Adipokines and Obesity. Potential Link to Metabolic Disorders and Chronic Complications

Different Effects of Low Selenite and Selenium-Nanoparticle Supplementation on Adipose Tissue Function and Insulin Secretion in Adolescent Male Rats

Adolescence is a period of intense growth and endocrine changes, and obesity and insulin-resistance processes during this period have lately been rising. Selenium (Se) homeostasis is related to lipid metabolism depending on the form and dose of Se. This study tests the actions of low-dose selenite and Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) on white (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) deposition, insulin secretion, and GPx1, IRS-1 and FOXO3a expression in the WAT of adolescent rats as regards oxidative stress, adipocyte length and adipokine secretion. Four groups of male adolescent rats were treated: control (C), low selenite supplementation (S), low SeNP supplementation (NS) and moderate SeNP supplementation (NSS). Supplementation was received orally through water intake; NS and NSS rats received two- and tenfold more Se than C animals, respectively. SeNPs were obtained by reducing Se tetrachloride in the presence of ascorbic acid. For the first time in vivo, it was demonstrated that low selenite supplementation contributed to increased adipogenesis via the insulin signaling pathway and LCN2 modulation, while low SeNP administration prevented fat depots in WAT via the decrease in insulin signaling and FOXO3a autophagy in WAT, lowering inflammation. These effects were independent of GPx1 expression or activity in WAT. These findings provide data for dietary approaches to prevent obesity and/or anorexia during adolescence. These findings may be relevant to future studies looking at a nutritional approach aimed at pre-venting obesity and/or anorexia in adolescence.

Altered Adipokine Expression in Tumor Microenvironment Promotes Development of Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Obesity is a remarkably important factor for breast carcinogenesis and aggressiveness. The implication of increased BMI in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) development is also well established. A malignancy-promoting role of the adipose tissue has been supposed, where the adipocytes that constitute the majority of stromal cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. Alterations in adipokines and their receptors play significant roles in breast cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and drug response. Classic adipokines, such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, have been extensively studied in breast cancer and connected with breast cancer risk and progression. Notably, new molecules are constantly being discovered and the list is continuously growing. Additionally, substantial progress has been made concerning their differential expression in association with clinical and pathological parameters of tumors and the prognostic and predictive value of their dysregulation in breast cancer carcinogenesis. However, evidence regarding the mechanisms by which adipose tissue is involved in the development of TNBC is lacking. In the present article we comment on current data on the suggested involvement of these mediators in breast cancer development and progression, with particular emphasis on TNBC, to draw attention to the design of novel targeted therapies and biomarkers.

Chemical Profiles and Antiobesity Effect of a Mixture of Astragalus membranaceus and Lithospermum erythrorhizon Extract in High Fat Diet Fed Mice

The present study aimed to evaluate the antiobesity potential and synergistic effects of ALM16, a mixture of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Lithospermum erythrorhizon (LE) extracts, in HFD-induced obese mice. C57BL/6 mice were fed a normal diet (ND), high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + AM, HFD + LE or HFD + ALM16 (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) daily for 5 weeks. Compared to the ND group, HFD-fed mice showed significant increases in body weight, food efficiency ratio, weights of white adipose tissues, adipocytes size, liver weight, and hepatic steatosis grade. However, ALM16 significantly reduced those increases induced by HFD. Moreover, as compared to the HFD group, the ALM16 group significantly ameliorated serum levels of lipid profiles (TG, TC, HDL, and LDL), adipokines (leptin and adiponectin), and liver damage markers (AST and ALT levels). Notably, ALM16 was more effective than AM or LE alone and had a similar or more potent effect than Garcinia cambogia extracts, as a positive control, at the same dose. These results demonstrate that ALM16 synergistically exerts anti-obesity effects based on complementary interactions between each component. Also, metabolic profiling between each extract and the ALM16 was confirmed by UPLC-QTOF/MS, and the difference was confirmed by relative quantification.

Inhibitory effect of saffron, crocin, crocetin, and safranal against adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been introduced as a potential promising natural antioxidant with anti-obesity properties. In Persian Medicine, saffron has been used to control appetite and obesity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aims to investigate the effect of saffron and its bioactive compounds on adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Flow-Cytometric analysis was performed to quantify the cell surface markers. The extracts cytotoxicity on hASCs was measured using alamarBlue® assay whereas their activities against adipocyte differentiation were studied using Oil Red O staining. The level of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), Fatty Acid Synthetase (FAS), and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPHD) which are key proteins in cell differentiation was investigated by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Flow-cytometry revealed the mesenchymal stem cells markers, CD44 and CD90, on ADSCs surface. The saffron, crocin, and crocetin significantly inhibited adipocyte differentiation while saffron up to 20 μg/mL and crocin, crocetin and safranal up to 20 μM did not exhibit cytotoxicity. The western blotting analysis revealed a remarkable reduction in the level of PPARγ, GAPDH, and FAS proteins by 10 and 20 μM of crocin and 2.5 and 5 μM of crocetin.

CONCLUSION

It seems that saffron, crocin, and crocetin could efficiently inhibit the differentiation of hASCs with benefits for the treatment and prevention of obesity.

The Effect of Metabolic Profile on Leptin, Adiponectin, and hs-CRP in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

Adipokines are a superfamily of cell signaling proteins produced by the adipose tissue. This study’s purpose was to reveal the association of adipokines (leptin, adiponectin), hs-CRP, and IL-6 with well-known cardiovascular risk factors (lipid profile, diabetes control, obesity, physical activity) in children and adolescents with T1D. This cross-sectional study included 80 participants (36 boys) with T1D, aged (mean ± SD) 14.8 ± 3.4 years. Body Mass Index (BMI), metabolic profile, and level of physical activity were assessed (using pedometers) for evaluation of their effect on serum leptin, adiponectin, IL-6, and hs-CRP. Leptin levels were associated with BMI (beta = 0.184, p < 0.001), waist to hip ratio (beta = −2.017, p = 0.022), Low Density Lipoprotein-C (LDL-C) (beta = 0.021, p = 0.005), and fat mass (beta = 14.07, p < 0.001). Adiponectin was correlated with waist to height ratio (beta = 0.048, p = 0.006), ΒΜΙ (beta = −0.056, p = 0.005), and muscle mass (beta = −0.013, p = 0.020). Interestingly, hs-CRP was associated with weight (beta = 0.035, p < 0.001), ΒΜI (beta = 0.186, p < 0.001), fat mass (beta = 5.2859, p = 0.004), and muscle mass (beta = 0.027, p = 0.008). Multiple regression analysis of muscle mass unveiled associations with log hs-CRP (beta = −1.237, p = 0.014) and inverse IL−6 (beta = 18.57, p = 0.01). Finally, multiple regression models of fat mass unveiled associations with physical activity (7-day-total-step-count) (beta = −3.90 × 10−7, p = 0.027), Inverse IL-6 (beta = −0.1572, p = 0.009), and squared leptin (beta = 0.0077, p = 0.03). This study reports a positive association of leptin with LDL-C, BMI, fat mass, and hip circumference and a negative association of adiponectin with BMI and muscle mass. Finally, hs-CRP was associated with HbA1c, fat mass, and BMI. We propose that leptin, adiponectin, and hs-CRP could be used as prognostic indicators of cardiovascular risk in children with T1D.

A brief overview about the adipokine: Isthmin-1

Isthmin-1 is a secreted protein with multiple capability; however, it truly attracts our attention since the definition as an adipokine in 2021, which exerts indispensable roles in various pathophysiological processes through the endocrine or autocrine manners. In this review, we summarize recent knowledge of isthmin-1, including its distribution, structure, receptor and potential function.

