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Juan Zalapa - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Comprehensive analysis of the internal structure and firmness in American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) fruit.
PLOS ONE, 2019Co-Authors: Luis Diaz-garcia, Amaya Atucha, Lorraine Rodriguez-bonilla, Matthew Phillips, Arnoldo Lopez-hernandez, Edward Grygleski, Juan ZalapaAbstract:BACKGROUND Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon L.) fruit quality traits encompass many properties. Although visual appearance and fruit nutritional constitution have usually been the most important attributes, cranberry textural properties such as firmness have recently gained importance in the industry. Fruit firmness has become a quality standard due to the recent demand increase for sweetened and dried cranberries (SDC), which are currently the most profitable cranberry product. Traditionally, this trait has been measured by the cranberry industry using compression tests; however, it is poorly understood how fruit firmness is influenced by other characteristics. RESULTS In this study, we developed a high-throughput computer-vision method to measure the internal structure of cranberry fruit, which may in turn influence cranberry fruit firmness. We measured the internal structure of 16 cranberry cultivars measured over a 40-day period, representing more than 3000 individual fruit evaluated for 10 different traits. The internal structure data paired with fruit firmness values at each evaluation period allowed us to explore the correlations between firmness and internal morphological characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the potential use of internal structure and firmness data as a decision-making tool for cranberry processing, especially to determine optimal harvest times and ensure high quality fruit. In particular, this study introduces novel methods to define key parameters of cranberry fruit that have not been characterized in cranberry yet. This project will aid in the future evaluation of cranberry cultivars for in SDC production.
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Comprehensive analysis of the internal structure and firmness in American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) fruit
2019Co-Authors: Luis Diaz-garcia, Amaya Atucha, Lorraine Rodriguez-bonilla, Matthew Phillips, Arnoldo Lopez-hernandez, Edward Grygleski, Juan ZalapaAbstract:Abstract Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) fruit quality traits encompass many properties. Among these, fruit firmness has become a quality standard due to the recent demand increase for sweetened and dried cranberries (SDC). Traditionally, this trait has been measured by the cranberry industry using compression tests; however, it is poorly understood how fruit firmness is influenced by other characteristics. In this study, we developed a high-throughput computer-vision method to measure the internal structure of cranberry fruit, which may in turn influence cranberry fruit firmness. We measured the internal structure of 16 cranberry cultivars measured over a 40-day period. Internal structure data paired with fruit firmness values at each evaluation period allowed us to explore the correlations between firmness and internal morphological characteristics.
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Pacbio sequencing reveals identical organelle genomes between American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) and a wild relative
2019Co-Authors: Luis Diaz-garcia, Tyler Smith, Lorriane Rodriguez-bonilla, Juan ZalapaAbstract:Breeding efforts in the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.), a North American perennial fruit crop of great importance, have been hampered by the limited genetic and phenotypic variability observed among cultivars and experimental materials. Most of the cultivars commercially used by cranberry growers today were derived from a few wild accessions bred in the 1950s. In different crops, wild germplasm has been used as an important genetic resource to incorporate novel traits and increase the phenotypic diversity of breeding materials. Vaccinium microcarpum (Turcz. ex Rupr.) Schmalh. and V. oxycoccos L., two closely related species, may be cross-compatible with the American cranberry and could be useful to improve fruit quality such as phytochemical content, and given their northern distribution, could also help develop cold hardy cultivars. Although these species have previously been analyzed in diversity studies, genomic characterization and comparative studies are still lacking. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the organelle genomes of the cultivated American cranberry and its wild relative, V. microcarpum. PacBio sequencing technology allowed us to assemble both mitochondrial and plastid genomes at very high coverage and in a single circular scaffold. A comparative analysis revealed that the mitochondrial genome sequences were identical between both species and that the plastids presented only two synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Moreover, Illumina resequencing of additional accessions of V. microcarpum and V. oxycoccos revealed high genetic variation in both species. Based on these results, we provided a hypothesis involving the extension and dynamics of the last glaciation period in North America, and how this could have shaped the distribution and dispersal of V. microcarpum. Finally, we provided important data regarding the polyploid origin of V. oxycoccos.
