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Annals of vascular surgery · 2024
Venoactive drugs (VADs) based on Vitis vinifera extract are widely used in Korea. However, studies on the clinical effects and head-to-head comparisons with other groups of VADs are limited. This trial aimed to evaluate whether Vitis vinifera seed extract was noninferior to the micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in relieving venous symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with chronic venous disease. In this double-blind prospective randomized trial, patients from 13 hospitals, who were diagnosed with venous incompetence by duplex ultrasound and classified as clinical class 1, 2, or 3 in the Clinical, Etiological, Anatomical, and Pathophysiological classifications were enrolled. The primary outcome was the change in the Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) score at 8 weeks from baseline. Secondary outcomes included changes in the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire, visual analog scale, and Venous Clinical Severity Score at 4 and 8 weeks from baseline. Moreover, the change in leg circumferences was measured at 8 weeks and compared to baseline. In total, 303 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either Vitis vinifera seed extract (n = 154) or MPFF (n = 149). The CIVIQ-20 scores at 8 weeks were significantly reduced compared to those at baseline in both groups. No significant intergroup difference in the change of CIVIQ-20 at 8 weeks from baseline was observed (-8.31 ± 14.63 vs. -10.35 ± 14.38, P = 0.29, 95% confidence interval -1.65 to 5.72). The lower limit of the 95% confidence interval was within the predefined noninferiority margin of 6.9. Furthermore, the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire, visual analog scale, and Venous Clinical Severity Score scores significantly decreased at 4 and 8 weeks after randomization compared with baseline in both groups. No significant differences were observed in the reduction of each score between groups. The calf circumference measured at 8 weeks was significantly reduced compared to that at baseline in patients receiving Vitis vinifera seed extract. Vitis vinifera seed extract was noninferior to MPFF in relieving venous symptoms and improving the quality of life in patients with chronic venous disease.
Reviews on recent clinical trials · 2025
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the three leading causes of maternal mortality. Herbal medicine is one of the well-known methods of treatment in the world. This study was conducted to determine and compare the effect of dates, grape seed and dill seed extracts on the PPH rate in women in the fourth stage of labor. Two hundred eligible multiparous women visiting the maternity ward in Hamadan for normal delivery participated in this double-blind parallel-group clinical trial. They were randomly divided into four 50-member groups of experiment (3 groups) and control (1 group). The data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. In the experimental groups, in addition to routine care and oxytocin administration, the mothers received a capsule containing 15 mg of dill seeds extract or 20 mg of grape seed extract or 5 g of dates extract immediately after the delivery, and then their hemorrhage rates were measured one and two hours after delivery. The control group received routine care, oxytocin, and placebo. Data were analyzed in SPSS 21. The hemorrhage changes in the placebo group were much less than the intervention groups at 1 and 2 hours after delivery, and the four groups had a significant difference in terms of hemorrhage in both hours (p <0.001). The overall difference between the dates extract group and the placebo and grape seed groups was also statistically significant (p <0.05). All three extracts of dates, grape seed and dill seeds, especially dates, can be effective in PPH reduction.
European journal of oral sciences · 2024
A promising approach for managing root caries is the use of cross-linking agents to stabilize collagen. However, despite testing various natural and synthetic agents in vitro, their efficacy remains uncertain. The aim of this review was to examine which cross-linking agent performs better in reducing root caries lesion depth and the release of hydroxyproline, which is a marker of collagen degradation. Studies evaluating the impact of cross-linking agents on dentin were included, while studies performed on enamel surface/cell cultures and studies evaluating collagenase inhibitors were excluded, among others. A comprehensive search covered eight databases, and study quality was assessed using the QUINN Tool for in vitro dental studies. Synthesis of the results was done using a Bayesian network meta-analysis to compare agents. Fifty studies involving 31 cross-linking agents were included for qualitative synthesis. The network meta-analysis for lesion depth involved 284 samples across 36 comparisons and ranked cross-linking agents in terms of their caries lesion depth-reducing effect (from best to worst): naringin > quercetin > riboflavin > proanthocyanidins > hesperidin > glutaraldehyde > cranberry > grape seed extract > untreated controls. Only naringin, quercetin, proanthocyanidins, and glutaraldehyde showed statistically significant efficacy over untreated controls. Cranberry extract excelled in reducing hydroxyproline release, followed by proanthocyanidins. In conclusion, proanthocyanidins positively affected both outcomes, suggesting they are prime candidates for translational research. Clinical studies are now essential to evaluate their real-world effectiveness against root caries. PROSPERO-CRD42023404911.
