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Antioxidant and weight loss effects of pomegranate molasses
Abstract
Pomegranate molasses (PM) is a large compound of the eastern diets, yet no research has been performed on this product. In this study, we measured the total polyphenols content of PM, compared to fresh pomegranate juice, obtaining 252.28 and 79.49 mg of Gallic Acid equivalent/L respectively. The antioxidant effect of PM and juice was then measured in vitro using electrolysis as a free radical generating system. At the concentrations of 100 to 600 μl PM has strong antioxidant properties (4 times more active than juice). Moreover, molasses or juice were added to the drinking water of mice (4 ml/l) during 11 weeks leading to a significant decrease of weight curve compared to control animals; also triglycerides and lipid peroxidation were decreased in the heart, lungs, and the liver, while superoxide dismutase activity increased. In conclusion, Pomegranate molasses possesses a powerful antioxidant activity and a weight loss effect in mice.
... Studies on the total polyphenols content (TPC) showed that in pomegranate molasses TPC (252.28 mg Gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/L) is four folds higher than that in juice (79.49 mg GAE/L) (Chalfoun--Mounayar et al., 2012). The identification and quantification of bioactive compounds of pomegranate molasses sample using HPLC method showed that ascorbic acid range between (0.154%-0.250% w/w), gallic acid (0.054%-0611%), rutin (0.012%-0.054% w/w) and ellagic acid (0.058%-0.139%w/w) (Kamal et al., 2018). ...
... Thus, pomegranate can be used as functional food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry (Nasser et al., 2017). In another study done on fresh pomegranate juice and manually produced (homemade) pomegranate molasses made from bitter pomegranate fruits cultivated in Lebanon, the total phenolic content and the in vitro antioxidant action of the fresh juice and the homemade molasses were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent with gallic acid as standard and electrolysis as a free radical generating system respectively (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012). Compared to fresh pomegranate juice and at a very low concentration (100-600 μL), pomegranate molasses had the strongest antioxidant properties in vitro. ...
... Pomegranate juice and molasses led to significant decreases in the weights (only 3% (PJ) and 1% (PM) weight accumulation, respectively instead of 20% for the control group after 8 weeks) also in the triglyceride and lipid peroxidase tissue levels in the heart, liver and lungs of the mice in the active intervention group compared to the mice in the control group (for example, in the liver triglyceride levels decreased from 19.3 ± 3.0 mg-dL in the control group to 15.2 ± 2.8 mg/dL (PJ) and 6.4 ± 2.4 mg/dL (PM) and lipid peroxidase levels decreased from 127.5 ± 13.5 nmol/mg in the control group to 107.8 ± 10.7 nmol/mg (PJ) and 82.9 ± 10.8 nmol/mg (PM)), whereas a significant increase in the superoxide dismutase, a cellular detoxification system from superoxide radicals was observed (for example, in the liver superoxide dismutase activity increased from 472.8 ± 41.7 U/100 mg in the control group to 492.2 ± 42.0 U/100 mg (PJ) and 544 ± 35.6 U/100 mg (PM)). This study confirms that pomegranate molasses has more potent antioxidant properties and weight loss effect in mice than the juice and it also indicates that high temperature does not alter the antioxidant activity of pomegranate molasses against reactive oxygen species; instead it helps in the release of polyphenols from the fruit cells (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012). ...
... In the current study, we discovered that the Pomegranate Molasses pure group has hepatic cords that are nearly normal. Pomegranate molasses (PM) has the strongest antioxidant properties in vitro when compared to pomegranate juice at a very low concentration, with polyphenols four times higher in molasses than in juice (27). According to (2), the levels of liver function parameters, speci cally ALP, ALT, AST, and serum total bilirubin, were signi cantly higher in cisplatin-injected animals than in the control group. ...
... These ndings could be attributed to pomegranate's antioxidant and anti brotic properties, as well as its potential therapeutic value in protecting the liver from brosis and oxidative injury via oxidative stress suppression (29). Pomegranate enhances or maintains the activity of hepatic enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase, in addition to antioxidant effects and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) (27). ...
Pomegranates ( Punica granatum L .) are said to provide various health advantages, according to accumulating research. The Liver tissue and antioxidant stress effect of pomegranate molasses, white and red peel extracts on male rats with phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anaemia are highlighted in this article. Phenylhydrazine induced anemia resulted in: Decreasing of Direct Bilirubin, CAT, GPx, SOD, ALP, Accompanied by increasing of LDH, Total Bilirubin, Indirect Bilirubin, MDA, ALT, AST. Regarding the histopathology study of Liver: PHZ exposed group showed a loss of the normal architecture with dilated, congested central vein and necrotic areas, dilated and congested blood sinusoids with pycnotic Kuppfer cells and hepatocytes with karyolytic nuclei. PHZ exposed group showed a severely-vacuolated hepatic environment with hydrobic degeneration apoptotic and degenerated hepatocytes, focal necrosis, dilated blood sinusoids with atrophied Kuppfer cells and dilated central vein. Regading of Molasses Pomegranate + PHZ; White Peel Pomegranate + PHZ and Red Peel Pomegranate + PHZ (Improvement Group): There was an increase of Direct Bilirubin, CAT, GPx, SOD, ALP. Accompanied by decreasing of LDH, Total Bilirubin, Indirect Bilirubin, MDA, ALT, AST, ALP. Red peel pomegranate after PHZ (Red Peel + PHZ) exposed group showed a partial restoration of the normal histological pattern to a great extent with a central vein having a good profile and hepatocytes with healthy and intact nuclei. But some vacuolization and leucocytic infiltration is still evident. White peel pomegranate after PHZ (White Peel + PHZ) exposed group showed a regeneration in hepatocytes, a nearly normal blood sinusoids, but the central vein is still congested and surrounded with damaged cells. Molasses pomegranate after PHZ (Molasses + PHZ) exposed group showed most of hepatocytes and Kuppfer cells taking normal appearance but the hepatic environment is still vacuolated (V) and the central vein is congested. Conclusion: Molasses, White peel and Red peel Pomegranate have a strong antioxidant for protective liver tissue.
... The compounds present are intense in pomegranate peel and juice, which depicts 85-95% of the antioxidant activity allied with the fruit (Afaq et al. 2005;Negi et al. 2003;Zahin et al. 2010). Pomegranate peels consist of pericarp, albedo (white fleshy membrane), membrane (translucent yellow material surrounding the pomegranate arils), and rind (outer peel or husk of a pomegranate); the pericarp is a good source of polyphenols such as anthocyanin, leucoanthocyanins, catechins, and flavonoids and contains about 30% tannins (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al. 2012). Another part of pomegranate fruit is seeds, which are rich origins of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) mostly linolenic (nÀ3) and linoleic (nÀ2) acids. ...
