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1.
The effects of Chlorella vulgaris on cardiovascular risk factors: A comprehensive review on putative molecular mechanisms.
Barghchi, H, Dehnavi, Z, Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Alwaily, ER, Almulla, AF, Kareem, AK, Barati, M, Ranjbar, G, Mohammadzadeh, A, Rahimi, P, et al
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie. 2023;:114624
Abstract
High incidence rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) make this condition as an important public health concern. The use of natural products in treating this chronic condition has increased in recent years one of which is the single-celled green alga Chlorella. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) has been studied for its potential benefits to human health due to its biological and pharmacological features. CV contains a variety of macro and micronutrients, including proteins, omega-3, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Some studies have indicated that taking CV as a dietary supplement can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In some studies, cardiovascular risk factors that are based on hematological indices did not show these benefits, and no molecular mechanisms have been identified. This comprehensive review summarized the research on the cardio-protective benefits of chlorella supplementation and the underlying molecular processes.
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The effect of Royal jelly on liver enzymes and glycemic indices: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Bahari, H, Taheri, S, Rashidmayvan, M, Jamshidi, S, Jazinaki, MS, Pahlavani, N
Complementary therapies in medicine. 2023;:102974
Abstract
BACKGROUND Royal jelly (RJ) may contribute to glycemic control and liver function through various mechanisms. The present study aimed to quantify the effect of RJ supplementation on these outcomes. METHODS A literature search of Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed/Medline, was conducted for RCTs investigating the efficacy of RJ on plasma liver enzymes and glycemic indices. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for net changes using a random-effects model. RESULTS Ten RCTs were selected for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Combined estimate of effect sizes for the impact of RJ on neither the plasma liver enzymes nor the glycemic indices were statistically significant. Subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction of serum FPG in trials with intervention duration ≥ 8 weeks (WMD: -4.28 mg/dl, 95% CI -7.41 to -1.14 mg/dl, p = 0.007), and those conducted in non-healthy populations (WMD: -4.28 mg/dl, 95% CI -7.41 to -1.14, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION RJ does not significantly affect liver function and glycemic profile of adult population. In trials with longer intervention and those conducted in non-healthy populations a significant reduction of serum FBG was observed. This meta-analysis should be repeated in the future, with more primary articles included, in order to provide conclusive results.
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The effects of cinnamon supplementation on adipokines and appetite-regulating hormones: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials.
Gheflati, A, Pahlavani, N, Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Namkhah, Z, Ghazvinikor, M, Ranjbar, G, Shahraki Jazinaki, M, Norouzy, A
Avicenna journal of phytomedicine. 2023;(5):463-474
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cinnamon is extracted from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees. Recent studies have indicated that cinnamon is a safe and cost-effective treatment for improving body weight, lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. This systematic review aimed to summarize the effect of cinnamon supplementation on adipokines and appetite-regulating hormones. MATERIALS AND METHODS This comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to March 2022 without any limitation. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated through the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias. RESULTS This systematic review included six clinical trial studies (363 participants), among which, only one study was performed on children, and two investigations were conducted on obese participants. A decreasing effect was found in the level of leptin and visfatin after cinnamon supplementation. Two out of three studies examined adiponectin levels and revealed non-significant effects of cinnamon consumption on this parameter. Two studies evaluated ghrelin levels and found an increase after cinnamon supplementation. The result of cinnamon supplementation on other biomarkers such as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, glucagon-like peptide 1, and resistin was inconsistent. CONCLUSION The result of this systematic review indicated the increasing effect of cinnamon supplementation on ghrelin levels and decreasing effect on leptin and visfatin levels. However, more clinical data are required to clarify the beneficial effects of cinnamon on adipokines levels due to the controversial findings of the studies.
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Does propolis have any effect on rheumatoid arthritis? A review study.
Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Pahlavani, N, Ranjbar, G, Gholizadeh Navashenaq, J, Salehi-Sahlabadi, A, Mahmudiono, T, Nader Shalaby, M, Jokar, M, Nematy, M, Barghchi, H, et al
Food science & nutrition. 2022;(4):1003-1020
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in its pathophysiology. Complementary therapies along with medications may be effective in the control of RA. Propolis is a natural substance extracted from beehives, which have confirmed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The present study aimed to review the possible effects of propolis on inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid profile in patients with RA. English articles in online databases such as PubMed‑Medline, AMED, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched. Pieces of evidence show that supplementation with propolis may have therapeutic effects on RA patients. Due to increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joints of RA patients, propolis could inhibit the inflammatory cascades by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B pathway and reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-17 by increasing some antioxidants. Therefore, inflammation and pain reduce, helping improve and control RA in patients. Further investigations are required with larger sample sizes and different doses of propolis to demonstrate the definite effects of propolis on various aspects of RA.
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The effect of Vitamin C and Zn supplementation on the immune system and clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients.
Firouzi, S, Pahlavani, N, Navashenaq, JG, Clayton, ZS, Beigmohammadi, MT, Malekahmadi, M
Clinical nutrition open science. 2022;:144-154
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2) is the most dangerous form of the coronavirus, which causes COVID-19. In patients with severe COVID-19, the immune system becomes markedly overactive. There is evidence that supplementation with select micronutrients may play a role in maintaining immune system function in this patient population. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, significant emphasis has been placed on the importance of supplementing critical micronutrients such as Vitamin C and Zinc (Zn) due to their immunomodulatory effects. Viral infections, like COVID-19, increase physiological demand for these micronutrients. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to provide comprehensive information regarding the potential effectiveness of Vitamin C and Zn supplementation during viral infection and specifically COVID-19. This review demonstrated a relation between Vitamin C and Zn deficiency and a reduction in the innate immune response, which can ultimately make patients with COVID-19 more vulnerable to viral infection. As such, adequate intake of Vitamin C and Zn, as an adjunctive therapeutic approach with any necessary pharmacological treatment(s), may be necessary to mitigate the adverse physiological effects of COVID-19. To truly clarify the role of Vitamin C and Zn supplementation in the management of COVID-19, we must wait for the results of ongoing randomized controlled trials. The toxicity of Vitamin C and Zn should also be considered to prevent over-supplementation. Over-supplementation of Vitamin C can lead to oxalate toxicity, while increased Zn intake can reduce immune system function. In summary, Vitamin C and Zn supplementation may be useful in mitigating COVID-19 symptomology.
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The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects.
Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Gheflati, A, Barghchi, H, Rahbarinejad, P, Hachem, K, Shalaby, MN, Abdelbasset, WK, Ranjbar, G, Olegovich Bokov, D, Rahimi, P, et al
Phytotherapy research : PTR. 2022;(6):2352-2374
Abstract
The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.
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7.
Biological and pharmacological effects and nutritional impact of phytosterols: A comprehensive review.
Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Barghchi, H, Pahlavani, N, Barati, M, Amiri, Y, Fadel, A, Khosravi, M, Talebi, S, Arzhang, P, Ziaei, R, et al
Phytotherapy research : PTR. 2022;(1):299-322
Abstract
Phytosterols (PSs), classified into plant sterols and stanols, are bioactive compounds found in foods of plant origin. PSs have been proposed to exert a wide number of pharmacological properties, including the potential to reduce total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Other health-promoting effects of PSs include anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Also, anticancer effects have been strongly suggested, as phytosterol-rich diets may reduce the risk of cancer by 20%. The aim of this review is to provide a general overview of the available evidence regarding the beneficial physiological and pharmacological activities of PSs, with special emphasis on their therapeutic potential for human health and safety. Also, we will explore the factors that influence the physiologic response to PSs.
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A comprehensive review of chemokine CXC17 (VCC1) in cancer, infection, and inflammation.
