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Dietary supplementation with blueberries, spinach, or spirulina reduces ischemic brain damage
Abstract
Free radicals are involved in neurodegenerative disorders, such as ischemia and aging. We have previously demonstrated that treatment with diets enriched with blueberry, spinach, or spirulina have been shown to reduce neurodegenerative changes in aged animals. The purpose of this study was to determine if these diets have neuroprotective effects in focal ischemic brain. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with equal amounts of diets (blueberry, spinach, and spirulina) or with control diet. After 4 weeks of feeding, all animals were anesthetized with chloral hydrate. The right middle cerebral artery was ligated with a 10-O suture for 60 min. The ligature was later removed to allow reperfusional injury. Animals were sacrificed and brains were removed for caspase-3 enzymatic assays and triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining at 8 and 48 h after the onset of reperfusion. A subgroup of animals was used for locomotor behavior and biochemical assays. We found that animals which received blueberry, spinach, or spirulina enriched diets had a significant reduction in the volume of infarction in the cerebral cortex and an increase in post-stroke locomotor activity. There was no difference in blood biochemistry, blood CO2, and electrolyte levels among all groups, suggesting that the protection was not indirectly mediated through the changes in physiological functions. Animals treated with blueberry, spinach, or spirulina had significantly lower caspase-3 activity in the ischemic hemisphere. In conclusion, our data suggest that chronic treatment with blueberry, spinach, or spirulina reduces ischemia/reperfusion-induced apoptosis and cerebral infarction.
... Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of spinach may help to reduce brain damage. It has been shown that a spinach-fortified diet significantly reduces cortical infarction volume and caspase-3 activity in the ischemic hemisphere, in addition to increasing motor activity after stroke [63]. An animal study on rats found that 400 mg/kg of spinach reduces brain activity and increases pentobarbitone-induced sleep time. ...
... On the other hand, Persian scholars have recommended the consumption of spinach in the diet of people who have had a history of stroke (attributed to the accumulation of black bile) [14]. This plant has been shown in animal models to reduce infarct volume in the cerebral cortex and increase motor activity after stroke [63]. ...
Background:
Spinach is a widely cultivated dark leafy vegetable highly regarded for its medicinal properties in traditional Persian medicine. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds, and this review aims to explore the historical applications of spinach in Persian medicine and juxtapose them with current scientific evidence. Despite its historical significance, there remains a need to comprehensively evaluate and integrate traditional knowledge with modern research on the therapeutic benefits of spinach.
Methods
To achieve this, a comprehensive search was conducted in Persian medicine references and scientific databases to gather information on the traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of spinach. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were meticulously categorized, and relevant data were analyzed to draw insightful comparisons.
Results
Persian medicine describes spinach as a nutrient-rich, laxative, and fast-digesting agent with therapeutic effects on inflammation, lung diseases, back pain, sore throats, jaundice, urinary disorders, joint pain, eye inflammation, insomnia, dementia, and more. Modern studies have substantially corroborated these traditional uses, revealing that spinach possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, blood sugar-lowering, lipid-lowering, anti-obesity, neurological, ocular, and musculoskeletal effects.
Conclusion
Spinach exhibits a wide range of beneficial effects on various health conditions. Its widespread availability, low cost, and exceptional nutritional richness position it as a promising candidate for further investigation. Future studies should explore the clinical effectiveness of spinach in various diseases, while taking into consideration the principles emphasized in Persian medicine to guide research and inform therapeutic strategies.
... Spirulina is a plentiful source of various minerals, including potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, and zinc (Tokusoglu & Uunal, 2003). The administration of Sp has been discovered to mitigate the cardiac damage resulting from chemotherapy (Khan et al., 2005), reduce the severity of strokes, and enhance the recovery of motor function after a stroke (Wang et al., 2005). Additionally, it has shown the ability to reverse age-related declines in memory and learning. ...
... Additionally, it has shown the ability to reverse age-related declines in memory and learning. Sp has also demonstrated effectiveness in preventing and treating hay fever by stimulating immunological activities (Chen et al., 2005). ...
Abstract
Background: Arsenic (As) contributes to metabolic disorders, including
diabetes, and disrupts the functions of multiple systems, leading to associated
diseases and dysfunctions. This study aims to investigate the effects of
Arsenic on plasma and liver enzymes, assess liver tissue histopathological
changes, and explore spirulina's potential protective role against As-induced
liver damage. Materials and Methods: Female Wistar rats were divided into
six groups, including control, sodium arsenate-only (5mg/kg body weight),
Sp-only (300mg and 600mg), and combined As and Sp treatment groups.
Plasma and liver samples were collected after four weeks of treatment for
enzyme analysis, and part of the liver tissues were examined histologically.
Results: Arsenic exposure significantly increased aspartate aminotransferase
(AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate
dehydrogenase (LDH) enzyme levels in plasma and liver. However, Sp
supplementation at different doses showed a reduction in enzyme levels,
although not statistically significant. Histological examination revealed liver
damage in the As-exposed group, including congestion, leukocyte infiltration,
and endothelium detachment. Sp supplementation partially attenuated these
changes. Conclusion: This study enhances understanding of As's toxic effects
and suggests that Sp supplementation may offer some protection against As-induced liver damage. Recommendation: To improve the findings,
additional parameters such as oxidative stress markers, inflammatory
markers, and liver function tests should be incorporated. These measurements
will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of arsenate
exposure.
... Spirulina may also protect against ischemic damage -when mice were fed Spirulina pellets prior to stroke-inducing surgery, the total distance traversed on post-operative behavioral tests was greater. Post-mortem dissection showed decreased infarction size compared to the other groups [17]. ...
... Over the final 4 min, the time in which mice are actively swimming [mobility] and passive floating [immobility] is recorded by the Ethovision system and scored by a blinded observer. Anti-depressant medication has been shown to decrease immobility in the tail suspension and forced swim test [16,17] Elevated plus-maze: The test apparatus consists of two open arms [30*5 cm] bordered by a 1 cm high rim across from each other and perpendicular to two closed arms bordered by a rim of 16 cm. The centre of the maze, in which the 4 arms converge, is a 5*5 cm platform. ...
Aim
Spirulina is a microalga that is widely used as a food supplement and is regarded as having performance enhancing and health promoting properties. We conducted a preliminary evaluation of the possible antidepressant, anti-anxiety, pro-socialization and cognition-enhancing effects of Spirulina in mouse models
Methods
Sixty male BalbC mice aged 3 weeks were administered phycocyanin-rich Spirulina extract [PRSE, 545 mg/kg], fluoxetine [20 mg/kg] or water orally for 5 weeks. During the last 2 weeks of the experiment a series of behavioral-cognitive tests was performed to evaluate motor activity, antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, socialization and cognitive effects. Effects of PRSE and fluoxetine were compared to those of water.
Results
There was a significant effect of PRSE in the activity domain, manifesting as an increase in velocity in the open field [p=0.0007 vs. water]. Fluoxetine significantly enhanced immobility in the tail suspension test and the forced swim test reflecting the known antidepressant effect of this compound, but not PRSE. There were no significant effects of PRSE in tests of anxiety, socialization or cognition.
Conclusions
The most striking observation in this study was that PRSE significantly enhanced activity in the open field test. Further studies are indicated to confirm and extend this finding and investigate possible mechanisms of action. The results of the current study do not support sporadic reports of possible antidepressant or cognition-enhancing effects of PRSE. Nevertheless, additional studies are indicated using depression models rather than naïve mice, alternative mouse strains, using additional cognitive tests, and administering higher PRSE doses.
... Spirulina may also protect against ischemic damage -when mice were fed Spirulina pellets prior to stroke-inducing surgery, total distance traversed on post-operative behavioral tests was greater. Post-mortem dissection showed decreased infarction size compared to the other groups (17). ...
... Over the final 4 min, the time in which mice are actively swimming (mobility) and the time of passive floating (immobility) is recorded by the Ethovision system and scored by a blinded observer. Antidepressant medication has been shown to decrease immobility in the tail suspension and forced swim test (16,17) Elevated plus maze: The test apparatus consists of two open arms (30*5 cm) bordered by a 1 cm high rim across from each other and perpendicular to two closed arms bordered by a rim of 16 cm. The centre of the maze, in which the 4 arms converge, is a 5*5 cm platform. ...
Aim
Spirulina is a microalga that is widely used as a food supplement and is regarded as having performance enhancing and health promoting properties. We conducted a preliminary evaluation of the possible antidepressant, anti-anxiety, pro-socialization and cognition-enhancing effects of Spirulina in mouse models.
Methods
Sixty male BalbC mice aged 3 weeks were administered phycocyanin-rich Spirulina extract (PRSE, 545 mg/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) or water orally for 5 weeks. During the last 2 weeks of the experiment a series of behavioral-cognitive tests was performed to evaluate motor activity, antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, socialization and cognitive effects. Effects of PRSE and fluoxetine were compared to those of water.
Results
There was a significant effect of PRSE in the activity domain, manifesting as an increase in velocity in the open field (p=0.0007 vs. water). Fluoxetine significantly enhanced immobility in the tail suspension test and the forced swim test reflecting the known antidepressant effect of this compound, but not PRSE. There were no significant effects of PRSE in tests of anxiety, socialization or cognition.
Conclusions
The most striking observation in this study was that PRSE significantly enhanced activity in the open field test. Further studies are indicated to confirm and extend this finding and investigate possible mechanisms of action. The results of the current study do not support sporadic reports of possible antidepressant or cognition-enhancing effects of PRSE. Nevertheless, additional studies are indicated using depression models rather than naïve mice, alternative mouse strains, using additional cognitive tests, and administering higher PRSE doses.
... Dietary spirulina attenuates the microglial activation, brain inflammatory cascade, ischemic brain damage, cerebral infarct size, and neuron apoptosis (e.g., caspase-3 activity) in adult rats. [27] Spirulina possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. [28] Administration of spirulina during pregnancy results in rise in the birth weight of offspring. ...
... [38] Spirulina is a nutrient-rich microalgae that own biological activities, highlighting its potential in the therapeutics of brain disorders. [27] In the present protocol, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of spirulina (S. platensis) in the management of VaD using L-methionine-induced VaD model in rats. Serum analysis showed that chronic administration of L-methionine markedly enhanced the blood HCy and total cholesterol content in rats. ...
... Spirulina platensis (or Arthrospira platensis, Sp) is a filamentous cyanobacterium comprising minerals (particularly iron), vitamins, essential fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and pigments. Sulfated polysaccharides, γ-linolenic acid, proteins, and phycocyanin are the main bioactive constituents that appear to be important in promoting better functions of the human body (Wang et al., 2005). Medical experts are interested in spirulina because of its unique qualities, which include antiviral, anticancer, antiinflammatory, antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects (Parham et al., 2020;Fais et al., 2022;Jongrungraungchok et al., 2023). ...
... Spirulina platensis (or Arthrospira platensis, Sp) is a filamentous cyanobacterium comprising minerals (particularly iron), vitamins, essential fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and pigments. Sulfated polysaccharides, γ-linolenic acid, proteins, and phycocyanin are the main bioactive constituents that appear to be important in promoting better functions of the human body (Wang et al., 2005). Medical experts are interested in spirulina because of its unique qualities, which include antiviral, anticancer, antiinflammatory, antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects (Parham et al., 2020;Fais et al., 2022;Jongrungraungchok et al., 2023). ...
Background
Cardiotoxicity is one of the limiting side effects of the commonly used anticancer agent cyclophosphamide (Cyclo).
Materials and methods
The possible protective effects of telmisartan and nanoformulated Spirulina platensis (Sp) methanolic extract against Cyclo-induced cardiotoxicity were examined in this study. Experimental groups of rats were randomly divided into nine groups as control vehicle, control polymer, telmisartan (TEL, 10 mg/kg), free Sp extract (300 mg/kg), nano Sp extract (100 mg/kg), Cyclo (200 mg/kg), TEL + Cyclo, free Sp + Cyclo, and nano Sp + Cyclo. The groups with Cyclo combinations were treated in the same manner as their corresponding ones without Cyclo, with a single dose of Cyclo on day 18.
