FT-MIR-ATR Associated with Chemometrics Methods: A Preliminary Analysis of Deterioration State of Brazil Nut Oil.

Brazil nut oil is highly valued in the food, cosmetic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as other sectors of the economy. This work aims to use the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) technique associated with partial least squares regression (PLSR) and principal component analysis (PCA) to demonstrate that these methods can be used in a prior and rapid analysis in quality control. Natural oils were extracted and stored for chemical analysis. PCA presented two groups regarding the state of degradation, subdivided into super-degraded and partially degraded groups in 99.88% of the explained variance. The applied PLS reported an acidity index (AI) prediction model with root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC) = 1.8564, root mean square error of cross-validation (REMSECV) = 4.2641, root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) = 2.1491, R2cal (calibration correlation coefficient) equal to 0.9679, R2val (validation correlation coefficient) equal to 0.8474, and R2pred (prediction correlation coefficient) equal to 0, 8468. The peroxide index (PI) prediction model showed RMSEC = 0.0005, REMSECV = 0.0016, RMSEP = 0.00079, calibration R2 equal to 0.9670, cross-validation R2 equal to 0.7149, and R2 of prediction equal to 0.9099. The physical-chemical analyses identified that five samples fit in the food sector and the others fit in other sectors of the economy. In this way, the preliminary monitoring of the state of degradation was reported, and the prediction models of the peroxide and acidity indexes in Brazil nut oil for quality control were determined.

Evaluation of the Neuroprotective Effect of Organic Selenium Compounds: An in Vitro Model of Alzheimer's Disease.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for human health and plays an important role in the development and maintenance of central nervous system functions. Se deficiency has been associated with cognitive decline and increased oxidative stress. The increase in oxidative stress is one of the hypotheses for the emergence and worsening of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). To investigate the neuroprotective effects of organic Se compounds in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) differentiated into cholinergic neurons-like. The SH-SY5Y cells were differentiated into cholinergic neuron-like with retinoic acid (RA) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). AD was mimicked exposing the cells to okadaic acid (OA) and beta-amyloid protein (Aß). The neuroprotective effect of organic Se compounds, selenomethionine (SeMet) and Ebselen, was evaluated through cell viability tests, acetylcholinesterase and antioxidant enzyme activities, and detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS). None of the SeMet concentrations tested protected against the toxic effect of OA + Aß. On the other hand, previous exposure to 0.1 and 1 µM Ebselen protected cells from the toxic effect of OA + Aß. Cell differentiation induced by RA and BDNF exposure was effective, showing characteristics of neuronal cells, and pointing to a promising model of AD. Ebselen showed a protective effect, but more studies are needed to identify the mechanism of action.

New alternative for adsorption of 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid herbicide (2, 4-D)

The adsorptive capacity of charcoal from the husk of the brazil nut fruit, called "ouriço" (the hard ball with nuts inside) for the herbicide dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was evaluated. Activated carbons were produced from the brazil nut in a tubular oven at 800 °C and activated with CO2 or water steam. The specific surface area was determined by the Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) method, demonstrating the mean density of micropores. Analysis of N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms was undertaken and the morphology of activated carbons was visualized by Scanning Microscopy (SEM). The activated carbons were successfully obtained and had a specific surface area of 395 m2.g-1 and 401 m2.g-1 after activation with either CO2 or water steam, respectively. The highest pore mean density occurred with a diameter of 1.17 nm for carbons activated in both atmospheres. The graph of the adsorption/desorption isotherms of N2 showed Type I isotherms, regardless of the activation atmosphere. The SEM analysis showed that, for both activation atmospheres, pore formation occurred in the shape of uniform honeycomb craters. Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second order model, indicating chemisorption. Regardless of the activation atmosphere, the activated carbon from the brazil nut "ouriço", was highly efficient for 2,4-D adsorption.

