151
|
Bokor S, Dumont J, Spinneker A, Gonzalez-Gross M, Nova E, Widhalm K, Moschonis G, Stehle P, Amouyel P, De Henauw S, Molnàr D, Moreno LA, Meirhaeghe A, Dallongeville J. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the FADS gene cluster are associated with delta-5 and delta-6 desaturase activities estimated by serum fatty acid ratios. J Lipid Res 2010; 51:2325-33. [PMID: 20427696 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m006205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic variability in the FADS1-FADS2 gene cluster [encoding delta-5 (D5D) and delta-6 (D6D) desaturases] has been associated with plasma long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) and lipid levels in adults. To better understand these relationships, we further characterized the association between FADS1-FADS2 genetic variability and D5D and D6D activities in adolescents. Thirteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in 1,144 European adolescents (mean +/- SD age: 14.7 +/- 1.4 y). Serum phospholipid fatty acid levels were analyzed using gas chromatography. D5D and D6D activities were estimated from the C20:4n-6/C20:3n-6 and C20:3n-6/C18:2n-6 ratios, respectively. Minor alleles of nine SNPs were associated with higher 18:2n-6 levels (1.9E-18 <or= P <or= 6.1E-5), lower C20:4n-6 levels (7.1E-69 <or= P <or= 1.2E-12), and lower D5D activity (7.2E-44 <or= P <or= 4.4E-5). All haplotypes carrying the rs174546 minor allele were associated with lower D5D activity, suggesting that this SNP is in linkage disequilibrium with a functional SNP within FADS1. In contrast, only the rs968567 minor allele was associated with higher D6D activity (P = 1.5E-6). This finding agrees with an earlier in vitro study showing that the minor allele of rs968567 is associated with a higher FADS2 promoter activity. These results suggest that rare alleles of several SNPs in the FADS gene cluster are associated with higher D6D activity and lower D5D activity in European adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szilvia Bokor
- Inserm U744, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Univ Lille Nord de France, UDSL, 59019 Lille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
152
|
Birch EE, Carlson SE, Hoffman DR, Fitzgerald-Gustafson KM, Fu VLN, Drover JR, Castañeda YS, Minns L, Wheaton DKH, Mundy D, Marunycz J, Diersen-Schade DA. The DIAMOND (DHA Intake And Measurement Of Neural Development) Study: a double-masked, randomized controlled clinical trial of the maturation of infant visual acuity as a function of the dietary level of docosahexaenoic acid. Am J Clin Nutr 2010; 91:848-59. [PMID: 20130095 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.2009.28557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The range of human milk docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) concentrations worldwide is much broader than the range explored in randomized clinical trials to date. OBJECTIVE The primary objective was to determine the effect of 4 amounts of DHA supplementation on the visual acuity of formula-fed infants at 12 mo of age. Secondary objectives were to evaluate visual acuity maturation, red blood cell fatty acids, tolerance, anthropometric measures, and adverse events. DESIGN This double-masked, randomized trial was conducted at 2 sites (Dallas and Kansas City). Three hundred forty-three healthy, term, formula-fed infants were enrolled at 1-9 d of age and were randomly assigned to be fed 1 of the following 4 infant formulas containing equivalent nutrient amounts, except for long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: control (0% DHA), 0.32% DHA, 0.64% DHA, or 0.96% DHA; DHA-supplemented formulas also provided 0.64% arachidonic acid. Visual acuity was measured by visual evoked potentials in 244 infants who completed the 12-mo primary outcome examination. RESULTS Infants fed control formula had significantly poorer visual evoked potential visual acuity at 12 mo of age than did infants who received any of the DHA-supplemented formulas (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in visual evoked potential visual acuity between the 3 amounts of DHA supplementation for either site at any age tested. CONCLUSIONS DHA supplementation of infant formula at 0.32% of total fatty acids improves visual acuity. Higher amounts of DHA supplementation were not associated with additional improvement of visual acuity. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00753818.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eileen E Birch
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, TX 75231, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
153
|
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and rate of progression is determined by genetic, environmental and behavioural factors. Majority of genotype-diet-CVD phenotype research till date has focussed on the interactive impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and dietary fat composition, on blood lipids levels, with strong evidence of the existence of hypo- and hyper-responders. However, a recognised concern in the field of nutrigenetics is a lack of consistency between findings of different studies. This apparent lack of consistency is likely to be attributable to the impact of factors such as ethnicity and gender on the 'size' of nutrigenetic interactions, a clear understanding of which needs to be gained. Although not yet ready for widespread use, in the future a greater use of genetic profiling is likely to enhance current strategies of CVD prediction, and improve the design of more personalised approaches to minimise risk in the individual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Minihane
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
154
|
