Health and Corona News - 10.25.20-11.1.20

Ginkgo compound reduces hepatic lipid accumulation in high fat diet induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine (China), October 26, 2020

According to news reporting from Taizhou, People’s Republic of China, research stated, “Ginkgolide B (GB), a main constituent of Ginkgo biloba extracts, reduces hepatic lipid accumulation and ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese mice, but the potential mechanism is unclear. Here we investigated the attenuated effects of GB on the disorder of lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and iron deposition in NAFLD and its potential mechanism associated with ferroptosis.”

The news correspondents obtained a quote from the research from the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, “Our preliminary research focused on high fat diet (HFD)-induced ApoEmice gavaged with GB (20 and 30 mg kg•d, approximately equal to the human dose of 2 and 3 mg kg•d, respectively) and palmitic acid and oleic acid (PA/OA)-induced HepG2 cells treated with GB (4, 8, 16 mg/mL), respectively. Hepatic injury was assessed via biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations. In order to examine the mechanism of GB on ferroptosis-regulated pathway, we analyzed the expression levels of ferroptosis-related proteins, including nuclear factor erythroid 2 (Nrf2), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), transferrin receptor-1 (TFR1) and ferritin heavy chain-1 (FTH1) in vivo and vitro experiments by Western blotting. In order to further verify the correlation pathway of ferroptosis, after Nrf2 short hairpin RNA interference, we analyzed the effects of GB on Nrf2 pathway. Both HFD-fed mice and PA/OA-induced HepG2 cells displayed ferroptosis-based panel of biomarkers such as iron overload with the up-regulation of TFR1 and the down-regulation of FTH1, lipid peroxidation and inhibition of Nrf2 activity, which further induced GPX4 and HO-1 levels. Remarkably, after Nrf2 interference, GB treatment significantly increased Nrf2 expression, indicating that GB exerted anti-ferroptosis effects by activation of Nrf2 pathway.”

According to the news reporters, the research concluded: “Our results are preliminarily illustrated that GB treatment has a specific effect on lipid accumulation and oxidative stress caused ferroptosis in NAFLD, possibly through Nrf2 signaling pathway.”

This research has been peer-reviewed.

High vitamin A, E, and D intake linked to fewer respiratory complaints in adults

Imperial College London, October 29, 2020

High vitamin A, E, and D intake may be linked to fewer respiratory complaints in adults, suggests an analysis of nationally representative long term survey data, published online in the journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.

The findings warrant further study among different ethnic groups and geographies in view of the current coronavirus pandemic, suggest the researchers.

Nutrition has a key role in cutting the risk of several infections, although exactly how it boosts immunity is complex and not fully understood. Vitamins A, E, C and D have already been deemed to aid the normal functioning of the immune system in the European Union, and the American Nutrition Association suggests these vitamins may also help stave off respiratory infections.

The researchers wanted to explore whether the intake of these vitamins from both diet and supplements might be linked to the prevalence of respiratory complaints in a nationally representative sample of UK adults.

They drew on information provided by 6115 adult participants in the 2008-2016 National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme (NDNS RP) who had completed three or more days of diet diaries. The NDNS RP is a rolling survey that collects information annually on all food and drink consumed from around 1000 randomly selected people living in private households across the UK.

Respiratory complaints were reported by the participants and had not been diagnosed by a clinician. They were broadly defined, and included both infectious and non-infectious conditions, such as colds, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma.

The researchers looked at dietary intake only (continuous exposure) and that from diet and supplements (binary exposure), accounting for potentially influential factors, such as age, sex, weight (BMI), smoking, household income and total energy intake.

In all, there were 33 cases of respiratory complaints. These respondents were generally older and less likely to say they regularly took vitamins A, E, C or D supplements.

There was no obvious association between BMI and vitamin intake, or between BMI and respiratory complaints. And it wasn’t possible to determine any associations with vitamin C supplements as none of the adults with respiratory complaints said they took them.

But vitamin A and E intake from both diet and supplements was associated with a lower prevalence of respiratory complaints in UK adults. Major dietary sources of vitamin A include liver, whole milk, and cheese, as well as carrots, dark green leafy vegetables, and orange-coloured fruits. Major dietary sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.

And vitamin D intake from supplements, but not from diet, was associated with fewer respiratory complaints, prompting the researchers to suggest that the findings add to the current scientific debate on the value of vitamin D supplementation.

“It is estimated that around a fifth of the general population in the UK have low vitamin D, and over 30% of older adults aged 65 years and above do not achieve the recommended nutrient intake,” they write.

“Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that supplementation is critical to ensuring adequate vitamin D status is maintained and potentially indicate that intake of vitamin D from diet alone cannot help maintain adequate vitamin D status.”

This is an observational study, and as such, can’t establish cause, added to which the number of respiratory complaints was small, meaning that no inferences can be made in respect of the coronavirus pandemic, caution the researchers.

“Further research is required to assess the implications of the current study in the context of the current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic using data from longitudinal cohorts,” they suggest.

“Our study also highlights the need for further data collection on nutrition and respiratory disorders to cover wider geographical areas and high-risk groups, including a focus on other ethnicities,” they add.

Shane McAuliffe, Science Communications Lead for the NNEdPro Nutrition & COVID-19 Taskforce, said: “While acknowledging the limitations of this data, it does add further to a growing body of interest and evidence for the role of vitamin D in respiratory health.

“Given our knowledge of the extent of vitamin D deficiency in the population, balanced with the low cost and low risk of adverse events, it seems sensible to provide supplementation of this key vitamin, particularly to those most likely to be deficient.”

Professor Sumantra Ray, Executive Director of the NNEdPro Global Centre for Nutrition & Health in Cambridge and Visiting Professor of Public Health at Imperial College London, added: ‘Nationally representative data continue to remind us that micronutrient deficiencies are far from a thing of the past, even in higher income nations like the UK, and this trend is mirrored by comparable global data sources from lesser resourced countries to those with advanced health systems.

“Despite this, micronutrient deficiencies are often overlooked as a key contributor to the burden of malnutrition and poor health, presenting an additional layer of challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

High-sugar diet can damage the gut, intensifying risk for colitis

University of Texas Medical Center, Oct. 28, 2020

Mice fed diets high in sugar developed worse colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and researchers examining their large intestines found more of the bacteria that can damage the gut’s protective mucus layer.

“Colitis is a major public health problem in the U.S. and in other Western countries,” says Hasan Zaki, Ph.D., who led the study that appears in today’s Science Translational Medicine. “This is very important from a public health point of view.”

Colitis can cause persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding. The number of American adults suffering from IBD (which includes Crohn’s disease) jumped from 2 million in 1999 to 3 million in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, colitis is beginning to show up in children, who historically did not suffer from it, says Zaki, a UT Southwestern assistant professor of pathology.

Because of the disease’s much higher prevalence in Western countries, researchers have looked to the Western-style diet – high in fat, sugar, and animal protein – as a possible risk factor, says Zaki. While high-fat diets have been found to trigger IBD, the role of sugar has been more controversial, he says.

This new study points to sugar – particularly the glucose found in high fructose corn syrup developed by the food industry in the 1960s and then increasingly used to sweeten soft drinks and other foods – as a prime suspect. “The incidence of IBD has also increased in Western countries, particularly among children, over this same period,” according to the study.

UT Southwestern researchers fed mice a solution of water with a 10 percent concentration of various dietary sugars – glucose, fructose, and sucrose – for seven days. They found that mice that were either genetically predisposed to develop colitis, or those given a chemical that induces colitis, developed more severe symptoms if they were first given sugar.

The researchers then used gene-sequencing techniques to identify the types and prevalence of bacteria found in the large intestines of mice before and after receiving their sugar regimen. After being given sugar treatments for seven days, those fed sucrose, fructose, and – especially – glucose showed significant changes in the microbial population inside the gut, according to the study.

Bacteria known to produce mucus-degrading enzymes, such as Akkermansia, were found in greater numbers, while some other types of bugs considered good bacteria and commonly found in the gut, such as Lactobacillus, became less abundant.

The researchers saw evidence of a thinning of the mucus layer that protects the lining of the large intestine as well as signs of infection by other bacteria. “The mucus layer protects intestinal mucosal tissue from infiltration of gut microbiota,” the study explains. “Higher abundance of mucus-degrading bacteria, including Akkermansia muciniphila and Bacteroides fragilis, in glucose-treated mice is, therefore, a potential risk for the intestinal mucus barrier.

“Due to the erosion of the mucus layer, gut bacteria were in close proximity with the epithelial layer of the large intestine in glucose-treated mice,” the study continues. “Breaching of the epithelial barrier is the key initiating event of intestinal inflammation.”

Although glucose had the greatest effect, “all three simple sugars profoundly altered the composition of gut microbiota,” the study reports. Previous studies have shown that gut microbiota of both humans and mice can change rapidly with a change in diet. “Our study clearly shows that you really have to mind your food,” says Zaki.

After finding changes in the gut microbiota in sugar-fed mice, the researchers fed feces from the sugar-treated mice to other mice. Those mice developed worse colitis, suggesting that glucose-induced susceptibility to colitis can be transmitted along with the destructive intestinal microbiota from affected animals.

Zaki says he now plans to study whether and how high sugar intake affects the development of other inflammatory diseases such as obesity, fatty liver disease, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

How laughter improves health

University of Maryland Medical Center, October 26 2020

“For seniors, laughter may be the best medicine to improve quality of life and health,” said Emily Perez, SLP and director of rehabilitation for Spring Lake Rehab Center in Winter Haven.

What is laughter? An online medical dictionary – freedictionary.com – defines laughter as, “A series of inarticulate sounds produced as an expression of emotion, usually happiness or mirth.

Because we laugh an average of 17 times per day, you’d think we are immune to bad health. Turns out, those who laugh 40 percent less than the average, have cardiovascular disease, reports Dr. Michael Miller, director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

It’s been shown that the areas of brain that recognize humor are not as active in those with heart disease. And there are many areas of the brain that engage when humor comes into play.

The frontal lobe responsible for emotional outlet, the left side interprets words, the right side determines what makes a joke funny, and the brain’s limbic system is responsible for basic reactions like surprise, fear and hunger. Finally, the motor areas of the brain become active and they’re responsible for the chuckle, or the act of laughter.

When we laugh, it affects us systemically. According to Perez, here are a just six benefits of laughter:

1. Improved immune system – Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect the body by bringing more stress into the system and decreasing immunity; whereas, positive thoughts actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses

2. Inhibits pain – A study published by Dr. Robin Dunbar, a professor at the University of Oxford, revealed that laughter had a significant positive effect on pain thresholds because it stimulated the release of endorphins that interacted with brain receptors to reduce the perception of pain. He said, “The simple muscular exertions involved in producing the familiar ha, ha, ha, he said, trigger an increase in endorphins, the brain chemicals known for their feel-good effect,” in the New York Times.

