Systemic Resolvin E1 (RvE1) Treatment Does Not Ameliorate the Severity of Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA) in Mice: A Randomized, Prospective, and Controlled Proof of Concept Study

Specialized proresolving mediators (SPRM), which arise from n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3FA), promote resolution of inflammation and may help to prevent progression of an acute inflammatory response into chronic inflammation in patients with arthritis. Thus, this study is aimed at determining whether systemic RvE1 treatment reduces arthritis onset and severity in murine collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and spontaneous cytokine production by human rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial explants. 10-week-old DBA1/J male mice were subjected to CIA and treated systemically with 0.1 μg RvE1, 1 μg RvE1, 5 mg/kg anti-TNF (positive control group), PBS (negative control group), or with a combination of 1 μg of RvE1 plus 5 mg/kg anti-TNF using prophylactic or therapeutic strategies. After CIA immunization, mice were treated twice a week by RvE1 or anti-TNF for 10 days. Arthritis development was assessed by visual scoring of paw swelling and histology of ankle joints. Moreover, human RA synovial explants were incubated with 1 nM, 10 nM, or 100 nM of RvE1, and cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, INF-γ, and TNF-α) were measured using Luminex bead array. CIA triggered significant inflammation in the synovial cavity, proteoglycan loss, and cartilage and bone destruction in the ankle joints of mice. Prophylactic and therapeutic RvE1 regimens did not ameliorate CIA incidence and severity. Anti-TNF treatment significantly abrogated signs of joint inflammation, bone erosion, and proteoglycan depletion, but additional RvE1 treatment did not further reduce the anti-TNF-mediated suppression of the disease. Treatment with different concentrations of RvE1 did not decrease the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in human RA synovial explants in the studied conditions. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that RvE1 treatment was not an effective approach to treat CIA in DBA1/J mice in both prophylactic and therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, no effects were noticed when human synovial explants were incubated with different concentrations of RvE1.

Omega-3-rich Isochrysis sp. biomass enhances brain docosahexaenoic acid levels and improves serum lipid profile and antioxidant status in Wistar rats

BACKGROUND

Isochrysis sp. is a marine microalga, rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The potential use of its biomass as an alternative source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) has not been studied in animal models. Male albino Wistar rats were divided into three groups and treated for 28 days. The rats were fed with (1) standard chow (control group), (2) microalgal biomass rich in EPA and DHA along with standard chow (microalga group), and (3) fish oil that contains equivalent amounts of EPA and DHA along with standard chow (fish oil group). After intervention, biochemical indices, histopathological indices, relative mRNA expression of PUFA genes, antioxidant genes, inflammatory markers, and the fatty acid profile of major tissues were studied.

RESULTS

Animals treated with microalgal biomass showed significantly increased serum HDL levels (P < 0.05) and reduced oxidative stress markers with a concomitant decrease in urea and creatinine levels. Oral supplementation of microalgal biomass did not show any toxicity or damage in any major organs. The mRNA expression of PUFA genes was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) and antioxidant genes were upregulated. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory markers was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) and anti-inflammatory markers were upregulated. Oral supplementation of microalgal biomass improved DHA status in brain and liver.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that Isochrysis sp. can be used as a safe, alternative food supplement for ω-3 fatty acids. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

N-Eicosapentaenoyl Dopamine, A Conjugate of Dopamine and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), Exerts Anti-inflammatory Properties in Mouse and Human Macrophages

A large body of evidence suggests that dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), contribute to a reduced inflammatory tone thereby lowering the risk for several chronic and degenerative diseases. Different mechanisms have been proposed to explain these anti-inflammatory effects, including those involving endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like molecules. In this context, fatty acid amides (FAAs), conjugates of fatty acids with amines or amino acids, are an emerging class of compounds. Dopamine conjugates of DHA (N-docosahexaenoyl dopamine, DHDA) and EPA (N-eicosapentaenoyl dopamine, EPDA) have previously been shown to induce autophagy, apoptosis, and cell death in different tumor lines. Additionally, DHDA has displayed anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. Here, we tested the immune-modulatory properties of EPDA in mouse RAW 264.7 and human THP-1 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). EPDA suppressed the production of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in both cell lines, and nitric oxide (NO), and macrophage-inflammatory protein-3α (MIP3A) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. At a transcriptional level, EPDA attenuated cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in both cell lines and that of MCP-1, IL-6, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in THP-1 macrophages. Although further research is needed to reveal whether EPDA is an endogenous metabolite, our data suggest that this EPA-derived conjugate possesses interesting immune-modulating properties.

