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Nutrients
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Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition
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Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 5 July 2025 | Viewed by 4974

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Matteo Bordiga

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
Interests: food chemistry; gas chromatography; liquid chromatography; mass spectrometry; polyphenols; volatile compounds; wine chemistry; extraction; fermentation; prebiotic compounds
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Hélder Oliveira

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
REQUIMTE/LAQV, Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
Interests: anthocyanins; bioavailability; food chemistry; biochemistry; human nutrition
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Anthocyanins are the most widespread group of pigmented flavonoids, and they are responsible for the red, purple, and blue colors of many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They are one of the most important natural pigments, and, up to now, more than 600 water-soluble anthocyanins have been identified in the plant kingdom. About 90% of anthocyanin molecules are derived from the six major anthocyanidin compounds, cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, peonidin, and petunidin, by glycosylation, acylation, methylation, and hydroxylation. Anthocyanins can be found in almost all land plants. They function as phytoprotective substances, have a role in plant–animal interactions, and, as such, are important in ecophysiology and plant defense mechanisms. Recently, interest in anthocyanins has strongly increased because of their possible health benefits as dietary antioxidants. Their beneficial effects, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activity, cardiovascular disease prevention, obesity control, and diabetes alleviation properties for human health, have been documented in many publications. The dietary consumption of anthocyanins is high due to their occurrence in fruits and vegetables.

In this context, the aim of the present Special Issue is to highlight the diverse bioactivities of anthocyanins. This Special Issue welcomes clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and experiments conducted in cell or in vitro models that examine the potential health benefits of anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich foods.

Dr. Matteo Bordiga
Dr. Hélder Oliveira
Guest Editors

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • anthocyanins
  • colorant
  • health benefit
  • pigment
  • flavonoids
  • berries
  • inflammation
  • gut health
  • cardiovascular disease
  • metabolic syndrome anthocyanidins
  • bioavailability
  • antioxidants
  • biological activity