Heird WC. Do you need a supplement of docosahexaenoic acid or an n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid? Am J Clin Nutr 2010; 91:827-8. [PMID: 20200255 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.2010.29387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
155
|
Brenna JT, Kothapalli KSD, Park WJ. Alternative transcripts of fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2010; 82:281-5. [PMID: 20236814 PMCID: PMC3045037 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2010.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alternative splicing is a major mechanism for increasing the range of products encoded by the genome. We recently reported positive identification of the first alternative transcripts (AT) of fatty acid desaturase 3 (FADS3) and FADS2 in fetal and neonatal baboons. FADS3, a putative polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) desaturase gene with no known function, has 7 AT that are expressed in at least twelve organs in an apparently constitutive manner. At least five of seven AT are expressed in several mammals and the chicken. FADS2, catalyzing 6 and 8 desaturation and having multiple PUFA substrates, has one AT that is missing two exons and portions of two others. Semi-quantitative expression estimates reveal at least 20-fold differential expression of FADS2 AT1 among neonatal baboon organs compared to 2-fold in the same organs for the classically spliced (CS) FADS2 transcript. Expression of four of the FADS3 AT, those with missing putatively active domains, is highly correlated among organs, suggesting coordinated coexpression. AT may serve as templates to generate protein isoforms or as signaling molecules, and their widespread detection and expression patterns suggest that they play an important role in PUFA biosynthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Thomas Brenna
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
156
|
Blanchard H, Legrand P, Pédrono F. Fatty Acid Desaturase 3 (Fads3) is a singular member of the Fads cluster. Biochimie 2010; 93:87-90. [PMID: 20226833 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Since its identification in 2000, no function has been attributed to the Fatty Acid Desaturase 3 (Fads3) gene. This gene is located within the Fads cluster, which also contains Fads1 and Fads2, coding respectively for the Δ5- and Δ6- desaturases. Based on the sequence homology between these three genes, Fads3 may be a new fatty acid desaturase. It is thus essential to understand its involvement in Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid (PUFA) biosynthesis in order to improve our knowledge on lipid metabolism. Gene expression studies provided evidences on the specificity of Fads3 compared to Fads1 and Fads2, concerning the tissue distribution, alternative splicing and regulation. These works also identified possible physiological functions in which Fads3 could be involved. Thus, the Fads3 gene was transcripted in many tissues, and displayed a weak expression in the liver compared to other organs such as the lung or spleen. Fads3 was also showed to be a target gene for NK-κB, MYCN or p63 transcription factors and could consequently be involved in cell survival mechanisms. Polymorphism analysis underlined the possible implication of Fads3 in lipid homeostasis, particularly by modulating cholesterol and triglyceride plasma levels. In terms of proteins, FADS3 has been recently described in rodents. One of the identified isoforms may display the classical structure of a fatty acid desaturase but no enzymatic activity has been observed yet. Therefore, it is essential to consider the desaturase diversity in terms of catalysis and substrates to elucidate the FADS3 function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Blanchard
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Nutrition Humaine, INRA USC 2012, Agrocampus Ouest, Rennes, France.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
157
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The number of studies investigating interactions between genes and nutrients for cardiovascular disease continues to grow, and holds tremendous potential for reducing disease risk at the level of the individual genotype. However, understanding the limitations and challenges of interaction studies, whether of observational or interventional design, is essential for critical evaluation of these studies. RECENT FINDINGS Nutrient-gene interactions for cardiovascular disease both parallel and extend nutrition studies, encompassing both traditional and novel cardiovascular risk factors. Fatty acid quality, lipid metabolism, inflammation, postprandial metabolism, fatty liver and macronutrient-gene interactions for obesity and metabolic syndrome represent a subset of the major areas of recent focus. With few exceptions, however, studies of gene-nutrient interactions are limited to a single population. SUMMARY Gene-nutrient research will continue to expand as genome-wide association studies uncover new sources of genetic variability associated with cardiovascular risk. However, in addition to investigation of newly discovered variants, continuing efforts must focus on the confirmation of previously reported genetic associations and interactions in additional populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caren E Smith
- Jean Mayer US Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
158
|
