Angiotensin receptor blocker losartan inhibits tumor growth of colorectal cancer

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is up-regulated in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and is reported to be associated with poor prognosis and chemo-resistance. Here we explored the therapeutic potential of targeting RAS in CRC using Losartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker. An integrative-systems biology approach was used to explore a proteome-level dataset of a gene signature that is modulated by Losartan. The anti-proliferative activity of Losartan was evaluated using 2- and 3-dimensional cell culture models. A xenograft model of colon cancer was used to investigate tumor growth with Losartan alone and in combination with 5-FU followed by histological staining (Hematoxylin & Eosin and Masson trichrome staining), biochemical analyses, gene expression analyses by RT-PCR, western blot/IHC, or MMP Gelatin Zymography studies. Effects on cell cycle and cell death were assessed by flow cytometry. Losartan inhibited cell growth and suppressed cell cycle progression, causing an increase in CRC cells in the G1 phase. Losartan significantly reduced tumor growth and enhanced tumor cell necrosis. An impact on the inflammatory response, including up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in CRC cells are potential mechanisms that could partially explain Losartan’s anti-proliferative effects. Moreover, metastasis and angiogenesis were reduced in Losartan-treated mice as observed by inhibited matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 activities and decreased tumor vasculature. These data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of combining chemotherapeutic regimens with Losartan to synergistically enhance its activity and target the renin-angiotensin system as a new approach in colorectal cancer treatment

The Effects of Vitamin D Fortified Products on Bone Biomarkers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Vitamin D plays an essential role in the regulation of bone metabolism. The current meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of vitamin D fortification on special bone biomarkers. Methods: Five main databases (PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Science Direct, Scopus, Cochrane Library as well as Science Direct, and Scopus) were considered for this systematic review, until Jan 2020. All randomized controlled trials were included to evaluate the probable relationship between consumption of vitamin D fortification products and bone biomarkers profile in this review. Results: Among serum bone biomarkers (osteocalcin and telopeptides of type-1 collagen) investigated, only the level of telopeptides of type-1 collagen significantly decreased after fortification of vitamin D in the intervention group. A significant increase in vitamin D was seen in those older than 18 yr old, while the increase in younger children was not statistically significant between intervention and control groups. Conclusion: Vitamin D fortification was not associated with a significant improvement in bone mass density (BMD), while it resulted in decreased PTH levels. Vitamin D fortified foods have some benefits on bone health due to increase in the level of vitamin D and IGF-1; and decreasing PTH and CTx levels

Efficacy of low‐fat milk and yogurt fortified with encapsulated vitamin D 3

INTRODUCTION Sleep disorders are a common condition globally. Vitamin D receptors are present on cells in several regions of the brain. It is possible that vitamin D status may affect brain function, including sleep patterns. We aimed to evaluate the 1,500 IU of Nano-encapsulated vitamin D fortified in dairy products on the symptoms of insomnia and associated improvement of quality of life. METHODS A case series was undertaken as part of the Survey of ultraviolent intake by nutritional approach project. Subjects enrolled among adults with abdominal obesity. Twenty-nine subjects with insomnia were selected according to the results of Insomnia Severity Index questionnaire and quality of life using a Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Subjects were allocated to four groups: low-fat milk fortified by 1,500 IU vitamin D3 (n = 8), simple milk (n = 8), low-fat yogurt fortified by 1,500 IU vitamin D3 (n = 7), and simple yogurt (n = 6) and were treated for 10 weeks. RESULTS The insomnia score improved after the intervention in the group receiving vitamin D fortified milk compared to group receiving unfortified milk (p < .001). There were no significant differences between the two groups taking yogurt (fortified vs. unfortified). Comparison of quality of life scores between baseline and after intervention indicated significant improvements in both fortified and simple milk groups (p = .002 and p = .03, respectively); but no differences were found in the groups taking yogurt. CONCLUSION Fortified low-fat milk containing 1,500 IU vitamin D3 can improve insomnia symptoms and subsequently quality of life

Efficacy of low-fat milk and yogurt fortified with encapsulated vitamin D3 on improvement in symptoms of insomnia and quality of life: Evidence from the SUVINA trial

INTRODUCTION Sleep disorders are a common condition globally. Vitamin D receptors are present on cells in several regions of the brain. It is possible that vitamin D status may affect brain function, including sleep patterns. We aimed to evaluate the 1,500 IU of Nano-encapsulated vitamin D fortified in dairy products on the symptoms of insomnia and associated improvement of quality of life. METHODS A case series was undertaken as part of the Survey of ultraviolent intake by nutritional approach project. Subjects enrolled among adults with abdominal obesity. Twenty-nine subjects with insomnia were selected according to the results of Insomnia Severity Index questionnaire and quality of life using a Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Subjects were allocated to four groups: low-fat milk fortified by 1,500 IU vitamin D3 (n = 8), simple milk (n = 8), low-fat yogurt fortified by 1,500 IU vitamin D3 (n = 7), and simple yogurt (n = 6) and were treated for 10 weeks. RESULTS The insomnia score improved after the intervention in the group receiving vitamin D fortified milk compared to group receiving unfortified milk (p < .001). There were no significant differences between the two groups taking yogurt (fortified vs. unfortified). Comparison of quality of life scores between baseline and after intervention indicated significant improvements in both fortified and simple milk groups (p = .002 and p = .03, respectively); but no differences were found in the groups taking yogurt. CONCLUSION Fortified low-fat milk containing 1,500 IU vitamin D3 can improve insomnia symptoms and subsequently quality of life