scholarly journals Mechanisms Modified by (−)-Epicatechin and Taxifolin Relevant for the Treatment of Hypertension and Viral Infection: Knowledge from Preclinical Studies

Antioxidants ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 467
Author(s):  
Iveta Bernatova ◽  
Silvia Liskova

Various studies have shown that certain flavonoids, flavonoid-containing plant extracts, and foods can improve human health. Experimental studies showed that flavonoids have the capacity to alter physiological processes as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with their antioxidant properties. An important function of flavonoids was determined in the cardiovascular system, namely their capacity to lower blood pressure and to improve endothelial function. (−)-Epicatechin and taxifolin are two flavonoids with notable antihypertensive effects and multiple beneficial actions in the cardiovascular system, but they also possess antiviral effects, which may be of particular importance in the ongoing pandemic situation. Thus, this review is focused on the current knowledge of (−)-epicatechin as well as (+)-taxifolin and/or (−)-taxifolin-modified biological action and underlining molecular mechanisms determined in preclinical studies, which are relevant not only to the treatment of hypertension per se but may provide additional antiviral benefits that could be relevant to the treatment of hypertensive subjects with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria D. Pinazo-Durán ◽  
Francisco Gómez-Ulla ◽  
Luis Arias ◽  
Javier Araiz ◽  
Ricardo Casaroli-Marano ◽  
...  

Purpose. To review the proposed pathogenic mechanisms of age macular degeneration (AMD), as well as the role of antioxidants (AOX) and omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3) supplements in AMD prevention.Materials and Methods. Current knowledge on the cellular/molecular mechanisms of AMD and the epidemiologic/experimental studies on the effects of AOX andω-3 were addressed all together with the scientific evidence and the personal opinion of professionals involved in the Retina Group of the OFTARED (Spain).Results. High dietary intakes ofω-3 and macular pigments lutein/zeaxanthin are associated with lower risk of prevalence and incidence in AMD. The Age-Related Eye Disease study (AREDS) showed a beneficial effect of high doses of vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, and zinc/copper in reducing the rate of progression to advanced AMD in patients with intermediate AMD or with one-sided late AMD. The AREDS-2 study has shown that lutein and zeaxanthin may substitute beta-carotene because of its potential relationship with increased lung cancer incidence.Conclusion. Research has proved that elder people with poor diets, especially with low AOX andω-3 micronutrients intake and subsequently having low plasmatic levels, are more prone to developing AMD. Micronutrient supplementation enhances antioxidant defense and healthy eyes and might prevent/retard/modify AMD.


2012 ◽  
Vol 2012 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wei Zhou ◽  
John C. Longhurst

Hypertension affects approximately 1 billion individuals worldwide. Pharmacological therapy has not been perfected and often is associated with adverse side effects. Acupuncture is used as an adjunctive treatment for a number of cardiovascular diseases like hypertension. It has long been established that the two major contributors to systemic hypertension are the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system and chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Recent evidence indicates that in some models of cardiovascular disease, blockade of AT1 receptors in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) reduces sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure, suggesting that overactivity of the angiotensin system in this nucleus may play a role in the maintenance of hypertension. Our experimental studies have shown that electroacupuncture stimulation activates neurons in the arcuate nucleus, ventrolateral gray, and nucleus raphe to inhibit the neural activity in the rVLM in a model of visceral reflex stimulation-induced hypertension. This paper will discuss current knowledge of the effects of acupuncture on central nervous system and how they contribute to regulation of acupuncture on the endocrine system to provide a perspective on the future of treatment of hypertension with this ancient technique.


