Author
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MEYDANI, MOHSEN - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University |
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Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2013 Publication Date: 5/30/2014 Citation: Meydani, M. 2014. Avenanthramides, unique polyphenols of oats with potential health effects. In: Chu, YiFang, editor. Oats Nutrition and Technology. First edition. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. p. 255-264. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Oats in addition to being a good source of carbohydrate energy in food and animal feed are considered a grain with several health benefits. It is a grain with a well-accepted healthy heart effect due to its soluble fiber b-glucan content, which reduces blood cholesterol. For a long time, the oat bath has been used as a remedy for skin irritation without an understanding of the mechanism of oats’ effects. Recently, we discovered that oats, in addition to b-glucan content, have unique polyphenols, avenanthramides (Avns), which demonstrate strong antioxidant activity and indicate several potential, beneficial health effects through their anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-itch properties. Methodologies are being developed to increase concentration of these polyphenols in the oat crop, oat products and eventually in foods for human consumption. Some of the mechanisms of Avns’ biological activities at cell and molecular levels have been investigated in cell culture systems and in limited animal studies. However, further studies are warranted to determine the potential beneficial health effects of consuming oats with high Avns content for the purpose of reducing the risk of skin irritation, coronary heart disease, and colon cancer. |
