The critical role of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine metabolism in health and disease

Epigenetic changes in pyloric caeca of Atlantic salmon fed diets containing increasing levels of lipids and choline

An earlier study of ours investigating the effect of dietary lipid levels on the choline requirement of Atlantic salmon showed increasing severity of intestinal steatosis with increasing lipid levels. As choline is involved in epigenetic regulation by being the key methyl donor, pyloric caeca samples from the study were analysed for epigenetic effects of dietary lipid and choline levels. The diets varied in lipid levels between 16% and 28%, and choline levels between 1.9 and 2.3 g/kg. The diets were fed for 8 weeks to Atlantic salmon of 25 g of initial weight. Using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS), this study revealed that increasing dietary lipid levels induced methylation differences in genes involved in membrane transport and signalling pathways, and in microRNAs important for the regulation of lipid homoeostasis. Increasing choline levels also affected genes involved in fatty acid biosynthesis and transport, lipolysis, and lipogenesis, as well as important immune genes. Our observations confirmed that choline is involved in epigenetic regulation in Atlantic salmon, as has been reported for higher vertebrates. This study showed the need for the inclusion of biomarkers of epigenetic processes in studies that must be conducted to define optimal choline levels in diets for Atlantic salmon.

Asterias Rolleston starfish gonad lipids: A novel source of Omega-3 fatty acids - assessment of major components and their antioxidant activities

The major lipids and antioxidant activities of Asterias rolleston gonad lipids were evaluated systematically. Major lipids of A. Rolleston gonad lipids were triacylglycerols (TAGs) and phospholipids (PLs). Total lipids were composed of 15.62% of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and 40.81% of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). The most abundant PUFA were C20:5n-3 (EPA) (6.28%) and C22:6n-3 (DHA) (5.80%). Predominantly composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), polar lipids were rich in PUFAs and could contain up to 34.59% EPA and DHA, and PE and PI (phosphatidylinositol) were also found to be the main carriers of EPA and ARA (arachidonic acid) in polar lipids. The MUFA and PUFA of Sn-2 in TAG are 39.72% and 30.37%, respectively. A total of 64 TAG species were identified, with Eo-P-M, Eo-Eo-M, and M-M-Eo being the main TAGs components. Moreover, A. rollestoni gonad lipids exhibited potent radical scavenging activities and reducing power in a dose-dependent manner.

Morinda officinalis iridoid glycosides alleviate methotrexate-induced liver injury in CIA rats by increasing liver autophagy and improving lipid metabolism homeostasis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Morinda officinalis How. is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb with the pharmacological properties of tonifying liver and kidney, and enhancing bone and muscle. Iridoid glycosides are the predominant components of this plant, including monotropein, asperuloside, deacetylasperuloside and deacetylasperulosidic acid with their contents reaching more than 2%. Methotrexate (MTX) is the drug of choice for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but liver injury induced by MTX limits its wider use for RA. Morindaofficinalis iridoid glycoside (MOIG) is reported as having anti-RA and hepatoprotective effects, but the exact efficacy on MTX-induced liver injury and the underlying molecular mechanism remain unclear.

AIM

To elucidate the mitigating effect of MOIG against liver injury in RA rats treated with MTX, and explore the possible mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect and mechanism of MOIG were investigated in Wistar rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) which were then treated with MTX, and MTX-induced hepatocyte injury in vitro. Network pharmacological and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to predict the possible mechanisms of MOIG in mitigating MTX-induced liver injury, and lipidomic analysis was performed to further verify the regulatory effects of MOIG on lipid metabolism. BRL-3A hepatocytes were used to evaluate the regulatory effects of MOIG against MTX-associated liver injury.

RESULTS

MOIG treatment enhanced the anti-RA effect of MTX, and mitigated oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis of liver tissues in CIA rats treated with MTX. Network pharmacological and transcriptomic analyses demonstrated that MOIG attenuated liver injury by regulating autophagy and lipid metabolism. The result of lipidomic analysis showed that MOIG reversed the disturbance of lipid metabolism of the liver tissue in CIA rats after MTX treatment. In addition, MOIG also inhibited the apoptosis, reduced the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (ALT) and alanine aminotransferase (AST), regulated oxidative stress, and increased the formation of autophagosome and translocation of LC3 in the nucleus and expression of autophagy regulatory genes Beclin-1, ATG5, LC3Ⅱ, ATG7 and ATG12 in hepatocytes subjected to MTX damage.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that MOIG could ameliorate MTX-induced liver injury in the treatment of RA through increasing hepatocyte autophagy and improving lipid metabolism homeostasis.

A co-ordinated transcriptional programme in the maternal liver supplies long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids to the conceptus using phospholipids

The long and very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) are preferentially transported by the mother to the fetus. Failure to supply LC-PUFAs is strongly linked with stillbirth, fetal growth restriction, and impaired neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, dietary supplementation during pregnancy is unable to simply reverse these outcomes, suggesting imperfectly understood interactions between dietary fatty acid intake and the molecular mechanisms of maternal supply. Here we employ a comprehensive approach combining untargeted and targeted lipidomics with transcriptional profiling of maternal and fetal tissues in mouse pregnancy. Comparison of wild-type mice with genetic models of impaired lipid metabolism allows us to describe maternal hepatic adaptations required to provide LC-PUFAs to the developing fetus. A late pregnancy-specific, selective activation of the Liver X Receptor signalling pathway dramatically increases maternal supply of LC-PUFAs within circulating phospholipids. Crucially, genetic ablation of this pathway in the mother reduces LC-PUFA accumulation by the fetus, specifically of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a critical nutrient for brain development.

Directing novel ChoKα1 inhibitors using MamC-mediated biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles: a way to improve specificity and efficiency

Targeting phospholipid biosynthesis, specifically phosphatidylcholine (PC), which is enhanced in tumor cells, has been proven a suitable antitumor strategy. In fact, the overexpression of the choline kinase α1 (ChoKα1) isoform has been found in malignant cells and tumors, thus becoming an excellent antitumor target. ChoKα1 inhibitors are being synthesized at the present that show a large inhibitory activity. Two of them have been chosen in this study as representatives of different structural families: a biscationic biphenyl derivative of thieno[3,2-d]pyrimidinium substituted with a cyclic amine (here referred to as Fa22) and a biscationic biphenyl thioethano derivative of 7-chloro-quinolinium substituted with a pyrrolidinic moiety (here referred to as PL48). However, the potential use of these types of compounds in systemic treatments is hampered because of their low specificity. In fact, to enter the cell and reach their target, these inhibitors use choline transporters and inhibit choline uptake, being that one of the causes of their toxicity. One way to solve this problem could be allowing their entrance into the cells by alternative ways. With this goal, MamC-mediated magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs), already proven effective drug nanocarriers, have been used to immobilize Fa22 and PL48. The idea is to let BMNPs enter the cell (they enter the cell by endocytosis) carrying these molecules, and, therefore, offering another way in for these compounds. In the present study, we demonstrate that the coupling of Fa22 and PL48 to BMNPs allows these molecules to enter the tumoral cell without completely inhibiting choline uptake, so, therefore, the use of Fa22 and PL48 in these nanoformulations reduces the toxicity compared to that of the soluble drugs. Moreover, the nanoassemblies Fa22-BMNPs and PL48-BMNPs allow the combination of chemotherapy and local hyperthermia therapies for a enhanced cytotoxic effect on the tumoral HepG2 cell line. The consistency of the results, independently of the drug structure, may indicate that this behavior could be extended to other ChoKα1 inhibitors, opening up a possibility for their potential use in clinics.

Association between PEMT rs7946 and blood pressure levels in Chinese adolescents

OBJECTIVES

This study was to explore blood pressure levels in Chinese adolescents with different genotypes of phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) gene ( PEMT ) rs7946, as well as effects of dietary intake on blood pressure levels with different genders and different genotypes of PEMT rs7946.

METHODS

PEMT rs7946 genotypes were identified by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and verified by DNA sequencing. Blood pressure was measured using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. Dietary intakes were analyzed based on a 3-day diet diary, and dietary components were calculated using computer software.

RESULTS

A total of 721 high school students (314 males and 407 females) at the age of 16.86 ± 0.59 years were included. The A allele carriers of PEMT rs7946 had increased levels of SBP, DBP, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse pressure (PP) than the GG homozygotes in the female subjects. There were significant interactions between PEMT rs7946 and gender on SBP and MAP levels, regardless of whether an unadjusted or adjusted model was used. When dietary intake was taken into account, fat intake was positively associated with SBP and PP in the male GG homozygotes, while protein intake was positively associated with PP in the female A allele carriers of PEMT rs7946.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that PEMT rs7946 is significantly associated with blood pressure levels in human being. There might be interactions among PEMT rs7946, gender, and dietary intake on blood pressure levels in the adolescent population.