Results
The results indicate that Cyclo causes significant cardiotoxicity, manifesting in the form of notable increases of 155.49%, 105.74%, 451.76%, and 826.07% in the serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) enzyme activities, respectively, as compared to the control. In addition, the cardiac glutathione (GSH) content and activity of glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX-1) enzyme decreased by 65.94% and 73.85%, respectively. Treatment with nano Sp extract showed the most prominent restorations of the altered biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical features as compared with those by TEL and free Sp; moreover, reductions of 30.64% and 43.02% in the p-AKT content as well as 60.43% and 75.30% of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) immunoreactivity were detected in the TEL and free Sp treatment groups, respectively. Interestingly, nano Sp boosted the autophagy signal via activation of beclin-1 (36.42% and 153.4%), activation of LC3II (69.13% and 195%), downregulation of p62 expressions (39.68% and 62.45%), and increased gene expressions of paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) (90.3% and 225.9%) compared to the TEL and free Sp treatment groups, respectively.
Conclusion
The findings suggest the protective efficiency of telmisartan and nano Sp extract against cardiotoxicity via activations of the antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and autophagy signaling pathways.
... Wang et al. showed that after ischemia/reperfusion, rats who were pre-treated with approximately 30 g of a Spirulina-enriched diet for four weeks showed reduced cerebral infarction and lower caspase-3 activity (p < 0.05) compared to the control group indicating a neuroprotective effect of blue-green alga [47]. The anti-apoptotic property was also demonstrated by Almeida and colleagues, who found that 30 days of Spirulina extract administration led to an increase in viable neurons in the perilesional fields of rats 24 h after an induced hemorrhage. ...
In recent decades, as a result of rising mortality rates due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), there has been a growing urgency to find alternative approaches to conventional pharmaceutical treatment to prevent the onset of chronic diseases. Arthrospira platensis, commonly known as Spirulina, is a blue-green cyanobacterium, classified as a “superfood”, used worldwide as a nutraceutical food supplement due to its remarkable nutritional value, lack of toxicity, and therapeutic effects. Several scientific studies have evaluated the cardioprotective role of Spirulina. This article presents a comprehensive review of the therapeutic benefits of Spirulina in improving cardio- and cerebrovascular health. It focuses on the latest experimental and clinical findings to evaluate its antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic properties. The objective is to highlight its potential in preventing and managing risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).
... Additionally, Spirulina also retards neurological damage in ageing animals, ALS, and decreases the damage caused by strokes, which furthermore increases its importance in preventing Ischemic brain damage (Wang et al., 2005). ...
... The antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidant properties of spinach are widely known (Vazquez et al., 2013). Additionally, adding spinach to the diet can improve post-ischemic stroke brain damage recover, likely due to antiapoptosis, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms (Wang et al., 2005). Again many studies have highlighted that eating spinach more than twice a week reduced the risk of developing breast cancer and the spread of prostate cancer compared to people who didn't eat spinach (Asai et al., 2004, Longnecker et al., 1997. ...
... Moreover, it was reported that spinach had antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, serum lipid lowering, antimicrobial, and anticarcinogenic activity, when ingested as a food or used in the form of extract and freeze-dried powder (Roberts and Moreau, 2016). For examples, the methanolic extract of spinach prevented retinal inflammation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by decreasing the level of NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB), NOX 4 (NADPH oxidase 4), and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) (Bautista-Pérez et al., 2021), spinach-rich diet inhibited brain damage in post-ischemic stroke by reducing the activity of caspase 3 in the ischemic hemisphere (Wang et al., 2005). However, previous studies usually focused on evaluating the functional properties of spinach (as a combination of various phytochemicals) in cell cultures and animal models, lacking description of the specific effective compound(s). ...
The formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in daily diets poses a great threat to human health, since AGEs are closely related to some chronic metabolic diseases. In this study, we investigated the antiglycative capabilities of some popular microgreens in chemical model. Our data indicated that baby spinach (Spinacia oleracea) had the highest antiglycative activity during 4-wks incubation, with antioxidation being the main action route. Moreover, a bread model was set up to evaluate its antiglycative potential in real food model. The results showed that the fortification of baby spinach in bread significantly inhibited AGEs formation, with acceptable taste and food quality. Further study revealed that the antiglycative components were mainly distributed in leaves, which were separated via column chromatography and tentatively identified as chlorophyll derivatives. In summary, this study highlighted the antiglycative benefits of baby spinach which can be developed into healthy functional foods.
... On the other hand, there was a significant improvement in the SN and the striatal areas in brains of rotenone-treated mice by Spirulina supplementation in groups IV and V. These results agree with results obtained by Wang et al. [47] and Ange and associates [48]. ...
Background: Rotenone, a chemical compound produced naturally by leguminous plants, has conventionally been used as a pesticide by blocking the uptake of oxygen by body cells. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of spirulina on oxidative damage, inflammation, and neurotoxicity in male mice treated by rotenone.
Methods: The experimental animals were divided into 5 groups. Group (I) served as control that received Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO); Group (II) mice treated with rotenone (1.5 mg/kg, s.c.3 times per week); Group (III) mice received rotenone/L-dopa (25 mg/kg, P.O. daily); Group (IV) and Group (V) mice were treated with rotenone/spirulina (200 and 400 mg/kg, P.O. daily) respectively for two weeks.
Results: Rotenone-treated mice indicated impaired motor coordination and activity in wire hanging, wood walking, open field, and stair tests. Furthermore, rotenone treatment caused elevation in striatal levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO), Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF-α), Interleukin -1 beta (IL-1β), and caspase 3 and decrement in Bcl-2; dopamine and Glutathione (GSH) levels. Moreover, severe neuronal degeneration, striatal DNA fragmentation, and increased striatal 8-OHdG levels and MTH1 expression in the rotenone group. Additionally, spirulina treatment prevented rotenone-induced motor deficits striatal DNA fragmentation and demonstrated good restoration of the substantial neurons with reservation of the typical dark appearance. Besides, rotenone-induced biochemical changes were ameliorated by spirulina treatment as dopamine, Bcl-2, and GSH levels were increased, and striatal MDA, TNF-α, IL-1β, and caspase 3 levels were decreased.
Conclusion: Natural products like spirulina could reverse rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in male mice due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
... Many animal trials revealed additional beneficial properties of Spirulina, such as increased fertility [51], improved wound healing [52], protection against chemical-induced nephrotoxicity [53], and cardiotoxicity [54]. In an animal study by Wang., et al. (2007), the researchers reported Spirulina's neuroprotective effects (in cerebral ischemia) [55]. Table 1 summarizes the benefits and active components found in this microalgae (through which it exerts its favorable effects). ...
Spirulina is a cyanobacteria (blue-green alga) rich in vital nutrients, having tremendous potential as a "future food". The utility of algae is not limited to providing nutrition. Specific alga can perform the following functions: immunomodulator, anti-allergic, cleanses the body of toxins, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and abstergent (cleansing the body of toxins). Spirulina has been a vital dietary component for humans for millennia. The United Nations recognizes Spirulina as a potential defense against malnutrition. The current evidence in support of Spirulina points towards perfoming further research regarding the promising applications of Spirulina. These organisms are a rich source of bioactive compounds and, thus, should be considered as an alternative and supplementary therapy-albeit with scientific support and evidence-based studies. The revolution in functional foods continues as the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases is increasing. The most notable experiments have been conducted in studying Spirulina's effect on metabolic disorders, revealing its ability to reduce cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood glucose. Also, Spirulina has particular applications in cancer research, protecting against the adverse effects of specific chemotherapeutic agents. Microalgae can also form special supplements for vegetarians, offsetting the absence of protein in the vegan diet. Nevertheless, Spirulina also has a negative side and potential adverse effects. Self-medication with Spirulina supplements can lead to unwanted complications if a person is taking immunosuppressants or anticoagulants concomitantly or suffering from auto-immune diseases. Children and pregnant women should avoid these products until more applicable data are obtained. Also, some people may have an inherent allergy to algal products.
... It was demonstrated that treatment with Spirulina-enriched diets increases cerebellar glutathione (GSH) levels, reduces malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, and ameliorates both spatial and motor learning in aged rats [24,46,47]. In cerebral ischemia, a condition marked by cerebral hypoxia with the generation of free radicals, ROS or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and energy crisis, Spirulina treatment evidenced neuroprotective effects with progressive decline in TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity in the ischemic hemisphere [48]. In Sprague Dawley rats with partial crush injury induced at the level of T12, supplementation of Spirulina revealed an advance in the fine ultrastructure of spinal cord gray matter when compared to the control group, thereby indicating the neuroprotective potential of Spirulina in mitigating the effects of spinal cord injury and causing functional recovery [49]. ...
Spirulina is a microscopic, filamentous cyanobacterium that grows in alkaline water bodies. It is extensively utilized as a nutraceutical food supplement all over the world due to its high levels of functional compounds, such as phycocyanins, phenols and polysaccharides, with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulating properties both in vivo and in vitro. Several scientific publications have suggested its positive effects in various pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, obesity, hypertension, tumors and inflammatory diseases. Lately, different studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective role of Spirulina on the development of the neural system, senility and a number of pathological conditions, including neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. This review focuses on the role of Spirulina in the brain, highlighting how it exerts its beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, acting on glial cell activation, and in the prevention and/or progression of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis; due to these properties, Spirulina could be considered a potential natural drug.
... nucleases), which eventually becomes cell death (36,37). Neuroprotective substances such as antioxidants and free radical scavengers play important roles in protecting neurons from ischemic damage (38). Plants and natural substances are medicinal substances that have been used for the treatment of human diseases for many years (39). ...
Background:
Consumption of antioxidants is effective on reducing the damage caused by cerebral ischemia.
Objectives:
We investigated the effect of Pistacia vera (pistachio) pretreatment on the morphology of the cornu ammonis (CA1) region of hippocampus neurons of the rats' hippocampus following transient focal cerebral occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA).
Methods:
In this study, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups of control, ischemia, and pretreatment with pistachio (fed with pistachio at 6% of the diet for a five-week duration before the right MCA occlusion). Neurological scores of the rats were assessed using Baderson rating. Thereafter, the animals' balance and muscle power were assessed by Rotarod and forelimb wire-grip strength tests, respectively. Finally, histopathological and morphometrical characteristics of hippocampal neurons were studied using Hematoxylin-Eosin method.
Results:
Neurological scores of the ischemia group significantly decreased compared to the control group (p<0.05), while pretreatment with pistachio significantly improved Baderson rating scores compared to the ischemia group (p<0.05). Although stroke significantly decreased the balance and muscular strength in the studied rats compared to the normal rats (p<0.05), pistachio's exposure significantly increased the balance and muscular strength compared to the ischemia group (p<0.05). Additionally, a significant decrease was observed in the volume of stroke and neuronal degradation in the pistachio-treated rats compared with the ischemia group (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
Pistachio consumption reduces the volume of infarction and neuronal damage and improves neurological disorders after ischemia. Therefore, pretreatment with pistachio would have a protective effect against stroke.
... It is well known that SP has antioxidant properties. [19][20][21][22] It plays roles in various stages of free radical generation by restoring the decreased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and by reducing glutathione 23 or by reducing oxidative stress damage and augmenting antioxidant catalase activity. 21 In addition, SP has immunomodulatory properties 24-26 and antitumoral effects against ultraviolet B irradiation in the skin through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. ...
Purpose:
To evaluate the radioprotective effect of spirulina (SP) on the lacrimal glands after RAI treatment.
Methods:
A total of 30 rats were separated into control, RAI and SP group. The radioprotective effect of SP on lacrimal glands was evaluated with histopathological and cytopathological analysis. Lacrimal glands were analyzed for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels.