Crosstalk between dietary patterns, obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rising worldwide, paralleling the epidemic of obesity. The liver is a key organ for the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Various types of fats and carbohydrates in isocaloric diets differently influence fat accumulation in the liver parenchyma. Therefore, nutrition can manage hepatic and cardiometabolic complications of NAFLD. Even moderately reduced caloric intake, which leads to a weight loss of 5%-10% of initial body weight, is effective in improving liver steatosis and surrogate markers of liver disease status. Among dietary patterns, the Mediterranean diet mostly prevents the onset of NAFLD. Furthermore, this diet is also the most recommended for the treatment of NAFLD patients. However, clinical trials based on the dietary interventions in NAFLD patients are sparse. Since there are only a few studies examining dietary interventions in clinically advanced stages of NAFLD, such as active and fibrotic steatohepatitis, the optimal diet for patients in these stages of the disease must still be determined. In this narrative review, we aimed to critically summarize the associations between different dietary patterns, obesity and prevention/risk for NAFLD, to describe specific dietary interventions’ impacts on liver steatosis in adults with NAFLD and to provide an updated overview of dietary recommendations that clinicians potentially need to apply in their daily practice.

Changes in adipokine concentrations in antidepressant-resistant bipolar depression after ketamine infusion and electroconvulsive therapy

OBJECTIVES

This study attempts to assess the concentration of two opposite-acting adipokines (anti-inflammatory adiponectin and pro-inflammatory resistin) in antidepressant-resistant patients undergoing ketamine infusion (KI) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

METHODS

The study group comprised 52 patients hospitalised due to episodes of depression in the course of bipolar disorders. The Hamilton depression scale was used to assess the intensity of the depression symptoms before starting therapy and one day after its completion. The serum concentration of adipokines was determined before and after the therapeutic intervention using an ELISA method.

RESULTS

Baseline adipokine levels differed between patients receiving KI and ECT therapy. Regardless of the procedure used, these levels changed after treatment, with the nature of these changes being different. In the case of KI, the adiponectin levels increased, and resistin levels decreased. In contrast, after ECT, the concentrations of both adipokines decreased. Changes in adipokine concentrations correlated with improvement in mental status, as assessed by the Hamilton Rating Scale, type of bipolar disorder, and gender.

CONCLUSIONS

Adipokines remain interesting candidate biomarkers in assessing the state and course of the disease depending on the therapeutic procedure applied. However, the relatively small study group and limited original research available for discussion justify further investigation.

Significant Decrease in Glycated Hemoglobin, 2h-Post-Load Glucose and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels in Patients with Abnormal Body Mass Index after Therapy with Manual Lymphatic Drainage

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) on the insulin resistance parameter (HOMA-IR), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), C-peptide, insulin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2h-post-loadglucose (2h-PG) and the concentration of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) in patients with abnormal body mass index. The study involved 30 patients, including patients with normal body weight (as a control group; group I; n = 14), overweight patients (group II; n = 9) and obese patients (group III; n = 7). Each patient underwent 10 sessions of MLD therapy, 3 times a week for 30 min. In addition, we measured body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and performed body composition analysis as well as biochemical tests before MLD therapy (stage 0′) and after MLD therapy (stage 1′). A statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between the concentration of C-peptide, BMI, the amount of visceral adipose tissue (r = 0.87, p = 0.003; r = 0.76, p = 0.003, respectively), and the HOMA-IR index, BMI and the amount of visceral adipose tissue (r = 0.86, p = 0.005; r = 0.84, p = 0.042, respectively), before and after MLD therapy. In overweight patients (group II), a statistically significant (p = 0.041) decrease in the hsCRP level by 2.9 mg/L and a significant (p = 0.050) decrease in the 2h-PG level by 12 mg/dL after the MLD therapy was detected. Moreover, in the group of obese patients (group III), a statistically significant (p = 0.013) decrease in HbA1c level by 0.2% after MLD therapy was demonstrated. Our results indicate that MLD may have a positive effect on selected biochemical parameters, with the most favorable changes in overweight patients. Further studies in a larger number of patients are warranted to confirm our findings, to test in-depth their mechanism, and to investigate clinical benefits of this alternative therapy in patients with abnormal body mass index.

Remodeling on adipocytic physiology of organophosphorus esters in mature adipocytes

The emerging endocrine disruption chemicals organophosphate esters (OPEs) pose high risk of metabolic disruption. However, limited information is available on physiological disturbance of OPEs on adipose, a major endocrine and metabolic organ. In this study, physiological change was investigated after exposing 3T3-L1fully differentiated adipocytes to six OPEs at non-cytotoxic concentrations. We found two chlorinated-OPEs (tris-(2-chloro-1-(chloromethyl) ethyl) phosphate (TDCPP) and tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCPP)) and two alkyl-OPEs (tributyl phosphate (TBP) and tris (2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBEP)) induced inflammation-like adipokines (chemoattractant protein 1 and interleukin-6), respectively. Increment of insulin-resistance-related hormones (resistin and leptin) were observed under TDCPP, TCPP, and TBP exposure. Functional and mechanistic investigation revealed that all of the compounds inhibited lipolysis at basal level through dephosphorylated HSL^ser563, the rate limiting enzyme of lipolysis. Triphenyl phosphate (TPhP), tricresyl phosphate (TCP), TDCPP, TBP and TBEP enhanced glucose uptake at both basal and insulin-stimulated status. We evidenced that impact was independent of the classical pIRS^ser639/pAKT^ser473 nor the insulin-independent AMPK pathway. The elevated mRNA of slc2a4 and its transcriptional factor LXRα may, at least partially, explain for the increase of glucose uptake. Given the focus within the endocrine disruption on glands, it would be prudent not to ignore endocrinal impact on adipocytes.

Different Seasonal Collections of Ficus carica L. Leaves Diversely Modulate Lipid Metabolism and Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Due to the high prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, adipogenesis dysfunction and metabolic disorders are common features in the elderly population. Thus, the identification of novel compounds with anti-adipogenic and lipolytic effects is highly desirable to reduce diabetes complications. Plants represent an important source of bioactive compounds. To date, the antidiabetic potential of several traditional plants has been reported, among which Ficus carica L. is one of the most promising. Considering that plant metabolome changes in response to a number of factors including seasonality, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether Ficus carica leaves extracts collected in autumn (FCa) and spring (FCs) differently modulate lipid metabolism and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The 1H-NMR profile of the extracts showed that FCs have a higher content of caffeic acid derivatives, glucose, and sucrose than FCa. In contrast, FCa showed a higher concentration of malic acid and furanocoumarins, identified as psoralen and bergapten. In vitro testing showed that only FCa treatments were able to significantly decrease the lipid content (Ctrl vs. FCa 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL; p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, FCa treatments were able to downregulate the transcriptional pathway of adipogenesis and insulin sensitivity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In more detail, FCa 80 μg/mL significantly decreased the gene expression of PPARγ (p < 0.05), C/EBPα (p < 0.05), Leptin (p < 0.0001), adiponectin (p < 0.05) and GLUT4 (p < 0.01). In conclusion, this study further supports an in-depth investigation of F. carica leaves extracts as a promising source of active compounds useful for targeting obesity and diabetes.