Phospholipid isotope tracing suggests β-catenin-driven suppression of phosphatidylcholine metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma

Activating mutations in the CTNNB1 gene encoding β-catenin are among the most frequently observed oncogenic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Profound alterations in lipid metabolism, including increases in fatty acid oxidation and transformation of the phospholipidome, occur in HCC with CTNNB1 mutations, but it is unclear what mechanisms give rise to these changes. We employed untargeted lipidomics and targeted isotope tracing to measure phospholipid synthesis activity in an inducible human liver cell line expressing mutant β-catenin, as well as in transgenic zebrafish with activated β-catenin-driven HCC. In both models, activated β-catenin expression was associated with large changes in the lipidome including conserved increases in acylcarnitines and ceramides and decreases in triglycerides. Lipid isotope tracing analysis in human cells revealed a reduction in phosphatidylcholine (PC) production rates as assayed by choline incorporation. We developed lipid isotope tracing analysis for zebrafish tumors and observed reductions in phosphatidylcholine synthesis by both the CDP-choline and PEMT pathways. The observed changes in the β-catenin-driven HCC phospholipidome suggest that zebrafish can recapitulate conserved features of HCC lipid metabolism and may serve as a model for identifying future HCC-specific lipid metabolic targets.

Fagopyrum Dibotrys Rhizoma regulates pulmonary lipid metabolic homeostasis and the ERK-cPLA2 pathway to alleviate asthma in mice

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a complex disease with mechanisms involving multiple factors, and there is still a lack of highly effective and low-side-effect drugs. Traditional Chinese medicine Fagopyrum Dibotrys Rhizoma (FDR) has been applied for the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis as well as bronchial asthma due to its favorable pharmacological activity. However, the exact mechanism of FDR remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

A mouse model of asthma was created using OVA and HDM. To investigate the mechanism of FDR in asthma treatment, a combination of network pharmacology, lipidomics, and molecular biology approaches was employed.

METHODS

To evaluate the therapeutic effects of FDR on asthma, we established two distinct models of asthma in C57BL/6 J mice using OVA and HDM, respectively. We then employed LC-MS to analyze the major chemical constituents in FDR. Next, the network pharmacology approach was used to predict the potential targets and mechanisms of FDR in asthma treatment. Additionally, lipidomics analysis of mouse serum was conducted using LC-MS. Finally, the impact of FDR on the ERK -cPLA2 signaling pathway was investigated through Western Blotting assay.

RESULTS

FDR treatment has been shown to improve histomorphological changes, lung function and inflammation in models of OVA and HDM-induced asthma. Using UPLC/LTQ-Orbitrap-MS, we were able to identify 12 potential active components. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that FDR shares 75 targets with asthma. Further analysis using GO and KEGG pathways demonstrated the involvement of key pathways such as PI3K-Akt, TNF, and MAPK. Additionally, lipidomics analysis of the serum from OVA and HDM induced asthma mice showed disturbances in lipid metabolism, which were effectively ameliorated by FDR treatment. Mechanistically, FDR inhibits ERK1/2-cPLA2, leading to a reduction in lysophospholipids and restoration of lipid balance, thereby aiding in the treatment of asthma.

CONCLUSION

FDR has been shown to improve lipid metabolism disorder in the serum of asthmatic mice, thereby potentially serving as a treatment for asthma. This can be achieved by regulating the activation levels of ERK1/2 and p38MAPK. Consequently, the production of lysophosphatide is reduced, thereby alleviating the disorder of lipid metabolism and achieving the desired therapeutic effect in asthma treatment.

Mild autonomous cortisol secretion: pathophysiology, comorbidities and management approaches

The majority of incidentally discovered adrenal tumours are benign adrenocortical adenomas and the prevalence of adrenocortical adenomas is around 1-7% on cross-sectional abdominal imaging. These can be non-functioning adrenal tumours or they can be associated with autonomous cortisol secretion on a spectrum that ranges from rare clinically overt adrenal Cushing syndrome to the much more prevalent mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) without signs of Cushing syndrome. MACS is diagnosed (based on an abnormal overnight dexamethasone suppression test) in 20-50% of patients with adrenal adenomas. MACS is associated with cardiovascular morbidity, frailty, fragility fractures, decreased quality of life and increased mortality. Management of MACS should be individualized based on patient characteristics and includes adrenalectomy or conservative follow-up with treatment of associated comorbidities. Identifying patients with MACS who are most likely to benefit from adrenalectomy is challenging, as adrenalectomy results in improvement of cardiovascular morbidity in some, but not all, patients with MACS. Of note, diagnosis and management of patients with bilateral MACS is especially challenging. Current gaps in MACS clinical practice include a lack of specific biomarkers diagnostic of MACS-related health outcomes and a paucity of clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of adrenalectomy on comorbidities associated with MACS. In addition, little evidence exists to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of long-term medical therapy in patients with MACS.

The Non-Targeted Lipidomic-Based Classifier Reveals Two Candidate Biomarkers for Ischemic Stroke in Hypertensive Individuals

Introduction

Traditional clinical risk factors are insufficient to estimate the residual risk of large-vessel ischemic stroke. Non-targeted lipidomic techniques provide an opportunity to evaluate these risks.

Methods

Plasma samples were collected from 113 hypertensive individuals, including 55 individuals at high risk of ischemic stroke and 58 matched individuals, in a prospective nested case-control cohort. To identify dysregulated lipid metabolites, we conducted multivariate and univariate analyses. A classifier based on a cross-validated procedure was employed to select the optimal combination of lipid species and their ratios.

Results

We identified 23 dysregulated lipid species in patients with and without ischemic stroke, including 16 (69.6%) up-regulated and 7 (30.4%) down-regulated lipid species. Through internal cross-validation, the optimal combination of two lipid features (phosphatidylcholine 34:2 and triglyceride 18:1/18:1/22:1 / phosphatidylcholine 34:2, referred to as ischemic stroke-related 2 lipid features - IS2LP) was selected, leading to a more precise prediction probability for ischemic stroke within 3.9 years. In the comparison of different risk factors, the traditional risk score, the IS2LP risk score, and the combination of the traditional risk score with IS2LP yield AUC values of 0.613(95% CI:0.509-0.717), 0.833(95% CI:0.755-0.911), and 0.843(95% CI:0.777-0.916), respectively. The combination of the traditional risk score and IS2LP exhibited significantly improved discriminative performance, with an integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) of 0.31 (p<0.001) and a continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI) of 1.06 (p < 0.001) compared to the traditional risk score.

Conclusion

We identified new lipidomic biomarkers associated with the futural event of large-vessel ischemic stroke. These lipid species could serve as potential blood biomarkers for assessing the residual risk of ischemic stroke in hypertensive individuals.

Serum Phosphatidylcholine Species 32:0 as a Biomarker for Liver Cirrhosis Pre- and Post-Hepatitis C Virus Clearance

Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is an essential lipid for liver health and lipoprotein metabolism, but its circulating levels have rarely been studied in patients with cirrhosis. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes lipid abnormalities and is a major cause of cirrhosis. Effective HCV elimination with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is associated with the normalization of serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Since PC is abundant in all lipoprotein particles, this study analyzed the association between serum PC species levels and liver cirrhosis before and after HCV eradication. Therefore, 27 PC species were measured by Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry in the serum of 178 patients with chronic HCV infection at baseline and in 176 of these patients at the end of therapy. The PC species did not correlate with viral load, and the levels of 13 PC species were reduced in patients infected with genotype 3a compared to those affected with genotype 1. Four PC species were slightly elevated 12 weeks after DAA initiation, and genotype-related changes were largely normalized. Patients with HCV and cirrhosis had higher serum levels of PC 30:0 and 32:0 before and at the end of therapy. PC species containing polyunsaturated fatty acids were mostly decreased in cirrhosis. The levels of polyunsaturated, but not saturated, PC species were inversely correlated with the model of the end-stage liver disease score. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed area under the curve values of 0.814 and 0.826 for PC 32:0 and 0.917 and 0.914 for % PC 32:0 (relative to the total PC levels) for the classification of cirrhosis at baseline and at the end of therapy, respectively. In conclusion, the specific upregulation of PC 32:0 in cirrhosis before and after therapy may be of diagnostic value in HCV-related cirrhosis.

Dietary liposomal complexes change the fatty acid composition of hepatic bioactive phospholipids in F1(C57blxDBA2\6) mice, as shown by a lipidomic approach

Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) of the n-3 and n-6 classes are crucial for maintaining many physiological functions of the human body. It has previously been suggested that the beneficial effects of n-3 PUFAs are mediated by the action of bioactive lipid components, although it remains unclear which specific lipids are metabolically active. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of various liposomal diets on the content and ratio of liver phospholipids, containing n-3 and n-6 PUFAs, in F1 (C57blxDBA2\6) mice. Lipidomic analysis using chromatography-mass spectrometry was employed to investigate changes in the fatty acid profile of liver phospholipids in six groups of mice. These mice were fed liposomal complexes of different compositions in drinks replacing water for a long-term diet (3 months). Two additional groups of mice, aged 2 and 5 months, were used as control groups. The six liposomal complexes included different combinations of phosphatidylcholine (PC), a natural antioxidant (clove bud essential oil (CEO)), fish oil (FO), and sodium caseinate (SC). The consumption of the PC-CEO-FO-SC liposomal complex significantly increased the amount of liver phospholipids containing n-3 docosahexaenoic acid, including phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), phosphatidylserines (PS), and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). This increase was accompanied by a marked decrease in the amount of phospholipids containing n-6 arachidonic acid. As a result, the weight ratio of phospholipids containing n-6 PUFAs to those containing n-3 PUFAs decreased significantly, especially for PC and PE subclasses. Therefore, the PC-CEO-FO-SC liposomal complex has the potential to enhance resistance to inflammation and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.