3. Cardiovascular health – Laughter dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, prevents clot formation and reduces inflammation, reported Dr. Michael Miller, the director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

“The ability to laugh – either naturally or as learned behavior may have important implications in societies such as the U.S. where heart disease remains the number one killer. We know that exercising, not smoking and eating foods low in saturated fat will reduce the risk of heart disease. Perhaps regular, hearty laughter should be added to the list,” said Miller in a university newsletter.

4. Memory retention – A study from Loma Linda University said laughter is beneficial for elderly patients’ ability to recall. Laughter reduces stress, say the researchers, and as one’s stress is lowered, memory improves. This has tremendous implications for older adults who may be experiencing age-associated memory deficiencies, as medical practitioners now can offer enjoyable and beneficial humor therapies for these deficiencies.

5. Improved perspective – Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations as well as decrease feelings of depression or anxiety by improving feelings of overall happiness.

6. Social connection – Certainly, laughter unites people. Many studies show that social support improves mental and physical health. Indeed, the presumed health benefits of laughter may be unplanned consequences of its primary goal, which is bringing people together.

With so many benefits, the recommendations for future well-being may one day be – exercise, eat right and laugh a few times a day. While we wait for more definitive research, it can’t hurt to laugh and joke. So, a guy walks into a bar …

Fucoidan found in brown seaweed supports healthy level of inflammation

Medical University-Plovdiv(Bulgaria), October 23, 2020

According to news reporting originating from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, research stated, “Inflammation is the initial response of the immune system to potentially harmful stimuli (e.g., injury, stress, and infections). The process involves activation of macrophages and neutrophils, which produce mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.”

Our news editors obtained a quote from the research from Medical University-Plovdiv: “The pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1b (IL-1b), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) are considered as biomarkers of inflammation. Even though it occurs as a physiological defense mechanism, its involvement in the pathogenesis of various diseases is reported. Rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular diseases are only a part of the diseases, in which pathogenesis the chronic inflammation is involved. Fucoidans are complex polysaccharides from brown seaweeds and some marine invertebrates, composed mainly of * * L* * -fucose and sulfate ester groups and minor amounts of neutral monosaccharides and uronic acids. Algae-derived fucoidans are studied intensively during the last years regarding their multiple biological activities and possible therapeutic potential. However, the source, species, molecular weight, composition, and structure of the polysaccharides, as well as the route of administration of fucoidans, could be crucial for their effects. Fucoidan is reported to act on different stages of the inflammatory process: (i) blocking of lymphocyte adhesion and invasion, (ii) inhibition of multiple enzymes, and (iii) induction of apoptosis.”

According to the news editors, the research concluded: “In this review, we focused on the immunemodulating and anti-inflammatory effects of fucoidans derived from macroalgae and the models used for their evaluation. Additional insights on the molecular structure of the compound are included.”

How Tart Cherry Juice Increases The Quality Of Your Sleep Time

University of Michigan, October 30, 2020

Along with providing the fruit’s bright red color, the antioxidant compounds in tart cherries — called anthocyanins — have been specifically linked to high antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation, at levels comparable to some well-known pain medications. Tart cherry juice was found to help extend sleep time by 84 minutes among study participants according to a new pilot study published in American Journal of Therapeutics.

Michigan researchers had previously shown that a cherry-enriched diet not only reduced overall body inflammation, but also reduced inflammation at key sites (belly fat, heart) known to affect heart disease risk in the obese. “Chronic inflammation is a whole body condition that can affect overall health, especially when it comes to the heart,” said Mitch Seymour, PhD, at the University of Michigan. However, reducing inflammation is not the only benefit. The evidence is now overwhelming that cherry-enriched diets also improve sleep.

Natural remedies for sleep disturbances range from those that are well-researched and backed by a scientific results to the old wives tales your family has handed down from generation to generation. Sometimes, these two ends of the spectrum meet and science is able to prove what those old wives have known all along, just because a remedy has been handed down doesn’t mean it isn’t true.

Cherry juice drinkers report less napping time during the day (compared to their normal sleeping habits) and against placebo group napping times. In 2001, Burkhardt et al. even observed that the Montmorency variety, in particular, contains about six times more melatonin than the Balaton variety.

Since melatonin is the hormone that regulates sleep, the team found that people who consumed tart cherry juice concentrate not only slept for longer, but also had improved their quality of sleep.

“Insomnia is quite common among older adults and it can lead to a range of health issues if left untreated,” said lead researcher Jack Losso, professor in the School of Nutrition and Food Sciences at Louisiana State University Agricultural Center in Baton Rouge who has conducted previous studies on tart cherry juice and sleep. “However, many people are hesitant to resort to medications to help them sleep. That’s why natural sleep remedies are increasingly of interest and in demand.”

Research Methodology

Eight healthy male and female subjects 50 years or older with chronic insomnia and a usual bedtime between 9 p.m. and midnight participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Insomnia was defined as trouble sleeping on average three nights per week, with an Insomnia Severity Index score greater or equal to 10 and meeting the International Classification of Sleep Disorders-2 criteria for insomnia.

In advance of screening, potential subjects fasted for 10 hours, excluding water, before a blood test was administered and questionnaires were completed, including the Insomnia Severity Index.

Participants who passed the screening were randomly assigned to either a Montmorency tart cherry juice group or a placebo control group. Those in the Montmorency tart cherry juice group consumed about 8 ounces (240 mL) of Montmorency tart cherry juice containing a measured level of procyanidin in the morning and at night, 1-2 hours before bedtime, for 14 days. Following the same schedule, participants in the placebo group consumed a drink designed to look and taste like cherry juice.

Procyanidins and anthocyanins are the major compounds, or polyphenols, in Montmorency tart cherries. The placebo drink, made of distilled water, fructose, dextrose and lemon powder, did not contain these polyphenols found in the tart cherry juice.

After two weeks of consuming Montmorency tart cherry juice or the placebo drink, subjects had an overnight polysomnographic sleep study and blood was drawn to measure the kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio, which identifies tryptophan degradation and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to evaluate inflammation. On waking after the sleep study, five validated questionnaires previously conducted with participants were repeated and subjects were questioned about any adverse events. After a two-week washout period, the subjects were crossed over to the tart cherry juice or placebo group, and the two-week testing period was repeated.

Given there are no current polysomnographic studies of Montmorency tart cherry juice on which to base a power analysis, the clinical trial was designed as a pilot study to determine power for a larger, adequately powered study that would give statistically significant differences. Dr. Losso collaborated with Dr. Frank Greenway, professor at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a research campus of the Louisiana State University, to perform the clinical trial with polysomnography.

Results

When compared to a placebo, Montmorency tart cherry juice was found to significantly extend sleep time of the senior insomniacs by 84 minutes. Sleep efficiency increased on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, but the other questionnaires showed no significant differences. Despite the small size of the pilot study, researchers demonstrated reduced plasma levels of kynurenine with increased tryptophan levels. In this study, in vitro results showed that the tart cherry juice procyanidin B-2 inhibited serum indoleanmine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), which was identified as part of the mechanism for tart cherry juice improving sleep efficiency, and in vivo results showed the inhibition of PGE2, which is a biomarker of inflammation. While not conclusive, such outcomes should be used as background for forming hypotheses for the conduct of human clinical trials.

The study’s use of a polysomnography, considered the “gold-standard” method for evaluating sleep pathology, provided a more accurate assessment of sleep than methods administered in similar studies, allowing for the selection of subjects with insomnia versus other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea. Because three of the original eleven identified subjects in this study meeting the Pigeon2 screening criteria had sleep apnea rather than insomnia, being able to identify and eliminate subjects suffering from sleep apnea was important for achieving accurate results.

This data adds to the growing body of previous research showing similar results pointing to the potential effects of Montmorency tart cherry juice on sleep quantity and quality. While additional research is needed, the researchers at Louisiana State University are encouraged by the significant increase in sleep time among the senior insomniacs who participated in this study.

Montmorency tart cherries are the most common variety of tart cherries grown in the U.S., and are available year-round in dried, frozen, canned, juice and concentrated forms.

Belly Fat Really Is A Killer: Here’s How It Can Increase Your Cancer Risk

Michigan State University October 24, 2020

It’s no secret that obesity is harmful to health, and recent studies have debunked the myth that one can be “fat but fit.”

Also well-established is the link between obesity and increased cancer risk, but how it actually causes cancer has yet to be fully explained.

A recent study offers more details on the association. Researchers at Michigan State University found that a certain protein released from fat in the body can cause a non-cancerous cell to turn into a cancerous one.

The research also found that a lower layer of abdominal fat, when compared to fat just under the skin, is the more likely culprit, releasing even more of this protein and encouraging tumor growth.

It is estimated that at least one third of the population is obese. Obesity has been linked to several types of cancers including breast, colon, prostate, uterine, and kidney.

But Jamie Bernard, the study’s lead author and an assistant professor in pharmacology and toxicology, said that just being overweight isn’t necessarily the best way to assess risk:

“Our study suggests that body mass index, or BMI, may not be the best indicator. It’s abdominal obesity, and even more specifically, levels of a protein called fibroblast growth factor-2 that may be a better indicator of the risk of cells becoming cancerous.”

There are two layers of belly fat. The top layer, known as subcutaneous fat, lies right under the skin. The layer under that, called visceral fat, is the one she found to be more harmful.

In the article Do You Need a Reason to Stop Drinking Soda? Here it Is, I explained what visceral fat is and why it is so dangerous:

Visceral fat – also known as “deep fat” – wraps around your internal organs, including your liver, pancreas, kidneys, and intestines. It is much more dangerous than subcutaneous fat (the fat that you can see – the “inch you can pinch”). That’s because visceral fat (which gets its name from viscera, which refers to the internal organs in the abdomen) affects how our hormones function and is thought to play a larger role in insulin resistance – which may increase Type 2 diabetes and heart disease risk.

Excess visceral fat is also linked to an increased risk of developing cancer, stroke, dementia, depression, arthritis, obesity, sexual dysfunction, and sleep disorders.

You don’t have to be visibly overweight to be at risk. Even relatively thin people can have too much visceral fat, which is why it is often referred to as “hidden” belly fat.

Back to the study.

Here’s how Bernard and her team conducted their research:

Bernard and her co-author Debrup Chakraborty, a postdoctoral student in her lab, studied mice that were fed a high-fat diet and discovered that this higher-risk layer of fat produced larger amounts of the fibroblast growth factor-2, or FGF2, protein when compared to the subcutaneous fat. They found that FGF2 stimulated certain cells that were already vulnerable to the protein and caused them to grow into tumors.

She also collected visceral fat tissue from women undergoing hysterectomies and found that when the fat secretions had more of the FGF2 protein, more of the cells formed cancerous tumors when transferred into mice. (source)

What does this mean?

Bernard explains,

“This would indicate that fat from both mice and humans can make a non-tumorigenic cell malignantly transform into a tumorigenic cell.”