Mediators of Obesity Do Not Influence SARS-CoV-2 Infection or Activation of Primary Human Lung Microvascular Endothelial Cells In Vitro

Clinical observations have shown that obesity is associated with the severe outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection hallmarked by microvascular dysfunction in the lungs and other organs. Excess visceral fat and high systemic levels of adipose tissue (AT) derived mediators such as leptin and other adipokines have also been linked to endothelial dysfunction. Consequently, we hypothesized that AT-derived mediators may exacerbate microvascular dysfunction during of SARS-CoV-2 infection and tested this in a primary human lung microvascular endothelial (HLMVEC) cell model. Our results indicate that HLMVEC are not susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection since no expression of viral proteins and no newly produced virus was detected. In addition, exposure to the virus did not induce endothelial activation as evidenced by a lack of adhesion molecule, E-selectin, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and inflammatory cytokine IL-6 induction. Incubation of endothelial cells with the pro-inflammatory AT-derived mediator, leptin, prior to virus inoculation, did not alter the expression of endothelial SARS-CoV-2 entry receptors and did not alter their susceptibility to infection. Furthermore, it did not induce inflammatory activation of endothelial cells. To verify if the lack of activated phenotype in the presence of adipokines was not leptin-specific, we exposed endothelial cells to plasma obtained from critically ill obese COVID-19 patients. Plasma exposure did not result in E-selectin, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, or IL-6 induction. Together our results strongly suggest that aberrant inflammatory endothelial responses are not mounted by direct SARS-CoV-2 infection of endothelial cells, even in the presence of leptin and other mediators of obesity. Instead, endothelial activation associated with COVID-19 is likely a result of inflammatory responses initiated by other cells. Further studies are required to investigate the mechanisms regulating endothelial behavior in COVID-19 and the mechanisms driving severe disease in obese individuals.

Chokeberry (A. melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott)—A Natural Product for Metabolic Disorders?

Abnormal metabolism of substances in the body can result in metabolic disorders which include obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or cancer. Foods rich in antioxidants can help to prevent and treat various types of disorders. Chokeberry fruits are rich in polyphenols, especially cyanidins, and therefore, can show a beneficial health effect. The aim of this study was to summarize and systematize reports about the effects of chokeberry on various metabolic parameters. Studies from 2000 to 2021, published in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, were reviewed. The review of studies shows that chokeberry may have a positive effect in dyslipidemia and hypertension and may increase the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms. The anti-inflammatory effect, in turn, may translate into a reduction in the risk of metabolic disorders over a longer period of use. Changes in glucose levels were reported by studies in which the intervention lasted more than 10 weeks in patients with carbohydrate metabolism disorders. The effects of protecting the liver, inhibiting platelet aggregation, lowering uric acid levels, and having a protective effect on the kidneys require additional confirmation in human clinical trials. Consumption of chokeberry fruit did not impact on anthropometric measurements; however, it seems that chokeberry fruit can be recommended in many metabolic disorders due to the richness of bioactive ingredients.

Positive Effects of a Mediterranean Diet Supplemented with Almonds on Female Adipose Tissue Biology in Severe Obesity

It has been suggested that weight-loss-independent Mediterranean diet benefits on cardiometabolic health and diabetes prevention may be mediated, at least in part, through the modulation of white adipose tissue (WAT) biology. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effects of a dietary intervention based on the Mediterranean diet supplemented with almonds (MDSA) on the main features of obesity-associated WAT dysfunction. A total of 38 women with obesity were randomly assigned to a 3-month intervention with MDSA versus continuation of their usual dietary pattern. Subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) biopsies were obtained before and after the dietary intervention, and at the end of the study period, respectively. MDSA favored the abundance of small adipocytes in WAT. In SAT, the expression of angiogenesis genes increased after MDSA intervention. In VAT, the expression of genes implicated in adipogenesis, angiogenesis, autophagy and fatty acid usage was upregulated. In addition, a higher immunofluorescence staining for PPARG, CD31+ cells and M2-like macrophages and increased ADRB1 and UCP2 protein contents were found compared to controls. Changes in WAT correlated with a significant reduction in circulating inflammatory markers and LDL-cholesterol levels. These results support a protective effect of a Mediterranean diet supplemented with almonds on obesity-related WAT dysfunction.

Changes in adiponectin:leptin ratio among older adults with obesity following a 12-month exercise and diet intervention

Background

Excess adiposity is characterized by alterations in adipokine secretion such that circulating leptin concentrations are increased with reductions in adiponectin. An emerging biomarker for the assessment of this adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction is the adiponectin:leptin (AL) ratio. A low AL ratio may be suggestive of dysfunctional AT and, consequently, a heightened cardiometabolic disease risk. This ancillary study investigated the relationship between the AL ratio and cardiometabolic health among community-dwelling older adults with obesity, as well as the effects of a 12-month exercise and diet intervention on changes in the AL ratio.

Methods

Participants (n = 163, 70.2 ± 4.7 years, 38.0% male) were randomized to the exercise only group, exercise + nutrient-dense weight maintenance group (exercise + weight maintenance), or exercise + nutrient-dense caloric restriction of 500 kcal/d group (exercise + intentional weight loss) (clinicaltrials.gov #NCT00955903). Total and regional adiposity as determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), anthropometrics, and cardiometabolic biomarkers were assessed at baseline and 12 months.

Results

The AL ratio was significantly (p < 0.05) inversely correlated with body mass index, waist circumference, measures of adiposity, and insulin among all participants at baseline. Among females only, significant positive and inverse correlations were also observed between this ratio and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and the inflammatory biomarkers high sensitivity C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, respectively. While controlling for biological sex, a significant time by intervention group interaction effect (p < 0.05) was observed such that the AL ratio significantly increased from baseline to study completion among participants in the exercise + weight maintenance group and exercise + intentional weight loss group. Post hoc analysis revealed that the exercise + intentional weight loss group exhibited a significantly greater AL ratio at study completion compared to other groups (p < 0.05 all).

Conclusions

Results are in support of the AL ratio as a measure of AT dysfunction among older adults. Furthermore, results suggest that a 12-month exercise and diet intervention with intentional weight loss assists in improving the AL ratio in this population.

Central Obesity in Axial Spondyloarthritis: The Missing Link to Understanding Worse Outcomes in Women?

OBJECTIVE

To determine (1) the prevalence of central obesity in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and its effect on disease-related outcomes and (2) how this differs between sexes.

METHODS

Data were extracted from the Ankylosing Spondylitis Registry of Ireland. Patients with physical measurements for the calculation of anthropometric measures were included. BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were used to compare classifications of obesity. Comparison analyses based on sex and central obesity were carried out. Multivariate analysis examined the effects of these factors on the following patient-reported outcomes: the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL) questionnaire, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).

RESULTS

In total, 753 patients were included in the analysis. Of these patients, 29.6% (n = 223) were classified as obese based on their BMI, and 41.3% (n = 311) were classified as centrally obese according to the WHR. The prevalence of central obesity was significantly higher among women with axSpA compared to men (71.6% vs 29.9%, P < 0.01). Central obesity had a clear effect on patient outcomes, regardless of sex. Presence of central obesity was associated with significantly worse BASFI scores (P < 0.01), HAQ scores (P < 0.01), and ASQoL questionnaire scores (P = 0.01), with a nonsignificant trend toward worse BASDAI scores (P = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

There was a high prevalence of central obesity as assessed by the WHR in axSpA, most notably among women with axSpA. This modifiable comorbidity was significantly associated with worse quality of life, greater impairment of functional ability, and a trend toward worse disease activity. Regular use of the WHR to screen for central obesity as part of an axSpA assessment would provide an opportunity for prompt identification and intervention for at-risk patients.