Results:
RAI increased TNF-α (p = .001), IL-6 (p = .018), and NF-κB levels (p < .0005). Following the administration of SP, TNF-α (p < .0005), IL-4 (p = .026), and IL-6 (p = .006) levels decreased. RAI decreased the TAC levels (p = .001), and co-administration of SP increased the TAC level, but was not statistically significant. SP decreased the TOS level after RAI (p = .022) .
Conclusions:
SP protects lacrimal glands from RAI-induced damage.
... As reported in the discussion of the neuroprotective effects of Vaccinium fruit, long-term blueberry feeding mitigated damage to specifi c regions of the hippocampus in a rat model of ischaemic stroke (Sweeney et al., 2002). Results supporting a benefi cial role for blueberries in reducing ischaemic stroke damage were also later reported by Wang et al. (2005). Neto (2007) has recently reviewed the literature on Vaccinium fruit in cancer chemoprevention. ...
This book has 19 chapters focusing on the beneficial effects of the consumption of fruits and vegetables on human health. Some of the most common fruits and vegetables, their biologically active constituents and their medicinal properties are discussed. Some methodologies used for the extraction, isolation, characterization and quantification of these biologically active compounds and evaluation of their in vitro and in vivo activities are also presented.
... Spirulina contains protein, carbohydrates, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, and vital elements (Kulshreshtha et al., 2008;Soheili & Khosravi-Darani, 2011). This microalga is also a rich source of B12, beta-carotene (Belay, 2002), phycocyanin, and phycocyanobilin (Wang et al., 2005). Spirulina has attracted the attention of medical researchers due to having specific properties such as antioxidant, anticancer, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, immunomodulatory, and improving several diseases such as allergy, ulcer, anemia, and toxicity due to heavy metal and harmful rays (Hoseini et al., 2013;Kulshreshtha et al., 2008;Lee et al., 1998;Wu et al., 2016). ...
Cyclophosphamide is an antitumor agent that causes disorders in fertility. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Spirulina platensis against Cyclophosphamide-induced testicular toxicity. 42 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups. Experimental groups included three groups. The first experimental group received Cyclophosphamide at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight (BW) orally. The second and third experimental groups received 5 mg/kg BW Cyclophosphamide and 500 and 1,000 mg/kg BW S. platensis orally, respectively. The control groups included a control group, and two S. platensis control groups. Following 28 days, two flow cytometry techniques were used to determine sperm apoptosis and testicular protein expression of tumor protein (p53) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that causes the cell to enter the apoptosis cycle after DNA damage and Bcl-2 is an anti-apoptotic protein that acts through the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. FITC-Annexin V assay was used for sperm apoptosis evaluation. For protein expression assay, primary and secondary antibodies staining were performed. The Cyclophosphamide group showed a significant increase in sperm apoptosis compared to the control group. Cyclophosphamide significantly increased p53 and decreased Bcl-2 expression compared to the control group. S. platensis co-treated groups exhibited a significant decrease in sperm apoptosis compared to the Cyclophosphamide group. Moreover, S. platensis co-treated groups displayed a significant decreasing in p53 and increasing in Bcl-2 expression compared to the Cyclophosphamide group. The results of this study indicated that S. platensis protected rats against Cyclophosphamide-induced reproductive toxicity.
Practical applications
Cyclophosphamide is the chemotherapy agent used to treat different cancers. Cyclophosphamide has side effects on the male reproductive system. Spirulina plantesis has a protective effect because of its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. Co-administration of Spirulina plantesis with Cyclophosphamide reduces sperm apoptosis also decreases P53 protein expression and increases Bcl-2 protein expression. This study validated the anti-apoptotic potential of Spirulina plantesis against Cyclophosphamide-induced male reproductive toxicity.
... Seaweed-microbiota interaction can lead to the production of small bioactive molecules, which can affect intestinal ecology and subsequently host brain health by growth-promoting (prebiotic) effects of specific bacterial genera involved in the production of neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin [4,6]. Experimental evidence has shown that bioactive seaweed-derivatives can reach and enter the brain and modulate multiple neuronal functions both directly, through specific neuronal molecules and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and indirectly by epigenetic mechanisms affecting the transcription of proteins involved in neurotransmissions, neuronal survival, and plasticity [7][8][9][10][11][12][13]. ...
Spirulina microalgae contain a plethora of nutrient and non-nutrient molecules providing brain health benefits. Numerous in vivo evidence has provided support for the brain health potential of spirulina, highlighting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective mechanisms. Preliminary clinical studies have also suggested that spirulina can help to reduce mental fatigue, protect the vascular wall of brain vessels from endothelial damage and regulate internal pressure, thus contributing to the prevention and/or mitigating of cerebrovascular conditions. Furthermore, the use of spirulina in malnourished children appears to ameliorate motor, language, and cognitive skills, suggesting a reinforcing role in developmental mechanisms. Evidence of the central effect of spirulina on appetite regulation has also been shown. This review aims to understand the applicative potential of spirulina microalgae in the prevention and mitigation of brain disorders, highlighting the nutritional value of this “superfood”, and providing the current knowledge on relevant molecular mechanisms in the brain associated with its dietary introduction.
... The neuroprotective effect of Spirulina platensis was established in adult Sprague-Dawley rats with ischemic reperfusion injury. Spirulina platensis (0.33% of the diet weight) for 4 weeks significantly reduced the volume of cerebral cortex infarction and increased post-stroke locomotor activity (Wang et al. 2005). ...
Sains Malaysiana 50(3)(2021): 803-819http://dx.doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2021-5003-21Health Beneficial Properties of Spirulina in Preventing Non-Communicable Diseases - The Green Metabolic Regulator from the Sea(Manfaat Kesihatan Spirulina dalam Mencegah Penyakit Tidak Berjangkit - Pengatur Metabolik Hijau dari Laut)SOPHIA OGECHI EKEUKU, IMA-NIRWANA SOELAIMAN, KOK-YONG CHIN*ABSTRACTSpirulina is a type of cyanobacteria containing various micro- and macronutrients and has been used as a functional food. Due to its nutritional components, spirulina possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can potentially prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) triggered by inflammation and oxidative stress. This review aims to provide an overview of the effects of spirulina supplementation on NCDs derived from cellular, animals, and human studies. The current literature generally showed that spirulina could protect against NCDs, such as metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, gastric ulcer, hepatic, renal, and neurological disorders. These beneficial effects were mediated through the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of spirulina and seem to be dependent on dose and duration of treatment. Despite the abundance of preclinical studies, human clinical trials validating the effects of spirulina on NCDs are lacking. These preclinical findings warrant a proper clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of spirulina supplementation in protecting human against NCDs.
... Ascorbic acid is plentiful and LMW water-soluble antioxidant that directly scavenges the enhanced production of ROS (H 2 O 2 ), by its ability to donate the electrons in wide range of enzymatic and nonenzymatic reactions (Gill and Tuteja, 2010;Wang et al., 2005). It exists ubiquitously in photosynthetic cells, cell organelles, and apoplast, whereas, it is present in the reduced ascorbate form in the chloroplast (Smirnoff and Wheeler, 2000). ...
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the by-product of partially-reduced molecular oxygen during aerobic metabolism, thus inducing oxidative stress, provoking cellular damage, and ultimately cell death. In plants, ROS are produced by an oxidation-reduction reaction localized in different cellular compartments. Various biotic and abiotic factors result in excessive ROS production, which includes mainly singlet oxygen (1O2), superoxide anion (O2•−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radical (OH•), and perhydroxyl radical (HO2•) that cause damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids. Plants possess the unique antioxidant (enzymatic and nonenzymatic) defense system that works in coordination to detoxify and quench the ROS cytotoxicity and protects plants from lipid peroxidation. Besides their destructive role, ROS also play a crucial role as a secondary messenger in various cellular and biological processes, such as growth and development, and conformant of biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in plants. ROS functioning mainly depends on the regulatory mechanism of respiratory burst oxidase (RBOH) and its homologs that are known to involve in the various signaling pathways in different tissues activated under fluctuating environmental stimuli. This chapter mainly describes the different types and production sites of ROS, enzymatic and nonenzymatic scavenging mechanism, and ROS role as redox signaling in regulating abiotic stress response in plants.
... The compound is characterized by anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and analgesic activities (McFadden, 2013;Remsberg, Yáñez, Ohgami, Vega-Villa, & Davies, 2008), which makes Pte a potential agent for handling multiple disorders including IS (Acharya & Ghaskadbi, 2013;Saw et al., 2014). For example, the chronic treatment with blueberry enriched diets protected model rats against ischemic injuries by reducing infarct volume and improving post-stroke locomotor behaviors (Sweeney, Kalt, Mackinnon, Ashby, & Gottschall-Pass, 2002;Wang et al., 2005). The study by Joseph et al. also showed that the administration of Pte could improve cognitive performance in aged rats (Joseph, Fisher, Cheng, Rimando, & Shukitt-Hale, 2008). ...
Pterostilbene (Pte) can attenuate symptoms associated with ischemic stroke (IS). We aimed to explore the interaction between Pte and microRNAs (miRs) in protecting against IS. The changes in miR expression profile induced by Pte treatment were detected with microarray assay. Then the protective effects of Pte on SH-SY5Y cells and mice were assessed with a series of in vitro and in vivo assays. The results of microarray showed that 353 miRs were dys-expressed under the Pte treatment, including 108 up-regulated and 245 down-regulated miRs.MiR-21-5p showed the highest sensitivity to Pte. Pte suppressed apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells, improved tissue structure, and reduced infarct area in mice by inducing miR-21-5p and inhibiting PDCD4. By suppressing miR-21-5p level, the effects of Pte on SH-SY5Y cells were counteracted. Pte showed protective function on both neurons and cerebral tissues against IS injuries, and the function was associated with the induced miR-21-5p level.
... 126 Another recent study has demonstrated that the treatment with a Spirulina-enriched diet has lowered the ischemia-reperfusion-induced apoptosis and cerebral infarction by inhibiting the caspase-3 activity. 99 Spirulina treatment does not appear to interfere with the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin treatment. 40 One possible crucial mechanism that needs further investigation is the attenuation of the cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by Spirulina. ...
... Numerous reports have detailed the V. corymbosum L. (blueberry) fruit's benefits for human health [22,25]. It has been demonstrated to protect against cancer [26,27] stroke [28] and urinary tract disease [29]. Furthermore, another study has shown that a blueberry-abundant diet can improve short-term memory loss and re-establish the loss of balance and coordination in aging rats [30]. ...
Blueberries have seen an ascending production line boosted by World Health Organization (WHO) approvals for their contributions to a healthy diet and the evidence that they act against different diseases. This increase resulted in significant amounts of discarded leaves, which could be a valuable source of bioactive compounds. In the present study, ultrasound-assisted extraction technology was used to determine and compare the chemical and biological profiles of leaves from six commercial blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) varieties. Feruloylquinic acid was the major compound identified, ranging from 19.23 ± 0.18 mg/g (at the lowest level, registered in the Spartan variety) to 49.62 ± 0.41 mg/g (at the highest level, registered in the Nelson variety). Rutin was the second major compound identified, for which Toro, Nelson, and Elliot leaves registered the highest values, with 35.77 ± 0.19 mg/g, 32.50 ± 0.20 mg/g, and 31.53 ± 0.1 mg/g, respectively. Even though analogous polyphenols were detected in the six cultivars, their concentrations and amounts were different. The leaf extracts of the cultivars Toro, Elliot, and Nelson appear to be good sources of antioxidants, registering high percentage inhibitions of DPPH radicals, of 70.41%, 68.42%, and 58.69%, respectively. The blueberry leaf extracts had a strong antibacterial activity and a low antifungal capacity, and a low-to-moderate antimutagenic capacity towards Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains, with Toro leaf being the best candidate. All of these biological activities indicate health-related benefits, recommending them as suitable candidates for medical and pharmaceutical applications. The present paper adds significant knowledge to the field of blueberry leaves via chemical and biological profiles, supporting the ultrasound-assisted extraction technique as a useful and green method to provide alternative sources of bioactive compounds.