Lattka E, Eggers S, Moeller G, Heim K, Weber M, Mehta D, Prokisch H, Illig T, Adamski J. A common FADS2 promoter polymorphism increases promoter activity and facilitates binding of transcription factor ELK1. J Lipid Res 2010; 51:182-91. [PMID: 19546342 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m900289-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acid desaturases (FADS) play an important role in the formation of omega-6 and omega-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs). The composition of HUFAs in the human metabolome is important for membrane fluidity and for the modulation of essential physiological functions such as inflammation processes and brain development. Several recent studies reported significant associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the human FADS gene cluster with HUFA levels and composition. The presence of the minor allele correlated with a decrease of desaturase reaction products and an accumulation of substrates. We performed functional studies with two of the associated polymorphisms (rs3834458 and rs968567) and showed an influence of polymorphism rs968567 on FADS2 promoter activity by luciferase reporter gene assays. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays proved allele-dependent DNA-binding ability of at least two protein complexes to the region containing SNP rs968567. One of the proteins binding to this region in an allele-specific manner was shown to be the transcription factor ELK1 (a member of ETS domain transcription factor family). These results indicate that rs968567 influences FADS2 transcription and offer first insights into the modulation of complex regulation mechanisms of FADS2 gene transcription by SNPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Lattka
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
159
|
Lattka E, Illig T, Koletzko B, Heinrich J. Genetic variants of the FADS1 FADS2 gene cluster as related to essential fatty acid metabolism. Curr Opin Lipidol 2010; 21:64-9. [PMID: 19809313 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0b013e3283327ca8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The delta-5 and delta-6 desaturases have long been known to be important enzymes in the endogenous formation of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs). Cloning of the coding sequences and chromosomal localization of the desaturase encoding genes fatty acid desaturase 1 and 2 (FADS1 and FADS2) opened the way for analyses of genetic factors as regulators of desaturase activity and LC-PUFA homeostasis. The present review summarizes the recent association studies on FADS genotypes and LC-PUFA levels and suggests ideas how FADS genotypes can be integrated in future research. RECENT FINDINGS An initial candidate gene study reported highly significant associations between FADS gene cluster polymorphisms and fatty acid levels in serum phospholipids with an extraordinary high genetically explained variance for arachidonic acid levels of 28.5%. Carriers of the minor alleles had enhanced levels of desaturase substrates and decreased levels of desaturase products, suggesting a decline in desaturase expression or activity because of the polymorphisms. These results were replicated in several association studies additionally showing an effect in different human tissues as well as in a recent genome-wide association study on LC-PUFA levels. SUMMARY The validated strong association between FADS genotypes and fatty acid levels in diverse human tissues shows that FADS gene cluster polymorphisms are, in addition to nutritional regulation of fatty acid synthesis, a very important regulator of LC-PUFA synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Lattka
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
160
|
Current Opinion in Lipidology. Current world literature. Curr Opin Lipidol 2010; 21:84-8. [PMID: 20101119 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0b013e32833592e7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
161
|
Conklin SM, Runyan C, Leonard S, Reddy RD, Muldoon MF, Yao JK. Age-related changes of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the anterior cingulate cortex of individuals with major depressive disorder. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2010; 82:111-9. [PMID: 20060277 PMCID: PMC2955405 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2009.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence finds a relative deficiency of peripheral membrane fatty acids in persons with affective disorders such as unipolar and bipolar depression. Here we sought to investigate whether postmortem brain fatty acids within the anterior cingulate cortex (BA-24) varied according to the presence of major depression at the time of death. Using capillary gas chromatography we measured fatty acids in a depressed group (n=12), and in a control group without lifetime history of psychiatric diagnosis (n=14). Compared to the control group, the depressed group showed significantly lower concentrations of numerous saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids including both the n-3 and n-6 fatty acids. Additionally, significant correlations between age at death and precursor (or metabolites) in the n-3 fatty acid pathway were demonstrated in the depressed group but not in control subjects. In the n-6 fatty acid family, the ratio of 20:3(n-6)/18:2(n-6) was higher in patients than in control groups, whereas the ratio of 20:4(n-6)/20:3(n-6) was relatively decreased in patients. Lastly, a significant negative correlation between age and the ratio of 20:4(n-6) to 22:6(n-3) was found in patients, but not in controls. Taken together, decreases in 22:6(n-3) may be caused, at least in part, by the diminished formation of 20:5(n-3), which is derived from 20:4(n-3) through a Delta5 desaturase reaction. The present findings from postmortem brain tissue raise the possibility that an increased ratio of 20:4(n-6) to 22:6(n-3) may provide us with a biomarker for depression. Future research should further investigate these relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Conklin
- Medical Research Service, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Neuroscience Program and Department of Psychology, Allegheny College, Meadville, PA, USA
| | | | - Sherry Leonard
- Denver VA Medical Center, and Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Ravinder D. Reddy
- Medical Research Service, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Matthew F. Muldoon