There are several other factors released from fat, Bernard said, including the hormone estrogen, that could influence cancer risk, but many of those studies have only been able to show an association and not a direct cause of cancer. She added that genetics also play a role.

“There’s always an element of chance in whether a person will get cancer or not. But by making smarter choices when it comes to diet and exercise and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, people can always help skew the odds in their favor.”

The study is published in the journal Oncogene and was funded by the National Institutes of Health.

A study has demonstrated that omega-3 rich foods improve post-heart attack prognosis

Regularly consuming omega-3, from both animal and vegetable origins, strengthens the heart’s membranes thereby helping to reduce the risk of hospital readmission and mortality after a heart attack

Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (Spain), October 27 ,2020

A team of researchers from the Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital and Research Institute (IGTP) and the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM) has shown that regularly consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, from both animal and vegetable origins, strengthens the heart’s membranes and helps improve the prognosis in the event of a myocardial infarction.

To arrive at these conclusions, they used data from 950 patients. The omega-3 levels in the blood of these individuals were determined when they were admitted to hospital to be treated for the heart attack. This measurement indicates, very accurately, how much of these fats the patients had eaten in the weeks prior to the sampling, in other words, before the heart attack. The patients were monitored for three years after being discharged, and the researchers observed that having high levels of omega-3 in the blood at the time of the infarction, which had been consumed in the weeks leading up to the heart attack, was associated with a lower risk of complications. The results of the study have just been published in the prestigious Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish. When we eat oily fish on a regular basis, EPA is incorporated into the phospholipids in the membranes of the cardiomyocytes, protecting them from a wide variety of heart stressors. This enrichment of the myocardial membranes limits the damage caused in the event of a heart attack.

The major novelty of this study is that it also focused on another omega-3 fatty acid, of vegetable origin, known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This fat, which is found in walnuts as well as soybeans and their derivatives, is far less well studied than marine omega-3s. The researchers observed that EPA and ALA do not compete, but are complementary to one another. While high levels of EPA are associated with a lower risk of hospital readmission from cardiovascular causes, higher levels of ALA are associated with a reduced risk of death.

Antoni Bayés, clinical director of Cardiology at Germans Trias, concludes: “Incorporating marine and vegetable omega-3s into the diet of patients at risk of cardiovascular disease is an integrative strategy for improving both their quality of life and prognosis if they suffer a heart attack.”

Aleix Sala, a researcher at IMIM-Hospital del Mar and responsible for the blood testing, states: “The article is important because it highlights the complementary (and non-competitive) effects of the two types of omega-3.”

Study finds grape seed extract supplementation along with a restricted calorie diet improves cardiovascular risk factors in obese or overweight adults

Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (Iran). October 23, 2020

According to news reporting from Tehran, Iran, research stated, “Grape seed extract (GSE) is a flavonoid-rich supplement, recently discussed as a potential moderator of inflammation and obesity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of GSE supplementation along with a restricted-calorie diet (RCD), on changes in blood lipid profile, visceral adiposity index (VAI), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP).”

The news correspondents obtained a quote from the research from the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, “We designed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Forty obese or overweight individuals (25 body mass index <40 kg/m ) were randomly assigned to receive GSE (300 mg/day) or placebo, plus RCD, for 12 weeks. We studied the anthropometric measures, biochemical biomarkers and dietary intake within the study timelines. Levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and HDL-C/low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) significantly increased in the GSE group as compared with the placebo group at week 12 (p=.03 and .008, respectively, adjusted for age, sex, energy and saturated fatty acid intake). We also observed a significant reduction in LDL-C following GSE supplementation in comparison to placebo (adjusted for age, sex and energy intake, p=.04). VAI, AIP, total cholesterol and triglyceride significantly decreased in the GSE group compared with the baseline (p=.04, .02, .01, and .02, respectively).”

According to the news reporters, the research concluded: “GSE supplementation may have a modulatory role in improving blood lipid profile in obese or overweight individuals, when accompanied by RCD.”

This research has been peer-reviewed.

Extra virgin olive oil contains more polyphenols than other varieties

Published in Tulsa World, October 27, 2020

Let’s look at how the various types of olive oil are alike. Calorie content is similar in all olive oils. The composition of an olive’s fatty acids is approximately 77% monounsaturated, 9% polyunsaturated and 14% saturated. Extra-virgin olive oil will contain a higher concentration of phytochemicals than oils described as “light.”

Oils tend to be present as triglycerides: three fatty acids bound to glycerol. Fatty acids can begin to split off as olives age; measurements of their free-acidity are used as a gauge of olive quality. Premium olive oils often declare a maximum level of free-acidity on their labels.

The various grades of olive oil are distinguished by the order in which they emerge from specialized presses. The first pressing of the fruit provides the extra-virgin olive oil: the darkest, most flavorful and highest in quality. It also has the lowest free-acid level.

Next out is the virgin olive oil. It has less color but still contains some of the olive’s fruitiness. The remaining oil is the standard, or “pure” olive oil, which has even less olive flavor. Some companies make a “light” (or “lite”) olive oil, which has little, if any, olive flavor but is still quite functional. Many companies blend their oils to achieve a more standardized flavor. In Europe, you can even find pomace oil: a solvent extraction of the olive mash leftovers.

Understanding the idea of health benefits between the extra-virgin and the lighter types becomes apparent when you consider that the olive is the olive tree’s fruit. The oil is there to nurture the developing seed until it can begin to grow on its own. Rancid oil is less able to help the seed grow, and the olive has evolved to produce protective components. In the olive, we find some vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols. These compounds help maintain the olive’s vitality while providing the distinct flavor characteristics detectable in premium oils.

Oil producers from around the Mediterranean, in addition to those in California, speak with understandable pride about the healthful attributes of their olive oil. They often tout that only the extra-virgin olive oil has the right stuff. Once you understand that it is the extra-virgin oil that contains the bulk of the beneficial phytochemicals, you can better appreciate the logic of their message.

Expect differences between, and within, brands of oils. Quality varies with the olive variety, the age of the tree, the geographical area, the method of cultivation, the weather and the length of the growing season. Some producers date the vintage of their oils, while others blend to achieve a consistent taste for their brand.

We find the same types of differences with fruits and vegetables, as well as with products such as wine.

While tasting olive oils around the world, I noticed differences in pungency, buttery mouthfeel and peppery aftertaste – each, no doubt, due to specific chemical compounds. Olives picked earlier in the harvest might have higher levels of certain constituents than those left until the end of the season.

Suffice it to say that sticking with extra-virgin will ensure that you are getting the best that an olive variety has to offer. When possible, taste several to find the type that meets your particular needs. For more, see b.link/bw-olive.

Strawberry nutrient helps protect elderly from neurodegenerative disease

Salk Institute, October 17, 2020

An increasing amount of evidence is showing that a natural plant compound from strawberries can boost brain health while reducing the risks of neurodegenerative disease associated with aging. Salk Institute scientists have studied the strawberry antioxidant fisetin and found it to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in aging mice.

The results of the Salk Institute scientists’ research is published in the Journals of Gerontology. The work was funded by the Burns Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institutes of Health.

Strawberry compound effective against both genetic and age-related Alzheimer’s disease

The recent study builds on the Salk group’s recent work researching the antioxidant fisetin and confirms the strawberry compound fisetin can assist with preventing age-related mental decline, stroke and (specifically) Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The strawberry compound seems to reduce the inflammation associated with cognitive defects, boost brain health and reduce incidents of neurodegenerative disease.

David Schubert, head of the Salk Institute Cellular Neurobiology Lab, has been studying fisetin for well over 10 years.

Previous research conducted by the lab found the strawberry compound fisetin was highly effective in reducing memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s in mice that had been modified genetically to have the neurodegenerative disease. However, this preliminary research was focused on the genetic form of Alzheimer’s, which only accounts for a tiny percentage of all cases.

Fisetin in strawberries reduces the markers for inflammation and stress associated with neurodegenerative disease

Some of the mice studied were fed a fisetin dose (daily) along with their normal food portion for seven months. The others served as a control group and were not given fisetin. Throughout the seven months, the mice were given various memory/activity tests and specific proteins related to brain functioning, inflammation and stress responses.

After the study period, the differences between these two groups of mice were striking. The mice that did not receive the strawberry compound struggled on all of the cognitive tests. They also showed elevated amounts of inflammation and the markers for stress.

By contrast, the mice treated with fisetin did not show age-related signs of cognitive decline. None of the markers for stress and inflammation were markedly different from when the study began. In addition, the group treated with fisetin showed no signs of toxicity or side effects from the compound – even when it was administered at high doses.

As if we needed another “excuse” to eat more strawberries!

While the researchers concede that mice are not people, there are enough genetic similarities to cause great excitement about the potential of this strawberry compound. A natural means of boosting brain health and reducing the risk of age related neurodegenerative disease is something that most everyone would be interested in.

The Salk group now hopes to partner with another research organization interested in conducting human trials on fisetin. Until then? Eat more strawberries!

Researchers find strong evidence linking artificial sweeteners to asthma

University of Massachusetts, October 25, 2020

Even moderate consumption of fructose and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) from soda, fruit drinks and apple juice corresponds to a higher risk of asthma in adults.

This is the finding of a recent study by independent researcher Luanne DeChristopher and Katherine Tucker from the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell), published in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Their study found that those who consumed even moderate amounts of HFCS–sweetened fruit drinks had a 58 percent higher risk of asthma compared who seldom did so. Meanwhile, moderate consumers of apple juice, a high-fructose 100 percent juice, had a 61 percent higher risk of asthma.

Higher intake of HFCS linked to higher asthma risk

For their study, the duo analyzed longitudinal data from the Offspring Cohort of the Framingham Heart Study. In all, their study included some 2,600 adult participants with a mean age of 47.9 years.

They also used food frequency questionnaires to measure the participants’ intake of non-diet soda, fruit drinks, apple juice and any combination of these beverages that contained HFCS. In addition, they analyzed asthma incidence based on the participants’ self-reports as recorded in the Offspring Cohort.

Their analysis revealed that an increased intake of any combination of HFCS-sweetened drinks was associated with higher asthma risk. They speculated that the association between the two variables could be because of the high fructose to glucose ratios of the drinks, as well as fructose malabsorption in the participants.

In light of these findings, reducing the intake of HFCS-sweetened drinks appears to be an important first step to minimizing asthma risk.

However, the researchers noted that just reducing the consumption of these drinks might be inadequate since even those who consumed only moderate amounts of the HFCS-sweetened drinks also had a higher risk of asthma.

Study suggests that deficiency of vitamin D or selenium may decrease immune defenses against respiratory viral illness

Seoul Clinical Laboratories (South Korea), October 26, 2020

According to news reporting from Yongin, South Korea, research stated, “The relationship between immunity and nutrition is well known and its role in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is also being paid great attention. However, the nutritional status of COVID-19 patients is unknown.”

