Comparative Studies on the Physicochemical Characteristics and Lipid Contents of Desert Date (Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del) Kernel and Pulp Oils

Aims: This work is aimed at investigating physicochemical parameters and compositions of fatty acid, phospholipid and sterol of desert date (Balanites aegyptiaca) kernel and pulp. Study Design: Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is one of the oldest feed-stocks in Africa of which little or no attention has been given to it. The plant plays a diverse cultural and traditional role in different societies. Therefore, it is very important to explore more about the chemical composition of the kernel and pulp oils of Balanites aegyptiaca; since it is currently attracting considerable research interest as a result of its diverse beneficial properties. Methodology: The physicochemical parameters, fatty acids, phospholipids and phytosterols of B. aegyptiaca seed and pulp oils have been analyzed and compared with the standards and that of conventional oil for easy assessment of their suitability for nutritional and industrial applications. Results: The results of some physicochemical parameters of kernel and pulp oils were acid value (26.35 and 15.60 mg KOH/g), peroxide value (3.82 and 5.90 meq/kg), saponification value (162.40 and 198.60 mg KOH/g), iodine value (55.20 and 142.50 mg of I/100 g), specific gravity (0.93 and 0.92), kinematic viscosity (2.12 and 1.65 St) and refractive index (1.41 and 1.39), respectively. The most concentrated fatty acids were palmitic acid (14.53%) < linoleic acid (35.65%) < oleic acid (38.27%) for the kernel oil while that of pulp oil were linolenic acid (8.21%) < oleic acid (16.80%) < palmitic acid (32.70%) < linoleic acid (33.56%). Arachidic, behenic, lignoceric and myristic acids were all present in small quantities with none of them recording up to 1.0% in either of the samples. Caprylic, capric and lauric acids were determined but not detected in both oils. The fatty acid composition of kernel and pulp oils contained a healthy mixture of all the types of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. The value of polyunsaturated/saturated index (P/S) which is associated to the impact on human health was higher in the pulp oil (2.47). Phosphatidylcholine had the highest content in both oils that is 75.99 and 25.88 mg/100 g, respectively. The total values of phytosterols for kernel and pulp oils were 85.00 and 9.87 mg/100 g, respectively. Conclusion: Balanites aegytiaca kernel and pulp oils have the potential to substitute several materials used in manufacturing oil in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. However, in order to extend usage, these oils should be refined in order to improve the colour and taste.

Plasma lathosterol measures rates of cholesterol synthesis and efficiency of dietary phytosterols in reducing the plasma cholesterol concentration

Abstract Objectives Because the plasma campesterol/cholesterol ratio does not differ between groups that absorb different amounts of cholesterol, the authors investigated whether the plasma Phytosterols (PS) relate to the body's cholesterol synthesis rate measured as non-cholesterol sterol precursors (lathosterol). Method The authors studied 38 non-obese volunteers (58±12 years; Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol ‒ LDL-C ≥ 130 mg/dL) randomly assigned to consume 400 mL/day of soy milk (Control phase) or soy milk + PS (1.6 g/day) for four weeks in a double-blind, cross-over study. PS and lathosterol were measured in plasma by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrophotometry. Results PS treatment reduced plasma total cholesterol concentration (-5.5%, p < 0.001), LDL-C (-7.6%, p < 0.001), triglycerides (-13.6%, p < 0.0085), and apolipoprotein B (apo B) (-6.3%, p < 0.008), without changing high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C concentration), but plasma lathosterol, campesterol and sitosterol expressed per plasma cholesterol increased. Conclusions The lathosterol-to-cholesterol plasma ratio predicted the plasma cholesterol response to PS feeding. The highest plasma lathosterol concentration during the control phase was associated with a lack of response of plasma cholesterol during the PS treatment period. Consequently, cholesterol synthesis in non-responders to dietary PS being elevated in the control phase indicates these cases resist to further synthesis rise, whereas responders to dietary PS, having in the control phase synthesis values lower than non-responders, expand synthesis on alimentary PS. Responders absorb more PS than non-responders, likely resulting from responders delivering into the intestinal lumen less endogenous cholesterol than non-responders do, thus facilitating greater intestinal absorption of PS shown as increased plasma PS concentration.

Utilización de kiwicha precocida ( Amaranthus caudatus ) para el desarrollo de barras funcionales

RESUMEN En el presente trabajo se utilizaron granos de kiwicha (Amaranthus caudatus) popeado y laminado como ingrediente funcional para elaborar una barrita destinadas a la población infantil/embarazo/lactancia y población en general. Por ello, el objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar su aporte nutricional, calidad microbiológica y textura de los granos precocidos y de las barras formuladas. Se elaboraron dos productos precocidos de kiwicha: popeado y laminado. Las determinaciones fueron: Cuantificación de amilosa/amilopectina, almidón resistente (AR), fitoesteroles, lisina disponible, calidad proteica y caracterización microbiológica. A partir de estos productos obtenidos se formularon barras funcionales de kiwicha (con granos popeado y laminado) y se determinó: composición proximal y porcentaje del Valor Diario (% VD), % de Ingesta Dietética de Referencia (% IDR) y se realizó la prueba de Análisis de Perfil de Textura. Las barras funcionales de kiwicha presentaron un alto aporte calórico, proteico (9,83-9.85 g/100g), de buena calidad proteica (cómputo químico >100) y alto aporte de fibra. La porción cubre el 11% de IDR de proteínas para niños. Los granos de kiwicha precocidos tuvieron: bajo contenido de amilosa y AR, alto contenido de fitoesteroles. La textura de las barras fue diferente según el método de pre-cocción utilizado en el grano de kiwicha. La incorporación de granos de kiwicha precocidos permitió obtener un producto alimenticio funcional de alto valor nutricional por su aporte proteico, fibra y fitoesteroles, destinado a diferentes momentos biológicos.