- Medical Research Service, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey K. Yao
- Medical Research Service, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Corresponding author: Tel: +1 412 954 5787; fax: +1 412 954 5786,
| |
Collapse
|
162
|
McNamara RK. Modulation of polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis by antipsychotic medications: implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.2217/clp.09.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
163
|
Do FADS genotypes enhance our knowledge about fatty acid related phenotypes? Clin Nutr 2009; 29:277-87. [PMID: 19948371 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 10/22/2009] [Accepted: 11/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several physiological processes, such as visual and cognitive development in early life, are dependent on the availability of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs). Furthermore, the concentration of LC-PUFAs in phospholipids has been associated with numerous complex diseases like cardiovascular disease, atopic disease and metabolic syndrome. The level and composition of LC-PUFAs in the human body is mainly dependent on their dietary intake or on the intake of fatty acid precursors, which are endogenously elongated and desaturated to physiologically active LC-PUFAs. The delta-5 and delta-6 desaturase are the most important enzymes in this reaction cascade. In the last few years, several studies have reported an association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the two desaturase encoding genes (FADS1 and FADS2) and the concentration of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. This shows that beside nutrition, genetic factors play an important role in the regulation of LC-PUFAs as well. This review focuses on current knowledge of the impact of FADS genotypes on LC-PUFA and lipid metabolism and discusses their influence on infant intellectual development, neurological conditions, metabolic disease as well as cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
|
164
|
Membrane omega-3 Fatty Acid deficiency as a preventable risk factor for comorbid coronary heart disease in major depressive disorder. Cardiovasc Psychiatry Neurol 2009; 2009:362795. [PMID: 19936106 PMCID: PMC2774576 DOI: 10.1155/2009/362795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2009] [Accepted: 07/10/2009] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depression disorder (MDD) significantly increases the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) which is a leading cause of mortality in patients with MDD. Moreover, depression is frequently observed in a subset of patients following acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and increases risk for mortality. Here evidence implicating omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid deficiency in the pathoaetiology of CHD and MDD is reviewed, and the hypothesis that n-3 fatty acid deficiency is a preventable risk factor for CHD comorbidity in MDD patients is evaluated. This hypothesis is supported by cross-national and cross-sectional epidemiological surveys finding an inverse correlation between n-3 fatty acid status and prevalence rates of both CHD and MDD, prospective studies finding that lower dietary or membrane EPA+DHA levels increase risk for both MDD and CHD, case-control studies finding that the n-3 fatty acid status of MDD patients places them at high risk for emergent CHD morbidity and mortality, meta-analyses of controlled n-3 fatty acid intervention studies finding significant advantage over placebo for reducing depression symptom severity in MDD patients, and for secondary prevention of cardiac events in CHD patients, findings that n-3 fatty acid status is inversely correlated with other documented CHD risk factors, and patients diagnosed with MDD after ACS exhibit significantly lower n-3 fatty acid status compared with nondepressed ACS patients. This body of evidence provides strong support for future studies to evaluate the effects of increasing dietary n-3 fatty acid status on CHD comorbidity and mortality in MDD patients.
Collapse
|
165
|
Smilowitz J, German J, Zivkovic A. Food Intake and Obesity. Front Neurosci 2009. [DOI: 10.1201/9781420067767-c22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
166
|
Pédrono F, Blanchard H, Kloareg M, D'andréa S, Daval S, Rioux V, Legrand P. The fatty acid desaturase 3 gene encodes for different FADS3 protein isoforms in mammalian tissues. J Lipid Res 2009; 51:472-9. [PMID: 19752397 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m000588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2000, Marquardt et al. (A. Marquardt, H. Stöhr, K. White, and B. H. F. Weber. 2000. cDNA cloning, genomic structure, and chromosomal localization of three members of the human fatty acid desaturase family. Genomics. 66: 176-183.) described the genomic structure of the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) cluster in humans. This cluster includes the FADS1 and FADS2 genes encoding, respectively, for the Delta 5- and Delta 6-desaturases involved in polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis. A third gene, named FADS3, has recently been identified but no functional role has yet been attributed to the putative FADS3 protein. In this study, we investigated the FADS3 occurrence in rat tissues by using two specific polyclonal antibodies directed against the N-terminal and C-terminal ends of rat FADS3. Our results showed three potential protein isoforms of FADS3 (75 kDa, 51 kDa, and 37 kDa) present in a tissue-dependent manner. The occurrence of these FADS3 isoforms did not depend on the mRNA level determined by real-time PCR. In parallel, mouse tissues were also tested and showed the same three FADS3 isoforms but with a different tissue distribution. Finally, we reported the existence of FADS3 in human cells and tissues but different new isoforms were identified. To conclude, we showed in this study that FADS3 does exist under multiple protein isoforms depending on the mammalian tissues. These results will help further investigations to determine the physiological function of FADS3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frédérique Pédrono