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

18 pages, 1433 KiB  
Article
Nutraceutical Properties of Thai Mulberry (Morus alba L.) and Their Effects on Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Individuals with Obesity: A Randomized, Single-Blind Crossover Trial
by Wason Parklak, Monchai Chottidao, Narongsuk Munkong, Surat Komindr, Sudjai Monkhai, Bandhita Wanikorn, Niromlee Makaje, Kanokwan Kulprachakarn, Hataichanok Chuljerm and Surasawadee Somnuk
Nutrients 2024, 16(24), 4336; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16244336 - 16 Dec 2024
Viewed by 853
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mulberries exhibit antioxidant properties that may attenuate metabolic abnormalities. Kamphaeng Saen mulberry (KPS-MB-42-1) contains anthocyanins, polyphenols, and nutrients, but few studies have explored its benefits for human health. This study investigated the effects of a concentrated mulberry drink (CMD) from the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Mulberries exhibit antioxidant properties that may attenuate metabolic abnormalities. Kamphaeng Saen mulberry (KPS-MB-42-1) contains anthocyanins, polyphenols, and nutrients, but few studies have explored its benefits for human health. This study investigated the effects of a concentrated mulberry drink (CMD) from the KPS-MB-42-1 cultivar on metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors in obese individuals. Methods: A single-blind, randomized crossover clinical pilot trial was performed on individuals with obesity. Participants consumed 100 g of CMD daily, alternating with placebo for 6 weeks. Body composition, blood pressure, and blood samples were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: This study was completed with 12 participants (7 men, 5 women, aged 30–55 years, BMI 32.1 ± 5.98 kg/m2) consuming CMD with 1041.90 mg total phenolic compounds and 35.34 mg total anthocyanins. No significant changes in body composition were observed. CMD consumption significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure, compared to baseline and placebo periods (p < 0.05). While total cholesterol, LDL-C, and HDL-C remained unchanged, triglycerides were significantly lower during CMD consumption compared to placebo periods (p < 0.05). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels were stable during CMD consumption but increased significantly with the placebo period (p < 0.05). C-reactive protein levels were also significantly lower during CMD consumption compared to placebo periods (p < 0.05). No changes in blood coagulation indicators (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and the international normalized ratio) were found. Conclusions: CMD improved metabolic markers, particularly regarding its antihypertensive effects. These findings highlight CMD’s potential as a health drink for managing metabolic syndrome and preventing chronic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 6961 KiB  
Article
Composition of Human-Associated Gut Microbiota Determines 3-DF and 3-HF Anti-Colitic Activity in IL-10 -/- Mice
by Jose Haro-Reyes, Jayaprakash Kanijam Raghupathi and Lavanya Reddivari
Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4232; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234232 - 7 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1049
Abstract
Background: Gut bacterial dysbiosis along with intestinal mucosal disruption plays a critical role in inflammatory disorders like ulcerative colitis. Flavonoids and other food bioactives have been studied in mice models as alternative treatments with minimal side effects. However, most of the research has [...] Read more.
Background: Gut bacterial dysbiosis along with intestinal mucosal disruption plays a critical role in inflammatory disorders like ulcerative colitis. Flavonoids and other food bioactives have been studied in mice models as alternative treatments with minimal side effects. However, most of the research has been carried out with mice-native microbiota, which limits the comprehension of the interaction between flavonoids and human-associated bacteria. Hence, the objective of our study was to determine the effect of healthy human-associated microbiota on the anti-colitic activity of diets rich in anthocyanins (3-HF) and phlobaphenes (3-DF). Methods: In this regard, the interleukin (IL)-10 -/- mice model was utilized. Mice were divided into three groups for inoculation with human gut bacteria from three different healthy donors and assigned to four diets. A purified diet (Diet P) and three diets containing 25% near-isogenic lines (NILs) of corn were evaluated. Diets were substituted with NILs expressing only 3-DFs (diet B), only 3-HFs (diet C), and both 3-DF and 3-HF (diet D). Results: In an overall analysis, flavonoid-rich diets did not affect inflammatory markers, microbiota diversity, or gut metabolites, but diets containing anthocyanins improved barrier function parameters. However, when data was segmented by the recipient’s microbiota from different human donors, the diet effects became significant. Furthermore, 3-HFs showed more beneficial effects than 3-DFs across the recipient’s microbiota. Conclusions: Our study suggests that the anti-colitic activity of 3-DF and 3-HF and their gut metabolites depends on the donor’s microbial composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 1819 KiB  
Article
Efficacy and Safety of Anthocyanin-Rich Extract in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Luc Biedermann, Michael Doulberis, Philipp Schreiner, Ole Haagen Nielsen, Frans Olivier The, Stephan Brand, Sabine Burk, Petr Hruz, Pascal Juillerat, Claudia Krieger-Grübel, Kristin Leu, Gabriel E. Leventhal, Benjamin Misselwitz, Sylvie Scharl, Alain Schoepfer, Frank Seibold, Hans Herfarth and Gerhard Rogler
Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4197; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234197 - 4 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1138
Abstract
Background: Bilberries are effective in inducing clinical, endoscopic, and biochemical improvement in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of anthocyanin-rich extract (ACRE), the bioactive ingredient of bilberries, in a controlled clinical trial in moderate-to-severe UC. [...] Read more.
Background: Bilberries are effective in inducing clinical, endoscopic, and biochemical improvement in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of anthocyanin-rich extract (ACRE), the bioactive ingredient of bilberries, in a controlled clinical trial in moderate-to-severe UC. Methods: A multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study with a parallel group was conducted. Initially, the study was planned for 100 patients; nevertheless, it prematurely ended due to COVID-19. Patients had moderate-to-severe active UC at screening (a Mayo score of 6–12, an endoscopic sub-score ≥ 2) and were randomized at baseline. The primary endpoint was a clinical response (week 8, a total Mayo score reduction ≥ 3 points). Fecal calprotectin (FC) and a centrally read endoscopic response were among the secondary endpoints. Results: Out of 48 patients (6 Swiss centers), 34 were randomized. Eighteen ACRE and eight placebo patients could be analyzed (per protocol set). Half (9/18) of ACRE patients and 3/8 of placebo patients responded clinically (p = 0.278). An improvement in the Mayo score was observed in the ACRE arm (77.8% vs. 62.5% placebo). FC dropped from 1049 ± 1139 to 557 ± 756 μg/g for ACRE but not for the placebo group (947 ± 1039 to 1040 ± 1179; p = 0.035). Serious adverse events were rare. Conclusions: ACRE treatment did not yield significant superiority to the placebo. Furthermore, the placebo response was unusually high. Moreover, there was a significant calprotectin decrease at the end of treatment, indicative of ACRE efficacy in UC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 3245 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Kale Extract Versus Ibuprofen After Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blind Split-Mouth Clinical Trial
by Vuttinun Chatupos, Sansanee Neelawatanasook, Tidanut Sangutai, Atit Khanutwong, Pattaranee Srichairatanakool, Wachiraporn Tipsuwan, Onsaya Kerdto, Narisara Paradee, Pimpisid Koonyosying and Somdet Srichairatanakool
Nutrients 2024, 16(22), 3821; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16223821 - 7 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1415
Abstract
Background/Objective: We assessed the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of kale extract (500 mg anthocyanin equivalent) in patients after mandibular molar surgery. Methods: In our randomized clinical trial, postoperative subjects (n = 20) aged 18–25 years old took kale extract or ibuprofen (400 mg) [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: We assessed the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of kale extract (500 mg anthocyanin equivalent) in patients after mandibular molar surgery. Methods: In our randomized clinical trial, postoperative subjects (n = 20) aged 18–25 years old took kale extract or ibuprofen (400 mg) capsules for 7 days, or vice versa, after surgical removal of each impacted tooth. Their pain intensity was then assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Moreover, salivary α-amylase (AA) activity, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and transforming growth factor beta2 (TGF-β2) concentrations were measured. Levels of VAS and AA decreased 7 days after the first and second molar extractions in the two treatment groups. Results: The kale extract was more effective than ibuprofen. MMP-9 and TGF-β2 levels were reduced on days 4 and 7 following the two extractions in the kale group, whereas they were reduced on days 4 and 7 following the first extraction in the ibuprofen group. There was a positive correlation between MMP-9 and TGF-β2. Thus, the consumption of the kale extract exerted analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects during the postoperative period in patients who had undergone molar extractions. In conclusion, anthocyanin-abundant kale extract is preferable when administered in a postoperative course and could reduce the need for a prescription of ibuprofen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthocyanins and Human Health—2nd Edition)
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