Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107109
Gabriela Ibieta , Jimena Ortiz-Sempértegui , J. Mauricio Peñarrieta , Javier A. Linares-Pastén
The development of bioactive peptides is of great interest in the food and pharmaceutical industries because of their positive impact on health. However, peptide's bioavailability depends on their stability along the gastrointestinal tract and their ability to be transported to targets located in peripheral organs, whose mechanisms are still poorly understood. However, several studies, mainly in vitro and in vivo, have shown antimicrobial, antitumoral, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidative effects. Indeed, some bioactive peptides are already on the global market. One of the current and future perspectives includes the development of novel bioactive peptides from food plant proteins. In this regard, some grains and seeds, such as quinoa, maize, cañihua and tarwi, which were domesticated in the Andes, are attracting global interest due to their high nutritional value and potential as a source of novel bioactive peptides. Tarwi stands out for its high protein content compared to other legumes.
{"title":"Bioactive peptides as functional food ingredients: Production, mechanisms of action, market trends, and future perspectives with emphasis on andean crops","authors":"Gabriela Ibieta , Jimena Ortiz-Sempértegui , J. Mauricio Peñarrieta , Javier A. Linares-Pastén","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107109","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107109","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The development of bioactive peptides is of great interest in the food and pharmaceutical industries because of their positive impact on health. However, peptide's bioavailability depends on their stability along the gastrointestinal tract and their ability to be transported to targets located in peripheral organs, whose mechanisms are still poorly understood. However, several studies, mainly <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em>, have shown antimicrobial, antitumoral, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidative effects. Indeed, some bioactive peptides are already on the global market. One of the current and future perspectives includes the development of novel bioactive peptides from food plant proteins. In this regard, some grains and seeds, such as quinoa, maize, cañihua and tarwi, which were domesticated in the Andes, are attracting global interest due to their high nutritional value and potential as a source of novel bioactive peptides. Tarwi stands out for its high protein content compared to other legumes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107109"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145615210","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107121
Xianglong Ou , Yi Dai , Ting Huang , Huaqing Ou , Lin Tang , Zhong Li , Le Wang , Bangyuan Wu , Tingting Fang , Shibin Yuan
Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an abrupt inflammation of the pancreas, frequently associated with intestinal barrier injury. Chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) possess anti-inflammatory effects observed in multiple disease contexts. The protective effect of COS (200 mg/kg) was evaluated in a mouse model of SAP induced via intraperitoneal injection of cerulein (100 μg/kg) and lipopolysaccharide (5 mg/kg) in this study. The results shown that COS reduced serum amylase and lipase levels and alleviated pancreatic and ileal pathological damage in SAP mice. COS effectively diminished pancreatic and ileal pro-inflammatory cytokines levels (MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), ileal cell apoptosis and intestinal permeability, and bacterial translocation as well. Moreover, COS administration restored the intestinal epithelial junction proteins expression (Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1) and enhanced Paneth cell functional recovery. Mechanically, COS alleviated SAP-associated inflammatory response by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB/NRLP3 pathway, which suggest that COS intervention may be a potential strategy to protect against SAP.