A pre-vaccination immune metabolic interplay determines the protective antibody response to a dengue virus vaccine

Protective immunity to dengue virus (DENV) requires antibody response to all four serotypes. Systems vaccinology identifies a multi-OMICs pre-vaccination signature and mechanisms predictive of broad antibody responses after immunization with a tetravalent live attenuated DENV vaccine candidate (Butantan-DV/TV003). Anti-inflammatory pathways, including TGF-β signaling expressed by CD68low monocytes, and the metabolites phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) positively correlate with broadly neutralizing antibody responses against DENV. In contrast, expression of pro-inflammatory pathways and cytokines (IFN and IL-1) in CD68hi monocytes and primary and secondary bile acids negatively correlates with broad DENV-specific antibody responses. Induction of TGF-β and IFNs is done respectively by PC/PE and bile acids in CD68low and CD68hi monocytes. The inhibition of viral sensing by PC/PE-induced TGF-β is confirmed in vitro. Our studies show that the balance between metabolites and the pro- or anti-inflammatory state of innate immune cells drives broad and protective B cell response to a live attenuated dengue vaccine.

Dysfunctional VLDL metabolism in MASLD

Lipidomics has unveiled the intricate human lipidome, emphasizing the extensive diversity within lipid classes in mammalian tissues critical for cellular functions. This diversity poses a challenge in maintaining a delicate balance between adaptability to recurring physiological changes and overall stability. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), linked to factors such as obesity and diabetes, stems from a compromise in the structural and functional stability of the liver within the complexities of lipid metabolism. This compromise inaccurately senses an increase in energy status, such as during fasting-feeding cycles or an upsurge in lipogenesis. Serum lipidomic studies have delineated three distinct metabolic phenotypes, or "metabotypes" in MASLD. MASLD-A is characterized by lower very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion and triglyceride (TG) levels, associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In contrast, MASLD-C exhibits increased VLDL secretion and TG levels, correlating with elevated CVD risk. An intermediate subtype, with a blend of features, is designated as the MASLD-B metabotype. In this perspective, we examine into recent findings that show the multifaceted regulation of VLDL secretion by S-adenosylmethionine, the primary cellular methyl donor. Furthermore, we explore the differential CVD and hepatic cancer risk across MASLD metabotypes and discuss the context and potential paths forward to gear the findings from genetic studies towards a better understanding of the observed heterogeneity in MASLD.

Dietary supplementation with Macleaya cordata extract alleviates intestinal injury in broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide by regulating gut microbiota and plasma metabolites

Introduction

The prevention and mitigation of intestinal immune challenge is crucial for poultry production. This study investigated the effects of dietary Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) supplementation on the prevention of intestinal injury in broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods

A total of 256 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups using a 2×2 factorial design with 2 MCE supplemental levels (0 and 400 mg/kg) and 2 LPS challenge levels (0 and 1 mg/kg body weight). The experiment lasted for 21 d.

Results and discussion

The results showed that MCE supplementation increased the average daily feed intake during days 0-14. MCE supplementation and LPS challenge have an interaction on the average daily gain during days 15-21. MCE supplementation significantly alleviated the decreased average daily gain of broiler chickens induced by LPS. MCE supplementation increased the total antioxidant capacity and the activity of catalase and reduced the level of malondialdehyde in jejunal mucosa. MCE addition elevated the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of the ileum. MCE supplementation decreased the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in the jejunum. MCE addition mitigated LPS-induced mRNA up-expression of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-17 in the jejunum. MCE supplementation increased the abundance of probiotic bacteria (such as Lactobacillus and Blautia) and reduced the abundance of pathogenic bacteria (such as Actinobacteriota, Peptostretococcaceae, and Rhodococcus), leading to alterations in gut microbiota composition. MCE addition altered several metabolic pathways such as Amino acid metabolism, Nucleotide metabolism, Energy metabolism, Carbohydrate metabolism, and Lipid metabolism in broilers. In these pathways, MCE supplementation increased the levels of L-aspartic acid, L-Glutamate, L-serine, etc., and reduced the levels of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, thromboxane B2, 13-(S)-HODPE, etc. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 400 mg/kg MCE effectively improved the growth performance and intestinal function in LPS-challenged broiler chickens, probably due to the modulation of gut microbiota and plasma metabolites.

Postprandial Plasma and Whole Blood Amino Acids Are Largely Indicative of Dietary Amino Acids in Adult Dogs Consuming Diets with Increasing Whole Pulse Ingredient Inclusion

BACKGROUND

Pulse ingredients often replace grains in grain-free dog diets owing to their high-protein content. However, research to ascertain the benefit of this modification is limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to correlate food compounds in 1 corn-inclusive control diet and 3 grain-free diets with increasing inclusions of whole pulses (≤45%; Pulse15, Pulse30, and Pulse45), formulated to meet similar macronutrient and micronutrient targets with postprandial amino acids (AAs) in healthy dogs >20 wk.

METHODS

Diets were analyzed for biochemical compounds using tandem mass spectrometry. Twenty-eight outdoor-housed, healthy, adult Siberian Huskies were allocated to diet, and meal responses were analyzed at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 8, 16, and 20 with samples collected at fasted and 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after meal presentation. Blood AAs were analyzed by ultra performance liquid chromatography and differences across week, treatment, and time postmeal were analyzed in SAS Studio. Partial least squares regression was performed in SAS Studio using biochemical compounds in the diet as predictor variables and blood AAs as response variables.

RESULTS

In plasma, Pulse45 had ∼32% greater postprandial Asn than Pulse15, and the control diet had ∼34% greater postprandial Leu and ∼35% greater Pro than Pulse15 (P < 0.05). In whole blood, Pulse30 had ∼23% greater postprandial Lys than the control diet, and the control diet had ∼21% greater postprandial Met and ∼18% greater Pro than Pulse45 and Pulse30, respectively (P < 0.05). Several phospholipids were correlated with postprandial AAs. Compounds in the urea cycle and glycine and serine metabolism were more enriched (P < 0.05) in plasma and whole blood, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In macronutrient-balanced and micronutrient-balanced canine diets that differ in their inclusion of corn-derived compared with pulse-derived ingredients, postprandial changes in circulating AAs are largely indicative of the dietary AAs. This helps further our understanding of AA metabolism in healthy dogs fed grain-free diets.

Fragment-based approach to study fungicide-biomimetic membrane interactions

In this study, the molecular interactions of the allylamine-type fungicide butenafine and a set of substructures ("fragments") with liposomes mimicking biological membranes were studied to gain a better understanding of the structural factors governing membrane affinity and perturbation. Specifically, drug/fragment-membrane interactions were investigated using an interdisciplinary approach involving micro differential scanning calorimetry, open-tubular capillary electrochromatography, nanoplasmonic sensing, and quartz crystal microbalance. By incubating the drug and the fragment compounds with liposomes with varying lipid composition or by externally adding the compounds to preformed liposomes, a detailed mechanistic picture on the underlying drug/fragment-membrane interactions was obtained. The nature and the degree of ionisation of polar head groups of the lipids had a major influence on the nature of drug-membrane interactions, and so had the presence and relative concentration of cholesterol within the membranes. The in-depth understanding of drug/fragment-membranes interactions established by the presented interdisciplinary fragment-based approach may be useful in guiding the design and early-stage evaluation of prospective antifungal drug candidates, and the discovery of agents with improved membrane penetrating characteristics in general.

Influences of Stocking Density on Antioxidant Status, Nutrients Composition, and Lipid Metabolism in the Muscles of Cyprinus carpio under Rice-Fish Co-Culture

Cyprinus carpio is a significant freshwater species with substantial nutritional and economic value. Rice-carp co-culture represents one of its principal cultivation methods. However, in the system, the optimal farming density for carp and the impact of high stocking density on their muscle nutritional composition have yet to be explored. Thus, the objective of the current study was to investigate the influences of stocking density on the muscle nutrient profiles and metabolism of C. carpio in rice-fish co-culture systems. Common carp were cultured at three stocking densities, low density (LD), medium density (MD), and high density (HD), over a period of 60 days. Following this, comprehensive analyses incorporating physiological, biochemical, and multi-omics sequencing were conducted on the muscle tissue of C. carpio. The results demonstrated that HD treatment led to a reduction in the antioxidant capacity of C. carpio, while resulting in elevated levels of various fatty acids in muscle tissue, including saturated fatty acids (SFAs), omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-6 PUFAs). The metabolome analysis showed that HD treatment caused a marked reduction in 43 metabolites and a significant elevation in 30 metabolites, primarily linked to lipid and amino acid metabolism. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis revealed that the abnormalities in lipid metabolism induced by high-stocking-density treatment may be associated with significant alterations in the PPAR signaling pathway and adipokine signaling pathway. Overall, our findings indicate that in rice-fish co-culture systems, high stocking density disrupted the balance of antioxidant status and lipid metabolism in the muscles of C. carpio.

Lecithin and cardiovascular health: a comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the prime causes of mortality globally. Therefore, concerted efforts are made to prevent or manage disruptions from normal functioning of the cardiovascular system. Disruption in lipid metabolism is a major contributor to cardiovascular dysfunction. This review examines how lecithin impacts lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. It emphasizes lecithin's ability to reduce excess low-density lipoproteins (LDL) while specifically promoting the synthesis of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles, thus contributing to clearer understanding of its role in cardiovascular well-being. Emphasizing the importance of lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in the reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) process, the article delves into its contribution in removing surplus cholesterol from cells. This review aims to clarify existing literature on lipid metabolism, providing insights for targeted strategies in the prevention and management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This review summarizes the potential of lecithin in cardiovascular health and the role of LCAT in cholesterol metabolism modulation, based on articles from 2000 to 2023 sourced from databases like MEDLINE, PubMed and the Scientific Electronic Library Online.

