Polydatin, a natural precursor of resveratrol, induces cell cycle arrest and differentiation of human colorectal Caco-2 cell.

Background: Human colon adenocarcinoma cells are resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, such as anthracyclines, that induce death by increasing the reactive oxygen species. A number of studies have been focused on chemo-preventive use of resveratrol as antioxidant against cardiovascular diseases, aging and cancer. While resveratrol cytotoxic action was due to its pro-oxidant properties.

Polydatin, a natural precursor of resveratrol, induces β-defensin production and reduces inflammatory response.

It is well known that human keratinocytes produce the anti-microbial peptide β-defensin 2. Its production is enhanced by pathogenic microorganisms or other environmental stressors. In this study, we evaluated the effect of resveratrol, a polyphenol found in several dietary source as grape seed, and its natural precursor, polydatin on heat-stressed human keratinocytes.

Survivin promoter -31G/C polymorphism in oral cancer cell lines.

Survivin (SVV) is a protein that belongs to the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) family and is involved in the G2/M phase progression of the cell cycle as a spindle‑associated molecule. The biological features of this protein are well documented and its activity appears to be involved in mitochondria-dependent and -independent antiapoptotic pathways. Overexpression of SVV at the transcriptional and translational level has been associated with cancer, a multifactorial disorder in which the occurrence of a -31G to C polymorphism in the promoter region may significantly contribute to the development of this pathology.

Low concentrations of isothiocyanates protect mesenchymal stem cells from oxidative injuries, while high concentrations exacerbate DNA damage.

Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are molecules naturally present in many cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, black radish, daikon radish, and cauliflowers). Several studies suggest that cruciferous vegetable consumption may reduce cancer risk and slow the aging process. To investigate the effect of ITCs on cellular DNA damage, we evaluated the effects of two different ITCs [sulforaphane (SFN) and raphasatin (RPS)] on the biology of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which, in addition to their ability to differentiate into mesenchymal tissues, contribute to the homeostatic maintenance of many organs.

Gut--liver axis: the impact of gut microbiota on non alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Aim: To examine the impact of gut microbiota on non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) pathogenesis.

Data Synthesis: Emerging evidence suggests a strong interaction between gut microbiota and liver. Receiving approximately 70% of its blood supply from the intestine, the liver represents the first line of defence against gut-derived antigens.