Amazonian fruits with potential effects on COVID-19 by inflammaging modulation: A narrative review.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a great impact on the mortality of older adults and, chronic non- transmissible diseases (CNTDs) patients, likely previous inflammaging condition that is common in these subjects. It is possible that functional foods could attenuate viral infection conditions such as SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), the causal agent of COVID-19 pandemic. Previous evidence suggested that some fruits consumed by Amazonian Diet from Pre-Colombian times could present relevant proprieties to decrease of COVID-19 complications such as oxidative-cytokine storm. In this narrative review we identified five potential Amazonian fruits: açai berry (Euterpe oleracea), camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia), cocoa (Theobroma cacao), Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa), and guaraná (Paullinia cupana). Data showed that these Amazonian fruits present antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other immunomodulatory activities that could attenuate the impact of inflammaging states that potentially decrease the evolution of COVID-19 complications. The evidence compiled here supports the complementary experimental and clinical studies exploring these fruits as nutritional supplement during COVID-19 infection. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: These fruits, in their natural form, are often limited to their region, or exported to other places in the form of frozen pulp or powder. But there are already some companies producing food supplements in the form of capsules, in the form of oils and even functional foods enriched with these fruits. This practice is common in Brazil and tends to expand to the international market.

Effect of Brazil Nuts on Selenium Status, Blood Lipids, and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

Tree nuts, including Brazil nuts, have been hypothesized to impact cardiovascular health through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation. Nonetheless, a quantitative analysis of these effects has not been performed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically revise and quantify the effect of Brazil nut intervention on selenium status, blood lipids, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation using a meta-analytical approach. To meet the goals of this study, a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases of published randomised clinical trials reporting on dietary interventions with Brazil nuts and their effects on selenium status, blood lipids, and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation was performed. Eight articles were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. Based on the conducted analysis, a significant positive effect of Brazil nuts on selenium blood concentration (SMD = 6.93, 95% CI: 3.99; 9.87) was found. Additionally, a positive effect of Brazil nut intervention on glutathione peroxidase activity (SMD = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.07; 0.99) was observed. However, no significant results were found when considering blood lipid levels, including results for total cholesterol (SMD = -0.22, 95% CI: -0.57; 0.14), HDL cholesterol (SMD = -0.04, 95% CI: -0.28; 0.19) and LDL cholesterol (SMD = -0.15; 95% CI: -0.43; 0.13). In conclusion, the findings from this study suggest that Brazil nut consumption improves selenium status and exerts antioxidant effects, which could be considered a potential pathway for the prevention of metabolic disorders related to altered blood lipid profiles. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the effect of Brazil nuts toward blood lipid profile, also preferably controlling for other biomarkers.

Selenium in Brazil nuts: An overview of agronomical aspects, recent trends in analytical chemistry, and health outcomes.

Se is an essential element in mammals. We review how its bioavailability in soil and the ability of plants to accumulate Se in foods depends on the soil Se profile (including levels and formats), besides to describe how the various selenoproteins have important biochemical functions in the body and directly impact human health. Owing to its favorable characteristics, the scientific community has investigated selenomethionine in most nut matrices. Among nuts, Brazil nuts have been highlighted as one of the richest sources of bioavailable Se. We summarize the most commonly used analytical methods for Se species and total Se determination in nuts. We also discuss the chemical forms of Se metabolized by mammals, human biochemistry and health outcomes from daily dietary intake of Se from Brazil nuts. These findings may facilitate the understanding of the importance of adequate dietary Se intake and enable researchers to define methods to determine Se species.

Brazil Nut Supplementation Does Not Regulate PPARß/δ Signaling Pathway in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Coronary Artery Disease Patients.

Background: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)ß/δ activation is a potential target for modulation of inflammation in cardiovascular disease. PPARß/δ activation depends on the presence of a ligand, which may be pharmacological or natural, such as bioactive compounds and nutrients. Due to its composition, rich in selenium and unsaturated fatty acids, Brazil nuts have been related to reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in chronic non-communicable diseases and could regulate PPARß/δ. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Brazil nut supplementation on PPARß/δ mRNA expression in patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).Methods: A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial was performed with 36 CAD patients. Patients were randomly assigned to either the Supplementation group or the control group and followed up for three months. The Supplementation group consumed 1 Brazil nut/day; the control group did not receive any intervention. At the baseline and after three months, analysis of gene expression and biochemical parameters linked to inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress was carried out.Results: In the supplementation group, no significant change was observed in PPARß/δ (0.9 ± 0.5 vs 1.2 ± 0.6; p = 0.178) and NF-κB (1.6 ± 1.5 vs 0.8 ± 0.30, p = 0.554) mRNA expression. There were no significant changes in both groups concerning all the other biochemical parameters.Conclusion: One Brazil nut per day for three months was not able to increase the PPARß/δ expression in CAD patients.