MAIN BODY

While studies suggest a positive correlation between increased LCAT activities, reduced LDL particle size and elevated serum levels of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) markers in individuals at risk of ASCVD, the review acknowledges existing controversies. The precise nature of LCAT's potential adverse effects remains uncertain, with varying reports in the literature. Notably, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and nausea have been sporadically documented.

CONCLUSIONS

The review calls for a comprehensive investigation into the complexities of LCAT's impact on cardiovascular health, recognizing the need for a nuanced understanding of its potential drawbacks. Despite indications of potential benefits, conflicting findings warrant further research to clarify LCAT's role in atherosclerosis.

Zinc-associated phospholipid metabolic alterations and their impacts on ALT levels in workers

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that is required for various biological functions, but excessive exposure to Zn is associated with many disorders and even diseases. However, the health effects and underlying mechanisms of long-term and high concentration exposure of Zn remain to be unclear. In the present study, we investigated the association between occupational exposure to Zn and liver function indicators (like alanine aminotransferase (ALT)) in workers. We found a positive association between Zn exposure and ALT level in workers. Workers having higher blood Zn (7735.65 (1159.15) μg/L) shows a 30.4 % increase in ALT level compared to those with lower blood Zn (5969.30 (989.26) μg/L). Furthermore, we explored the effects of phospholipids (PLs) and their metabolism on ALT level and discovered that Zn exposure in workers was associated with changes in PL levels and metabolism, which had further effects on increased ALT levels in workers. The study provides insights into the relationship between occupational Zn exposure and liver function, highlights the risk of long-term exposure to high concentrations of Zn, and paves the way for understanding the underlying mechanisms of Zn exposure on human health.

Lipidomics Study of Type 1 Diabetic Rats Using Online Phase Transition Trapping-Supercritical Fluid Extraction-Chromatography Coupled with Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Chromatography-mass spectrometry-based lipidomics represents an essential tool for elucidating lipid dysfunction mechanisms and is extensively employed in investigating disease mechanisms and identifying biomarkers. However, the detection of low-abundance lipids in biological matrices, along with cumbersome operational procedures, complicates comprehensive lipidomic analyses, necessitating the development of highly sensitive, environmentally friendly, and automated methods. In this study, an online phase transition trapping-supercritical fluid extraction-chromatography-mass spectrometry (PTT-SFEC-MS/MS) method was developed and successfully applied to plasma lipidomics analysis in Type 1 diabetes (T1D) rats. The PTT strategy captured entire extracts at the column head by converting CO2 from a supercritical state to a gaseous state, thereby preventing peak spreading, enhancing peak shape for precise quantification, and boosting sensitivity without any sample loss. This method utilized only 5 μL of plasma and accomplished sample extraction, separation, and detection within 27 min. Ultimately, 77 differential lipids were identified, including glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and glycerolipids, in T1D rat plasma. The results indicated that the progression of the disease might be linked to alterations in glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism. Our findings demonstrated a green, highly efficient, and automated method for the lipidomics analysis of biological samples, providing a scientific foundation for understanding the pathogenesis and diagnosis of T1D.

Empagliflozin alters lipid metabolism in the myocardium and liver in a prediabetes model with severe dyslipidemia

Background and aims

Recent studies suggest that empagliflozin reduces total and cardiovascular mortality in both diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. Although the exact mechanism is unclear, it is understood to positively affect myocardial energetics, including the metabolism of ketone bodies, lipids, and fatty acids. In this study, we compared empagliflozin effects on lipid metabolism in the heart and liver in a prediabetic rat model with severe dyslipidemia.

Materials and methods

Wistar rats served as the control group, while hereditary hypertriglyceridemic (HHTg) rats were used as a nonobese, prediabetic model. Rats were treated with or without empagliflozin at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight (BW) for 8 weeks.

Results

In HHTg rats, empagliflozin decreased body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, and decreased serum triacylglycerols (TAGs) (p < 0.001). Empagliflozin decreased the activity and gene expression of the lipogenic enzyme SCD-1 (p < 0.001) in the myocardium, which may have led to a decrease in the ectopic accumulation of TAGs and lipotoxic diacylglycerols and lysophosphatidylcholines (p < 0.001). Changes in the myocardial phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylethanolamine ratio (p < 0.01) and in the fatty acid profile of myocardial phospholipids may have contributed to the antifibrotic effects of empagliflozin. The anti-inflammatory effects of empagliflozin were evidenced by an increased IL-10/TNFα ratio (p < 0.001), a marked decrease in arachidonic acid metabolites (20-HETE, p < 0.001), and an increase in PUFA metabolites (14,15-EETs, p < 0.001) in the myocardium. However, empagliflozin did not significantly affect either the concentration or utilization of ketone bodies. In the liver, empagliflozin decreased lipogenesis and the accumulation of TAGs and lipotoxic intermediates. Its effect on arachidonic acid metabolites and alterations in n-3 PUFA metabolism was less pronounced than in the myocardium.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that empagliflozin treatment in the heart and liver reduced the accumulation of neutral lipids and lipotoxic intermediates and altered the metabolism of n-3 PUFA. In the heart, empagliflozin altered arachidonic acid metabolism, which is likely associated with the anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects of the drug. We assume that these alterations in lipid metabolism contribute to the cardioprotective effects of empagliflozin in prediabetic states with severe dyslipidemia.

Double Cyclization Tandem Mass for Identification and Quantification of Phosphatidylcholines Using Isobaric Six-Plex Capillary nLC-MS/MS

Multiplexing of phosphatidylcholine analysis is hindered by a lack of appropriate derivatization. Presented here is a tagging scheme that uses a quaternary amine tag and targets the hydroxy group of the phosphate, which switches the net charge from neutral to +2. Quantitative yields were achieved from >99% reaction completion derived by dimethoxymethyl morpholinium (DMTMM) activation. Fragmentation of phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) releases two trimethylamines and the acyl chains through neutral loss and generates a unique double cyclization constant mass reporter. Selective incorporation of isotopes onto the tag produces a six-plex set of isobaric reagents. For equivalent six-plex-labeled samples, <14% RSD was achieved, followed by a dynamic range of 1:10 without signal compression. Quantification of PCs/LPCs in human hepatic cancer cells was conducted as six-plex using data-dependent analysis tandem MS. We report a six-plex qualitative and quantitative isobaric tagging strategy expanding the limits of analyzing PCs/LPCs.

Disruption of the peripheral biological clock may play a role in sleep deprivation-induced dysregulation of lipid metabolism in both the daytime and nighttime phases

STUDY OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the effect of sleep deprivation (SD) on lipid metabolism or lipid metabolism regulation in the liver and white adipose tissue (WAT) during the light and dark phases and explored the possible mechanisms underlying the diurnal effect of SD on lipid metabolism associated with clock genes.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6J mice aged 2 months were deprived of sleep daily for 20 h for ten consecutive days with weakly forced locomotion. The body weights and food consumption levels of the SD and control mice were recorded, and the mice were then sacrificed at ZT (zeitgeber time) 2 and ZT 14. The peripheral clock genes, enzymes involved in fat synthesis and catabolism in the WAT, and melatonin signalling pathway-mediated lipid metabolism in the liver were assessed. Untargeted metabolomics and tandem mass tag (TMT) proteomics were used to identify differential lipid metabolism pathways in the liver.

RESULTS

Bodyweight gain and daily food consumption were dramatically elevated after SD. Profound disruptions in the diurnal regulation of the hepatic peripheral clock and enzymes involved in fat synthesis and catabolism in the WAT were observed, with a strong emphasis on hepatic lipid metabolic pathways, while melatonin signalling pathway-mediated lipid metabolism exhibited moderate changes.

CONCLUSIONS

In mice, ten consecutive days of SD increased body weight gain and daily food consumption. In addition, SD profoundly disrupted lipid metabolism in the WAT and liver during the light and dark periods. These diurnal changes may be related to disorders of the peripheral biological clock.

Plasma metabolomic and lipidomic profiles accurately classify mothers of children with congenital heart disease: an observational study

INTRODUCTION

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital anomaly, representing a significant global disease burden. Limitations exist in our understanding of aetiology, diagnostic methodology and screening, with metabolomics offering promise in addressing these.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate maternal metabolomics and lipidomics in prediction and risk factor identification for childhood CHD.

METHODS

We performed an observational study in mothers of children with CHD following pregnancy, using untargeted plasma metabolomics and lipidomics by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). 190 cases (157 mothers of children with structural CHD (sCHD); 33 mothers of children with genetic CHD (gCHD)) from the children OMACp cohort and 162 controls from the ALSPAC cohort were analysed. CHD diagnoses were stratified by severity and clinical classifications. Univariate, exploratory and supervised chemometric methods were used to identify metabolites and lipids distinguishing cases and controls, alongside predictive modelling.

RESULTS

499 metabolites and lipids were annotated and used to build PLS-DA and SO-CovSel-LDA predictive models to accurately distinguish sCHD and control groups. The best performing model had an sCHD test set mean accuracy of 94.74% (sCHD test group sensitivity 93.33%; specificity 96.00%) utilising only 11 analytes. Similar test performances were seen for gCHD. Across best performing models, 37 analytes contributed to performance including amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, maternal metabolomic and lipidomic analysis has facilitated the development of sensitive risk prediction models classifying mothers of children with CHD. Metabolites and lipids identified offer promise for maternal risk factor profiling, and understanding of CHD pathogenesis in the future.