The news correspondents obtained a quote from the research from Seoul Clinical Laboratories, “Vitamin B1, B6, B12, vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D), folate, selenium, and zinc levels were measured in 50 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Overall, 76% of the patients were vitamin D deficient and 42% were selenium deficient. No significant increase in the incidence of deficiency was found for vitamins B1, B6, and B12, folate, and zinc in patients with COVID-19. The COVID-19 group showed significantly lower vitamin D values than the healthy control group (150 people, matched by age/sex). Severe vitamin D deficiency (based on a cut-off of 10 ng/dl) was found in 24.0% of the patients in the COVID-19 group and 7.3% in the control group. Among 12 patients with respiratory distress, 11 (91.7%) were deficient in at least one nutrient. However, patients without respiratory distress showed a deficiency in 30/38 cases (78.9%; p=0.425). These results suggest that a deficiency of vitamin D or selenium may decrease the immune defenses against COVID-19 and cause progression to severe disease.”

According to the news reporters, the research concluded: “However, more precise and large-scale studies are needed.”

Wrinkled ‘Super Pea’ Could Be Added To Foods To Reduce Diabetes Risk

Imperial College London, October 26, 2020

A type of wrinkled ‘super pea’ may help control blood sugar levels and could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, suggests a new study.

The research, from scientists at Imperial College London, the John Innes Centre, Quadram Institute Bioscience and University of Glasgow, suggests incorporating the peas into foods, in the form of whole pea seeds or flour, may help tackle the global type 2 diabetes epidemic.

The work, published in the journal Nature Food and funded by the BBSRC, focused on a naturally occurring type of pea. Unlike regular (smooth) peas, they contain higher amounts of ‘resistant starch’, which takes longer for the body to break down.

The study reveals that compared to eating smooth peas, wrinkled peas prevented ‘sugar spikes’ – where blood sugar levels rise sharply after a meal. The same effect was seen when consuming flour made from wrinkled peas incorporated in a mixed meal.

According to the researchers, this could be important as frequent, large sugar spikes are thought to increase the risk of diabetes. They add that flour from their ‘super peas’ could potentially be used in commonly consumed processed foods which, if eaten over the long term, could prevent these sugar spikes.

Dr Katerina Petropoulou, first author of the research from the Centre for Translational and Nutrition Food Research at Imperial College London, said: “Despite national campaigns to promote healthy eating, type 2 diabetes diagnosis rates continue to rise. An alternative dietary strategy to maintain normal blood glucose rates among the population is to improve the composition of commonly consumed foods. There is much evidence that diets rich in a type of carbohydrate called resistant starch have a positive impact on controlling blood glucose levels, and hence reduce susceptibility to type 2 diabetes.”

The peas used in the research are similar to the frozen peas you can buy in the supermarket. They are also the same as those used by the famous scientist Gregor Mendel in the 1800s, to show how dominant and recessive genetic traits can be passed on through selective breeding.

However, in these latest experiments, researchers used larger, mature versions of those typically found in the freezer aisle. This is because larger, mature peas contain more so-called ‘resistant starch’. The high amount of resistant starch is due to the way the starch is made in the cell, and the fact that the cells themselves are more resistant to digestion.

Starch is a compound that the body breaks down to release sugar, but resistant starch is broken down more slowly, so that sugar is released more slowly into the blood stream, resulting in a more stable increase rather than in a spike.

In the latest study, the researchers used a type of ‘super pea’ – wrinkled peas with a naturally occurring genetic mutation, or variant, that produces a greater amount of resistant starch, but a lower overall carbohydrate content.

Over a series of experiments, the team gave healthy volunteers a mixed meal including 50 grams of wrinkled peas, and in a series of control experiments gave them regular ‘smooth’ peas. Working with the University of Glasgow, researchers also added a tracer molecule to the peas, so that they could trace how they were absorbed and digested by the human gastrointestinal tract.

They repeated the experiments using flour made from wrinkled peas or control peas. To further investigate the impact of long-term consumption they recruited 25 volunteers and asked them to consume pea hummus and mushy peas (made from wrinkled or control peas) for a period of 4 weeks.

Professor Gary Frost, lead author of the study and head of Imperial’s Centre for Translational and Nutrition Food Research, said: “The ‘super pea’ contains a naturally-occurring variant gene that means they are high in resistant starches. These starches are not completely digested in the upper parts of the digestive tract and are available for fermentation by bacteria in the colon.”

Previous research from the same group has suggested that, as these bacteria ferment the starch, they produce compounds called short chain fatty acids. These compounds in turn help boost the function of cells that produce insulin, which helps control blood sugar.

Further tests using a mimic of the human gut, carried out by researchers at Quadram Institute Bioscience, showed that the way that the peas were prepared and cooked affected how quickly they were digested. Researchers also showed that there were significant benefits to our gut microbiota because of the fermentation process taking place there.

Professor Pete Wilde of the Quadram Institute said: “This study has shown us that by preparing these peas in certain ways we can further reduce blood sugar spikes, opening up new possibilities for making healthier foods using controlled food processing techniques.”

The researchers are now planning further trials involving volunteers with early stage type 2 diabetes. This will also involve a major pea breeding programme with help from industry partners to develop more ‘super peas’ with the resistant starch. They will also explore the genetic background of commonly consumed pulses (beans) to see if similar genetic variation in other crops shows the same positive effects on health.

Professor Claire Domoney of the John Innes Centre in Norfolk said: “This research has emphasized the value of developing the pea lines used in this study, which could be compared meaningfully and involved many years of breeding. It also demonstrates how plant genetics can be used effectively across many disciplines to study the impact of food on human health.”

The study authors point out that it is not only peas which have the resistant starch mutation. Other research is focusing on breeding the mutation into staple crops, such as rice and wheat. With modern genomic tools there is the potential for discovery or generation of the mutation across a range of seed and grain crops – which make up many of the carbohydrate-rich foods we consume.

Professor Domoney added: “Longer term it could become policy to include resistant starch in food. We have precedents for this kind of intervention, such as iron being added to bread to tackle anemia. It could potentially be policy that food should contain a certain amount of resistant starch to tackle type 2 diabetes and other metabolic illnesses.”

Professor Melanie Welham, BBSRC’s Executive Chair, said “By investing in plant research, such as this collaboration between Imperial College, the Quadram Institute and the John Innes Centre, new solutions that help address the health problems affecting many people across the country are being developed. Long term benefits come from long term investments that equip our research base to tackle new and emerging challenges.”

Reduced maternal serum total, free and bioavailable vitamin D levels associated with greater risk of postpartum depression

Jawaharlal Institute of Post-graduate Medical Education and Research (India), October 25, 2020

According to news reporting from Puducherry, India, research stated, “Low vitamin D levels have been implicated in postpartum depressive disorders. However, studies on bioavailable vitamin D levels in postpartum depression are limited.”

The news correspondents obtained a quote from the research from the Jawaharlal Institute of Post-graduate Medical Education and Research, “Our study aimed to assess the serum concentrations of total, free and bioavailable 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels in women with postpartum depressive symptoms (PPD) and the association between 25(OH)D levels and PPD at 6 week post-delivery. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 330 cases and 330 age and BMI matched controls were recruited from the tertiary care hospital in South India. Women with depressive symptoms were assessed using the validated Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and cut-off score 10 was used. Serum 25(OH)D and VDBP levels were measured using commercially available ELISA kits. Serum total, free and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower in postpartum depressive women compared to non-depressive women (p <0.001, p=0.01). A significant negative correlation was observed between 25(OH)D, free 25(OH)D and bioavailable 25(OH)D with EPDS score in total study subjects (p <0.001, r=-0.19; p<0.001, r=-0.14 and p<0.001, r=-0.14). Multivariate linear regression analysis further confirmed a significant association between serum total, free and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels and EPDS score (p <0.001 ). Our study demonstrated that lower serum total, free and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels were associated with postpartum depressive symptoms.”

According to the news reporters, the research concluded: “Hypovitaminosis D after delivery may be a risk factor for postpartum depression.”

This research has been peer-reviewed.

How the Appreciation of Beauty Can Foster Perceptual Learning

University of Turin (Italy), October 23, 2020

“Stopping” and “seeing” are crucial components of many types of meditative practices, including Buddhist Zen meditation. In fact, these practices typically entail ceasing all activities to observe the thoughts, feelings and sensations arising at a given time, as well as sounds or other sensory stimuli in one’s surrounding environment.

In Buddhist meditation, “stopping and seeing” essentially refers to the process of not engaging with cravings or delusions of the mind, and seeing the “truth,” i.e., perceiving things exactly as they are, without interpreting them or trying to change them. Combined, these two concepts summarize the ancient belief and philosophical notion that action inhibition and observation of/attunement with sensory stimuli can enhance awareness and appreciation, helping to establish a spiritual connection with our surroundings.

The contemplative and mindful state that can be experienced while meditating is comparable to what a person may feel while observing a breathtaking natural spectacle (e.g., a sunset, a waterfall, the stars in the night sky, etc.), a creative artwork (i.e., a painting, a movie, etc.) or any other phenomenon, thing or person that he/she finds esthetically pleasing. In other words, beauty appears to encourage us to stop and embrace the present moment.

Fascinated by the effects that observing something we find beautiful can have on our brain and perceptions, researchers at University of Turin recently reviewed past literature focusing on this topic and rooted in different disciplines (e.g., neuroscience, psychology, computer science and philosophy). They then presented a summary of the findings gathered so far, along with their considerations, in a paper published in Elsevier’s Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews journal.

Overall, the results of the studies that these researchers reviewed in their paper suggest that emotions arising from the observation of esthetically pleasing elements plays a crucial part in how people acquire new knowledge and adapt to the surrounding environment. This idea is linked to theories introduced in the past, such as the romantic notion of “primacy of esthetics over reason,” or classic Greek philosophy.

In their paper, the researchers at the University of Turin explore these theories and past research exploring how our experience of beauty can facilitate knowledge acquisition. In addition, they introduce what they refer to as the “stopping for knowledge” hypothesis, which is based on models of esthetic appreciations outlined by other teams in the past, including Leonid Perlovsky and Felix Shoeller, Sander Van de Cruys and Johan Wagenmans, as well as the predictive coding theory proposed by Karl Friston.

“In this review, we discuss multidisciplinary results and propose an original account of esthetic appreciation (the stopping for knowledge hypothesis) framed within the predictive coding theory,” the researchers state in their paper. “We discuss evidence showing that esthetic emotions emerge in correspondence with an inhibition of motor behavior (i.e., minimizing action), promoting a simultaneous perceptual processing enhancement at the level of sensory cortices (i.e., optimizing learning).”

Based on the past studies they reviewed, the researchers hypothesize that esthetic appreciation represents a hedonic feedback (i.e., reward system in the brain reinforcing desirable or beneficial behaviors) that facilitates learning processes. Ultimately, the observation of beauty could thus motivate individuals to stop moving and seek further knowledge acquisition, in turn modulating their perceptual learning and memory retrieval.