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Nutrition Humaine, USC INRA 2012, Agrocampus Ouest, Rennes, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
167
|
Plaisier CL, Horvath S, Huertas-Vazquez A, Cruz-Bautista I, Herrera MF, Tusie-Luna T, Aguilar-Salinas C, Pajukanta P. A systems genetics approach implicates USF1, FADS3, and other causal candidate genes for familial combined hyperlipidemia. PLoS Genet 2009; 5:e1000642. [PMID: 19750004 PMCID: PMC2730565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1000642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 08/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We hypothesized that a common SNP in the 3' untranslated region of the upstream transcription factor 1 (USF1), rs3737787, may affect lipid traits by influencing gene expression levels, and we investigated this possibility utilizing the Mexican population, which has a high predisposition to dyslipidemia. We first associated rs3737787 genotypes in Mexican Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia (FCHL) case/control fat biopsies, with global expression patterns. To identify sets of co-expressed genes co-regulated by similar factors such as transcription factors, genetic variants, or environmental effects, we utilized weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Through WGCNA in the Mexican FCHL fat biopsies we identified two significant Triglyceride (TG)-associated co-expression modules. One of these modules was also associated with FCHL, the other FCHL component traits, and rs3737787 genotypes. This USF1-regulated FCHL-associated (URFA) module was enriched for genes involved in lipid metabolic processes. Using systems genetics procedures we identified 18 causal candidate genes in the URFA module. The FCHL causal candidate gene fatty acid desaturase 3 (FADS3) was associated with TGs in a recent Caucasian genome-wide significant association study and we replicated this association in Mexican FCHL families. Based on a USF1-regulated FCHL-associated co-expression module and SNP rs3737787, we identify a set of causal candidate genes for FCHL-related traits. We then provide evidence from two independent datasets supporting FADS3 as a causal gene for FCHL and elevated TGs in Mexicans. By integrating a genetic polymorphism with genome-wide gene expression levels, we were able to attribute function to a genetic polymorphism in the USF1 gene. The USF1 gene has previously been associated with a common dyslipidemia, FCHL. FCHL is characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, or both. We demonstrate that this genetic polymorphism in USF1 contributes to FCHL disease risk by modulating the expression of a group of genes functionally related to lipid metabolism, and that this modulation is mediated by USF1. One of the genes whose expression is modulated by USF1 is FADS3, which was also implicated in a recent genome-wide association study for lipid traits. We demonstrated that a genetic polymorphism from the FADS3 region, which was associated with triglycerides in a GWAS study of Caucasians, was also associated with triglycerides in Mexican FCHL families. Our analysis provides novel insight into the gene expression profile contributing to FCHL disease risk, and identifies FADS3 as a new gene for FCHL in Mexicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L. Plaisier
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Adriana Huertas-Vazquez
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ivette Cruz-Bautista
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel F. Herrera
- Surgery Division, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Teresa Tusie-Luna
- Molecular Biology and Genomic Medicine Unit, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de la UNAM, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Aguilar-Salinas
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Päivi Pajukanta
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
168
|
Liu Y, Jandacek R, Rider T, Tso P, McNamara RK. Elevated delta-6 desaturase (FADS2) expression in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of schizophrenic patients: relationship with fatty acid composition. Schizophr Res 2009; 109:113-20. [PMID: 19195843 PMCID: PMC8432756 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2008.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Revised: 12/30/2008] [Accepted: 12/31/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Although emerging evidence suggests that schizophrenia (SZ) is associated with peripheral and central polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) deficits, there is currently nothing known about the expression of genes that mediate PUFA biosynthesis in SZ patients. Here we determined Delta5 desaturase (FADS1), Delta6 desaturase (FADS2), elongase (HELO1 [ELOVL5]), peroxisomal (PEX19), and Delta9 desaturase (stearoyl-CoA desaturase, SCD) mRNA expression, and relevant fatty acid product:precursor ratios as estimates of enzyme activities, in the postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC) of patients with SZ (n=20) and non-psychiatric controls (n=20). After correction for multiple comparisons, FADS2 mRNA expression was significantly greater in SZ patients relative to controls (+36%, p=0.002), and there was a positive trend found for FADS1 (+26%, p=0.15). No differences were found for HELO1 (+10%, p=0.44), PEX19 (+12%, p=0.44), or SCD (-6%, p=0.85). Both male (+34%, p=0.02) and female (+42%, p=0.02) SZ patients exhibited greater FADS2 mRNA expression relative to same-gender controls. Drug-free SZ patients (+37%, p=0.02), and SZ patients treated with typical (+40%, p=0.002) or atypical (+31%, p=0.04) antipsychotics, exhibited greater FADS2 mRNA expression relative to controls. Consistent with increased Delta6 desaturase activity, SZ patients exhibited a greater 20:3/18:2 ratio (+20%, p=0.03) and a positive trend was found for 20:4/18:2 (+13%, p=0.07). These data demonstrate abnormal, potentially compensatory, elevations in Delta6 desaturase (FADS2) expression in the PFC of SZ patients that are independent of gender and antipsychotic medications. Greater Delta6 desaturase expression and activity could have implications for central prostaglandin synthesis and proinflammatory signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States