Gowhari Shabgah, A, Jadidi-Niaragh, F, Ebrahimzadeh, F, Mohammadi, H, Askari, E, Pahlavani, N, Malekahmadi, M, Ebrahimi Nik, M, Gholizadeh Navashenaq, J
Cell biology international. 2022;(10):1557-1570
Abstract
A crucial component of the immune system are chemokiness. Chemokine's dysregulation has been linked to a number of pathological diseases. Recently, CXCL17, a chemokine belonging to the CXC subfamily, was identified. With regard to a number of physiological conditions and disorders, CXCL17 either has homeostatic or pathogenic effects. Some research suggests that CXCL17 is an orphan ligand, despite the fact that G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) 35 has been suggested as a possible receptor for CXCL17. Since CXCL17 is primarily secreted by mucosal epithelia, such as those in the digestive and respiratory tracts, under physiological circumstances, this chemokine is referred to as a mucosal chemokine. Macrophages and monocytes are the cells that express GPR35 and hence react to CXCL17. In homeostatic conditions, this chemokine has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and chemotactic properties. CXCL17 promotes angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation in pathologic circumstances like malignancies. However, other studies suggest that CXCL17 may have anti-tumor properties. Additionally, studies have shown that CXCL17 may have a role in conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and systemic sclerosis. Additionally, deregulation of CXCL17 in some diseases may serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis. Clarifying the underlying mechanism of CXCL17's activity in homeostatic and pathological situations may thus increase our understanding of its role and hold promise for the development of novel treatment strategies.
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Nigella sativa in controlling Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular, and rheumatoid arthritis diseases: Molecular aspects.
Hadi, V, Pahlavani, N, Malekahmadi, M, Nattagh-Eshtivani, E, Navashenaq, JG, Hadi, S, Ferns, GA, Ghayour-Mobarhan, M, Askari, G, Norouzy, A
Journal of research in medical sciences : the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. 2021;:20
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Abstract
Oxidative stress is an important factor in the etiology of several chronic diseases that include cardiovascular disease (CVD), Type 2 diabetes (T2D), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Oxidative stress can lead to inflammation, and this can contribute to these chronic diseases. Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may, therefore, be useful in the prevention and treatment of these conditions. One of the treatment options for chronic diseases is the use of traditional medicine and herbs, such as Nigella sativa. This is one of the herbs that have recently been assessed for its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. We have reviewed the reported effects of N. sativa on risk factors of chronic diseases (CVD, DM, and RA) with emphasis on molecular and cellular mechanisms in controlling inflammation and oxidative stress. Various mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to the beneficial properties of N. sativa, including a reduction of lipid peroxidation via its antioxidant properties; agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma in adipose tissue; activation of AMP-activated protein kinase, increased antioxidants, inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B pathway; increased in interleukin-10 expression, CD4+ T-cell percentage, T regulatory cell percentage (CD4+ CD25+ T-cell) in peripheral blood, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio, but to prove this claim, it is necessary to conduct experimental and well-designed clinical trial studies with a larger sample size on the effects of N. sativa on these chronic diseases.
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A comprehensive review of long non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis and development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Shabgah, AG, Norouzi, F, Hedayati-Moghadam, M, Soleimani, D, Pahlavani, N, Navashenaq, JG
Nutrition & metabolism. 2021;(1):22
Abstract
One of the most prevalent diseases worldwide without a fully-known mechanism is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as significant regulatory molecules. These RNAs have been claimed by bioinformatic research that is involved in biologic processes, including cell cycle, transcription factor regulation, fatty acids metabolism, and-so-forth. There is a body of evidence that lncRNAs have a pivotal role in triglyceride, cholesterol, and lipoprotein metabolism. Moreover, lncRNAs by up- or down-regulation of the downstream molecules in fatty acid metabolism may determine the fatty acid deposition in the liver. Therefore, lncRNAs have attracted considerable interest in NAFLD pathology and research. In this review, we provide all of the lncRNAs and their possible mechanisms which have been introduced up to now. It is hoped that this study would provide deep insight into the role of lncRNAs in NAFLD to recognize the better molecular targets for therapy.