{"title":"Chitosan oligosaccharides ameliorate severe acute pancreatitis-associated intestinal mucosal injury via the modulation of TLR4/NF-κB/NRLP3 pathway","authors":"Xianglong Ou , Yi Dai , Ting Huang , Huaqing Ou , Lin Tang , Zhong Li , Le Wang , Bangyuan Wu , Tingting Fang , Shibin Yuan","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107121","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107121","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an abrupt inflammation of the pancreas, frequently associated with intestinal barrier injury. Chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) possess anti-inflammatory effects observed in multiple disease contexts. The protective effect of COS (200 mg/kg) was evaluated in a mouse model of SAP induced via intraperitoneal injection of cerulein (100 μg/kg) and lipopolysaccharide (5 mg/kg) in this study. The results shown that COS reduced serum amylase and lipase levels and alleviated pancreatic and ileal pathological damage in SAP mice. COS effectively diminished pancreatic and ileal pro-inflammatory cytokines levels (MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), ileal cell apoptosis and intestinal permeability, and bacterial translocation as well. Moreover, COS administration restored the intestinal epithelial junction proteins expression (Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1) and enhanced Paneth cell functional recovery. Mechanically, COS alleviated SAP-associated inflammatory response by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB/NRLP3 pathway, which suggest that COS intervention may be a potential strategy to protect against SAP.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107121"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145733526","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107114
Ryan S. Green , Tyler Roy , Daniela Diaz-Infante Morales , Claire Morrow , Ryan Neilson , Eric M. Schott , Mark R. Charbonneau , Alicia E. Ballok , Katherine J. Motyl , Gerardo V. Toledo
Over half of women above age 50 are affected by osteopenia or osteoporosis, bone-loss conditions influenced by estrogen decline, inflammation, and the intestinal microbiota. Probiotic-based interventions have shown promise in preclinical osteoporosis models. In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of postmenopausal women, dietary intervention with SBD111, a synbiotic medical food combining plant-derived microbes and prebiotic fibers, reduced bone loss in women with osteopenia, elevated body mass index (BMI), and/or elevated body fat.
To investigate potential mechanisms underlying these outcomes, we examined intestinal epithelial, immune, and osteoclast responses to SBD111 in vitro. SBD111 administration improved intestinal barrier integrity, reduced immune cell cytokine secretion, and inhibited osteoclast activity. These effects align with clinically observed reductions in severe gastrointestinal symptoms and bone resorption markers. Together, these findings suggest that SBD111 modulates the gut–bone axis via barrier, immune, and antiresorptive pathways, supporting its role in maintaining skeletal health in postmenopausal women.
{"title":"A synbiotic medical food improves gut barrier function, reduces immune responses, and inhibits osteoclast activity in models of postmenopausal bone loss aligned with clinical outcomes","authors":"Ryan S. Green , Tyler Roy , Daniela Diaz-Infante Morales , Claire Morrow , Ryan Neilson , Eric M. Schott , Mark R. Charbonneau , Alicia E. Ballok , Katherine J. Motyl , Gerardo V. Toledo","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107114","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107114","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Over half of women above age 50 are affected by osteopenia or osteoporosis, bone-loss conditions influenced by estrogen decline, inflammation, and the intestinal microbiota. Probiotic-based interventions have shown promise in preclinical osteoporosis models. In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of postmenopausal women, dietary intervention with SBD111, a synbiotic medical food combining plant-derived microbes and prebiotic fibers, reduced bone loss in women with osteopenia, elevated body mass index (BMI), and/or elevated body fat.</div><div>To investigate potential mechanisms underlying these outcomes, we examined intestinal epithelial, immune, and osteoclast responses to SBD111 in vitro. SBD111 administration improved intestinal barrier integrity, reduced immune cell cytokine secretion, and inhibited osteoclast activity. These effects align with clinically observed reductions in severe gastrointestinal symptoms and bone resorption markers. Together, these findings suggest that SBD111 modulates the gut–bone axis via barrier, immune, and antiresorptive pathways, supporting its role in maintaining skeletal health in postmenopausal women.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107114"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145615206","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107117
Sulhee Lee , Sang-Pil Choi , Seul Ki Lim , Namhee Kim , Young Seo Jang , Daye Mun , Moon Gyu Chung , Kyeong Soon Kim , Na-Kyoung Lee , Hyun-Dong Paik , Hak-Jong Choi , Min-Sung Kwon , Young Joon Oh
In this study, we investigated the antidepressant effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KU210152 in a mouse model. Mice were orally administered L. plantarum KU210152 for 7 weeks, and depression was induced during the last 3 weeks by daily restraint of 4 h. Administration of L. plantarum KU210152 significantly alleviated depressive-like behaviors than the restraint stress group. Additionally, it markedly increased colonic Tph-1 expression and fecal acetic acid levels. The gut microbiome, antidepressant effects, gene expression, and short-chain fatty acid production were positively correlated with Clostridium_g4, Monoglobus, and Ruminococcus. Fecal microbiota transplantation was performed in germ-free mice to examine the effect of L. plantarum KU210152 on depressive-like behavior and Tph-1 expression. Although L. plantarum KU210152 did not significantly mitigate depressive-like behavior, it increased Tph-1 expression. Therefore, probiotics, especially L. plantarum KU210152, have antidepressant effects in a mouse model of depression, highlighting their potential as adjunct therapy options for humans.