ABSTRACT In the present work, popped and laminated kiwicha (Amaranthus caudatus) grains were used as a functional ingredient to elaborate a bar intended for the child / pregnant / lactating, and general population. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate its nutritional contribution, microbiological quality and texture of precooked grains and formulated bars. Two precooked kiwicha products were made: popped and laminated. The determinations were: quantification of amylose / amylopectin, resistant starch (RS), phytosterols, available lysine, protein quality and microbiological characterization. From these obtained products, kiwicha functional bars (with popped and laminated grains) were formulated and the following were determined: proximal composition and percentage of Daily Value (% DV), % of Reference Dietary Intake (% RDI) and the Texture Profile Analysis test was performed. The functional kiwicha bars presented a high caloric and protein intake (9.83-9.85 g/100 g), good protein quality (chemical count>100) and high fiber intake. The serving covers 11% of the protein RDI for children. Precooked kiwicha grains had: low amylose and RS content and high phytosterols content. The texture of the bars was different according to the pre-cooking method used in the kiwicha grain. The incorporation of precooked kiwicha grains allowed for the obtainment of a functional food product of high nutritional value due to its protein and phytosterols contribution, destined for different biological moments.

Phytosterol supplementation in the treatment of dyslipidemia in children and adolescents: a systematic review / Suplementação de fitoesteróis no tratamento da dislipidemia em crianças e adolescentes: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Objective: To carry out a systematic review on the effects of phytosterol supplementation on the treatment of dyslipidemia in children and adolescents. Data sources: Review in the SciELO, Lilacs, Bireme, PubMed and Web of Science databases, with no time limit. Descriptors: phytosterols or plant sterols and dyslipidemias, hypercholesterolemia, cholesterol, children, adolescent, in English and Portuguese. The articles included were published in Portuguese, English or Spanish and evaluated the effect of phytosterol supplementation in pediatric patients with dyslipidemia. Documents that involved adults or animals, review papers, case studies and abstracts were excluded. Two authors performed independent extraction of articles. Of 113 abstracts, 19 were read in full and 12 were used in this manuscript. Data synthesis: Phytosterol supplementation to reduce cholesterol levels has been shown to be effective in reducing LDL-cholesterol levels by approximately 10%, with reductions above 10% in LDL-cholesterol levels observed after 8 to 12 weeks of intervention. Studies have not shown significant changes in HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Based on the absence of adverse effects, its use seems to be safe and of good tolerance in children and adolescents. Conclusions: Phytosterol supplementation seems to be of great therapeutic aid for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia in children and adolescents. Further studies assessing the long-term effect of phytosterol supplementation are necessary.

RESUMO Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão sistemática sobre os efeitos da suplementação de fitoesteróis no tratamento da dislipidemia em crianças e adolescentes. Fontes de dados: Revisão nos bancos SciELO, Lilacs, Bireme, Pubmed e Web of Science, sem limite de tempo. Descritores: phytosterols or plant sterols, dyslipidemias, hypercholesterolemia, cholesterol, children, adolescent, nas línguas inglesa e portuguesa. Os artigos incluídos foram publicados nos idiomas português, inglês ou espanhol e avaliaram o efeito da suplementação de fitoesteróis em pacientes pediátricos com dislipidemia. Estudos que envolviam adultos ou animais, trabalhos de revisão, estudos de caso e resumos foram excluídos. A extração independente de artigos foi realizada por dois autores. Do total de 113 resumos, 19 foram lidos na íntegra, e 12 utilizados neste manuscrito. Síntese de dados: A suplementação de fitoesteróis para a redução dos níveis de colesterol mostrou-se eficiente, de forma a promover a redução de aproximadamente 10% dos níveis de LDL-colesterol, sendo observadas reduções acima de 10% em 8 a 12 semanas de intervenção. Os estudos não mostraram alterações significantes nos níveis de HDL-colesterol e triglicérides. Com base na ausência de efeitos adversos, seu uso parece ser seguro e de boa tolerância em crianças e adolescentes. Conclusões: A suplementação com fitoesteróis parece ser de grande auxílio terapêutico para o tratamento da hipercolesterolemia em crianças e adolescentes. São necessários mais estudos que avaliem o efeito em longo prazo da suplementação de fitoesteróis.

New Phenolic Glycoside from Aerial Part of Allium sativum / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective: To study the chemical constituents from the aerial part of Allium sativum. Method: The aerial part of A. sativum was treated by heating reflux extraction with 70% ethanol. The combined extracting solution was treated with decompressed recovery solvent to obtain the total extract. The total extract's thick paste was suspended with an appropriate amount of distilled water, and then extracted with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and water-saturated n-butyl alcohol to obtain petroleum ether extraction fraction, ethyl acetate extraction fraction and n-butyl alcohol extraction fraction. The n-butyl alcohol extraction fraction was isolated and purified by positive phase silica gel column chromatography, ODS column chromatography and preparative HPLC,etc. The structures of the chemical constituents were elucidated by means of physicochemical properties and spectroscopic analysis, and spectral data, like 1H-NMR, 13 C-NMR, DEPT, HMBC and HR-ESI-MS. Result: Seven compounds were isolated and identified as 2-methoxy-phenol-1-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside(1),phenyl-ethanol-4-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside(2),trans-resveratrol 3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(3),stigmasterol(4),β-sitosterol(5),stigmasterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside(6) and daucosterol(7). Conclusion: Compound 1 is a new phenolic glycoside named dasuanxinoside J,and compounds 2-7 are isolated from A. sativum for the first time.