Nutrition, metabolism, and cardiovascular diseases : NMCD · 2025
Antioxidants, including vitamin E (VE) and grape seed extract (GSE), as anti-aging supplementation have been widely used to improve human health. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in health and affects the treatment effect of various interventions. However, the role of gut microbiota in VE remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the longitudinal impact of VE treatment on body health and the gut microbiota. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 90 healthy individuals. The participants were randomly assigned to three groups: a treatment group receiving VE, another antioxidant treatment group receiving GSE, and a control group receiving a placebo. We found that VE ameliorated blood cholesterol levels by reducing the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in healthy volunteers. After the intervention, there was an increase in the relative abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and bile acid metabolizers. Specifically, the abundances of Lachnospira sp. and Faecalibacterium spp. increased in the VE. Interestingly, the gut microbiota of poor responders harbored a greater proportion of disease-associated bacterial species. VE could promote health by lowering LDL-C, partly and indirectly by affecting gut bacteria with the ability to produce SCFAs or metabolize bile acids. The clinical trial was registered on August 28, 2021. Registration number was ChiCTR2100050567 (https://www.chictr.org.cn).
Clinical physiology and functional imaging · 2025
Evidence indicated that an increase in nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability via dietary supplementation decreased sympathetic output. Grape seed extract (GSE) supplement has been known to increase NO production and improve endothelial function in individuals with elevated and stage 1 hypertension (ES1H), but no studies have assessed the effects of this extract on autonomic balance. Accordingly, the aim of the study was to investigate the effect of 7 days of dietary GSE supplementation on cardiac autonomic and hemodynamic responses. Ten males were recruited in this study. Each subject received GSE or placebo supplementation with a 1-week wash-out period. In a double-blinded, cross-over design, hemodynamic responses (heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean atrial pressure (MAP)), heart rate variability (HRV), and cold pressor test (CPT) were compared before and after either GSE or placebo supplementation. Our results indicated that GSE decreased resting DBP (75 ± 2 vs. 71 ± 3) and MAP (91 ± 2 vs. 88 ± 3) compared to the placebo (DBP:71 ± 3 vs. 74 ± 3; MAP: 89 ± 2 vs. 90 ± 2). However, MAP responses to CPT had no difference between post-PL and post-GSE supplementation when expressed as absolute increases (PL, Δ10.3 ± 1 mmHg, GSE, Δ9.1 ± 1 mmHg). There were no differences on the HR, SV, CO, SBP, and HRV between placebo and GSE treatments. Our study suggests that GSE can be used as a dietary nutraceutical capable of reducing blood pressure and the risk of ES1H development. The reduction of blood pressure occurs via peripheral vasodilation, not associated with cardiac autonomic reactivity.
Medicine · 2025
This study aimed to assess the radiological and clinical outcomes of mineral trioxide aggregates (MTA) versus grape seed extract (GSE) when used as a dressing material in primary teeth undergoing pulpotomy. This was a prospective split-mouth randomized clinical study. A total of 32 primary teeth were included and split into 2 groups: MTA was used in group I, and GSE was used in group II. A clinical and radiographic follow-up was conducted for 6 months postoperatively. Periapical radiographs were taken for all treated teeth at 3- and 6-month follow-up visits. Radiographic criteria for clinical success included absence of internal resorption, pathologic external resorption, interradicular radiolucency, periapical radiolucency, and widening of the periodontal ligament space. In the MTA group, clinical and radiographic success was 100% at 1 and 3 months, in comparison to 93.75% 6 months postoperatively. In the GSE group, clinical success was 100% 1 month, and 93.75% 3 and 6 months postoperatively, while radiographic success was 100% at 3 months, 87.5% 6 months postoperatively. There were no significant statistical differences in the overall clinical or radiographic outcomes between the study groups (P > .05). Both MTA and GSE are associated with successful clinical and radiographic outcomes of pulpotomy; however, MTA seems to be associated with reduced inflammatory reactions, rendering it more effective than GSE.