Plasma lipidomics analysis reveals altered profile of triglycerides and phospholipids in children with Medium-Chain Acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency

Medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD) is the most prevalent mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation disorder. In this study, we assessed the variability of the lipid profile in MCADD by analysing plasma samples obtained from 25 children with metabolically controlled MCADD (following a normal diet with frequent feeding and under l-carnitine supplementation) and 21 paediatric control subjects (CT). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was employed for the analysis of esterified fatty acids, while high-resolution C18-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to analyse lipid species. We identified a total of 251 lipid species belonging to 15 distinct lipid classes. Principal component analysis revealed a clear distinction between the MCADD and CT groups. Univariate analysis demonstrated that 126 lipid species exhibited significant differences between the two groups. The lipid species that displayed the most pronounced variations included triacylglycerols and phosphatidylcholines containing saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, specifically C14:0 and C16:0, which were found to be more abundant in MCADD. The observed changes in the plasma lipidome of children with non-decompensated MCADD suggest an underlying alteration in lipid metabolism. Therefore, longitudinal monitoring and further in-depth investigations are warranted to better understand whether such alterations are specific to MCADD children and their potential long-term impacts.

High throughput screening of mesenchymal stromal cell morphological response to inflammatory signals for bioreactor-based manufacturing of extracellular vesicles that modulate microglia

Due to their immunomodulatory function, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising therapeutic with the potential to treat neuroinflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. This function is mediated by secreted extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs). Despite established safety, MSC clinical translation has been unsuccessful due to inconsistent clinical outcomes resulting from functional heterogeneity. Current approaches to mitigate functional heterogeneity include 'priming' MSCs with inflammatory signals to enhance function. However, comprehensive evaluation of priming and its effects on MSC-EV function has not been performed. Furthermore, clinical translation of MSC-EV therapies requires significant manufacturing scale-up, yet few studies have investigated the effects of priming in bioreactors. As MSC morphology has been shown to predict their immunomodulatory function, we screened MSC morphological response to an array of priming signals and evaluated MSC-EV identity and potency in response to priming in flasks and bioreactors. We identified unique priming conditions corresponding to distinct morphologies. These conditions demonstrated a range of MSC-EV preparation quality and lipidome, allowing us to discover a novel MSC-EV manufacturing condition, as well as gain insight into potential mechanisms of MSC-EV microglia modulation. Our novel screening approach and application of priming to MSC-EV bioreactor manufacturing informs refinement of larger-scale manufacturing and enhancement of MSC-EV function.

Mapping the lipidome in mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) in an in vitro model of Alzheimer's disease

The disruption of mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAMs) plays a relevant role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). MAMs have been implicated in neuronal dysfunction and death since it is associated with impairment of functions regulated in this subcellular domain, including lipid synthesis and trafficking, mitochondria dysfunction, ER stress-induced unfolded protein response (UPR), apoptosis, and inflammation. Since MAMs play an important role in lipid metabolism, in this study we characterized and investigated the lipidome alterations at MAMs in comparison with other subcellular fractions, namely microsomes and mitochondria, using an in vitro model of AD, namely the mouse neuroblastoma cell line (N2A) over-expressing the APP familial Swedish mutation (APPswe) and the respective control (WT) cells. Phospholipids (PLs) and fatty acids (FAs) were isolated from the different subcellular fractions and analyzed by HILIC-LC-MS/MS and GC-MS, respectively. In this in vitro AD model, we observed a down-regulation in relative abundance of some phosphatidylcholine (PC), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) species with PUFA and few PC with saturated and long-chain FA. We also found an up-regulation of CL, and antioxidant alkyl acyl PL. Moreover, multivariate analysis indicated that each organelle has a specific lipid profile adaptation in N2A APPswe cells. In the FAs profile, we found an up-regulation of C16:0 in all subcellular fractions, a decrease of C18:0 levels in total fraction (TF) and microsomes fraction, and a down-regulation of 9-C18:1 was also found in mitochondria fraction in the AD model. Together, these results suggest that the over-expression of the familial APP Swedish mutation affects lipid homeostasis in MAMs and other subcellular fractions and supports the important role of lipids in AD physiopathology.

Meibomian Gland Shortening Is Associated With Altered Meibum Composition

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in the composition of meibum extracted from human meibomian glands displaying different morphological characteristics.

Methods

Adult participants with evidence of meibomian gland shortening were enrolled. Glands were observed using infrared meibography, and meibum was collected from one short and one long gland from the lower eyelid of the same eye. Total protein concentration was evaluated using the detergent compatible (DC) protein assay and lipid analysis was performed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry.

Results

Fifteen participants (8 women and 7 men) completed the study (mean age = 34.7 ± 7.7 years). The average volume of meibum collected from the short and long glands was 0.02 ± 0.01 and 0.05 ± 0.03 µL, respectively (P = 0.01). Average protein concentration in the short glands was significantly higher compared to the long glands (0.10 ± 0.03 vs. 0.08 ± 0.02 mg/mL, P = 0.01). Among the non-polar lipids, the mole percent of cholesterol esters (CEs; P = 0.02), triacylglycerols (TAGs; P = 0.04), and ceramide (Cer; P = 0.03) was significantly lower in short glands compared with long glands. Among the polar lipids, the mole percent of (O-acyl)-ω-hydroxy fatty acid (OAHFA; P = 0.01) was significantly lower in short glands, whereas phosphatidylcholine (PC; P = 0.02) and sphingomyelin (SM; P = 0.01) were significantly higher in short glands than long glands.

Conclusions

Meibum composition differed between short and long glands. The lower mole percent of CE, TAG, OAHFA, and Cer and a higher mole percent of PC and SM among short glands may indicate disease activity. This information may clarify the natural history of meibomian gland dysfunction and future targets for therapy.

FADS1/2 control lipid metabolism and ferroptosis susceptibility in triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has limited therapeutic options, is highly metastatic and characterized by early recurrence. Lipid metabolism is generally deregulated in TNBC and might reveal vulnerabilities to be targeted or used as biomarkers with clinical value. Ferroptosis is a type of cell death caused by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation which is facilitated by the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Here we identify fatty acid desaturases 1 and 2 (FADS1/2), which are responsible for PUFA biosynthesis, to be highly expressed in a subset of TNBC with a poorer prognosis. Lipidomic analysis, coupled with functional metabolic assays, showed that FADS1/2 high-expressing TNBC are susceptible to ferroptosis-inducing agents and that targeting FADS1/2 by both genetic interference and pharmacological approach renders those tumors ferroptosis-resistant while unbalancing PUFA/MUFA ratio by the supplementation of exogenous PUFA sensitizes resistant tumors to ferroptosis induction. Last, inhibiting lipid droplet (LD) formation and turnover suppresses the buffering capacity of LD and potentiates iron-dependent cell death. These findings have been validated in vitro and in vivo in mouse- and human-derived clinically relevant models and in a retrospective cohort of TNBC patients.

Compound Shouwu Jiangzhi Granule regulates triacylglyceride synthesis to alleviate hepatic lipid accumulation

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease with few therapeutic options currently available. Traditional Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years and exhibited remarkable advantages against such complicated disease for its "multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway" characteristics. Compound Shouwu Jiangzhi Granule (CSJG) is a clinical empirical prescription for the treatment of NAFLD, but its pharmacological mechanism remains unknown.

METHODS

The clinical efficacy of CSJG was retrospectively analyzed in NAFLD patients by comparing blood biomarkers levels and liver MR images before and after CSJG treatment. Then, high-fat/high-fructose (HFHF) diet-induced NAFLD mice were used to further confirm CSJG's effect against hepatic lipid accumulation through hepatic lipid determination and histopathological staining of liver samples. Next, the ingredients of CSJG were determined, and network pharmacology analysis was performed to predict potential targets of CSJG, followed by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blotting for verification. Then, lipidomics study was carried out to further explore the anti-NAFLD mechanism of CSJG from the perspective of triacylglyceride (TAG) synthesis but not free fatty acid (FFA) synthesis. The enzymes involved in this process were assayed by qPCR and western blotting. The potential interactions between the key enzymes of TAG synthesis and the active ingredients of CSJG were analyzed by molecular docking.

RESULTS

CSJG attenuated blood lipid levels and hepatic fat accumulation in both NAFLD patients and mice. Although network pharmacology analysis revealed the FFA synthesis pathway, CSJG only slightly affected it. Through lipidomics analysis, GSJG was found to significantly block the synthesis of diglycerides (DAGs) and TAGs in the liver, with decreased DGAT2 and increased PLD1 protein expression, which diverted DAGs from the synthesis of TAGs to the production of PEs, PCs and PAs and thus lowed TAGs level. Molecular docking suggested that rhein, luteolin and liquiritigenin from CSJG might be involved in this regulation.

CONCLUSION

Clinical and experimental evidence demonstrated that CSJG is a promising agent for the treatment of NAFLD. CSJG regulated TAGs synthesis to alleviate hepatic lipid accumulation. Rhein, luteolin and liquiritigenin from CSJG might play a role in it.