Acute consumption of a shake containing cashew and Brazil nuts did not affect appetite in overweight subjects: a randomized, cross-over study.

PURPOSE: Evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies suggests that nut consumption provides satiety and may contribute to the management of obesity. However, the effect of acute intake of nuts on appetite responses remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of a shake containing 30 g of cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale L.) and 15 g of Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K) on appetite responses in overweight subjects. METHODS: This was a clinical, randomized, controlled, single-blind, cross-over, pilot study. On two non-consecutive test days, 15 subjects received a shake containing nuts, and a shake absent of nuts matched for energy and macronutrient content. Subjective appetite sensation was evaluated by visual analogue scales (VAS). Food intake was measured by weighing the lunch served at the end of each morning-test, which subjects ate ad libitum. Total energy intake was estimated by food records. This study is registered on the Brazilian Registers of Clinical Trials-ReBEC (protocol: U1111-1203-9891). RESULTS: We observed no significant difference in subjective appetite sensations between the groups. Food intake at lunch, as well as energy intake throughout the day also did not differ between the treatments. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the acute intake of a shake containing nuts was not able to enhance satiety, compared to a shake matched for energy and macronutrient content. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the satiety mechanisms of nuts intake.

Patterns of biodiversity response along a gradient of forest use in Eastern Amazonia, Brazil.

The preservation of tropical forests is increasingly at risk, including forests located within human-modified landscapes that retain high conservation value. People modify and interact with these landscapes through a wide range of uses. However, our knowledge of how different forest uses affect biodiversity is limited. Here, we analyse the responses of different taxa to four distinct categories of forest management, namely old-growth forest, Brazil nut extraction areas, reduced impact logging areas, and eucalyptus plantations. Within six independent replicates of each category, we sampled three taxa (fruit-feeding butterflies, dung beetles, and trees) in eastern Amazonia. Forests under moderate use (Brazil nut extraction and reduced-impact logging) had similar, albeit slightly lower, diversity levels relative to old-growth forests, while communities in plantations were significantly less diverse. Only 4%, 20%, and 17%, of the sampled butterfly, dung beetle, and tree species, respectively, were restricted to old-growth forests. This study provides further empirical evidence of the importance of old-growth forest conservation in the context of human-modified landscapes. It also suggests that landscape matrices integrating forest uses at varying intensities are well positioned to reconcile biodiversity conservation with the production of goods that support local livelihoods.

Effect of temperature on growth, gene expression, and aflatoxin production by Aspergillus nomius isolated from Brazil nuts.

Aspergillus nomius is a potent producer of aflatoxins B and G and is one of the most common species of fungi found in Brazil nuts. Temperature is considered a major abiotic factor that influences fungal colonization and aflatoxin production in nuts during pre- and post-harvest. Therefore, assessment of the response of aflatoxigenic species to different temperatures is important to add information about the understanding of aflatoxin production by Aspergillus nomius and may help in the development of new strategies to prevent aflatoxin contamination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of temperature (25, 30, and 35 °C) on the radial growth, aflatoxin production (B and G), and aflatoxin gene expression of seven A. nomius strains isolated from Brazil nuts. The optimal temperature for growth was 30 °C and was also the best condition for the expression of the aflR, aflD, and aflQ genes. However, maximum production of aflatoxins B and G occurred at 25 °C. Interestingly, high expression of the structural gene aflQ was observed in the maximum aflatoxin production condition (25 °C). The present study demonstrates that temperature may influence aflatoxin production by A. nomius. The combination of molecular and physiological data aids the understanding of the aflatoxigenic species response to different temperatures and can assist in predicting the driving environmental factors that influence aflatoxin contamination of Brazil nuts.

Comparison of the Effects of Brazil Nut Oil and Soybean Oil on the Cardiometabolic Parameters of Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Trial.