... These findings were corroborated by a decrease in the TG (triglyceride) levels and lipid peroxidation but SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity increase in the heart, lungs, and liver. Meanwhile, the protective effects of the pomegranate molasses against ROS (reactive oxygen activity) generated by the electrolysis were histologically demonstrated (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al. 2012). Extraction of antioxidant from pomegranate peel and seed by using methanol, acetone, or water found that methanol gave an excellent antioxidant effect. ...
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer made up of lactic acid monomers. It is being increasingly produced today because of its potential applications in textile industry, pharmaceutical, packaging, bioremediation, and many more. The commercial production of lactic acid enantiomers is mostly done using renewable materials such as lignocellulosic and starchy biomass along with the milk-processing industry by-products like whey. Homofermentative and heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are most widely used for production. However, some cyanobacteria, fungi, and yeast have also been reported for efficient lactic acid fermentation. Genetic engineering and molecular biology approaches are being continuously used for strain improvement for more efficient and economic production. Fermentation has been commercially performed in batch, fed-batch, and continuous mode with the use of techniques like membrane filtration, reactive extraction, and others for separation from the broth. PLA can be composed of either pure l-isomer or d-isomer or both d, l-lactic acid depending upon the requirement and use. Polymerization processes such as polycondensation, ring-opening polymerization, and direct methods like azeotropic dehydration and enzymatic polymerization are used to form PLA from lactic acid monomers. This paper discusses the need of PLA and the methods used for its commercial production along with its structural properties and wide range applications.
... It is known that equilibrium between oxidants and antioxidants is crucial to the body. The advantage of antioxidant substances is one important factor to control individual healthy life that has a protective effect at level population [2] . ...
... Furthermore, phenolic compounds such as flavonoid and tannin are particular that can capture metals like iron S781 involved in free radical formation [5] . Indirectly, polyphenols can interfere with the cellular detoxification systems, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase or glutathione peroxides [2] . Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) is a tropical fruit, which is widely grown in Indonesia. ...
Objective: To determine body weight gain, expression of Igf-1 and Igf-1 receptor on obese rat
model treated with rambutan peel extract (RPE) as a physiological response.
Methods: Normal and obese rat feed with normal and high calorie diet around 1 2 weeks
and continued to treat with ellagic acid, RPE 15, 30 and 60 mg/kg body weight respectively.
Physiological responses observed were weight gain and expression of Igf-1 with its receptor.
Body weight of rat was weighed once per week. Expression of Igf-1 and igf-1R observed with
fluorescence immunohistochemistry. The intensity of Igf-1 and Igf-1R expression was analysis
using FSX-BSW software.
Results: The lowest weight gain was obtained on obese rat model treated with RPE 30 mg/kg body
weight. The expression of Igf-1 and Igf-1R were reduced on obese rat model treated with RPE
compared with obese rat model of non treatment (P
... Ngoài ra chất xơ được chứng minh có thể làm giảm LDL-cholesterol và huyết áp, điều chỉnh lượng đường trong máu, duy trì trọng lượng cơ thể bằng cách kéo dài cảm giác no và cũng để ngăn ngừa táo bón [5]. Lựu (Pinica granatum L.) được xem là một trong những loại trái cây lâu đời nhất và xuất hiện sớm nhất trong chế độ ăn uống của con người [6]. Các thành phần không ăn được của quả lựu được coi là phế liệu như vỏ và hạt có chứa các thành phần có hoạt tính sinh học cao hơn so với phần ăn được của quả [7]. ...
Lựu được xem là một trong những loại trái cây lâu đời nhất và xuất hiện sớm nhất trong chế độ ăn uống của con người. Lựu nổi tiếng với nguồn dinh dưỡng, khoáng chất và hàm lượng chất xơ. Trong nghiên cứu này, việc sử dụng bột vỏ quả lựu thay vì bột lúa mì trong bánh cupcake đã được thực hiện. Bột vỏ quả lựu được sử dụng trong công thức bánh cupcake ở các mức độ khác nhau (0%, 4%, 8%, 12% và 16%) sau đó ảnh hưởng của bột vỏ quả lựu đến các đặc tính vật lý, hóa học, dinh dưỡng và cảm quan của bánh cupcake được phân tích. Kết quả cho thấy khi tăng dần lượng bột vỏ quả lựu, giá trị đường kính, chiều dày của bánh giảm và giá trị tỷ lệ trương nở, độ cứng cũng tăng dần. Hơn nữa, về màu sắc của bánh, độ sáng (L) và giá trị b giảm, giá trị a tăng. Bên cạnh đó, việc bổ sung thêm bột vỏ quả lựu làm tăng hàm lượng tro, chất xơ, trong khi đó hàm lượng protein, lipid và carbohydrate giảm nhẹ khi tăng bột vỏ quả lựu. Kết quả đánh giá cảm quan cho thấy rằng ở nghiệm thức A2, 4% bột vỏ quả lựu là tỷ lệ phối trộn thích hợp để sản xuất bánh cupcake. Kết quả của nghiên cứu này cho thấy, bánh cupcake đã được cải thiện một cách đáng kể về các tính chất vật lý, hóa học, dinh dưỡng và cảm quan khi kết hợp với bột vỏ quả lựu.
... Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is considered one of the oldest fruits and the earliest to appear in human diet [1]. Nonedible components of pomegranate fruit are considered waste materials like peels and seeds that contain higher amounts of bioactive components compared to the edible part of the fruit [2]. ...
The effect of substituted wheat flour with pomegranate peel powder (PPP) at different ratios 5, 10, 15, and 20% on chemical composition, physical properties, color appearance, staling, and the sensory evaluation of the high-fibre cupcake was evaluated. The obtained results revealed that a slight increase in ash of cake samples with all levels of PPP was found. The highest value of ash was 1.92% given by cupcakes with 20% PPP. It was observed that a gradual significant ( p ≤ 0.05 ) increase in dietary fibre of prepared cupcakes with PPP compared to control cake. The dietary fibre values ranged from 2.73% for the control cake to 17.00% with 20% of PPP; it may be due to the high content of ash and dietary fibre in PPP. Also, using PPP in cupcake manufacturing had a lowered effect on their volume and specific volume, where control cupcake recorded 48.00 cm3 and 1.40 cm3/g for volume and specific volume, respectively. In addition, a gradual significant ( p ≤ 0.05 ) decrease in L value (lightness) with incorporated different levels of PPP was found. The control cupcake had the highest lightness value (65.97) with a significant ( p ≤ 0.05 ) increase compared to all other cupcake samples that ranged between 37.67 and 30.18 by 5% and 20% of PPP, respectively. The results indicated that the highest value of taste was 18.75, which was given by cupcake with 5% PPP. While increasing the percentage of PPP in cupcake, the taste is less acceptable by panelists, and perhaps, this decreases in taste due to the high ratio of fibre in PPP. The highest staling was given by cupcake replaced with PPP at 20% after the ninth day of storage. Finally, it can be concluded that PPP can be used in cupcake production to raise its dietary fibre and mineral content up to a substitution rate of 10% PPP while retaining acceptable organoleptic properties.