Attention to plant sterols: a novel risk factor for residual risk assessment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease / 中华检验医学杂志

Plant sterols are a class of compounds naturally produced by plants and structurally similar to cholesterol. For human, plant sterols can only be obtained from food and cannot be utilized directly. With the development of gas chromatography technology and in-depth research on the molecular mechanisms of rare diseases, plant sterols have been found to play important roles in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD)and become a residual risk factor after statin therapy. As a novel metabolic marker, plant sterols can reflect steady state the imbalance of the cholesterol and the increase of the cholesterol absorption within the human body, and is expected to become a new risk factor for ASCVD residual risk assessment.

Phytosterols in the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia and Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases / Fitosteróis no Tratamento da Hipercolesterolemia e Prevenção de Doenças Cardiovasculares

Abstract Phytosterols are bioactive compounds found in foods of plant origin, which can be divided into plant sterols and plant stanols. Clinical studies consistently indicate that the intake of phytosterols (2 g/day) is associated with a significant reduction (8-10%) in levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol). Thus, several guidelines recommend the intake of 2 g/day of plant sterols and/or stanols in order to reduce LDL-cholesterol levels. As the typical western diet contains only about 300 mg/day of phytosterols, foods enriched with phytosterols are usually used to achieve the recommended intake. Although phytosterols decrease LDL-cholesterol levels, there is no evidence that they reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases; on the contrary, some studies suggest an increased risk of atherosclerosis with increasing serum levels of phytosterols. This review aims to address the evidence available in the literature on the relationship between phytosterols and risk of cardiovascular disease.

Resumo Os fitosteróis são compostos bioativos encontrados em alimentos de origem vegetal e que podem ser divididos em esteróis vegetais e estanóis vegetais. Estudos clínicos indicam de forma consistente que a ingestão de fitosteróis (2 g/dia) está associada a uma redução significativa (8-10%) de níveis de colesterol da lipoproteína de baixa densidade (LDL-C). Desta forma, diversas diretrizes recomendam a ingestão de 2 g/dia de esteróis e/ou estanóis vegetais com o objetivo de reduzir os níveis de LDL-C. Como uma dieta ocidental típica contém apenas cerca de 300 mg/dia de fitosteróis, normalmente são utilizados alimentos enriquecidos com fitosteróis para alcançar a ingestão recomendada. Apesar dos fitosteróis reduzirem os níveis de LDL-C, não há evidências de que reduzam o risco de doenças cardiovasculares. Pelo contrário, alguns estudos sugerem que a elevação na concentração sérica de fitosteróis possa estar associada com aumento no risco de aterosclerose. Esta revisão tem como objetivo abordar as evidências disponíveis na literatura sobre a relação entre fitosteróis e risco de doenças cardiovasculares.

The effect of phytosterol intensive diet intervention in patients with type2 diabetes mellitus combined with nonalcoholic fatty liver / 中国实用护理杂志

Objectives To investigate the effects of phytosterol intensive diet intervention on blood glucose, blood lipid and liver function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus combined with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD). Methods Patients with NAFLD admitted to the department of endocrinology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University from January 2016 to June 2016 were recruited.We divided the groups according to the order of patient admission,with patients admitted from January to March who received conventional diabetes mellitus low-fat diet enrolled as control group,and patients admitted from April to June received extra phytosterol intensive diet on the basis of conventional diabetes mellitus diet as treatment group. The changes of blood glucose, blood lipid and liver function between two groups with a follow-up of six months before and after intervention were compared and analyzed. Results After intervention,the levels of fasting blood sugar(FPG)and blood glucose(2hPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol (TG), triglyceride (TC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of patients in control group(11.13 ± 3.17)mmol/L,(18.65 ± 6.21)mmol/L,(9.82 ± 1.69)%,(2.81 ± 1.43) mmol/L、(5.40 ± 1.14)mmol/L,77.27%(51/66),which were lower than those before intervention((8.51 ± 2.83)mmol/L,(10.39 ± 3.62)mmol/L,(7.78 ± 1.46)%,(2.18 ± 1.13)mmol/L,(4.99 ± 1.04)mmol/L, 90.91%(60/66),P<0.05,and FPG,2 hPG,HbA1c,TG,TC,LDL-C,ALT and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the experimental group were(11.32 ± 3.64)mmol/L,(20.09 ± 4.83)mmol/L,(9.70 ± 2.12)%, (2.68 ± 1.74)mmol/L,(5.16 ± 1.10)mmol/L,(3.18 ± 0.92)mmol/L,(70.27)%(52/74),(86.49)%(64/74), which were significantly lower than those before intervention((7.37 ± 2.08)mmol/L,(9.20 ± 3.35)mmol/L, (6.75 ± 0.99)%,(1.86 ± 1.13)mmol/L,(4.69 ± 1.06)mmol/L,(2.67 ± 0.72)mmol/L, 91.89%(68/74), 98.65%(73/74), P<0.05, and the differences was statistically significant(t=4.584,9.329,7.349,2.823, 2.140,χ2=4.587, P<0.01 or 0.05 in control group;t=8.106,15.715, 10.826,3.393,2.651,3.755,P<0.01 in experimental group). The levels of FPG, 2 hPG and HbA1c were significantly lower in the experimental group compared with those in control group after intervention(P<0.05),and the positive-to-negative rate of fatty liver were found to be significantly higher (33.8%,25/74) than that (9.1%,6/66) in controls(P<0.05).There were not significantly differences in the level of TG,TC,high density lipoprotein(HDL-C), LDL-C, ALT and AST between the control group and experimental group(P>0.05). Conclusions Phytosterol intensive diet intervention can effectively reduce LDL-C,AST and the blood glucose level of type 2 diabetes patients with NAFLD, improving the positive-to-negative rate of fatty liver. Phytosterol intensive diet intervention can effectively reduce LDL-C, AST and the blood glucose level of type 2 diabetes patients with NAFLD,improve the positive-to-negative rate of fatty liver.