International dental journal · 2026
Achieving durable adhesion of composite-resins to dentin remains a key challenge in restorative dentistry, highlighting the need for biomodification strategies. Therefore, this umbrella review aims to systematically overview dentin biomodifiers and evaluate their influence on the durability of composite-resin restorations. Literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to October 2024, focusing on three concepts: dentin, biomodification, and bond strength (PROSPERO: CRD42024588804). The corrected covered area (CCA) was calculated to evaluate overlap among the included systematic reviews (SRs). Among 486 identified papers, 9 SRs were selected including 7 meta-analyses. Twenty biomodification agents were identified and classified into natural, physical and chemical agents. These agents were assessed in 51 different setups with micro-tensile bond strength used in 68.62% of them. Timing of bond strength assessments varied from immediate to a 36-months period. As natural agents, Grape Seed Extract and chitosan improved bond strength after long-term aging, while induced riboflavin improved the short and medium-term periods only. Among all categories, the most studied biomodifier was Non-Thermal Atmospheric Plasma, a physical agent, which consistently enhanced resin-dentin bonding over time. However, chemical approaches did not show promising bond strength results at some exceptions. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and hypochlorous acid both immediately decreased bond strength. Overlap among reviews was slight (CCA = 1.52 %). Various biomodifiers show promise for enhancing adhesion and durability of composite-resin restorations, with their combinations potentially offering synergistic effects. Systematically identifying and characterizing dentin biomodifiers within their limitations lays the groundwork for evidence-based frameworks that guide dentists and shape future research. At present, physical scrubbing and air abrasion are the only readily available dentin biomodification techniques. Riboflavin and chitosan show promise as effective natural and affordable agents; however, their clinical use needs regulatory approval. In contrast, NaOCl should be avoided as it compromises composite restoration's durability.
Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.) · 2026
Dyslipidemia is a modifiable risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Chardonnay marc, the residual by-product of winemaking, is an underutilized agricultural product that remains rich in extractable and non-extractable nutrients, including polyphenolics (e.g., flavan-3-ols) and fiber, which may beneficially influence plasma lipids. This study evaluated whether ingestion of Chardonnay grape seed extract/marc blends could improve plasma lipids in adults with dyslipidemia. We hypothesized that a Chardonnay marc-rich blend (HM) would reduce total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), while a Chardonnay seed extract-rich blend (HE) would reduce total cholesterol, LDL-c, and triglycerides, without affecting HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c) or endothelial function. Twenty-four adults with mild dyslipidemia completed a 16-week randomized, double-blind, crossover trial involving three 3-week intervention periods (consuming 1500 mg of HM, HE, or microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)), each followed by a 3-week washout. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower following HE (118.8 ± 2.8 mmHg) compared to HM (125.6 ± 2.5 mmHg). HDL-c concentrations were higher after HM (56.6 ± 2.6 mg/dL) and MCC (55.7 ± 2.5 mg/dL) compared with HE (52.4 ± 2.5 mg/dL), and the number of large HDL particles was lower following HE (7.1 ± 0.7 µmol/L) compared with MCC (7.7 ± 0.7 µmol/L). Additionally, postprandial triglyceride area under the curve was lower after HM compared with HE. These findings suggest that the broader nutrient complexity of Chardonnay marc may offer pleiotropic benefits for modifiable ASCVD risk factors (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03203915).
Veterinary medicine and science · 2026
Grape seeds are recognized for their potential health benefits, particularly their antibacterial and antioxidant properties. This systematic review evaluates the antibacterial and antioxidant effects of grape seed varieties in Iran, highlighting the unique contributions of specific varieties. This study followed the 2020 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses' (PRISMA) standards. Two writers separately searched the databases Web of Science (WoS), PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and Embase. The publication searches were carried out using various combinations of the phrases listed below: 'Antibacterial activity' OR 'Antimicrobial Activity' OR 'Antibiofilm Activity' OR 'In vitro Antimicrobial Activity' OR 'Antifungal Activity' AND 'Grape Seed,' and/or 'Grape Seed Extract' AND 'Iran'. The keywords such as 'Antioxidant activity' OR 'Antiradical Activity' OR 'DPPH, FRAP' AND 'Grape Seed,' and/or 'Grape Seed Extract' AND 'Iran' were also used. The reference lists of chosen articles were also manually reviewed and relevant articles were included. Following PRISMA guidelines, multiple databases were searched, yielding 16 eligible studies. Based on the literature data on the antibacterial activity of grape seed extracts in Iran, it is evident that ethanol and methanol extracts have been the most extensively tested. These different extracts have demonstrated good inhibitory activity against the growth of the tested bacterial strains, with varying inhibition diameters depending on the strains and extracts used. Seed extract antioxidant activity ranged from 34.03% (Green) to 53.63% (Black). Specifically, the Black grape seed extract demonstrated the highest total antioxidant capacity with DPPH (53.63%-0.34%), IC50 and AEAC (7.41 and 16.92 mg/mL) and a total phenolic content of 3 0.01 mg tannic acid/g DM. Iranian grape seeds show promising potential as a source of antioxidants and natural antimicrobial agents. This review identifies the need for targeted research on the distinct characteristics of grape seed varieties and their implications for health and agriculture in Iran.