{"title":"Gut microbiota modulation by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KU210152 mediates antidepressant effects in a restraint stress-induced depression mouse model","authors":"Sulhee Lee , Sang-Pil Choi , Seul Ki Lim , Namhee Kim , Young Seo Jang , Daye Mun , Moon Gyu Chung , Kyeong Soon Kim , Na-Kyoung Lee , Hyun-Dong Paik , Hak-Jong Choi , Min-Sung Kwon , Young Joon Oh","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107117","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107117","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we investigated the antidepressant effects of <em>Lactiplantibacillus plantarum</em> KU210152 in a mouse model. Mice were orally administered <em>L. plantarum</em> KU210152 for 7 weeks, and depression was induced during the last 3 weeks by daily restraint of 4 h. Administration of <em>L. plantarum</em> KU210152 significantly alleviated depressive-like behaviors than the restraint stress group. Additionally, it markedly increased colonic <em>Tph-1</em> expression and fecal acetic acid levels. The gut microbiome, antidepressant effects, gene expression, and short-chain fatty acid production were positively correlated with <em>Clostridium_g4</em>, <em>Monoglobus</em>, <em>and Ruminococcus</em>. Fecal microbiota transplantation was performed in germ-free mice to examine the effect of <em>L. plantarum</em> KU210152 on depressive-like behavior and <em>Tph-1</em> expression. Although <em>L. plantarum</em> KU210152 did not significantly mitigate depressive-like behavior, it increased <em>Tph-1</em> expression. Therefore, probiotics, especially <em>L. plantarum</em> KU210152, have antidepressant effects in a mouse model of depression, highlighting their potential as adjunct therapy options for humans.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107117"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145681312","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Melatonin, a key modulator of circadian rhythms, has recently attracted growing attention for its multifunctional health benefits. This study examined the effects of tryptophan fortification and different yogurt bases (cow milk vs. soy) on melatonin, serotonin, and tryptophan levels, as well as antioxidant, ACE inhibitory, physicochemical, and microbiological properties during 28 days of refrigerated storage. Yogurt samples were fermented with a mixed starter culture containing S. thermophilus, L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, L. acidophilus, and B. animalis subsp. lactis. Results showed that tryptophan fortification at 1.5 % w/v enhanced melatonin and serotonin biosynthesis, with soy yogurt exhibiting nearly twice the melatonin content of milk yogurt (5.62 vs. 2.87 ng/g DM). Soy yogurt also demonstrated greater antioxidant activity, ACE inhibitory potential (95.19 %), and higher lactic acid bacteria (LAB) viability (8.5 × 107 CFU/g) throughout storage. These findings highlight a synergistic effect between tryptophan enrichment and soy matrix composition, offering a natural, clean-label strategy to enhance indoleamine synthesis and bioactive stability. This study provides novel insights into developing plant-based, melatonin-rich functional yogurt to support metabolic balance and circadian health.