Potential Hypocholesterolemic Activity of Flour from Leaves of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.)

Introduction: Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) leaves contain phytosterols and dietary fibres which may be beneficial in controlling blood cholesterol levels. This study was aimed at assessing the hypocholesterolemic effect of flour from leaves of M. oleifera L. (MLF) with white and red stalk in rats. Methods: Thirty male rats were divided into 6 groups, comprising a normal group (negative control), a hypercholestrolemic group (positive control) both of which were without MLF feeding, and 4 hypercholesterolemic groups fed MLF for 4 weeks in the following manner: (i) 0.822 mg/g bw/d white stalk (WM); (ii) 0.822 mg/g bw/d red stalk (RM); (iii) 0.02 ml/g bw/d commercial plant stanol ester (FS); and (iv) 0.001 mg/g bw/d ezetimibe (ET). At the end, serum total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol LDL-c), viscosity and pH of digesta, faecal cholesterol, and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were analysed. Results: TC levels in the WM, RM, FS and ET groups decreased by 42.0, 48.8, 48.4 and 52.8% respectively, compared to initial levels. The four groups also showed decreases in serum LDL-c levels by 30.3, 39.2, 37.9 and 46.7% respectively, over the feeding period. Faecal cholesterol levels of WM and RM were higher (63.93?±1.87 and 90.11?±1.77 mg/100 g faeces, respectively) than that of the positive control (51.30?±4.03 mg/100 g) after 4 weeks. Conclusion: Flour from moringa leaves of white and red stalk trees showed potential hypocholesterolemic activity in ra

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. ) seed oil as a naturally rich source of bioactive compounds for nutraceutical purposes

Background: Characterization of food lipids has triggered the development of applications for the food and health industries. Thus, the lipid profiles of an increasing number of fruits and their seeds have been characterized and numerous bioactive components have been isolated. The bitter gourd seed oil has aroused great interest because it contains relevant amounts of conjugated fatty acid α-eleostearic acid (C18:3 9c11t13t), a positional and geometric isomer of α-linolenic acid. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the phytochemical composition and quality parameters of the seed oil of bitter gourd grown in Brazil. Methods: Bitter gourd was purchased from CEAGESP (Brazilian company of fresh food storages and warehouses). Seeds were lyophilized, and their oil was extracted using the Soxhlet and Folch extraction methods. The profiles of fatty acids and phytosterols were analyzed by gas chromatography, and the acidity and peroxide values were evaluated by methods of the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS). Results: The Soxhlet extraction (40 % w / w ) resulted in a higher yield of bitter gourd seed oil than the Folch extraction (16 % w / w). For both methods, α-eleostearic acid (56 and 58 %) was the major lipid in bitter gourd seed oil, followed by stearic acid (C18:0; 32 and 27 %). The oil displayed high content of phytosterols (886 mg/100 g), mainly ß-sitosterol, and low acidity and peroxide values. Conclusions: Bitter gourd seed oil from Brazil is an oil of good quality and its high contents of α-eleostearic acid and phytosterols with potential health-beneficial properties make it an attractive plant byproduct.

Fuentes naturales de fitoesteroles y factores de producción que lo modifican / Natural sources of phytosterols and production factors that modify them

Actualmente los fitoesteroles son adicionados a los alimentos industrializados, lo que aumenta su costo y por lo tanto limita su consumo. Este manuscrito tiene como objetivo identificar alimentos que son una fuente natural de fitoesteroles, así como también analizar cómo el ambiente y el manejo productivo modifican su contenido, relacionando estos aspectos con la salud. Los fitoesteroles son compuestos presentes en las plantas con propiedades hipocolesterolémicas, que pueden contribuir a prevenir las enfermedades cardiovasculares. La ingesta diaria estimada de fitoesteroles varía entre 160 y 500 mg/día, sin embargo su acción beneficiosa se logra con consumos de 1500 mg a 2400 mg diarios. Las semillas de oleaginosas y de cereales son las mayores fuentes naturales de fitoesteroles. El amaranto es considerado un pseudocereal y entre los cereales tiene la mayor concentración de fitoesteroles con 178 mg/100 g, valor 5 veces superior al de la harina de trigo. El ambiente modifica el contenido de fitoesteroles de los alimentos, la sequía y temperaturas altas duplican su contenido en las semillas; la fertilización nitrogenada y la fecha de siembra pueden provocar cambios, pero se requieren más estudios al respecto. La selección de genotipos con mayor contenido de fitoesteroles y el estudio de la interacción genotipo ambiente, permitirá la identificación de aquellos genotipos con adaptación local para este carácter. El manejo productivo podrá aumentar la oferta de alimentos naturales ricos en fitoesteroles, contribuyendo a una mayor oferta de alimentos protectores de la salud(AU)

Currently phytosterols are added to processed foods, which increase their cost and therefore limits its use. This manuscript aims to identify foods that are a natural source of phytosterols, as well as analyze how the environment and production management modify its content, linking these aspects with health. Phytosterols are compounds found in plants with hypocholesterolemic properties, which may help prevent cardiovascular diseases. The estimated daily intake of phytosterols varies between 160 and 500 mg/day, but its beneficial effect is achieved with 1,500 to 2,400 mg daily consumption. Oil and cereal seeds are the largest natural sources of phytosterols. Amaranth is considered a pseudocereal and among the cereals has the highest concentration of phytosterols with 178 mg/100 g, value 5 times higher than wheat flour. Environment modifies phytosterol content in food, drought and high temperatures can double their content in seeds; nitrogen fertilization and planting date can cause changes, but more studies are needed. The selection of genotypes with higher phytosterol content and studying the genotype x environment interaction, allow the identification of those genotypes with local adaptation for this character. The production management will increase the supply of natural foods rich in phytosterols, contributing to a greater supply of health protective foods(AU)