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Relationship between alternate bearing and apical bud development in cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Botany, 2019Co-Authors: Jenny L. Bolivar-medina, Juan Zalapa, Amaya Atucha, Sara E. PattersonAbstract:Similar to other woody crops, cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) exhibits alternate bearing or a tendency to produce heavier yields one year, followed by lighter yields the next year. Unfortuna...
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Genetic diversity and cultivar variants in the NCGR cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) collection.
Journal of Genetics, 2018Co-Authors: Brandon Schlautman, Kathy Hummer, Nahla V. Bassil, Tyler Smith, Lorraine Rodriguez-bonilla, Giovanny Covarrubias-pazaran, Juan ZalapaAbstract:The American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is an endemic domesticated species that has become an economically important commercial fruit crop. The USDA-ARS National Clonal Germplasm Repository (NCGR) houses the national Vaccinium collection, which includes representatives of historical cranberry cultivars and wild-selected germplasm. The objective of this study was to examine the genotypes of 271 cranberry plants from 77 accessions representing 66 named cultivars using 12 simple-sequence repeats to assess clonal purity and cultivar relatedness. Using principal components analysis and neighbour-joining based on estimated genetic distances between individuals, we identified 64 unique genotypes and observed that intracultivar variants (i.e. subclones) existed in the germplasm collection and in the commercial bogs where some accessions originated. Finally, through a comparison of the genotypes of this study with the previous studies, pedigree analysis and the study of the geographic distribution of cranberry diversity, we identified consensus genotypes for many accessions and cultivars. We highlight the important role that the NCGR collection plays for ex situ conservation of cranberry germplasm for future breeders and researchers. The NCGR continues to search for historically relevant cultivars absent from the collection in an effort to preserve these genotypes before they are lost and no longer commercially grown.
Catherine C Neto - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Chemopreventive Effects of Whole Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) on Colitis-Associated Colon Tumorigenesis.
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 2018Co-Authors: Mingyue Song, Catherine C Neto, Xiaokun Cai, Anuradha Tata, Yanhui Han, Qi Wang, Zhonghai Tang, Hang XiaoAbstract:SCOPE There are growing interests in using a whole-food-based approach to prevent chronic diseases due to potential synergistic interactions among different bioactive components within the whole foods. North American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), a polyphenol-rich fruit, has been shown to exert multiple beneficial health effects. METHODS AND RESULTS For the first time, the protective effects of whole cranberry powder (WCP) are determined against colitis-associated mouse colon tumorigenesis induced by azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The results show that dietary administration of WCP (1.5%, w/w in the diet) significantly suppresses colon tumorigenesis as indicated by the reduced tumor incidence, multiplicity, burden, and average tumor size in WCP-fed mice compared to the positive control mice. Both gene and protein expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α are markedly attenuated by WCP treatment in the colon of AOM/DSS-treated mice. Moreover, WCP profoundly modulates multiple signaling pathways/proteins related to inflammation, cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis in the colon, which is closely associated with the inhibitory effects of WCP on colon tumorigenesis. CONCLUSION Overall, the results demonstrate chemopreventive effects of WCP on colon tumorigenesis in mice, providing a scientific basis for using the whole cranberry as a functional food to promote colon health in humans.