{"title":"Fortifying yogurt with tryptophan enhances melatonin and health-promoting properties: a comparative study of cow milk and soy bases","authors":"Treechada Utaida , Annisa Fitriati , Pariyaporn Itsaranuwat , Anuchita Moongngarm","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107124","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107124","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Melatonin, a key modulator of circadian rhythms, has recently attracted growing attention for its multifunctional health benefits. This study examined the effects of tryptophan fortification and different yogurt bases (cow milk vs. soy) on melatonin, serotonin, and tryptophan levels, as well as antioxidant, ACE inhibitory, physicochemical, and microbiological properties during 28 days of refrigerated storage. Yogurt samples were fermented with a mixed starter culture containing <em>S. thermophilus</em>, <em>L. delbrueckii</em> subsp. <em>bulgaricus</em>, <em>L. acidophilus</em>, and <em>B. animalis</em> subsp. <em>lactis</em>. Results showed that tryptophan fortification at 1.5 % <em>w</em>/<em>v</em> enhanced melatonin and serotonin biosynthesis, with soy yogurt exhibiting nearly twice the melatonin content of milk yogurt (5.62 vs. 2.87 ng/g DM). Soy yogurt also demonstrated greater antioxidant activity, ACE inhibitory potential (95.19 %), and higher lactic acid bacteria (LAB) viability (8.5 × 10<sup>7</sup> CFU/g) throughout storage. These findings highlight a synergistic effect between tryptophan enrichment and soy matrix composition, offering a natural, clean-label strategy to enhance indoleamine synthesis and bioactive stability. This study provides novel insights into developing plant-based, melatonin-rich functional yogurt to support metabolic balance and circadian health.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107124"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145681313","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) depletion contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, cognitive and physical decline with aging, partly driven by upregulated cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) activity. This 60-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated LN22199, a polyphenol-rich blend of Punica granatum and Tagetes erecta, alone or with nicotinamide riboside (NR), in 140 healthy aging adults (age: 60.09 ± 4.20 years; male: female 59 %: 41 %). Participants received either a placebo, NR (500 mg), LN22199 (1000 mg), or LN22199 (500 mg) + NR (500 mg). Outcomes included NAD+ levels, CD38 activity, inflammatory biomarkers, cognitive function, physical performance, and quality-of-life measures. LN22199 increased blood NAD+ levels by 26.48 %, NR by 22.69 %, and their combination by 31.76 % (all p < 0.001 vs. baseline). CD38 activity decreased significantly with LN22199 alone (17.98 % reduction, p = 0.0025 vs. baseline; p = 0.0344 vs. placebo), while NR alone showed minimal change. Serum growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) levels declined by 15.07 % (LN22199; p = 0.0001), 11.36 % (NR; p = 0.0033), and 17.83 % (combination; p < 0.0001) vs. baseline. The combination group achieved the greatest improvements in functional outcomes, including a 9.94 % increase in six-minute walk distance and a 16.45 % improvement in Mini-Mental State Examination 2 cognitive scores. All treatments were well tolerated with no serious adverse events reported. LN22199, combined with NR, enhances NAD+ homeostasis, mitigates inflammation, and improves cognitive and physical function, representing a promising strategy for healthy aging.