Molecular Cloning and Expression of Squalene Epoxidase from a Medicinal Plant, Bupleurum chinense / 中草药·英文版

Objective: In plant, squalene epoxidase (SE) catalyzes the first oxygenation step in the biosynthetic pathway of triterpenoid and phytosterol, representing one of the rate-limiting enzymes in this pathway. Bupleurum chinense is an important medicinal herb with its major active constituents such as triterpenoid saponins and saikosaponins. In order to obtain the series of enzymatic genes involved in saikosaponin biosynthesis, a cDNA of SE, designated BcSE1, was cloned from B. chinense. Methods: The BcSE1 gene was cloned by homology-based PCR and 5'/3' RACE methods from the adventitious roots of B. chinense. The physical and chemical parameters of BcSE1 protein were predicted by protparam. In order to discover hints in amino acid sequences on the dominant functions in the biosynthesis of saponin or phytosterol, sequences of SE from other plants were downloaded from NCBI for sequences alignment and phylogenetic analysis. BcSE1 was cloned into a yeast mutant KLN1 (MATa, erg1::URA3, leu2, ura3, and trp1) to verify the enzyme activity of BcSE1. Additionally, the tissue-specific expression and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) inducibility of BcSE1 were investigated using quantitative real-time PCR. Results: The predicted protein of BcSE1 is highly similar to SEs from other plants sharing amino acid sequence identities of up to 88%. The BcSE1 can functionally complement with yeast SE gene (ERG1) when expressed in the KLN1 mutant (MATa, erg1::URA3, leu2, ura3, and trp1). Using as controls with β-amyrin synthase (β-AS) which is presumed to catalyze the first committed step in saikosaponin biosynthesis and a cycloartenol synthase (CAS) relating to the phytosterol biosynthesis, the transcript of BcSE1 was significantly elevated by MeJA in adventitious roots of B. chinense and the transcript of BcSE1 was most abundant in the fruits and flowers of plants, followed by that in the leaves and roots, and least in stems. Conclusion: It is the first time to illustrate the molecular information of SE in B. chinense and to clone the full-length SE gene in plants of genus Bupleurum L.

The Story of Beta-sitosterol- A Review.

Aims: Phytosterols are a subgroup of the steroids, as an important class of bioorganic molecules, widespread in plants, animals, marines as well as fungi and have similarity to cholesterol in structure. These compounds have a long history of consumption as food or pharmaceutical products, and generally recognized as safe without undesirable side effects. Place and Duration of Study: Medicinal plants Research Center and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, between March 2013 and May 2013. Results: Amongphytosterols, β-sitosterol is usually used for heart disease, hypercholesterolemia, modulating the immune system, prevention of cancer, as well as for rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, cervical cancer, hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Furthermore, diverse biological activities whereby natural compounds or the extracts were considered including trypanocidal and mosquito larvicidal, even neutralization of viper and cobra venom characteristics was recorded. Conclusion: Some of the above indications are evidence based, but others are still in doubt and need more investigations to confirm its efficacy and safety. Regarding to the importance of these natural sterols and β-sitosterol as the most abundant of them, the main pharmacological and biological activities together with their clinical trials is reviewed here.

Ação dos fitoesteróis sobre lesão aterosclerótica em camundongos com ablação gênica do receptor de LDL / Phytosterols effects over atherosclerotic lesion in mice with ablation of the LDL receptor gene

Introdução: Os fitoesteróis (FE) são reconhecidos por reduzirem a concentração plasmática de LDL-colesterol, sendo importantes coadjuvantes no tratamento da hipercolesterolemia moderada. Entretanto, estudos publicados recentemente demonstram resultados conflitantes em relação à eficiência dos FE na prevenção da aterosclerose. Além disso, algumas investigações evidenciaram que o aumento da concentração plasmática de FE está positivamente relacionado ao risco de desenvolvimento de aterosclerose. Com a finalidade de elucidar a sua ação sobre esses parâmetros, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da suplementação de FE no desenvolvimento da aterosclerose em camundongos com ablação gênica para o receptor de LDL (LDLr-KO). Métodos: Os animais foram alimentados durante 16 semanas, com dieta rica em gordura (40% do valor calórico total da dieta), suplementada (grupo FE; 2%, n=10) ou não (Controle; n=10) com FE. Foram avaliadas as concentrações plasmáticas e hepáticas de colesterol, triglicérides, FE (beta-sitosterol, campesterol e latosterol). Na aorta dos animais, determinaram-se as concentrações de colesterol total, colesterol livre e éster e FE, além do infiltrado de macrófagos e infiltrado de lípides. Nos macrófagos do peritôneo dos animais, os quais assemelham-se aos presentes na artéria, avaliou-se a expressão de RNA mensageiro dos genes envolvidos no efluxo e influxo de colesterol (ABCA1, ABCG1, LOX1 e CD36). Também determinou-se as concentrações de FE no intestino e baço dos animais. Resultados: Conforme esperado, o consumo de FE induziu elevação plasmática dos principais FE, campesterol e de beta-sitosterol, reduzindo a concentração de colesterol no plasma. Houve aumento nas concentrações hepáticas de triglicérides e FE, entretanto, não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos nas expressões de RNA mensageiro de genes lipolíticos (CPT, PPAR alfa) e lipogênicos (SREBP1-c, MTP, LXR e PPAR gamma) no fígado. Não houve, também, alteração no SREBP2...

