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Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters Oct 2022Research on aging is growing as the elderly make up a greater share of the population, focusing on reversing and inhibiting the aging process. The exhaustion and...
BACKGROUND
Research on aging is growing as the elderly make up a greater share of the population, focusing on reversing and inhibiting the aging process. The exhaustion and senescence of stem cells are the fundamental drivers behind aging. β-Carotene has been depicted to have many biological functions, and we speculate that it may have an anti-aging effect.
METHODS
Firstly, the anti-aging property of β-carotene was investigated in vitro using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) induced by HO. The anti-aging effect was characterized using Western-bloting, confocal laser scanning microscopy, indirect immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. The anti-aging property was also tested in vivo using aged mice.
RESULTS
The in vitro experiment revealed that β-carotene could relieve the aging of MSCs, as evidenced by a series of aging marker molecules such as p16 and p21. β-Carotene appeared to inhibit aging by regulating the KAT7-P15 signaling axis. The in vivo experiment revealed that β-carotene treatment has significantly down-regulated the aging level of tissues and organs.
CONCLUSIONS
In this work, we explored the anti-aging effect of β-carotene in vivo and in vitro. The experimental results indicate that β-carotene may be an important potential anti-aging molecule, which can be used as a drug or in functional food to treat aging in the future.
Topics: Aging; Animals; Cell Proliferation; Cellular Senescence; Hydrogen Peroxide; Inflammation; Mice; Oxidative Stress; beta Carotene
PubMed: 36209059
DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00389-7 -
Food & Function Apr 2021In this study, β-carotene loaded oil-in-water emulsions were stabilized by complex interfaces composed of propylene glycol alginate (PGA), rhamnolipids (Rha), and zein...
In this study, β-carotene loaded oil-in-water emulsions were stabilized by complex interfaces composed of propylene glycol alginate (PGA), rhamnolipids (Rha), and zein colloidal particles (ZCPs). The influence of mixed biopolymer-surfactant, biopolymer-particle, surfactant-particle and biopolymer-surfactant-particle interfaces on the performance of the emulsions was investigated. The stability, microstructure, rheological properties, and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of the emulsions were controlled by regulating the adding sequence and mass ratio of the multiple stabilizers. The droplet size of the emulsion was in the range of 14-77 μm. After encapsulation into the emulsions stabilized by the complex interfaces, the photothermal stability of β-carotene were increased by 41.53% and 21.52%, respectively. The co-existence of particles, biopolymers, and surfactants could induce competitive displacement, multilayer deposition and an interparticle network at the interface. Compared with a single PGA- or Rha-stabilized emulsion, the complex interface-stabilized emulsion reduced the release of FFA by 28.06% and 26.16%, respectively. The interfacial composition of the emulsion and the delayed lipid digestion further affected the bioaccessibility of β-carotene in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The mixed biopolymer-particle-surfactant interface-stabilized emulsion could be incorporated in foods, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics for excellent stability, targeted nutrient delivery and controlled lipolysis.
Topics: Biological Availability; Biopolymers; Digestion; Drug Stability; Elasticity; Emulsions; Gastrointestinal Tract; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Particle Size; Pepsin A; Surface-Active Agents; Viscosity; Zein; beta Carotene
PubMed: 33877248
DOI: 10.1039/d0fo02975k -
Nutrients Nov 2013β-carotene is the most abundant provitamin A carotenoid in human diet and tissues. It exerts a number of beneficial functions in mammals, including humans, owing to its... (Review)
Review
β-carotene is the most abundant provitamin A carotenoid in human diet and tissues. It exerts a number of beneficial functions in mammals, including humans, owing to its ability to generate vitamin A as well as to emerging crucial signaling functions of its metabolites. Even though β-carotene is generally considered a safer form of vitamin A due to its highly regulated intestinal absorption, detrimental effects have also been ascribed to its intake, at least under specific circumstances. A better understanding of the metabolism of β-carotene is still needed to unequivocally discriminate the conditions under which it may exert beneficial or detrimental effects on human health and thus to enable the formulation of dietary recommendations adequate for different groups of individuals and populations worldwide. Here we provide a general overview of the metabolism of this vitamin A precursor in mammals with the aim of identifying the gaps in knowledge that call for immediate attention. We highlight the main questions that remain to be answered in regards to the cleavage, uptake, extracellular and intracellular transport of β-carotene as well as the interactions between the metabolism of β-carotene and that of other macronutrients such as lipids.
Topics: Animals; Diet; Dioxygenases; Humans; Intestinal Absorption; Mammals; Recommended Dietary Allowances; Vitamin A; beta Carotene; beta-Carotene 15,15'-Monooxygenase
PubMed: 24288025
DOI: 10.3390/nu5124849 -
The Journal of Nutrition Feb 2021Descriptive and quantitative information on β-carotene whole-body kinetics in humans is limited.
BACKGROUND
Descriptive and quantitative information on β-carotene whole-body kinetics in humans is limited.
OBJECTIVES
Our objective was to advance the development of a physiologically based, working hypothesis compartmental model describing the metabolism of β-carotene and β-carotene-derived retinol.