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Flavonol-enriched fraction from Vaccinium macrocarpon fruit inhibits matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro
Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 2014Co-Authors: James Macphee, Catherine C Neto, Colin R. Stetson, Benjamin W. Elwood, Kunal Patel, Jason Mccallum, Robert A R HurtaAbstract:Background : Prostate cancer, amongst other cancer types has a genetic and environmental component, which can contribute to prostate cancer development and progression. Vaccinum macrocarpon (American cranberry) is a botanical that contains several phytochemicals which have been suggested to play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, cancer, and urinary tract infections as well as in the maintenance of oral health. Context and purpose of this study : This investigation evaluated the effects of a flavonolenriched fraction (FL) from the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) containing quercetin and myricetin glycosides on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) activities and their associated regulatory proteins in DU145 human prostate cancer cells in vitro. Results : A flavonol-enriched fraction (FL) was prepared from Vaccinium macrocarpon berries and the effect of this fraction on prostate cancer cell behaviour was assessed using biochemical and molecular approaches including cytotoxicity assays and Western blot analysis to determine protein expression. Cranberry FL decreased cellular viability of DU145 cells at a concentration of 25 ug/ml by 20% after 6 hours of treatment. Further investigations determined that associated with this cytotoxicity, cranberry FL decreases matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) ( specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9) activity and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) activity through effects on specific temporal MMP regulators and uPA regulators and by affecting either the phosphorylation status and/or expression of specific MAP kinase, PI-3 kinase, NF-kB and AP-1 pathway associated proteins. Conclusion : This study demonstrates, for the first time, the ability of Vaccinium macrocarpon flavonols to modulate cellular pathways associated with migration, invasion, and proliferation, suggesting that cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a viable candidate for further research as a natural product that may protect against certain cancers. Key Words: Vaccinium macrocarpon , matrix metalloproteinases, urokinase, anti-cancer activity Key Words: Vaccinium macrocarpon , matrix metalloproteinases, urokinase, anti-cancer activity
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Proanthocyanidins from the American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) Induce Cell Cycle Alterations in DU145 Human Prostate Cancer Cells in Vitro by Affecting the Expression of Cell Cycle-Associated Proteins
Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 2014Co-Authors: Joseph Kim, Catherine C Neto, Kunal Patel, Brendan Mckeown, Adriana Catalli, Marianna Kulka, Robert A R HurtaAbstract:Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. There are genetic and environmental factors that can potentially impact the development and progression of many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. As a consequence of environmental factors, such as diet having a potential effect on the development of prostate cancer, considerable interest in the possible health benefits associated with the inclusion and consumption of certain foods in the diet exists. Context and purpose of this study : This study describes the effects of a proanthocyanidin-enriched fraction (PACs) isolated from the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) on the behaviour of androgen-refractory (insensitive) DU145 human prostate cancer cells in vitro. Results: Following treatment of DU145 human prostate cancer cells with 25 µg/mL of PACs for six hours, PACs significantly decreased the cellular viability of DU145 cells. PACs treatment (25 µg/mL for 6 hours) of DU145 cells increased the proportion of cells in the G2-M phase of the cell cycle and decreased the proportion of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. These alterations were associated with changes in cell cycle regulatory proteins and other cell cycle associated proteins. PACs increased the expression of cyclin E, cyclin D1, CDK2 and CDK4, and decreased the expression of cyclin A and cyclin B1. The protein expression level of p27 increased, and the protein expression levels of p16 INK4a , p21, and pRBp107 decreased in response to PACs treatment. The protein expression level of pRBp130 was unchanged in response to PACs treatment. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that proanthocyanidins from the American cranberry can affect the behaviour of human prostate cancer cells in vitro and further support the potential health benefits associated with cranberries. Keywords: Prostate cancer, proanthocyanidin-enriched fraction (PACs), American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
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Variation in proanthocyanidin content and composition among commonly grown North American cranberry cultivars (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2014Co-Authors: Jessica L Carpenter, Anuradha Tata, Nicholi Vorsa, Frank L Caruso, Catherine C NetoAbstract:BACKGROUND Cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is rich in polyphenols, particularly oligomeric proanthocyanidins (PACs) possessing antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. PACs may play a role in resistance to fruit rot. Although many cranberry cultivars are grown for use in foods, beverages and nutraceuticals, data on PAC content among cultivars is limited. Eight cultivars were sampled from four growing regions during the 2010 season and analyzed for PAC content and composition. RESULTS MALDI-TOF MS showed that isolated PACs had similar oligomer profiles among cultivars. The major constituents were A-type (epi)catechin oligomers of two to eight degrees of polymerization. Total PAC content ranged between 18 and 92 g PAC kg−1 dried fruit, quantified as procyanidin A2 by the dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde method. Among the cultivars sampled, Howes had the highest total PACs (76–92 g kg−1), followed by Mullica Queen and Early Black (48–82 g kg−1). Ben Lear, a disease-susceptible variety, was significantly lower in PACs than the other cultivars (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Several traditional and newer cultivars of cranberry from various growing regions in North America are excellent sources of PACs, particularly the Howes, Mullica Queen and Early Black cultivars. PAC content may play a role in keeping quality. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