The causal relationship and potential mediators between plasma lipids and atopic dermatitis: a bidirectional two-sample, two-step mendelian randomization

BACKGROUND

Observational studies have indicated that the plasma lipid profiles of patients with atopic dermatitis show significant differences compared to healthy individuals. However, the causal relationship between these differences remains unclear due to the inherent limitations of observational studies. Our objective was to explore the causal effects between 179 plasma lipid species and atopic dermatitis, and to investigate whether circulating inflammatory proteins serve as mediators in this causal pathway.

METHODS

We utilized public genome-wide association studies data to perform a bidirectional two-sample, two-step mendelian randomization study. The inverse variance-weighted method was adopted as the primary analysis technique. MR-Egger and the weighted median were used as supplementary analysis methods. MR-PRESSO, Cochran's Q test, and MR-Egger intercept test were applied for sensitivity analyses to ensure the robustness of our findings.

RESULTS

The Mendelian randomization analysis revealed that levels of Phosphatidylcholine (PC) (18:1_20:4) (OR: 0.950, 95% CI: 0.929-0.972, p = 6.65 × 10- 6), Phosphatidylethanolamine (O-18:1_20:4) (OR: 0.938, 95% CI: 0.906-0.971, p = 2.79 × 10- 4), Triacylglycerol (TAG) (56:6) (OR: 0.937, 95% CI: 0.906-0.969, p = 1.48 × 10- 4) and TAG (56:8) (OR: 0.918, 95% CI: 0.876-0.961, p = 2.72 × 10- 4) were inversely correlated with the risk of atopic dermatitis. Conversely, PC (18:1_20:2) (OR: 1.053, 95% CI: 1.028-1.079, p = 2.11 × 10- 5) and PC (O-18:1_20:3) (OR: 1.086, 95% CI: 1.039-1.135, p = 2.47 × 10- 4) were positively correlated with the risk of atopic dermatitis. The results of the reverse directional Mendelian randomization analysis indicated that atopic dermatitis exerted no significant causal influence on 179 plasma lipid species. The level of circulating IL-18R1 was identified as a mediator for the increased risk of atopic dermatitis associated with higher levels of PC (18:1_20:2), accounting for a mediation proportion of 9.07%.

CONCLUSION

Our research suggests that plasma lipids can affect circulating inflammatory proteins and may serve as one of the pathogenic factors for atopic dermatitis. Targeting plasma lipid levels as a treatment for atopic dermatitis presents a potentially novel approach.

Community metabolic modeling of host-microbiota interactions through multi-objective optimization

The human gut microbiota comprises various microorganisms engaged in intricate interactions among themselves and with the host, affecting its health. While advancements in omics technologies have led to the inference of clear associations between microbiome composition and health conditions, we usually lack a causal and mechanistic understanding of these associations. For modeling mechanisms driving the interactions, we simulated the organism's metabolism using in silico genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs). We used multi-objective optimization to predict and explain metabolic interactions among gut microbes and an intestinal epithelial cell. We developed a score integrating model simulation results to predict the type (competition, neutralism, mutualism) and quantify the interaction between several organisms. This framework uncovered a potential cross-feeding for choline, explaining the predicted mutualism between Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and the epithelial cell. Finally, we analyzed a five-organism ecosystem, revealing that a minimal microbiota can favor the epithelial cell's maintenance.

Integrative Analyses of Circulating Proteins and Metabolites Reveal Sex Differences in the Associations with Cardiac Function among DCM Patients

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left or biventricular dilatation. We evaluated sex-specific associations of circulating proteins and metabolites with structural and functional heart parameters in DCM. Plasma samples (297 men, 71 women) were analyzed for proteins using Olink assays (targeted analysis) or LC-MS/MS (untargeted analysis), and for metabolites using LC MS/MS (Biocrates AbsoluteIDQ p180 Kit). Associations of proteins (n = 571) or metabolites (n = 163) with LVEF, measured left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDDmeasured), and the dilation percentage of LVEDD from the norm (LVEDDacc. to HENRY) were examined in combined and sex-specific regression models. To disclose protein-metabolite relations, correlation analyses were performed. Associations between proteins, metabolites and LVEF were restricted to men, while associations with LVEDD were absent in both sexes. Significant metabolites were validated in a second independent DCM cohort (93 men). Integrative analyses demonstrated close relations between altered proteins and metabolites involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction with declining LVEF, with kynurenine as the most prominent finding. In DCM, the loss of cardiac function was reflected by circulating proteins and metabolites with sex-specific differences. Our integrative approach demonstrated that concurrently assessing specific proteins and metabolites might help us to gain insights into the alterations associated with DCM.

Integrated bioinformatics and multiomics reveal Liupao tea extract alleviating NAFLD via regulating hepatic lipid metabolism and gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses a significant global public health concern. Liupao tea (LPT) is a Chinese national geographical indication product renowned for its lipid-lowering properties. However, the precise mechanisms and active constituents contributing to the efficacy of LPT against NAFLD remain unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aims to comprehensively explore the therapeutic potential of Liupao tea extract (LPTE) in alleviating NAFLD through an integrated strategy.

METHODS

Initially, network pharmacology analysis was conducted based on LPTE chemical ingredient analysis, identifying core targets and key components. Potential active ingredients were validated through chemical standards based on LC-MS/MS. To confirm the pharmacological efficacy of LPTE in NAFLD, NAFLD mice models were employed. Alterations in hepatic lipid metabolism were comprehensively elucidated through integration of metabolomics, lipidomics, network pharmacology analysis, and real-time PCR analysis. To further explore the binding interactions between key components and core targets, molecular docking and microscale thermophoresis (MST) analysis were employed. Furthermore, to investigate LPTE administration effectiveness on gut microbiota in NAFLD mice, a comprehensive approach was employed. This included Metorigin analysis, 16S rRNA sequencing, molecular docking, and fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT).

RESULTS

Study identified naringenin, quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol as the potential active ingredients of LPTE. These compounds exhibited therapeutic potential for NAFLD by targeting key proteins such as PTGS2, CYP3A4, and ACHE, which are involved in the metabolic pathways of hepatic linoleic acid (LA) and glycerophospholipid (GP) metabolism. The therapeutic effectiveness of LPTE was observed to be comparable to that of simvastatin. Furthermore, LPTE exhibited notable efficacy in alleviating NAFLD by influencing alterations in gut microbiota composition (Proteobacteria phylum, Lactobacillus and Dubosiella genus) that perhaps impact LA and GP metabolic pathways.

CONCLUSION

LPTE could be effective in preventing high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism and gut microbiota. This study firstly integrated bioinformatics and multi-omics technologies to identify the potential active components and key microbiota associated with LPTE's effects, while also primally elucidating the action mechanisms of LPTE in alleviating NAFLD. The findings offer a conceptual basis for LPTE's potential transformation into an innovative pharmaceutical agent for NAFLD prevention.

Three-Dimensional Imaging of Bioinspired Lipidic Mesophases Using Multicolored Light-Emitting Carbon Nanodots

Recent progress in the design of carbon nanostructures exhibiting strong multiphoton-excited emission opens new pathways to explore the self-organization of lipids found in living organisms. Phospholipid-based lyotropic myelin figures (MFs) are promising materials as simplified models of biomembranes due to their structural resemblance to a multilamellar sheath insulating the axon. This study demonstrates the possibility of selective labeling of MFs by strongly emitting multicolor phloroglucinol-derived carbon nanodots (PG CNDs). Such dopants are efficiently excited by visible and near-infrared light; therefore, one- and two-photon fluorescence microscopies are incorporated to gain 3D insights into the MFs. Combining nondestructive fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy techniques along with polarized light microscopy gives details on the stability and morphology of lipidic mesophases. Our findings suggest that PG CNDs can be a viable and simple alternative to conventional fluorescent lipid stains to image biologically relevant phospholipid-based structures.

Usual Choline Intake of Australian Children 6-24 Months: Findings from the Australian Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (OzFITS 2021)

(1) Background: Despite the important role choline plays in child development, there are no data on dietary choline intake in early childhood in Australia. (2) Aim: In this cross-sectional study, we estimated the usual total choline intake and the proportion exceeding the Adequate Intake (AI) and determined the main dietary sources of choline in infants 6-12 months (n = 286) and toddlers 12-24 months (n = 475) of age. (3) Methods: A single 24-h food record with repeats collected during the 2021 Australian Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (OzFITS 2021) was used to estimate dietary choline intake. (4) Results: The mean choline intake was 142 ± 1.9 mg/day in infants and 181 ± 1.2 mg/day in toddlers. Only 35% of infants and 23% of toddlers exceeded the AI for choline based on Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) for Australia and New Zealand. Breastmilk was the leading source of choline, contributing 42% and 14% of total choline intake in infants and toddlers, respectively; however, egg consumers had the highest adjusted choline intakes and probability of exceeding the AI. (5) Conclusions: Findings suggest that choline intake may be suboptimal in Australian infants and toddlers. Further research to examine the impact of low choline intake on child development is warranted.

Ezetimibe, Niemann-Pick C1 like 1 inhibitor, modulates hepatic phospholipid metabolism to alleviate fat accumulation

Background

Ezetimibe, which lowers cholesterol by blocking the intestinal cholesterol transporter Niemann-Pick C1 like 1, is reported to reduce hepatic steatosis in humans and animals. Here, we demonstrate the changes in hepatic metabolites and lipids and explain the underlying mechanism of ezetimibe in hepatic steatosis.

