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Lifestyle Genomics 2024It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism,...
INTRODUCTION
It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism, but evidence is not consistent. Genetics may account for differences in CAP tolerance and its impact on adiposity status. The aim of this study was to systematically review current evidence concerning the role of genetic polymorphisms influencing CAP tolerance.
METHODS
The present systematic review analyzed and synthesized available evidence concerning associations between genetic polymorphisms and CAP tolerance following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS were screened. Out of 228 publications identified, only 6 meet inclusion criteria and were finally included in the final report.
RESULTS
Overall, a total of 28 single nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with several CAP tolerance traits including sensitivity to burning/stinging, heat pain, and cough reactions, and detection of bitter taste thresholds. These genetic variants were located within 6 genes involved in key physiological processes such synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide production (GCH1), CAP uptake and transduction of thermal stimuli (TRPV1), and bitter taste perception (TAS2R38, TAS2R3, TAS2R4, and TAS2R5).
CONCLUSION
There is evidence about the influence of genetic polymorphisms on CAP tolerance by affecting nociceptive signaling, CAP binding, and bitter tasting. This knowledge may facilitate the design and implementation of innovative CAP-based nutrigenetic strategies for a more precise clinical management of obesity.
Topics: Humans; Capsaicin; Obesity; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Capsicum; Taste; Taste Perception; TRPV Cation Channels; Precision Medicine
PubMed: 38810602
DOI: 10.1159/000539293 -
Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of... Aug 2024This systematic review aimed to compare the physical-mechanical properties of 3D-printed (additively manufactured (AM)) zirconia compared to conventionally milled... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
AIM OF STUDY
This systematic review aimed to compare the physical-mechanical properties of 3D-printed (additively manufactured (AM)) zirconia compared to conventionally milled (subtractive manufactured: SM) zirconia specimens.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A thorough search of Internet databases was conducted up to September 2023. The search retrieved studies that evaluated AM zirconia specimens and restorations regarding the physical-mechanical properties and mechanical behavior of zirconia. The main topic focused on 3Y-TZP. However, records of 4YSZ and 5YSZ were also included to gather more comprehensive evidence on additively manufactured zirconia ceramic. The quality of studies was assessed using the ROB2 tool, Newcastle Ottawa scale, and the Modified Consort Statement. Of 1736 records, 57 were assessed for eligibility, and 38 records were included in this review, only two clinical trials meet the inclusion criteria and 36 records were laboratory studies. There were no signs of mechanical complications and wear to antagonists with short-term clinical observation. SM thin specimens ≤1.5 mm showed statistically significant higher flexural strength than AM zirconia (p ≤ 0.01), while thicker specimens showed comparable outcomes (p > 0.5). The fracture resistance of dental restorations was dependent on the aging protocol, restoration type, and thickness. The bond strength of veneering ceramic to zirconia core was comparable.
CONCLUSIONS
The results pooled from two short-term clinical trials showed no signs of mechanical or biological complications of additively manufactured 3Y-TZP zirconia crowns. The flexural strength might depend on the specimens' thickness, but it showed promising results to be used in clinical applications, taking into account the printing technique and orientation, material composition (yttria content), solid loading, and sintering parameters. 3D-printed restorations fracture resistance improved when adhered to human teeth. The veneering ceramic bond was comparable to milled zirconia specimens. Long-term RCTs are recommended to confirm the mechanical behavior of 3D-printed restorations.
Topics: Humans; Dental Materials; Materials Testing; Mechanical Phenomena; Printing, Three-Dimensional; Zirconium
PubMed: 38810545
DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106601 -
Frontiers in Pharmacology 2024As a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a long history, Codonopsis pilosula (CP) has attracted much attention from the medical community in recent years. This... (Review)
Review
As a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a long history, Codonopsis pilosula (CP) has attracted much attention from the medical community in recent years. This review summarizes the research progress of CP in the medical field in the past 5 years. By searching and analyzing the literature, and combining with Cytoscape software, we comprehensively examined the role and mechanism of action of CP in individual application, combination drug application, and the role and mechanism of action of codonopsis pilosula's active ingredients in a variety of diseases. It also analyzes the medicinal use of CP and its application value in medicine. This review found that CP mainly manifests important roles in several diseases, such as cardiovascular system, nervous system, digestive system, immune system, etc., and regulates the development of many diseases mainly through the mechanisms of inflammation regulation, oxidative stress, immunomodulation and apoptosis. Its rich pharmacological activities and diverse medicinal effects endow CP with broad prospects and application values. This review provides valuable reference and guidance for the further development of CP in traditional Chinese medicine.
PubMed: 38803438
DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1415147 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024Traumatic brain injury (TBI), a leading cause of high morbidity and mortality, represents a significant global public health challenge. Currently, no effective treatment...