... Pomegranate molasses are still being produced by traditional methods. It is a thick, dark red liquid formed after cleaning, crushing, extraction, filtration, and evaporation in an open vessel or under vacuum, (18,19) Additionally, the total phenolic contents of PM was reported to be nontoxic and four times greater than those found in the juice (20) . ...
Objective: Epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is an essential process for tumor progression. Targeting molecules in EMT might repress tumor progression. Pomegranate molasses and red grape vinegar are rich in polyphonic compounds with a significant therapeutic use. In this study we evaluated the possible protective effect of pomegranate molasses and red grape vinegar on dysplastic changes in chemically induced oral squamous cell carcinoma in hamsters. Material and Methods: 76 male hamsters were divided equally into 4 groups (19 each). Group I served as control group with no intervention. Group II received topical application of 0.5% 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) on the left buccal pouches for 16 weeks with no intervention. Group III received 0.5 ml of Pomegranate molasses plus 0.5 ml distilled water through ingestion daily which was concomitant with DMBA application and continued for 3 months post induction period. Group IV received a red grape vinegar in a protocol similar to group III. Then the pouches were collected, fixed and processed for H&E, anti-TGF-β and anti-CK-19 staining.
... Ellagitannins in Punica granatum L. are effective in powder form as in juice form [10]. A 2010 issue of "Disease Prevention Research" expressed that ellagitannins from Punica granatum L. showed anticancer capacities by halting the development and expansion of breast cancer tumours in an in vitro investigation [11]. Punica granatum L. beneficial effects has been studied in the context of xenobiotics induced toxicity pertaining to the hepatic and renal tissues [12][13][14][15]. ...
Background
Pomegranate powder derived from pomegranate fruit contains phytochemicals chief of which is ellagitannins. Owing to their high antioxidative capabilities we investigated its efficacy against lead acetate induced hepatic and renal toxicity.
Methods
Pomegranate powder (500 g) was procured and soaked in 1 Litre of ethanol for three days, its filtrate was concentrated and freeze dried to form Punica granatum L. ethanol extract (PLEE). Thirty (30) male albino Wistar rats with average weight between 140 ± 20 g were used for this study. They were equally shared into 6 groups with 5 animals each; A: Control; B: Lead acetate only C: Lead acetate + PLEE (1); D: Lead acetate + PLEE (2); E: PLEE (1) and F: PLEE (2). Serum, liver and kidney samples were obtained for biochemical assays. The integrity of liver and kidney tissues were also accessed.
Results
Lead administration resulted in marked elevations in liver transaminases in serum and liver as well as a significant increase in kidney function markers in the serum and kidney ( p < 0.05). There was also a significant decline in average body weight, antioxidant markers in the liver and kidney of Wistar rats while there was a significant increase in lipid peroxidation levels in both liver and kidney. However, administration of PLEE at different doses significantly modulated these changes.
Conclusion
Lead acetate administration led to hepatic and renal toxicity as evident by alterations in liver and kidney function markers, antioxidant status and tissue integrity. However, PLEE can combat these toxicities.
... A study done by Kamal et al. (2018) confirmed the presence of strong antioxidant markers in PM which was associated with the presence of vitamin C, gallic acid, rutin and ellagic acid. In a study conducted by Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., (2012) PM showed the strongest antioxidant properties in vitro as compared to pomegranate juice which indicated that high temperature does not affect the antioxidant activity of PM against reactive oxygen species. On the contrary, high temperature was assumed to help the cells of pomegranate fruit release polyphenols. ...
Pomegranate fruit and its derived products are rich sources of bioactive compounds. They have many biological activities. Pomegranate molasses (PM) is a thick, traditional Middle Eastern syrup used in many recipes for Lebanese and international cuisines. It is a highly nutritious product which makes it of great interest. The purpose of this study was to assess the phytochemical composition, antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties of homemade and commercial PM consumed in Lebanon using samples collected from households in rural areas (n = 4) and the market (n = 28). The objectives of this study were to determine their total phenolic content using the Follin-Ciocalteu method, their total flavonoid content using aluminum chloride method, their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical scavenging as well as ferrous ion chelating assays and their anti-diabetic activity using α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities with acarbose, a known anti-diabetic drug, used as the standard reference. Homemade PM samples exhibited a higher antioxidant activity than commercial samples, with the most active homemade PM sample having IC50 values of 0.09 mg/mL (DPPH radical scavenging assay) and 46.78% ferrous ion chelating assay). Homemade PM samples also showed higher anti-diabetic activity than commercial samples, with the most active homemade PM sample having an IC50 of 0.63 mg/mL (α-amylase inhibitory activity) and of 0.41 mg/mL (α-glucosidase inhibitory activity) and being almost as active as acarbose with both enzymes (1.5 times).
Significant inverse strong/moderate correlations were observed between total phenolic content/total flavonoid content and the IC50 value of DPPH radical scavenging assay, indicating positive associations between total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. In addition, significant negative moderate correlations were observed between total phenolic/flavonoid contents and α-amylase inhibitory activity, indicating positive associations between total phenolic and flavonoid contents and anti-diabetic activity.
... Pomegranate molasses are still being produced by traditional methods. It is a thick, dark red liquid formed after cleaning, crushing, extraction, filtration, and evaporation in an open vessel or under vacuum, (18,19) Additionally, the total phenolic contents of PM was reported to be nontoxic and four times greater than those found in the juice (20) . ...
... Sour pomegranate varieties (with 2-3 pH), which cannot be consumed as tableware, are pressed, clarified, then concentrated to minimum 68 brix for pomegranate molasses production [7]. This is a product with high nutritional value and contains at a significant level of minerals (K, P, Mg, Ca) and phenolics [8]. Pomegranate sour sauce dissimilarly contains pomegranate syrup, water, pomegranate aroma, acidity regulator (citric acid), colorant and preservative [9]. ...