The role of the androgen receptor in the pathogenesis of obesity and its utility as a target for obesity treatments

Obesity is associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis dysregulation in males. Here, we summarize recent evidence derived from clinical trials and studies in preclinical animal models regarding the role of androgen receptor (AR) signaling in the pathophysiology of males with obesity. We also discuss therapeutic strategies targeting the AR for the treatment of obesity and their limitations and provide insight into the future research necessary to advance this field.

Alternate Day Fasting Improves Endothelial Function in Type 2 Diabetic Mice: Role of Adipose-Derived Hormones

Introduction

Intermittent fasting, including alternate day fasting (ADF), has grown in popularity as it can produce clinically significant metabolic benefits and is often considered to be easier to adhere to than other types of diets such as chronic calorie restriction. However, the effects of ADF on diabetes-associated vascular dysfunction, and the role of adipose-derived hormones, i.e., adipokines, in mediating its effects, remain largely unknown.

Objective

We aimed to test the hypothesis that ADF protects against diabetes-associated endothelial dysfunction, at least partly through modulating adipokine profiles.

Methods

Control mice (m Lepr db ) and diabetic mice (Leprdb ) were treated with 12-weeks of ADF. Glucose metabolism, endothelial function, and adipokine profile were assessed.

Results

ADF reduced fasting blood glucose level and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and improved insulin sensitivity. ADF improved endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation of small mesenteric arteries (SMA) of Leprdb mice. The improvement in endothelial function was largely attenuated by incubation with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-NAME. These ADF-induced metabolic and vascular benefits were accompanied by increased circulating adiponectin. Adenovirus-mediated adiponectin supplementation improved endothelial function in Leprdb mice, supporting endothelial protective roles in diabetes-associated endothelial dysfunction. Protein tyrosine nitration is a post-translational modification that serves as a marker of oxidative stress. Nitrotyrosine protein levels in SMA and mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT) were elevated in Leprdb mice. ADF reduced nitrotyrosine protein in SMA, but not in MAT, of Leprdb mice.

Conclusion

ADF exerts metabolic and endothelial protective benefits. The improvement of endothelial function was partly mediated by increased adiponectin, representing an important mechanism for the beneficial vascular effects resulting from ADF.

Influence of Nutritional Status and Physical Exercise on Immune Response in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic alterations mostly related to visceral adiposity, which in turn promotes glucose intolerance and a chronic systemic inflammatory state, characterized by immune cell infiltration. Such immune system activation increases the risk of severe disease subsequent to viral infections. Strong correlations between elevated body mass index (BMI), type-2-diabetes and increased risk of hospitalization after pandemic influenza H1N1 infection have been described. Similarly, a correlation between elevated blood glucose level and SARS-CoV-2 infection severity and mortality has been described, indicating MetS as an important predictor of clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Adipose secretome, including two of the most abundant and well-studied adipokines, leptin and interleukin-6, is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and obesity-related low-grade inflammation. Similarly, skeletal muscle hormones—called myokines—released in response to physical exercise affect both metabolic homeostasis and immune system function. Of note, several circulating hormones originate from both adipose tissue and skeletal muscle and display different functions, depending on the metabolic context. This review aims to summarize recent data in the field of exercise immunology, investigating the acute and chronic effects of exercise on myokines release and immune system function.

Interleukin-17 Links Inflammatory Cross-Talks Between Comorbid Psoriasis and Atherosclerosis

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic, immune-mediated inflammatory disorder that is associated with a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have shown that psoriasis often coexists with atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of large and medium-sized arteries, which is a major cause of CVD. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying this comorbidity are not fully understood, clinical studies have shown that when interleukin (IL)-17A inhibitors effectively improve psoriatic lesions, atherosclerotic symptoms are also ameliorated in patients with both psoriasis and atherosclerosis. Also, IL-17A levels are highly expressed in the psoriatic lesions and atherosclerotic plaques. These clinical observations implicit that IL-17A could be a crucial link for psoriasis and atherosclerosis and IL-17A-induced inflammatory responses are the major contribution to the pathogenesis of comorbid psoriasis and atherosclerosis. In this review, the current literature related to epidemiology, genetic predisposition, and inflammatory mechanisms of comorbidity of psoriasis and atherosclerosis is summarized. We focus on the immunopathological effects of IL-17A in both diseases. The goal of this review is to provide the theoretical base for future preventing or treating psoriasis patients with atherosclerosis comorbidity. The current evidence support the notion that treatments targeting IL-17 seem to be hold some promise to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with psoriasis.

Role of Perinatal Biological Factors in Delayed Lactogenesis II Among Women With Pre-pregnancy Overweight and Obesity

BACKGROUND

Pre-pregnancy overweight and obesity are negatively associated with delayed onset of lactogenesis II (OL), but the mechanisms by which these conditions affect OL are still unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To identify biological factors related to pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity and determine whether these biological factors were associated with delayed OL in this population.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, we assigned 72 primipara to a pre-pregnancy overweight/obese group (n = 36) and a normal-weight group (n = 36). Blood samples were collected at 37 w of gestation and 48 h postpartum and assayed for levels of the following hormones: leptin, insulin, estradiol, prolactin (PRL), progesterone, and oxytocin. The primary outcome was timing of OL, estimated by maternal perception of breast fullness. We used linear-regression analysis to determine associations between hormones and delayed OL.

RESULTS

Sixty-three participants (87.5%) had complete data. OL occurred later in overweight/obese than in normal-weight women (p < .001). Compared with the normal-weight group, the overweight/obese group showed higher leptin levels at both times of observation and exhibited a slower drop in estrogen concentrations from 37 w of gestation to 48 h postpartum (all p < .05). After adjusting for confounding factors, leptin concentrations in late pregnancy and the magnitudes of decline in estrogen concentrations at 48 h postpartum were correlated with OL.

CONCLUSION

Women who were overweight/obese before pregnancy had elevated leptin levels in late pregnancy and a delayed decline in estrogen concentrations at 48 h postpartum. Both of these phenomena were related to delayed OL in this population.

The Role of the Adipokine Resistin in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Obesity is a civilization disease associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some malignancies. The results concerning the relationship between obesity and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) are inconclusive. The higher incidence of neoplasms in obese subjects has led to the development of the adipokine hypothesis. Omental adipocyte cells interact with cancer cells, promoting their migration and metastasis via the secretion of adipokines, growth factors, and hormones. One of the adipokines is resistin. It was shown in vitro that resistin stimulates the growth and differentiation of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, it increases the level of angiogenesis factors, e.g., matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF). Additionally, resistin induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness in EOC cell lines. A positive correlation has been shown between a higher level of resistin expression and the stage of histological differentiation of EOC or the occurrence of lymph node metastases. In addition, the overexpression of resistin has been found to act as an independent factor determining disease-free survival as well as overall survival in EOC patients. Growing evidence supports the finding that resistin plays an important role in some mechanisms leading to the progression of EOC, though this issue still requires further research.

Obesity and Dyslipidemia Synergistically Exacerbate Psoriatic Skin Inflammation

Patients with psoriasis are frequently complicated with metabolic syndrome; however, it is not fully understood how obesity and dyslipidemia contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis. To investigate the mechanisms by which obesity and dyslipidemia exacerbate psoriasis using murine models and neonatal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs), we used wild-type and Apoe-deficient dyslipidemic mice, and administered a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to induce obesity. Imiquimod was applied to the ear for 5 days to induce psoriatic dermatitis. To examine the innate immune responses of NHEKs, we cultured and stimulated NHEKs using IL-17A, TNF-α, palmitic acid, and leptin. We found that obesity and dyslipidemia synergistically aggravated psoriatic dermatitis associated with increased gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Treatment of NHEKs with palmitic acid and leptin amplified pro-inflammatory responses in combination with TNF-α and IL-17A. Additionally, pretreatment with palmitic acid and leptin enhanced IL-17A-mediated c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation. These results revealed that obesity and dyslipidemia synergistically exacerbate psoriatic skin inflammation, and that metabolic-disorder-associated inflammatory factors, palmitic acid, and leptin augment the activation of epidermal keratinocytes. Our results emphasize that management of concomitant metabolic disorders is essential for preventing disease exacerbation in patients with psoriasis.