Introduction: The plasma cholesterol-reducing effect of hytosterols (PS) is well recognized and they are considered important adjuncts in the treatment of moderate hypercholesterolemia. However, recent studies have shown conflicting results regarding the efficiency of PS in the prevention of atherosclerosis. In addition, some studies showed that the increase in plasma PS concentration is positively correlated to the risk of atherosclerosis. In order to elucidate its action on these parameters, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of PS supplementation in the development of atherosclerosis in LDL receptor knock-out mice (LDLr -KO). Methods: The animals were fed during 16 weeks with high fat diet (40 % of calories as fat), supplemented (PS group, 2%, n = 10) or not (Control, n = 10) with PS. Plasma and liver concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, PS (beta - sitosterol, campesterol and lathosterol) were evaluated. In the aorta of the animals, the concentrations of total cholesterol, free cholesterol, cholesterol ester and PS, besides macrophage and lipids infiltration were determined. The mRNA expression of genes involved in cholesterol efflux and influx (ABCA1, ABCG1, LOX1 and CD36) were evaluated, in peritoneum macrophage, which resemble those present in the artery. It was also determined the intestine and spleen PS concentrations from the animals of both groups. Results: As expected, PS supplementation induced increasing plasma concentration of the main PS, campesterol and beta -sitosterol and reducing cholesterol plasma concentration. It was observed an increase so intestine and spleen PS concentrations. There was an increase in hepatic triglyceride concentrations and PS, however, no differences were observed between the groups of hepatic mRNA expression of lipolytic (CPT, PPARalfa) and lipogenic genes (SREBP1c, MTP, CPT, LXR, and PPAR gamma). There was no difference on SREBP2...

Phytochemical Investigation and Molecular Profiling by p21 and NF-κB of Chorisia crispiflora Hexane Extract in Human Breast Cancer Cells in Vitro.

Aims: The current study targets two main aims; 1st aim is the phytochemical investigation of the hexane extract of Chorisia crispiflora leaves. The 2nd aim is the evaluation of the invitro cytotoxic activity of the extract then examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying this cytotoxic effect. Study Design: Isolation and identification of the compounds, cytotoxic activity investigation on breast cancer cell line and molecular mechanisms underlying the cytotoxic extract of Chorisia crispiflora which may interfere with several cell signaling pathways and insert anti-cancer effects through the suppression of NF-κB or activation of p21, on breast cancer cell lines MCF-7. Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University and Nationa Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Egypt. The study was completed within 10 months. Methodology: n-hexane extract was tested against breast cancer cell line then investigated for its effect on NF-κB, p21 and DNA fragmentation. The compounds isolated were identified using different spectroscopic techniques. Results: In this regard, three main compounds were isolated; β-sitosterol 1, β-sitosterol 3-glucoside 2 and stigmasterol 3-glucoside 3. The extract exhibited IC50 values of 7 and 4.2 μg/ml following 48 and 72 hrs of treatment; indicating its significant in-vitro cytotoxic activity. This cytotoxic activity was proven to be mediated through down regulation of NF- κB. Conclusion: Our results suggest that n-hexane extract has potent cytotoxic effect on MCF7 cells in addition to down regulation of NF-κB. These findings consequently merit further exploration of the extract in subsequent in-vivo studies and later in controlled clinical trials.

Redução do peso e da glicemia resultante da suplementação de ácido linoleico conjugado e fitosteróis à dieta hiperlipídica de camundongos / Weight and blood glucose reduction resulting from conjugated linoleic acid and phytosterols supplementation on hiperlipidic diets of mice

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as possíveis alterações causadas pela ingestão de ácido linoleico conjugado (CLA) e de fitosteróis no ganho de peso, na glicemia e no perfil lipídico de camundongos alimentados com dieta hiperlipídica. Durante nove semanas, vinte e cinco camundongos Swiss machos receberam dietas hiperlipídicas suplementadas com CLA e/ou fitosteróis, na concentração de 2 por cento. Foram aferidos consumo alimentar, ganho de peso, glicemia em jejum, além dos níveis séricos de colesterol total, triglicérides, HDL colesterol e ácidos graxos livres. O grupo suplementado com CLA e fitosteróis apresentou menor ganho de peso e bom controle glicêmico, quando comparado aos demais grupos. Os resultados encontrados incentivam a continuação de pesquisas que investiguem os efeitos biológicos causados pela suplementação concomitante de CLA e fitosteróis, com possível aplicação na indústria de alimentos.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible changes caused by conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and phytosterols intake in weight gain, blood glucose levels and lipid profile on mice fed with high fat diet. Twenty-five male Swiss mice received for nine weeks high fat diets supplemented with 2 percent of CLA and/or phytosterols. Feed intake, weight gain, blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and free fatty acids were determined. The group supplemented with CLA and phytosterols gained less weight and showed better glycemic control compared to other groups. The results encourage further research to investigate the biological effects caused by supplementation of CLA and phytosterols, with possible application in food industry.