Recent evidence suggests that replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fat is beneficial for cardiovascular health. This study compared the effects of Brazil nut oil (BNO) and soybean oil (SO) supplementation for 30 days on anthropometric, blood pressure, biochemical, and oxidative parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome (MS). Thirty-one patients with MS were randomly allocated to receive 30 sachets with 10 mL each of either BNO (n = 15) or SO (n = 16) for daily supplementation. Variables were measured at the beginning of the study and after 30 days of intervention. No change in anthropometric and blood pressure variables were observed (p > 0.05). Total (p = 0.0253) and low-density lipoprotein (p = 0.0437) cholesterol increased in the SO group. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased (p = 0.0087) and triglycerides increased (p = 0.0045) in the BNO group. Malondialdehyde levels decreased in the BNO group (p = 0.0296) and total antioxidant capacity improved in the SO group (p = 0.0110). Although the addition of oils without lifestyle interventions did not affect anthropometric findings or blood pressure and promoted undesirable results in the lipid profile in both groups, daily supplementation of BNO for 30 days decreased lipid peroxidation, contributing to oxidative stress reduction.

Understanding Mycotoxin Contamination Across the Food Chain in Brazil: Challenges and Opportunities.

Brazil is one of the largest food producers and exporters in the world. In the late 20th century, the European Union program for the harmonization of regulations for contaminants in food, including mycotoxins, led to the examination of mycotoxin contamination in foods at a global level. The problem of the rejection of food by the European Union and other countries became a Brazilian national priority because of economic and food safety aspects. Ochratoxin A in coffee and cocoa and aflatoxins in Brazil nuts are examples of the impact of technical trade barriers on Brazilian foods. To overcome these threats, several strategies were undertaken by Brazilian and international organizations. In this context, the Codex Commission on Food Contaminants (CCCF) has emerged as a forum to discuss with more transparency issues related to mycotoxins, focusing on establishing maximum levels and codes of practices for some commodities and mycotoxins to ensure fair trade and food safety. Our experience in investigating and understanding mycotoxin contamination across the food chains in Brazil has contributed nationally and internationally to providing some answers to these issues.

Suplementação de minerais por meio da castanha-do-brasil pode modular a microbiota intestinal de indivíduos saudáveis / Mineral supplementation through Brazil nuts can modulate the intestinal microbiota of healthy individuals

A castanha-do-brasil é um alimento de alta complexidade nutricional, devido ao alto teor de selênio, micronutriente com ação antioxidante e anti-inflamatória, e de outros importantes componentes, como fibras, ácidos graxos insaturados, compostos fenólicos e diversos minerais, como zinco, cobre e magnésio. Essa noz é amplamente consumida pela população brasileira e mundial e seus efeitos à saúde devem ser compreendidos em todas as vertentes. Até o momento, não eram conhecidos os efeitos da ingestão dessa castanha na constituição de bactérias intestinais, cuja relevância vem sendo exponencialmente comprovada na literatura nacional e mundial devido sua participação em importantes processos no contexto saúde e doença. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição da microbiota intestinal e o perfil de minerais (metaloma) no organismo após a ingestão de castanha-do-brasil (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.). Este estudo prospectivo foi composto por 97 indivíduos sem doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, de ambos os gêneros, com idade média de 28,7 ± 8,5 anos. Os participantes foram avaliados antes e após a suplementação de uma unidade de castanha-do-brasil (~370 µg de selênio) por dia, durante 60 dias, quanto ao status de minerais (plasma, eritrócitos e fezes), atividade da enzima glutationa peroxidase (GPX), concentração de selenoproteína P (SEPP), avaliação da ingestão alimentar (recordatório alimentar de 24 horas) e caracterização do microbioma intestinal. Os dados brutos do microbioma foram analisados por meio do software Quantitative Insight into Microbial Ecology (v1.9.0) e a estatística foi realizada utilizando o pacote R (v1.1.463). Nossos resultados indicaram que a castanha-do-brasil melhorou significativamente o status de selênio da população, de acordo com o aumento expressivo das concentrações no organismo (plasma, eritrócitos e fezes) e de seus marcadores funcionais (selenoproteína P e atividade da GPX) (p<0,0001). A intervenção também alterou a concentração de outros elementos químicos (cobalto, arsênio, manganês, bário, chumbo, cobre, zinco, alumínio, ferro e magnésio) no plasma, eritrócitos e fezes (p<0,001). Esse estudo foi inédito em reportar os efeitos da intervenção com castanha-do-brasil na comunidade bacteriana intestinal. Apesar da composição global do microbioma intestinal não ter sido alterada após a ingestão de castanha, a abundância de gêneros importantes à saúde humana, como Faecalibacterium, Bilophila e Bulleidia, foi aumentada. Além disso, o perfil metalômico nas fezes também influenciou a constituição e distribuição de grupos bacterianos, após o consumo da noz. Observamos também correlações significativas entre os minerais avaliados e as bactérias produtoras de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, como Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira e Coprococcus. Portanto, pode-se concluir que a intervenção com castanha-dobrasil beneficiou a constituição e distribuição da microbiota intestinal e evidenciou a influência do perfil metalômico nas fezes sobre grupos bacterianos importantes à saúde humana