... Vaccinium myrtillus is a species of the genus Vaccinium from the family Ericaceae [20]. Fruit and aerial parts of plant are known as a natural source of food and drink due to their richness in nutritional and antioxidant compounds and can also be integrated into food supplements and pharmaceuticals for preventing urinary tract infections [21] and cerebral vascular accidents [22]. Bilberry has several effects such as prevention or even reversal in a considerable degree of age-related object memory decline of rats [23] and antioxidant [24,25], anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-neurodegenerative, and cardioprotective effects [26,27] due to their phenolic compounds, including proanthocyanidins, flavonoids, stilbenoids, phenolcarboxylic acid derivatives, and flavonol glycosides [20]. ...
Simple Summary: In poultry, diet composition influences growth performance, egg production, as well as digestion. In this study, the effects of dietary additives obtained from bilberry and walnut leaves powder on the digestive performances of Tetra SL hens were evaluated by histologic and morphometric analyses of the intestinal mucosa as well as by the enzymatic activity measurements of alpha-amylase, invertase, maltase, and trypsin correlated with cecum microbiota. Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of dietary inclusion of two additives at the final concentration of 0.5% bilberry (E1) and 1% walnut (E2) leaves powder in the basal diet on digestive health of hens. A total number of 90 Tetra SL hens were divided into two experimental groups (E1 and E2) and one control group (C) consisting of 30 hens each. After four weeks, 10 hens of each group were sacrificed and tissue samples and intestinal content were taken from the duodenum, jejunum, and cecum in order to perform histological, enzymatic, and microbiota analyses. In groups E1 and E2, the histological analysis showed a significant increase of villus height, resulting probably in increased absorption of nutrients in duodenum and jejunum. A decrease in the specific activity of alpha-amylase and trypsin in E1 and E2 for both duodenum and jejunum compared to the control one was also recorded. In addition, the maltase and invertase specific activity in duodenum increased, a tendency that was kept for maltase but not for invertase in jejunum. The cecal microbiota of E1 and E2 individuals was characterized by an increase of Firmicutes and Lactobacilli and a decrease of Enterobacteriaceae. In conclusion, our results indicate that bilberry and walnut leaves additives in feed may improve the health status of the poultry gastrointestinal tract.
... Spirulina also has neuroprotective ability where it considerably decreased the amount of violation of cerebral cortexand raised post stroke locomotor activity in rats. Executive of spirulina for long duration could reduce the ischemic brain destruction [44] as well as exhibited a defensive role in nervous system against oxidative strain initiated by disclosure to fluoride in the progeny of pregnant rats naked to fluoride [45]. ...
... Spirulina is cultivated around the world, its nutritional value and potential health benefits attracted its use as a functional food (Belay, 2002). Spirulina is used as a dietary supplement for human beings as well as in aquaculture, aquarium, and poultry industries, and is available in tablets, flake, and powder form (Belay, 2002;Wang et al., 2005). ...
... Spinach is well recognized for its antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic and antioxidant activity (Vazquez et al., 2013). Furthermore, supplementing the diet with spinach reduced post-ischemic stroke brain damage in rats, probably through anti-apoptosis as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms (Wang et al., 2005). Spinach or spinach extracts also have been studied in cancer. ...
Spinach fine powder is a good source of protein, fiber, antioxidant, and minerals, making it a suitable ingredient to be used in the formulation of foods with high nutritional or biological values. In the current study, spinach nano-powder (0.50, 1.00, 1.50, and 2%) was used in the manufacturing of ultra-filtered soft chesses (UF-soft chesses). The quality of the cheeses was assessed by measuring their chemical compositions, colors, sensory, and antioxidant properties. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed that particles of spinach powder followed a normal distribution pattern with an average diameter of about 328 nm. By increasing the addition of spinach nano-powder with retentate its content of fiber, minerals, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity was improved. Moreover, the total solid, protein and acidity contents increased significantly with the increased percentage of added spinach nano-powder reaching maximum values after four weeks of cold storage. Cheese containing 0.5% and 1% spinach powder demonstrated higher values for sensory parameters than other treatments. UF-cheese prepared in this work represents a novel functional dairy product that can potentially provide the human body with better nutrients.
... These effects were mediated by activation of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), which is an upstream activator of Akt, a major regulator of pro-survival signaling [116]. In agreement with these findings, it was also reported that anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich extracts attenuate p53 and JNK-dependent apoptosis and reduce caspase-3 activity in a model of ischemic injury induced by cerebral artery occlusion, which shares many pathological features with neurodegenerative disease such as oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and ultimately neuronal death [117,118]. ...
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are characterized by the death of neurons within specific regions of the brain or spinal cord. While the etiology of many neurodegenerative diseases remains elusive, several factors are thought to contribute to the neurodegenerative process, such as oxidative and nitrosative stress, excitotoxicity, endoplasmic reticulum stress, protein aggregation, and neuroinflammation. These processes culminate in the death of vulnerable neuronal populations, which manifests symptomatically as cognitive and/or motor impairments. Until recently, most treatments for these disorders have targeted single aspects of disease pathology; however, this strategy has proved largely ineffective, and focus has now turned towards therapeutics which target multiple aspects underlying neurodegeneration. Anthocyanins are unique flavonoid compounds that have been shown to modulate several of the factors contributing to neuronal death, and interest in their use as therapeutics for neurodegeneration has grown in recent years. Additionally, due to observations that the bioavailability of anthocyanins is low relative to that of their metabolites, it has been proposed that anthocyanin metabolites may play a significant part in mediating the beneficial effects of an anthocyanin-rich diet. Thus, in this review, we will explore the evidence evaluating the neuroprotective and therapeutic potential of anthocyanins and their common metabolites for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
... Similarly, in an experiment, it was observed that hyperlipidemic rats fed with a high fat-cholesterol diet and treated with spinach leaf extract presented a significant reduction in hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and an improvement in antioxidant levels (Ko et al., 2014). In addition, Wang et al. (2005) reported that spinach is able to lower caspase-3 activity in ischemic hemisphere, which is associated to a substantial reduction in infarction volume in the cerebral cortex and to an increase in post-stroke locomotor activity in rats fed with spinach-rich diet. The authors further hypothesized that some anti-inflammatory mechanisms may be involved in addition to the antioxidant activity in reducing brain damage. ...
... Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are another example of a potential health benefit of the consumption of phenolic compounds. Mursu et al. (2008) reported that high intakes of flavonoids were associated with a lower risk of suffering an ischemic stroke and CVD mortality in Finnish men aged from 42 to (Sarrafchi et al., 2016, Andres-Lacueva et al., 2005, Ebenezer et al., 2016, Wang et al., 2005, Jo et al., 2015, Zhang and Zhu, 2011, Shah et al., 2015. ...
Fruits and vegetables are one of the pillars of a healthy diet. However, individuals frequently disregard their importance for the maintenance of health and the homeostatic balance and have considerably lower ingestions of these products than recommended by regulatory bodies. The preparation and/or commercialization of fruit and vegetable beverages (with balanced nutrient and phytonutrient profiles) may be an interesting alternative to the direct consumption of fruits and vegetables as it provides an easy, on the go solution for this problem. Therefore, this chapter aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the possibilities of fruit and vegetable beverages as well as characterize the mains constituents responsible for the health benefits attributed to them.
Spirulina, blue-green algae is now worldwide used as a dietary supplement owing to its richness in protein (50-60%), antioxidants, essential fatty acids, etc. The amino acid composition of Spirulina protein ranks among the best in the plant world, more than that of soya beans. This review article serves as an overview of why Spirulina is considered as a ‘superfood’. Its methodologies of cultivation, richness in nutrients and bioactive components, therapeutic properties in the health food circuits, and versatile utilization in various food supplements are elaborately introduced. All possible fortification of Spirulina platensis emphasizing the elevation of nutrient levels in bakery products, beverages, dairy products, extruded snacks, energy bars, infant foods, and confectionaries is briefed. Beyond, these algae convert carbon dioxide into organic substances and produce oxygen during their growth in alkaline and saline water thereby not wasting fresh water and allowing the production in barren areas. Such an organism with a plethora of health profits to humans, animals and the environment is limitless and has probably more to offer in the future.
Abstract A berry is a little, pulpy fruit that is frequently edible. Berries often lack a stone or pit, are juicy, spherical, vibrantly colored, sweet, sour, or tart, and may contain a large number of pip or seed. Strawberries, Bill berries, Mulberries, blueberries, blackberries, red berries, and blackcurrants berries etc. Berries are a common ingredient in cakes, pies, jams, and preserves around the world. Some berries are significant commercially. The berry business and varieties of cultivated or wild berries vary from nation to nation. Berry fruits help prevent age-related neurodegenerative diseases (NDD) and enhance motor and cognitive abilities, according to recent clinical studies. The berry fruits can also alter signaling pathways that are important in neurotransmission, cell survival, inflammation, and neuroplasticity. Phytochemicals like caffeic acid, anthocyanin, quercetin, catechin, kaempferol, and tannin are linked to the neuroprotective agents of fruits berry Strawberries, Bill berries, Mulberries, blueberries, blackberries, red berries, and blackcurrants berries on neurodegenerative diseases Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease (PD), Hungtiton disease (HD), ischemic diseases. According to scientists, berries fruits are one of the best sources of vitamins, minerals, and disease-fighting nutrients and can help lower the risk of many age-related Neurodegenerative diseases in the society. We attempted to concisely highlight the positive effects of several berries advances in understanding the Pathogenetic mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
Spirulina is a natural product that is scientifically used in many fields due to its many beneficial contents such as antioxidants, essential amino acids, high-quality proteins and essential unsaturated fats. Spirulina is known as a nutriment-dense food as it has vitamins A, C, E and B and many minerals including calcium, zinc, magnesium and selenium. In particular, selenium and vitamin C are vitamins with antioxidant properties and protect our cells and tissues against potential damage. Due to these properties, Spirulina is used in food, cosmetics and medical fields. Since it contains antioxidant properties, it is used in several diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, anemia, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Many studies have investigated the properties of Spirulina and positive results have been obtained. Thereby, the significance of Spirulina has improved with its use in pharmacology, cosmetics, medicine and food. In this study, the importance of this microalgae, which has numerous benefits, has been tried to be emphasized with today’s approach and studies in the fields of biochemistry, biotechnology and medicine.
The health-promoting activities of fruits are in the limelight in view of the growing risks posed by civilisational diseases and are connected with polyphenols. The present study examined bilberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, redcurrant, cherry and plum for their polyphenolic content and biological activities. The contents of total polyphenolic compounds and their subclasses were determined. Liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry was used to characterise the polyphenolic profiles. Small dark fruits' antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cholinesterase activities were also extensively determined. Significant qualitative and quantitative differences in the analysed fruits' polyphenols composition and biological activities were demonstrated. The highest polyphenolic contents and antioxidant activities were established in blackcurrant fruit, but bilberry also had our attention due to an additional mild influence on antioxidant enzymes. The condensed tannin content in small dark fruits is developed. All tested fruits exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-cholinesterase activities.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various neurodegenerative conditions that impact behavioral and cognitive performance. Any disturbance in neuron-glia and glia-glia interactions along with associated signaling cascades is the governing factor in the pathophysiology of spectrum of neurological disorders. This chapter highlights the role of glial cells in regulating energy homeostasis (astrocytes, tanycytes, and microglia) and inflammatory response and activity of naturally occurring immunomodulators which are necessary for overall body and brain health. The results obtained from various research studies on curcumin, blueberries, Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia, Bacopa monnieri, Ganoderma lucidum, Allium sativum, and Spirulina are summarized here that might be beneficial for promoting research on brain health and cognitive performance in neurodegenerative conditions. Despite extensive research on the role of nutraceuticals in positively maintaining brain health, the glial involvement underlying these benefits remains only partly understood. Nevertheless, future studies are warranted in the field to address glioprotective potential of nutraceutical against neurodegenerative disorders.KeywordsEnergy homeostasisImmunomodulatorsNeuroinflammationNeuro-nutraceuticals
Background
An emerging body of evidence has highlighted the protective role of spirulina in human health. Thus, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to discern the effects of spirulina supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood pressure, sleep quality, mood, fatigue status, and quality of life among ulcerative colitis patients.