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Abstract B22: Modulation of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro by american cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) extract
Other Topics, 2013Co-Authors: Robert A R Hurta, Brendan Mckeown, Ravi Boddeti, Catherine C NetoAbstract:American cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) extract has been previously shown to affect cell cycle, apoptosis, and proliferative ability in prostate cancer cells in vitro . The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and their modulators the insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) may play roles in these events. IGFBPs act by regulating IGF action but also exhibit many IGF-independent activities. IGFBP expression in response to cranberry extract [50 & 100 ug/mL for 3 and 24 hours] was determined via Western blot analysis in DU145 and in PC3 androgen-refractory human prostate cancer cells. Cranberry extract treatment decreased the expression levels of both IGFBP-2 and IGFBP-5 and increased the expression levels of IGFBP-4. IGFBP-3 protein expression levels were apparently unaffected by cranberry extract suggesting that IGFBP-3 is likely not involved in this cellular response to cranberry extract. A reduction in IGFBP-2/-5 expression suggests a reduction in IGF through loss of IGF-stabilization by the IGFBPs suggesting an inhibition of the cell cycle due to this restriction in IGF. Increases in IGFBP-4 levels in response to cranberry would also inhibit IGFs and thereby inhibit cellular growth and proliferation. Increased IGFBP-2/-5 expression has been associated with progression from androgen-sensitivity to androgen-insensitivity in prostate cancer cells. Decreased IGFBP-2/-5 expression levels in response to cranberry extract could counteract this progression in vitro . [funded by The Cranberry Institute (Wisconsin Board) and Jeanne & J.-Louis Levesque Foundation] Citation Format: Robert Hurta, Brendan McKeown, Ravi Boddeti, Catherine Neto. Modulation of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro by american cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) extract. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Third AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Basic Cancer Research; Sep 18-22, 2013; National Harbor, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(19 Suppl):Abstract nr B22.
Albert Sotto - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Propolis potentiates the effect of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) in reducing the motility and the biofilm formation of uropathogenic Escherichia coli
PLOS ONE, 2018Co-Authors: Jérémy Ranfaing, Jean-philippe Lavigne, Catherine Dunyach-remy, Albert SottoAbstract:One strategy to prevent urinary tract infections is the use of natural products such as cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and propolis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of these products alone and combined on the motility and biofilm formation of a collection of representative uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Motility was evaluated by the swarming and swimming capacity of the isolates in presence/absence of cranberry ± propolis. Early and late biofilm formation was observed with the Biofilm Ring test (BioFilm Control) and the crystal violet method. Cranberry alone was seen to have a variable effect on motility and biofilm formation unrelated to bacterial characteristics, but a reduced motility and biofilm formation was observed for all the isolates in the presence of cranberry + propolis. These results suggest that cranberry alone doesn't work on all the E. coli strains and propolis potentiates the effect of cranberry on UPEC, representing a new strategy to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.
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Propolis potentiates the effect of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) in reducing the motility and the biofilm formation of uropathogenic Escherichia coli
PLoS ONE, 2018Co-Authors: Jérémy Ranfaing, Jean-philippe Lavigne, Catherine Dunyach-remy, Albert SottoAbstract:One strategy to prevent urinary tract infections is the use of natural products such as cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and propolis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of these products alone and combined on the motility and biofilm formation of a collection of representative uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Motility was evaluated by the swarming and swimming capacity of the isolates in presence/absence of cranberry \textpm propolis. Early and late biofilm formation was observed with the Biofilm Ring test (BioFilm Control) and the crystal violet method. Cranberry alone was seen to have a variable effect on motility and biofilm formation unrelated to bacterial characteristics, but a reduced motility and biofilm formation was observed for all the isolates in the presence of cranberry + propolis. These results suggest that cranberry alone doesn't work on all the E. coli strains and propolis potentiates the effect of cranberry on UPEC, representing a new strategy to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.
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[Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and urinary tract infections: study model and review of literature]
Pathologie Biologie, 2007Co-Authors: Jean-philippe Lavigne, Gisèle Bourg, H. Botto, Albert SottoAbstract:Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have long been the focus of interest for their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract infections. Among cranberry compounds, a group of proanthocyanidins (PACs) with A-type linkages were isolated which exhibit bacterial anti-adhesion activity against uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains. These PAC inhibit P-fimbriae synthesis and induce a bacterial deformation. This activity was demonstrated on both antibiotic susceptible and resistant bacteria. This review focused on the last discoveries in the knowledge of cranberry effects.
