Oxidation Of LDL Cholesterol Research Articles

Beyond cholesterol: Exploring serum ferritin’s and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein role in cardiovascular risk

Background: Iron, a pivotal element in the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, exerts influence on inflammatory responses and exhibits a positive association with coronary heart disease. Elevated levels of the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (CRP), serve as a predictive risk factor for subsequent cardiac events. Aims and Objectives: This study explores the interplay between cardiovascular disease risk factors and serum ferritin concerning CRP. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 750 subjects (375 males and 375 females) was subjected to analysis. Elevated levels were defined as CRP >3.0 mg/L, serum ferritin >200 ng/mL, total cholesterol >200 mg/dL, and LDL-cholesterol >160 mg/dL. HDL cholesterol levels below 40 mg/dL were categorized as low. Results: Within the low LDL-cholesterol group, no discernible correlation was observed between serum ferritin and high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) (odds ratio [OR] of 54.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.81–3.48, P<0.148). Conversely, a correlation was identified in the elevated LDL-cholesterol group (OR of 10.98, 95% CI=1.12–111.22, P<0.05). Furthermore, the introduction of an interaction term in the assessment of the correlation between elevated hsCRP and LDL-cholesterol reaffirmed a robust correlation between hsCRP and serum ferritin (P<0.005). Conclusion: The oxidation of LDL-cholesterol by serum ferritin emerges as a potential contributor to inflammatory reactions and heightened hsCRP levels. Prospective studies are warranted to investigate whether interventions targeting the reduction of serum ferritin and CRP levels, through medical interventions and lifestyle modifications, could prove efficacious in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Antioxidant Properties and Prediction of Bioactive Peptides Produced from Flixweed (sophia, Descurainis sophia L.) and Camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) Seed Meal: Integrated In Vitro and In Silico Studies.

Flixweed (sophia) seed meal and camelina, both by-products of oil processing, were employed to generate protein hydrolysates by applying Flavourzyme and Alcalase. This study aimed to integrate in vitro and in silico methods to analyze sophia and camelina protein hydrolysates for releasing potent antioxidative, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibitors and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides. In vitro methods were used to investigate the antioxidant potential of sophia/camelina protein hydrolysates. Bioinformatics techniques, including Peptideranker, BIOPEP, Toxinpred, AlgPred, and SwissADME, were employed to obtain the identification of bioactive peptides produced during the hydrolysis process. Protein hydrolysates produced from sophia and camelina seed meal exhibited higher ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities Ithan their protein isolates. Among the produced protein hydrolysates, Alcalase-treated samples showed the highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. In addition, sophia/camelina hydrolysates prevented hydroxyl and peroxyl radical-induced DNA scission and LDL cholesterol oxidation. In silico proteolysis was conducted on Alcalase-treated samples, and resultant peptides showed potential DPP IV and ACE-inhibitory activities. Identified peptides were further assessed for their toxicity and medicinal properties. Results indicate that all digestive-resistant peptides were non-toxic and had desirable drug-like properties. The findings of this study suggest that sophia/camelina protein hydrolysates are promising candidates for functional foods, nutraceuticals, and natural therapeutics.

Antioxidant and ACE-Inhibitory Activity of Protein Hydrolysates Produced from Atlantic Sea Cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa).

Atlantic sea cucumber is a benthic marine echinoderm found in Northwest Atlantic waters and is harvested mainly for its body wall. The body wall, along with internal organs and aquaphyrangeal bulb/flower, is a rich source of proteins, where the latter parts are often considered as processing discards. The objective of this research was to produce protein hydrolysates from sea cucumber tissues (body wall, flower, and internal organs) with bioactive properties associated with antioxidants, DNA and LDL cholesterol oxidation inhibition, and angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory effects. The protein hydrolysates were prepared using food-grade commercial enzymes, namely Alcalase, Corolase, and Flavourzyme, individually and in combination, and found that the combination of enzymes exhibited stronger antioxidant potential than the individual enzymes, as well as their untreated counterparts. Similar trends were also observed for the DNA and LDL cholesterol oxidation inhibition and ACE-inhibitory properties of sea cucumber protein hydrolysates, mainly those that were prepared from the flower. Thus, the findings of this study revealed potential applications of sea cucumber-derived protein hydrolysates in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements, as well as natural therapeutics.

Cadmium induces chondroitin sulfate synthase 1 via protein kinase Cα and elongates chondroitin/dermatan sulfate chains in cultured vascular endothelial cells.