In this research, pomegranate molasses, pomegranate sour sauces and pomegranate jams were evaluated in terms of some physicochemical properties including hydroxymethylfurfural, total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity and bioaccessibility. While ascorbic acid of these products ranged between 0.89-19.78 mg 100g-1, total phenolic contents changed between 31.40-2061.10 mg gallic acid equivalent 100g-1. Antioxidant capacities of the products were determined as 34.01-2377.52 mg trolox equivalent 100g-1 with DPPH assay and 18.9-6439.0 mg trolox equivalent 100g-1 with CUPRAC assay. The bioaccessibilities regarding phenolic substance and antioxidant capacity after simulated gastrointestinal digestion ranged between 74-247% and 53-213%, respectively. High HMF levels, which were reflected on color and sensory features, have indicated the necessity of improving the production and storage conditions. On the other hand, the highest ascorbic acid, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of pomegranate molasses and the bioaccessibility of pomegranate jams in terms of antioxidants showed the importance of consumption of these products in the daily diet. So, this study can be regarded as a case surveillance study that can be used by producers, nutritionals and authorities to make assessments on manufacturing conditions, consumer health and nutrition.
... These findings were corroborated by a decrease in the TG (triglyceride) levels and lipid peroxidation but SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity increase in the heart, lungs, and liver. Meanwhile, the protective effects of the pomegranate molasses against ROS (reactive oxygen activity) generated by the electrolysis were histologically demonstrated (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al. 2012). Extraction of antioxidant from pomegranate peel and seed by using methanol, acetone, or water found that methanol gave an excellent antioxidant effect. ...
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) belongs to the family Puniceae and is commonly known as pomegranate. In India pomegranate is commercially cultivated in the districts of Solapur, Sangli, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Pune, Dhule, Aurangabad, Satara, Bijapur, Belgaum, Bagalkot, etc. The peel of pomegranate is rich in antioxidants, which help in curing degenerative diseases such as obesity, diabetics, cardiovascular disease, cancer, etc. The therapeutic potential of pomegranate peel has been also reported. The rind of pomegranate is a rich source of hydrolyzable tannins of the ellagitannin group. From previous studies, it can be concluded that pomegranate peel is rich in proximate composition and antioxidant potential. Hence it is an antioxidant used for natural preservatives and also used in the production of dyes. Pomegranate peel helps in the treatment of intestinal worms, diarrhea, inflammation, infertility, cough, etc. Pomegranate peel extracts used for antibacterial activity were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aerogens, Salmonella typhi, etc. Recent studies show that from pomegranate peel pectin can be extracted. The pomegranate peel can be available at very low cost expenditure from industries, which can be used as value addition in different food products such as cookies, pasta, biscuits, etc.
... The non-edible ingredients of pomegranate fruit are considered as waste materials (i.e., peels and seeds), contain even higher quantity of biologically active components compared to the edible part of fruit (Orgil et al., 2014). Pomegranate is considered one of the oldest fruit and one of the earliest to appear in human diet (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012). Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel, a residues of juice processing industries was recoded to contain a several of bioactive compounds, minerals and crude fibers for a extended range of human dietary requirements (Mirdehghan and Rahemi, 2007). ...
... The pericarp, the inner lamella, and the consumed part constitutes 38%, 10% and 52% of the total weight of the fruit, respectively. The juice is 78% of the portion used (45-61% of total weight), and the seeds are 22% [8]. Interestingly, the above nutraceutical properties are not limited to the edible part of pomegranate fruit; the nonedible fractions of fruit (i.e., peel and seeds), although considered as waste, also contain even higher amounts of specific nutritionally valuable and biologically active components, as compared to the edible fruit [9]. ...
A clarification method was proposed to ameliorate the technological quality of fruit juices by preserving bioactive compounds. This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities and the in vivo effects of Punica granatum L. natural (NJ) and clarified (CJ) juice by polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fiber membrane. CJ was more active as an antioxidant and as a α-glucosidase inhibitor than NJ. Mice were orally gavaged with water (Control), NJ, and CJ for 28 days. NJ group showed significant decrease of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate amino transferase, and creatine-phosphokinase. CJ administration was associated with urea, creatine-phosphokinase, and triglycerides values significantly lower with respect to the control. Oxidative status was ameliorated with CJ administration, showing a reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) reduction of 32% and a biological antioxidant potential (BAP) boosting of 23% compared to the control, whereas NJ did not show a similar effect. Results confirmed the beneficial properties of pomegranate juice, showing that membrane clarification may enhance such effects in terms of antioxidant activity.
... The present work showed that HCC group treated with POM and MT displays significant reduction in MDA in correspondence with elevation of hepatic GSH. This results could be explained by Orak et al. [55] and Chalfoun-Mounayar et al. [56] who reported that pomegranate is among the richest fruit in antioxidants of the polyphenolic class which includes tannins and anthocyanins. As investigated by Middleton et al. [57], Polyphenols like catechin or quercetin exhibited antioxidant activities and directly scavenge ROS, which can be very injurious causing lipids, proteins and DNA damage [58,59]. ...
Punica granatum (POM) and Silybum marianum (MT) receiving attention as potential potent anti-oxidant and anti-mutant agents. In this context, the present study was designed to highlight their effects either in vitro as well as in vivo model of induced Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Human hepatoma (HepG2 cells) were treated with MT and POM to explore their antitumor activity then in vivo were carried out on thirty-six male albino rats divided into six groups (n=6). Two weeks after induction of HCC, rats were co-treated with either MT or POM ethanolic extract (500 mg/kg, orally) daily for 8 weeks. The results displayed marked reduction in the viability of HepG2 cells with IC50 equal to 48.4 and 8.6 μg/mL of POM and MT treatment respectively. Considering, in vivo experiment HCC group displayed significant elevation liver function indices (p<0.05). It also elicited depletion of liver reduced glutathione (GSH), and increased content of liver malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to control group. HCC was proved after a significantly elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level (p<0.05). All of these measurements were diminished significantly after POM and MT treatments, except the GSH level that was increased significantly. Supplementation of pomegranate and milk thistle extracts had a protective effect against chemically induced HCC.
... In other words, the mechanism of the inhibitory effects, by which pomegranate molasses protects against lipid peroxidation, may involve radical scavenging capability and antioxidant enzymes activation, and this depletion may result from oxidative modification of these proteins. Our results are in agreement with other previous studies (Türk, Sönmez et al. 2008, Chalfoun-Mounayar, Nemr et al. 2012, Al-Moraie, Arafat et al. 2013.Our study showed no statistical alteration in the level of serum TC in the model group. This result in agreement with anohter previuos study (Ellis, Fitzharris et al. 1992). ...