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Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) et infections urinaires : étude et revue de la littérature☆
Pathologie Biologie, 2007Co-Authors: Jean-philippe Lavigne, Gisèle Bourg, H. Botto, Albert SottoAbstract:Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have long been the focus of interest for their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract infections. Among cranberry compounds, a group of proanthocyanidins (PACs) with A-type linkages were isolated which exhibit bacterial anti-adhesion activity against uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains. These PAC inhibit P-fimbriae synthesis and induce a bacterial deformation. This activity was demonstrated on both antibiotic susceptible and resistant bacteria. This review focused on the last discoveries in the knowledge of cranberry effects.
David C Rowley - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Effect of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) oligosaccharides on the formation of advanced glycation end-products
Journal of Berry Research, 2016Co-Authors: Jiadong Sun, Jannie P J Marais, Christina Khoo, David C Rowley, Weixi Liu, Joel A. Dain, Navindra P SeeramAbstract:BACKGROUND: The formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are implicated in several chronic human illnesses including type-2 diabetes, renal failure, and neurodegenerative diseases. The cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) fruit has been previously reported to show anti-AGEs effects, attributed primarily to its phenolic constituents. However, there is lack of similar data on the non-phenolic constituents found in the cranberry fruit, in particular, its carbohydrate constituents. Herein, a chemically characterized oligosaccharide-enriched fraction purified from the cranberry fruit was evaluated for its potential anti-AGEs and free radical scavenging effects. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro anti-AGEs and free radical scavenging effects of a chemically characterized oligosaccharide-enriched fraction purified from the North American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) fruit. METHOD: The cranberry oligosaccharide-enriched fraction was purified from cranberry hull powder and characterized based on spectroscopic and spectrometric (NMR, MALDI-TOF-MS, and HPAEC-PAD) data. The oligosaccharide-enriched fraction was evaluated for its anti-AGEs and free radical scavenging effects by the bovine serum albumin-fructose, and DPPH assays, respectively. RESULTS: Fractionation of cranberry hull material yielded an oligosaccharide-enriched fraction named Cranf1b-CL. The 1H NMR and MALDI-TOF-MS revealed that Cranf1b-CL consists of oligosaccharides ranging primarily from 6-mers to 9-mers. The monosaccharide composition of Cranf1b-CL was arabinose (25%), galactose (5%), glucose (47%) and xylose (23%). In the bovine serum albumin-fructose assay, Cranf1b-CL inhibited AGEs formation in a concentration-dependent manner with comparable activity to the synthetic antiglycating agent, aminoguanidine, used as the positive control (57 vs. 75%; both at 500μg/mL). In the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, Cranf1b-CL showed superior activity to the synthetic commercial antioxidant, butylated hydroxytoluene, used as the positive control (IC50 = 680 vs. 2200μg/mL, respectively). CONCLUSION: The in vitro anti-AGEs and free radical scavenging effects of cranberry oligosaccharides support previous data suggesting that these constituents may also contribute to biological effects of the whole fruit beyond its phenolic constituents alone. Also, this is the first study to evaluate a chemically characterized oligosaccharide fraction purified from the North American cranberry fruit for anti-AGEs and free radical scavenging properties.
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cranberry Vaccinium macrocarpon oligosaccharides decrease biofilm formation by uropathogenic escherichia coli
Journal of Functional Foods, 2015Co-Authors: Jannie P J Marais, Christina Khoo, Kerry L Laplante, Rebecca Munk Vejborg, Michael Givskov, Tim Tolkernielsen, Navindra P Seeram, David C RowleyAbstract:The preventive effects of the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) against urinary tract infections are supported by extensive studies which have primarily focused on its phenolic constituents. Herein, a phenolic-free carbohydrate fraction (designated cranf1b-F2) was purified from cranberry fruit using ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography. MALDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that the cranf1b-F2 constituents are predominantly oligosaccharides possessing various degrees of polymerisation and further structural analysis (by GC-MS and NMR) revealed mainly xyloglucan and arabinan residues. In antimicrobial assays, cranf1b-F2 (at 1.25 mg/mL concentration) reduced biofilm production by the uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073 strain by over 50% but did not inhibit bacterial growth. Cranf1b-F2 (ranging from 0.625 - 10 mg/mL) also inhibited biofilm formation of the non-pathogenic E. coli MG1655 strain up to 60% in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that cranberry oligosaccharides, in addition to its phenolic constituents, may play a role in its preventive effects against urinary tract infections.