Survey on dietary intake of phytosterols in middle-aged and elderly populations in Guangzhou / 中华临床营养杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the dietary intake of phytosterols in middle-aged and elderly residents in Guangzhou.Methods The dietary data were collected from 599 middle-aged and elderly residents (222 men and 377 women) recruited by stratified cluster random sampling in Guangzhou.All the subjects were surveyed using Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ).The dietary intake of phytosterols was estimated using Chinese data of phytosterol composition of a range of foods.ResultsThe dietary intake of total phytosterols was 336.36 ±142.88 mg/d,which included β-sitosterol 218.53 ± 95.20 mg/d,campesterol 48.33 ± 23.69 mg/d,stigmasterol 36.40 ± 14.38 mg/d,β-sitostanol 30.65 ± 13.62 mg/d,and campestanol 4.67 ±2.77 mg/d.Women had a significantly higher intake of phytosterols than men [ (345.45 ±141.06) mg/d vs.(320.93 ±144.95) mg/d,P=0.0425].Edible oil,vegetable,cereal,and fruit were the four major food sources of phytosterols,representing 37.2％,19.8％,18.5％,and 12.5％ of the total phytosterols intake respectively.Energy-adjusted intake of phytosterols was (42.94 ± 15.66) mg/1000 kJ,and women had a significantly higher intake than men [ (46.04 ±15.90) mg/1000 kJ vs.(37.69 ± 13.76) mg/1000 kJ,P =0.0000 ].ConclusionAmong the middle-aged and elderly residents in Guangzhou,women have higher phytosterols intake than men.

Fitoesteroles y escualeno como hipocolesterolémicos en cinco variedades de semillas de Cucurbita maxima y Cucurbita moschata (calabaza) / Phytosterols and squalene as hypocholesterolemic substances in five varieties of Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata (pumpkin) seeds

Introducción: la semilla de calabaza se ha estudiado y utilizado en el tratamiento de enfermedades parasitarias, hipertrofia benigna prostática, cistitis y como hipoglicemiante.Sin embargo, se desconocen investigaciones que refieran el uso de la semilla de calabaza y sobre todo de los fitoesteroles y escualeno como elementos hipocolesterolémicos en humanos. Objetivo: determinar el contenido de fitoesteroles y escualeno de cinco variedades de semilla de calabaza para su posible uso como hipocolesterolémicos en humanos. Métodos: se estudiaron semillas de calabaza de dos especies, Cucurbita maxima y Cucurbita moschata, de Cuba y México de las variedades Fifí, Marucha, INIVIT C- 88 (cubanas), Chata y Tapatía (mexicanas), se determinó el perfil de fitoesteroles (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, estigmasterol y estigmastenol) y escualeno mediante cromatografía gas-líquido. Resultados: el contenido de extracto etéreo y grasa verdadera en las semillas osciló entre 331,5 y 346; 307 y 336 g/kg, respectivamente. La variedad fifí (Cucurbita moschata) presentó el mayor contenido de material insaponificable (35,0 g/kg), mostró diferencias significativas (p< 0,001) con las demás variedades y superior a las semillas oleaginosas convencionales. La concentración de escualeno y beta-sitosterol resultó superior en la variedad marucha (Cucurbita moschata) (40,27 y 202,59mg/100 g), que indicó diferencias significativas (p< 0,001) con las restantes variedades. Las variedades chata y marucha presentaron el mayor contenido de campesterol (50,08y 49,31 mg/100 g, respectivamente), así como la marucha encontró la mayor concentración de stigmasterol y estigmastenol (1,75y 28,63 mg/100 g), además, los contenidos resultaron superiores a los alimentos vegetales frecuentes en las dietas. Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos en la concentración de los fitoesteroles y escualeno en las variedades analizadas, sugieren el estudio de la semilla de calabaza como posible hipocolesterolémico en humanos

Introduction: the pumpkin seed has been studied and used in the treatment of parasitic diseases, benign prostatic hypertrophy, cystitis and as hypoglycemic substance. However, the research concerning the use of pumpkin seeds and especially the sterols and squalene as hypocholesterolemic elements in humans is unknown. Objective: to determine the phytosterol and squalene content of five varieties of pumpkin seeds for their potential use as hypocholesterolemic compounds in humans. Methods: the pumpkin seeds from two species called Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata from Cuba and Mexico were studied. The varieties were Fifi, Marucha, INIVIT C-88 (Cuban), Tapatía and Chata (Mexican) for which the profile of phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol and stigmastenol) and the squalene were determined using gas-liquid chromatography. Results: the content of ethereal extract and real fat in the seeds ranged 331.5 to 346, and 307 to 336 g/kg, respectively. The variety Fifi (C. moschata) had the highest content of unsaponifiable material (35.0 g/kg) and showed significant differences (p< 0.001) compared with other varieties and above that of conventional oilseeds. The squalene, and beta-sitosterol concentration was higher Marucha (Cucurbita moschata) (40.27 and 202.59 mg/100 g), indicating significant differences (p< 0.001) compared with other varieties. Marucha and Chata varieties exhibited the highest campesterol content (50.08 and 49.31 mg/100 g, respectively), and the Marucha evidenced the largest concentration of stigmasterol and stigmastenol (1.75 and 28.63 mg/100 g); additionally, the amounts contained were above those of the common vegetable food in the diet. Conclusions: the results in phytosterol and squalene concentrations achieved in the studied varieties suggested that the pumpkin seeds be studied as a possible hypocholesterolemic substance for humans

Effects of Phytosterol Supplementation on Lipid Peroxidation Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in a Rat Model