METHODS
We used model-based compartmental analysis (Simulation, Analysis and Modeling software) to analyze previously published data on plasma kinetics of [2H8]β-carotene, [2H4]β-carotene-derived retinol, and [2H8]retinyl acetate-derived retinol in healthy, older US adults (3 female, 2 male; 50-68 y); subjects were studied for 56 d after consuming doses of 11 μmol [2H8]β-carotene and, 3 d later, 9 μmol [2H8]retinyl acetate in oil.
RESULTS
We developed a complex model for labeled β-carotene and β-carotene-derived retinol, as well as preformed vitamin A, using simulations to augment observed data during model calibration. The model predicts that mean (range) β-carotene absorption (bioavailability) was 9.5% (5.2-14%) and bioefficacy was 7.3% (3.6-14%). Of the absorbed β-carotene, 41% (25-58%) was packaged intact in chylomicrons and the balance was converted to retinol, with 58% (42-75%) transported as retinyl esters in chylomicrons and 0-2% by retinol-binding protein. Most (95%) chylomicron β-carotene was cleared by the liver. Later data revealed differences in the metabolism of retinyl acetate- versus β-carotene-derived retinol; data required that both β-carotene and derived retinol be recycled from extrahepatic tissues (e.g. adipose) in HDL. Of total bioconversion [73% (47-99%)], 82% occurred in the intestine, 17% in the liver, and 0.83% in other tissues.
CONCLUSIONS
Our model advances knowledge about whole-body β-carotene metabolism in healthy adults, including the kinetics of transport in all lipoprotein species, and suggests hypotheses to be tested in future studies, such as the possibility that retinol derived from hepatic conversion over a long period of time might contribute to plasma retinol homeostasis and total body vitamin A stores.
Topics: Aged; Aging; Biological Availability; Computer Simulation; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Vitamin A; beta Carotene
PubMed: 33188397
DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxaa306 -
The New Phytologist Sep 2019Stressful environmental conditions lead to the production of reactive oxygen species in the chloroplasts, due to limited photosynthesis and enhanced excitation pressure... (Review)
Review
Stressful environmental conditions lead to the production of reactive oxygen species in the chloroplasts, due to limited photosynthesis and enhanced excitation pressure on the photosystems. Among these reactive species, singlet oxygen ( O ), which is generated at the level of the PSII reaction center, is very reactive, readily oxidizing macromolecules in its immediate surroundings, and it has been identified as the principal cause of photooxidative damage in plant leaves. The two β-carotene molecules present in the PSII reaction center are prime targets of O oxidation, leading to the formation of various oxidized derivatives. Plants have evolved sensing mechanisms for those PSII-generated metabolites, which regulate gene expression, putting in place defense mechanisms and alleviating the effects of PSII-damaging conditions. A new picture is thus emerging which places PSII as a sensor and transducer in plant stress resilience through its capacity to generate signaling metabolites under excess light energy. This review summarizes new advances in the characterization of the apocarotenoids involved in the PSII-mediated stress response and of the pathways elicited by these molecules, among which is the xenobiotic detoxification.
Topics: Adaptation, Physiological; Oxidation-Reduction; Photosynthesis; Photosystem II Protein Complex; Stress, Physiological; beta Carotene
PubMed: 31090944
DOI: 10.1111/nph.15924 -
Zeitschrift Fur Naturforschung. C,... 2003New and known structural and functional insights in the role of beta-carotene and of alpha-tocopherol in photosytem II are reviewed. A concept is presented connecting... (Review)
Review
New and known structural and functional insights in the role of beta-carotene and of alpha-tocopherol in photosytem II are reviewed. A concept is presented connecting the failure of P680 triplet quenching by beta-carotene with the formation of singlet oxygen and its scavenging in the turnover of the D1 protein and by tocopherol in the maintenance of PS II structure and function.
Topics: Photosynthesis; Photosystem II Protein Complex; Tocopherols; beta Carotene
PubMed: 14577617
DOI: 10.1515/znc-2003-9-1001 -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.) Feb 1999
Topics: Dietary Supplements; Female; Humans; Nepal; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Vitamin A; Women's Health; beta Carotene
PubMed: 10037611
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.318.7183.551 -
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry : PPB Nov 2021Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a native plant species from South America that is very appreciated for its oleaginous seeds in the agri-food field. Chia seeds are natural...
Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a native plant species from South America that is very appreciated for its oleaginous seeds in the agri-food field. Chia seeds are natural sources of many bioactive compounds which provide benefits to human health. Nevertheless, chia sprouts have better nutritional properties than seeds, such as antioxidants, essential amino acids, and phenolic compounds. Among all these beneficial compounds, β-carotene has not been studied in chia sprouts. β-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, which contributes to maintaining our health status. In this study, to improve β-carotene content in chia sprouts, some plant growth regulators (abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate and methyl salicylate) were applied exogenously to germinating chia seeds. Gibberellins A4/A7 and cytokinin 6-benzyladenine (Promalin®) were also applied, combined with the other regulators, to antagonize a possible inhibition in the germination. Seeds were grown in darkness for 4 days, then seeds were exposed to a short light stimulus (30') and finally to a continued light stimulus (48h). β-carotene, xanthophylls, chlorophylls, de-epoxidation status of xanthophyll cycle (DPS), germination rate, and sprouts fresh weight were analysed. The results show that sprouts treated with methyl salicylate in-creased 2,35 fold their β-carotene content when they were exposed to light for 30'+48h. Sprouts fresh weight and germination were not affected by methyl salicylate. Although more research is needed before industrial application, it is concluded that methyl salicylate can be used to improve β-carotene contents in chia sprouts.