Cadmium is an environmental pollutant and a risk factor for atherosclerosis. In the atherosclerotic intima, dermatan sulfate chains accelerate accumulation and oxidation of LDL cholesterol. The major type of dermatan sulfate proteoglycan that is synthesized by vascular endothelial cells is biglycan. In the present study, we analyzed the effect of cadmium on the biglycan synthesis using cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells. Cadmium did not induce biglycan mRNA and core protein expression; however, it elongated the chondroitin/dermatan sulfate chains of biglycan. Among elongation enzymes of the chondroitin/dermatan sulfate chain, chondroitin sulfate synthase 1 (CHSY1) mRNA and protein expression were dose- and time-dependently upregulated by cadmium depending on protein kinase Cα. This finding suggests that CHSY1-dependent elongation of chondroitin/dermatan sulfate chains of biglycan may exacerbate cadmium-induced atherosclerosis.

Recapsoma®: A Novel Mixture Based on Bergamot, Ipomoea Batatas, Policosanol Extracts and Liposomal Berberine for the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is considered one of the major causes of mortality worldwide. Epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of phenols is inversely associated with cardiovascular disease, and the use of nutraceuticals and functional foods can provide protective, preventive, and possibly curative effects in CVD. A novel mixture of different natural substances named Recapsoma® (bergamot, liposomal berberine, Ipomoea batatas, oleuropein, polycosanols, and vitamin E) has been produced, and its anti-dyslipidaemic efficacy has been tested, specifically studying the in vitro effects on the mechanisms of action underlying cholesterol synthesis, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol oxidation. The work has demonstrated the ability of this herbal extract mixture to inhibit the action of PCSK, ACAT, PAP, and HMGR and to increase the LDL receptor (LDLR), underlying the synergistic effect of the mixture over the single components. Such results suggest that the Recapsoma® mixture could be used as a tool for controlling hypercholesterolemia, and an alternative to statins, especially for those patients with metabolic syndrome.

Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Sea Cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa) Processing Discards as Affected by High-Pressure Processing (HPP).

Sea cucumber processing discards, which include mainly internal organs, represent up to 50% of the sea cucumber biomass, and are a rich source of bioactive compounds, including phenolics. This work aimed to extract free, esterified, and insoluble-bound phenolics from the internal organs of the Atlantic sea cucumber (C. frondosa) using high-pressure processing (HPP) pre-treatment. The sea cucumber internal organs were subjected to HPP (6000 bar for 10 min), followed by the extraction and characterization of phenolics. Samples were evaluated for their total contents of phenolics and flavonoids, as well as several in vitro methods of antioxidant activities, namely, free radical scavenging and metal chelation activities. Moreover, anti-tyrosinase and antiglycation properties, as well as inhibitory activities against LDL cholesterol oxidation and DNA damage, were examined. The results demonstrated that HPP pre-treatment had a significant effect on the extraction of phenolics, antioxidant properties, and other bioactivities. The phenolics in sea cucumber internal organs existed mainly in the free form, followed by the insoluble-bound and esterified fractions. Additionally, UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis identified and quantified 23 phenolic compounds from HPP-treated samples, mostly phenolic acids and flavonoids. Hence, this investigation provides fundamental information that helps to design the full utilization of the Atlantic sea cucumber species and the production of a multitude of value-added products.

Study of new pathogenetic mechanisms of diabetic retinopathy development in patients with diabetic foot syndrome

