Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107206
Jieqiong Lin , Ting Lu , Dahua Chen , Zhonghua Wang , Jun Zhou , Jiaojiao Han
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with limited therapeutic options. This study investigates the protective effects of bioactive peptides derived from sea anemone (ACPs), prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis, in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced murine model of UC. Notably, the peptide ERRK was identified as a dominant component of the ACPs mixture. Remarkably, low-dose ACPs (200 mg/kg) demonstrated superior efficacy over higher doses in ameliorating disease severity, as evidenced by reduced disease activity index (DAI) scores, increased colon length, and improved histopathology. ACPs significantly downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10), while restoring intestinal barrier integrity via increased expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1). Multi-omics analyses revealed that ACPs remodeled gut microbiota composition, enriched beneficial genera (Muribaculum, Prevotella), and modulated host serum metabolites, particularly pathways related to butyrate and tryptophan metabolism. These findings underscore the potential of ACPs, especially at low doses, as a novel functional food for UC management through integrated modulation of the gut microbiota-metabolite-immune axis.
{"title":"Sea anemone-derived bioactive peptides alleviate ulcerative colitis via remodeling the gut microbiota-metabolite-immune axis","authors":"Jieqiong Lin , Ting Lu , Dahua Chen , Zhonghua Wang , Jun Zhou , Jiaojiao Han","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107206","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107206","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with limited therapeutic options. This study investigates the protective effects of bioactive peptides derived from sea anemone (ACPs), prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis, in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced murine model of UC. Notably, the peptide ERRK was identified as a dominant component of the ACPs mixture. Remarkably, low-dose ACPs (200 mg/kg) demonstrated superior efficacy over higher doses in ameliorating disease severity, as evidenced by reduced disease activity index (DAI) scores, increased colon length, and improved histopathology. ACPs significantly downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10), while restoring intestinal barrier integrity via increased expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1). Multi-omics analyses revealed that ACPs remodeled gut microbiota composition, enriched beneficial genera (<em>Muribaculum</em>, <em>Prevotella</em>), and modulated host serum metabolites, particularly pathways related to butyrate and tryptophan metabolism. These findings underscore the potential of ACPs, especially at low doses, as a novel functional food for UC management through integrated modulation of the gut microbiota-metabolite-immune axis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107206"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146171649","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-14DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107212
Fang Zhou , Ji-ming Jia , Ying Liu , Xuan-yu Liu , Xiang-yang Tang , Jie Qin , Peng-yun Fu , Meng-yao Ma , Hua Fu , Bao-de Zhu , Chang-wei Liu
Mulberry leaves and Fu brick tea are renowned for their exceptional hypoglycemic effects. This study used mulberry leaves and fu brick tea as raw materials to develop mulberry leaf Fu brick tea (MFT) as a dietary regulator that can assist in the prevention and alleviation of diabetes. The results demonstrate that administration of MFT at a dose of 210 mg/kg/day for a consecutive 4-week period significantly reduces fasting and random blood glucose levels in GK rats. Notably, levels of glycosylated hemoglobin and glycosylated serum protein return to the normal range, while insulin and glucagon levels are significantly increased, accompanied by substantial improvement in glucose tolerance. Moreover, MFT proves effective in regulating dyslipidemia and reducing liver damage. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that MFT enhances insulin sensitivity and promotes glycogen synthesis by up-regulating key genes in the PI3K-Akt and PPAR signaling pathways, including Insr, Ins1, Gys2, Pi3k, Akt, and Pparα. These findings highlight MFT as a potential dietary intervention for glucose regulation, warranting further evaluation in clinical studies.