Food & function · 2025
Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart disease characterized by plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Saffron, which is rich in active compounds, has strong antioxidant properties that help reduce free radicals and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of crocetin supplementation on antioxidant and inflammatory markers, as well as serum leptin levels, in CAD patients. Methods: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted in Ahvaz, Iran, 50 clinically diagnosed CAD patients, including men and women aged 40-65, were randomly assigned to two parallel groups to receive either one tablet of 10 mg crocetin (n = 25) or one placebo (n = 25) daily for eight weeks. The primary outcome was high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, and the secondary outcomes included the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), leptin levels, anthropometric measurements, and body composition. Both groups followed similar dietary and exercise regimens. Results: We found no significant differences between the intervention and placebo groups regarding C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, as indicated by ANCOVA (P = 0.695). Similarly, ANCOVA results for leptin (P = 0.854), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P = 0.520), malondialdehyde (MDA) (P = 0.178), and the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) (P = 0.409) also did not show significant differences. However, a significant result was observed for catalase (CAT) (P = 0.008). The comparison of mean differences within the intervention and placebo groups showed clinical improvements for several measurements. Importantly, hs-CRP levels were -119.62 in the intervention group compared to -156.91 in the placebo group. Other mean differences included SOD (41.72 vs. -7.33), MDA (-0.99 vs. -0.16), AIP (-0.13 vs. 0.04), leptin (-1.86 vs. -0.09), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (-0.25 vs. 0.13), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (-0.24 vs. -0.01). Conclusions: Crocetin supplementation significantly improved inflammation, oxidative stress status, and leptin levels in CAD patients. Although further studies are needed to confirm these results in a larger population, crocetin administration may be recommended to prevent CAD.
International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism · 2025
This study aims to investigate the potential effects of carotenoid supplementation on mitigating exercise-induced oxidative stress and to provide guidance for future research. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched multiple databases from inception to August 2024 for randomized clinical trials investigating the effects of carotenoid supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, antioxidant levels, and metabolic parameters in the context of exercise-induced oxidative stress. The search terms included "carotenoids," "supplementation," "exercise," "oxidative stress," "inflammation," "antioxidants," "metabolic parameters," and their synonyms. Two reviewers independently extracted study data, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Quality was assessed by the Cochrane risk-of-bias method. Random and fixed effects models were used for the analysis of standard mean differences (SMD) or weighted mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 12 studies were included in the final analysis. Carotenoid supplementation led to significant effects in assessing oxidative stress induced by exercise (overall oxidative stress: SMD = -0.55, 95% CI [-1.04, -0.06]; malondialdehyde: MD = -0.05, 95% CI [-0.09,-0.02]; total antioxidant capacity: MD = 0.03, 95% CI [0.02, 0.03]; 8-isoprostane: MD = -35.70, 95% CI [-59.32, -12.09]; lipid peroxide: SMD = -1.07, 95% CI [-1.94, -0.20]; and nitric oxide: MD = -8.07, 95% CI [-12.54,-3.59]), inflammatory markers (inflammatory levels: SMD = 1.63, 95% CI [0.81, 2.46]; interleukin levels: SMD = 1.54, 95% CI [0.69, 2.40]; and C-reactive protein: MD = 4.56, 95% CI [0.97, 8.14]), antioxidant levels (SMD = 0.84, 95% CI [0.14, 1.53]), and metabolic parameters (energy expenditure: SMD = -0.52, 95% CI [-0.78, -0.26]; p < .05). Carotenoid supplementation appears to attenuate exercise-induced oxidative stress and the inflammatory response and improve antioxidant levels and metabolic capabilities. However, these results may be influenced by participant variability or methodological differences. Further research with larger sample sizes, longer supplementation periods, higher doses, and carotenoid bioavailability is needed to confirm these findings.