| | - Ronald Jandacek
- Department of Pathology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH 45237, United States
| | - Therese Rider
- Department of Pathology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH 45237, United States
| | - Patrick Tso
- Department of Pathology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH 45237, United States
| | - Robert K. McNamara
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States
- Corresponding author. Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0559, United States. Tel.: +1 513 558 5601; fax: +1 513 558 2955. (R.K. McNamara)
| |
Collapse
|
169
|
Angela Liou Y, Innis SM. Dietary linoleic acid has no effect on arachidonic acid, but increases n-6 eicosadienoic acid, and lowers dihomo-gamma-linolenic and eicosapentaenoic acid in plasma of adult men. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2009; 80:201-6. [PMID: 19356914 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2009.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
High intakes of linoleic acid (LA,18:2n-6) have raised concern due to possible increase in arachidonic acid (ARA, 20:4n-6) synthesis, and inhibition of alpha linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3n-3) desaturation to eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3). In healthy men, 10.5% energy compared to 3.8% energy LA with 1% energy ALA increased plasma phospholipid LA and 20:2n-6, the elongation product of LA, and decreased EPA, with no change in ARA. However, LA was inversely related to ARA at both 10.5% energy and 3.8% energy LA, (r=-0.761, r=-0.817, p<0.001, respectively). A two-fold variability in ARA among individuals was not explained by the dietary LA, ARA, ALA, or fish intake. Our results confirm LA requirements for ARA synthesis is low, <3.8% energy, and they suggest current LA intakes saturate Delta-6 desaturation and adversely affect n-3 fatty acid metabolism. Factors other than n-6 fatty acid intake are important modifiers of plasma ARA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Angela Liou
- Nutrition Research Program, Child and Family Research Institute, Department of Paediatrics, University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
170
|
Park WJ, Kothapalli KSD, Lawrence P, Tyburczy C, Brenna JT. An alternate pathway to long-chain polyunsaturates: the FADS2 gene product Delta8-desaturates 20:2n-6 and 20:3n-3. J Lipid Res 2009; 50:1195-202. [PMID: 19202133 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m800630-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Delta6-desaturase coded by fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2; HSA11q12-q13.1) catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step for the biosynthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. FADS2 is known to act on at least five substrates, and we hypothesized that the FADS2 gene product would have Delta8-desaturase activity. Saccharomyces cerevisiae transformed with a FADS2 construct from baboon neonate liver cDNA gained the function to desaturate 11,14-eicosadienoic acid (20:2n-6) and 11,14,17-eicosatrienoic acid (20:3n-3) to yield 20:3n-6 and 20:4n-3, respectively. Competition experiments indicate that Delta8-desaturation favors activity toward 20:3n-3 over 20:2n-6 by 3-fold. Similar experiments show that Delta6-desaturase activity is favored over Delta8-desaturase activity by 7-fold and 23-fold for n-6 (18:2n-6 vs 20:2n-6) and n-3 (18:3n-3 vs 20:3n-3), respectively. In mammals, 20:3n-6 is the immediate precursor of prostaglandin E1 and thromboxane B1. 20:3n-6 and 20:4n-3 are also immediate precursors of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, respectively. These findings provide unequivocal molecular evidence for a novel alternative biosynthetic route to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in mammals from substrates previously considered to be dead-end products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woo Jung Park
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
171
|
Gieger C, Geistlinger L, Altmaier E, Hrabé de Angelis M, Kronenberg F, Meitinger T, Mewes HW, Wichmann HE, Weinberger KM, Adamski J, Illig T, Suhre K. Genetics meets metabolomics: a genome-wide association study of metabolite profiles in human serum. PLoS Genet 2008; 4:e1000282. [PMID: 19043545 PMCID: PMC2581785 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1000282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 508] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2008] [Accepted: 10/28/2008] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapidly evolving field of metabolomics aims at a comprehensive measurement of ideally all endogenous metabolites in a cell or body fluid. It thereby provides a functional readout of the physiological state of the human body. Genetic variants that associate with changes in the homeostasis of key lipids, carbohydrates, or amino acids are not only expected to display much larger effect sizes due to their direct involvement in metabolite conversion modification, but should also provide access to the biochemical context of such