The cost-effectiveness of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids - The Australian healthcare perspective

OBJECTIVES

To examine the cost-effectiveness of a triglyceride lowering medication-icosapent ethyl added on to statin from Australian healthcare system perspective.

METHODS

A Markov-model was developed using data from the pivotal trial of icosapent ethyl in a secondary prevention population. Probabilities of CVD events were derived and extrapolated from the published Kaplan-Meier curve using a valid algorithm. Management cost of CVD, health-related quality of life, and background non-CVD mortality were extracted from publicly available sources. Acquisition cost of icosapent ethyl from the United States was used in the current analysis. Australian patients with histories of CVD were modelled for a 25 year time horizon and costs and benefits were discounted. Sensitivity analyses (SA) were undertaken. Value of perfect information (VPI) was quantified.

RESULTS

Treatment with icosapent ethyl was associated with both higher costs and benefits (i.e. quality-adjusted life year [QALY] and life year [LY]), resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of AUD59,036/QALY or AUD54,358/LY. Using the often quoted willingness-to-pay (WTP)/QALY of AUD50,000/QALY, icosapent ethyl was not considered cost-effective. SA showed that time horizon, drug cost, and discount rate were the key drivers of the ICER. Total monetary VPI for icosapent ethyl was over AUD15 million over 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with established CVD in whom level of triglycerides is high would benefit from the treatment using icosapent ethyl, however, it is not a cost-effective from an Australian healthcare system perspective. The government may consider subsidising this medication given the clinical need but at a discounted acquisition cost.

Effect of weight loss on neutrophil resolvins in the metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Non-resolving inflammation associates with obesity and insulin resistance, and may be dependent on the balance of inflammatory substances and specialised pro-resolving mediators of inflammation (SPM) that act to halt the inflammatory response. This controlled trial examined the effect of weight loss on neutrophil synthesis of SPM in volunteers with the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

METHODS

Volunteers with MetS (n = 42) were matched for age and gender and randomly assigned to a 12-wk weight loss program followed by 4-wk weight stabilization or a 16-wk weight maintenance program. At baseline and 16 weeks, isolated neutrophils were stimulated with calcium ionophore and the released SPM were measured by LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

At baseline the SPM resolvin (Rv) E1, 18R-RvE3, RvD2 and Maresin-1 (MaR-1) were detected from stimulated neutrophils. The concentration of released RvE1 was at least 6-fold that of other detected SPM. Weight loss of 4.7 ± 0.8 kg, led to a 2-fold increase in RvE1, P = 0.013, relative to the weight maintenance group. The increase in RvE1 after weight loss was related to, but independent of leukotriene B_4. CONCLUSION: Following weight loss, human neutrophils from individuals with the metabolic syndrome are capable of releasing larger amounts of RvE1 upon stimulation.

Redox status and fatty acid composition of Mactra corallina digestive gland following exposure to acrylamide