Nutrients · 2025
Background/Objectives: The potential influence of lycopene on mental health was indicated in some studies, but it was not summarized within any systematic review so far. The aim of the presented study was to analyze the influence of lycopene on mental health within a systematic review of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Methods: The study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and it was based on PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases, while the RCTs published until February 2025 were included. The systematic review was registered within the database of the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD420250650525). The studies were considered where the adult population was studied; intervention was based on oral lycopene intake in any form (lycopene supplement, lycopene-enriched functional food, or regular food product being an important source of lycopene); lycopene intake of a specified dose was applied; any mental health result was studied using a valid psychological measure. After duplicate removal, 642 studies were screened, and finally, six RCTs were included and assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, while various mental health outcomes were allowed (excluding subjects with intellectual disabilities, eating disorders, and neurological disorders). Each stage of screening, inclusion, reporting, and assessment was conducted independently by two researchers. Results: The included studies were conducted in populations of healthy individuals (one study), but mainly in individuals with various diseases: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) (two studies), Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) (one study), xerostomia (one study), and infertility (one study). Within the included studies, various lycopene sources were applied, including lycopene supplements, functional foods, and regular food products, as well as various lycopene doses from 1.35 mg to 27.8 mg per day. The included studies assessed quality of life (five studies), depression and anxiety (two studies), stress (two studies), and mood states (one study). In spite of the fact that all six included studies were RCTs, the comparison between the intervention group and placebo group was made in only four studies, and none of them stated the difference between the compared groups. A low risk of bias was concluded for three studies (all of them not confirming the influence of lycopene on mental health), and a high risk of bias was found in three studies (one of them not confirming, and two not conclusive). Conclusions: The evidence gathered within the systematic review of RCTs did not confirm any influence of lycopene on mental health. Further RCTs are needed to verify the influence of lycopene provided within supplements, functional foods, and regular food products on various mental health problems in diverse populations.
Nutrition and health · 2025
BackgroundGastritis, caused by Helicobacter pylori, is a major health concern affecting nearly half of the global population and is linked to severe gastrointestinal diseases, including gastric cancer. Despite available treatments, increasing antibiotic resistance raises the risk of treatment failure, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. Probiotics and antioxidants, such as lycopene, have shown promise in managing H. pylori-related gastric diseases.AimThis study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to evaluate the potential of lycopene, enhanced through lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation of plant-based sources, in treating H. pylori-induced gastritis.MethodologyUsing the PRISMA method, articles from Google Scholar, Science Direct, and PubMed (2018-2025) were reviewed. Out of 279 papers analyzed, 30 met the inclusion criteria, focusing on lycopene production via LAB fermentation and its efficacy against H. pylori.ResultsFindings indicate that LAB fermentation enhances lycopene's bioavailability and stability, while certain LAB strains exhibit inhibitory effects on H. pylori growth. Lycopene demonstrates anti-carcinogenic properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in gastric cells without harming normal epithelial cells. However, its effectiveness varies depending on fermentation conditions and bacterial strains.ConclusionThis study underscores the potential of combining probiotics and lycopene as an adjunct therapy for H. pylori infections, particularly amid antibiotic resistance. Future research should optimize fermentation processes, identify the most effective LAB strains, and conduct clinical trials to validate fermented lycopene's therapeutic potential. This approach could offer a sustainable and effective alternative to conventional antibiotic treatments.
International journal of molecular sciences · 2025
Lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes and watermelon, has been investigated for its potential to improve male fertility through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. However, evidence of its effectiveness remains inconsistent. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published until February 2025 in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Medline databases. Clinical studies evaluating lycopene supplementation in relation to male fertility outcomes were included in this review. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated for the key outcomes. Four clinical studies involving 151 participants were included. Lycopene supplementation significantly improved sperm concentration (SMD 0.33, 95% CI [0.02-0.65], p = 0.037) and nonprogressive motility (SMD 0.45, 95% CI [0.04-0.87], p = 0.032). No statistically significant effects were observed on total motility, progressive motility, normal or abnormal morphology, semen volume, or DNA damage. Sensitivity analyses showed that the findings were generally robust, although publication bias and methodological heterogeneity were noted. Lycopene supplementation may offer modest benefits in improving sperm concentration and nonprogressive motility in men. However, evidence for other fertility-related outcomes is inconclusive. Larger, high-quality randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings and clarify the role of lycopene in male reproductive health.