{"title":"Transcriptomic insights into the antidiabetic effects of mulberry leaf Fu brick tea in GK rats","authors":"Fang Zhou , Ji-ming Jia , Ying Liu , Xuan-yu Liu , Xiang-yang Tang , Jie Qin , Peng-yun Fu , Meng-yao Ma , Hua Fu , Bao-de Zhu , Chang-wei Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107212","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107212","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Mulberry leaves and Fu brick tea are renowned for their exceptional hypoglycemic effects. This study used mulberry leaves and fu brick tea as raw materials to develop mulberry leaf Fu brick tea (MFT) as a dietary regulator that can assist in the prevention and alleviation of diabetes. The results demonstrate that administration of MFT at a dose of 210 mg/kg/day for a consecutive 4-week period significantly reduces fasting and random blood glucose levels in GK rats. Notably, levels of glycosylated hemoglobin and glycosylated serum protein return to the normal range, while insulin and glucagon levels are significantly increased, accompanied by substantial improvement in glucose tolerance. Moreover, MFT proves effective in regulating dyslipidemia and reducing liver damage. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that MFT enhances insulin sensitivity and promotes glycogen synthesis by up-regulating key genes in the PI3K-Akt and PPAR signaling pathways, including <em>Insr</em>, <em>Ins1</em>, <em>Gys2</em>, <em>Pi3k</em>, <em>Akt</em>, and <em>Pparα</em>. These findings highlight MFT as a potential dietary intervention for glucose regulation, warranting further evaluation in clinical studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107212"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146171654","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-18DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107219
Rachit Sood , Kritika , Sanjay , Hae-Jeung Lee
Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an expanding global concern with limited efficacy of conventional therapies. Probiotics have gained attention for their ability to modulate gut microbiota and glucose homeostasis. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Ln4 at LOW (5 × 108 CFU/day) and HIGH (5 × 109 CFU/day) doses in an STZ/HFD-induced diabetic mouse model, compared with metformin (200 mg/kg). STZ/HFD induction resulted in reduced body and muscle weight, increased food and water intake, elevated fasting blood glucose, OGTT, AUC, HOMA-IR, liver weight, and dysregulated metabolic biomarkers. Ln4 administration significantly reversed these alterations, normalized serum adiponectin, insulin, GLP-1, and HbA1c levels, and improved lipid profile, oxidative stress markers, and histopathological changes in liver and skeletal muscle. Mechanistically, Ln4 restored GLUT-2, GLUT-4, GCK, IRS/PI3K/Akt, AMPK, and GSK3β signaling while suppressing PEPCK and PTP1B expression. Overall, L. plantarum Ln4 effectively ameliorated hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, showing efficacy comparable to metformin.
{"title":"Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Ln4 attenuates streptozotocin and high-fat diet-induced Type-2 diabetes","authors":"Rachit Sood , Kritika , Sanjay , Hae-Jeung Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107219","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107219","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an expanding global concern with limited efficacy of conventional therapies. Probiotics have gained attention for their ability to modulate gut microbiota and glucose homeostasis. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of <em>Lactiplantibacillus plantarum</em> Ln4 at LOW (5 × 10<sup>8</sup> CFU/day) and HIGH (5 × 10<sup>9</sup> CFU/day) doses in an STZ/HFD-induced diabetic mouse model, compared with metformin (200 mg/kg). STZ/HFD induction resulted in reduced body and muscle weight, increased food and water intake, elevated fasting blood glucose, OGTT, AUC, HOMA-IR, liver weight, and dysregulated metabolic biomarkers. Ln4 administration significantly reversed these alterations, normalized serum adiponectin, insulin, GLP-1, and HbA1c levels, and improved lipid profile, oxidative stress markers, and histopathological changes in liver and skeletal muscle. Mechanistically, Ln4 restored GLUT-2, GLUT-4, GCK, IRS/PI3K/Akt, AMPK, and GSK3β signaling while suppressing PEPCK and PTP1B expression. Overall, <em>L. plantarum</em> Ln4 effectively ameliorated hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, showing efficacy comparable to metformin.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107219"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147385557","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-14DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107197
Ji-Hye Song, Jangho Lee, Min-Sun Kim, Seung-U Son, Hyo-Kyoung Choi
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its clinical application is limited by cardiotoxicity associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Cirsium setidens (C. setidens), a traditional Korean edible plant, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the cardioprotective potential of C. setidens aqueous extract (CSA) against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DICT). Metabolite profiling used UPLC-QTOF/MS revealed that CSA contains diverse bioactive compounds, predominantly amino acids and phenolic constituents, including flavonoids, coumarins, cinnamic acid derivatives, and higenamine. Cardiotoxic H9c2 cardiomyocytes and DOX-induced mouse model were used to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of CSA, respectively. CSA protected H9c2 cells against DICT while further enhancing DOX's anticancer effect in MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, CSA markedly attenuated DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction and myocardial injury, including electrocardiographic abnormalities and myocardial fibrosis. Mechanistically, CSA exerted its cardioprotective effects through coordinated regulation of the ROS-inflammation signaling axis. CSA suppressed inflammatory gene expression, including Il-1β, Il-6, Tnf-α, Ifn-γ, and Mcp-1. Concurrently, it activated the Nrf1/Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathways, restoring the expression of downstream antioxidant genes such as Sod1, Sod2, and Ho-1. In addition, CSA modulated apoptosis-related genes by downregulating Bax, Casp9, Casp3, and Parp2, while upregulating anti-apoptotic genes Bcl2 and Bcl-xl. CSA demonstrates cardioprotective efficacy against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by modulating ROS-inflammation-related oxidative and inflammatory pathways, supporting its potential for functional food applications.