Effects of aerobic exercise on fibroblast growth factor 21 in overweight and obesity. A systematic review

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has been suggested to improve metabolism during aerobic exercise in obesity. However, the variability of exercise interventions gives rise to discrepancies in the field. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the available literature regarding the effects of aerobic exercise on FGF21 in the context of overweight and obesity. Our search included original articles published between 2009 and November 2021 found in PubMed, Science Direct, and Medline. Clinical and preclinical studies were included. Studies, where subjects or animals presented with other conditions (e.g., cancer, stroke), were excluded. From an initial 43 studies, 19 (clinical studies = 9; preclinical studies = 10) were eligible for inclusion in this review. The main findings were that acute exercise tended to increase circulatory levels of FGF21. In contrast, chronic exercise programs (≥4 weeks) had the opposite effect along with inducing mRNA and protein increases of FGF receptors and β-klotho in adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle. In conclusion, both clinical and preclinical studies showed that aerobic exercise exerts changes in circulatory and tissue FGF21, along with its receptors and co-receptor. Future research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms, along with the physiological and clinical implications of these changes.

Biological Determinants of Metabolic Syndrome in Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue from Severely Obese Women

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of the most dangerous heart attack risk factors: diabetes or raised fasting plasma glucose, abdominal obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The goal of this study is to compare the state of the main features of obesity-associated white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction in 66 women with severe obesity without (MetS-) or with MetS (MetS+). Fat cell area, adipocyte size distribution and histological fibrosis were analysed in visceral (VAT) and abdominal subcutaneous WAT (SAT) in 33 age- and BMI-matched pairs of MetS- and MetS+ subjects. The mRNA expression of 93 genes implicated in obesity-associated WAT dysfunction was analysed by RT-qPCR in both fat depots. MetS+ females showed higher adipocyte hypertrophy in both fat depots and increased fibrosis and expression of macrophage and hypoxia markers in SAT. Transcriptional data suggest increased fatty acid oxidation in SAT and impaired thermogenesis and extracellular matrix remodelling in VAT from MetS+ subjects. A sPLS-DA model, including SAT expression of PPARA and LEPR genes identified MetS with an AUC = 0.87. Despite equal age, BMI and body composition, MetS+ females display morphological and transcriptional differences in both WAT depots, especially in SAT. These factors may contribute to the transition to MetS.

Review of Novel Potential Insulin Resistance Biomarkers in PCOS Patients—The Debate Is Still Open

Research on proteins and peptides that play roles in metabolic regulation, which may be considered potential insulin resistance markers in some medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), has recently gained in interest. PCOS is a common endocrine disorder associated with hyperandrogenemia and failure of ovulation, which is often accompanied by metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance. In this review, we focus on less commonly known peptides/proteins and investigate their role as potential biomarkers for insulin resistance in females affected by PCOS. We summarize studies comparing the serum fasting concentration of particular agents in PCOS individuals and healthy controls. Based on our analysis, we propose that, in the majority of studies, the levels of nesfastin-1, myonectin, omentin, neudesin were decreased in PCOS patients, while the levels of the other considered agents (e.g., preptin, gremlin-1, neuregulin-4, xenopsin-related peptide, xenin-25, and galectin-3) were increased. However, there also exist studies presenting contrary results; in particular, most data existing for lipocalin-2 are inconsistent. Therefore, further research is required to confirm those hypotheses, as well as to elucidate the involvement of these factors in PCOS-related metabolic complications.

Favourable Changes in C-Peptide, C-Reactive Protein and Lipid Profile, and Improved Quality of Life in Patients with Abnormal Body Mass Index after the Use of Manual Lymphatic Drainage: A Case Series with Three-Month Follow-Up

Aim: to try to assess the effect of manual lymphatic drainage on the biochemical parameters and quality of life of patients with abnormal body mass index. The study included three women, average age 46 years (patient 1 with normal body weight as a control; patient 2: overweight; patient 3 with class 2 obesity). After qualification, physiotherapeutic interview and examination was carried out; the concentrations of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), C-peptide, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), lipid profile, and quality of life were also examined. Additionally, in patients with abnormal body mass index, biochemical parameters were monitored for 3 months. Each patient underwent 10 manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) therapy sessions, three times a week for 30 min. In the overweight patient (patient 2), a decrease in the concentration of C-peptide, hsCRP and triglycerides was observed after the series of MLD therapy. An improvement in the quality of life, intestinal motility, and a reduction in the frequency of flatulence were also noted. Moreover, after the therapy, patient 2 reported better sleep and increased vitality. In contrast, in patient 3 (with grade 2 obesity), a decrease in triglyceride levels, but not other biomarkers, was detected after the series of MDL therapy. Additionally, in patient 3, an improvement in the quality of life, an improvement in intestinal peristalsis, and reduction of menstrual pain were observed after MLD therapy. For comparison, in a patient with a normal body weight as a control (patient 1), there were no changes in biochemical parameters or improvement in the quality of life after MLD therapy. Our preliminary research indicates improvement of the concentration C-peptide, lipid profile, a reduction in the inflammation, and improved quality of life in patients with abnormal body mass index after MLD therapy. However, more studies are needed to elucidate the effectiveness of MLD therapy in patients with varying degrees of abnormal body mass index, i.e., from overweight to obesity.

Interplay between Inflammaging, Frailty and Nutrition in Covid-19: Preventive and Adjuvant Treatment Perspectives

As humans age, their immune system undergoes modifications, including a low-grade inflammatory status called inflammaging. These changes are associated with a loss of physical and immune resilience, amplifying the risk of being malnourished and frail. Under the COVID-19 scenario, inflammaging increases the susceptibility to poor prognostics. We aimed to bring the current concepts of inflammaging and its relationship with frailty and COVID-19 prognostic; highlight the importance of evaluating the nutritional risk together with frailty aiming to monitor older adults in COVID-19 scenario; explore some compounds with potential to modulate inflammaging in perspective to manage the COVID-19 infection. Substances such as probiotics and senolytics can help reduce the high inflammatory status. Also, the periodic evaluation of nutrition risk and frailty will allow interventions, assuring the appropriate care.

Ginsenoside Rb1 Protects Against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Regulating the Adipocytokine Pathway

PURPOSE

Obesity and diabetes are often accompanied by chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, which lead to complications such as diabetic cardiomyopathy. Ginsenoside Rb1 has been used to treat diabetes and obesity and reduce inflammation as well as risk of heart diseases. However, the role of ginsenoside Rb1 in treating diabetic cardiomyopathy remains unclear.