Acrylamide (ACR), a ubiquitous agent, has various chemical and industrial applications, and it is found in backed or fried carbohydrate-rich food. It has been related to multiple toxicological effects, and it causes high cytotoxicity through oxidative stress. The present study aimed to investigate the potential effect of ACR toxicity administered at different concentrations (5, 10, and 20 mg/L), during 5 days, in order to evaluate the fatty acid (FA) composition and redox state in the digestive gland of Mactra corallina. The results showed, in ACR-treated clams, a significant increase in malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, protein carbonyl, and metallothionein levels, as well as an alteration of the enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase) and non-enzymatic (reduced glutathione and ascorbic acid) antioxidant status. However, acetylcholinesterase activity was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner. In our experiment, the n-3 (Omega-3) and n-6 (Omega-6) polyunsaturated fatty acid levels were significantly changed in all ACR-treated groups. A decrease in eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n-3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n-3, DHA) was observed in 10-mg/L and 20-mg/L ACR-treated groups. Nevertheless, arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6, ARA) and its precursor linoleic acid (C18:2n-6, LA) were increased. Besides oxidative stress parameters, FA composition may be an additional tool for assessing ACR contamination.

Icosapent ethyl for dyslipidaemia in patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease: Act now to reduce it

The risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) can be significantly reduced in patients with diabetes who are undergoing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-reducing therapies. However, the elevated triglyceride levels seen in diabetic dyslipidaemia can contribute to residual ASCVD risk. Icosapent ethyl (IPE) has recently been shown to substantially reduce major cardiovascular events in high-risk patients with hypertriglyceridaemia who are undergoing statin therapy. In a real-world study of patients with diabetes and acute coronary syndrome (ACS), 17.1% were found to be eligible for treatment with IPE based on Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial (REDUCE-IT) criteria. A significant proportion of patients with diabetes and ACS merit receiving IPE therapy, with important implications for evolving clinical practice guidelines and best standard of care.

Cardiovascular, electrophysiologic, and hematologic effects of omega-3 fatty acids beyond reducing hypertriglyceridemia: as it pertains to the recently published REDUCE-IT trial

Heart disease continues to affect health outcomes globally, accounting for a quarter of all deaths in the United States. Despite the improvement in the development and implementation of guideline-directed medical therapy, the risk of adverse cardiac events remains substantially high. Historically, it has been debated whether omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids provide clinical benefit in cardiac disease. The recently published REDUCE-IT trial demonstrated a statistically significant absolute risk reduction of 4.8% in its primary endpoint (cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina) with the use of icosapent ethyl, which is a highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) ethyl ester. However, the mechanism of action of omega-3 fatty acids is not commonly discussed. Moreover, the use of EPA was not without risk, as the incidence of atrial fibrillation was increased along with a trend towards increased bleeding risk. Thus, our aim is to help explain the function of purified EPA ethyl ester, especially at the molecular level, which will ultimately lead to a better understanding of their clinically observable effects.

Capsaicin Analogues Derived from n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) Reduce Inflammatory Activity of Macrophages and Stimulate Insulin Secretion by β-Cells In Vitro

In this study, two capsaicin analogues, N-eicosapentaenoyl vanillylamine (EPVA) and N-docosahexaenoyl vanillylamine (DHVA), were enzymatically synthesized from their corresponding n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both dietary relevant components. The compounds significantly reduced the production of some lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory mediators, including nitric oxide (NO), macrophage-inflammatory protein-3α (CCL20) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1 or CCL2), by RAW264.7 macrophages. Next to this, only EPVA increased insulin secretion by pancreatic INS-1 832/13 β-cells, while raising intracellular Ca2+ and ATP concentrations. This suggests that the stimulation of insulin release occurs through an increase in the intracellular ATP/ADP ratio in the first phase, while is calcium-mediated in the second phase. Although it is not yet known whether EPVA is endogenously produced, its potential therapeutic value for diabetes treatment merits further investigation.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake norms and preterm birth rate: a cross-sectional analysis of 184 countries

BACKGROUND

The preponderance of evidence now indicates that elevated long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC omega-3 PUFA) intake is often associated with reduced risk of preterm birth (PTB). This conclusion is based on recent meta-analyses that include several studies that reported null findings. We probed the reasons for this heterogeneity across studies and its implications for PTB prevention using country-level data.