Brazil nut is a food of high nutritional complexity, due to the high selenium content, micronutrient with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, and other important components such as fibers, unsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds and various minerals, like zinc, copper and magnesium. This nut is widely consumed by the Brazilian and world population and its health effects must be understood in all aspects. To date, the effects of ingestion of this nut on the constitution of intestinal bacteria were unknown, whose relevance has been exponentially proven in the national and world literature due to its participation in important processes of health and disease. In this sense, the objective of this work was to evaluate the composition of the intestinal microbiota and the mineral profile (metalloma) in the organism after ingestion of Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excels H.B.K.). This prospective study consisted of 97 subjects without chronic noncommunicable diseases of both genders, with a mean age of 28.7 ± 8.5 years. Participants were evaluated before and after supplementation with one unit of Brazil nut (~ 370 µg selenium) per day for 60 days for mineral status (plasma, erythrocytes and feces), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), selenoprotein P (SEPP) concentration, assessment of food intake (24-hour dietary recall) and characterization of the intestinal microbiome. Raw microbiome data were analyzed using Quantitative Insight into Microbial Ecology software (v1.9.0) and statistics were performed using the R package (v1.1.463). Our results indicated that Brazil nuts significantly improved the selenium status of the population, according to the significant increase in concentrations in the body (plasma, erythrocytes and feces) and its functional markers (selenoprotein P and GPX activity) (p <0.0001). The intervention also altered the concentration of other chemical elements (cobalt, arsenic, manganese, barium, lead, copper, zinc, aluminum, iron and magnesium) in plasma, erythrocytes and feces (p <0.001). This study was unprecedented in reporting the effects of Brazil nut intervention on the intestinal bacterial community. Although the overall composition of the intestinal microbiome did not change after ingestion of nuts, the abundance of genera important to human health, such as Faecalibacterium, Bilophila and Bulleidia, was increased. In addition, the metallomic profile in faeces also influenced the constitution and distribution of bacterial groups after nut consumption. We also observed significant correlations between the evaluated minerals and short chain fatty acid producing bacteria, such as Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira and Coprococcus. Therefore, it can be concluded that the intervention with Brazil nuts benefited the constitution and distribution of the intestinal microbiota and evidenced the influence of the fecal metallomic profile on bacterial groups important to human health

A suplementação de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 com castanha-do-brasil, pode alterar o estado nutricional relativo ao selênio, o grau de inflamação e a microbiota intestinal? / Can supplementation of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with brazil nuts affect the nutritional status of selenium, the degree of inflammation and the intestinal microbiota?