Nutrients · 2025
Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by intrinsic factorssuch as genetic predispositions and hormonal changes as well as extrinsic factors including ultraviolet radiation, environmental pollution, and lifestyle habits. This process culminates in a progressive decline in the structural and functional integrity of the skin. This review delves into the protective roles of carotenoids, highlighting their significant anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties. We included studies that investigated the effects of dietary or topical carotenoids on skin aging markers in human and animal models. Eligible studies were identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library from January 2000 to March 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB tool for randomized trials and animal studies. A total of 176 studies were included, and data were synthesized narratively due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes. The findings indicate that carotenoids mitigate oxidative stress-induced cellular damage by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS), attenuating chronic inflammation, and enhancing dermal matrix integrity via collagen biosynthesis and modulation of matrix metalloproteinases. Additionally, they support skin hydration and elasticity by indirectly regulating aquaporins and promoting hyaluronic acid synthesis. This review further explores emerging strategies that incorporate carotenoid supplementation in lifestyle medicine and preventive dermatology. By elucidating the cellular pathways through which carotenoids exert their effects and modulate mitochondrial function, this review highlights their translational potential in anti-aging skincare. Ongoing research is essential to comprehend the complex connections between carotenoids, skin physiology, and overall health. This understanding will ultimately facilitate the creation of personalized nutritional and dermocosmetic strategies.
Food & function · 2025
Maintaining normal vascular endothelial function is important for preventing arteriosclerosis. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) is widely used to evaluate vascular endothelial function. Lycopene, a carotenoid abundant in tomatoes, has been reported to improve FMD, but its effect after 4 weeks of intake remains unclear. We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group trial to assess the effects of lycopene. Seventy-five healthy adults with borderline FMD (4-7%) were randomly assigned to placebo juice (0.7 mg lycopene), tomato juice (TJ, 15.0 mg), or high-lycopene tomato juice (HLTJ, 26.7 mg) groups. FMD, serum lycopene, oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α), and nitrogen oxide concentrations were measured every 4 weeks over a 12-week intervention. The participants analyzed included 23 (placebo), 25 (TJ), and 24 (HLTJ). Data were analyzed using a linear mixed effects model adjusting for baseline covariates and a post hoc Dunnett's test with Bonferroni correction for intergroup comparisons. At week 12, FMD was significantly higher in the TJ (6.1 ± 0.5%, p < 0.001) and HLTJ groups (7.0 ± 0.7%, p < 0.001) than in the placebo group (5.4 ± 0.6%). In the HLTJ group, FMD at weeks 4 (6.2 ± 1.0%, p < 0.001) and 8 (6.7 ± 0.7%, p < 0.001) was significantly higher than in the placebo group (5.4 ± 0.9% and 5.3 ± 0.6%, respectively). Serum lycopene concentrations were significantly increased in TJ and HLTJ groups than in the placebo group. No significant differences were observed in oxidative stress or nitrogen oxide levels. These findings suggest that lycopene intake improves vascular endothelial function, though the mechanism remains unclear. Trial registration: UMIN000051176.
Journal of biochemical and molecular toxicology · 2025
Lycopene (LYP), the red pigment found in tomatoes, is a non-provitamin A carotenoid recognized for its biological significance and anticancer potential. Beyond its direct anticancer effects, LYP has been shown to enhance the efficacy of various anticancer agents when used in combination. Herein, we have conducted a literature survey using PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, to systematically review LYP's efficacy in combination therapy. A search in PubMed using the keywords "lycopene and combination and cancer" yielded 206 studies, while "lycopene and cancer" retrieved 27 clinical trials from ClinicalTrial.gov. After applying the defined eligibility criteria, 45 relevant studies were included: 37 unique to PubMed, six unique to ClinicalTrials.gov, and two common to both databases. These studies collectively demonstrate that LYP, when used in combination with other therapeutic agents, can modulate several key oncogenic signaling pathways, including JAK2, MAPK, Akt/mTOR, IGF-1R, Akt/EZH2/AR, and PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1. Additionally, LYP influences the activity of NF-κB, IFN-γ, and Nrf2, and also modulates cellular processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. These alterations have been observed when LYP is combined with various anticancer therapeutics, including radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, standard chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, taxanes, and sorafenib, as well as several phytochemicals and other potential anticancer agents, across various cancers. Nevertheless, robust clinical validation is required to confirm the therapeutic potential of these combinations and to establish LYP as an effective adjuvant in cancer treatment.