Author(s):  
Irina Tikhomirova ◽  
Alexei Muravyov

this review summarizes current knowledge of the hydrogen sulfide role in cardiovascular system, the proposed mechanisms of its action and the prospects for its applicability in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Hydrogen sulfide was recently recognized as gasotransmitter – simple signaling molecule which freely penetrates the cell membrane and regulates a number of biological functions. In humans endogenous H2S is generated via enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways and its content varies in different tissues and is strictly regulated. In cardiovascular system H2S is produced by myocardial, vascular and blood cells and regulates a number of vital functions. Numerous experimental data prove that endogenously generated as well as exogenously administered H2S exerts a wide range of actions in cardiovascular system, including vasodilator/vasoconstrictor effects, regulation of blood pressure, pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects in the vascular smooth muscle cells, influence on angiogenesis and erythropoiesis, myocardial cytoprotection in ischemia-reperfusion injury, oxygen sensing, inhibition of platelet aggregation and blood coagulation, modification of erythrocyte microrheological properties (aggregability and deformability). Understanding of molecular mechanisms of H2S action and molecular crosstalk between H2S, NO, and CO is essential for the development of its diagnostic and therapeutic potential.


10.20883/172 ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 85 (4) ◽  
pp. 317 ◽  
Author(s):  
Radosław Kujawski ◽  
Małgorzata Kujawska ◽  
Marcin Ożarowski ◽  
Justyna Baraniak ◽  
Halina Laskowska ◽  
...  

Gallotannins are class of hydrolyzable tannins consisting of gallic acid and a sugar moiety. Currently, there is growing interest around a possible neuroprotective effect of this class of phytochemicals, which is suggested to be a result of their active metabolites. Evidence from experimental studies has suggested that tannin‑rich plant preparations might be effective at reversing neurodegenerative pathology and age‑related declines in neurocognitive performance. This mini‑review summarizes, based on experimental studies, current knowledge about diverse neuroprotective abilities of gallotannins, mostly via antioxidant properties and some mechanisms of the effect are proposed including blocking accumulation of nitrites, inhibiting expression and activity of heme oxygenase 1(HO-1), and decreasing degradation of poly(ADP‑ribose) glycohydrolase (PARP).


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Akinori Higaki ◽  
Ahmad U M Mahmoud ◽  
Pierre Paradis ◽  
Ernesto L Schiffrin

Abstract Current knowledge suggests that hypertension is in part mediated by immune mechanisms. Both interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-17 are up-regulated in several experimental hypertensive rodent models, as well as in hypertensive humans in observational studies. Recent preclinical studies have shown that either IL-23 or IL-17A treatment induce blood pressure elevation. However, the IL-23/IL-17 axis has not been a major therapeutic target in hypertension, unlike in other autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the role of these cytokines in immune mechanisms contributing to hypertension, and discuss the potential of IL-23/IL-17-targeted therapy for treatment of hypertension.


2018 ◽  
Vol 132 (9) ◽  
pp. 925-942 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clarissa P.C. Gomes ◽  
David de Gonzalo-Calvo ◽  
Rocio Toro ◽  
Tiago Fernandes ◽  
Daniel Theisen ◽  
...  

There is overwhelming evidence that regular exercise training is protective against cardiovascular disease (CVD), the main cause of death worldwide. Despite the benefits of exercise, the intricacies of their underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been recognized as a major regulatory network governing gene expression in several physiological processes and appeared as pivotal modulators in a myriad of cardiovascular processes under physiological and pathological conditions. However, little is known about ncRNA expression and role in response to exercise. Revealing the molecular components and mechanisms of the link between exercise and health outcomes will catalyse discoveries of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Here we review the current understanding of the ncRNA role in exercise-induced adaptations focused on the cardiovascular system and address their potential role in clinical applications for CVD. Finally, considerations and perspectives for future studies will be proposed.


2016 ◽  
Vol 86 (5-6) ◽  
pp. 215-227 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aziz Homayouni-Rad ◽  
Ahmad-Reza Soroush ◽  
Leila Khalili ◽  
Leila Norouzi-Panahi ◽  
Zahra Kasaie ◽  
...  