Methods
Eighty participants with ulcerative colitis were randomly allocated to receive, either, 1 g/day (two 500 mg capsules) spirulina (n=40) or placebo (n=40), in a clinical trial for eight weeks. Dietary intake, physical activity, sleep quality, mental health, fatigue status, and quality of life were assessed for each participant at baseline and trial cessation. Anthropometric indices and blood pressure were also assessed.
Results
Seventy-three participants completed the intervention. Our results revealed that spirulina supplementation significantly reduced sleep disturbances (p=0.03), while no significant changes occurred in the sleep quality score or other sleep parameters, vs. the placebo group (p> 0.05). Furthermore, a significant reduction in stress score (p=0.04) and increase in quality of life (p=0.03) was detected; but not anxiety, depression, or fatigue scores (p> 0.05). Additionally, anthropometric indices and blood pressure did not significantly change (p> 0.05).
Conclusion
An improved quality of life was observed among ulcerative colitis patients following spirulina supplementation, which could be attributed to improved sleep disturbance and stress status. Further clinical studies, with longer duration interventions and suitably powered sample sizes, are necessary to elucidate the veracity of our findings.
Despite intense preclinical research focusing on developing potential strategies of mitigating spinal cord injury (SCI), SCI still results in permanent, debilitating symptoms for which there are currently no effective pharmacological interventions to improve the recovery of the fine ultrastructure of the spinal cord. Spirulina platensis is thought to have potential neuroprotective effects. We have previously demonstrated its protective potential on the lesioned corticospinal tracts and behavioral recovery. In this study, spirulina, known for its neuroprotective properties was used to further explore its protective effects on spinal cord gray matter ultrastructural. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were used and divided into sham group (laminectomy without SCI), control group (SCI without S. platensis), and S. platensis group (SCI + 180 mg/kg S. platensis). All animals were anesthetized via intramuscular injection. A partial crush injury was induced at the level of T12. The rats were humanely sacrificed for 28 days postinjury for ultrastructural study. There were significant mean differences with respect to pairwise comparisons between the ultrastructural grading score of neuronal perikarya of control and the S. platensis following injury at day 28, which correlates with the functional locomotor recovery at this timepoint in our previous study. The group supplemented with spirulina, thus, revealed a better improvement in the fine ultrastructure of the spinal cord gray matter when compared to the control group thereby suggesting neuroprotective potentials of spirulina in mitigating the effects of spinal cord injury and inducing functional recovery.
Formally, phytoadaptogens extracted mainly from medicinal plants are not food substances, and their use in preventive nutrition is significantly limited. However, screening studies can detect phytoadaptogens in food plants, however in much smaller quantities. For example, phytoecdysteroids are biologically active substances (BAS), used to relieve chronic fatigue syndrome, reduce nervous and muscle fatigue, improve memory and attention processes. Phytoecdysteroids can be isolated not only from various medicinal plants, but also from food plants like spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and quinoa (Chenopōdium quīnoa). Researchers show interest in possible synergies in the manifestation of a wide range of pharmacological effects, determined by a combination of phytoecdysteroids and other biologically active substances of these food plants. The aim of this research is a brief analytical review of publications characterizing the spectrum of minor biologically active substances of spinach and quinoa, as well as those devoted to the experimental assessment of their pharmacological activity in experiments on laboratory animals. Results. An analysis of the publications presented in the review indicates that spinach and its extracts are promising food sources of phytoadaptogens, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, in particular quercetin, kempferol, phenolic acids (p-coumaric, ferulic), as well as lignans metabolized into biologically active phytoestrogens (enterolactone and enterodiol). The possible prophylactic effect of spinach is being actively studied in vivo in laboratory animals when modeling diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular and cancer diseases. Numerous adaptogenic effects and the neuroprotective effect of spinach and its extracts are shown, expressed in improving the memory and learning of animals. Publications of the last decade indicate an increased interest in such a promising food source of high-grade protein and a wide spectrum of biologically active substances, including phytoecdysteroids, as quinoa grains. More than 20 phenolic compounds in free or conjugated forms were found in quinoa grains; tannins, saponins, sterols, phytic acid, and ecdysteroids are present in small quantities. The consumptionof quinoa can have a beneficial effect on the organism, normalizing carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, reducing body weight and preventing excessive lipid peroxidation. The anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant effects of quinoa are widely discussed. Conclusion. Spinach, quinoa and their extracts are promising food sources of biologically active substances, their pharmacological action is confirmed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine by in vivo experimental studies. Accordingly, it is advisable to expand the use of these food plants for inclusion in biologically active dietary supplements, functional food ingredients and specialized food products for various purposes.
The effectiveness of curcumin in treating cerebral ischemia has been reported in recent studies. However, its mode of action is still not defined. The objective of the present study is to formulate collagen–curcumin nanocomposites which will work effectively against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Ischemic injury is followed by inflammatory damage and oxidative stress, which together contribute a lot in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia and may be considered a good target for treatment. The present study focused on examining the effectiveness of collagen–curcumin nanocomposites stabilized by increasing the degree of crosslinking in reducing oxidative stress associated with brain injury resulting from cerebral ischemia. The collagen nanoparticles were prepared by conjugating collagen on the surface of Tween©80 micelles, and further stabilizing them using crosslinkers. The effectiveness of the prepared nanocomposite was validated by performing infarct analysis followed by biochemical, behavioral, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. The outcomes of this study are promising for the use of collagen–curcumin nanocomposites in showing neuroprotective potential in treating ischemic injury.
Objective
Memory is one of the most complicated behaviors in humans and animals. Oxidative stress plays an important role in impairment of memory. The aim of this study was to evaluate if Spirulina plathensis could prevent memory deficit induced by scopolamine through suppressing oxidative stress.
Materials and methods
In the present study 54 male pup wistar rats (30 days old) were used. Animals randomly were divided into 9 groups [Saline + Saline (Control), Saline + Scopolamine 1 mg/kg, Saline + Scopolamine 2 mg/kg, Spirulina 100 mg/kg + Scopolamine 2 mg/kg, Spirulina 200 mg/kg + Scopolamine 2 mg/kg, Spirulina 400 mg/kg + Scopolamine 2 mg/kg, Spirulina 100 mg/kg + Saline, Spirulina 200 mg/kg + Saline, Spirulina 400 mg/kg + Saline] with 6 in each group. To detecting memory, inhibitory avoidance (IA) task (0.5 mA, 3 s footshock) was used. Immediately after training, scopolamine (or saline in control group) was injected intraperitoneally and 24 latter memory retention tests were recorded. Within 14 days prior to training, Spirulina plathensis or saline were used intragastrically.
Biochemical tests were included Malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity of serum measurement using thiobarbituric acid and Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) respectively.
Results
Scopolamine (2 mg/kg) significantly (P < .05) impaired memory retention compared to control group. Spirulina significantly (P < .05) improved scopolamine-induced memory deficit. Scopolamine (2 mg/kg) significantly (P < .05) increased MDA level, but Spirulina (200 mg/kg) significantly (P < .001) reversed MDA level toward its control level.
Conclusion
Spirulina improves scopolamine induced-memory deficit through inhibiting oxidative stress probably. Oxidative stress inhibition occurs through reducing MDA level.
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results from penetrating or compressive traumatic injury to the spine in humans or by the surgical compression of the spinal cord in experimental animals. In this study, the neuroprotective potential of Spirulina platensis was investigated on ultrastructural and functional recovery of the spinal cord following surgical-induced injury. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups; sham group, control (trauma) group, and experimental (S. platensis) group (180 mg/kg) of eight rats each. For each group, the rats were then subdivided into two groups to allow measurement at two different timepoints (day 14 and 28) for the microscopic analysis. Rats in the control and experimental S. platensis groups were subjected to partial crush injury at the level of T12 with Inox number 2 modified forceps by compressing on the spinal cord for 30 s. Pairwise comparisons of ultrastructural grading mean scores difference between the control and experimental S. platensis groups reveals that there were significant differences on the axonal ultrastructure, myelin sheath and BBB Score on Day 28; these correlate with the functional locomotor recovery at this timepoint. The results suggest that supplementation with S. platensis induces functional recovery and effective preservation of the spinal cord ultrastructure after SCI. These findings will open new potential avenue for further research into the mechanism of S. platensis-mediated spinal cord repair.
This present review mainly focused on providing a brief and latest information on antioxidants its classification, antioxidants role in human body, pharmacology of antioxidantsbenefits, list of foods which contain high an causes due to overdose of antioxidants.antioxidant metabolites and enzymes that act together to prevent oxidative damage to cellular components such as DNA, proteins and lipids. These systems of antioxidants prevent these reactive oxygen species (ROS) species from being formed or remove them before they can damage vital components of the cell
An accurate, reproducible method for determining the infarct volumes of gray matter structures is presented for use with presently available image analysis systems. Areas of stained sections with optical densities above that of a threshold value are automatically recognized and measured. This eliminates the potential error and bias inherent in manually delineating infarcted regions. Moreover, the volume of surviving normal gray matter is determined rather than that of the infarct. This approach minimizes the error that is introduced by edema, which distorts and enlarges the infarcted tissue and surrounding white matter.Keywords: Brain; Infarction; Nissl stain; Succinate dehydrogenase
Spirulina maxima, which is used as a food additive, is a microalga rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Spirulina contains phenolic acids, tocopherols and beta-carotene which are known to exhibit antioxidant properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of a Spirulina extract. The antioxidant activity of a methanolic extract of Spirulina was determined in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro antioxidant capacity was tested on a brain homogenate incubated with and without the extract at 37 degrees C. The IC50 (concentration which causes a 50% reduction of oxidation) of the extract in this system was 0.18 mg/ml. The in vivo antioxidant capacity was evaluated in plasma and liver of animals receiving a daily dose of 5 mg for 2 and 7 weeks. Plasma antioxidant capacity was measured in brain homogenate incubated for 1 h at 37 degrees C. The production of oxidized compounds in liver after 2 h of incubation at 37 degrees C was measured in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactant substances (TBARS) in control and experimental groups. Upon treatment, the antioxidant capacity of plasma was 71% for the experimental group and 54% for the control group. Data from liver spontaneous peroxidation studies were not significantly different between groups. The amounts of phenolic acids, alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene were determined in Spirulina extracts. The results obtained indicate that Spirulina provides some antioxidant protection for both in vitro and in vivo systems.
We investigated, by measuring oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), whether hyperoxia causes alterations in antioxidant status and whether these alterations could be modulated by dietary antioxidants. Rats were fed for 8 wk a control diet or a control diet supplemented with vitamin E (500 IU/kg) or with aqueous extracts (ORAC: 1.36 mmol Trolox equivalents/kg) from blueberries or spinach and then were exposed to air or >99% O2 for 48 h. Although the constituents of the extracts were not extensively characterized, HPLC indicated that blueberry extract was particularly rich in anthocyanins, and the spinach extract did not contain any anthocyanins. The ORAC was determined in samples without proteins [serum treated with perchloric acid (PCA); ORACPCA] and with proteins (ORACtot). Hyperoxia induced a decrease in serum protein concentration, an increase in serum ORACPCA, decreases in lung ORACPCA and ORACtot, and an equilibration of proteins and ORACPCA between serum and pleural effusion. These alterations suggested a redistribution of antioxidants between tissues and an increase in capillary permeability during hyperoxia. Only the blueberry extract was effective in alleviating the hyperoxia-induced redistribution of antioxidants between tissues.