METHODS

We analysed the relationship between national PTB rates (<37 weeks of gestation) and omega-3 PUFA intake norms from 184 countries for the year 2010. To estimate the total LC omega-3 PUFA levels (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA]/docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) that these norms produce we utilised a metric that accounts for (1) seafood-based omega-3 intake (EPA/DHA) and (2) plant-based omega-3 intake (alpha-linolenic acid [ALA]), ~20% of which is converted to EPA/DHA in vivo. We then assessed the shape of the omega-3-PTB relationship with a penalised spline and conducted linear regression analyses within the linear sections of the relationship.

RESULTS

Penalised spline analyses indicated that PTB rates decrease linearly with increasing omega-3 levels up to ~600 mg/day. Income-adjusted linear regression analysis among the countries in this exposure range indicated that the number of PTBs per 100 live births decreases by 1.5 (95% CI 2.8 to 0.3) for each 1 SD increase in omega-3 intake norms (383 mg/day).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken with prior evidence for a causal association on the individual level, our findings indicate that omega-3 PUFA deficiency may be a widespread contributing factor in PTB risk. Consideration of baseline omega-3 PUFA levels is critical in the design of future interventions.

Comparison of Fatty Acid Profiles in a Group of Female Patients with Chronic Kidney Diseases (CKD) and Metabolic Syndrome (MetS)⁻Similar Trends of Changes, Different Pathophysiology

Fatty acid (FA) profiles in the plasma of patients with metabolic syndrome and chronic kidney disease (CKD) seem to be identical despite their different etiology (dietary mistakes vs. cachexia). The aim of this study was to compare both profiles and to highlight the differences that could influence the improvement of the treatment of patients in both groups. The study involved 73 women, including 24 patients with chronic kidney disease treated with haemodialysis, 19 patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and 30 healthy women in the control group. A total of 35 fatty acids and derivatives were identified and quantified by gas chromatography. Intensified elongation processes from acid C10:0 to C16:0 were noted in both groups (more intense in MetS), as well as an increased synthesis of arachidonic acid (C20:4n6), which was more intense in CKD. Significant correlations of oleic acid (C18:1n9), gamma linoleic acid (C18:3n6), and docosatetraenoate acid (C22:4n6) with parameters of CKD patients were observed. In the MetS group, auxiliary metabolic pathways of oleic acid were activated, which simultaneously inhibited the synthesis of eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from alpha lipoic acid (ALA). On the other hand, in the group of female patients with CKD, the synthesis of EPA and DHA was intensified. Activation of the synthesis of oleic acid (C18: 1n9 ct) and trans-vaccinic acid (C18:1) is a protective mechanism in kidney diseases and especially in MetS due to the increased concentration of saturated fatty acid (SFA) in plasma. The cause of the increased amount of all FAs in plasma in the CKD group, especially in the case of palmitic (C16:0) and derivatives stearic (C18:0) acids, may be the decomposition of adipose tissue and the progressing devastation of the organism, whereas, in the MetS group, dietary intake seems to be the main reason for the increase in SFA. Moreover, in MetS, auxiliary metabolic pathways are activated for oleic acid, which cause the simultaneous inhibition of EPA and DHA synthesis from ALA, whereas, in the CKD group, we observe an increased synthesis of EPA and DHA. The higher increase of nervonic acid (C24:1) in CKD suggests a higher degree of demyelination and loss of axons.

A Novel Dietary Source of EPA and DHA: Metabolic Engineering of an Important Freshwater Species-Common Carp by fat1-Transgenesis

