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Published on: August 24, 2018
Inhibition of advanced glycation endproduct formation by foodstuffs
Chi-Hao Wu1, Shang-Ming Huang, Jer-An Lin
1Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung-Hsing University, 250 Kuokuang Road, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.
Abstract:
The Maillard reaction, which is generally termed nonenzymatic browning or glycation, has been implicated in accelerated aging and diabetic complications in vivo. Although the molecular basis of glycation-induced pathogenesis is not well understood, the following have been noted: (1) protein glycation leads to the formation and accumulation of toxic advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs); (2) AGEs can permanently alter the structure and function of body proteins; and (3) the interaction between AGE-modified proteins and AGE-specific receptors (RAGEs) on the cell surface induces the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROSs) and inflammatory mediators, which leads to cellular disorders in biological systems. To date, studies that have examined the contribution of protein glycation to disease-states have primarily focused on the deleterious effects and related mechanisms of these glycotoxins. However, it remains unknown whether phytochemicals exert protective effects against glycotoxin-induced damage. Thus, the development and investigation of AGE inhibitors, especially the natural anti-AGE agents without adverse effects, may provide a therapeutic approach for delaying and preventing premature aging and diabetic complications. In this review, we provide an outline of anti-glycation properties of foodstuffs and/or their active components, and discuss their mechanisms of action.
Insights
The Maillard reaction, or glycation, forms toxic advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) linked to aging and diabetes. This review explores natural food compounds that may inhibit AGEs, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Gerontology
- Diabetology
Background:
- The Maillard reaction (glycation) generates advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs), implicated in aging and diabetic complications.
- AGEs alter protein structure/function and trigger cellular damage via receptor interactions (RAGEs), leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation.
- Current research focuses on AGEs' detrimental effects, with limited understanding of protective agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anti-glycation properties of foodstuffs and their active components.
- To discuss the mechanisms by which natural compounds inhibit AGE formation and related damage.
- To explore therapeutic potential of natural AGE inhibitors for preventing aging and diabetic complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on glycation, AGEs, and phytochemicals.
- Analysis of mechanisms underlying AGE inhibition by food components.
- Synthesis of information on natural anti-AGE agents and their therapeutic implications.
Main Results:
- Protein glycation leads to toxic AGEs, altering protein function and inducing cellular damage.
- AGEs interact with RAGEs, promoting oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Phytochemicals show potential protective effects against glycotoxin-induced damage.
Conclusions:
- Natural compounds in foodstuffs may act as AGE inhibitors.
- Investigating these natural agents offers a promising therapeutic strategy for age-related diseases and diabetes.
- Further research into natural anti-AGE agents could lead to treatments with fewer adverse effects.
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