Ample research indicates that age-related neuronal-behavioral decrements are the result of oxidative stress that may be ameliorated by antioxidants. Our previous study had shown that rats given dietary supplements of fruit and vegetable extracts with high antioxidant activity for 8 months beginning at 6 months of age retarded age-related declines in neuronal and cognitive function. The present study showed that such supplements (strawberry, spinach, or blueberry at 14.8, 9.1, or 18.6 gm of dried aqueous extract per kilogram of diet, respectively) fed for 8 weeks to 19-month-old Fischer 344 rats were also effective in reversing age-related deficits in several neuronal and behavioral parameters including: oxotremorine enhancement of K(+)-evoked release of dopamine from striatal slices, carbachol-stimulated GTPase activity, striatal Ca(45) buffering in striatal synaptosomes, motor behavioral performance on the rod walking and accelerod tasks, and Morris water maze performance. These findings suggest that, in addition to their known beneficial effects on cancer and heart disease, phytochemicals present in antioxidant-rich foods may be beneficial in reversing the course of neuronal and behavioral aging.
Methamphetamine neurotoxicity has been demonstrated in rodents and nonhuman primates. These neurotoxic effects may be associated with mechanisms involved in oxidative stress and the activation of immediate early genes (IEG). It is not clear, however, whether these IEG responses are involved in a methamphetamine-induced toxic cascade or in protective mechanisms against the deleterious effects of the drug. As a first step toward clarifying this issue further, the present study was thus undertaken to assess the toxic effects of methamphetamine in heterozygous and homozygous c-fos knock-out as well as wild-type mice. Administration of methamphetamine caused significant reduction in [(125)I]RTI-121-labeled dopamine uptake sites, dopamine transporter protein, and tyrosine hydroxylase-like immunohistochemistry in the striata of wild-type mice. These decreases were significantly exacerbated in heterozygous and homozygous c-fos knock-out mice, with the homozygous showing greater loss of striatal dopaminergic markers. Moreover, in comparison with wild-type animals, both genotypes of c-fos knock-out mice showed more DNA fragmentation, measured by the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end-labeled nondopaminergic cells in their cortices and striata. In contrast, wild-type mice treated with methamphetamine demonstrated a greater number of glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells than did c-fos knock-out mice. These data suggest that c-fos induction in response to toxic doses of methamphetamine might be involved in protective mechanisms against this drug-induced neurotoxicity.
Release of mitochondrial cytochrome c into the cytosol is a critical step in apoptosis. We have reported that early release of cytochrome c in vivo occurs after permanent focal cerebral ischemia (FCI) and is mediated by the mitochondrial antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD). However, the role of reactive oxygen species produced after ischemia-reperfusion in the mitochondrial apoptosis process is still unknown, although overexpression of copper/zinc-SOD (SOD1), a cytosolic isoenzyme, protects against ischemia-reperfusion. We now hypothesize that the overexpression of SOD1 also prevents apoptosis after FCI. To address this issue, we examined the subcellular distribution of the cytochrome c protein in both wild-type mice and in SOD1 transgenic (Tg) mice after transient FCI. Cytosolic cytochrome c was detected as early as 2 hr after reperfusion, and correspondingly, mitochondrial cytochrome c was significantly reduced after FCI. Cytosolic cytochrome c was significantly lower in the SOD1 Tg mice compared with wild types 2 (p < 0.0001) and 4 (p < 0.05) hr after FCI. Apaf-1, which interacts with cytochrome c and activates caspases, was constitutively expressed in both groups of animals, with no alteration after FCI. Double staining with cytochrome c immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated uridine 5'-triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling showed a spatial relationship between cytosolic cytochrome c expression and DNA fragmentation. A significant amount of DNA laddering was detected 24 hr after ischemia and was reduced in SOD1 Tg mice. These data suggest that SOD1 blocks cytosolic release of cytochrome c and could thereby reduce apoptosis after transient FCI.
To assess whether consumption of 500 ml of blueberry juice or cranberry juice by healthy female subjects increased plasma phenolic content and antioxidant capacity.
Latin square arrangement to eliminate ordering effects. After an overnight fast, nine volunteers consumed 500 ml of blueberry juice, cranberry juice or a sucrose solution (control); each volunteer participated on three occasions one week apart, consuming one of the beverages each time. Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture at intervals up to four hours after consumption of the juices. Urine samples were also obtained four hours after consuming the juice.
Consumption of cranberry juice resulted in a significant increase in the ability of plasma to reduce potassium nitrosodisulphonate and Fe(III)-2,4, 6-Tri(2-pyridyl)-s-triazine, these measures of antioxidant capacity attaining a maximum after 60-120 min. This corresponded to a 30% increase in vitamin C and a small but significant increase in total phenols in plasma. Consumption of blueberry juice had no such effects.
The increase in plasma antioxidant capacity following consumption of cranberry juice could mainly be accounted for by an increase in vitamin C rather than phenolics. This also accounted for the lack of an effect of the phenolic-rich but vitamin C-low blueberry juice. Sponsorship: Funded by the Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department and the Danish Government.
Radical-scavenging antioxidants, as part of the cellular defense system, function to inhibit the formation and propagation of free radicals and active oxygen species formation. In previous studies we demonstrated that endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) promotes oxidative stress and associated pathological changes in a rat model and that use of selected antioxidants was effective in reducing LPS-related lipid peroxidation product formation in the liver, as well as LPS-related pathological changes in different organs. In this study, several toxicological parameters (ie, clinical signs, blood chemistry, and histopathological changes) were compared among groups of male New Zealand rabbits injected with LPS following prophylactic pretreatment with either of 2 antioxidants, a group injected with LPS without pretreatment with antioxidants, groups injected with either of the 2 antioxidants only, and an untreated control group. The antioxidants used were a water-soluble natural antioxidant (NAO) from spinach and the NADPH oxidase inhibitor, apocynin. Exposure to LPS alone was associated clinically with depression, tachypnea, outer ear vasodilation, and iris congestion; biochemically with a significant increase in blood total bilirubin, transaminase activity, and glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels; macroscopically with multiple whitish areas in the liver; and histologically with hepatocellular focal necrosis and acute inflammation, thymic and splenic lymphoid necrosis and depletion, acute uveitis and hemorrhages in the ciliary processes, and decreased adrenal cortical cytoplasmic vacuolation considered consistent with depletion of steroidal hormone contents. The NAO had more effective prophylactic capacities than the apocynin. The protective effects were obvious in all investigated parameters. The results indicate the possible therapeutic efficacy of NAO in the treatment of clinical endotoxemia associated with gram-negative bacterial sepsis that is known to be associated with oxidative stress.
Doxorubicin (DOX) produces clinically restorative responses in numerous human cancers, but its cardiotoxicity has limited its usefulness. Because reactive oxygen species may affect DOX-induced antitumor activity and cardiotoxicity, we evaluated the prophylactic effect of spinach natural antioxidant (NAO) on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity and oxidative stress in female Balb/c mice using histological, electron microscopical and biochemical parameters. Mice were treated with NAO for 7 days prior to and/or for 6 days after DOX administration. Pretreatment with NAO (cumulative dose: 130 mg/kg) did not hinder the effectiveness of DOX. Light and electron microscopy of DOX-treated heart revealed myocardial degeneration. When administered combined before and after DOX, NAO conferred the most significant cardiac protection. The effects of NAO on the lipid peroxidation product, malondialdehyde, and on H2O2/ hydroperoxides were examined on day 6 following DOX administration; levels of both were elevated in DOX-treated mice, compared to control. Pretreatment with NAO prevented these changes. Pretreatment with NAO before DOX administration decreased catalase and increased superoxide dismutase activities compared to the DOX group. Our results suggest usage of NAO in combination with DOX as a prophylactic strategy to protect heart muscle from DOX-induced cellular damage.
Antioxidants and diets supplemented with foods high in oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) reverse age-related decreases in cerebellar beta-adrenergic receptor function. We examined whether this effect was related to the antioxidant capacity of the food supplement and whether an antioxidant-rich diet reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the cerebellum. Aged male Fischer 344 rats were given apple (5 mg dry weight), spirulina (5 mg), or cucumber (5 mg) either in 0.5 ml water by oral gavage or supplied in the rat chow daily for 14 d. Electrophysiologic techniques revealed a significant decrease in beta-adrenergic receptor function in aged control rats. Spirulina reversed this effect. Apple (a food with intermediate ORAC) had an intermediate effect on cerebellar beta-adrenergic receptor physiology, and cucumber (low ORAC) had no effect, indicating that the reversal of beta-adrenergic receptor function decreases might be related to the ORAC dose. The mRNA of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) and TNFbeta was also examined. RNase protection assays revealed increased levels of these cytokines in the aged cerebellum. Spirulina and apple significantly downregulated this age-related increase in proinflammatory cytokines, whereas cucumber had no effect, suggesting that one mechanism by which these diets work is by modulation of an age-related increase in inflammatory responses. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was measured as a marker of oxidative damage. Apple and spirulina but not cucumber decreased MDA levels in the aged rats. In summary, the improved beta-adrenergic receptor function in aged rats induced by diets rich in antioxidants is related to the ORAC dose, and these diets reduce proinflammatory cytokine levels.
Diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP 4 A), an endogenous diadenosine polyphosphate, reduces ischemic injury in the heart. In this study, we report the potent and protective effects of AP 4 A in rodent models of stroke and Parkinson's disease. AP 4 A, given intracerebroventricularly before middle cerebral artery (MCA) ligation, reduced cerebral infarction size and enhanced locomotor activity in adult rats. The intravenous administration of AP 4 A also induced protection when given early after MCA ligation. AP 4 A suppressed terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) induced by hypoxia/reperfusion in primary cortical cultures, and reduced both ischemia-induced translocation of mitochondrial cytochrome c and the increase in cytoplasmic caspase-3 activity in vivo . The purinergic P 2 /P 4 antagonist di-inosine pentaphosphate or P 1 -receptor antagonist sulfonylphenyl theophylline, but not the P 2 -receptor antagonist suramin, antagonized the effect of AP 4 A, suggesting that the observed protection is mediated through an anti-apoptotic mechanism and the activation of P 1 - and P 4 -purinergic receptors.
AP 4 A also afforded protection from toxicity induced by unilateral medial forebrain bundle injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). One month after lesioning, vehicle-treated rats exhibited amphetamine-induced rotation. Minimal tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity was detected in the lesioned nigra or striatum. No KCl-induced dopamine release was found in the lesioned striatum. All of these indices of dopaminergic degeneration were attenuated by pretreatment with AP 4 A. In addition, AP 4 A reduced TUNEL in the lesioned nigra 2 d after 6-OHDA administration. Collectively, our data suggest that AP 4 A is protective against neuronal injuries induced by ischemia or 6-OHDA through the inhibition of apoptosis. We propose that AP 4 A may be a potentially useful target molecule in the therapy of stroke and Parkinson's disease.
Experiments were carried out to assess spirulina fusiformis — a blue green algae as a source of vitamin A in rats. In one experiment, the control rats were fed synthetic vitamin A and the experimental rats spirulina as the sole source of vitamin A. The liver vitamin A concentration of spirulina-fed rats of both sexes was found to be significantly higher than that of the control rats. In another experiment the absorption of carotenes from the solvent extract of spirulina and their availability (vitamin A value) as judged by the levels of vitamin A and carotene in plasma and liver were compared with those of synthetic β-carotene or vitamin A in male rats. The absorption of β-carotene from spirulina extract tended to be lower than that of crystalline β-carotene at doses of 550 and 1100 μg of β-carotene. The difference became insignificant at lower β-carotene dose of 275 μg.
Spirulina carotene-fed rats did not show a strict dose related increase in the liver or serum vitamin A concentration. The liver vitamin A storage and plasma levels of vitamin A of spirulina carotene-fed rats was much hither than expected. The results of the two studies reported suggest that the algae spirulina can be a valuable source of vitamin A.
