Serum lipid profile in psoriatic patients: correlation between vascular adhesion protein 1 and lipoprotein (a)

Flavonoid compounds and their synergistic effects: Promising approaches for the prevention and treatment of psoriasis with emphasis on keratinocytes - A systematic and mechanistic review

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disorder, causes rapid and excessive skin cell growth due to immune system dysfunction. Numerous studies have shown that flavonoids have anti-psoriatic effects by modulating various molecular mechanisms involved in inflammation, cytokine production, keratinocyte proliferation, and more. This study reviewed experimental data reported in scientific literature and used network analysis to identify the potential biological roles of flavonoids' targets in treating psoriasis. 947 records from Web of Sciences, ScienceDirect database, Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane library were reviewed without limitations until June 26, 2023. 66 articles were included in the systematic review. The ten genes with the highest scores, including interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12A, IL-1β, IL-6, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Janus kinase 2 (JAK 2), Jun N-terminal kinase (JUN), Proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC), Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA), and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), were identified as the hub genes. KEGG pathway analysis identified connections related to inflammation and autoimmune responses, which are key characteristics of psoriasis. IL-6, STAT3, and JUN's presence in both hub and enrichment genes suggests their important role in flavonoid's effect on psoriasis. This comprehensive study highlights how flavonoids can target biological processes in psoriasis, especially when combined for enhanced effectiveness.

Lipoprotein (a)-Related Inflammatory Imbalance: A Novel Horizon for the Development of Atherosclerosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The primary objective of this review is to explore the pathophysiological roles and clinical implications of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in the context of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We seek to understand how Lp(a) contributes to inflammation and arteriosclerosis, aiming to provide new insights into the mechanisms of ASCVD progression.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent research highlights Lp(a) as an independent risk factor for ASCVD. Studies show that Lp(a) not only promotes the inflammatory processes but also interacts with various cellular components, leading to endothelial dysfunction and smooth muscle cell proliferation. The dual role of Lp(a) in both instigating and, under certain conditions, mitigating inflammation is particularly noteworthy. This review finds that Lp(a) plays a complex role in the development of ASCVD through its involvement in inflammatory pathways. The interplay between Lp(a) levels and inflammatory responses highlights its potential as a target for therapeutic intervention. These insights could pave the way for novel approaches in managing and preventing ASCVD, urging further investigation into Lp(a) as a therapeutic target.

Association between psoriasis and serum apolipoprotein A1 and B: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Psoriasis has been linked to dyslipidemia. However, the magnitude of the association between psoriasis and serum apolipoproteins A1 and B remains unclear.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for eligible studies published before August 10, 2023. Data were pooled using Stata software. We adopted a random-effects model for the meta-analysis. Additionally, we conducted subgroup analyses of the studies according to the psoriasis type and matched body mass index (BMI).

Results

Seventeen studies involving 2467 participants were included. Psoriasis was associated with decreased serum apolipoprotein A1 (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -9.05, P < 0.001) and increased serum apolipoprotein B (WMD = 11.68, P < 0.001). In subgroup analysis after matching BMI, the findings showing an association of psoriasis with serum apolipoprotein A1 (WMD = -14.07, P < 0.001) and serum apolipoprotein B (WMD = 13.07, P < 0.001) were consistent with the overall results. The subgroup analysis for the presence or absence of psoriatic arthritis showed that serum apolipoprotein A1 was significantly decreased in psoriasis with (WMD = -11.29, P < 0.001) and without arthritis (WMD = -8.69, P = 0.039); whereas serum apolipoprotein B was significantly increased in psoriasis with (WMD = 13.57, P < 0.001) and without arthritis (WMD = 9.21, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that psoriasis is associated with decreased serum apolipoprotein A1 and increased serum apolipoprotein B levels compared with healthy controls.