BACKGROUND AND AIM
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), a leading cause of high morbidity and mortality, represents a significant global public health challenge. Currently, no effective treatment for TBI exists. Curcumin, an active compound extracted from the root of , has demonstrated neuroprotective properties both and . Notably, it has shown potential in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and enhancing redox balance. This paper conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore curcumin's role in TBI animal models extensively. The findings offer valuable insights for future human clinical trials evaluating curcumin as a therapeutic supplement or nutraceutical in TBI management.
METHODS
Comprehensive literature searches were conducted across MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. These searches aimed to identify relevant manuscripts in all languages, utilizing the keywords "curcumin" and "traumatic brain injury."
RESULTS
The final quantitative analysis included 18 eligible articles corresponding to animal studies. The analysis revealed that curcumin significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β ( = 0.000), IL-6 ( = 0.002), and TNF-α ( = 0.000), across various concentrations, time points, and administration routes. Additionally, curcumin markedly enhanced the activity of oxidative stress markers such as SOD ( = 0.000), Sir2 ( = 0.000), GPx ( = 0.000), and Nrf2 ( = 0.000), while reducing MDA ( = 0.000), 4-HNE ( = 0.001), and oxyprotein levels ( = 0.024). Furthermore, curcumin improved cerebral edema ( = 0.000) and upregulated neuroprotective factors like synapsin I ( = 0.019), BDNF ( = 0.000), and CREB ( = 0.000), without reducing mNSS ( = 0.144). About autophagy and apoptosis, curcumin increased the activity of Beclin-1 ( = 0.000) and Bcl-2 ( = 0.000), while decreasing caspase-3 ( = 0.000), the apoptosis index ( = 0.000), and P62 ( = 0.002).
CONCLUSION
Curcumin supplementation positively affects traumatic brain injury (TBI) by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and promoting neuroprotection. It holds potential as a therapeutic agent for human TBI. However, this conclusion necessitates further substantiation through high-quality literature and additional randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/. The registration number of PROSPERO: CRD42023452685.
PubMed: 38798711
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1380353 -
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews Jul 2024H-Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is a non-invasive technique that can be used to quantify the concentrations of metabolites in the brain in vivo. MRS findings in... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
H-Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is a non-invasive technique that can be used to quantify the concentrations of metabolites in the brain in vivo. MRS findings in the context of autism are inconsistent and conflicting. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of MRS studies measuring glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), as well as brain metabolites involved in energy metabolism (glutamine, creatine), neural and glial integrity (e.g. n-acetyl aspartate (NAA), choline, myo-inositol) and oxidative stress (glutathione) in autism cohorts. Data were extracted and grouped by metabolite, brain region and several other factors before calculation of standardised effect sizes. Overall, we find significantly lower concentrations of GABA and NAA in autism, indicative of disruptions to the balance between excitation/inhibition within brain circuits, as well as neural integrity. Further analysis found these alterations are most pronounced in autistic children and in limbic brain regions relevant to autism phenotypes. Additionally, we show how study outcome varies due to demographic and methodological factors , emphasising the importance of conforming with standardised consensus study designs and transparent reporting.
Topics: Humans; Autistic Disorder; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; Brain; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; Glutamic Acid
PubMed: 38796123
DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105728 -
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy =... Jul 2024Central nervous system (CNS) disorders exhibit exceedingly intricate pathogenic mechanisms. Pragmatic and effective solutions remain elusive, significantly compromising... (Review)
Review
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders exhibit exceedingly intricate pathogenic mechanisms. Pragmatic and effective solutions remain elusive, significantly compromising human life and health. Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) participates in the regulation of multiple pathophysiological processes, including CNS disorders. Considering the widespread involvement of ATF4 in the pathological process of CNS disorders, the targeted regulation of ATF4 by plant-derived bioactive compounds (PDBCs) may become a viable strategy for the treatment of CNS disorders. However, the regulatory relationship between PDBCs and ATF4 remains incompletely understood. Here, we aimed to comprehensively review the studies on PDBCs targeting ATF4 to ameliorate CNS disorders, thereby offering novel directions and insights for the treatment of CNS disorders. A computerized search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases to identify preclinical experiments related to PDBCs targeting ATF4 for the treatment of CNS disorders. The search timeframe was from the inception of the databases to December 2023. Two assessors conducted searches using the keywords "ATF4," "Central Nervous System," "Neurological," "Alzheimer's disease," "Parkinson's Disease," "Stroke," "Spinal Cord Injury," "Glioblastoma," "Traumatic Brain Injury," and "Spinal Cord Injury." Overall, 31 studies were included, encompassing assessments of 27 PDBCs. Combining results from in vivo and in vitro studies, we observed that these PDBCs, via ATF4 modulation, prevent the deposition of amyloid-like fibers such as Aβ, tau, and α-synuclein. They regulate ERS, reduce the release of inflammatory factors, restore mitochondrial membrane integrity to prevent oxidative stress, regulate synaptic plasticity, modulate autophagy, and engage anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Consequently, they exert neuroprotective effects in CNS disorders. Numerous PDBCs targeting ATF4 have shown potential in facilitating the restoration of CNS functionality, thereby presenting expansive prospects for the treatment of such disorders. However, future endeavors necessitate high-quality, large-scale, and comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies to further validate this therapeutic potential.