... No toxic effects or significant differences were observed in the treatment group compared to controls, which was confirmed via histopathological analysis of rat organs (Cerda et al. 2003). The protective effects of the PM against ROS generated by the electrolysis were histologically demonstrated (Chalfoun- Mounayar et al. 2012). ...
... Diabetes induced by streptozotocin alters the structure and function of the body including the liver cells. 15 The structure and function of the body and also the liver cells will be changed by diabetes induced by streptozotocin. Other research suggests that consumption of artichoke leaf extract (21 days) increases serum levels of ALP, ALT and AST in non-diabetic rats. ...
Background and aims: Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) is a plant of the Asteraceae family. This plant is used in herbal medicine. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of artichokeextract on insulin, glucagon, glucose, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 40 adult male Wistar rats weighting 220-200 g were used. The rats were divided into 4 equal groups including, control, diabetic and 2 diabetic experimental groups. Two experimental groups respectively received 100 and 300 mg/kg of artichoke hydro ethanol extract as intraperitoneal for 6 days. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg streptozotocin. At the end of the sixth day, blood was taken from the heart of animals. Afterward serum concentration of insulin, glucagon, glucose, ALP, ALT and AST were measured. Then, the parameters measured in the different groups were compared with a control group. Data were evaluated by ANOVA, Duncan test and Student’s t-test. Results: Results showed that artichoke extract significantly reduced the levels of glucagon, glucose, ALP, ALT, AST and increased insulin level compared to control and diabetic groups. It is worth noting that before the experiment, parameters tested were equal in all groups. Conclusion: Artichoke reduces blood sugar so it has a role in treatment of diabetes. Additionally, this herb is effective in control of blood glucose by liver enzymes reducing.
... In other words, the mechanism of the inhibitory effects, by which pomegranate molasses protects against lipid peroxidation, may involve radical scavenging capability and antioxidant enzymes activation, and this depletion may result from oxidative modification of these proteins. Our results are in agreement with other previous studies (Türk, Sönmez et al. 2008, Chalfoun-Mounayar, Nemr et al. 2012, Al-Moraie, Arafat et al. 2013.Our study showed no statistical alteration in the level of serum TC in the model group. This result in agreement with anohter previuos study (Ellis, Fitzharris et al. 1992). ...
Pomegranate molasses (PM) is one of a main compound of the eastern diets, which is used for popular medicine treatment of various diseases. Most of these effects were attributed to its high phenolic antioxidant effects, but without much scientific investigations. For this reason, we have studied the effects of pomegranate molasses (PM) on cisplatin (CP)-induced oxidative stress in male albino rats. Thirty adult male rats, of about 300-320g body weight, were allocated into three groups; Control (n = 5) receiving standard rat chow and tap water ad libitum. For the model group, CP-induced oxidative stress, animals were injected (intraperitoneal) with CP (2 mg/kg BW/week). Whereas the third group, in addition to the CP, animals received PM (traditionally homemade) (0.5ml/kg BW/day) for eight weeks. Results showed that the concentrations of liver function enzymes (ALP, ALT, AST) and serum total bilirubin were significantly (P<0.05) improved by PM treatment after their significant elevation by CP-injection. On the other hand, the level of serum urea and uric acid decreased significantly (P<0.05) in PM treated rats in comparison to CP-injected group. Unexpectedly the serum creatinine concentration was not recovered by PM. Furthermore, pomegranate molasses statistically recovered the lipid profiles especially serum TAG, VLDL, HDL and LDL but not total cholesterol. In addition, concentration of serum MDA (a well-known marker of the degree of lipid peroxidation) was significantly(P<0.05) improved in PM supplemented group. In conclusion, this study supported the idea that the supplementation of pomegranates molasses, through its antioxidant activity, significantly ameliorates the oxidative stress in rats, providing a variety of health benefits.
... Based on findings, pomegranate peel extract resulted in nonsignificant decrease in body mass index after 8-weeks. Some studies indicated pomegranate peel extract induces weight loss in mice, due to its effect on reducing serum TG and plasma glucose concentration [40,41]. By considering significant reduction in serum TG and TC levels in pomegranate peel extract group in our study, it was possible that, longer duration of intervention results in significant changes of body weight. ...
Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease with several pathological mechanisms. The intervention that provides for reduced pain and disability with fewer side effects may help improve OA. Pomegranate peel is known to have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to its great amount of polyphenols. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the pomegranate peel extract on clinical signs and symptoms of knee OA. Methods: This randomized, double blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted amongst 60 women in the age range of 38 - 60 years who were referred to the physical medicine and rehabilitation department of the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Tabriz, Iran (Sep 2014 - Feb 2015). The participants were allocated using the block randomization method in one of two study arms. The intervention and control groups received 500 mg of pomegranate peel, hydro alcoholic extract (n = 30) and placebo (n = 30), twice daily for 8 weeks, along with standard drug therapy. The primary outcome measure was the change in mean, Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) and the secondary outcome measure was the visual analog scale score. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in the mean of age, body mass index (BMI), disease duration and parity before intervention (P > 0.05). The mean of KOOS increased from 46.15±16.82 to 57.57±15.61 after 12 weeks (P < 0.001) as compared to the placebo group 50.83±18.83 declining to 56.10±18.07 (P < 0.001). The VAS score declined significantly in both treatment and control groups compared with baselines (P < 0.005). These changes in the intervention group were significantly greater than those in the control group after adjusting for baseline values, weight changes, energy intake, physical activity, disease duration and parity (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study presented some effects of the pomegranate peel extract in reducing pain and improving clinical signs and symptoms in women with knee OA and might be considered as a complementary medicine in treating OA.
... Based on findings, pomegranate peel extract resulted in nonsignificant decrease in body mass index after 8-weeks. Some studies indicated pomegranate peel extract induces weight loss in mice, due to its effect on reducing serum TG and plasma glucose concentration [40,41]. By considering significant reduction in serum TG and TC levels in pomegranate peel extract group in our study, it was possible that, longer duration of intervention results in significant changes of body weight. ...
Introduction
Dyslipidemia is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Previous studies have shown that pomegranate and its polyphenols may have hypolipidemic effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of pomegranate peel extract on some cardiovascular risk factors in patients with dyslipidemia.
