Brazil nut consumption modulates Nrf2 expression in hemodialysis patients: A pilot study.

SCOPE

Previous studies showed that the supplementation with Brazil nut is effective in improving Se status, reduce oxidative stress, and inflammation in hemodialysis (HD) patients. As the nutritional compounds may promote the reduction of inflammation by activation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), the aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of Brazil nut supplementation on Nrf2 activation in HD patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thirteen HD patients received one Brazil nut supplementation per day for 3 months and were compared to 12 HD patients without supplementation. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and processed for expression of nuclear factor kappa B, Nrf2, and

NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) by quantitative real-time PCR. Plasma malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein and IL-6 levels were measured before and after supplementation. The Nrf2 expression increased and nuclear factor kappa B expression reducedpost supplementation. In addition, the cytokines and malondialdehyde levels decreased significantly. No significant alterations were found in the control group.

CONCLUSION

This preliminary result indicates the effectiveness of Brazil nut supplementation on human Nrf2 activation in HD patients and could be a possible explanation for the beneficial effects of this nut as a bioactive compound.