Clinical and experimental dental research · 2025
The bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and type 2 diabetes (T2D) underscores the need for adjunctive therapies to enhance nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of antioxidants in improving periodontal and glycemic outcomes in T2D patients with periodontitis. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2015 to 2025. Antioxidants tested were melatonin, propolis, lycopene, ginger, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs), and grape seed extract. Outcomes (clinical attachment level [CAL], probing depth [PD], gingival index [GI], HbA1c) were analyzed using random-effects models (mean differences, 95% CIs). Risk of bias was assessed via the Cochrane criteria. Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs, n = 315) were identified. Adjunctive antioxidants significantly improved CAL (melatonin: SMD -2.28, 95% CI -3.01 to -1.56; propolis: SMD -3.83, -4.79 to -2.87) and PD (melatonin: SMD -2.40, -3.14 to -1.66; propolis: SMD -1.78, -2.44 to -1.11). Melatonin and propolis also reduced HbA1c (melatonin: SMD -2.28; propolis: SMD -3.83). Lycopene and ginger showed modest effects, while vitamin C and O3FAs had minimal impact. Evidence certainty was moderate for CAL/HbA1c and low for PD/GI. Antioxidants, particularly melatonin and propolis, enhance periodontal and glycemic outcomes in T2D-periodontitis patients. Despite promising results, limitations include small sample sizes and heterogeneity. Larger RCTs are needed to optimize protocols.
BMC medicine · 2025
Intake of lycopene has been proposed as a protective dietary factor against prostate cancer development. Cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer share risk factors, which may modulate the effect of lycopene in high-risk individuals. This study aimed to examine the association between lycopene intake and prostate cancer risk in a Mediterranean population at high cardiovascular risk. A prospective cohort analysis was conducted among 2970 men aged 55-80 years at high cardiovascular risk from the PREDIMED trial, a multicenter study in Spain. Lycopene intake was assessed using repeated food frequency questionnaires. Prostate cancer cases were identified through medical records and death certificates. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) across lycopene intake quartiles. Over a mean follow-up of 5.8 years, 104 prostate cancer cases were identified. Participants in the highest quartile of lycopene intake had a significantly lower risk of prostate cancer than those in the lowest quartile (HR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.23-0.95; p-trend = 0.035). A nonlinear dose-response relationship was observed, with a significant inverse association emerging at intakes above 4.9 mg/day (HR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.13-0.98). Higher lycopene intake suggested a protective association with a lower incidence of prostate cancer in men at high cardiovascular risk. These findings support the role of lycopene-rich diets in prostate cancer prevention, which may be particularly relevant for high cardiovascular risk populations. ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN35739639 (PREDIMED trial).
Food & function · 2026
This umbrella review assessed evidence from systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) on the effects of tomato-derived lycopene on cardiovascular risk factors. A comprehensive search was conducted on April 8, 2025, across PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceOn. Eligible studies were SR/MAs of intervention studies involving adult participants consuming tomatoes and/or naturally occurring lycopene and reported cardiovascular outcomes. SR/MA quality and evidence certainty were assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Data synthesis results were expressed as standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. A total of nine SRs were included, seven of which involved MAs. Five moderate-to-high-quality MAs were included in the quantitative synthesis after quality assessment. These demonstrated significant improvements in blood pressure, but lipid profile results were inconsistent. GRADE assessments confirmed high certainty for blood pressure but very low certainty for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol due to heterogeneity. Tomato-derived lycopene consumption lowers blood pressure and modestly improves cardiovascular risk. Daily intake of 5-30 mg lycopene, equivalent to one or two raw tomatoes, appears beneficial.