O diabetes mellitus tipo 2 está intimamente ligado a formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio, as quais aumentam os produtos de glicação avançada e consequentemente a inflamação e o desenvolvimento das complicações associadas a doença. Nesse contexto, destaca-se o papel do microbioma intestinal, visto que esta pode ser capaz de modificar fatores ligados ao sistema imune e sua modulação pode ser uma boa alternativa para melhora do quadro inflamatório e complicações da doença. A castanha-do-brasil, fonte de selênio, além de outros nutrientes, poderia atuar no sistema de defesa antioxidante e anti-inflamatório, além de influenciar a microbiota intestinal, resultando benefícios aos pacientes. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar estes efeitos da suplementação de indivíduos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2, com uma nóz de castanha-do-brasil (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) por dia, durante 60 dias. Para tanto, foi delineado um ensaio clínico, longitudinal, com 29 pacientes voluntários com diabetes mellitus tipo 2, atendidos no Ambulatório de Endocrinologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Os participantes foram avaliados antes e após a intervenção, e realizaram uma coleta de fezes (caracterização da microbiota intestinal e concentração de selênio) e uma coleta de sangue (análises de status de selênio, marcadores inflamatórios, glicêmicos e lipídicos, e da permeabilidade intestinal), a avaliação da ingestão alimentar foi por meio de Registro Alimentar de 3 dias Inicialmente, determinou-se a composição centesimal e a concentração de selênio da castanha-do-brasil utilizada. A análise bioinformática foi conduzida usando o Quantitative Insight into Microbial Ecology (QIIME, versão 1.9.0). A análise estatística foi realizada com os softwares Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 23.0, e R versão 1.1.463. A concentração de selênio na castanha in natura foi de 79,8µg/g. A idade média dos participantes foi 54,9±3,6 anos. A ingestão de castanha-do-brasil foi capaz de melhorar significativamente os parâmetros: concentrações de selênio no plasma (Δ 95,82, p<0,001), nos eritrócitos (Δ 163,16, p<0,001) e nas fezes (Δ 166,31 p<0,001), assim como na selenoproteína P (Δ 5,36 p<0,026) e atividade da enzima glutationa peroxidase (Δ 30,61 p<0,040) e redução da hemoglobina glicada (Δ -0,8, p=0,001). No entanto, não houve alteração do perfil lipídico, inflamatório, ingestão alimentar e marcadores antropométricos. Apesar de não verificarmos mudança na composição global da microbiota intestinal, a diversidade interpessoal (ß diversidade) variou conforme a concentração de selenoproteína P (p=0,03) e porcentagem de hemoglobina glicada (p=0,04). A suplementação com castanha-do-brasil melhorou o perfil glicêmico e o status de selênio. Apesar de não ser observada influência na composição global da microbiota, a segregação observada indica certa resistência da microbiota frente a intervenção com a castanha

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is closely linked to the formation of reactive oxygen species, such as those that increase advanced glycation products (AGEs) and, consequently, inflammation and the development of complications associated with this disease. In this context, the study of the intestinal microbiome is of extreme importance, since it may be able to alter the factors related to the immune system and its modulation may be a good alternative for the improvement of the clinical and inflammatory status. Brazil nut is rich in selenium, in addition to other nutrients, which could act in the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant defense system and influence intestinal microbiota composition. Therefore, this study had the objective of determining the supplementation with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This longitudinal clinical trial was designed with 29 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, attended at the Endocrinology Outpatient Clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina of the University of São Paulo. The intervention with Brazil nuts lasted 60 days and the participants were evaluated before and after by a collection of feces (intestinal microbiota characterization and selenium concentration) and blood collection (analyzes of selenium status, inflammatory markers, glycemic and lipid levels, and intestinal permeability), and dietary intake by means of a 3-day Food Registry. Initially, the centesimal composition and the selenium concentration of the nut were determined used. Bioinformatic analysis was conducted using the Quantitative Insight into Microbial Ecology (QIIME, version 1.9.0). Statistical analysis was performed with the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 23.0, and R version 1.1.463. The concentration of selenium in the nut in natura was 79.8 µg / g. The mean age of the participants was 54.9 ± 3.6 years, the mean time of diagnosis of the disease was 11.7 ± 6.9 years. The Brazil nut intake was able to significantly improve the parameters: plasma selenium concentrations (Δ 95,82, p<0,001), nem da circunferência da cintura (Δ-1 p=0,217) and GPX (Δ30.61 p <0.040) and reduction in HbA1c (Δ -0.8, p = 0.001). However, there were no changes in the lipid profile, inflammation, food intake and anthropometric markers. Although we did not verify a change in the global composition of the intestinal microbiota, the interpersonal diversity (ß diversity) varied according to the concentration of SELENOP (p = 0.03) and HbA1c percentage (p = 0.04). We conclude that brazil nut supplementation improved the glycemic profile and the status of selenium. Although no influence was observed on the overall composition of the microbiota, the observed segregation indicates some resistance of the microbiota to the intervention with the chestnut