Robert A R Hurta - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Flavonol-enriched fraction from Vaccinium macrocarpon fruit inhibits matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro
Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 2014Co-Authors: James Macphee, Catherine C Neto, Colin R. Stetson, Benjamin W. Elwood, Kunal Patel, Jason Mccallum, Robert A R HurtaAbstract:Background : Prostate cancer, amongst other cancer types has a genetic and environmental component, which can contribute to prostate cancer development and progression. Vaccinum macrocarpon (American cranberry) is a botanical that contains several phytochemicals which have been suggested to play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, cancer, and urinary tract infections as well as in the maintenance of oral health. Context and purpose of this study : This investigation evaluated the effects of a flavonolenriched fraction (FL) from the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) containing quercetin and myricetin glycosides on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) activities and their associated regulatory proteins in DU145 human prostate cancer cells in vitro. Results : A flavonol-enriched fraction (FL) was prepared from Vaccinium macrocarpon berries and the effect of this fraction on prostate cancer cell behaviour was assessed using biochemical and molecular approaches including cytotoxicity assays and Western blot analysis to determine protein expression. Cranberry FL decreased cellular viability of DU145 cells at a concentration of 25 ug/ml by 20% after 6 hours of treatment. Further investigations determined that associated with this cytotoxicity, cranberry FL decreases matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) ( specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9) activity and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) activity through effects on specific temporal MMP regulators and uPA regulators and by affecting either the phosphorylation status and/or expression of specific MAP kinase, PI-3 kinase, NF-kB and AP-1 pathway associated proteins. Conclusion : This study demonstrates, for the first time, the ability of Vaccinium macrocarpon flavonols to modulate cellular pathways associated with migration, invasion, and proliferation, suggesting that cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a viable candidate for further research as a natural product that may protect against certain cancers. Key Words: Vaccinium macrocarpon , matrix metalloproteinases, urokinase, anti-cancer activity Key Words: Vaccinium macrocarpon , matrix metalloproteinases, urokinase, anti-cancer activity
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Proanthocyanidins from the American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) Induce Cell Cycle Alterations in DU145 Human Prostate Cancer Cells in Vitro by Affecting the Expression of Cell Cycle-Associated Proteins
Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 2014Co-Authors: Joseph Kim, Catherine C Neto, Kunal Patel, Brendan Mckeown, Adriana Catalli, Marianna Kulka, Robert A R HurtaAbstract:Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. There are genetic and environmental factors that can potentially impact the development and progression of many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. As a consequence of environmental factors, such as diet having a potential effect on the development of prostate cancer, considerable interest in the possible health benefits associated with the inclusion and consumption of certain foods in the diet exists. Context and purpose of this study : This study describes the effects of a proanthocyanidin-enriched fraction (PACs) isolated from the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) on the behaviour of androgen-refractory (insensitive) DU145 human prostate cancer cells in vitro. Results: Following treatment of DU145 human prostate cancer cells with 25 µg/mL of PACs for six hours, PACs significantly decreased the cellular viability of DU145 cells. PACs treatment (25 µg/mL for 6 hours) of DU145 cells increased the proportion of cells in the G2-M phase of the cell cycle and decreased the proportion of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. These alterations were associated with changes in cell cycle regulatory proteins and other cell cycle associated proteins. PACs increased the expression of cyclin E, cyclin D1, CDK2 and CDK4, and decreased the expression of cyclin A and cyclin B1. The protein expression level of p27 increased, and the protein expression levels of p16 INK4a , p21, and pRBp107 decreased in response to PACs treatment. The protein expression level of pRBp130 was unchanged in response to PACs treatment. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that proanthocyanidins from the American cranberry can affect the behaviour of human prostate cancer cells in vitro and further support the potential health benefits associated with cranberries. Keywords: Prostate cancer, proanthocyanidin-enriched fraction (PACs), American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
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Abstract B22: Modulation of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro by american cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) extract