The researchers also argue that helping patients to consciously appreciate beauty in the world around them could play an important role in psychotherapy, as many mental disorders are associated with dissociated experiences of emotion and rigid thought processes. Learning to be in the moment, to stop and observe the beauty around them, could thus help individuals to regain a curious, joyful and open-minded outlook on life.

In the future, the results could guide further studies exploring the impact of esthetic appreciation on knowledge acquisition and psychotherapy outcomes. In addition, it may also inform the development of new therapeutic approaches partly based on esthetic appreciation, or of machine learning algorithms that reflect human learning processes.

Herbs and plant compounds have promising effects to prevent or treat contrast-induced nephropathy

Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (Iran), October 16, 2020

According to news reporting originating from Mashhad, Iran, by NewsRx correspondents, research stated, “Currently, the use of iodinated contrast media in diagnostic imaging has been increased in clinical medicine. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is an important adverse effect of contrast media injection.”

Our news editors obtained a quote from the research from the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, “According to the significant role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of CIN, different herbal antioxidants have been used for the prevention of nephropathy in different studies. In this review, we discussed the preventive effects of herbal medicine and natural products against CIN. We searched the electronic databases or search engines including PubMed, Scopus, ISI, Google Scholar with search terms such as ‘Contrast-induced nephropathy’ and ‘Herbal medicine,’ ‘Contrast acute kidney injury’ AND ‘natural products’ and similar headings such as plant and extract. Known medicinal plants and active ingredients such as green tea, ginger, garlic, silymarin, curcumin, resveratrol, and thymoquinone have been examined for prophylactic effects or treatment of contrast media nephropathy. Herbal medicines have promising effects in the laboratory-based studies for the prevention and/or treatment of CIN.”

According to the news editors, the research concluded: “However, more practical and completed clinical trials are needed to investigate the clinical benefits of natural products against CIN.”

This research has been peer-reviewed.

Happiness and the Evolution of Brain Size

Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, October 24, 2020

During human evolution, the size of the brain increased, especially in a particular part called the neocortex. The neocortex enables us to speak, dream and think. In search of the causes underlying neocortex expansion, researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics in Dresden, together with colleagues at the University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, previously identified a number of molecular players. These players typically act cell-intrinsically in the so-called basal progenitors, the stem cells in the developing neocortex with a pivotal role in its expansion. The researchers now report an additional, novel role of the happiness neurotransmitter serotonin which is known to function in the brain to mediate satisfaction, self-confidence and optimism – to act cell-extrinsically as a growth factor for basal progenitors in the developing human, but not mouse, neocortex. Due to this new function, placenta-derived serotonin likely contributed to the evolutionary expansion of the human neocortex.

The research team of Wieland Huttner at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, who is one of the institute’s founding directors, has investigated the cause of the evolutionary expansion of the human neocortex in many studies. A new study from his lab focuses on the role of the neurotransmitter serotonin in this process. Serotonin is often called the happiness neurotransmitter because it transmits messages between nerve cells that contribute to well-being and happiness. However, a potential role of such neurotransmitters during brain development has not yet been explored in detail. In the developing embryo, the placenta produces serotonin, which then reaches the brain via the blood circulation. This is true for humans as well as mice. Yet, the function of this placenta-derived serotonin in the developing brain has been unknown.

The postdoctoral researcher Lei Xing in the Huttner group had studied neurotransmitters during his doctoral work in Canada. When he started his research project in Dresden after that, he was curious to investigate their role in the developing brain. Lei Xing says: “I exploited datasets generated by the group in the past and found that the serotonin receptor HTR2A was expressed in fetal human, but not embryonic mouse, neocortex. Serotonin needs to bind to this receptor in order to activate downstream signaling. I asked myself if this receptor could be one of the keys to the question of why humans have a bigger brain.” To explore this, the researchers induced the production of the HTR2A receptor in embryonic mouse neocortex. “Indeed, we found that serotonin, by activating this receptor, caused a chain of reactions that resulted in the production of more basal progenitors in the developing brain. More basal progenitors can then increase the production of cortical neurons, which paves the way to a bigger brain”, continues Lei Xing.

Significance for brain development and evolution

“In conclusion, our study uncovers a novel role of serotonin as a growth factor for basal progenitors in highly developed brains, notably human. Our data implicate serotonin in the expansion of the neocortex during development and human evolution”, summarizes Wieland Huttner, who supervised the study. He continues: “Abnormal signaling of serotonin and a disturbed expression or mutation of its receptor HTR2A have been observed in various neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as Down syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism. Our findings may help explain how malfunctions of serotonin and its receptor during fetal brain development can lead to congenital disorders and may suggest novel approaches for therapeutic avenues.”

Bits of genetic material called microRNAs may drive metabolic disorders

University of California at Berkeley, October 26, 2020

In a study published today in the journal Cell, UC Berkeley Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology professor Anders Näär led a group of researchers from 12 institutions in the United States and Europe, to better understand a region on the second human chromosome previously linked to both the digestion of milk and metabolic disorders. They discovered that a microRNA, which are tiny snippets of non-coding RNA that prevent genes from making proteins, is associated with energy storage and metabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

The path to this discovery began with the seemingly unrelated topic of adult milk consumption. For most of human history, humans have been unable to consume milk after infancy because the body stops producing lactase, the intestinal enzyme required to digest the milk sugar lactose, after weaning. About 5,000 years ago, a variant of a chromosome locus containing the lactase gene appeared in Europeans, allowing humans to digest milk into adulthood. Its spread through Europe was attributed to the idea that, in livestock herding populations, adult milk consumption would provide an additional source of nutrition and therefore higher survival rates when food was scarce.

Today, highly developed countries face problems related to nutritional overabundance rather than famine. Due to sedentary lifestyles and ample cheap, calorie-dense food, metabolic diseases are on the rise in many countries. Such conditions as obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension—all tied to excess food consumption—have contributed to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke.

For a long time, scientists have puzzled over which molecular and genetic underpinnings in the genome are associated with obesity. While obesity has a clear genetic element, studies have largely failed to find strong support for a single “obesity gene.” Interestingly, researchers had found that the chromosomal region associated with lactase persistence was also linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. But this did not explain the ability to drink milk in adulthood.

Indeed, milk spoils quickly and archeological records have revealed that herding populations were able to preserve dairy as cheese or yogurt, a process which removes most of the lactose. Individuals without the mutations were therefore likely able to consume preserved dairy products during famines, raising the question as to whether something else in the variant chromosome locus might provide a survival advantage.

Näär, then a professor in the Department of Cell Biology at Harvard Medical School and an investigator at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, had previously noticed that the European version of the chromosome 2 locus not only contained the lactase gene, but was also home to a microRNA called miR-128-1, which he and other collaborators had found was a crucial regulator of circulating cholesterol levels.

We had discovered that miR-128-1 was present in the same chromosome neighborhood as lactase, and the fact that the locus is also linked to metabolic diseases smelled to us like there might be a connection of the microRNA to human evolutionary adaptation to famine,” said Näär.

Most human genotype-phenotype studies focus on protein-coding genes, but the study was novel because the researchers asked if miR-128-1 could play a role as a key metabolic regulator. Though scientists had long thought that microRNAs only played minor roles in cells and tissues, it’s now known that they can carry out important molecular functions—in many instances, by controlling complex biological cascades and regulating gene expression. Näär and the team posited that miR-128-1 contributes to the energy storage trait, and that this could also link to the ancient lactase adaptation, as well as the diseases associated with excess nutrition.

In obesity tests using mice, the researchers interfered with the miR-128-1 function either by genetic deletion or by therapeutic molecules. Test mice lacking functional miR-128-1 burned more energy, had much diminished fat stores, and were protected from insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that miR-128-1 indeed plays a central role in controlling metabolism, by promoting energy storage via fat accumulation.

“The results were quite striking,” said Näär. “They show that a microRNA acting as a master regulator of the energy storage programs in many metabolically active organs may contribute to metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes linked to nutritional overabundance, as well as genetic selection in humans for obesity and type 2 diabetes.”

The study offers a potential route for clinical therapy to treat metabolic disorders and could have significant implications for public health. Traditionally, drugs to treat metabolic disorders focus on genes and proteins, but the study highlights the importance of non-coding microRNAs as possible therapeutic targets. Theoretically, the therapeutic targeting of miR-128-1 in humans could provide similar improvements in metabolic health.

“This is a fascinating detective story that brings together ancient evolutionary traits that date back to human domestication of animals and adapting to milk products, together with the current epidemic of obesity and metabolic dysregulation that contribute to both heart disease and cancer risk,” said Daniel Haber, MD, Ph.D., director of the Mass General Cancer Center. “And the guilty party appears not even to be a real gene, but rather a small piece of regulatory RNA that controls how groups of genes are coordinated. It’s a beautiful story and totally unexpected.”

Identifying potential anti-COVID-19 pharmacological components of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Naval Medical University and Xiamen University (China), October 28, 2020

Lian-hua-qing-wen (LHQW) capsule, a herb medicine product, has been clinically proved to be effective in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia treatment. However, human exposure to LHQW components and their pharmacological effects remain largely unknown. The authors of this study aimed to determine human exposure to LHQW components. Based on the human exposure analysis, several ACE2 binding components with good enzyme inhibitory effects were screened out by ACE2 biochromatography. The results obtained by the authors demonstrated chemical and biochemical evidence for exploring molecular mechanisms of therapeutic effects of LHQW capsule for the treatment of COVID-19 patients based on the components exposed to humans.

The research also demonstrated the utility of the human exposure-based approach to identifying pharmaceutically active components in Chinese herb medicines.

In September, LHQW received international approval for use to treat COVID-19 symptoms in developing countries.

Tumeric and bakuchiol plant extract show natural lip and anti-aging skincare efficacy

Burt’s Bees Laboratory, October 23, 2020

Burt’s Bees, a pioneer in natural skin care, today announced new research supporting the role of efficacy-first, natural regimens to defend, replenish and restore vibrant, healthier-looking skin. The studies will be presented at the virtual Integrative Dermatology Symposium (IDS) from October 23 – November 1, 2020.

The latest research findings from Burt’s Bees highlight:

Anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties of bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol that is well tolerated on sensitive and photo-damaged, aging skin.
In vitro and in vivo data on a natural lip balm containing antioxidant-rich turmeric and its ability to provide therapeutic benefits in dry or compromised lip conditions.

“At Burt’s Bees, our research and data are at the center of all that we do. The results from our latest studies further support the proven power of nature-based ingredients in skin care, providing valuable insight into the efficacy of bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative, and the potent antioxidant-rich botanical turmeric,” said Hemali Gunt, Ph. D., Head of Clinical and Scientific Affairs at Burt’s Bees. “Scientific evidence suggests a rise in inflammatory skin conditions, which is likely to be exacerbated by consistent mask wear paired with the approaching winter months. Bakuchiol and turmeric are proven to be powerful yet gentle nature-based ingredients that are key to helping to improve the condition of the skin and lips.”