Abstract. Diabetes mellitus, a multifactorial disorder, is related to the intestinal microbiota via numerous molecular mechanisms. The vast increase in the prevalence of diabetes and its associated complications requires a natural and safe solution. There is a growing evidence of gut microbiota effi ciency in improving insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and metabolic complications in diabetic patients. Probiotics are defi ned as live microorganisms that, when ingested in adequate amounts, exert health benefi ts to the host. Probiotics can increase insulin sensitivity and reduce autoimmune responses by modulating intestinal microbiota and decreasing the infl ammatory reactions and oxidative stress. Recent evidences show that the intestinal microbiota infl uences the host through modulating intestinal permeability and mucosal immune response, manipulating eating behaviors by appetite-regulating hormones, including agouti related protein (AgRP), glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and neuropeptide Y, and controlling gut endocannabinoid (eCB) system which is now believed to be associated with infl ammation and diabetes. Moreover, intestinal microbiota control the host metabolism by affecting energy extraction from food and by biochemically converting molecules derived from the host or from gut microbes themselves. Experimental studies and clinical trials support the hypothesis that the modulation of the intestinal microbiota by probiotics, especially Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains may be effective in prevention and management of diabetes. This review will highlight the current evidences in probiotic effectiveness and future prospects for exploring probiotic therapy in prevention and control of diabetes.


2019 ◽  
Vol 26 (37) ◽  
pp. 6735-6749 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francisco Blanco-Vaca ◽  
Lídia Cedó ◽  
Josep Julve

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Compelling evidence supports the hypothesis that the manipulation of dietary components, including plant compounds termed as phytochemicals, demonstrates certain important health benefits in humans, including those in cancer. In fact, beyond their well-known cardiovascular applications, phytosterols may also possess anticancer properties, as has been demonstrated by several studies. Although the mechanism of action by which phytosterols (and derivatives) may prevent cancer development is still under investigation, data from multiple experimental studies support the hypothesis that they may modulate proliferation and apoptosis of tumor cells. Phytosterols are generally considered safe for human consumption and may also be added to a broad spectrum of food matrices; further, they could be used in primary and secondary prevention. However, few interventional studies have evaluated the relationship between the efficacy of different types and forms of phytosterols in cancer prevention. In this context, the purpose of this review was to revisit and update the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms involved in the anticancer action of phytosterols and their potential in cancer prevention or treatment.


Viruses ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. 859 ◽  
Author(s):  
Muslin ◽  
Kain ◽  
Bessaud ◽  
Blondel ◽  
Delpeyroux

RNA recombination is a major driving force in the evolution and genetic architecture shaping of enteroviruses. In particular, intertypic recombination is implicated in the emergence of most pathogenic circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses, which have caused numerous outbreaks of paralytic poliomyelitis worldwide. Recent experimental studies that relied on recombination cellular systems mimicking natural genetic exchanges between enteroviruses provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms of enterovirus recombination and enabled to define a new model of genetic plasticity for enteroviruses. Homologous intertypic recombinant enteroviruses that were observed in nature would be the final products of a multi-step process, during which precursor nonhomologous recombinant genomes are generated through an initial inter-genomic RNA recombination event and can then evolve into a diversity of fitter homologous recombinant genomes over subsequent intra-genomic rearrangements. Moreover, these experimental studies demonstrated that the enterovirus genome could be defined as a combination of genomic modules that can be preferentially exchanged through recombination, and enabled defining the boundaries of these recombination modules. These results provided the first experimental evidence supporting the theoretical model of enterovirus modular evolution previously elaborated from phylogenetic studies of circulating enterovirus strains. This review summarizes our current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of recombination in enteroviruses and presents a new evolutionary process that may apply to other RNA viruses.


2016 ◽  
Vol 85 (4) ◽  
pp. 317-322
Author(s):  
Radosław Kujawski ◽  
Małgorzata Kujawska ◽  
Marcin Ożarowski ◽  
Justyna Baraniak ◽  
Halina Laskowska ◽  
...  

Gallotannins are class of hydrolyzable tannins consisting of gallic acid and a sugar moiety. Currently, there is growing interest around a possible neuroprotective effect of this class of phytochemicals, which is suggested to be a result of their active metabolites. Evidence from experimental studies has suggested that tannin-rich plant preparations might be effective at reversing neurodegenerative pathology and age-related declines in neurocognitive performance. This mini-review summarizes, based on experimental studies, current knowledge about diverse neuroprotective abilities of gallotannins, mostly via antioxidant properties and some mechanisms of the effect are proposed including blocking accumulation of nitrites, inhibiting expression and activity of heme oxygenase 1(HO-1), and decreasing degradation of poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARP).


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document