Other Topics, 2013Co-Authors: Robert A R Hurta, Brendan Mckeown, Ravi Boddeti, Catherine C NetoAbstract:American cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) extract has been previously shown to affect cell cycle, apoptosis, and proliferative ability in prostate cancer cells in vitro . The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and their modulators the insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) may play roles in these events. IGFBPs act by regulating IGF action but also exhibit many IGF-independent activities. IGFBP expression in response to cranberry extract [50 & 100 ug/mL for 3 and 24 hours] was determined via Western blot analysis in DU145 and in PC3 androgen-refractory human prostate cancer cells. Cranberry extract treatment decreased the expression levels of both IGFBP-2 and IGFBP-5 and increased the expression levels of IGFBP-4. IGFBP-3 protein expression levels were apparently unaffected by cranberry extract suggesting that IGFBP-3 is likely not involved in this cellular response to cranberry extract. A reduction in IGFBP-2/-5 expression suggests a reduction in IGF through loss of IGF-stabilization by the IGFBPs suggesting an inhibition of the cell cycle due to this restriction in IGF. Increases in IGFBP-4 levels in response to cranberry would also inhibit IGFs and thereby inhibit cellular growth and proliferation. Increased IGFBP-2/-5 expression has been associated with progression from androgen-sensitivity to androgen-insensitivity in prostate cancer cells. Decreased IGFBP-2/-5 expression levels in response to cranberry extract could counteract this progression in vitro . [funded by The Cranberry Institute (Wisconsin Board) and Jeanne & J.-Louis Levesque Foundation] Citation Format: Robert Hurta, Brendan McKeown, Ravi Boddeti, Catherine Neto. Modulation of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins expression in human prostate cancer cells in vitro by american cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) extract. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Third AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Basic Cancer Research; Sep 18-22, 2013; National Harbor, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(19 Suppl):Abstract nr B22.
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Proanthocyanidin-rich extracts from cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) selectively inhibit the growth of human pathogenic fungi Candida spp. and Cryptococcus neoformans.
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011Co-Authors: Kunal Patel, Robert A R Hurta, Miwako Kondo, Frank J. Scarano, Catherine C NetoAbstract:Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) has been shown in clinical studies to reduce infections caused by Escherichia coli and other bacteria, and proanthocyanidins are believed to play a role. The ability of cranberry to inhibit the growth of opportunistic human fungal pathogens that cause oral, skin, respiratory, and systemic infections has not been well-studied. Fractions from whole cranberry fruit were screened for inhibition of five Candida species and Cryptococcus neoformans, a causative agent of fungal meningitis. Candida glabrata, Candida lusitaniae, Candida krusei, and Cryptococcus neoformans showed significant susceptibility to treatment with cranberry proanthocyanidin fractions in a broth microdilution assay, with minimum inhibitory concentrations as low as 1 μg/mL. MALDI-TOF MS analysis of subfractions detected epicatechin oligomers of up to 12 degrees of polymerization. Those containing larger oligomers caused the strongest inhibition. This study suggests that cranberry has potential as an antifung...
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North American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) stimulates apoptotic pathways in DU145 human prostate cancer cells in vitro.
Nutrition and cancer, 2011Co-Authors: Malcolm Adam Maclean, Catherine C Neto, Bradley E. Scott, Bob A. Deziel, Melissa C. Nunnelley, Anne M. Liberty, Katherine T. Gottschall-pass, Robert A R HurtaAbstract:Diets rich in fruits and vegetables have been shown to improve patient prognosis in a variety of cancers, a benefit partly derived from phytochemicals, many of which target cell death pathways in tumor cells. Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) are a phytochemical-rich fruit containing a variety of polyphenolic compounds. As flavonoids have been shown to induce apoptosis in human tumor cells, this study investigated the hypothesis that cranberry-mediated cytotoxicity in DU145 human prostate adenocarcinoma cells involves apoptosis. The results showed that induction of apoptosis in these cells occurred in response to treatment with whole cranberry extract and occurred through caspase-8 mediated cleavage of Bid protein to truncated Bid resulting in cytochrome-C release from the mitochondria. Subsequent activation of caspase-9 ultimately resulted in cell death as characterized by DNA fragmentation. Increased Par-4 protein expression was observed, and this is suggested to be at least partly responsible for caspase-8 activation. Proanthocyanidin-enriched and flavonol-enriched fractions of cranberry also increased caspase-8 and caspase-9 activity, suggesting that these compounds play a possible role in apoptosis induction. These findings indicate that cranberry phytochemicals can induce apoptosis in prostate cancer cells in vitro, and these findings further establish the potential value of cranberry phytochemicals as possible agents against prostate cancer.