Burt’s Bees posters at IDS 2020 will be available on the meeting platform until Sunday, Nov. 1 and include:

Bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, inhibits inflammatory markers in vitro and clinically improves appearance of aging, sensitive skin; Gunt H. and Levy S.; virtual presentation.
- About the Research: The anti-inflammatory effects of topical bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, was evaluated in vitro on test tissues before and after UVB exposure. The tolerability and efficacy of a topical bakuchiol was also studied in a 4-week study with female subjects with sensitive, photo-aging skin.
  - Results indicated a significant reduction in release of inflammation and irritation markers, demonstrating bakuchiol’s unique anti-inflammatory properties.
  - The study showed significant improvements in investigator-graded and subject-rated efficacy measures, indicating bakuchiol’s ability to improve the health of photodamaged skin without signs of irritation and supporting its use in topical treatments as a natural alternative to retinol.
In vitro anti-inflammatory activity and in vivo efficacy of a natural lip balm containing antioxidant-rich turmeric for extremely dry lips; Gunt H. and Levy S.; virtual presentation.
- About the Research: A natural lip balm containing turmeric, a potent botanical, combined with beeswax, cocoa and shea butters, and castor and coconut oils, replenishes the lips’ moisture barrier and improves hydration to help repair dry, sensitive lips.
  - The first study examined in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of a lip balm formulation containing turmeric via test tissues. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in ROS formation and inflammatory mediator release.
  - A second 2-week study examined in vivo efficacy of the lip balm on human lips. Results indicated significant improvements in clinical grading at measurement intervals (baseline, day 3, week 1 and week 2), with lip hydration increasing dramatically at day 3.
  - Overall, in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated that a well-formulated natural lip balm containing turmeric can boost antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity to provide therapeutic benefits in dry or compromised lip conditions.

“As more and more patients express a preference for using natural skincare products, this significant research helps us better understand the properties and efficacy of nature-based ingredients and how they can be used to positively impact skin health, especially for those with sensitive or compromised skin conditions,” said Stanley Levy, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and study investigator. “Clinical results help drive scientific support for natural regimens, as dermatologists seek natural solutions for their patients.”

Study shows how exercise stalls cancer growth through the immune system

Karolinska Institute (Sweden), October 26, 2020

People with cancer who exercise generally have a better prognosis than inactive patients. Now, researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have found a likely explanation of why exercise helps slow down cancer growth in mice: Physical activity changes the metabolism of the immune system’s cytotoxic T cells and thereby improves their ability to attack cancer cells. The study is published in the journal eLife.

“The biology behind the positive effects of exercise can provide new insights into how the body maintains health as well as help us design and improve treatments against cancer,” says Randall Johnson, professor at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, and the study’s corresponding author.

Prior research has shown that physical activity can prevent unhealth as well as improve the prognosis of several diseases including various forms of cancer. Exactly how exercise exerts its protective effects against cancer is, however, still unknown, especially when it comes to the biological mechanisms. One plausible explanation is that physical activity activates the immune system and thereby bolsters the body’s ability to prevent and inhibit cancer growth.

In this study, researchers at Karolinska Institutet expanded on this hypothesis by examining how the immune system’s cytotoxic T cells, that is white blood cellsspecialized in killing cancer cells, respond to exercise.

Cancer growth slowed in trained animals

They divided mice with cancer into two groups and let one group exercise regularly in a spinning wheel while the other remained inactive. The result showed that cancer growth slowed and mortality decreased in the trained animals compared with the untrained.

Next, the researchers examined the importance of cytotoxic T cells by injecting antibodies that remove these T cells in both trained and untrained mice. The antibodies knocked out the positive effect of exercise on both cancer growth and survival, which according to the researchers demonstrates the significance of these T cells for exercise-induced suppression of cancer.

The researchers also transferred cytotoxic T cells from trained to untrained mice with tumors, which improved their prospects compared with those who got cells from untrained animals.

Exercise altered T cell metabolism

To examine how exercise influenced cancer growth, the researchers isolated T cells, blood and tissue samples after a training sessions and measured levels of common metabolites that are produced in muscle and excreted into plasma at high levels during exertion. Some of these metabolites, such as lactate, altered the metabolism of the T cells and increased their activity. The researchers also found that T cells isolated from an exercised animal showed an altered metabolism compared to T cells from resting animals.

In addition, the researchers examined how these metabolites change in response to exercise in humans. They took blood samples from eight healthy men after 30 minutes of intense cycling and noticed that the same training-induced metabolites were released in humans.

“Our research shows that exercise affects the production of several molecules and metabolites that activate cancer-fighting immune cells and thereby inhibit cancer growth,” says Helene Rundqvist, senior researcher at the Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and the study’s first author. “We hope these results may contribute to a deeper understanding of how our lifestyle impacts our immune system and inform the development of new immunotherapies against cancer.”

Chia seeds as a potential cognitive booster in the APP23 Alzheimer’s disease model

Freie Universität Berlin, October 23, 2020

Abstract

Glucose hypometabolism potentially contributes to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and might even represent an underlying mechanism. Here, we investigate the relationship of diet-induced metabolic stress and AD as well as the therapeutic potential of chia seeds as a modulator of glucose metabolism in the APP23 mouse model. 4–6 (pre-plaque stage, PRE) and 28–32 (advanced-plaque stage, ADV) weeks old APP23 and wild type mice received pretreatment for 12 weeks with either sucrose-rich (SRD) or control diet, followed by 8 weeks of chia seed supplementation. Although ADV APP23 mice generally showed functioning glucose homeostasis, they were more prone to SRD-induced glucose intolerance. This was accompanied by elevated corticosterone levels and mild insulin insensitivity. Chia seeds improved spatial learning deficits but not impaired cognitive flexibility, potentially mediated by amelioration of glucose tolerance, attenuation of corticosterone levels and reversal of SRD-induced elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Since cognitive symptoms and plaque load were not aggravated by SRD-induced metabolic stress, despite enhanced neuroinflammation in the PRE group, we conclude that impairments of glucose metabolism do not represent an underlying mechanism of AD in this mouse model. Nevertheless, chia seeds might provide therapeutic potential in AD as shown by the amelioration of cognitive symptoms.

Conclusion

We initially hypothesized that APP23 mice would display a disturbed peripheral glucose metabolism. Contrary, we show here that the peripheral glucose metabolism of APP23 mice is generally functioning. Nevertheless, we show for the first time an age-dependent increase in vulnerability to metabolic stress in APP23 mice. But in contrast to our hypothesis that metabolic stress would aggravate AD pathology in APP23 mice, cognitive performance as well as Aβ plaque load are not negatively influenced by SRD, despite a SRD-induced elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. This suggests that glucose hypometabolism might not be the underlying mechanism driving AD pathology in this AD mouse model. Furthermore, we hypothesized that chia seeds would attenuate AD pathology by improving metabolic parameters. Our data reveal a moderate therapeutic potential of chia seeds in alleviating spatial learning impairments by a mild amelioration of glucose tolerance, a slight reduction of corticosterone levels, and a reversal of SRD-induced elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.

High Doses of Omega-3s May Slow Alzheimer’s Progression

University of Southern California, October 23rd 2020

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be good for heart health, but did you know that in high doses they may also slow cognitive decline?

Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has been studied extensively as a therapeutic intervention, demonstrating promise in the treatment of neurological conditions such as bipolar disorder[i] and severe depression.[ii]

In a quest for safe, effective treatment options for cognitive decline, researchers at the University of Southern California (USC) tested omega-3 supplementation for potential value in slowing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in a first-of-its-kind clinical trial.[iii]

According to senior author of the study Dr. Hussein Yassine, associate professor of medicine and neurology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, there is significant extant research supporting the preventive potential of omega-3 fatty acids, however, there is no data on the specific dosage required to achieve benefits in the fight against cognitive decline.

“Trials have been built on the assumption that omega-3s get into the brain,” Dr. Yassine said in a news release. “Our study was specifically designed to address this question.”[iv]

Brave Volunteers Help Science to Slow Alzheimer’s

Dr. Yassine and his team of researchers conducted a small-scale clinical trial in which participants made a brave sacrifice on behalf of scientific advancement.

To determine how much omega-3 supplement is absorbed by the central nervous system versus remaining suspended in the bloodstream, in addition to blood draws, study volunteers were required to undergo two lumbar punctures, or spinal taps, in which a hollow needle pierces the lower back.

One procedure was performed at commencement to establish baseline levels, with another performed upon completion of the study period. Researchers gathered these samples of blood plasma and cerebrospinal fluid in order to gauge whether omega-3s had reached the brain, and if so, in what amounts.

Scientists measured levels of two different omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The trial consisted of 33 participants with risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, including a family history of AD, sedentary lifestyle and a diet low in fatty fish. At the time of the intervention, none of the participants were cognitively impaired.

Out of the 33 total participants, 15 carried the gene variant APOE4, which is linked to inflammation in the brain and increases the risk of developing AD by a factor of four or more.

The other 18 participants were non-carriers of this variant. Participants were organized into two groups: control and treatment. The treatment group took supplements of more than 2 grams daily of DHA for six months. The control group took identical daily placebo capsules over the same time period. Both groups took daily B-complex vitamins for optimal metabolic processing of omega-3s.

Genetics May Affect Omega-3 Absorption

After the six-month intervention period was complete and analysis of biofluid samples were finalized, the treatment group participants who took omega-3 supplements had 200% more DHA in their blood compared to the control group.

DHA levels in cerebrospinal fluid were 28% higher in the treatment group than the control group, indicating a far lower absorption rate of omega-3s in the brain than is detectable in the bloodstream.

Among the individuals in the treatment group without the APOE4 genetic mutation that heightens the risk for Alzheimer’s, there was three times as much anti-inflammatory EPA detected in cerebrospinal fluid than in those with the APOE4 variant. This finding indicates that individuals with risk factors for AD may require higher doses of omega-3 fatty acids in order to achieve therapeutic levels in the brain.

“[APO]E4 carriers, despite having the same dose, had less omega-3s in the brain. This finding suggests that EPA is either getting consumed, getting lost or not getting absorbed into the brain as efficiently with the E4 gene,” Dr. Yassine stated.[v] The 2-gram dose of omega-3s used in this trial doubles the typical 1-gram dose used in prior major clinical trials on omega-3s for AD prevention.

Dr. Yassine warns that using a 1-gram omega-3 supplement correlates to a less than 10% increase in omega-3s in the brain, a dose that he says, “may not be considered meaningful” in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease progression.[vi]

The research team concluded that even higher doses of omega-3 fatty acids may be required to slow signs of declining brain health in carriers of the APOE4 gene.[vii]

The USC research team’s results were published in July 2020 in the journal EBioMedicine. Dr. Yassine has obtained additional funding for a larger, longer trial on whether high doses of omega-3s can slow cognitive decline in carriers of the APOE4 gene.