{"title":"Cirsium setidens attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways","authors":"Ji-Hye Song, Jangho Lee, Min-Sun Kim, Seung-U Son, Hyo-Kyoung Choi","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107197","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107197","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its clinical application is limited by cardiotoxicity associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. <em>Cirsium setidens</em> (<em>C. setidens</em>), a traditional Korean edible plant, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the cardioprotective potential of <em>C. setidens</em> aqueous extract (CSA) against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DICT). Metabolite profiling used UPLC-QTOF/MS revealed that CSA contains diverse bioactive compounds, predominantly amino acids and phenolic constituents, including flavonoids, coumarins, cinnamic acid derivatives, and higenamine. Cardiotoxic H9c2 cardiomyocytes and DOX-induced mouse model were used to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of CSA, respectively. CSA protected H9c2 cells against DICT while further enhancing DOX's anticancer effect in MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, CSA markedly attenuated DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction and myocardial injury, including electrocardiographic abnormalities and myocardial fibrosis. Mechanistically, CSA exerted its cardioprotective effects through coordinated regulation of the ROS-inflammation signaling axis. CSA suppressed inflammatory gene expression, including <em>Il-1β</em>, <em>Il-6</em>, <em>Tnf-α</em>, <em>Ifn-γ</em>, and <em>Mcp-1</em>. Concurrently, it activated the Nrf1/Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathways, restoring the expression of downstream antioxidant genes such as <em>Sod1</em>, <em>Sod2</em>, and <em>Ho-1</em>. In addition, CSA modulated apoptosis-related genes by downregulating <em>Bax</em>, <em>Casp9</em>, <em>Casp3</em>, and <em>Parp2</em>, while upregulating anti-apoptotic genes <em>Bcl2</em> and <em>Bcl-xl</em>. CSA demonstrates cardioprotective efficacy against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by modulating ROS-inflammation-related oxidative and inflammatory pathways, supporting its potential for functional food applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107197"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147385622","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-01-30DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107183
Ye Li Lee , Kyoung-min Rheu , Sang Yeoup Lee
Stress is a growing public health concern, and nutritional approaches have gained increasing attention for improving mental well-being. Fermentation enhances the bioactive γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) content of agric ultural materials. This 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel GABA-enriched rice germ extract (RG30), produced by Lactobacillus brevis BJ20 fermentation, in 80 adults with mild-to-moderate perceived stress. Participants received 500 mg/day RG30 (120 mg GABA) or placebo. RG30 supplementation significantly reduced Stress Response Inventory scores compared with placebo (adjusted mean difference: −5.39; 95% CI: −10.25, −0.54; p = 0.035) and improved quality of life (EuroQol VAS, p ≤ 0.002) after 8 weeks. Among secondary outcomes, plasma serotonin levels showed relative preservation in the RG30 group with placebo (p = 0.036). No serious adverse events occurred. RG30 represents a safe, fermented, plant-derived functional ingredient that alleviates stress symptoms and enhances quality of life.