The effects of ingesting the alga Spirulina maxima on the storage and utilization of vitamins A and E were investigated by feeding diets containing 0, 2.7, 10.7, 18.7 and 26.7% S. maxima to male rats for 6 wk. All diets contained 18% protein, which was contributed by S. maxima or by casein or by a mixture of them. Growth results indicated that rats did not utilize the diets containing S. maxima as well as the casein control diet (0% S. maxima) when levels were 10.7% or more of the diet. The ingestion of S. maxima caused a significant increase in dry matter and chloroform-extractable crude fat in the feces. A low level of 2.7% S. maxima caused a significant reduction in plasma, liver and heart alpha-tocopherol levels. The concentrations of alpha-tocopherol in these tissues showed a marked decline with 10.7% S. maxima in the diet, followed by a lesser decline at higher levels. Liver retinoid levels of rats increased when S. maxima was added to the diet, suggesting conversion of the naturally occurring carotenoids in S. maxima to vitamin A. However, the plasma levels of retinol decreased when S. maxima was fed at 10.7% or more. These data demonstrate that S. maxima can significantly alter the storage and utilization of vitamins A and E.
In the search for a more reproducible focal ischemic stroke model in the rat, we systematically interrupted blood flow to the right middle cerebral artery territory by ligating the right middle cerebral artery, and the right and left common carotid arteries in succession. Using a laser-Doppler flowmeter, we found that the relative surface blood flow in cerebral cortex supplied by the right middle cerebral artery decreased to 62, 48, and 18% of baseline respectively after successive ligation of the right middle cerebral artery, and the right and left common carotid arteries. A focal infarct in the cerebral cortex supplied by the right middle cerebral artery was consistently noted after ligation of the right middle cerebral and the right common carotid arteries and temporary clip occlusion of the left common carotid artery for 60 min. The surface areas of infarction measured 100 +/- 6 mm2 and the maximal cross-sectional area of infarction was 10.4 +/- 1.1 mm2 (N = 10). The mortality rate was 7% (N = 70). The characteristic changes of ischemic necrosis were limited to the cortex with sparing of subcortical structures. No motor deficits occurred. Occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery alone or together with the right common carotid artery did not consistently cause gross infarction and the maximal cross-sectional area of infarction was smaller (the right middle cerebral artery, 1.7 +/- 0.8 mm2, N = 10; the right middle cerebral artery plus the right common carotid artery, 4.8 +/- 1.9 mm2, N = 10). Permanent ligation of the right middle cerebral artery and both common carotid arteries had a high mortality (60% in 3 days, N = 10).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Infarct volume is one of the common indexes for assessing the extent of ischemic brain injury following focal cerebral ischemia. Accuracy in the measurement of infarct volume is compounded by postischemic brain edema that may increase brain volume in the infarcted region. We evaluated the effect of brain edema on infarct volume determined by triphenyltetrazolium chloride and hematoxylin and eosin stains in a focal cerebral ischemia model in rats.
In a middle cerebral artery occlusion model in rats, infarction is confined to the cerebral cortex. The infarct was delineated by triphenyltetrazolium chloride stain and, in selected samples, by hematoxylin and eosin stain. We determined infarct size at different times after the ischemic insult (6 hours to 7 days) in relation to the evolution of brain edema by the direct measurement of infarct volume. Indirect measurement to reduce the effect of edema on infarct volume was also conducted in the same brain samples.
Direct measurement showed that infarct volume fluctuated with the evolution of brain edema (one-way analysis of variance, p < 0.0001). Infarct volume determined by indirect measurement was independent of the extent of brain edema and remained stable from 6 hours to 3 days after ischemia. There was a good correlation between triphenyltetrazolium chloride and hematoxylin and eosin stains in delineating infarct volume with both direct and indirect measurement.
Traditional direct measurement of infarct volume is associated with an overestimation of infarct volume during the development of brain edema in the first 3 days after ischemia. This artifact can be reduced with indirect measurement, which is based on noninfarcted cortex volume.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of Spirulina maxima, a blue-green alga used as food supplement and food coloring, after 13 weeks of treatment. Groups of ten mice of each sex were given S. maxima in the diet at concentrations of 0 (control), 10, 20 or 30% (w/w) for 13 weeks. The alga ingestion had no effect on behavior, food and water intake, growth or survival. Terminal values in hematology and clinical chemistry did not reveal differences between treated and control groups. However, male and female mice showed significant changes in serum cholesterol levels at 20 and 30% algal concentrations, but a toxic effect of S. maxima was excluded. Post-mortem examination revealed no differences in gross or microscopic findings. Our results show that S. maxima up to high feeding levels did not produce adverse effects in mice after subchronic treatment.
Evidence suggests that oxidative stress (OS) may contribute to the pathogenesis of age-related decrements in neuronal function and that OS vulnerability increases as a function of age. In addition to decreased endogenous protection, increases in OS vulnerability may result from changes in membrane lipids and distribution of receptor subtype. Using a PC-12 cell model system, we have shown that H2O2 or dopamine (DA) exposure induced deficits in the cell's ability to clear (extrude/sequester, E/S) Ca2+ that are similar to those seen in aging. When plasma membrane concentrations of sphingomyelin (SPM) were used, the SPM metabolite, sphingosine-1-phosphate was increased to the same levels as those seen in aging, and enhancement of OS-induced decreases in calcium E/S following KCL depolarization was observed. Differential decreases in CA2+ E/S were also seen following DA-induced OS in COS-7 cells transfected with one of five muscarinic receptor subtypes. Cells transfected with either M1, M2, or M4 receptors showed significantly greater vulnerability to OS (as expressed by greater decrements in calcium E/S and cell death) than those transfected with M3 or M5 receptors. The vitamin E analogue, Trolox, and the nitrone-trapping agent, PBN, were not effective in altering E/S decrements but were effective in preventing cell death 24 h after OS exposure. These findings suggest that putative regional (e.g., striatum and hippocampus) increases in OS vulnerability and loss of neuronal function in aging may be dependent upon membrane SPM concentration and receptor subtype. In related studies, attempts were made to determine whether increased OS protection via nutritional increases in antioxidant levels in rats [using diets supplemented with vitamin E (500IU/kg), strawberry extracts (9.4 g/kg dried aqueous extract, DAE), spinach (6.7 g/kg DAE), or blueberry extracts (10 g/kg DEA for six weeks)] would protect against exposure to 100% O2 (a model of accelerated neuronal aging). Results indicated that these diets were effective in preventing OS-induced decrements in several parameters (e.g., nerve growth factor decreases), suggesting that although there may be increases in OS vulnerability in aging, phytochemicals present in antioxidant-rich foods may be beneficial in reducing or retarding the functional central nervous system deficits seen in aging or oxidative insult.
Oxidative stress is probably involved in neuronal damage induced by ischemia-reperfusion. The purpose of this study was to assess the role of antioxidant activity in cerebral ischemic stroke.
Antioxidant activity of blood plasma and cerebrospinal fluid was assessed in 22 patients with cerebral hemisphere infarction that was verified and quantified by MRI.
Low total peroxyl radical trapping potential of plasma, but not of cerebrospinal fluid, was associated with high lesion volume and high neurological impairment assessed by scores on NIH Stroke Scale, Barthel Index, and Hand Motor Score tests. The plasma concentrations of ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, and protein thiols were also associated with the degree of neurological impairment.
These data suggest that the antioxidant activity of plasma may be an important factor providing protection from neurological damage caused by stroke-associated oxidative stress.
The free radical theory of aging predicts that reactive oxygen species are involved in the decline in function associated with aging. The present paper reports that diets supplemented with either spinach, strawberries or blueberries, nutritional sources of antioxidants, reverse age-induced declines in beta-adrenergic receptor function in cerebellar Purkinje neurons measured using electrophysiological techniques. In addition the spinach diet improved learning on a runway motor task, previously shown to be modulated by cerebellar norepinephrine. Motor learning is important for adaptation to changes in the environment and is thus critical for rehabilitation following stroke, spinal cord injury, and the onset of some neurodegenerative diseases. These data are the first to indicate that age-related deficits in motor learning and memory can be reversed with nutritional interventions.
Antioxidants may protect against atherosclerosis and thus prevent cerebrovascular disease. We studied the association between dietary antioxidants and subtypes of stroke.
The study cohort consisted of 26 593 male smokers, aged 50 to 69 years, without a history of stroke. They were participants of the Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Study in Finland. The men completed a validated dietary questionnaire at baseline. Incident cases were identified through national registers.
During a 6.1-year follow-up, 736 cerebral infarctions, 83 subarachnoid hemorrhages, and 95 intracerebral hemorrhages occurred. Neither dietary flavonols and flavones nor vitamin E were associated with risk for stroke. The dietary intake of beta-carotene was inversely associated with the risk for cerebral infarction (relative risk [RR] of highest versus lowest quartile 0.74, 95% CI 0.60 to 0. 91), lutein plus zeaxanthin with risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.93), and lycopene with risks of cerebral infarction (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.92) and intracerebral hemorrhage (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.86). Vitamin C intake was inversely associated with the risk for intracerebral hemorrhage (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.74). After simultaneous modeling of the antioxidants, a significant association remained only between beta-carotene intake and risk for cerebral infarction (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.99).
Dietary intake of beta-carotene was inversely associated with the risk for cerebral infarction. No association was detected between other dietary antioxidants and risk for stroke.
We report data from two related assay systems (isolated enzyme assays and whole blood assays) that C-phycocyanin a biliprotein from Spirulina platensis is a selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) with a very low IC(50) COX-2/IC(50) COX-1 ratio (0.04). The extent of inhibition depends on the period of preincubation of phycocyanin with COX-2, but without any effect on the period of preincubation with COX-1. The IC(50) value obtained for the inhibition of COX-2 by phycocyanin is much lower (180 nM) as compared to those of celecoxib (255 nM) and rofecoxib (401 nM), the well-known selective COX-2 inhibitors. In the human whole blood assay, phycocyanin very efficiently inhibited COX-2 with an IC(50) value of 80 nM. Reduced phycocyanin and phycocyanobilin, the chromophore of phycocyanin are poor inhibitors of COX-2 without COX-2 selectivity. This suggests that apoprotein in phycocyanin plays a key role in the selective inhibition of COX-2. The present study points out that the hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic properties of phycocyanin reported in the literature may be due, in part, to its selective COX-2 inhibitory property, although its ability to efficiently scavenge free radicals and effectively inhibit lipid peroxidation may also be involved.
Previous studies have indicated that both methamphetamine (MA) and ischemia/reperfusion injuries involve reactive oxygen species formation and activation of apoptotic mechanism. That MA could have a synergistic or additive effect with stroke-induced brain damage is possible. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether administration of MA in vivo would potentiate ischemic brain injury.
Adult CD-1 mice were pretreated with MA or saline. Each animal later was anesthetized with chloral hydrate and placed in a stereotaxic frame. A subset of animals received intracerebral administration of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). The right middle cerebral artery and bilateral carotids were transiently occluded for 45 minutes. Regional cerebral blood flow was measured by laser Doppler. Animals were sacrificed for triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and p53 mRNA Northern blot assay after 24 hours of reperfusion. Cortical and striatal GDNF levels were assayed by ELISA.
We found that pretreatment with MA increased ischemia-induced cerebral infarction. Ischemia or MA alone enhanced p53 mRNA expression. Moreover, MA potentiated expression of p53 mRNA in the ischemic mouse brain. MA pretreatment decreased GDNF levels in ischemic striatum. Intracerebral administration of GDNF before ischemia reduced MA-facilitated infarction.
Our data indicate that MA exacerbates ischemic insults in brain, perhaps through the inhibition of GDNF-mediated pathways and suggest that MA may antagonize endogenous neuroprotective pathways as part of its mechanism of action.
Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) and alpha-lipoic acid (LA) are commercially available "antioxidant supplements" with a variety of actions that may be beneficial during acute stroke. These actions include inhibiting platelet and leukocyte activation and adhesion, reducing free radical generation, and increasing cerebral blood flow. Both EGb and LA have been shown to be neuroprotective in cell culture and global central nervous system ischemia models. In this study we investigated the neuroprotective efficacy of EGb and LA in a clinically relevant, transient focal central nervous system ischemic model.