Methods
Thirty eight obese women (30< body mass index (BMI) >35 kg/m2) with dyslipidemia were allocated into two groups receiving two 500 mg pomegranate peel extract (n = 19) or placebo (n = 19) daily for 8 weeks. Serum lipid profile (total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG)), Blood Pressure(BP), serum high sensitive-C reactive protein (hs-CRP) and BMIwere measured.
Results
Pomegranate peel extract significantly decreased post treatment levels of serum TC (p = 0.014), LDL-C (p = 0.021), and TG (p = 0.036) and increased HDL-C (p = 0.020)compared to baseline. There was a significant decrease in Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) levels and hs-CRP in pomegranate peel group whereas Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) levels and BMI remained unchanged after intervention. No significant changes were seen in terms of all post treatment values for the placebo group at the end of trial (p > 0.05). After adjusting for the baseline values, energy intake and weight changes, there were significant differences in post-treatment values between the two groups except in serum concentrations of HDL-C, DBP and BMI.
Conclusions
Current study showed a positive effect of pomegranate peel extract in improving cardiovascular risk factors in obese women with dyslipidemia.
... Diabetes induced by streptozotocin alters the structure and function of the body including the liver cells (Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012). Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with various structural and functional liver abnormalities, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatic glycogenosis (HG). ...
Antioxidant therapy has been thought to be effectual for the prevention and treatment of various diseases including diabetes. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the potency of Paracentrotus lividus extract (PLE) for alleviating the complications that resulted after induction of the diabetic rat models (T1DM and T2DM) using high fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ). Thirty six male Wistar albino rats were assigned into normal control, T1DM and T2DM untreated, and PLE treated diabetic rat groups. Induction of T1DM was performed by streptozotocin injection (60mg/kg of dissolved in sodium citrate buffer, 0.1mol/L, i.p). T2DM induction through 4weeks of high fat diet (HFD) intervention was followed by a single low dosage of STZ (30mg/kg dissolved in 0.1mol/L citrate buffer at pH 4.5, i.p). Both diabetic rat models showed a significant increase in serum; levels of fasting glucose, total protein, bilirubin, activities of arginase, transaminases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ glutamyl transferase (GGT), lipid profile parameters, and liver malondialdehyde (MDA). However, T1DM and T2DM rats have decreased levels of serum insulin, and liver glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), glutathione reduced (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), and antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the present study showed the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant potency of the PLE as confirmed by its ability for ameliorating most of the alterations caused in the studied parameters of diabetic rats. In conclusion, PLE may be useful as therapy against oxidative stress and liver damage in both types of diabetes mellitus and is therefore recommended for further studies.
... Our, results agree with [52] who found that pomegranate juice and molasses antioxidants activity induced weight loss in the animals. Hypercholesterolemic rats administrated with different levels of pomegranate peel powder had significant decrease in food consumption and body weight gain ratio [53]. ...
... Pomegranate fruit is characterized by its high phenolic contents and antioxidant properties Ç am et al., 2009;Madrigal-Carballo et al., 2009;Anoosh et al., 2010;Qu et al., 2010;Elfalleh et al., 2009Elfalleh et al., , 2011aViuda-Martos et al., 2011;Zaouay and Mars, 2011;Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012;Jing et al., 2012;Orak et al., 2012;Zaouay et al., 2012). It is also clinically more effective in the treatment of depression and bone loss in menopausal syndrome in women (Mori-Okamoto et al., 2004). ...
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the oldest known edible fruit tree species, originating in Central Asia, but with a wide geographical global distribution, reflecting its adaptation to a wide range of climatic conditions. It is important for its nutritional, medicinal and ornamental properties and its high consumption and industrial value. In a bid to better utilize and improve the current genetic resources, there is a need to understand and appreciate studies related to the use, centre of origin and diversity, as well as the characterization, evaluation and conservation, taxonomy and systematics of the genus Punica. In addition to understanding the basic biology of the plant, how biotechnological tools, including cell and tissue culture and micropropagation (i.e. somatic embryogenesis, organogenesis, synthetic seeds, somaclonal variation, mutagenesis, haploidy, and in vitro conservation), genetic transformation and marker technology, have been used to improve pomegranate germplasm are all topics that have been covered in this review.
... [21,22] Pomegranate contains polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. [23][24][25][26] The main purpose of this study was to investigate the protective role of PFE against CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity in female rats. Our results showed that PFE had no protective effect on nephrotoxicity induced by CDDP in female rats. ...
Nephrotoxicity is the major side-effect of cisplatin (CDDP), and it is reported to be gender-related. We evaluated the effects of pomegranate flower extract (PFE) as an antioxidant on CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity in female rats.
Twenty-three adult female rats in four groups treated as following. Groups 1 and 2 received PFE at doses of 25 and 50 (mg/kg/day), respectively, for 9 days, and from day 3 on, they also received cisplatin (CDDP) (2.5 mg/kg) daily. Group 3 was treated as group 1 expects saline instead of PFE, and group 4 received PFE (25 mg/kg/day) alone.
Cisplatin alone increased the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and nitrite; and kidney tissue damage score and kidney weight. However, PFE not only did not ameliorate the induced nephrotoxicity, but also aggravated renal tissue damage.
Pomegranate extract as an antioxidant did not ameliorate CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity in female rats.
... Coronary heart diseases, cancer (skin, breast, prostate and colon), inflammation, hyperlipidemia , diabetes, cardiac disorders, hypoxia, ischemia, aging, brain disorders, liver damage and AIDS are the potential disease targets in years to come for treatments using pomegranate ingredients (Pantuck et al., 2006; Rahman and Megeid, 2006; Seeram et al., 2006; Jyotsana and Maity, 2010; Adhami et al., 2012). Pomegranate fruit is characterized by its high phenolic contents and antioxidant properties (Ozgen et al., 2008; C ¸ am et al., 2009; Madrigal-Carballo et al., 2009; Anoosh et al., 2010; Qu et al., 2010; Elfalleh et al., 2009 Elfalleh et al., , 2011a Viuda-Martos et al., 2011; Zaouay and Mars, 2011; Chalfoun-Mounayar et al., 2012; Jing et al., 2012; Orak et al., 2012; Zaouay et al., 2012). It is also clinically more effective in the treatment of depression and bone loss in menopausal syndrome in women (Mori-Okamoto et al., 2004). ...