压力是一个日益严重的公共卫生问题，营养方法因改善心理健康而受到越来越多的关注。发酵提高了农产品中生物活性γ-氨基丁酸（GABA）的含量。这项为期8周的随机、双盲、安慰剂对照试验评估了一种由短乳杆菌BJ20发酵生产的新型富含gaba的水稻胚芽提取物（RG30）在80名轻度至中度感知应激的成年人中的疗效和安全性。参与者每天服用500毫克RG30（120毫克GABA）或安慰剂。与安慰剂相比，补充RG30显著降低了应激反应量表评分（校正平均差：- 5.39;95% CI: - 10.25, - 0.54; p = 0.035），并在8周后改善了生活质量（EuroQol VAS, p≤0.002）。在次要结果中，安慰剂组血浆血清素水平相对保持（p = 0.036）。未发生严重不良事件。RG30是一种安全、发酵的植物性功能性成分，可缓解应激症状，提高生活质量。
{"title":"Effects of GABA-enriched rice germ extract fermented by Lactobacillus brevis BJ20 on stress symptoms and related biomarkers in adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial","authors":"Ye Li Lee , Kyoung-min Rheu , Sang Yeoup Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107183","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107183","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Stress is a growing public health concern, and nutritional approaches have gained increasing attention for improving mental well-being. Fermentation enhances the bioactive γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) content of agric ultural materials. This 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel GABA-enriched rice germ extract (RG30), produced by <em>Lactobacillus brevis</em> BJ20 fermentation, in 80 adults with mild-to-moderate perceived stress. Participants received 500 mg/day RG30 (120 mg GABA) or placebo. RG30 supplementation significantly reduced Stress Response Inventory scores compared with placebo (adjusted mean difference: −5.39; 95% CI: −10.25, −0.54; <em>p</em> = 0.035) and improved quality of life (EuroQol VAS, <em>p</em> ≤ 0.002) after 8 weeks. Among secondary outcomes, plasma serotonin levels showed relative preservation in the RG30 group with placebo (<em>p</em> = 0.036). No serious adverse events occurred. RG30 represents a safe, fermented, plant-derived functional ingredient that alleviates stress symptoms and enhances quality of life.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107183"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077120","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-18DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107223
Yubin Li , Jia Zhang , Yuqiang Li , Yuming Su , Nan Li
Obesity-induced oxidative stress contributes to metabolic disorders, and its suppression may prevent disease. While gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) modulate lipid metabolism, their role in oxidative stress remains unclear. Using C57BL/6 J mice and cell models (HepG2 and 3 T3-L1), this study demonstrates that SCFAs alleviate obesity-related oxidative damage in liver and adipose tissues. Mechanistically, SCFAs activate AMPKα and PPARγ, which not only inhibit lipogenesis but also interact with SCD1 to increase the monounsaturated-to-polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio (MUFA/PUFA) in phospholipids, thereby reducing lipid peroxidation in both in vivo and in vitro models. Specifically, propionate and butyrate upregulated monounsaturated phospholipids PHDdiA-Pe and PKOHA-PS. Additionally, SCFAs restore the gut microbial balance disrupted by obesity in C57BL/6 J mice. These findings provide a theoretical basis for SCFA-based dietary interventions against obesity-related diseases.
{"title":"Short-chain fatty acids attenuate obesity-induced oxidative stress by regulating the MUFA/PUFA ratio in phospholipids","authors":"Yubin Li , Jia Zhang , Yuqiang Li , Yuming Su , Nan Li","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107223","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107223","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Obesity-induced oxidative stress contributes to metabolic disorders, and its suppression may prevent disease. While gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) modulate lipid metabolism, their role in oxidative stress remains unclear. Using C57BL/6 J mice and cell models (HepG2 and 3 T3-L1), this study demonstrates that SCFAs alleviate obesity-related oxidative damage in liver and adipose tissues. Mechanistically, SCFAs activate AMPKα and PPARγ, which not only inhibit lipogenesis but also interact with SCD1 to increase the monounsaturated-to-polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio (MUFA/PUFA) in phospholipids, thereby reducing lipid peroxidation in both in vivo and in vitro models. Specifically, propionate and butyrate upregulated monounsaturated phospholipids PHDdiA-Pe and PKOHA-PS. Additionally, SCFAs restore the gut microbial balance disrupted by obesity in C57BL/6 J mice. These findings provide a theoretical basis for SCFA-based dietary interventions against obesity-related diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107223"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147385558","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-14DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107211
Bao-Hong Lee , I-Hong Pan , Kuei-Chang Li , Shu-Chi Cho , Cheng-Hao Huang , Wei-Hsuan Hsu
Probiotics modulate gut-brain communication and influence cognitive function. This study investigated the effects of a probiotic mixture, Pro-neuron, on spatial memory and gut microbiota in healthy mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: blank control, positive control (PC, gamma-aminobutyric acid), and Pro-neuron. After four weeks of oral administration, spatial memory was assessed using the Y-maze test, and gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Pro-neuron significantly enhanced memory performance, as indicated by increased alternation behavior. Immunohistochemistry showed elevated hippocampal expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels remained unchanged. Pro-neuron also enriched beneficial microbiota taxa, including Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Muribaculum, which are associated with neuroactive metabolite production, including short-chain fatty acids. These findings suggest that Pro-neuron may enhance spatial memory by modulating gut microbiota and promoting hippocampal BDNF expression, supporting its potential as a cognitive health supplement.