烟酰胺腺嘌呤二核苷酸（NAD+）缺失会导致线粒体功能障碍、炎症、认知和身体衰老，部分原因是CD38活性上调。这项为期60天的随机、双盲、安慰剂对照试验对140名健康老年人（年龄：60.09±4.20岁；男性：女性59%:41%）的LN22199进行了评估。LN22199是一种富含多酚的石榴和万寿菊混合物，单独使用或与烟酰胺核苷（NR）联合使用。参与者接受安慰剂、NR（500毫克）、LN22199（1000毫克）或LN22199（500毫克）+ NR（500毫克）。结果包括NAD+水平、CD38活性、炎症生物标志物、认知功能、身体表现和生活质量指标。LN22199使血液中NAD+水平升高26.48%，NR升高22.69%，两者联合升高31.76%（与基线相比p <； 0.001）。单独使用LN22199组CD38活性显著降低（与基线相比降低17.98%,p = 0.0025；与安慰剂相比p = 0.0344），而单独使用NR组变化最小。血清生长/分化因子15 （GDF-15）水平与基线相比下降了15.07% （LN22199; p = 0.0001）、11.36% （NR; p = 0.0033）和17.83%（联合；p < 0.0001）。联合治疗组在功能预后方面取得了最大的改善，包括6分钟步行距离增加了9.94%，迷你精神状态检查2认知评分提高了16.45%。所有治疗均耐受良好，无严重不良事件报道。LN22199联合NR可增强NAD+体内平衡，减轻炎症，改善认知和身体功能，是一种很有前景的健康衰老策略。
{"title":"Comparative efficacy of a standardized herbal composition LN22199, nicotinamide riboside, and their combination on NAD+ metabolism in healthy aging adults","authors":"Varun Kumar Bandi , Vittal Kumar Chundru , Aruna Yarasani , Ramesh Gajula , Vinay Kumar Pulipaka , Thabish Syed","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107115","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107115","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD<sup>+</sup>) depletion contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, cognitive and physical decline with aging, partly driven by upregulated cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) activity. This 60-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated LN22199, a polyphenol-rich blend of <em>Punica granatum</em> and <em>Tagetes erecta</em>, alone or with nicotinamide riboside (NR), in 140 healthy aging adults (age: 60.09 ± 4.20 years; male: female 59 %: 41 %). Participants received either a placebo, NR (500 mg), LN22199 (1000 mg), or LN22199 (500 mg) + NR (500 mg). Outcomes included NAD<sup>+</sup> levels, CD38 activity, inflammatory biomarkers, cognitive function, physical performance, and quality-of-life measures. LN22199 increased blood NAD<sup>+</sup> levels by 26.48 %, NR by 22.69 %, and their combination by 31.76 % (all <em>p</em> < 0.001 vs. baseline). CD38 activity decreased significantly with LN22199 alone (17.98 % reduction, <em>p</em> = 0.0025 vs. baseline; <em>p</em> = 0.0344 vs. placebo), while NR alone showed minimal change. Serum growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) levels declined by 15.07 % (LN22199; <em>p</em> = 0.0001), 11.36 % (NR; <em>p</em> = 0.0033), and 17.83 % (combination; <em>p</em> < 0.0001) vs. baseline. The combination group achieved the greatest improvements in functional outcomes, including a 9.94 % increase in six-minute walk distance and a 16.45 % improvement in Mini-Mental State Examination 2 cognitive scores. All treatments were well tolerated with no serious adverse events reported. LN22199, combined with NR, enhances NAD<sup>+</sup> homeostasis, mitigates inflammation, and improves cognitive and physical function, representing a promising strategy for healthy aging.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107115"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145615207","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107120
So Yeon Kim , Yoo Kyong Han , Yun Mi Lee , Kyuhyung Jo , Dong-Seon Kim
This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and barrier-protective effects of Spiraea prunifolia var. simpliciflora ethanol extract (SPSE) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. SPSE suppressed nitric oxide production and down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) by inhibiting phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK. In vivo, SPSE alleviated weight loss, colon shortening, and histological damage, accompanied by reduced cytokine expression and MAPK activation in colonic tissue. Moreover, SPSE restored epithelial tight junction proteins, including ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, thereby preserving intestinal barrier integrity. Molecular docking suggested that caffeoyl-type constituents of SPSE interact with transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), an upstream regulator of MAPK signalling. These findings demonstrate that SPSE mitigates experimental colitis by modulating MAPK signalling and maintaining epithelial integrity, supporting its potential as a functional food ingredient for intestinal health.