Topics: Activating Transcription Factor 4; Humans; Central Nervous System Diseases; Animals; Phytochemicals; Neuroprotective Agents
PubMed: 38795641
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116811 -
Nutrients May 2024Consumption of nitrate-rich vegetables increases nitric oxide bioavailability, lowers blood pressure, and improves endothelial function. These effects could also...
Consumption of nitrate-rich vegetables increases nitric oxide bioavailability, lowers blood pressure, and improves endothelial function. These effects could also translate into reduced cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and mortality. This systematic review aimed to investigate the associations between habitual vegetable nitrate intake and CVD incidence and mortality. A secondary aim was to identify factors that moderate the relationship between vegetable nitrate intake and CVD incidence/mortality. Seven databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and APA PsycINFO) were searched from inception to 13 February 2023. Observational studies quantifying vegetable nitrate intake in participants aged 18+ years through self-reported dietary exposure and assessing incidence or mortality from CVD overall, or individual CVD subtypes, were eligible. Five studies including a total of 63,155 participants were included. There was an inverse association between vegetable nitrate intake and most reported CVD outcomes. Reported risk reductions tended to plateau at moderate intake, suggesting a possible ceiling effect. The risk of bias across all studies was low. The results of this systematic review suggest a potential role for vegetable nitrate in reducing CVD risk and mortality. Further randomised controlled trials are now required to corroborate these findings.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diet; Incidence; Nitrates; Risk Factors; Vegetables
PubMed: 38794749
DOI: 10.3390/nu16101511 -
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its... (Review)
Review
, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its high fructo-oligosaccharide and inulin content, as well as flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids. Roots can be used to produce flour, which is less perishable and can be applied in various industrial products. This systematic review focuses on the effects of yacon flour on metabolic parameters. PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were consulted, and PRISMA guidelines were followed in the selection of the studies. In total, 526 articles were found in the databases, and of these, only 28 full texts were eligible for inclusion. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven studies were finally included. The results showed that the use of yacon flour can reduce glycemia, HbA1c, advanced glycation ends, plasma lipids, body fat mass, body weight, and waist circumference and improve intestinal microbiota and the antioxidant status. Further exploration of the effects of yacon flour is warranted, and additional clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal daily consumption levels required to assist in improving metabolic parameters.
PubMed: 38794228
DOI: 10.3390/ph17050658 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) May 2024Heart failure (HF) remains a major medical and social problem. The NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and its active form, brain-type natriuretic peptide... (Review)
Review
Heart failure (HF) remains a major medical and social problem. The NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and its active form, brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), in a simple blood test are the gold-standard biomarkers for HF diagnosis. However, even good biomarkers such as natriuretic peptides fail to predict all the risks associated with HF due to the diversity of the mechanisms involved. The pathophysiology of HF is determined by numerous factors, including oxidative stress, inflammation, neuroendocrine activation, pathological angiogenesis, changes in apoptotic pathways, fibrosis and vascular remodeling. High readmission and mortality rates prompt a search for new markers for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of HF. Oxidative-stress-mediated inflammation plays a crucial role in the development of subsequent changes in the failing heart and provides a new insight into this complex mechanism. Oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers appear to be a promising diagnostic and prognostic tool in patients with HF. This systematic review provides an overview of the current knowledge about oxidative stress and inflammation parameters as markers of HF.
Topics: Humans; Oxidative Stress; Heart Failure; Inflammation; Biomarkers; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis
PubMed: 38792942
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050760 -
Brain Sciences Apr 2024The aim of this study was to review the current state of scientific evidence on the effect of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields stimulation (ELF-MFs) on stroke... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to review the current state of scientific evidence on the effect of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields stimulation (ELF-MFs) on stroke patients.
METHODS
A systematic review of PubMed, ScienceDirect, PeDro and Embase databases was conducted. Only articles published in English, involving adult participants and focusing on individuals who had experienced a stroke, specifically examining the impact of ELF-MFs on post-stroke patients and had well-defined criteria for inclusion and exclusion of participants, were included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies (QATQS).
RESULTS
A total of 71 studies were identified through database and reference lists' search, from which 9 were included in the final synthesis. All included studies showed a beneficial effect of ELF-MFs on stroke patients, however seven of the included studies were carried by the same research group. Improvements were observed in domains such as oxidative stress, inflammation, ischemic lesion size, functional status, depressive symptoms and cognitive abilities.
CONCLUSIONS
The available literature suggests a beneficial effect of ELF-MFs on post-stroke patients; however, the current data are too limited to broadly recommend the use of this method. Further research with improved methodological quality is necessary.
PubMed: 38790409
DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050430