METHODS

Diabetic mice were administered ginsenoside Rb1 for 12 weeks, and their body weight, body fat, and blood glucose levels as well as and serum insulin, lipids, and adipocytokine levels were assessed. Lipid accumulation, pathological morphology of the adipose tissue, liver, and heart were examined. Western blot and qRT-PCR were performed to investigate the molecular changes in response to ginsenoside Rb1 treatment.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside Rb1 treatment significantly reduced body weight and body fat, attenuated hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, and ameliorated insulin resistance and abnormal levels of adipocytokines in diabetic mice. In addition, lipid accumulation and inflammation reduced while the functions of heart improved in the ginsenoside Rb1-treated group. Furthermore, antioxidant function improved in the ginsenoside Rb1-treated diabetic hearts. PCR and Western blotting analyses revealed that the lipid-lowering effect of ginsenoside Rb1 and the resulting improvement of cardiac function could be attributed to the adipocytokine pathway, which promoted energy homeostasis and alleviated cardiac dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Ginsenoside Rb1 lowered lipid levels in a adipocytokine-mediated manner and attenuated hyperglycemia/hyperlipidemia-induced oxidative stress, hypertrophy, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes.

Metabolic Implications of Immune Checkpoint Proteins in Cancer

Expression of immune checkpoint proteins restrict immunosurveillance in the tumor microenvironment; thus, FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitor drugs, specifically PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, promote a cytotoxic antitumor immune response. Aside from inflammatory signaling, immune checkpoint proteins invoke metabolic reprogramming that affects immune cell function, autonomous cancer cell bioenergetics, and patient response. Therefore, this review will focus on the metabolic alterations in immune and cancer cells regulated by currently approved immune checkpoint target proteins and the effect of costimulatory receptor signaling on immunometabolism. Additionally, we explore how diet and the microbiome impact immune checkpoint blockade therapy response. The metabolic reprogramming caused by targeting these proteins is essential in understanding immune-related adverse events and therapeutic resistance. This can provide valuable information for potential biomarkers or combination therapy strategies targeting metabolic pathways with immune checkpoint blockade to enhance patient response.

Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) and Organokines: What Is Now and What Will Be in the Future

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by steatosis, lobular inflammation, and enlargement of the diameter of hepatocytes (ballooning hepatocytes), with or without fibrosis. It affects 20% of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Due to liver dysfunction and the numerous metabolic changes that commonly accompany the condition (obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome), the secretion of organokines is modified, which may contribute to the pathogenesis or progression of the disease. In this sense, this study aimed to perform a review of the role of organokines in NASH. Thus, by combining descriptors such as NASH, organokines, oxidative stress, inflammation, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, a search was carried out in the EMBASE, MEDLINE-PubMed, and Cochrane databases of articles published in the last ten years. Insulin resistance, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, fructose, and intestinal microbiota were factors identified as participating in the genesis and progression of NASH. Changes in the pattern of organokines secretion (adipokines, myokines, hepatokines, and osteokines) directly or indirectly contribute to aggravating the condition or compromise homeostasis. Thus, further studies involving skeletal muscle, adipose, bone, and liver tissue as endocrine organs are essential to better understand the modulation of organokines involved in the pathogenesis of NASH to advance in the treatment of this disease.

Obesity-related kidney disease: Beyond hypertension and insulin-resistance

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes considerable morbidity, mortality, and health expenditures worldwide. Obesity is a significant risk factor for CKD development, partially explained by the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension in obese patients. However, adipocytes also possess potent endocrine functions, secreting a myriad of cytokines and adipokines that contribute to insulin resistance and induce a chronic low-grade inflammatory state thereby damaging the kidney. CKD development itself is associated with various metabolic alterations that exacerbate adipose tissue dysfunction and insulin resistance. This adipose-renal axis is a major focus of current research, given the rising incidence of CKD and obesity. Cellular senescence is a biologic hallmark of aging, and age is another significant risk factor for obesity and CKD. An elevated senescent cell burden in adipose tissue predicts renal dysfunction in animal models, and senotherapies may alleviate these phenotypes. In this review, we discuss the direct mechanisms by which adipose tissue contributes to CKD development, emphasizing the potential clinical importance of such pathways in augmenting the care of CKD.

Cushing's syndrome is associated with altered adipokine profile

INTRODUCTION

Adipokines are signaling molecules involved in the integration of metabolism. Changes in their concentrations were observed in obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, as well as endocrine disorders. Cushing's syndrome is associated with metabolic dysregulation, but the significance of adipokines in this entity and related complications is largely unknown. The aim of our study was to determine the concentrations of adipokines: fetuin A, fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) and retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) in Cushing's syndrome and to assess their relation to established cardiovascular and diabetes risk markers.

METHODS

We examined 21 subjects with Cushing's syndrome and 24 healthy controls in a cross-sectional manner. Venous blood samples were analysed for adipokines, cortisol, adrenocorticotrophin, glucose, insulin, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides, cholesterol fractions, thyrotropin and free thyroid hormones concentrations. Patients' body mass index (BMI) was evaluated, homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance and Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) were calculated.

RESULTS

We found that the concentration of fetuin A was lower, while FABP4 and RBP4 concentrations were higher in Cushing's syndrome compared to controls [156.4 ± 60.0 µg/ml vs 260.7 ± 49.6 µg/ml; 79.8 (35.2-156.1) ng/ml vs 27.9 (17.1-36.7) ng/ml and 34 (30-37.7) mg/l vs 25.8 (23.6-27.7) mg/l, respectively]. Fetuin A correlated inversely, while FABP4 and RBP4 positively, with the concentrations of urinary free cortisol and adrenocorticotrophin. Fetuin A was positively related to LDL-cholesterol, and negatively to SCORE and HbA1c. FABP4 was associated positively with BMI, HbA1c and triglycerides, while RBP4 correlated positively with triglycerides and systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Adipokines' concentrations change in hypercortisolism. Further research is needed to ascertain whether adipokines are involved in the development of metabolic complications accompanying Cushing's syndrome or secondarily reflect metabolic dysregulation.

Association Between Novel Pro- and Anti- Inflammatory Adipocytokines in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Background and aims

Novel pro- and anti-inflammatory adipocytokines affect inflammation, energy metabolism, and insulin signaling. However, their role in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) development is unclear. We evaluated the diagnostic and risk predictive value of such adipocytokines for ACS.

Methods

We enrolled 168 consecutive inpatients with suspected ACS and detected serum PLIN1, PLIN2, PLIN5, CTRP6, CTRP7, CTRP11, WISP1, FAM19A5, TNF-α, and adiponectin levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and Spearman's test were used to assess risk factors for ACS and correlations between serum adipocytokines and continuous variables, respectively.

Results

Serum levels of the adipocytokines differed between ACS and Non-ACS groups (p < 0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, serum PLIN1, PLIN2, PLIN5, CTRP6, CTRP7, CTRP11, WISP1, and FAM19A5 levels were independently associated with ACS (p < 0.05). Increasing tertiles of serum PLIN1, PLIN2, CTRP7, CTRP11, and WISP1 levels increased the ACS risk, which decreased gradually with increasing PLIN5 and CTRP6 tertiles (p for trend <0.05). Serum PLIN1, PLIN5, CTRP6, CTRP7, CTRP11, WISP1, and FAM19A5 levels correlated with ACS severity.

Conclusions

PLIN1, PLIN2, CTRP7, CTRP11, and WISP1 were identified as independent ACS risk factors, whereas PLIN5, CTRP6, and FAM19A5 were independent protective factors for ACS. These serum adipocytokines are novel potential clinical biomarkers of ACS.

Short histological kaleidoscope - recent findings in histology. Part I

This article is a review of new advances in histology, concerning either classification or structure of different tissular elements (basement membrane, hemidesmosomes, urothelium, glandular epithelia, adipose tissue, astrocytes), and various organs' constituents (blood-brain barrier, human dental cementum, tubarial salivary glands, hepatic stellate cells, pineal gland, fibroblasts of renal interstitium, Leydig testicular cells, ovarian hilar cells), as well as novel biotechnological techniques (tissue engineering in angiogenesis), recently introduced.