{"title":"Spiraea prunifolia var. simpliciflora ethanol extract alleviates DSS-induced colitis by modulating MAPK signalling and preserving intestinal barrier integrity","authors":"So Yeon Kim , Yoo Kyong Han , Yun Mi Lee , Kyuhyung Jo , Dong-Seon Kim","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107120","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107120","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and barrier-protective effects of <em>Spiraea prunifolia</em> var. <em>simpliciflora</em> ethanol extract (SPSE) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. SPSE suppressed nitric oxide production and down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) by inhibiting phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK. In vivo, SPSE alleviated weight loss, colon shortening, and histological damage, accompanied by reduced cytokine expression and MAPK activation in colonic tissue. Moreover, SPSE restored epithelial tight junction proteins, including ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, thereby preserving intestinal barrier integrity. Molecular docking suggested that caffeoyl-type constituents of SPSE interact with transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), an upstream regulator of MAPK signalling. These findings demonstrate that SPSE mitigates experimental colitis by modulating MAPK signalling and maintaining epithelial integrity, supporting its potential as a functional food ingredient for intestinal health.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107120"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145733527","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107107
Tae-Woong Song , Geun-Hee Cho , Young-Jae Heo , Hyun-Woo Oh , Su-Jong Kim , Shuai Wei , Sung-Phil Kim , Ok-Hwan Lee , Sun-Il Choi
This study investigated the therapeutic potential of bioprocessed black rice bran extract (Hemicellan) in sarcopenic obesity using palmitic acid (PA)-induced C2C12 myotubes and high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6N mice. In vitro, hemicellan significantly improved cell viability and myotube formation, while in vivo it alleviated muscle mass and strength loss. Mechanistic analyses revealed that hemicellan promoted mitochondrial biogenesis via AMPKα and SIRT1 activation, enhanced protein synthesis through the Akt/mTOR pathway, and suppressed proteolysis by inhibiting the FoxO3a/MuRF1/Atrogin-1 axis. Furthermore, hemicellan modulated obesity-associated regulators, including PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FAS, and downregulated PKCθ and PKCζ signaling, thereby restoring muscle metabolic homeostasis. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that hemicellan effectively regulates the pathological mechanisms underlying sarcopenic obesity and holds promise as a natural functional ingredient for muscle health. Its potential application in precision nutraceuticals provides a novel strategy for preventing or ameliorating sarcopenic obesity-related metabolic dysfunctions.
{"title":"Bioprocessed black rice bran extract (Hemicellan) ameliorates sarcopenic obesity in palmitate-induced C2C12 myotubes and high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6N mice","authors":"Tae-Woong Song , Geun-Hee Cho , Young-Jae Heo , Hyun-Woo Oh , Su-Jong Kim , Shuai Wei , Sung-Phil Kim , Ok-Hwan Lee , Sun-Il Choi","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107107","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107107","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigated the therapeutic potential of bioprocessed black rice bran extract (Hemicellan) in sarcopenic obesity using palmitic acid (PA)-induced C2C12 myotubes and high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6N mice. <em>In vitro</em>, hemicellan significantly improved cell viability and myotube formation, while <em>in vivo</em> it alleviated muscle mass and strength loss. Mechanistic analyses revealed that hemicellan promoted mitochondrial biogenesis <em>via</em> AMPKα and SIRT1 activation, enhanced protein synthesis through the Akt/mTOR pathway, and suppressed proteolysis by inhibiting the FoxO3a/MuRF1/Atrogin-1 axis. Furthermore, hemicellan modulated obesity-associated regulators, including PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FAS, and downregulated PKCθ and PKCζ signaling, thereby restoring muscle metabolic homeostasis. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that hemicellan effectively regulates the pathological mechanisms underlying sarcopenic obesity and holds promise as a natural functional ingredient for muscle health. Its potential application in precision nutraceuticals provides a novel strategy for preventing or ameliorating sarcopenic obesity-related metabolic dysfunctions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107107"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145615209","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107111
Mingming Bao , Dezhi Yang , Qiburi Qiburi , Meng He , Temuqile Temuqile , Huricha Baigude
Nigella sativa, Origanum vulgare, and Malus asiatica are traditionally used for gastrointestinal and metabolic health. A polyherbal formulation combining these herbs (NOM) has been employed as a folk remedy for diabetes, yet its efficacy and toxicity remain underexplored. This study identified bioactive compounds in NOM via UPLC-qTOF MS and assessed antidiabetic effects and cytotoxicity in vitro using STZ-treated INS-1 cells and in vivo using an STZ-induced type 2 diabetic rat model treated with NOM (200 mg/kg, orally) for 4 weeks. NOM significantly reduced blood glucose levels and mitigated cytotoxicity associated with black seed extract, both in vitro and in vivo, without evident toxicity (as assessed by body weight, organ indices, and serum biochemistry) at high doses in mice. Gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) indicated regulation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway as a potential mechanism. Histopathology supported these findings. Overall, NOM demonstrated effective glucose-lowering potential with reduced toxicity, highlighting the synergistic benefits of combining medicinal herbs.