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the oldest known edible fruit tree species, originating in Central
Asia, but with a wide geographical global distribution, reflecting its adaptation to a wide range of
climatic conditions. It is important for its nutritional, medicinal and ornamental properties and its high
consumption and industrial value. In a bid to better utilize and improve the current genetic resources,
there is a need to understand and appreciate studies related to the use, centre of origin and diversity,
as well as the characterization, evaluation and conservation, taxonomy and systematics of the genus
Punica. In addition to understanding the basic biology of the plant, how biotechnological tools, including
cell and tissue culture and micropropagation (i.e. somatic embryogenesis, organogenesis, synthetic
seeds, somaclonal variation, mutagenesis, haploidy, and in vitro conservation), genetic transformation
and marker technology, have been used to improve pomegranate germplasm are all topics that have
been covered in this review.
The development in the drug industry stimulates the phytotherapy applications with the advance of research about the active constituents in plants exhibit that use of them in traditional medicine 4 , such Punica granatumL.(pomegranate) plant. This study is required to establish new scientific proofs for therapeutic use of such traditional medicinal plants and this by experimental work on (16 female rats). The study showed a decrease in body weight in P. granatum peel extract administered rats, may be decreasing fat absorption and storing and revealed that peel extract affect lipid profile parameters. The histopathological study no harm effects of peel extracts on liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, but an ingestion in the spleen observed in the high dose treatment.
II
Summary The current study included fifty-six young male albino rats (4 months old and weighted 280 –290 gm), and twenty-four senescent male albino rats (24 months old and weighted 420 – 450 gm). The study was conducted in Biology Department of the College of Science, University of Mosul, and in the Medical Research Center of Hawler Medical University. Animals' treatment and assessing biomarkers of the experiment lasted a period between January- 2013 and December - 2014. The present study aimed to investigate the antiaging properties of grape seed extract (GSE), green tea extract (GTE), pomegranate seed extract (PSE), ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), α- lipoic acid (LA) and centrophenoxine (CPH) in normal and D- galactose (D-gal) induced aged male albino rats, and their preventing and improving effects in some biomolecular and physiological biomarkers of aging resulted from oxidative damage to cells in natural and D-gal Induced aged rats. Young male rats of four months age were divided randomly into eight groups (7 rats in each group), group I (control), group II (D-gal.), group III (D-gal. +CPH), group IV (D-gal. + GSE), group V (D- gal. + GTE), group VI (D-gal.+ LA), group VII (D-gal. + PSE) and Group VIII (D- gal. +GBE). Senescent male rats of 24 month old were divided randomly into four groups (7 rats in each group), group I (control), group II (CPH), group III (GSE) and group IV (GTE). At the end of the nine weeks experimental treatment period, blood samples were collected and the obtained serum were stored at-80 °C then used for biochemical assay. The dissected liver and brain of each animal in the all groups had been homogenized and liver and brain supernatant was collected and stored at -80 °C then used for oxidative stress biomarkers assay, also small pieces were taken from the liver and the brain of each animal to be used in the biomolecular studies. The results showed that mitochondrial Deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) deletion4834 bp, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxy guanosine (8-OHdG), Malondialdehyde
Summary
III
(MDA) and isoprostane (IsoP) significantly (P< 0.01) increased in the liver and
brain of natural aged and D-gal. induced aging rats. Cellular mtDNA copy
number is significantly (P< 0.01) increased also in liver and brain of natural
aged and D-galactose induced aging rats in response to oxidative stress with the
aging. Administration of antiaging biocompounds; GSE, GTE, PSE, GBE, LA
and CPH significantly (P< 0.01) decreased mtDNA deletion4834 bp and 8-
OHdG, mtDNA copy number, MDA and IsoP in liver and brain of normal aged
rats and D-Galactose induced aging groups.
The data of this study showed a significant (P< 0.01) decrease in total
antioxidant capacity (TCA), total glutathione (T.GSH), superoxide dismutase
(SOD) and catalase (CAT) of the liver and brain of rats and indicates that this
decrease may be involved in the mechanisms of free radical induced damage to
lipids, proteins and DNA during normal aging and chronic administration of Dgalactose.
Administration of antiaging biocompounds; GSE, GTE, PSE, GBE,
LA and CPH significantly (P< 0.01) increased TCA, T.GSH, SOD, CAT of the
liver and brain in natural and D-gal. induced aging rats.
Total non-heme iron and ferritin concentration of liver and brain were
significantly (P<0.01) increased in natural and induced aged rats. Treatment
with GSE, GTE, PSE, GBE, LA and CPH significantly (P< 0.01) caused
decrease of the non-heme iron in liver and brain of normal and induced ageing
rats.
Significant (P<0.05) elevation in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST),
alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphate (ALP), gamma-glutamyl
transferase (GGT) and significant (P<0.05) reduced of albumin (ALB) and total
bilirubin (TBI) as a liver function biomarkers was shown in natural and D-gal.
induced aging rats. Rats treated with GSE, GTE, PSE, GBE, LA and CPH
showed a protective role in decreasing significantly (P<0.05) the serum levels of
AST ALT, ALP, GGT with significant (P<0.05) increasing in the serum ALB
and TBI as a liver function biomarkers in natural and D-gal. induced aging rats.
Summary
IV
The levels of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase
(CPK) as a hepatic function biomarkers significantly (P<0.05) increased in
natural and D-gal. induced aging rats. The treatment with GSE, GTE, GSE,
GBE, LA and CPH showed a protective role in significantly decreasing the
serum levels of LDH and CPK in natural and D-gal. induced aging rats.
The levels of serum urea, creatinine and uric acid as a renal function biomarkers
significantly (P<0.05) increased in natural and D-gal. induced aging rats. The
rats treated with GSE, GTE, GPE, GBE, LA and CPH showed a protective role
in decreasing significantly (P< 0.05) the serum levels of uric acid, urea and
creatinine in natural and D-gal. induced aging rats.
Body weight and organs weight (liver, heart and brain) were slightly
decreased in D-gal. induced model rats but antioxidants administration improves
them.
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that aging induces a significant
mtDNA oxidative damage and oxidative stress biomarkers in rats. Chronic
administration of D-gal. accelerates aging via enhancing production of reactive
oxygen species and advanced glycation ends products (AGE), this sequence of
events results an oxidative stress and cellular damage. 9-week supplementation
of GSE, GTE, PSE, GBE, LA and CPH supplementation suppresses senescence
biomarkers and down regulates oxidative stress damage in the liver, heart,
kidney and brain tissues of normal and D-gal.-induced aging rats.