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n-3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3, DHA), are essential for neural development and human health. The n-3 PUFAs are mainly obtained from marine fish by dietary intake. Freshwater fish species usually contain low level of n-3 PUFAs due to the lack of n-3 PUFAs in their food chain. In this study, we report on the substantial production of EPA and DHA in a globally important freshwater fish species, common carp (Cyprinus carpio). This was achieved by introducing an "all-fish" transgene CA:fat1 containing the fish codon-optimized omega-3 desaturase gene (fat1) driven by the common carp β-actin promoter (CA). Through a sperm sample screening method, we successfully generated fat1-positive F1 transgenic population with high efficiency. In F1 population, the muscle contents of ALA (18:3n-3), EPA and DHA were significantly increased when compared with non-transgenic siblings. Thereafter, four independent F2 heterozygous lines were obtained from 4 F1 transgenic males and a detailed comparison of fatty acids profile and growth performance was carried out for these 4 lines. All fat1-transgenic common carps from 4 lines showed an evident decrease in n-6 PUFA contents and a substantial increase in n-3 PUFA contents, among which line 4 stands out, showing a statistically significant increase in all 4 types of n-3 PUFAs including ALA (4.4-fold increase, p < 0.001), EPA (4.8-fold increase, p < 0.01), C22:5n-3 (DPA, 2.4-fold increase, p < 0.05), and DHA (1.9-fold increase, p < 0.05). Therefore, the line 4 was selected as the optimized breeding stock for further study, and the proximate nutrition composition and PUFA synthesis pathway were analyzed. Our study demonstrates that in the transgenic group, the muscular lipid content did not change, while fat accumulations in the internal organs and especially in the liver were significantly decreased as a result of hyperactivation of fatty acid oxidation process. Finally, we conclude that the "all-fish" CA:fat1-transgenic freshwater fish-common carp-can serve as a novel healthy dietary source of n3-PUFAs, especially EPA and DHA.

A randomized trial comparing omega-3 fatty acid plasma levels after ingestion of emulsified and non-emulsified cod liver oil formulations

OBJECTIVES

Emulsified formulations of omega-3 fatty acids may increase plasma concentrations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) compared with non-emulsified formulations. The current study evaluated plasma concentrations of DHA + EPA as well as DHA and EPA individually following administration of emulsified vs non-emulsified cod liver oil formulations.

METHODS

In this randomized, 2-period, crossover study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02428699), 47 healthy adults received single doses of an emulsified cod liver oil formulation and a non-emulsified cod liver oil formulation, each containing 10% cod liver oil plus 10% cod oil and closely matched DHA and EPA content. Blood samples were collected for 24 h after dosing to analyze DHA and EPA plasma concentrations using a validated methodology. DHA + EPA, DHA, and EPA pharmacokinetics were compared using an analysis of covariance model. The incremental area under the plasma concentration curve at 24 h (iAUC_0-24 h) for DHA + EPA was the primary endpoint.

RESULTS

DHA + EPA, DHA, and EPA plasma concentrations reached higher levels in plasma following administration of the emulsified vs non-emulsified formulation. The emulsified cod liver oil formulation produced iAUC_0-24 h values for DHA + EPA, DHA, and EPA that were 1.66, 1.78, and 1.64 times higher, respectively, than the non-emulsified formulation; iAUC_0-10 h values were 1.84, 1.96, and 1.79 times higher, respectively (all p < 0.01). Maximum concentrations of DHA + EPA, DHA, and EPA in plasma were significantly higher for the emulsified than the non-emulsified formulation (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

DHA + EPA, DHA, and EPA plasma concentrations were significantly higher for the emulsified cod liver oil supplement vs the reference non-emulsified cod liver oil supplement.

Adaptive evolution of microalgal strains empowered by fulvic acid for enhanced polyunsaturated fatty acid production

Microalgae have emerged as the potential source for value-added products such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Metabolic engineering of multiple metabolic pathways has promoted eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) production in microalgae, however, further improvement is warranted owing to the burgeoning demand. Here we improved the microalgal strains by adaptive evolution under hyposalinity treatment, which showed that 70% salinity potentiated the algae to enhance PUFAs. To exploit the maximal PUFA production potential of evolved strains, we subjected evolved algae to light, temperature and fulvic acid treatment. Amongst, fulvic acid (15 mg/L) enhanced growth and achieved the highest EPA content (13.9%) in the evolved diatom. Fulvic acid enhanced antioxidant potential and unprecedently governed the expression of PUFA and lipid biosynthetic genes. Collectively, this investigation demonstrates the efficacy of adaptive evolution empowered by fulvic acid and exemplifies a feasible strain improving strategy to harness the biotechnological potential of microalgae.