Introduction and purpose. Diabetes is one of the underlying causes of blindness and other long-term negative consequences that significantly affect patients’ quality of life. The study aimed to determine the indicators characterizing the pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of vascular dysfunction, in particular diabetic retinopathy (DR), and the relationship of these changes with nitric oxide. Material and methods. There were 2114 patients with various surgical diseases under observation (including 1073 patients with purulent-septic soft tissue diseases), among them there were 193 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and 134 patients with Wagner stage 2-5 diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) and diabetic retinopathy in the main group (268 eyes). The comparison group included 59 patients (118 eyes) of the corresponding age with DM without DFS and DR. Both groups were the same in age and gender. Results. The level of the end products of nitric oxide metabolism in peripheral blood was found to be 1.78 times (p<0.01) higher compared with patients without DR. A decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in patients with DR was by 1.56 times (p<0.01) lower relative to the comparison group. The content of thiobarbituric acid (TBA)-active products in the peripheral blood of patients of the main group exceeded by 1.58 times (p <0.01) the reference values of patients without DR. When determining the content of S-nitrosithiols, an increase in these indicators in the main group was found to be 2.38 times (p<0.01). Patients in the main group with DR also showed a 5.13-fold (p<0.001) increase in peripheral blood homocysteine concentration. NO is known to have both positive and harmful effects depending on its concentration. On the one hand, NO causes relaxation of blood vessels by reducing blood pressure, prevents platelet aggregation and adhesion, limits LDL cholesterol oxidation, suppresses smooth muscle cell proliferation, and reduces the expression of proinflammatory genes that are associated with atherogenesis. It is known that NO can have both positive and harmful effects, depending on its concentration. On the one hand, NO causes relaxation of blood vessels, reducing blood pressure, prevents platelet aggregation and adhesion, limits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, suppresses the proliferation of smooth muscle cells, and reduces the expression of pro-inflammatory genes that are associated with atherogenesis. On the other hand, NO interacts with O2-, leading to the inactivation of NO and the production of peroxynitrite, which post-transcriptionally modifies proteins and negatively affects their function. This can contribute to endothelial dysfunction by stimulating the production of inflammatory mediators and lipid peroxidation and thus increasing cell permeability. Conclusions. The findings show that the patients with diabetes mellitus complicated by retinopathy and DFS had a significant increase in the content of nitric oxide in the peripheral blood, the cause of which is hyperglycemia. The use of an intercellular mediator (nitric oxide), which contributes to the physiological regulation of the hemodynamics of the eye, protects vascular endothelial cells from pathogenic factors of ischemia, will help clinicians choose an effective pharmacological therapy appropriate for a particular patient and a particular eye.

Inhibition of low-density lipoprotein oxidation, antioxidative and bile acid-binding capacities of hydrolyzed proteins from carbohydrase-treated oat bran.

This study investigated the valorization of oat bran and the use of its proteins to generate polypeptides with antioxidant and bile acid-binding properties. Ten protein hydrolysates were prepared by treating cellulase (CPI) or Viscozyme (VPI) protein isolates with five proteases. VPI-pepsin was the best peroxyl radical scavenger (497±6-μM Trolox equivalents [TE]/g) while VPI-Flavourzyme quenched hydroxyl radicals (28±0.6) and VPI-pepsin superoxide anion radicals (45.3±6.6%). Hydrolysates, except those produced with pepsin, dose-dependently chelated iron whereas VPI-Protamex had the best copper-chelating capacity (59.83±1.40%). These antioxidative capacities were important in preventing by 50% in vitro copper-induced oxidation of human low-density lipoprotein. Furthermore, due to their aromatic amino acid contents and hydrophobicity, the hydrolysates bound up to 46.3% the bile acids taurodeoxycholate and taurocholate. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The presence of oxidants in foods can damage food molecules and decrease their quality. They are also known to increase the risk of developing chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease. Finding new antioxidant molecules are therefore useful in the management of chronic diseases. Data from this work showed that hydrolyzed oat bran proteins can be useful in stabilizing commercial oil as they reduced the oxidation of peanut oil. Additionally, the protein hydrolysates not only prevented the oxidation of linoleic, a common component of both vegetable oils and biological cell membranes, they also inhibited the oxidation of human LDL cholesterol and chelated bile acids. These hydrolysates can then be further explored as multifunctional ingredients for the development of stable functional food products with potential beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.

Extensive Bioactivity of Astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis in Human.

Astaxanthin is known as a "marine carotenoid" and occurs in a wide variety of living organisms such as salmon, shrimp, crab, and red snapper. Astaxanthin antioxidant activity has been reported to be more than 100times greater than that of vitamin E against lipid peroxidation and approximately 550 times more potent than that of vitamin E for singlet oxygen quenching. Astaxanthin doesn't exhibit any pro-oxidant nature and its main site of action is on/in the cell membrane. To date, extensive important benefits suggested for human health include anti-inflammation, immunomodulation, anti-stress, LDL cholesterol oxidation suppression, enhanced skin health, improved semen quality, attenuation of common fatigue including eye fatigue, increased sports performance and endurance, limiting exercised-induced muscle damage, and the suppression of the development of lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, atherosclerosis, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Recently, there has been an explosive increase worldwide in both the research and demand for natural astaxanthin mainly extracted from the microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis, in human health applications. Japanese clinicians are especially using the natural astaxanthin as add-on supplementation for patients who are unsatisfied with conventional medications or cannot take other medications due to serious symptoms. For example, in heart failure or overactive bladder patients, astaxanthin treatment enhances patient's daily activity levels and QOL. Other ongoing clinical trials and case studies are examining chronic diseases such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, and CVD, as well as infertility, atopic dermatitis, androgenetic alopecia, ulcerative colitis, and sarcopenia. In the near future, astaxanthin may secure a firm and signature position as medical food.

