Brazil nut consumption modulates Nrf2 expression in hemodialysis patients: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Renal Medicine
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Brazil nut supplementation is known to improve selenium status and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in hemodialysis (HD) patients.
• Nutritional compounds may reduce inflammation via activation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of Brazil nut supplementation on Nrf2 activation in hemodialysis patients.
• To investigate the potential of Brazil nuts as a bioactive compound for improving health outcomes in HD patients.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 13 HD patients receiving daily Brazil nut supplementation for 3 months, compared to 12 controls.
• Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the expression of Nrf2 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
• Plasma levels of malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein, and IL-6 were measured before and after supplementation.

Main Results:

• Brazil nut supplementation significantly increased Nrf2 expression and decreased NF-κB expression.
• Plasma levels of malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein, and IL-6 were significantly reduced post-supplementation.
• No significant alterations were observed in the control group.

Conclusions:

• This study indicates that Brazil nut supplementation is effective in activating Nrf2 in hemodialysis patients.
• The findings suggest a potential mechanism for the beneficial effects of Brazil nuts, highlighting their role as a bioactive compound.