Association of serum uromodulin with adipokines in dependence of type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The renal tubular glycoprotein uromodulin is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, but the underlying mechanisms are elusive. We investigated the association of serum uromodulin with adipokines and tested the effect modification by diabetes status.

METHODS

The associations of serum uromodulin with eight adipokines were assessed in 795-1080 participants of the KORA F4 study aged 62-81 years using linear regression models adjusted for sex, age, BMI, estimated glomerular filtration rate and diabetes. Significant associations were assessed for effect modification by diabetes status. We further tested using logistic regression whether adjustment for the significant adipokines affected the association of uromodulin with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

Serum uromodulin was inversely associated with chemerin and retinol-binding protein-4 after multivariable adjustment (p < 0.001) and Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. No significant association was observed between uromodulin and the other adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, secreted frizzled-related protein 5, progranulin, omentin-1 and vaspin) after correcting for multiple testing. The association of uromodulin with chemerin and retinol-binding protein-4 was stronger in participants with type 2 diabetes than in participants without diabetes (p for interaction < 0.05). However, inclusion of chemerin and retinol-binding protein-4 in logistic regression models did not attenuate the association of serum uromodulin with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum uromodulin was inversely associated with the predominantly pro-inflammatory adipokines chemerin and retinol-binding protein-4. The associations were stronger in participants with type 2 diabetes compared to participants without diabetes. However, the association of serum uromodulin with type 2 diabetes was independent of chemerin and retinol-binding protein-4.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Relationship between Obesity and Male Infertility

In recent decades, the worldwide prevalence of obesity has risen dramatically and is currently estimated to be around 20%. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of comorbidities and premature mortality. Several studies have shown that obesity negatively impacts male fertility through various mechanisms. This review aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms through which obesity impairs male reproduction, including obesity-associated hypogonadism and its effects on spermatogenesis, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. Obesity negatively impacts both conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters, and it also induces epigenetic changes that can be transferred to offspring. Moreover, obesity-related diseases are linked to a dysregulation of adipocyte function and micro-environmental inflammatory processes. The dysregulated adipokines significantly influence insulin signaling, and they may also have a detrimental effect on testicular function. Sirtuins can also play an important role in inflammatory and metabolic responses in obese patients. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that are involved in obesity-induced male infertility could increase our ability to identify novel targets for the prevention and treatment of obesity and its related consequences.

Resistance training mitigates hepato-cardiac changes and muscle mitochondrial protein reductions in rats with diet-induced obesity

Aim

To investigate the effect of resistance training (RT) on hepatocardiovascular and muscle mitochondrial parameters in rats that were fed a high-calorie diet for 12 weeks.

Main methods

The animals were divided into four groups: control (C), exercise (E), obese (O), and obese plus exercise (OE). Group E and OE rats performed resistance training by climbing on a vertical ladder with load attached to the end of the tail (1×/day, 3×/week, for 12 weeks). Group O and OE rats were fed a high-calorie diet containing chow and a cafeteria diet for 12 weeks. Under anesthesia, the heart and liver were removed for histopathological analysis, and the gastrocnemius muscle was removed for Western blotting.

Key findings

Group O rats were heavier, with increased fat mass, elevated fasting glycemia, and total triglycerides, and exhibited a significant number of Kupffer cells and diffuse steatosis in the liver. Group O rats also showed increased thickness of the right ventricle, septum, and pulmonary artery. All of these parameters were attenuated by RT. PGC1-α protein levels were increased in both exercise groups. The protein levels of OXPHOS complexes III, IV, and V were reduced in Group O, while RT prevented this alteration.

Significance

RT exerts a protective effect against hepato-cardiac alterations and prevents changes in the muscle mitochondrial protein profile induced by a high-calorie diet.

Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Adipose Tissue Biology

Bariatric surgery (BS) procedures are actually the most effective intervention to help subjects with severe obesity achieve significant and sustained weight loss. White adipose tissue (WAT) is increasingly recognized as the largest endocrine organ. Unhealthy WAT expansion through adipocyte hypertrophy has pleiotropic effects on adipocyte function and promotes obesity-associated metabolic complications. WAT dysfunction in obesity encompasses an altered adipokine secretome, unresolved inflammation, dysregulated autophagy, inappropriate extracellular matrix remodeling and insufficient angiogenic potential. In the last 10 years, accumulating evidence suggests that BS can improve the WAT function beyond reducing the fat depot sizes. The causal relationships between improved WAT function and the health benefits of BS merits further investigation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the short-, medium- and long-term outcomes of BS on the WAT composition and function.

Nuciferine, an active ingredient derived from lotus leaf, lights up the way for the potential treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases

Obesity, is an increasingly global public health problem associated complications. However, the proven anti-obesity agents are inefficient with adverse side effects; hence attention is being paid to novel drugs from natural resources to manage obesity and obesity-related diseases. Nuciferine (NF) is a high-quality aporphine alkaloid present in lotus leaf. Unlike the chemical drugs, NF elicits anti-obesity, anti-dyslipidemia, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypouricemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects, and affinity to neural receptors, and protection against obesity-related diseases. The underlying mechanism of NF includes the regulation of targeted molecules and pathways related to metabolism, inflammation, and cancer and modulation of Ca²⁺ flux, gut microbiota, and ferroptosis. Besides, the clinical application, availability, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutics, and security of NF have been established, highlighting the potential of developing NF as an anti-obesity agent. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive summarization, which sheds light on future research in NF.

Current Status and Future Perspectives on Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin: Focus on Metabolic-Syndrome-Dependent Organ Dysfunction

Metabolic syndrome and its associated disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus are globally prevalent. Different molecules showing therapeutic potential are currently available for the management of metabolic syndrome, although their efficacy has often been compromised by their poor bioavailability and side effects. Studies have been carried out on medicinal plant extracts for the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome. In this regard, isolated pure compounds have shown promising efficacy for the management of metabolic syndrome, both in preclinical and clinical settings. Apigenin, a natural bioactive flavonoid widely present in medicinal plants, functional foods, vegetables and fruits, exerts protective effects in models of neurological disorders and cardiovascular diseases and most of these effects are attributed to its antioxidant action. Various preclinical and clinical studies carried out so far show a protective effect of apigenin against metabolic syndrome. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on both in vitro and in vivo evidence related to the promising antioxidant role of apigenin in cardioprotection, neuroprotection and renoprotection, and to its beneficial action in metabolic-syndrome-dependent organ dysfunction. We also provide evidence on the potential of apigenin in the prevention and/or treatment of metabolic syndrome, analysing the potential and limitation of its therapeutic use.

Estrogen-Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer in Postmenopausal Women: The Role of Body Composition and Physical Exercise

Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and the most common cause of cancer-related death. To date, it is still a challenge to estimate the magnitude of the clinical impact of physical activity (PA) on those parameters producing significative changes in future BC risk and disease progression. However, studies conducted in recent years highlight the role of PA not only as a protective factor for the development of ER+ breast cancer but, more generally, as a useful tool in the management of BC treatment as an adjuvant to traditional therapies. In this review, we focused our attention on data obtained from human studies analyzing, at each level of disease prevention (i.e., primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary), the positive impact of PA/exercise in ER+ BC, a subtype representing approximately 70% of all BC diagnoses. Moreover, given the importance of estrogen receptors and body composition (i.e., adipose tissue) in this subtype of BC, an overview of their role will also be made throughout this review.