An Update on the Role of PCSK9 in Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is initiated by functional changes in the endothelium accompanied by accumulation, oxidation, and glycation of LDL-cholesterol in the inner layer of the arterial wall and continues with the expression of adhesion molecules and release of chemoattractants. PCSK9 is a proprotein convertase that increases circulating LDL levels by directing hepatic LDL receptors into lysosomes for degradation. The effects of PCSK9 on hepatic LDL receptors and contribution to atherosclerosis via the induction of hyperlipidemia are well defined. Monoclonal PCSK9 antibodies that block the effects of PCSK9 on LDL receptors demonstrated beneficial results in cardiovascular outcome trials. In recent years, extrahepatic functions of PCSK9, particularly its direct effects on atherosclerotic plaques have received increasing attention. Experimental trials have revealed that PCSK9 plays a significant role in every step of atherosclerotic plaque formation. It contributes to foam cell formation by increasing the uptake of LDL by macrophages via scavenger receptors and inhibiting cholesterol efflux from macrophages. It induces the expression of inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules, and chemoattractants, thereby increasing monocyte recruitment, inflammatory cell adhesion, and inflammation at the atherosclerotic vascular wall. Moreover, low shear stress is associated with increased PCSK9 expression. PCSK9 may induce endothelial cell apoptosis and autophagy and stimulate the differentiation of smooth muscle cells from the contractile phenotype to synthetic phenotype. Increasing evidence indicates that PCSK9 is a molecular target in the development of novel approaches toward the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. This review focuses on the molecular roles of PCSK9 in atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Physiological Significance of Discrimination on Stress Markers, Obesity, and LDL Oxidation among a European American and African American Cohort of Females

Factors underlying physiological reactions from perceived discrimination and its relation to adverse health outcomes are not completely understood. The main purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that experiences of discrimination (recent and lifetime) correlate with biomarkers of stress, oxidative stress, and obesity among adult females. Data on 62 females who self-identify as African American (AA; n = 31) or European American (EA; n = 31) aged 21-45years were included. Discrimination experiences (recent and lifetime) were evaluated based on a validated instrument. Stress was assessed based on hair cortisol (HC) and salivary cortisol (SC), hsC-reactive protein (hsCRP), cardiovascular markers, and LDL-cholesterol oxidation. Obesity was measured based on BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percent. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the influence of experiences of discrimination. Significant differences in experiences of discrimination were observed by race (p < 0.05) and were higher in AA females. Results for the multiple regression models assessing the contribution of discrimination indicate that hsCRP and pulse were significantly associated with recent experiences of discrimination, and SC, HC, hsCRP, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and pulse were significantly associated with lifetime experiences of discrimination when adjusted for BMI and race (p < 0.05). Finally, oxidation of LDL-cholesterol was significantly associated with salivary cortisol (p =0.0420) when adjusted by lifetime experiences of discrimination (p = 0.0366) but not for BMI (p = 0.6252). In this cross-sectional study, AA females experienced more discrimination compared to EA females. Levels of recent and lifetime experiences of discrimination were associated with some stress biomarkers. Salivary cortisol was associated with oxidation of LDL-cholesterol with shorter lag times and increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Wood extracts as unique sources of soluble and insoluble-bound phenolics: reducing power, metal chelation and inhibition of oxidation of human LDL-cholesterol and DNA strand scission

Palm date is an important crop in many Middle Eastern countries. In the present study, seedling date palm wood and old date palm wood were evaluated for their phenolics content. It was found that they may serve as rich source of soluble and insoluble-bound phenolics with promising reducing power and metal chelation. The observed effects were compared with those of oak, quibracho, banana, and pine woods. Syringic acid, (+)-catechin, and (+)-gallocatechin were present in five out of the six tested samples, as evaluated by MALDI-TOF-MS. Therefore, these compounds are good candidates to be monitored by the industry in order to define quality parameters. Additionally, due to their strong ability in counteracting DNA damage caused by peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals (up to 98.42%) and cupric ion-induced human low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) peroxidation in vitro (up to 95.80%), wood phenolics may render antimutagenic effects and protection against cardiovascular diseases.