The two-year study, to be conducted on 320 participants, has a near-term goal to establish proof-of-concept that the drug is getting into the brain and positively affecting the biomarkers of disease. Researchers ultimately hope to identify and develop therapies for preventing AD.

Study suggests beta glucans as novel dietary supplement to help prevent early-stage pathologies associated with Alzheimer disease

Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China), October 16, 2020

According to news reporting originating in Wuhan, People’s Republic of China, research stated, “Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that remarkably imposes a huge global public health burden. Yeast beta-glucans have been incorporated in functional foods and used in prophylactic applications owing to their biological effects.”

The news reporters obtained a quote from the research from the Huazhong University of Science and Technology, “However, few studies had investigated the effects of yeast beta-glucans on neurodegenerative diseases. Here, gut microbiota and metabolites SCFAs were analyzed through high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing and GC-MS, respectively. Results indicated that yeast beta-glucans could prominently shape the intestinal flora and produce SCFAs. A beta(1-42)-induced AD mice treated with small-molecular yeast beta-glucan (S-beta-Glu) or macro-molecular yeast beta-glucan (M-beta-Glu) exhibited evident alterations of the composition of the gut microbiota, especially in some beneficial bacteria and inflammatory-related bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Desulfovibrio, Oscillibacter, Mucispirillum, Alistipes, Anaerotruncus, and Rikenella. M-beta-Glu regulated gut microbiota act as prebiotics better than S-beta-Glu. Correlation analysis demonstrated the key microbiota closely associated with AD-related pathologies and cognition. Moreover, M-beta-Glu and S-beta-Glu ameliorated neuroinflammation and brain insulin resistance (IR), which played a central role in the process of AD pathology.”

According to the news reporters, the research concluded: “This study broadened the underlying applications of yeast beta-glucans as a novel dietary supplementation to prevent early-stage pathologies associated with AD by regulating gut microbiota and the potential mechanism might be ameliorating brain IR.”

Study finds over 80 percent of COVID-19 patients have vitamin D deficiency

University of Cantabria (Spain), October 27, 2020

Over 80 percent of 200 COVID-19 patients in a hospital in Spain have vitamin D deficiency, according to a new study published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Vitamin D is a hormone the kidneys produce that controls blood calcium concentration and impacts the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a variety of health concerns, although research is still underway into why the hormone impacts other systems of the body. Many studies point to the beneficial effect of vitamin D on the immune system, especially regarding protection against infections.

“One approach is to identify and treat vitamin D deficiency, especially in high-risk individuals such as the elderly, patients with comorbidities, and nursing home residents, who are the main target population for the COVID-19,” said study co-author José L. Hernández, Ph.D., of the University of Cantabria in Santander, Spain. “Vitamin D treatment should be recommended in COVID-19 patients with low levels of vitamin D circulating in the blood since this approach might have beneficial effects in both the musculoskeletal and the immune system.”

The researchers found 80 percent of 216 COVID-19 patients at the Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla had vitamin D deficiency, and men had lower vitamin D levels than women. COVID-19 patients with lower vitamin D levels also had raised serum levels of inflammatory markers such as ferritin and D-dimer.

Silymarin from milk thistle can prevent hand-foot syndrome, a common side effect of chemotherapy, reports study

Mashhad University of Medical Studies (Iran), October 21, 2020

In a recent study, researchers from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS) in Iran found that topical application of silymarincan reduce the severity of hand-foot syndrome (HFS), a common side effect of chemotherapy. It is characterized by inflammation of the palms and soles.

Moreover, their study revealed that topical application of silymarin can also delay the onset of HFS in cancer patients. Their findings appeared in the journal Phytotherapy Research.

Silymarin for the prevention and treatment of HFS

HFS, or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, is a skin reaction that occurs upon exposure to certain drugs used in chemotherapy. Capecitabine, a chemotherapy medication used to treat breast, gastric and colorectal cancer, is notorious for causing HFS.

For their study, the researchers assessed the preventive effects of silymarin on capecitabine-induced HFS. To this end, the team conducted a randomized, double-blinded clinical trial involving 40 cancer patients who had no prior exposure to capecitabine but were scheduled to be treated with the drug.

Three in four patients in the silymarin group had gastric cancer. The researchers also measured all of the participants’ risk for HFS at baseline.

For the trial, the team placed both groups on capecitabine. They then applied a gel containing one percent silymarin on the soles and palms of patients in the silymarin group twice daily for nine weeks. They also measured the participants’ risk for HFS every three weeks.

The results showed that both groups had a higher risk of HFS during capecitabine treatment. But patients in the silymarin group had a lower risk of HFS at the end of the trial. The team also noted a delay in the development and progression of HFS in the silymarin group.

Taken together, their findings show that topical application of silymarin helps reduce the severity of capecitabine-induced HFS and delay its occurrence in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Loquat, native to many regions in Asia, exhibits anti-diabetes properties

Lovely Professional University (India), October 21, 2020

Eriobotrya japonica, commonly known as loquat, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the rose (Rosaceae) family. It is widely cultivated in China and Japan for its edible fruit and seeds, as well as for the medicinal uses of its various parts.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), loquat, or pi pa, is used to clear stomach heat, treat cough and eliminate phlegm. When fried in ginger juice, loquat leaves are great for relieving nausea and vomiting. They are also a common ingredient in traditional acne formulas because of their ability to clear the skin.

In a recent study published in the International Journal of Green Pharmacy, researchers from India explored the other medicinal properties of loquat leaves. They found that besides being a rich source of antioxidants, loquat leaves can also inhibit the activity of a-amylase, the enzyme responsible for digesting starch into smaller molecules.

One of the molecules produced from this process is maltose, which can be further broken down into two glucose molecules. Because of the role a-amylase plays in increasing postprandial (after meal) blood glucose levels, inhibitors of this enzyme are used for diabetes management.

Loquat leaves show potent anti-diabetic activity

According to the researchers, not many studies have been done to set a standard for the quality of loquat products, despite the plant’s popularity as a traditional medicine. They believe that various factors, such as location, climate, cultivation and method of collection, can influence the quality and effectiveness of loquat products, especially those used for medicinal purposes.

To address this, the researchers decided to analyze the phytochemical properties of loquat leaves and evaluate their antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities. Qualitative analysis of loquat leaves revealed that they contain tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, steroidal glycosides, alkaloids, quinones, saponins and reducing sugars. An extract derived from the leaves using methanol as solvent showed an almost identical phytochemical profile, save for the absence of saponins.

To assess the antioxidant and anti-diabetic potential of the methanolic extract, the researchers used the DPPH radical scavenging assay and the a-amylase inhibition assay. They found that the loquat extract has a slightly lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) than ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which is known to be a very potent antioxidant.

IC50 is a measure of the effectiveness of a particular substance in inhibiting a specific biological or biochemical function — in this case, the damaging oxidation caused by the free radical, DPPH. The lower IC50 value reported for the loquat extract suggests that it has a high antioxidant capacity — higher than ascorbic acid — even at low concentrations.

Meanwhile, in terms of anti-diabetic activity, the researchers observed a similar trend: They found that the IC50 of the loquat extract was lower than the IC50 of acarbose, the standard it was compared to. This indicates that the extract can inhibit the activity of a-amylase better than acarbose, an anti-diabetic drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes.

Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that loquat leaves are a promising natural medicine for diabetes.

Vitamin D deficiency may be a factor in etiology of laryngomalacia

Kafkas University (Turkey), October 19, 2020

According to news reporting out of Kars, Turkey, research stated, “The possible etiological relationship of the vitamin D with laryngomalacia is unclear. Laryngomalacia is a softening of the tissues of the larynx (voice box). The aim of the study was to demonstrate the relationship between laryngomalacia and vitamin D levels.”

Our news journalists obtained a quote from the research from Kafkas University, “Twenty-three non-syndromic babies under the age of 1 year who were diagnosed with laryngomalacia were included in the study group. Forty healthy babies were included in the control group. The detailed anamnesis was obtained and a complete systemic physical examination, a flexible endoscopic laryngeal examination, and laboratory tests [calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), parathormone (PTH), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cre), and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OH D)] were performed in all patients. All laboratory tests of the groups were compared. It was observed that there was no significant difference in the parameters that could affect vitamin D levels, namely type of feeding, vitamin D supplement intake, and the season when the serum sample was taken (p >0.05). The vitamin D level was significantly lower (p=0.003, p<0.05) and the P and ALP levels were significantly higher (p=0.016 and p=0.001, respectively; p<0.05) in the laryngomalacia group. Although the correlation between vitamin D and PTH was not statistically significant according to the Pearson correlation analysis, it was lower in the laryngomalacia group compared to the control group (p=0.381, p>0.05). In this study, it was observed that the vitamin D levels were lower in infants with laryngomalacia compared to the control group.”

According to the news editors, the research concluded: “We consider that vitamin D deficiency may be a factor in the etiology of laryngomalacia with a yet-to-be-clarified etiology.”

This research has been peer-reviewed.

The obesity and cancer metastasis connection

Tufts University, October 22, 2020

One in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer within their lifetimes. Fortunately, there has been significant progress in the treatment of a wide range of cancers, particularly when they are localized to a small area and can be removed with surgery or eliminated by treatments like chemotherapy.

In some patients, though, the tumor cellsbreak off and invade other areas of the body—what’s called metastasis—causing widespread damage and making treatment much more difficult. In fact, 90 percent of cancer deaths are due to metastasis.

The risk of metastasis is greater in some individuals, including those who are obese. Why obesity, which affects Black Americans and Hispanic Americans more than the general population, appears to trigger metastasis at a higher rate is still not well understood.

Now Madeleine Oudin, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering, and her team at the School of Engineering have made some fascinating discoveries about metastasis and how obesity may promote it.

In a study published today in Science Advances, they have found that specific proteins in the scaffolding on which the cells grow, known as the extracellular matrix (ECM), may play an important role in triggering the invasion of cancer cells in the breast fat tissue of obese individuals. Differences in their ECM may explain why obese women have higher rates of metastasis.

“Given the worldwide prevalence of obesity and its increased risk for breast cancer development, it is remarkable that we have had limited understanding of the role of ECM plays within breast fat tissue to facilitate metastasis,” said Andrew Greenberg, director of the Obesity and Metabolism Team at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts, who is a collaborator on this study. “This research is beginning to dissect the molecular origins of that link.”

The ECM has long been suspected of engaging in a back-and-forth response to cancer growth, in which the cancer cells induce changes in the ECM, which in turn create an environment that supports further growth of the tumor. ECM is a complex mix of collagen, elastins, fibronectin, enzymes, laminins, and other glycoproteins, but in obesity, the amount and composition of those components change, leading to fibrosis. The molecular scaffolding for tumors in obese patients is very different than in lean patients.