The Middle Eastern diets contain many foods, among which the pomegranate molasses, are believed to have antioxidant effects, but yet, no research has been performed to evaluate the possible prophylactic role of this product to protect the genetic material of the cellular effects, therefore the current study was undertaken to investigate the prophylactic effects of pomegranate molasses in three concentrations (5, 10 and 15µg / mL) on human peripheral lymphocytes exposed to genotoxic effect of benzoic acid (E-210) with concentration of 500µg / mL, by using two types of cytogenetic studies, mitotic index (MI) and chromosomal aberration (CA) test through three types of transactions (before, after, and with treatment)
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder which is associated with secretion reduction or insulin resistance. Since different stress causes play a crucial role in incidence and chemical drugs side-effects of this disease, this study is aimed to investigate the effects of walnut leaves on insulin, glucose, albumin, AST ALT and ALP enzymes in diabetic and diabetic by forced swimming stress.
METHODS: In this experimental study, 50 adult male rats divided into 5 groups: control, diabetic, diabetic treated with walnut leaves (200mg/kg), diabetic with swimming stress in water 15°C and diabetic treated with swimming stress and walnut leaves. At the end of 21 days injection and phlebotomizing, serum levels of insulin, glucose, albumin and ALT, AST and ALP enzymes have been measured and the related data by using SPSS-18 software, ANOVA and Tukey has been analyzed.
FINDINGS: The results showed that diabetic and diabetic with swimming caused a significant reduction of insulin (4.46±.26,5.06±.14)(P
The edible parts of pomegranate fruit represented 52% of total fruit weight, comprising 78% juice and 22% seeds. The fresh juice contained 85.4% moisture, 10.6% total sugars, 1.4% pectin, 0.1 g/100 ml total acidity (as citric acid), 0.7 mg/100 ml ascorbic acid, 19.6 mg/100 ml free amino nitrogen and 0.05 g/100 ml ash. Meanwhile, the seeds are a rich source of total lipids, protein, crude fibers and ash representing 27.2, 13.2, 35.3 and 2.0%, respectively, and also contained 6.0% pectin and 4.7% total sugars. The iron, cupper, sodium, magnesium and zinc contents of the juice were lower than those of seeds, except potassium which was 49.2 ppm in the juice.
On the other hand, the physical and chemical properties of seed's lipids indicated that the refractive index was 1.518, melting point 13.0°C, iodine value 74.2, acid number 1.1, unsaponifiable matters 0.7%, saponification value 188.9, ester value 187.8 and glycerol content 10.3%. Moreover, the studied lipids contained 11 fatty acids, from them caprylic, the predominant acid, represented 36.3%, followed by stearic acid (22.5%). Furthermore, oleic and linoleic acids covered 5.1% and 10.3%, respectively. Otherwise, the saturated fatty acids of seed's lipids of pomegranate composed 83.6% of the total fatty acids content.
The potentially injurious effects of oxygen-derived free radicals (OFR) on the myocardium can be prevented in part by pretreatment with OFR scavengers or antioxidants. Since ceruloplasmin (CP) has been shown to possess potent antioxidant activity and scavenge a variety of OFR in vitro, we have undertaken to study its protective effects against myocardial injury induced by OFR. CP was freshly purified by a fast method that minimized proteolytic enzyme degradation. Free radicals were generated by the electrolysis (10 mA DC current for 1 min) of a Krebs-Henseleit solution perfusing an isolated rat heart preparation under constant pressure conditions. CP (0.25 microM) afforded 80 and 63% protection (n = 8, p less than 0.05), respectively, against the deleterious effects of electrolysis-induced OFR on left ventricular pressure and coronary flow. The increase in left ventricular end diastolic pressure used here as an index of heart failure did not occur in the presence of 0.25 microM CP. Moreover, CP significantly reduced the increase of norepinephrine washout in the effluent perfusate after electrolysis suggesting a protection against free radical-induced injury to sympathetic nerve endings.
The present study was designed to identify the free radicals generated during the electrolysis of the solution used to perfuse isolated rat heart Langendorff preparations. The high reactivity and very short half-life of oxygen free radicals make their detection and identification difficult. A diamagnetic organic molecule (spin trap) can be used to react with a specific radical to produce a more stable secondary radical or "spin adduct" detected by electron spin resonance (ESR). Isovolumic left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP) and left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) were measured by a fluid-filled latex balloon inserted into the left ventricle. The coronary flow was measured by effluent collection. Electrolysis was performed with constant currents of 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 mA generated by a Grass stimulator and applied to the perfusion solution for 1 min. A group of experiments was done using a 1.5 mA current and a Krebs-Henseleit (K-H) solution containing free radical scavengers (superoxide dismutase (SOD): 100 IU/ml or mannitol: 50 mM). Heart function rapidly declined in hearts perfused with K-H buffer that had been electrolyzed for 1 min. The addition of mannitol (50 mM) to the perfusion solution had no effect on baseline cardiac function before electrolysis while SOD (100 IU/ml) increased the coronary flow. However, SOD was more effective than the mannitol in protecting the heart against decreased of cardiac function, 5 min after the end of electrolysis. Samples of the K-H medium subjected to electrolysis were collected in cuvettes containing a final concentration of 125 mM 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO) and analyzed by spectroscopy. The ESR spectrum consisted of a quartet signal (hyperfine couplings aN = aH = 14.9 G) originating from the hydroxyl adduct signal, DMPO-OH. The intensity of the DMPO-OH signal remained stable during the 60 s of electrolysis and the quantity of free radicals induced by electrolysis was directly proportional to the intensity of the current. The addition of mannitol and SOD to the perfusate scavenged the hydroxyl radicals present in the solution, suggesting that both hydroxyl and superoxide radicals were formed during electrolysis.
The effects of a pomegranate byproduct (PBP, which includes the whole pomegranate fruit left after juice preparation) on atherosclerosis development in apolipoprotein E-deficient (E degrees ) mice were studied. Consumption of PBP (17 or 51.5 microg of gallic acid equiv/kg/day) by the mice resulted in a significant reduction in atherosclerotic lesion size by up to 57%. PBP consumption significantly reduced oxidative stress in the mice peritoneal macrophages (MPM): Cellular lipid peroxide content decreased by up to 42%, the reduced glutathione levels increased by up to 53%, and paraoxonase 2 lactonase activity increased by up to 50%, as compared to MPM from E degrees mice that consumed only water. Furthermore, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) uptake by the MPM was reduced by up to 19%. Similar results were observed also in vitro. Treatment of J774A.1 macrophages with PBP (10 or 50 micromol/L of total polyphenols) significantly decreased both cellular total peroxide content and Ox-LDL uptake. It was thus concluded that PBP significantly attenuates atherosclerosis development by its antioxidant properties.