{"title":"Antidiabetic effects of a polyherbal formulation of Nigella sativa, Origanum vulgare, and Malus asiatica in STZ-induced type 2 diabetic rats","authors":"Mingming Bao , Dezhi Yang , Qiburi Qiburi , Meng He , Temuqile Temuqile , Huricha Baigude","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107111","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107111","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Nigella sativa</em>, <em>Origanum vulgare</em>, and <em>Malus asiatica</em> are traditionally used for gastrointestinal and metabolic health. A polyherbal formulation combining these herbs (NOM) has been employed as a folk remedy for diabetes, yet its efficacy and toxicity remain underexplored. This study identified bioactive compounds in NOM via UPLC-qTOF MS and assessed antidiabetic effects and cytotoxicity in vitro using STZ-treated INS-1 cells and in vivo using an STZ-induced type 2 diabetic rat model treated with NOM (200 mg/kg, orally) for 4 weeks. NOM significantly reduced blood glucose levels and mitigated cytotoxicity associated with black seed extract, both in vitro and in vivo, without evident toxicity (as assessed by body weight, organ indices, and serum biochemistry) at high doses in mice. Gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) indicated regulation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway as a potential mechanism. Histopathology supported these findings. Overall, NOM demonstrated effective glucose-lowering potential with reduced toxicity, highlighting the synergistic benefits of combining medicinal herbs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107111"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145615211","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116
Nevin Sanlier , Ezgi Nur Cinar
Black aronia or chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) is a shrub plant of the family Rosaceae. Its fresh fruits are rarely consumed due to their bitter taste from high polyphenol content. However, thanks to bioactive components such as proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, flavonols, and flavanols, black aronia has positive effects on health and chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. It has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers. Compared to other berries, it has higher total polyphenol and anthocyanin content and stronger antioxidant capacity. Thus, it may protect against some cancers and slow aging by reducing cellular damage. The juice, pomace, and leaf extracts also show potential health benefits. Although black aronia consumption may positively affect human health, more comprehensive clinical studies are needed to determine clear causal relationships. This review presents its bioactive components and health effects to guide future research.
{"title":"Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) as a Bioactive Treasure: Insights into Its Health-Promoting Effects","authors":"Nevin Sanlier , Ezgi Nur Cinar","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Black aronia or chokeberry (<em>Aronia melanocarpa</em> L.) is a shrub plant of the family <em>Rosaceae</em>. Its fresh fruits are rarely consumed due to their bitter taste from high polyphenol content. However, thanks to bioactive components such as proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, flavonols, and flavanols, black aronia has positive effects on health and chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. It has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers. Compared to other berries, it has higher total polyphenol and anthocyanin content and stronger antioxidant capacity. Thus, it may protect against some cancers and slow aging by reducing cellular damage. The juice, pomace, and leaf extracts also show potential health benefits. Although black aronia consumption may positively affect human health, more comprehensive clinical studies are needed to determine clear causal relationships. This review presents its bioactive components and health effects to guide future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"135 ","pages":"Article 107116"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145681311","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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