Anti-inflammatory effect of upland potato varieties in THP-1 macrophages

Chronic inflammation represents a risk factor of various diseases. Since anthocyanins (ACNs) were found to counteract many inflammation-related diseases, including obesity-related inflammation, and consumption of carotenoids has been inversely correlated to the incidence of many chronic diseases, we evaluated the possible anti-inflammatory properties of pigmented upland potato varieties enriched in different combinations of phytonutrients as possible source of beneficial bioactives. Three commercial upland potato varieties namely Bleuet (purple skin and flesh), Desiree (red skin and yellow flesh) and Kennebec (yellow skin and white flesh) were checked as ACN-rich, carotenoid-rich and chlorogenic acid-rich respectively. THP-1 macrophages were treated with extracts from the three cultivars and challenged with LPS. The dose-dependent effects on gene expression and protein levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were evaluated. While Desiree and Bleuet acted as anti-inflammatory already at lower doses, Kennebec was effective only at higher doses. These potato varieties may exert a significant anti-inflammatory activity, representing possible functional foods against chronic inflammation.