PLANT BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS FOR SUSTAINABLE NUTRITION AND PREVENTION OF METABOLIC DISEASES
Chronic metabolic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders, represent a significant global health challenge. Their prevalence continues to rise, necessitating innovative approaches to prevention and treatment. This work focus on bioactive compounds derived from legumes and pseudocereals that have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of metabolic-related chronic diseases. These compounds include polyphenols and peptides, both renowned for their distinctive bioactivity. Central to this thesis is the rigorous evaluation of the bioactive compounds' efficacy in preventing and ameliorating metabolic-related chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. In vitro and ex vivo studies provides insights into the peptides' therapeutic potential. These studies elucidate the compounds' mechanisms of action and their ability to modulate crucial pathways including their role in modulating glucose metabolism, mitigating oxidative stress, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Subsequently, the investigation delves into the characterization of protein’s glycosylation. Advanced analytical techniques, including chromatography and light scattering analysis, are harnessed to elucidate the structural and biochemical attributes of glycoproteins that influence not only their bioactivity but also can contribute to their allergenic potential. In fact, crucial in the study of bioactive peptides, potentially usable for the treatment of chronic disorders, is their potential allergenicity. Cross reactivity with known allergens such as soybean or peanut is indeed a potential issue in the development of these products. In this work, we therefore also focused on studying the interaction of proteins and peptides with dendritic cells and their ability to develop allergic reactions with IgE and IgG antibodies. Furthermore, sustainability considerations play a pivotal role throughout this research. The significance of vegetable proteins lies not only in their role as an alternative protein source but also in their potential to address pressing global challenges as their cultivation typically requires fewer resources, such as land, water, and energy, compared to conventional livestock farming. By shedding light on the bioactive compounds of legumes and pseudocereals and their potential in the context of metabolicrelated chronic disease treatment, this research contributes to the evolving landscape of nutritional sciences. Ultimately, this work aspires to facilitate the development of innovative dietary interventions that hold promise in enhancing public health and fostering a sustainable future.
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