effort to give detailed information about botanical description, phytochemical, traditional, nutraceutical and pharmacological approaches of Tamarindus indica. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3344888