Topics: Biofortification; Plant Growth Regulators; Salvia; Salvia hispanica; beta Carotene
PubMed: 34715565
DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2021.10.026 -
Biomolecules Aug 2022Prolonged elevated oxidative stress (OS) possesses negative effect on cell structure and functioning, and is associated with the development of numerous disorders.... (Review)
Review
The Effect of β-Carotene, Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid as Anti-Oxidant Molecules on Human and Animal In Vitro/In Vivo Studies: A Review of Research Design and Analytical Techniques Used.
Prolonged elevated oxidative stress (OS) possesses negative effect on cell structure and functioning, and is associated with the development of numerous disorders. Naturally occurred anti-oxidant compounds reduce the oxidative stress in living organisms. In this review, antioxidant properties of β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid are presented based on in vitro, in vivo and populational studies. Firstly, environmental factors contributing to the OS occurrence and intracellular sources of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation, as well as ROS-mediated cellular structure degradation, are introduced. Secondly, enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanism of anti-oxidant defence against OS development, is presented. Furthermore, ROS-preventing mechanisms and effectiveness of β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid as anti-oxidants are summarized, based on studies where different ROS-generating (oxidizing) agents are used. Oxidative stress biomarkers, as indicators on OS level and prevention by anti-oxidant supplementation, are presented with a focus on the methods (spectrophotometric, fluorometric, chromatographic, immuno-enzymatic) of their detection. Finally, the application of Raman spectroscopy and imaging as a tool for monitoring the effect of anti-oxidant (β-carotene, ascorbic acid) on cell structure and metabolism, is proposed. Literature data gathered suggest that β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid possess potential to mitigate oxidative stress in various biological systems. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy and imaging can be a valuable technique to study the effect of oxidative stress and anti-oxidant molecules in cell studies.
Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Oxidants; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Research Design; Tocopherols; beta Carotene
PubMed: 36008981
DOI: 10.3390/biom12081087 -
Marker discovery and associations with β-carotene content in Indian dairy cattle and buffalo breeds.Journal of Dairy Science Nov 2019Vitamin A is essential for human health, but current intake levels in many developing countries such as India are too low due to malnutrition. According to the World...
Vitamin A is essential for human health, but current intake levels in many developing countries such as India are too low due to malnutrition. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 250 million preschool children are vitamin A deficient globally. This number excludes pregnant women and nursing mothers, who are particularly vulnerable. Efforts to improve access to vitamin A are key because supplementation can reduce mortality rates in young children in developing countries by around 23%. Three key genes, BCMO1, BCO2, and SCARB1, have been shown to be associated with the amount of β-carotene (BC) in milk. Whole-genome sequencing reads from the coordinates of these 3 genes in 202 non-Indian cattle (141 Bos taurus, 61 Bos indicus) and 35 non-Indian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) animals from several breeds were collected from data repositories. The number of SNP detected in the coding regions of these 3 genes ranged from 16 to 26 in the 3 species, with 5 overlapping SNP between B. taurus and B. indicus. All these SNP together with 2 SNP in the upstream part of the gene but already present in dbSNP (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/projects/SNP/) were used to build a custom Sequenom array. Blood for DNA and milk samples for BC were obtained from 2,291 Indian cows of 5 different breeds (Gir, Holstein cross, Jersey Cross, Tharparkar, and Sahiwal) and 2,242 Indian buffaloes (Jafarabadi, Murrah, Pandharpuri, and Surti breeds). The DNA was extracted and genotyped with the Sequenom array. For each individual breed and the combined breeds, SNP with an association that had a P-value <0.3 in the first round of linear analysis were included in a second step of regression analyses to determine allele substitution effects to increase the content of BC in milk. Additionally, an F-test for all SNP within gene was performed with the objective of determining if overall the gene had a significant effect on the content of BC in milk. The analyses were repeated using a Bayesian approach to compare and validate the previous frequentist results. Multiple significant SNP were found using both methodologies with allele substitution effects ranging from 6.21 (3.13) to 9.10 (5.43) µg of BC per 100 mL of milk. Total gene effects exceeded the mean BC value for all breeds with both analysis approaches. The custom panel designed for genes related to BC production demonstrated applicability in genotyping of cattle and buffalo in India and may be used for cattle or buffalo from other developing countries. Moreover, the recommendation of selection for significant specific alleles of some gene markers provides a route to effectively increase the BC content in milk in the Indian cattle and buffalo populations.
Topics: Alleles; Animals; Buffaloes; Cattle; Female; Genetic Markers; Genotype; India; Milk; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Pregnancy; Species Specificity; beta Carotene
PubMed: 31477308
DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16361