The Oudin lab developed a novel method to study the effects of the ECM on cancer cells. Specifically, they took mammary tissue from obese and lean mouse models, as well as tumor-bearing mice and stripped them of cells to obtain a complete, but “empty” ECM. The process is similar to the way sea sponges can be stripped of cells, leaving just their extracellular matrix to create a bath sponge. In fact, the researchers refer to the empty ECMs as “sponges.”

They then added tumor cells of triple negative breast cancer—a particularly difficult cancer to treat—derived from mice back into the ECM sponge to see its effects on the tumor cells.

They found that both ECM from the obese and tumor-bearing mice are equally effective at making tumor cells more metastatic. The ECM from lean mice, though, were less so. In other words, the ECM from obese mice acts as if it has already been primed with a tumor, and is ready to promote metastasis at a much earlier stage.

“The key advantage of this method is that we can observe cancer cells interacting with the ECM naturally generated in tissues, which is much more accurate than if we had formed the ECM synthetically in the lab,” says Andrew Wishart, former research technician in Oudin’s lab and lead author of the study, who is now at Jackson Laboratory. “Once you find an interesting interaction you can then tease apart the molecular changes in the ECM to find out which proteins could be driving that response.”

By looking at the changes in the ECM linked to invasive tumor behavior, Oudin and her colleagues zeroed in on the protein, Collagen VI.

Collagen VI, it turns out, is added to the ECM by fat cells (adipocytes) present in the breast tissue. The experiments showed that the elevated levels of Collagen VI had been promoting the migration and invasion of the breast cancer cells to surrounding areas. The researchers also showed that if you apply certain drugs that inhibit the production of Collagen VI, you can rein in tumor growth and invasion.

The discovery might help point to new drug targets for cancer, and it is just the beginning of a more complete inventory of the biological mechanisms leading to metastasis, said Oudin.

“There is still so much we don’t understand about how the ECM contributes to disease, but we are working to change that,” said Oudin. “We are now developing ways to use the ECM to help predict the metastatic potential of tumors, or to deliver drugs directly to the most aggressive cells in the populations most affected by obesity and cancer.”

Bacterial metabolism of dietary soy may lower risk factor for dementia

University of Pittsburgh, Oct. 22, 2020

A metabolite produced following consumption of dietary soy may decrease a key risk factor for dementia–with the help of the right bacteria, according to a new discovery led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health.

Their study, published today in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions, reports that elderly Japanese men and women who produce equol–a metabolite of dietary soy created by certain types of gut bacteria–display lower levels of white matter lesions within the brain.

“White matter lesions are significant risk factors for cognitive decline, dementia and all-cause mortality,” said lead author Akira Sekikawa, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of epidemiology at Pitt Public Health. “We found 50% more white matter lesions in people who cannot produce equol compared to people who can produce it, which is a surprisingly huge effect.”

To obtain this result, Sekikawa’s research team measured equol levels within the blood of 91 elderly Japanese participants with normal cognition. Participants were sorted by their equol production status, and then six to nine years later underwent brain imaging to detect levels of white matter lesions and deposits of amyloid-beta, which is the suspected molecular cause of Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers found that while equol production did not appear to impact levels of amyloid-beta deposited within the brain, it was associated with reduced white matter lesion volumes. Sekikawa’s team also discovered that high levels of isoflavones–soy nutrients that are metabolized into equol–had no effect on levels of white matter lesions or amyloid-beta when equol wasn’t produced.

According to Sekikawa, the ability to produce equol from soy isoflavones may be the key to unlocking protective health benefits from a soy-rich diet, and his team has previously shown that equol production is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. As heart disease is strongly associated with cognitive decline and dementia, equol production could help protect the aging brain as well as the heart.

Epidemiological studies in Japan, where soy is regularly consumed, have shown that dietary intake of soy isoflavones has been linked to a lower risk for heart disease and dementia. However, most clinical trials in America have failed to show this.

Sekikawa believes that this discrepancy may be due to the microbiome–40-70% of Japanese harbor gut bacteria that can convert dietary isoflavones into equol compared to only 20-30% of Americans.

Sekikawa said that equol supplements could one day be combined with existing diet-based prevention strategies that appear to lower the risk of dementia, particularly the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean diets.

Though Sekikawa hopes to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of equol supplements in a future randomized clinical trial, in the meantime, he urges caution to anyone who might be tempted to purchase equol supplements to stave off dementia.

“This type of study always catches people’s attention, but we cannot prove that equol protects against dementia until we get a randomized clinical trial with sufficient evidence,” he said.

Study: 34% of older adults in the US are prescribed potentially inappropriate drugs

Research finds these patients are prescribed twice as many drugs, and nearly twice as likely to be hospitalized or visit the emergency room

University of Buffalo, October 23, 2020

The prescription of potentially inappropriate medications to older adults is linked to increased hospitalizations, and it costs patients, on average, more than $450 per year, according to a new University at Buffalo study.

The research, which sought to determine the impact of potentially inappropriate medications on health care utilization and costs in the United States, also found that more than 34% of adults age 65 and older were prescribed these problematic drugs.

“Although efforts to de-prescribe have increased significantly over the last decade, potentially inappropriate medications continue to be prescribed at a high rate among older adults in the United States,” says David Jacobs, PharmD, PhD, lead investigator and assistant professor of pharmacy practice in the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Collin Clark, PharmD, first author on the paper and clinical assistant professor in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, adds, “The average age of the U.S. population is rising, and older adults account for a disproportionate amount of prescription medications. Harm to older adults caused by potentially inappropriate medications is a major public health challenge.”

As the human body ages, the risk of experiencing harmful side effects from medications increases. Potentially inappropriate medications are drugs that should be avoided by older adults due to these risks outweighing the benefits of the medication, or when effective but lower risk alternative treatments are available.

The study, which was published in August in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, used the 2011-2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey – conducted annually by the U.S. Public Health Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – to examine the prescription of 33 potentially inappropriate medications or classes of medications to adults 65 and older.

Among the potentially inappropriate medications examined were antidepressants, barbiturates, androgens, estrogens, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, first-generation antihistamines, and antipsychotics.

Among the 218 million-plus older adults surveyed, more than 34% were prescribed at least one potentially inappropriate medication. Those patients were, on average, prescribed twice as many drugs, were nearly twice as likely to be hospitalized or visit the emergency department, and were more likely to visit a primary care physician compared to older adults who were not prescribed potentially inappropriate medication.

Patients who received these medications also spent an additional $458 on health care, including an extra $128 on prescription drugs.

“De-prescribing is currently at an early stage in the United States. Further work is needed to implement interventions that target unnecessary and inappropriate medications in older adults,” says Jacobs.

Selected flavonoids (hispidulin and luteolin) showed promising results as lead compounds for potential treatment of acute myeloid leukemia

Taipei Medical University (Taiwan), October 20, 2020

According to news reporting out of Taipei, Taiwan, research stated, “Excessive eIF4E phosphorylation by mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-interacting kinases 1 and 2 (MNK1 and MNK2; collectively, MNKs) has been associated with oncogenesis. The overexpression of eIF4E in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is related to cancer cell growth and survival.”

Our news journalists obtained a quote from the research from Taipei Medical University, “Thus, the inhibition of MNKs and eIF4E phosphorylation are potential therapeutic strategies for AML. Herein, a structure-based virtual screening approach was performed to identify potential MNK inhibitors from natural products. Three flavonoids, apigenin, hispidulin, and luteolin, showed MNK2 inhibitory activity with IC values of 308, 252, and 579 nM, respectively. A structure-activity relationship analysis was performed to disclose the molecular interactions. Furthermore, luteolin exhibited substantial inhibitory efficacy against MNK1 (IC=179 nM). Experimental results from cellular assays showed that hispidulin and luteolin inhibited the growth of MOLM-13 and MV4-11 AML cells by downregulating eIF4E phosphorylation and arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase.”

According to the news editors, the research concluded: “Therefore, hispidulin and luteolin showed promising results as lead compounds for the potential treatment for AML.” Hispidulin is commonly found in mugwort, sage and wormwood; and luteolin is found celetry, thyme, green peppers, chamomile and foods rich with quercetin.

This research has been peer-reviewed.

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Health and Corona News - 10.25.20-11.1.20

High vitamin A, E, and D intake linked to fewer respiratory complaints in adults

High-sugar diet can damage the gut, intensifying risk for colitis

How laughter improves health

Fucoidan found in brown seaweed supports healthy level of inflammation

Medical University-Plovdiv(Bulgaria), October 23, 2020

Belly Fat Really Is A Killer: Here’s How It Can Increase Your Cancer Risk

Study finds grape seed extract supplementation along with a restricted calorie diet improves cardiovascular risk factors in obese or overweight adults

Extra virgin olive oil contains more polyphenols than other varieties

Published in Tulsa World, October 27, 2020

Strawberry nutrient helps protect elderly from neurodegenerative disease

Strawberry compound effective against both genetic and age-related Alzheimer’s disease

Fisetin in strawberries reduces the markers for inflammation and stress associated with neurodegenerative disease

As if we needed another “excuse” to eat more strawberries!

Researchers find strong evidence linking artificial sweeteners to asthma

Higher intake of HFCS linked to higher asthma risk

Study suggests that deficiency of vitamin D or selenium may decrease immune defenses against respiratory viral illness

Wrinkled ‘Super Pea’ Could Be Added To Foods To Reduce Diabetes Risk

Imperial College London, October 26, 2020

Reduced maternal serum total, free and bioavailable vitamin D levels associated with greater risk of postpartum depression

Herbs and plant compounds have promising effects to prevent or treat contrast-induced nephropathy

Bits of genetic material called microRNAs may drive metabolic disorders

Identifying potential anti-COVID-19 pharmacological components of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Tumeric and bakuchiol plant extract show natural lip and anti-aging skincare efficacy

Study shows how exercise stalls cancer growth through the immune system

Chia seeds as a potential cognitive booster in the APP23 Alzheimer’s disease model

High Doses of Omega-3s May Slow Alzheimer’s Progression

Study suggests beta glucans as novel dietary supplement to help prevent early-stage pathologies associated with Alzheimer disease

Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China), October 16, 2020

Study finds over 80 percent of COVID-19 patients have vitamin D deficiency

Silymarin from milk thistle can prevent hand-foot syndrome, a common side effect of chemotherapy, reports study

Silymarin for the prevention and treatment of HFS

Loquat, native to many regions in Asia, exhibits anti-diabetes properties

Loquat leaves show potent anti-diabetic activity

Vitamin D deficiency may be a factor in etiology of laryngomalacia

Kafkas University (Turkey), October 19, 2020

The obesity and cancer metastasis connection

Bacterial metabolism of dietary soy may lower risk factor for dementia

Study: 34% of older adults in the US are prescribed potentially inappropriate drugs

Selected flavonoids (hispidulin and luteolin) showed promising results as lead compounds for potential treatment of acute myeloid leukemia

Taipei Medical University (Taiwan), October 20, 2020