Phytosterols are plant sterols with a chemical structure similar to cholesterol. It has anti-cholesterol, anti-cancer and anti-oxidant properties which are probably mediated by suppression of lipid peroxidation. However, there are limited studies on the effects of phytosterols on lipid peroxidation. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of phytosterols on plasma and tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) of rats exposed to carbon tetrachloride. The rats were divided into four groups of normal control (NC), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), phytosterol (P) and phytosterol+carbon tetrachloride (P+CCl4). The P and P+CCl4 groups were pretreated with subcutaneous phytosterol at 140 mg/kg once weekly for 5 weeks while the NC and CCl4 groups only received olive oil (vehicle). A single oral dose of carbon tetrachloride was then given to rats in the CCl4 and P+CCl4 groups to induce lipid peroxidation. After 24 hours, all the rats were sacrificed and the plasma and tissue MDA were measured. Our results showed carbon tetrachloride had caused significant elevations of the plasma and hepatic MDA of the CCl4 group compared to the NC group. Phytosterol pretreatment (P+CCl4 INTRODUCTION Phytosterols or plant sterols are a group of steroid alcohols, phytochemicals naturally occuring in plants. They have a chemical structure which is similar to cholesterol (Weihrauch & Gardner 1978) and exist in several forms in plants (Law 2000; Katan et al. 2003; Abumweis et al. 2007) including β-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol and cycloartenol (Ostlund 2002). Phytosterols are natural compo-nents found in the human diet. It made up 0.1 to 0.5% w/w of vegetable oils or margerine (Kochlar 1983) and are also found in corn, wheat and rice. Phytosterol intake varies according to the type of diet taken. Europeans consume about 200-300 mg/day of phytosterol (Morton et al. 1995) while the vegetarian Japanese have a higher intake of phytosterol (Nair et al. 1984). group) were able to prevent the MDA elevations. Phytosterols treatments in normal rats (P group) were found to reduce the hepatic MDA level. The conclusion of this study was that phytosterols are effective suppressor of plasma and hepatic lipid peroxidation. They have potential as supplements to further reduce lipid peroxidation in healthy individuals.

Efeitos da suplementação de manteiga e margarinas no metabolismo lipídico e inflamação de portadores de síndrome metabólica que mantiveram seus hábitos usuais de vida / Effects of butter and margarines supplementation in the lipid metabolism and inflammation of metabolic syndrome individuals in free living state

Introdução: O consumo de manteigas e margarinas faz parte do hábito alimentar da população e é uma forma eficaz de suplementação de ácidos graxos. No entanto, até o momento se desconhece os efeitos de ácidos graxos saturados, trans, monoinsaturados, poliinsaturados e de fitosteróis no perfil lipídico, inflamatório, de marcadores de disfunção endotelial e no metabolismo da HDL em indivíduos com síndrome metabólica (SM). Objetivo: Examinar os efeitos do consumo diário de manteiga, margarina com ácido graxo trans, margarina com fitosterol e margarina sem ácido graxo trans, em quantidades recomendadas por diretrizes, sobre: 1) o perfil lipídico, apolipoproteínas (Apo), marcadores inflamatórios e de disfunção endotelial e transferência de lipídeos para HDL, em indivíduos com SM, sem alterar seus hábitos usuais de vida, 2) a associação desses parâmetros com a composição nutricional das dietas dos indivíduos estudados. Métodos: Este estudo foi randomizado, cego, onde 100 indivíduos receberam porções diárias isocalóricas de manteiga ou margarina com ácido graxo trans ou margarina com fitosterol ou margarina sem ácido graxo trans em adição às suas dietas usuais, por 5 semanas. Foram determinados: perfil lipídico, Apos, marcadores inflamatórios e de disfunção endotelial, LDL pequenas e densas e transferências de lipídeos para a HDL. Diferenças entre os grupos foram avaliados por ANOVA. Resultados: A amostra final foi composta por 66 indivíduos (63,6% mulheres, idade média 47,6 anos). Houve redução de -10,3% na Apo B (p=0,043) e de -15,2% na razão Apo B/Apo A-I (p=0,034) após consumo de margarina com fitosterol. Não foram verificadas diferenças significativas nos lípides após consumo de manteiga, margarina com trans ou margarina sem trans. Transferências de fosfolípides foram reduzidas no grupo margarina com fitosterol (-4,7% vs. margarina com trans p=0,037); no grupo margarina sem trans foram reduzidas as transferências de: colesterol éster (-27% vs. manteiga...

Introduction: The consumption of butter and margarines are part of population dietary habits and is an effective form of fatty acid supplementation. However, the effects of saturated, trans, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and of plant sterol supplementation in the lipid profile, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction markers, and in the metabolism of HDL in individuals with the metabolic syndrome (MS) are unknown. Objective: Examine the effects of daily servings of butter, trans fat margarine, no trans fat margarine, and plant sterol margarine, within guideline recommended amounts, on: 1) plasma lipids, apolipoproteins (Apo), biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction and on the lipid transfer of radioactive lipids to HDL particles in free-living subjects with the MS, 2) to analyze the association of these parameters with the nutritional composition of the individuals' diets. Methods: This was a randomized, single-blind study where 100 MS subjects received isocaloric servings of butter, trans fat margarine, no-trans fat margarine or plant sterol margarine in addition to their usual diets for 5 weeks. The main outcome measures were plasma lipids, Apo, inflammatory and endothelial dysfunction markers, small dense LDL cholesterol concentration and in vitro radioactive lipid transfer from cholesterol-rich emulsions to HDL. Difference among groups was evaluated by ANOVA. Results: Sixty-six subjects completed the study (63.6% women, mean age 47.6 years). There was a significant reduction in Apo B (-10.3 %, p=0.043) and in the Apo B/A-1 ratio (-15.2%, p=0.034) with plant sterol margarine. No changes in plasma lipids were noticed with butter, trans fat margarine and no-trans fat margarine. Transfer rates of lipids to HDL were reduced in the plant sterol margarine group: phospholipids -4.7% (p=0.037 vs. trans fat margarine) and in the no-trans fat margarine group: triglycerides -43.3%, (P<0.001 vs. other groups), cholesterol ester -27%...