Interaction of phenolic-fruit hallmarks and seasonal rhythms

Identifier:  TDX:4068

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4068

Authors:  Manocchio, Francesca

Abstract:
Seasonal animals have physiological and behavioural variations that allow them to adapt to annual environmental changes. To achieve optimal timing, seasonal rhythms need to be entrained by external cues, such as photoperiod and nutrition. Fruitsrich in (poly)phenols are known for their numerous health benefits. According to xenohormesis theory, animals sense chemical cues in fruits to prepare them for the upcoming situation. (Poly)phenols could act as molecular signals because these secondary metabolites are produced in response to stress; therefore, fruits show distinctive phenolic hallmarks depending on the environmental conditions. The aim of this PhD thesis was to elucidate the differential healthy effects of specific phenolic-fruit hallmarks depending on the photoperiod of consumption. First, metabolic effects of new phenolic-enriched extracts from seasonal fruits on healthy F344 rats exposed to different photoperiods were investigated. Some extracts modulated several biochemical markers, such as blood glucose and lipid levels, in a photoperiod-dependent manner. Second,these fruit extracts were studied in F344 rats subjected to metabolic challenge tests to mimick metabolic disorders.