variations, in particular when enzyme coding genes are concerned. To test this hypothesis, we conducted what is, to the best of our knowledge, the first GWA study with metabolomics based on the quantitative measurement of 363 metabolites in serum of 284 male participants of the KORA study. We found associations of frequent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with considerable differences in the metabolic homeostasis of the human body, explaining up to 12% of the observed variance. Using ratios of certain metabolite concentrations as a proxy for enzymatic activity, up to 28% of the variance can be explained (p-values 10(-16) to 10(-21)). We identified four genetic variants in genes coding for enzymes (FADS1, LIPC, SCAD, MCAD) where the corresponding metabolic phenotype (metabotype) clearly matches the biochemical pathways in which these enzymes are active. Our results suggest that common genetic polymorphisms induce major differentiations in the metabolic make-up of the human population. This may lead to a novel approach to personalized health care based on a combination of genotyping and metabolic characterization. These genetically determined metabotypes may subscribe the risk for a certain medical phenotype, the response to a given drug treatment, or the reaction to a nutritional intervention or environmental challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Gieger
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Ludwig Geistlinger
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Altmaier
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabé de Angelis
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Life and Food Science Center Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - Florian Kronenberg
- Division of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Meitinger
- Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Werner Mewes
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Genome-Oriented Bioinformatics, Life and Food Science Center Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - H.-Erich Wichmann
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Jerzy Adamski
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Life and Food Science Center Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - Thomas Illig
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Karsten Suhre
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
172
|
Xie L, Innis SM. Genetic Variants of the FADS1 FADS2 Gene Cluster Are Associated with Altered (n-6) and (n-3) Essential Fatty Acids in Plasma and Erythrocyte Phospholipids in Women during Pregnancy and in Breast Milk during Lactation. J Nutr 2008; 138:2222-8. [PMID: 18936223 DOI: 10.3945/jn.108.096156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xie
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | | |
Collapse
|
173
|
McNamara RK, Able J, Jandacek R, Rider T, Tso P. Inbred C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mouse strains exhibit constitutive differences in regional brain fatty acid composition. Lipids 2008; 44:1-8. [PMID: 18923861 DOI: 10.1007/s11745-008-3244-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2008] [Accepted: 09/17/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Major behavioral and neurochemical features observed between inbred C57BL/6 and DBA/2 mouse strains can be reproduced within rodent strains following dietary-induced reductions in brain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) composition. It was therefore hypothesized that C57BL/6 and DBA/2 mice exhibit constitutive differences in brain DHA composition that are independent of diet. To test this, adult C57BL/6J and DBA/2J prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, ventral striatum, and midbrain fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography. After correction for multiple comparisons, C57BL/6J mice exhibited significantly lower DHA composition in the hippocampus and ventral striatum, but not prefrontal cortex or midbrain, and significantly greater regional arachidonic acid (ARA, 20:4n-6):DHA ratios, relative to DBA/2J mice. C57BL/6J mice also exhibited significantly lower regional adrenic acid (ADA, 22:4n-6) composition, and a significantly smaller ADA:ARA ratio, relative to DBA/2J mice. C57BL/6J mice exhibited significantly smaller oleic acid:stearic acid ratio in the hippocampus and ventral striatum relative to DBA/2J mice. Among all mice, DHA composition was positively correlated with the ADA:ARA ratio and inversely correlated with the oleic acid:stearic acid ratio. These data demonstrate that inbred C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mouse strains exhibit constitutive and region-specific differences in fatty acid composition independent of diet, and suggest that heritable genetic factors are an important determinant of central fatty acid composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert K McNamara
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0516, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
174
|