Clitoria ternatea L. petal bioactive compounds display antioxidant, antihemolytic and antihypertensive effects, inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities and reduce human LDL cholesterol and DNA induced oxidation.

The purpose of this study was to use a statistical approach to optimise the experimental conditions regarding the extraction of bioactive compounds, and to analyse the in vitro functional properties of crude lyophilized extracts (CLE) and partially purified (PPE) extracts of Clitoria ternatea petals. The results showed that the factors of temperature and time influenced the extraction of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and the physicochemical parameters. Simultaneous optimisation showed that the same levels of bioactive compounds were extracted when using temperatures from 11.7 to 68.3 °C and times from 8.47 to 51.12 min. Principal component analysis revealed the experimental conditions that provided the extraction producing the highest level of phenolic content (40 °C/30 min). The CLE showed antimicrobial activity; protective effect against hemolysis of erythrocytes; inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase and angiotensin-I-converting (ACE-I) enzymes; and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. The CLE and PPE demonstrated oxygen radical absorption capacity; inhibition of DNA strand scission; inhibition of LDL cholesterol oxidation; intracellular antioxidant activity against reactive oxygen species (>100 μg/mL); and no cytotoxicity (IC50, GI50 and LC50 > 900 μg/mL) against A549, HCT8 and IMR90 cell lines.

Lycopene – a bioactive carotenoid offering multiple health benefits: a review

SummaryLycopene is a natural red tomato pigment whose presence in the diet is beneficial to human health. It is believed to modify the course of chronic conditions, including neoplastic diseases. Clinical research results confirm its protective effects on the cardiovascular system. It lowers the risk of myocardial infarction, reduces blood pressure and prevents LDL cholesterol oxidation. High blood lycopene concentrations are also associated with lower risks of developing prostate, lung, uterine and breast cancer. Lycopene does not only inhibit proliferation of neoplastic cells, but it also induces their apoptosis and prevents metastasis. The health effects attributed to this compound are mostly derived from its antioxidant properties. It is a strong singlet oxygen quencher, and it thwarts lipid oxidation. Experimental and clinical studies have also confirmed lycopene's positive effects on the skeletal system and on neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Beneficial Effects of Tomato Juice Fermented by Lactobacillus Plantarum and Lactobacillus Casei: Antioxidation, Antimicrobial Effect, and Volatile Profiles.

Tomato juice was fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus casei to produce an innovative high-bioactivity probiotic beverage. The levels of lycopene, total carotenoids, ascorbic acid, total phenolic and volatile compounds, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzotiazo-line-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging capacities, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and Escherichia coli flora, as well as the inhibition of copper-induced human low-density lipoproteins (LDL)-cholesterol oxidation assays, were measured. The results revealed that the ABTS and DPPH inhibition values, as well as the FRAP and total phenolic content, were significantly increased. LDL-cholesterol oxidation was markedly delayed after the addition of the fermented juice. The in vitro inhibitory effects of Escherichia coli flora were substantially increased after being fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus casei. The results associated with the volatile compounds indicated that fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus casei is a meaningful strategy for modifying flavors.

P-259 - Beetroot leaves (Beta vulgaris L.) assist in cholesterol reduction in dyslipidemic obese adults

Several vegetables have been utilized as a strategy to diminish oxidative and inflammatory process on chronic noncommunicable diseases, such as obesity and dyslipidemia. Our study aimed to analyse freeze-dried beetroot leaves consumption effects on biochemical parameters of dyslipidemic obese adults and, also an in-vitro analyses, to evaluate the beetroot leaves extract on the prevention of LDL-cholesterol oxidation processes. 57 volunteers randomized into 3 groups were treated for 60 days. Intervention group received freeze-dried beetroot leaves capsules, control group received microcrystalline cellulose and maltodextrin capsules, and placebo group received matodextrin capsules. Biochemical exams were compared at the beginning and at the end of the intervention. Oxidation of LDL/CuSO4 was evaluated in the presence of differents concentrations of beet extract. At the end of the treatment, volunteers who consumed freeze-dried beetroot leaves had significant decrease on biochemical levels of: total cholesterol (≤0.001), LDL cholesterol (p=0.009), fasting glucose (p=0.006) and fasting insulin (p=0.033). In vitro essays of LDL/CuSO4, hydroalcoholic beetroot leaves extract (100PPM) shown a protective effect against LDL oxidation, with similar values with native LDL.