Carbohydrate intake attenuates post-exercise plasma levels of cytochrome P450-generated oxylipins

Introduction

Oxylipins are bioactive oxidation products derived from n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the linoleic acid and α-linolenic desaturation pathways.

Purpose

This study determined if carbohydrate intake during prolonged and intensive cycling countered post-exercise increases in n-6 and n-3 PUFA-derived oxylipins.

Methods

The research design utilized a randomized, crossover, counterbalanced approach with cyclists (N = 20, overnight fasted state, 7:00 am start) who engaged in four 75-km time trials while ingesting two types of bananas (Cavendish, Mini-yellow), a 6% sugar beverage, and water only. Carbohydrate intake was set at 0.2 g/kg every 15 minutes, and blood samples were collected pre-exercise and 0 h-, 0.75 h-,1.5 h-, 3 h-, 4.5 h-, 21 h-, 45 h-post-exercise. Oxylipins were measured with a targeted liquid chromatography-multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometric method.

Results

Significant time effects and substantial fold-increases (immediately post-exercise/pre-exercise) were measured for plasma levels of arachidonic acid (ARA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and 43 of 45 oxylipins. Significant interaction effects (4 trials x 8 time points) were found for plasma ARA (P<0.001) and DHA (P<0.001), but not EPA (P = 0.255), with higher post-exercise values found in the water trial compared to the carbohydrate trials. Significant interaction effects were also measured for 12 of 45 oxylipins. The data supported a strong exercise-induced increase in plasma levels of these oxylipins during the water trial, with carbohydrate ingestion (both bananas types and the sugar beverage) attenuating oxylipin increases, especially those (9 of 12) generated from the cytochrome P-450 (CYP) enzyme system. These trials differences were especially apparent within the first three hours of recovery from the 75-km cycling bout.

Conclusions

Prolonged and intensive exercise evoked a transient but robust increase in plasma levels of oxylipins, with a significant attenuation effect linked to acute carbohydrate ingestion for 28% of these, especially those generated through the CYP enzyme system.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, U.S. National Institutes of Health, NCT02994628

Growth and Biochemical Composition of Porphyridium purpureum SCS-02 under Different Nitrogen Concentrations

Microalgae of the genus Porphyridium show great potential for large-scale commercial cultivation, as they accumulate large quantities of B-phycoerythrin (B-PE), long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) and exopolysaccharide (EPS). The present study aimed to adjust culture nitrogen concentrations to produce Porphyridium biomass rich in B-PE, LC-PUFAs and EPS. Porphyridium purpureum SCS-02 was cultured in ASW culture medium with low nitrogen supply (LN, 3.5 mM), medium nitrogen supply (MN, 5.9 mM) or high nitrogen supply (HN, 17.6 mM). HN significantly enhanced the accumulation of biomass, intracellular protein, B-PE and eicosapentaenoic acid. LN increased the intracellular carbohydrate and arachidonic acid content, and promoted the secretion of EPS. The total lipids content was almost unaffected by nitrogen concentration. Based on these results, a semi-continuous two-step process was proposed, which included the production of biomass rich in B-PE and LC-PUFAs with sufficient nitrogen, and induced EPS excretion with limited nitrogen and strong light.

Cardiovascular Risk Reduction with Icosapent Ethyl for Hypertriglyceridemia

BACKGROUND

Patients with elevated triglyceride levels are at increased risk for ischemic events. Icosapent ethyl, a highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester, lowers triglyceride levels, but data are needed to determine its effects on ischemic events.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving patients with established cardiovascular disease or with diabetes and other risk factors, who had been receiving statin therapy and who had a fasting triglyceride level of 135 to 499 mg per deciliter (1.52 to 5.63 mmol per liter) and a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level of 41 to 100 mg per deciliter (1.06 to 2.59 mmol per liter). The patients were randomly assigned to receive 2 g of icosapent ethyl twice daily (total daily dose, 4 g) or placebo. The primary end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina. The key secondary end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke.

