Nutrition
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can exert detrimental effects in the lower digestive tract. The aim of this study was to examine the protective effects of a combination of the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 (Bifidobacterium) with the prebiotic lactoferrin in a rat model of diclofenac-induced enteropathy. ⋯ Diclofenac induced ileal mucosal lesions by activation of inflammatory and pro-oxidant mechanisms. These detrimental actions were prevented by the combination of lactoferrin with Bifidobacterium likely through the modulation of TLR-2/-4/NF-κB proinflammatory pathways.
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Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a condition characterized by an increased resistance of pulmonary vasculature, culminating in an increase in pulmonary pressure. This process involves disturbances in lung redox homeostasis, causing progressive right heart failure. In this context, the use of natural antioxidants, such as those found in blueberries, may represent a therapeutic approach. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of blueberry extract (BB) on functional parameters and oxidative stress levels in rat lungs with induced PAH. ⋯ Intervention with BB mitigated functional PAH outcomes through improvement of the pulmonary redox state. Our results provide a basis for future research on natural antioxidant interventions as a novel treatment strategy in PAH.
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Sepsis is a severe organic dysfunction caused by an infection that affects the normal regulation of several organ systems, including the central nervous system. Inflammation and oxidative stress play crucial roles in the development of brain dysfunction in sepsis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a fish oil (FO)-55-enriched lipid emulsion as an important anti-inflammatory compound on brain dysfunction in septic rats. ⋯ FO diminishes the negative effect of polymicrobial sepsis in the rat brain by reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.
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Obesity is characterized by adipose tissue expansion and chronic low-grade inflammation. Among the inflammatory mediators related to obesity development are the adipokines. These cytokines are released from fatty tissues and act in an autocrine, paracrine, or endocrine manner. ⋯ The association among obesity, OP, and OA is quite complex, and many factors need to be explored that are mainly related to the role of adipokines derived locally rather than from visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue. Also, nutritional intervention may affect fatty tissue mass and secretion of inflammatory mediators that may, at least in part, influence other tissues in the organism such as bone and articular cartilage. The aim of this review was to present the latest knowledge about the interrelationship between obesity and OA or OP and to discuss whether a dietary intervention for obesity will hold promise for patients with OA or OP.