The effects of wine consumption on cardiovascular disease and associated risk factors: a narrative review

Accumulating evidence suggests that regular moderate consumption of wine can positively influence risk factors associated with cardiovascular health. These effects are often attributed to grape and wine-derived phenolic compounds and their effects on risk factors such as atherosclerosis, for which mechanisms have been clearly identified, such as a decrease in the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol and reduction of oxidative stress, and an increase in nitric oxide and related restoration of endothelial function. In addition, the ethanol component of wine increases HDL-cholesterol, inhibits platelet aggregation, promotes fibrinolysis and reduces systemic inflammation. Scientific research needs to be conducted, however, before we can begin to provide science-based dietary recommendations, although there is sufficient evidence to generally recommend consuming food sources rich in bioactive compounds such as wine in moderation. This narrative review examines published evidence on the cardioprotective effects associated with wine-derived compounds, with a primary focus on the development and progression of atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Vascular endothelium dysfunction: a conservative target in metabolic disorders.

Vascular endothelium plays a role in capillary transport of nutrients and drugs and regulates angiogenesis, homeostasis, as well as vascular tone and permeability as a major regulator of local vascular homeostasis. The present study has been designed to investigate the role of endothelium in metabolic disorders. The endothelium maintains the balance between vasodilatation and vasoconstriction, procoagulant and anticoagulant, prothrombotic and antithrombotic mechanisms. Diabetes mellitus causes the activation of aldose reductase, polyol pathway and advanced glycation-end-product formation that collectively affect the phosphorylation status and expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthatase (eNOS) and causes vascular endothelium dysfunction. Elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with increase in LDL oxidation, generation of hydrogen peroxides, superoxide anions that increased oxidative degradation of nitric oxide. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been reported to increase the endogenous competitive inhibitors of eNOS viz L-N-monomethyl arginine (L-NMMA) and asymmetric dimethyl arginine (ADMA) that may contribute to vascular endothelial dysfunction. Hypercholesterolemia stimulates oxidation of LDL cholesterol, release of endothelins, and generation of ROS. The increased cholesterol and triglyceride level and decreased protective HDL level, decreases the activity and expression of eNOS and disrupts the integrity of vascular endothelium, due to oxidative stress. Hypertension also stimulates release of endothelins, vasoconstrictor prostanoids, angiotensin II, inflammatory cytokines, xanthine oxidase and, thereby, reduces bioavailability of nitric oxide. Thus, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying diabetes mellitus, hyperhomocysteinemia, hypercholesterolemia hypertension and hyperuricemia leads to an imbalance of phosphorylation and dephosphorylation status of lipid and protein kinase that cause modulation of vascular endothelial L-arginine/nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS), to produce vascular endothelium dysfunction.

Phenolic and polyphenolic profiles of chia seeds and their in vitro biological activities

Phenolics exist in the soluble and insoluble-bound forms. In this research, free, esterified and insoluble-bound phenolics of defatted chia seeds were evaluated for their antioxidant activity using in vitro methods, namely ABTS+, DPPH and HO scavenging capacity assays. Their effect in a β-carotene linoleate system, reducing power and metal chelation activities were also determined. Furthermore, inhibition of activities against pancreatic lipase, α-glucosidase as well as LDL-cholesterol oxidation as well as DNA damage induced by peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals were examined. The free fraction was the predominant form of phenolics. HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis led to the identification of 27 phenolics belonging to phenolic acids, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. Procyanidin dimers (A, B1, B2, and B3) were identified for the first time. Chia seeds provide a viable source of functional food ingredients or nutraceuticals with protective antioxidant potential, but further research is required to confirm their anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects.

Voće i povrće kao funkcionalna hrana u primarnoj prevenciji kardiovaskularnih bolesti

Cardiovascular disease can be prevented by changing lifestyle, including proper diet. According to evidence from experimental and epidemiological studies, fruit and vegetables as functional foods reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, primarily as a source of antioxidants and phytochemicals such as pectin, vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lycopene, anthocyanins, flavonols, quercetin, resveratrol and other. These bioactive nutrients act differently depending on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and electrolytic properties, primarily by eliminating free radicals, preventing oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, increasing nitric oxide production, which leads to dilation of blood vessels, reducing the level of LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, inhibiting platelet aggregation and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. People who regularly consume fruits and vegetables as part of a regular and balanced diet, without neglecting the genetic factors have a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Focus on overall diet, rather than individual nutrients, a clearer understanding of the link between consumption of fruits and vegetables as functional foods and cardiovascular disease provides healthcare professionals with useful information for public health and clinical practice.