RESULTS

A total of 8179 patients were enrolled (70.7% for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events) and were followed for a median of 4.9 years. A primary end-point event occurred in 17.2% of the patients in the icosapent ethyl group, as compared with 22.0% of the patients in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.68 to 0.83; P<0.001); the corresponding rates of the key secondary end point were 11.2% and 14.8% (hazard ratio, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.83; P<0.001). The rates of additional ischemic end points, as assessed according to a prespecified hierarchical schema, were significantly lower in the icosapent ethyl group than in the placebo group, including the rate of cardiovascular death (4.3% vs. 5.2%; hazard ratio, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.98; P=0.03). A larger percentage of patients in the icosapent ethyl group than in the placebo group were hospitalized for atrial fibrillation or flutter (3.1% vs. 2.1%, P=0.004). Serious bleeding events occurred in 2.7% of the patients in the icosapent ethyl group and in 2.1% in the placebo group (P=0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with elevated triglyceride levels despite the use of statins, the risk of ischemic events, including cardiovascular death, was significantly lower among those who received 2 g of icosapent ethyl twice daily than among those who received placebo. (Funded by Amarin Pharma; REDUCE-IT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01492361 .).

Can Yellow Stripe Scad Compete with Salmon on Its Role in Platelet Phospholipid Membrane and Its Cardiovascular Benefits?

This review article stresses the effective role of dietary fish fillet docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on overweight as a risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) via platelet phospholipid modification. Several reports have demonstrated that saturated fat in overweight evokes systemic inflammation and more importantly predisposes it to cardiovascular disorder. Prospective studies have shown that saturated fat is directly proportional to the level of arachidonic acids (AA), precursor of thromboxane in the platelet phospholipid membrane as omega-6 fatty acid in overweight and obese people. Some literature has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acid from fish fillet ameliorates inflammation, reduces proinflammatory cytokine, inhibits signaling pathway, and regulates the physical composition of inflammatory leukocytes and free radicals (ROS). Yellow stripe scad (YSS) is a local Malaysian fish that has been shown to contain a comparable level of EPA/DHA content as observed in salmon. This review article will focus on the dietary role of fish fillet that will balance the omega-6 fatty acid/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in platelet phospholipid from YSS to manage and prevent healthy overweight/obesity-related risk factor of CVD and to avoid the risk orthodox drug treatment.

Combined administration of docosahexaenoic acid and thyroid hormone synergistically enhances rat liver levels of resolvins RvD1 and RvD2

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids or thyroid hormone (T₃) exhibit negative effects on inflammatory reactions in experimental animals. The aim of this work was to assess the hypothesis that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) plus T₃ co-administration enhances liver resolvin (Rv) levels as inflammation resolution mediators. Combined DHA (daily doses of 300 mg/kg for 3 consecutive days)-T₃ (0.05 mg/kg at the fourth day) administration significantly increased the content of hepatic RvD1 and RvD2, without changes in that of RvE1 and RvE2, an effect that exhibits synergy when compared to the separate DHA and T₃ treatments. Under these conditions, liver DHA levels increased by DHA administration were diminished when combined with T₃ (p < 0.05), suggesting enhancement in resolvin D biosynthesis in extrahepatic tissues. It is concluded that co-administration of DHA and T₃ rises the capacity of the liver for inflammation resolution by augmenting RvD1(2) availability, which represents an important protocol in hepatoprotection in the clinical setting.