Metabolic Syndrome Screening and Nutritional Status of Patients with Psoriasis: A Scoping Review

Background: Patients with plaque psoriasis have an increased risk of metabolic syndrome. However, no studies have assessed the nutritional status or screening methods of this population. Aims: This review aimed to identify and summarise metabolic syndrome screening criteria and the tools/methods used in nutrition assessment in patients with plaque psoriasis. Data synthesis: PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid and Scopus were searched from inception to March 2023, following the Arkensey and O'Malley framework, to identify articles that report nutritional assessment methods/tools and metabolic screening criteria. Twenty-one studies were identified. Overall, these studies used four different screening criteria to define metabolic syndrome. Patients with psoriasis had a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and had a poor nutritional status compared to controls. However, only anthropometric measures such as weight, height and waist circumference were employed to determine the nutritional status. Only two studies assessed the vitamin D status. Conclusions: Patients with psoriasis have a poor nutritional status, and they are at risk of nutrient deficiencies. However, these health aspects are not routinely assessed and may increase the risk of malnutrition among these patients. Therefore, additional assessments, such as body composition and dietary assessment, are needed to determine the nutritional status to provide a suitable intervention.

Lipoprotein(a) in Atherosclerotic Diseases: From Pathophysiology to Diagnosis and Treatment

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol-like particle bound to apolipoprotein(a). Increased Lp(a) levels are an independent, heritable causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as they are largely determined by variations in the Lp(a) gene (LPA) locus encoding apo(a). Lp(a) is the preferential lipoprotein carrier for oxidized phospholipids (OxPL), and its role adversely affects vascular inflammation, atherosclerotic lesions, endothelial function and thrombogenicity, which pathophysiologically leads to cardiovascular (CV) events. Despite this crucial role of Lp(a), its measurement lacks a globally unified method, and, between different laboratories, results need standardization. Standard antilipidemic therapies, such as statins, fibrates and ezetimibe, have a mediocre effect on Lp(a) levels, although it is not yet clear whether such treatments can affect CV events and prognosis. This narrative review aims to summarize knowledge regarding the mechanisms mediating the effect of Lp(a) on inflammation, atherosclerosis and thrombosis and discuss current diagnostic and therapeutic potentials.

Current evidence on the role of lipid lowering drugs in the treatment of psoriasis

Background

Abnormal lipid distribution is observed in patients with psoriasis, which increases their risk for atherosclerosis. Lipid-lowering drugs have a certain curative effect in the treatment of psoriasis, but there is no relevant evidence-based medical evaluation.

Objective

The purpose of this systematic evaluation was to assess the efficacy, safety, and potential mechanisms of action of lipid-lowering drugs for the treatment of psoriasis.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Clinical Trial, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Wanfang Database were searched for relevant articles from inception to 31 December 2021. The RevMan 5.3 and Cochrane risk-of-bias tool were used for data analysis and risk assessment, respectively. The psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score is the primary outcome indicator in clinical studies. Based on preclinical studies, we elucidated and mapped the action mechanisms of lipid-lowering drugs in the treatment of psoriasis.

Results

The study included eight randomized controlled studies, four single-arm studies, and four in vitro studies. The results showed that lipid-lowering drugs, particularly statins, administered both orally and topically, can significantly improve psoriatic skin lesions and reduce the PASI scores [standardized mean difference, (SMD): −0.94; 95% CI: [−1.58, −0.31]; p = 0.004]. Oral statins performed best at week eight (SMD: −0.92; 95% CI: [−1.39, −0.44]; p = 0.0001). The mechanism of lipid-lowering drugs in the treatment of psoriasis may be related to the inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation, inhibition of CCL20–CCR6 interaction, and reduction in the levels of inflammatory factors.

Limitations

There are few studies on lipid-lowering drugs and psoriasis, and their small sample sizes may render the evidence unconvincing.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that lipid-lowering drugs are relieving symptoms in psoriasis. Lipid-lowering drugs, particularly statins, can be used to treat psoriasis with good efficacy and few side effects.

Evaluation of serum lipid, lipoprotein, and apolipoprotein levels in psoriatic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control studies

Introduction

Psoriasis is a T cell-mediated inflammatory skin disease in which fatty acids may be a link between psoriasis and its comorbidity.