Methods

We fed Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats a high-fat diet (60 kcal % fat) with or vehicle (control) or ezetimibe (10 mg kg-1) via stomach gavage for 12 weeks and performed comprehensive metabolomic and lipidomic profiling of liver tissue. We used rat liver tissues, HepG2 hepatoma cell lines, and siRNA to explore the underlying mechanism.

Results

In OLETF rats on a high-fat diet, ezetimibe showed improvements in metabolic parameters and reduction in hepatic fat accumulation. The comprehensive metabolomic and lipidomic profiling revealed significant changes in phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylcholines (PC), and alterations in the fatty acyl-chain composition in hepatic PCs. Further analyses involving gene expression and triglyceride assessments in rat liver tissues, HepG2 hepatoma cell lines, and siRNA experiments unveiled that ezetimibe's mechanism involves the upregulation of key phospholipid biosynthesis genes, CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase alpha and phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyl-transferase, and the phospholipid remodeling gene lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3.

Conclusion

This study demonstrate that ezetimibe improves metabolic parameters and reduces hepatic fat accumulation by influencing the composition and levels of phospholipids, specifically phosphatidylcholines, and by upregulating genes related to phospholipid biosynthesis and remodeling. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular pathways through which ezetimibe mitigates hepatic fat accumulation, emphasizing the role of phospholipid metabolism.

Several common methods of making vesicles (except an emulsion method) capture intended lipid ratios

Researchers choose different methods of making giant unilamellar vesicles in order to satisfy different constraints of their experimental designs. A challenge of using a variety of methods is that each may produce vesicles of different lipid compositions, even if all vesicles are made from a common stock mixture. Here, we use mass spectrometry to investigate ratios of lipids in vesicles made by five common methods: electroformation on indium tin oxide slides, electroformation on platinum wires, gentle hydration, emulsion transfer, and extrusion. We made vesicles from either 5-component or binary mixtures of lipids chosen to span a wide range of physical properties: di(18:1)PC, di(16:0)PC, di(18:1)PG, di(12:0)PE, and cholesterol. For a mixture of all five of these lipids, ITO electroformation, Pt electroformation, gentle hydration, and extrusion methods result in only minor shifts (≤ 5 mol%) in lipid ratios of vesicles relative to a common stock solution. In contrast, emulsion transfer results in ∼80% less cholesterol than expected from the stock solution, which is counterbalanced by a surprising overabundance of saturated PC-lipid relative to all other phospholipids. Experiments using binary mixtures of some of the lipids largely support results from the 5-component mixture. Exact values of lipid ratios variations likely depend on the details of each method, so a broader conclusion is that experiments that increment lipid ratios in small steps will be highly sensitive to the method of lipid formation and to sample-to-sample variations, which are low (roughly ±2 mol% in the 5-component mixture and either scale proportionally with increasing mole fraction or remain low). Experiments that increment lipid ratios in larger steps or that seek to explain general trends or new phenomena will be less sensitive to the method used.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Small changes to the amounts and types of lipids in membranes can drastically affect the membrane's behavior. Unfortunately, it is unknown whether (or to what extent) different methods of making vesicles alter the ratios of lipids in membranes, even when identical stock solutions are used. This presents challenges for researchers when comparing data with colleagues who use different methods. Here, we measure ratios of lipid types in vesicle membranes produced by five methods. We assess each method's reproducibility and compare resulting vesicle compositions across methods. In doing so, we provide a quantitative basis that the scientific community can use to estimate whether differences between their results can be simply attributed to differences between methods or to sample-to-sample variations.

Lipidomics analysis reveals new insights into crisp grass carp associated with meat texture

Feeding faba beans to grass carp could crisp its muscle texture to avoid softening, the relationship between texture formation throughout the crisping process and the critical lipids regulating the fish quality has not yet been clarified. Herein, an 60-day nutritional trial and untargeted lipidomic analysis was used to study the changes of lipids in crisp grass carp dorsal muscle. A total of 1036 lipids were remarkably different between ordinary and crisp grass carp. The concentrations of the LPC, LPE, PG, Cer, Hex2Cer, SM, MG and MGMG were positively correlated with hardness and springiness, and the CL, TG, PMe, WE, dMePE and AcCa were negative correlation. High content of lipids involved in storage in ordinary grass carp, such as glycerophospholipids, polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acid content. In contrast, high content of membrane components in crisp grass carp, such as monounsaturated fatty acid, sphingolipid and glycerolipids content, and the distribution of PUFA in lipid molecules was related to lipid biosynthesis. This study might provide some insights into improved knowledge of the association between meat texture and lipid molecules in fish fed with faba bean.

Serum metabolomics study reveals a distinct metabolic diagnostic model for renal calculi

Renal calculi (RC) represent a prevalent disease of the urinary system characterized by a high incidence rate. The traditional clinical diagnosis of RC emphasizes imaging and stone composition analysis. However, the significance of metabolic status in RC diagnosis and prevention remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate serum metabolites in RC patients to identify those associated with RC and to develop a metabolite-based diagnostic model. We employed nontargeted metabolomics utilizing ultra-performance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS) to compare serum metabolites between RC patients and healthy controls. Our findings demonstrated significant disparities in serum metabolites, particularly in fatty acids and glycerophospholipids, between the two groups. Notably, the glycerophospholipid (GP) metabolic pathway in RC patients was significantly disrupted. Logistic regression models using differentially abundant metabolites revealed that elevated levels of 2-butyl-4-methyl phenol and reduced levels of phosphatidylethanolamine (P-16:0/22:6(4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)) had the most substantial effect on RC risk. Overall, our study indicates that RC induces notable alterations in serum metabolites and that the diagnostic model based on these metabolites effectively distinguishes RC. This research offers promising insights and directions for further diagnostic and mechanistic studies on RC.

Quantification of AICAR and study of metabolic markers after administration

Objectives: AICAR (5-amino-4-imidazolecarboxyamide ribonucleoside) was reported as the first pharmacological AMPK (adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase) activator, and it has been confirmed to exhibit a significant endurance enhancement effect and prohibited for doping by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Due to the fact that the human body can produce such substances, in order to ensure fairness in sports competition, methods for rapid detection and multi-type identification of AICAR drugs taken orally should be established. Methods: to assess AICAR levels, a new rapid, sensitive, efficient, and selective method was reported for the quantitative detection of AICAR in urine using LC-MS/MS. The method was validated for quantitative purposes based on the elemental selectivity, intra- (1.0-15.6%) and inter-day precision (1.3-16.3%), accuracy (99.9-112.8%), matrix effects (88.9-103.6%), recovery (87.4-106.5%), and stability at four different concentrations. The calibration curve was linear over a wide concentration range of 10-10,000 ng mL-1 with a high coefficient of determination (R 2 > 0.998). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for the experiment were determined to be 1 and 10 ng mL-1, respectively. Simultaneously, metabolomics analysis was used to obtain the metabolic fingerprint of different populations and biomarkers to distinguish administration cases through partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: the method enables easy quantitation for LC-MS/MS analysis with the best recovery yield maintained, and the method was applied to 122 Asian biological samples with an average concentration of 1310.5 ± 1031.4 ng mL-1. Through drug metabolism research, 734 and 294 variables were extracted for data analysis respectively in the positive and negative ion modes, and more than 100 metabolites with significant up- and down-regulation were found after the test. Conclusions: this research developed a fast, precise, effective, and specific approach for the qualitative and quantitative identification of AICAR in urine. Meanwhile, administration metabolism studies found that there were significant changes in AICAR levels and other compounds, such as PC types PC(18:1/16:0), PC(16:0/18:0), and PC(16:0/16:0), PE types PE(18:0/20:4), and LPE-type 18:1, which could better distinguish samples before and after AICAR administration. The analysis provides a multi-perspective reference for WADA to determine a positive criterion.

α-Synuclein Overexpression and the Microbiome Shape the Gut and Brain Metabolome in Mice

Pathological forms of the protein α-synuclein contribute to a family of disorders termed synucleinopathies, which includes Parkinson's disease (PD). Most cases of PD are believed to arise from gene-environment interactions. Microbiome composition is altered in PD, and gut bacteria are causal to symptoms and pathology in animal models. To explore how the microbiome may impact PD-associated genetic risks, we quantitatively profiled nearly 630 metabolites from 26 biochemical classes in the gut, plasma, and brain of α-synuclein-overexpressing (ASO) mice with or without microbiota. We observe tissue-specific changes driven by genotype, microbiome, and their interaction. Many differentially expressed metabolites in ASO mice are also dysregulated in human PD patients, including amine oxides, bile acids and indoles. Notably, levels of the microbial metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) strongly correlate from the gut to the plasma to the brain, identifying a product of gene-environment interactions that may influence PD-like outcomes in mice. TMAO is elevated in the blood and cerebral spinal fluid of PD patients. These findings uncover broad metabolomic changes that are influenced by the intersection of host genetics and the microbiome in a mouse model of PD.

PCYT1A deficiency disturbs fatty acid metabolism and induces ferroptosis in the mouse retina

BACKGROUND

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a group of debilitating visual disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of photoreceptors, which ultimately lead to blindness. Among the causes of this condition, mutations in the PCYT1A gene, which encodes the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for phosphatidylcholine (PC) de novo synthesis via the Kennedy pathway, have been identified. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the association between PCYT1A mutations and IRDs remain unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we focused on elucidating the functions of PCYT1A in the retina.