In the EGb study, 60 adult C57blk mice were randomized to treatment with EGb given orally (via gavage) for 7 days: low dose, 50 EGb mg/kg daily; high dose, 100 mg/kg daily; matched placebo. On day 7, reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion was produced by advancing a silicone-coated 8-0 filament into the internal carotid artery for 45 minutes followed by reperfusion. At 24 hours, the animals were evaluated on a 28-point clinical scale, and infarct volume was determined with the use of triphenyltetrazolium chloride. In the LA study, 24 C57blk mice were treated with 100 mg/kg SC of LA or placebo 1.5 hours before transient MCAO, as in the EGb study.
In the EGb study, values for infarct volume at 24 hours were as follows (mean+/-SD): low dose (n=18), 13+/-5 mm(3); high dose (n=22), 22+/-12 mm(3); placebo (n=20), 20+/-10 mm(3) (P:=0.03 overall; P=0.02, low dose versus placebo). Infarct percentage of hemisphere values were as follows: low dose, 14+/-5%; high dose, 21+/-11%; placebo, 20+/-9% (P=0.03 overall; P=0.02, low dose versus placebo). Ten percent of the high-dose group showed significant intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) within the infarct, while no ICH was seen in the other groups. Neurological function scores were as follows: low dose, 11.8+/-1.5; high dose, 11.4+/-1.7; placebo, 11.3+/-1.8 (P=NS). In the LA study, infarct volume was as follows: 100 mg/kg LA (n=12), 16.8+/-8.3 mm(3); placebo (n=12), 27.2+/-14.6 mm(3) (P<0.05). LA also produced a significant improvement in neurological function at 24 hours: LA, 9.5+/-1.2; placebo, 11.2+/-1.8 (P=0.02). There was no evidence of ICH in any of the animals.
Both oral EGb and LA therapies produced significant reductions in stroke infarct volume. However, for EGb this beneficial effect appears to be dose related, with higher doses potentially increasing the risk of ICH.
An experimental design procedure was used to investigate the effects of some operating parameters on the supercritical fluid extraction of carotenoids beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin from Spirulina Pacifica algae, a carotenoid-rich dietary product. Variables tested were temperature and pressure of the supercritical fluid, dynamic extraction time and percentage of ethanol added as the modifier. Each variable was tested at three levels; 31 experiments were performed in random order. Analyses of the extracts were performed by high-performance liquid chromatography with UV-Vis photodiode array detection. Analytical responses (chromatographic peak areas) were processed by using a stepwise multiple regression analysis, in order to find polynomial functions describing the relationships between variables and responses. For all the analytes the experimental conditions providing the highest extraction yield inside the experimental domain considered were found. Supercritical fluid extraction results obtained in these conditions were compared with those obtained by performing solvent extraction in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the supercritical fluid extraction procedure.
Lead (100 ppm) was given in doubly deionised water for 30 days to one group of rats. The other groups received lead along with exogenous antioxidants like vitamin E (50 IU/kg), vitamin C (800 mg/kg) or Spirulina (1500 mg/kg) in food for a similar period. Levels of lipid peroxidation products such as malondialdehyde, conjugated diene and hydroperoxide were measured in liver, lung and kidney of treated rats. In lead treated animals there was a significant increase in the levels of these lipid peroxidative products. Administration of exogenous antioxidants in the lead treated animals reduced the levels of malondialdehyde, conjugated diene and hydroperoxide. It indicated that vitamin E, vitamin C and Spirulina had significant (P < 0.001) antioxidant activity thereby protecting the animals from lead induced toxicity.
Peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) is known to inactivate important cellular targets and also mediate oxidative damage in DNA. The present study has demonstrated that phycocyanin, a biliprotein from spirulina platensis and its chromophore, phycocyanobilin (PCB), efficiently scavenge ONOO(-), a potent physiological inorganic toxin. Scavenging of ONOO(-) by phycocyanin and PCB was established by studying their interaction with ONOO(-) and quantified by using competition kinetics of pyrogallol red bleaching assay. The relative antioxidant ratio and IC(50) value clearly indicate that phycocyanin is a more efficient ONOO(-) scavenger than PCB. The present study has also shown that PCB significantly inhibits the ONOO(-)-mediated single-strand breaks in supercoiled plasmid DNA in a dose-dependent manner with an IC(50) value of 2.9 +/- 0.6 microM. These results suggest that phycocyanin, has the ability to inhibit the ONOO(-)-mediated deleterious biological effects and hence has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent.
Cerebral ischemia resulting from a disruption of blood flow to the brain initiates a cascade of events that causes neuron death and leads to neurologic dysfunction. Reactive oxygen species are thought, at least in part, to mediate this disease process. The authors recently cloned and characterized an antioxidant protein, SAG (sensitive to apoptosis gene), that is redox inducible and protects cells from apoptosis induced by redox agents in a number of in vitro cell model systems. This study reports a neuroprotective role of SAG in ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury in an in vivo mouse model. SAG was expressed at a low level in brain tissue and was inducible after middle cerebral artery occlusion with peak expression at 6 to 12 hours. At the cellular level, SAG was mainly expressed in the cytoplasm of neurons and astrocytes, revealed by double immunofluorescence. An injection of recombinant adenoviral vector carrying human SAG into mouse brain produced an overexpression of SAG protein in the injected areas. Transduction of AdCMVSAG (wild-type), but not AdCMVmSAG (mutant), nor the AdCMVlacZ control, protected brain cells from ischemic brain injury, as evidenced by significant reduction of the infarct areas where SAG was highly expressed. The result suggests a rather specific protective role of SAG in the current in vivo model. Mechanistically, SAG overexpression decreased reactive oxygen species production and reduced the number of apoptotic cells in the ischemic areas. Thus, antioxidant SAG appears to protect against reactive oxygen species-induced brain damage in mice. Identification of SAG as a neuroprotective molecule could lead to potential stroke therapies.
The dietary administration of 5% Spirulina maxima (SM) during four weeks to diabetic mice, starting one week after a single dose of alloxan, 250 mg/Kg body weight, prevented fatty liver production in male and female animals. The main action of SM was on triacylglycerol levels in serum and liver. There was also a moderate hypoglycemia in male mice. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances also decreased in serum and liver after SM administration. There was also a decrease in the percentage of HDL in diabetic mice that was reverted by the SM administration. The sum of LDL + VLDL percentages was also partially normalized in diabetic animals by the SM administration. An additional observation was the lower incidence of adherences between the liver and the intestine loops in the diabetic mice treated with SM compared with diabetic mice without SM. Male and female mice showed differences to diabetes susceptibility and response to SM, the female being more resistant to diabetes induction by alloxan and more responsive to the beneficial effects of SM. It is worth future work of SM on humans looking for better quality of life and longer survival of diabetic patients.
In previous studies we have elucidated the presence of powerful, natural antioxidants (NAO) in water extracts of spinach leaves and demonstrated their biological activity in both in vitro and in vivo systems. In the present study, the chemical identity of several of these antioxidant components is presented. Spinach leaves were extracted with water and the 20,000 g supernatant which contained the antioxidant activity was extracted with a water:acetone (1:9) solution. The 20,000 g supernatant obtained was further purified on reverse phase HPLC using C-8 semi-preparative column. Elution with 0.1% TFA resulted in five hydrophilic peaks. Elution with acetonitrile in TFA resulted in seven additional hydrophobic peaks. All the peaks were detected at 250 nm. All the fractions obtained showed antioxidant activity when tested using three different assays. Based on 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy four of the hydrophobic fractions were identified as glucuronic acid derivatives of flavonoids and three additional fractions as trans and cis isomers of p-coumaric acid and others as meso-tartarate derivatives of p-coumaric acid. The present study demonstrates for the first time the presence of both flavonoids and p-coumaric acid derivatives as antioxidant components of the aqueous extract of spinach leaves.
Bone morphogenetic protein-6 (BMP6) and its receptors are expressed in adult and fetal brain. Receptors for BMP6 are upregulated in adult brain after injury, leading to the suggestion that BMP6 is involved in the physiological response to neuronal injury. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was a neuroprotective effect of BMP6 in vivo and in vitro.
Lactate dehydrogenase and microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP-2) activities were used to determine the protective effect of BMP6 against H(2)O(2) in primary cortical cultures. The neuroprotective effects of BMP6 were also studied in chloral hydrate-anesthetized rats. BMP6 or vehicle was injected into right cerebral cortex before transient right middle cerebral artery (MCA) ligation. Animals were killed for triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride staining, caspase-3 immunoreactivity and enzymatic assays, and TUNEL assay. A subgroup of animals were used for locomotor behavioral assays.
Application of H(2)O(2) increased lactate dehydrogenase activity and decreased the density of MAP-2(+) neurons in culture. Both responses were attenuated by BMP6 pretreatment. Complementary in vivo studies showed that pretreatment with BMP6 increased motor performance and generated less cerebral infarction induced by MCA ligation/reperfusion in rats. Pretreatment with BMP6 did not alter cerebral blood flow or physiological parameters. There was decreased ischemia-induced caspase-3 immunoreactivity, caspase-3 enzymatic activity, and density of TUNEL-positive cells in ischemic cortex in BMP6-treated animals.
BMP6 reduces ischemia/reperfusion injury, perhaps by attenuating molecular events underlying apoptosis.
Spirulina fusiformis was tested for its possible in vivo protective effects against cyclophosphamide (CP) and mitomycin-C (MMC) induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress in mice. Pre-treatment with S. fusiformis (250, 500 and 1000 mg kg(-1), p.o., daily for 5 days) significantly reduced the chromosomal damage and lipid peroxidation with concomitant changes in antioxidants and detoxification systems. All the three tested doses were effective in exerting a protective effect against CP and MMC.
Cytochrome b(6)f complex with stoichiometrically bound beta-carotene molecule was purified from spinach chloroplasts. The configuration of this beta-carotene was studied by reversed-phase HPLC and resonance Raman spectroscopy. Both the absorption spectrum of this beta-carotene in dissociated state and the Raman spectrum in native state can be unambiguously assigned to a 9-cis configuration. This finding is in contrast to the predominantly all-trans isomers commonly found in membranes and protein-pigment complexes of chloroplasts, suggesting that the 9-cis-beta-carotene is an authentic component and may have a unique structural and functional role in cytochrome b(6)f complex.
Oxidative stress is an important element in the etiology of ischemic stroke. Lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton) have a high antioxidant capacity and thus we determined whether consumption of lowbush blueberries would protect neurons from stroke-induced damage. Rats were fed AIN-93G diets containing 0 or 14.3% blueberries (g fresh weight/100 g feed) for 6 weeks. Stroke was then simulated by ligation of the left common carotid artery (ischemia), followed by hypoxia. One week later, plasma and urine were collected, and neuronal damage in the hippocampus was determined histologically. In control rats, hypoxia-ischemia resulted in 40 +/- 2% loss of neurons in the hippocampus of the left cerebral hemisphere, as compared to the right hemisphere. Rats on blueberry-supplemented diets lost only 17 +/- 2% of neurons in the ischemic hippocampus. Neuroprotection was observed in the CA1 and CA2 regions, but not CA3 region, of the hippocampus. The blueberry diet had no detectable effects on the plasma or urine oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) or plasma lipids. We conclude that consumption of lowbush blueberries by rats confers protection to the brain against damage from ischemia, suggesting that inclusion of blueberries in the diet may improve ischemic stroke outcomes.
Neuroprotective effects of diadenosine teraphosphate in animal models of stroke and Parkinson's disease
- Y Wang
- C F Chang
- M Morales
- Y H Chiang
- T P Su
- L I Tsao
- C Thiemermann
Wang, Y., Chang, C.F., Morales, M., Chiang, Y.H., Su, T.P., Tsao, L.I., Thiemermann, C., 2003. Neuroprotective effects of diadenosine teraphosphate in animal models of stroke and Parkinson's disease. J. Neurosci. 23, 7958 – 7965.
A model of focal ischemic stroke in the rat: reproducible extensive cortical infarction
- Chen
Effect of brain edema on infarct volume in a focal cerebral ischemia model in rats
- Lin
Intake of flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and risk of stroke in male smokers
- Hirvonen
Neuroprotective effects of diadenosine teraphosphate in animal models of stroke and Parkinson's disease
- Wang