Prior intake of Brazil nuts attenuates renal injury induced by ischemia and reperfusion / A ingestão prévia de castanha-do-brasil atenua a lesão renal induzida por isquemia e reperfusão

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury results from inflammation and oxidative stress, among other factors. Because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the Brazil nut (BN) might attenuate IR renal injury. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the intake of BN prevents or reduces IR kidney injury and inflammation, improving renal function and decreasing oxidative stress. Methods: Male Wistar rats were distributed into six groups (N=6/group): SHAM (control), SHAM treated with 75 or 150 mg of BN, IR, and IR treated with 75 or 150 mg of BN. The IR procedure consisted of right nephrectomy and occlusion of the left renal artery with a non-traumatic vascular clamp for 30 min. BN was given daily and individually for 7 days before surgery (SHAM or IR) and maintained until animal sacrifice (48h after surgery). We evaluated the following parameters: plasma creatinine, urea, and phosphorus; proteinuria, urinary output, and creatinine clearance; plasmatic TBARS and TEAC; kidney expression of iNOS and nitrotyrosine, and macrophage influx. Results: Pre-treatment with 75 mg of BN attenuated IR-induced renal changes, with elevation of creatinine clearance and urinary output, reducing proteinuria, urea, and plasmatic phosphorus as well as reducing kidney expression of iNOS, nitrotyrosine, and macrophage influx. Conclusion: Low intake of BN prior to IR-induced kidney injury improves renal function by inhibition of macrophage infiltration and oxidative stress.

RESUMO Introdução: a lesão por isquemia-reperfusão (IR) resulta, entre outros fatores, de inflamação e estresse oxidativo. Devido às suas propriedades anti-inflamatórias e antioxidantes, a castanha-do-brasil (BN) pode atenuar a lesão renal causada por IR. Objetivo: O objetivo foi investigar se a ingestão prévia de BN reduz a lesão e a inflamação renal causadas por IR, melhorando a função renal e o estresse oxidativo. Métodos: Ratos Wistar machos foram distribuídos em seis grupos (N=6/grupo): SHAM (controle), SHAM tratado com 75 ou 150 mg de BN, IR, e IR tratado com 75 ou 150 mg de BN. O procedimento de IR consistiu na nefrectomia à direita e oclusão da artéria renal esquerda por 30 minutos. A castanha foi administrada diariamente e individualmente por sete dias antes da cirurgia (SHAM ou IR), e mantida até o sacrifício (48h pós-cirurgia). Os seguintes parâmetros foram avaliados: creatinina, ureia e fósforo plasmáticos; proteinúria, volume urinário e depuração de creatinina; TBARS e TEAC (capacidade antioxidante) plasmáticos; expressão renal de iNOS e nitrotirosina, e influxo de macrófagos. Resultados: O pré-tratamento com 75 mg de BN atenuou os parâmetros de função renal alterados pela IR, com elevação da depuração de creatinina e o volume urinário, redução da proteinúria, ureia e fósforo plasmáticos, e diminuição da expressão de iNOS, nitrotirosina e da infiltração de macrófagos. Conclusão: A ingestão de baixa quantidade de BN, previamente ao processo de IR, melhora a função renal pela inibição da infiltração de macrófagos e do estresse oxidativo.

Commentary: Health Concerns of Brazil Nut Consumption.

Brazil nuts are the fruit of the enormous tropical tree Bertholletia excelsa that are produced in and exported from the territory of the Amazon. As a natural rich source of selenium (Se), the consumption of Brazil nuts is often suggested as therapeutic among patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases. In this review, the current knowledge regarding the main health concerns of Brazil nut consumption, such as Se toxicity, Se-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus, weight gain, radioactivity, aflatoxins, and allergic reactions, is presented and discussed.

SEPP1 polymorphisms modulate serum glucose and lipid response to Brazil nut supplementation.

