Beetroot, beetleaves and rocket, as sources of nitrogen and sulfur containing compounds, attenuate lipid accumulation in adipocytes

Nitrate and nitrite ions, found in green leafy vegetables, have been shown to have beneficial effects in the cardiovascular system, including cardioprotection, blood pressure reduction, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, while also improving metabolic health [1] [2]. Likewise, Η2S released from sulfur-containing compounds, like glucoerucin and glucoraphanin, has vasodilator and antihypertensive properties and stimulates angiogenesis [3]. Given their beneficial effects, various dietary supplements based on food plants rich in nitrogen and sulfur containing compounds have been developed. Herein, we studied extracts from beet (Beta vulgaris) and rocket (Eruca sativa), and evaluated their biological activity related to lipid accumulation in adipocytes. Beetroot, beetleaves and rocket were bought from local producers. Various, drying and extractions protocols were developed based on maceration with water, ultrasound assisted extraction and supercritical fluid extraction, targeting to the production of environmentally friendly extracts, with high yields and especially high content in nitrate. The extracts were then evaluated for their ability to reduce lipid storage in cultured adipocytes. Beetroot juice and leaves extracts, as well as preparations from rocket attenuated fatty acid storage. We conclude that beet and rocket extracts and their combinations can be used for the preparation of dietary supplements with potentially beneficial effects in individuals with obesity and/or metabolic syndrome.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
13. Dezember 2021

• References

• 1 Jones S.P., Bolli R. 2006; J. Mol. Cell Cardiol. 40: 16-23
• 2 Stamler J.S., Meissner G. 2001; Physiol. Rev. 81: 209-237
• 3 Martelli A.. et al. 2020; Br J Pharmacol. 177: 824-835