Adipose Tissue and Biological Factors. Possible Link between Lymphatic System Dysfunction and Obesity

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised obesity as one of the top ten threats to human health. Obesity is not only a state of abnormally increased adipose tissue in the body, but also of an increased release of biologically active metabolites. Moreover, obesity predisposes the development of metabolic syndrome and increases the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), increases the risk of developing insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension and cancer. The lymphatic system is a one-directional network of thin-walled capillaries and larger vessels covered by a continuous layer of endothelial cells that provides a unidirectional conduit to return filtered arterial and tissue metabolites towards the venous circulation. Recent studies have shown that obesity can markedly impair lymphatic function. Conversely, dysfunction in the lymphatic system may also be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. This review highlights the important findings regarding obesity related to lymphatic system dysfunction, including clinical implications and experimental studies. Moreover, we present the role of biological factors in the pathophysiology of the lymphatic system and we propose the possibility of a therapy supporting the function of the lymphatic system in the course of obesity.

High blood pressure levels and cardiovascular risk among Munduruku indigenous people

Objective:

to identify the risk factors associated with prehypertension and arterial hypertension among Munduruku indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon.

Method:

a cross-sectional study carried out with 459 Munduruku indigenous people selected by means of stratified random sampling. Sociodemographic variables, habits and lifestyles, anthropometric data, fasting glucose and lipid profiles were evaluated. An automatic device calibrated and validated to measure blood pressure was used. The analyses of the data collected were carried out in the R software, version 3.5.1. For continuous variables, the Kruskall-Wallis test was used; for the categorical ones, Fischer’s Exact. The significance level was set at 5% and p-value≤0.05.

Results:

the prevalence of altered blood pressure levels was 10.2% for values suggestive of hypertension and 4.1% for pre-hypertension. The risk of prehypertension among indigenous people was associated with being male (OR=1.65; 95% CI=0.65-4.21) and having a substantially increased waist circumference (OR=7.82; 95% CI=1.80-34.04). Regarding the risk for arterial hypertension, it was associated with age (OR=1.09; 95% CI=1.06-1.12), with increased waist circumference (OR=3.89; 95% CI=1.43-10, 54) and with substantially increased waist circumference (OR=5.46; 95% CI=1.78-16.75).

Conclusion:

among Munduruku indigenous people, men were more vulnerable to developing hypertension; age and increased waist circumference proved to be strong cardiovascular risk factors.

The Effect of Caloric Restriction with and without n-3 PUFA Supplementation on Bone Turnover Markers in Blood of Subjects with Abdominal Obesity: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial

Weight loss contributes to an increased risk of hip fracture, especially in postmenopausal women. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) supplementation could diminish the adverse effect of weight loss on bone health. The aim of this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel trial was to investigate the effect of caloric restriction and n-3 PUFA supplement intake on osteogenic markers (carboxylated osteocalcin (Gla-OC); procollagen I N-terminal propeptide (PINP)), as well as a bone resorption marker (C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I)) in a serum of 64 middle aged individuals (BMI 25-40 kg/m²) with abdominal obesity. Bone remodeling, metabolic and inflammatory parameters and adipokines were determined before and after 3 months of an isocaloric diet (2300-2400 kcal/day) or a low-calorie diet (1200 kcal/day for women and 1500 kcal/day for men) along with n-3 PUFA (1.8 g/day) or placebo capsules. CTX-I and adiponectin concentrations were increased following 7% weight loss independently of supplement use. Changes in CTX-I were positively associated with changes in adiponectin level (rho = 0.25, p = 0.043). Thus, an increase in serum adiponectin caused by body weight loss could adversely affect bone health. N-3 PUFAs were without effect.

Adipokines and C-reactive protein as indicators of MetS presence in obese Greek children: The Healthy Growth Study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) occurs in a proportion of overweight and obese children and increases their future risk of serious health complications, even in adolescence and young adulthood. We aimed to explore the role of certain adipokines and inflammatory markers in identifying children with MetS.

METHODS

This study is a secondary analysis of data coming from the Healthy Growth Study, a cross-sectional study conducted with schoolchildren in Greece. The present study included data from a representative sample of 1376 schoolchildren (mean age: 11.19 ± 0.66 years), recruited from 77 primary schools in four large regions in Greece. Anthropometric, clinical and biochemical data were recorded. Children's body weight status and the presence of MetS were determined and their correlation with the serum levels of leptin, adiponectin and C-reactive protein (CRP) was explored.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the MetS was 21.7 % and 3.7 % in obese and overweight children, respectively. The balance of adipokines was disturbed in obesity, as the serum level of adiponectin decreased as body weight increased, while the serum level of leptin increased. The serum level of the inflammatory marker CRP increased significantly as body weight increased. Discriminant analysis showed that these factors could distinguish the children with MetS as compared to children with no MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

In the under study Mediterranean childhood population, monitoring of the levels of adipokines and CRP could identify the overweight and obese children with MetS. Appropriate individualized dietary and lifestyle interventions can be applied in these children to prevent health complications associated with MetS.

Molecular and Pathophysiological Links between Metabolic Disorders and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Despite considerable epidemiological evidence indicating comorbidity between metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as common pathophysiological features shared by these two categories of diseases, the relationship between their pathogenesis at molecular levels are not well described. Intestinal barrier dysfunction is a characteristic pathological feature of IBD, which also plays causal roles in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory metabolic disorders. Increased intestinal permeability is associated with a pro-inflammatory response of the intestinal immune system, possibly leading to the development of both diseases. In addition, dysregulated interactions between the gut microbiota and the host immunity have been found to contribute to immune-mediated disorders including the two diseases. In connection with disrupted gut microbial composition, alterations in gut microbiota-derived metabolites have also been shown to be closely related to the pathogeneses of both diseases. Focusing on these prominent pathophysiological features observed in both metabolic disorders and IBD, this review highlights and summarizes the molecular risk factors that may link between the pathogeneses of the two diseases, which is aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying their comorbidity.

Association between inflammatory markers and serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities in the general population: a cross-sectional study

Background

Recent studies focused on modulating factors of paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity. In some studies the association between pro-inflammatory markers and PON1 activity was examined, but so far no population-based investigations on this issue have been conducted. The present study investigated the relationships between the pro-inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, leptin, interleukin (IL)-6, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and paraoxonase and arylesterase, two hydrolytic activities of PON1, in the population-based Bavarian Food Consumption Survey II.

Methods

Based on 504 participants (217 men, 287 women), the relationship between the pro-inflammatory markers and the outcomes paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were investigated using multivariable linear models.

Results

Circulating plasma levels of leptin (P-value < 0.0001), hs-CRP (P-value = 0.031) and IL-6 (P-value = 0.045) were significantly non-linearly associated with arylesterase activity. Leptin levels were also significantly associated with paraoxonase activity (P-value = 0.024) independently from confounding factors, including high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. With increasing levels of these inflammatory parameters, arylesterase and paraoxonase activities increased; however, at higher levels (> 75th percentile) the activities reached a plateau or even decreased somewhat. After Bonferroni-Holm correction, only leptin remained non-linearly but significantly associated with arylesterase activity (adjusted overall P-value < 0.0001). Neither age nor sex nor obesity modified the associations. No association was found between TNF-α and paraoxonase or arylesterase activity.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that in persons with very high levels of inflammation, PON1 activity may be impaired, a fact that might subsequently be accompanied by a higher risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Whether or not the measurement of PON1 activity in combination with a lipid profile and certain inflammatory markers could improve the prediction of cardiometabolic diseases in middle-aged individuals from the general population should be evaluated in clinical studies.