Continuous Gradient Temperature Raman Spectroscopy of Fish Oils Provides Detailed Vibrational Analysis and Rapid, Nondestructive Graphical Product Authentication

Background: Gradient temperature Raman spectroscopy (GTRS) applies the continuous temperature gradients utilized in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to Raman spectroscopy, providing a new means for rapid high throughput material identification and quality control. Methods: Using 20 Mb three-dimensional data arrays with 0.2 °C increments and first/second derivatives allows complete assignment of solid, liquid and transition state vibrational modes. The entire set or any subset of the any of the contour plots, first derivatives or second derivatives can be utilized to create a graphical standard to quickly authenticate a given source. In addition, a temperature range can be specified that maximizes information content. Results: We compared GTRS and DSC data for five commercial fish oils that are excellent sources of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3). Each product has a unique, distinctive response to the thermal gradient, which graphically and spectroscopically differentiates them. We also present detailed Raman data and full vibrational mode assignments for EPA and DHA. Conclusion: Complex lipids with a variety of fatty acids and isomers have three dimensional structures based mainly on how structurally similar sites pack. Any localized non-uniformity in packing results in discrete “fingerprint” molecular sites due to increased elasticity and decreased torsion.

Effect of psychiatric drugs on Daphnia magna oxylipin profiles

Neuro-active pharmaceuticals have been reported to act as endocrine disruptors enhancing reproduction in the model crustacean Daphnia manga at environmental concentrations of ng/L. Oxylipins and more specifically eicosanoids, which are lipid mediators formed from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are known to regulate reproduction together with other physiological processes in insects. In D. magna, the biosynthesis of eicosanoids and their putative role in the regulation of reproduction has been studied using transcriptomics, genomics and exposures to cyclooxygenase inhibitors. Quantification of eicosanoids and oxylipins derived from PUFAs upon exposure to pharmaceuticals is therefore crucial for a better understanding of the mode of action of neuro-active pharmaceuticals on aquatic invertebrates. The aim of this study was to investigate shifts in the oxylipin profile in D. magna adults upon exposure to environmental concentrations of the three psychiatric drugs, fluoxetine, diazepam and carbamazepine, with known effects of enhancing offspring production. Oxylipin profiles were determined in whole organism tissues using ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Up to 28 different oxylipins belonging to arachidonic (AA), linoleic acid (LA), α-linoleic acid (α-LA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) pathways were detected and quantified in D. magna adults. Exposure to the selected psychiatric drugs showed that fluoxetine enhanced the accumulation of the cyclooxygenase (COX) product 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (12-HHTrE), whereas diazepam increased the concentration of eicosanoids belonging to the lipoxygenase (LOX) and cytochrome P450 (CYP) pathways (HETEs, EpOMEs, HODEs, HOTrEs and HEPEs) from the AA, LA, αLA and EPA pathways. Carbamazepine had little effect and only one LA-derived compound from the LOX pathway (13-HODE) increased significantly. This means that despite having different modes of action in humans, fluoxetine and diazepam up-regulated eicosanoid pathways in D. magna, closely related to known biologically active products that regulate reproduction in insects.

Fat-1 Transgene Is Associated With Improved Reproductive Outcomes

High intake of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) has been associated with a variety of health benefits. However, the role of ω-3 PUFAs in female reproductive function is unclear, with studies showing both positive and negative effects. The type of diet that ω-3 fatty acids are consumed with, for example, a balanced diet vs a high-fat diet (HFD), may influence how ω-3 fatty acids affect female reproductive function. To address the role of ω-3 PUFAs in female reproduction, we used the fat-1 mouse both with and without HFD exposure. Fat-1 mice constitutively express the fat-1 transgene, allowing the conversion of ω-6 to ω-3 fatty acids to yield an optimal tissue ratio of ω-6 to ω-3 fatty acids (∼1:1). In our study, at 15 weeks of age, fat-1 mice had elevated primordial follicles compared with wild-type controls with both standard chow and HFD feeding. Higher serum levels of the ω-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were positively associated with primordial follicle numbers, whereas the ratio of the ω-6 arachidonic acid to EPA + DPA + DHA had the opposite effect. Furthermore, fat-1 mice had increased pregnancy rates and shorter time to pregnancy when fed an HFD compared with wild-type mice. In conclusion, our novel preclinical model suggests that high tissue levels of long-chain ω-3 PUFAs are associated with an improved ovarian reserve and improved reproductive outcomes. Further studies are needed to evaluate ω-3 PUFAs as a potential intervention strategy in women with diminished ovarian reserve.