{"title":"Probiotic mixture enhances spatial memory via gut-brain axis modulation in mice","authors":"Bao-Hong Lee , I-Hong Pan , Kuei-Chang Li , Shu-Chi Cho , Cheng-Hao Huang , Wei-Hsuan Hsu","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107211","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107211","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Probiotics modulate gut-brain communication and influence cognitive function. This study investigated the effects of a probiotic mixture, Pro-neuron, on spatial memory and gut microbiota in healthy mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: blank control, positive control (PC, gamma-aminobutyric acid), and Pro-neuron. After four weeks of oral administration, spatial memory was assessed using the Y-maze test, and gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Pro-neuron significantly enhanced memory performance, as indicated by increased alternation behavior. Immunohistochemistry showed elevated hippocampal expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels remained unchanged. Pro-neuron also enriched beneficial microbiota taxa, including <em>Bifidobacterium</em>, <em>Lactobacillus</em>, and <em>Muribaculum</em>, which are associated with neuroactive metabolite production, including short-chain fatty acids. These findings suggest that Pro-neuron may enhance spatial memory by modulating gut microbiota and promoting hippocampal BDNF expression, supporting its potential as a cognitive health supplement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107211"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147385624","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 : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-12DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107196
Jannat Bibi , Yao Lei , Muhammad Zia Ahmad , Katarzyna Kotwica-Mojzych , Mariola Głowacka , Mariusz Mojzych
Beetroot (Beta Vulgaris) has garnered significant attention as a natural dietary supplement for enhancing athletic performance and endurance. Rich in nitrates, beetroot is converted into nitric oxide upon ingestion, improving blood flow, lung function, and muscle contraction. Recent studies highlighted beetroot's role in boosting endurance, athletic performance, and overall physical fitness. In addition to nitrates, beetroot contains an array of phytochemicals such as carotenoids, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and betalains. These bioactive compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood-enhancing properties, offering benefits like improved oxygen delivery and muscle recovery. Betalains, in particular, have shown promise in preventing muscle injury and mitigating oxidative stress. Available studies suggest that consuming approximately 500 mL of beetroot juice 2 to 3 h before exercise may enhance endurance and oxygen efficiency. However, there is conflicting evidence in the literature regarding the optimal dosage and the long-term effects of beetroot supplementation in sports science This review explores the current scientific understanding of beetroot's nutritional benefits, its physiological mechanisms, its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic supplements, and future perspective. By emphasizing its affordability and natural origin, this paper encourages further research and the adoption of beetroot in sports nutrition to boost athletic performance.
{"title":"Beetroot boost: Unlocking the power of Beta Vulgaris for peak athletic performance","authors":"Jannat Bibi , Yao Lei , Muhammad Zia Ahmad , Katarzyna Kotwica-Mojzych , Mariola Głowacka , Mariusz Mojzych","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107196","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107196","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Beetroot (<em>Beta Vulgaris</em>) has garnered significant attention as a natural dietary supplement for enhancing athletic performance and endurance. Rich in nitrates, beetroot is converted into nitric oxide upon ingestion, improving blood flow, lung function, and muscle contraction. Recent studies highlighted beetroot's role in boosting endurance, athletic performance, and overall physical fitness. In addition to nitrates, beetroot contains an array of phytochemicals such as carotenoids, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and betalains. These bioactive compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood-enhancing properties, offering benefits like improved oxygen delivery and muscle recovery. Betalains, in particular, have shown promise in preventing muscle injury and mitigating oxidative stress. Available studies suggest that consuming approximately 500 mL of beetroot juice 2 to 3 h before exercise may enhance endurance and oxygen efficiency. However, there is conflicting evidence in the literature regarding the optimal dosage and the long-term effects of beetroot supplementation in sports science This review explores the current scientific understanding of beetroot's nutritional benefits, its physiological mechanisms, its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic supplements, and future perspective. By emphasizing its affordability and natural origin, this paper encourages further research and the adoption of beetroot in sports nutrition to boost athletic performance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107196"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146171578","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}
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic disease marked by high blood glucose due to β-cell dysfunction, leading to major metabolic and cardiovascular risks. It is expected to reach 783 million people by 2045. In Morocco, its prevalence rose from 10.6% in 2018 to 13.8% in 2021. Managing hyperglycemia involves both pharmaceutical and dietary adjustments, including diet and physical activity. Complementary approaches, such as herbal products, are increasingly used to help control hyperglycemia. Herein, we summarized the potential advantageous impacts of the most used herbs in Moroccan cuisine, such as coriander, saffron, ginger, cumin, and turmeric, on glycemia in T2D. The review focuses on the interactions between the main bioactive compounds of each spice and glycemic regulation in healthy individuals and patients with T2D, while highlighting the underlying mechanistic pathways involved. The available evidence suggests a potential contribution to glycemic control, although the strength of evidence varies among spices.