RESULTS

We found that PCYT1A is highly expressed in Müller glial (MG) cells in the inner nuclear layer (INL) of the retina. Subsequently, we generated a retina-specific knockout mouse model in which the Pcyt1a gene was targeted (Pcyt1a-RKO or RKO mice) to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying IRDs caused by PCYT1A mutations. Our findings revealed that the deletion of Pcyt1a resulted in retinal degenerative phenotypes, including reduced scotopic electroretinogram (ERG) responses and progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells, accompanied by loss of cells in the INL. Furthermore, through proteomic and bioinformatic analyses, we identified dysregulated retinal fatty acid metabolism and activation of the ferroptosis signalling pathway in RKO mice. Importantly, we found that PCYT1A deficiency did not lead to an overall reduction in PC synthesis within the retina. Instead, this deficiency appeared to disrupt free fatty acid metabolism and ultimately trigger ferroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals a novel mechanism by which mutations in PCYT1A contribute to the development of IRDs, shedding light on the interplay between fatty acid metabolism and retinal degenerative diseases, and provides new insights into the treatment of IRDs.

Unveiling the Pharmacological Mechanisms of Davidiin's Anti-Diabetic Efficacy in Streptozotocin-Treated Rats: A Comprehensive Analysis of Serum Metabolome

Background

Polygonum capitatum Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don (P. capitatum), a traditional herb used in Miao medicine, is renowned for its heart-clearing properties. Davidiin, the primary bioactive component (approximately 1%), has been used to treat various conditions, including diabetes. Given its wide range of effects and the diverse biomolecular pathways involved in diabetes, there is a crucial need to study how davidiin interacts with these pathways to better understand its anti-diabetic properties.

Materials and Methods

Diabetic rats were induced using a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) administered intraperitoneally at 35 mg/kg. Out of these, 24 rats with blood glucose levels ≥ 11.1 mmol/L and fasting blood glucose levels ≥ 7.0 mmol/L were selected for three experimental groups. These groups were then treated with either metformin (gavage, 140 mg/kg) or davidiin (gavage, 90 mg/kg) for four weeks. After the treatment period, we measured body weight, blood glucose levels, and conducted untargeted metabolic profiling using UPLC-QTOF-MS.

Results

Davidiin has been shown to effectively treat diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels from 30.2 ± 2.6 mmol/L to 25.1 ± 2.4 mmol/L (P < 0.05). This effect appears stronger than that of metformin, which lowered glucose levels to 26.5 ± 2.6 mmol/L. The primary outcomes of serum metabolomics are significant changes in lipid and lipid-like molecular profiles. Firstly, davidiin may affect phosphatide metabolism by increasing levels of phosphatidylinositol and sphingosine-1-phosphate. Secondly, davidiin could influence cholesterol metabolism by reducing levels of glycocholic acid and glycochenodeoxycholic acid. Lastly, davidiin might impact steroid hormone metabolism by increasing hepoxilin B3 levels and decreasing prostaglandins.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that davidiin modulates various lipid-related metabolic pathways to exert its anti-diabetic effects. These findings offer the first detailed metabolic profile of davidiin's action mechanism, contributing valuable insights to the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the context of diabetes treatment.

Mass Spectrometry Reveals Molecular Effects of Citrulline Supplementation during Bone Fracture Healing in a Rat Model

Bone fracture healing is a complex process in which specific molecular knowledge is still lacking. The citrulline-arginine-nitric oxide metabolism is one of the involved pathways, and its enrichment via citrulline supplementation can enhance fracture healing. This study investigated the molecular effects of citrulline supplementation during the different fracture healing phases in a rat model. Microcomputed tomography (μCT) was applied for the analysis of the fracture callus formation. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) and liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were used for lipid and protein analyses, respectively. μCT analysis showed no significant differences in the fracture callus volume and volume fraction between the citrulline supplementation and control group. The observed lipid profiles for the citrulline supplementation and control group were distinct for the different fracture healing stages. The main contributing lipid classes were phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs). The changing effect of citrulline supplementation throughout fracture healing was indicated by changes in the differentially expressed proteins between the groups. Pathway analysis showed an enhancement of fracture healing in the citrulline supplementation group in comparison to the control group via improved angiogenesis and earlier formation of the soft and hard callus. This study showed the molecular effects on lipids, proteins, and pathways associated with citrulline supplementation during bone fracture healing, even though no effect was visible with μCT.

LC-MS/MS untargeted lipidomics uncovers placenta lipid signatures from intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Aims: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) stands as the predominant liver disorder affecting pregnant women, with a prevalence ranging from 0.2% to 15.6%. While ICP is known to heighten the chances of perinatal mortality and morbidity, its pathogenesis remains elusive, and therapeutic options are limited. The objective of this study was to explore the characteristic lipid signature in placentas collected from normal pregnancies and those with mild and severe intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. This research aims to clarify the pathogenesis and identify lipid biomarker for ICP through LC-MS/MS based lipidomic analysis. Methods and materials: Placenta samples were collected from 30 normal pregnancy women and 30 mild and severe ICP women respectively. Women with normal pregnancy and ICP were recruit from April 2021 to July 2022 in Chengdu, China. And LC-MS/MS based lipidomic analysis was used to explore the characteristic placental lipids in mild and severe ICP. Results: Fourty-four lipids were differentially expressed both in mild and severe ICP placenta. The pathway analysis revealed these lipids are mainly enriched in glycerophospholipid metabolism and autophagy pathway. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) identified the correlation network module of lipids highly related to ICP. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, we identified three and four combined metabolites that had an area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) ≥ 0.90. Conclusion: Our results systematically revealed the lipid signature in mild and severe ICP placenta. The results may provide new insight into the treatment and early prediction of ICP.

AnGong NiuHuang (AGNH) pill attenuated traumatic brain injury through regulating NF-κB/Nlrp3 axis and glycerophospholipid metabolism

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially neuroinflammation after TBI persists for a long time and causes significant neurodegenerative pathologies and neuropsychiatric problems.

PURPOSE

In this study, the neuroprotective effect of AnGong NiuHuang (AGNH) on TBI was investigated and the mechanism was revealed by integrating multiple omics.

METHODS

The rats with TBI were administrated with AGNH for 5 consecutive days and the effect was evaluated by using modified neurologic severity score (mNSS), brain edema, H&E staining, Nissl staining and TUNEL staining. The mechanism was revealed by using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and metabolomic analysis. The inflammatory factors, apoptosis-related proteins and identified vital targets were validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

Administration of AGNH decreased mNSS, brain edema, brain structure damage, but increased Nissl body density in the rats with TBI. Additionally, AGNH reduced IL-1β, IL-17A, TNF-α, MMP9, MCP-1, IL-6, Bax and TUNEL staining,but elevated Bcl2 level. Integrating transcriptomic analysis and metabolomic analysis identified vital targets and critical metabolic pathways. Importantly, AGNH treatment reduced the expression of TLR4, MYD88, NLRP3, BTK, IL-18 and Caspase 1 as well as glycerophospholipid metabolism-related protein AGPAT2 and PLA2G2D, and decreased the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 in the brain of TBI rats. Additionally, AGNH increased phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), but decreased 1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (LysoPC) in the metabolic pathway of glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, AGNH inhibited NF-κB/NLRP3 axis to suppress neuroinflammation, cell apoptosis and pyroptosis, and improved metabolic pathways of glycerophospholipid metabolism after TBI.

An altered plasma lipidome-phenome network characterizes heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

AIMS

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a multifactorial, multisystemic syndrome that involves alterations in lipid metabolism. This study aimed to test whether distinct plasma lipid profiles or lipid entities or both are associated with clinical and functional echocardiographic parameters in HFpEF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We examined the human plasma lipidome in HFpEF patients (n = 18) with left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) >125 pg/mL and control subjects (n = 12) using mass spectrometry-based shotgun lipidomics. The cohort included 8 women and 22 men with average age of 67.8 ± 8.6 SD. The control and disease groups were not significantly different with respect to age, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and waist-to-hip ratio. The disease group experienced more fatigue (P < 0.001), had more often coronary artery disease (P = 0.04), and received more medications (beta-blockers, P < 0.001). The disease group had significantly different levels of HFpEF-relevant parameters, including NT-proBNP (P < 0.001), left ventricular mass index (P = 0.005), left atrial volume index (P = 0.001), and left ventricular filling index (P < 0.001), and lower left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (P = 0.014), with no difference in left ventricular ejection fraction. Significant differences in lipid profiles between HFpEF patients and controls could not be detected, including no significant differences in abundance of circulating lipids binned by carbon chain length or by double bonds, nor at the level of individual lipid species. However, there was a striking correlation between selected lipids with smoking status that was independent of disease status, as well as between specific lipids and hyperlipidaemia [with corresponding significance of either false discovery rate (FDR) <0.1 or FDR < 0.01]. In an exploratory network analysis of correlations, we observed significantly stronger correlations within the HFpEF group between individual lipids from the cholesterol ester and phosphatidylcholine (PC) classes and clinical/echocardiographic parameters such as left atrial volume index, left ventricular end-diastolic diameters, and heart rate (FDR < 0.1). In contrast, the control group showed significantly stronger negative correlations (FDR < 0.1) between individual species from the PC and sphingomyelin classes and left ventricular mass index or systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find significant direct associations between plasma lipidomic parameters and HFpEF and therefore could not conclude that any specific lipids are biomarkers of HFpEF. The validation in larger cohort is needed to confidently conclude the absence of first-order associations.