PURPOSE: The consumption of Brazil nuts has been associated with benefits to lipid metabolism and reductions in total cholesterol and LDL concentrations. They are the richest natural source of selenium which has essential functions in human physiology. Genetic polymorphisms in Selenoprotein P could impair lipid and glucose metabolisms. The aim of this work was to verify the influence of polymorphisms in genes for selenoproteins on blood lipid levels after dietary supplementation with Brazil nuts in healthy adults. METHODS: The study included 130 healthy volunteers selected at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. They were supplemented with one nut a day for 8 weeks, followed by 8 weeks without intervention. The following analyses were performed: anthropometric measurements, serum fasting glucose, lipid profile, C-reactive protein and plasma MDA levels. The volunteers were genotyped for SNPs rs1050450, rs3811699, rs1800699, rs713041, rs3877899, rs7579, rs34713741, and rs5845 in genes for selenoproteins. RESULTS: The concentrations of total cholesterol and fasting glucose levels decreased after 8 weeks of supplementation (p < 0.05). Glucose levels were modulated by rs3877899 in SEPP1, with significantly lower levels observed for individuals with the GA + AA genotype (p = 0.025). In addition, rs7579 was associated with cholesterol concentrations, which were significantly lower for individuals with the GG genotype (p = 0.053). CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with one Brazil nut a day for 8 weeks reduced total cholesterol and glucose levels. Furthermore, our results suggest that rs3877899 might be associated with glucose concentrations and rs7579 with cholesterol concentrations. Therefore, the effect of genetic variations should be considered in future nutritional interventions evaluating the response to Brazil nut supplementation.

Supplementation with Brazil nuts and green tea extract regulates targeted biomarkers related to colorectal cancer risk in humans.

Se and green tea have been shown in epidemiological, observational and preclinical studies to be inversely related to the risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there are limited studies to evaluate their regulatory effects on genes/proteins that relate to CRC oncogenesis in human subjects, such as selenoproteins, WNT signalling pathway, inflammation and methylation. This study examined the effects of supplementation of Se using Brazil nuts and green tea extract (GTE) capsules, alone and in combination, on targeted biomarkers. In total, thirty-two volunteers (>50 years of age) with plasma Se≤1·36 µmol/l were randomised to one of three treatment groups: nine to Se (approximately 48 µg/d) as six Brazil nuts, eleven to four GTE capsules (800 mg (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate) and twelve to a combination of Brazil nuts and GTE. Blood and rectal biopsies were obtained before and after each intervention. Plasma Se levels, rectal selenoprotein P (SePP) and ß-catenin mRNA increased significantly in subjects consuming Brazil nuts alone or in combination, whereas rectal DNA methyltransferase (DNMT1) and NF-κB mRNA were reduced significantly in subjects consuming GTE alone or in combination. None of the interventions significantly affected rectal acetylated histone H3 or Ki-67 expression at the protein level or plasma C-reactive protein. Effects of the combination of Brazil nuts and GTE did not differ from what would be expected from either agent alone. In conclusion, supplementation of Brazil nuts and/or GTE regulates targeted biomarkers related to CRC oncogenesis, specifically genes associated with selenoproteins (SePP), WNT signalling (ß-catenin), inflammation (NF-κB) and methylation (DNMT1). Their combination does not appear to provide additional effects compared with either agent alone.

Effects of Brazil nut consumption on selenium status and cognitive performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled pilot trial.

PURPOSE: Oxidative stress is closely related to cognitive impairment, and the antioxidant system may be a potential therapeutic target to preserve cognitive function in older adults. Selenium plays an important antioxidant role through selenoproteins. This controlled trial aimed to investigate the antioxidant and cognitive effects of the consumption of Brazil nuts, the best selenium food source. METHODS: We enrolled 31 older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who were randomly assigned to ingestion of Brazil nuts or to the control group. Participants of the treatment group consumed one Brazil nut daily (estimated 288.75 µg/day) for 6 months. Blood selenium concentrations, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, and malondialdehyde were evaluated. Cognitive functions were assessed with the CERAD neuropsychological battery. RESULTS: Eleven participants of the treated group and nine of the control group completed the trial. The mean age of the participants was 77.7 (±5.3) years, 70 % of whom were female. We observed increased selenium levels after the intervention, whereas the control group presented no change. Among the parameters related to the antioxidant system, only erythrocyte GPx activity change was significantly different between the groups (p = 0.006). After 6 months, improvements in verbal fluency (p = 0.007) and constructional praxis (p = 0.031) were significantly greater on the supplemented group when compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the intake of Brazil nut restores selenium deficiency and provides preliminary evidence that Brazil nut consumption can have positive effects on some cognitive functions of older adults with MCI.