{"title":"Moroccan culinary spices as complementary or alternative medicine for the management of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes: a comprehensive review","authors":"Sbahi Mohamed , Chernane Halima , Assmaa Choukri , Himri imane , Aayah Hammoumi","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107210","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107210","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic disease marked by high blood glucose due to β-cell dysfunction, leading to major metabolic and cardiovascular risks. It is expected to reach 783 million people by 2045. In Morocco, its prevalence rose from 10.6% in 2018 to 13.8% in 2021. Managing hyperglycemia involves both pharmaceutical and dietary adjustments, including diet and physical activity. Complementary approaches, such as herbal products, are increasingly used to help control hyperglycemia. Herein, we summarized the potential advantageous impacts of the most used herbs in Moroccan cuisine, such as coriander, saffron, ginger, cumin, and turmeric, on glycemia in T2D. The review focuses on the interactions between the main bioactive compounds of each spice and glycemic regulation in healthy individuals and patients with T2D, while highlighting the underlying mechanistic pathways involved. The available evidence suggests a potential contribution to glycemic control, although the strength of evidence varies among spices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107210"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146171609","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}
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing global health concern linked to metabolic dysfunction. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) like NEAT1 play critical roles in NAFLD pathogenesis. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Indian lychee honey (LyH) and pinocembrin, a major component of LyH, against NAFLD. Mechanistically, the data showed that pinocembrin destabilized NEAT1 by inhibiting the activity of ALKBH5, a m6A RNA demethylase. RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA stability assay with actinomycin D further confirmed that this inhibition decreased the m6A modification of NEAT1, leading to its degradation. Furthermore, the effects of pinocembrin and LyH treatment against NEAT1 stabilization and lipid accumulation were validated by using a pharmacological inhibitor of ALKBH5 (cpd 20 m). These findings demonstrate that pinocembrin, a predominant phytochemical present in LyH, reduces lncRNA NEAT1 expression, correlating with attenuated lipid accumulation. Future studies employing NEAT1 gain-of-function would better clarify the mechanistic causality for this effect. Overall, this study offers LyH as a promising therapeutic strategy for NAFLD management by targeting the ALKBH5/NEAT1 axis.
{"title":"Pinocembrin in Indian lychee honey destabilizes hepatic lncRNA NEAT1 by inhibiting ALKBH5-mediated m6A-demethylation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease condition","authors":"Chandrachur Ghosh , Varuna Arora , Jyoti Barman , Somsuvra Chatterjee , Saugata Hazra , Debabrata Sircar , Prabhat Kumar , Partha Roy","doi":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107168","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jff.2026.107168","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing global health concern linked to metabolic dysfunction. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) like NEAT1 play critical roles in NAFLD pathogenesis. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Indian lychee honey (LyH) and pinocembrin, a major component of LyH, against NAFLD. Mechanistically, the data showed that pinocembrin destabilized NEAT1 by inhibiting the activity of ALKBH5, a m6A RNA demethylase. RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA stability assay with actinomycin D further confirmed that this inhibition decreased the m6A modification of NEAT1, leading to its degradation. Furthermore, the effects of pinocembrin and LyH treatment against NEAT1 stabilization and lipid accumulation were validated by using a pharmacological inhibitor of ALKBH5 (cpd 20 m). These findings demonstrate that pinocembrin, a predominant phytochemical present in LyH, reduces lncRNA NEAT1 expression, correlating with attenuated lipid accumulation. Future studies employing NEAT1 gain-of-function would better clarify the mechanistic causality for this effect. Overall, this study offers LyH as a promising therapeutic strategy for NAFLD management by targeting the ALKBH5/NEAT1 axis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":360,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Foods","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107168"},"PeriodicalIF":4.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146171653","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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