Martinelli N, Girelli D, Malerba G, Guarini P, Illig T, Trabetti E, Sandri M, Friso S, Pizzolo F, Schaeffer L, Heinrich J, Pignatti PF, Corrocher R, Olivieri O. FADS genotypes and desaturase activity estimated by the ratio of arachidonic acid to linoleic acid are associated with inflammation and coronary artery disease. Am J Clin Nutr 2008; 88:941-9. [PMID: 18842780 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/88.4.941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The delta-5 and delta-6 desaturases, encoded by FADS1 and FADS2 genes, are key enzymes in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism that catalyze the conversion of linoleic acid (LA) into arachidonic acid (AA) and that of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FADS1 and FADS2 have been associated with different concentrations of AA and LA, and those associations have possible functional consequences for desaturase activity. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the possible association among FADS genotypes, desaturase activity, inflammation, and coronary artery disease (CAD). DESIGN Thirteen FADS SNPs and the ratio of AA to LA (AA/LA) on red blood cell (RBC) membranes, a marker of desaturase activity, were evaluated in 876 subjects with (n = 610) or without (n = 266) angiographically documented CAD. RESULTS Both AA/LA and the ratio of EPA to ALA (EPA/ALA) were higher in patients with CAD than in those without CAD, but, in a multiple logistic regression model, only a higher AA/LA resulted an independent risk factor for CAD (odds ratio: 2.55; 95% CI: 1.61, 4.05 for higher compared with lower ratio tertile; P for trend < 0.001). Furthermore, concentrations of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein increased progressively across tertiles of AA/LA. Graded increases in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations and CAD risk were related to the carriership of FADS haplotypes, including the alleles associated with a higher ratio. CONCLUSION In populations following a Western diet, subjects carrying FADS haplotypes that are associated with higher desaturase activity may be prone to a proinflammatory response favoring atherosclerotic vascular damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Martinelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and the Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
175
|
Innis SM. Dietary omega 3 fatty acids and the developing brain. Brain Res 2008; 1237:35-43. [PMID: 18789910 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.08.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 383] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Revised: 08/21/2008] [Accepted: 08/22/2008] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The omega-3 fatty acids are essential dietary nutrients and one of their important roles is providing the fatty acid with 22 carbons and 6 double bonds known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for nervous tissue growth and function. Inadequate intakes of omega-3 fatty acids decrease DHA and increase omega-6 fatty acids in the brain. Decreased DHA in the developing brain leads to deficits in neurogenesis, neurotransmitter metabolism, and altered learning and visual function in animals. Western diets are low in omega-3 fatty acids, including the 18 carbon omega-3 fatty acid alpha linolenic acid found mainly in plant oils, and DHA, which is found mainly in fish. The DHA status of the newborn and breast-fed infant depends on the maternal intake of DHA and varies widely. Epidemiological studies have linked low maternal DHA to increased risk of poor child neural development. Intervention studies have shown improving maternal DHA nutrition decreases the risk of poor infant and child visual and neural development. Thus, sufficient evidence is available to conclude that maternal fatty acid nutrition is important to DHA transfer to the infant before and after birth, with short and long-term implications for neural function. However, genetic variation in genes encoding fatty acid desaturases also influence essential fatty acid metabolism, and may increase requirements in some individuals. Consideration of omega-3 fatty acid to include brain development, optimizing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in gestation and lactation, and in fatty acid nutrition support for intravenous and formula-fed neonates is important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila M Innis
- Nutrition Research Program, Child and Family Research Institute, Department of Paediatrics, University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
176
|
Associations between neonatal birth dimensions and maternal essential and trans fatty acid contents during pregnancy and at delivery. Br J Nutr 2008; 101:399-407. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114508006740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Since birth dimensions have prognostic potential for later development and health, possible associations between neonatal birth dimensions and selected maternal plasma fatty acid contents were investigated, using data from 782 mother–infant pairs of the Maastricht Essential Fatty Acid Birth cohort. Unadjusted and multivariable-adjusted regression analyses were applied to study the associations between birth weight, birth length or head circumference and the relative contents of DHA, arachidonic acid (AA), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) and 18 : 1trans (18 : 1t) in maternal plasma phospholipids sampled during early, middle and late pregnancies, and at delivery. Where appropriate, corrections were made for relevant covariables. Significant ‘positive’ associations were observed between maternal DHA contents (especially early in pregnancy) and birth weight (B = 52·10 g, 95 % CI 20·40, 83·80) and head circumference (B = 0·223 cm, 95 % CI 0·074, 0·372). AA contents at late pregnancy were ‘negatively’ associated with birth weight (B = − 44·25 g, 95 % CI − 68·33, − 20·16) and birth length (B = − 0·200 cm, 95 % CI − 0·335, − 0·065). Significant ‘negative’ associations were also observed for AA contents at delivery and birth weight (B = − 27·08 g, 95 % CI − 47·11, − 7·056) and birth length (B = − 0·207 cm, 95 % CI − 0·330, − 0·084). Maternal DGLA contents at delivery were also significantly ‘negatively’ associated with neonatal birth weight (B = − 85·76 g, 95 % CI − 130·9, − 40·61) and birth length (B = − 0·413 cm, 95 % CI − 0·680, − 0·146). No significant associations were observed for maternal 18 : 1t contents. We conclude that during early pregnancy, maternal DHA content may programme fetal growth in a positive way. Maternal AA and DGLA in late pregnancy might be involved in fetal growth limitation.
Collapse
|