Aim

The present meta-analysis aimed to evaluate lipid, lipoprotein, and apolipoprotein levels in the psoriatic patients compared with the control subjects.

Material and methods

Four databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane Library were searched until July 2017. All records analysed were case-control studies. The quality of the questionnaires was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). A random-effects meta-analysis was done by Rev Man 5.3 using mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Out of 580 studies identified in four databases, 49 studies were included and analysed in this meta-analysis. The results showed that MD of total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, HDL, Lp(a), Apo A1, and Apo B levels in the patients compared with the controls were (MD = 13.74 mg/dl; 95% CI: 7.72-19.75; p< 0.00001), (MD = 26.04 mg/dl; 95% CI: 20.77-31.31; p< 0.00001), (MD = 11.41 mg/dl; 95% CI: 6.26-16.57; p< 0.0001), (MD = 4.82 mg/dl; 95% CI: 3.63-6.00; p< 0.00001), (MD = -2.78 mg/dl; 95% CI: -4.53 - -1.03; p< 0.002), (MD = 8.51 mg/dl; 95% CI: 4.86-12.17; p< 0.0001), (MD = -6.60 mg/dl; 95% CI: -13.96 - 0.75; p< 0.08), and (MD = 9.70 mg/dl; 95% CI: 3.02-16.39; p< 0.004), respectively.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis identified abnormality of serum lipid, lipoprotein, and apolipoproteinprofiles in psoriatic patients compared with the controls as well as possibly a greater risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) accidents in the patients.

The effects of supplementation with L-carnitine on apolipoproteins: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported that L-carnitin may change serum apolipoproteins. However, the results of RCTs are contradictory. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize earlier RCTs on the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on apolipoproteins B100 and AI. ISI web of science, Ovid, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to January 2019 using relevant keywords. Treatment effects were considered as weighted mean difference (MD) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval in concentrations of serum apolipoproteins. Random-effects model (Dersimonian-Liard) was used to estimate the overall summary effect. This meta-analysis was performed on fourteen trials. Our results indicated that L-carnitine supplementation has a non-significant effect on Apo B100 (mean difference (MD): 1.820 mg/dl; 95% CI: -3.367 to 7.006, p = 0.492) and Apo AI (MD: -0.119 mg/dl; 95% CI: -4.425 to 4.186, p = 0.957). We also found body mass index, L-carnitine dosage; health condition and intervention duration could change the results. We conclude that L-carnitine does not change Apo B100 and Apo AI concentration. Further trials with sufficient sample size are needed to confirm these findings.

Evaluation of ADA activity as a potential marker of disease severity in psoriasis patients

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a dermatological disorder with a multifactorial origin and is associated with many biochemical and immunological changes.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to examine the association of serum ADA activity, uric acid (UA), and high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) with psoriasis and the role of ADA in disease severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this comparative cross-sectional study, 50 clinically and histopathologically diagnosed psoriasis patients and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were taken and analysis of the biochemical parameters was performed according to Giuisti and Galanti method, uricase and ELISA technique for ADA activity, UA, and hs-CRP, respectively. The severity of the disease was scored according to Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Statistical analysis of differences within and between the study groups was carried out using the Student's t-test, one-way post hoc ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation. Linear regression was used to establish the independent association of ADA with disease severity.

RESULTS

The serum ADA activity, UA, and hs-CRP levels of the psoriatic patients were found to be significantly higher (P<0.001). hs-CRP was positively correlated with ADA and UA in patients (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triacylglycerol in psoriasis patients, whereas we noted a decreased high-density lipoprotein level in psoriasis patients as compared to controls. Linear regression showed that ADA was independently associated with the disease severity and was statistically significant (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

ADA activity was positively and significantly associated with the severity of psoriasis, therefore, it could be suggested as a marker for disease severity in psoriasis patients.

Association of a methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism with several blood chemical levels in a Chinese population

BACKGROUND

The methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism is associated with hypertension in certain populations. This study investigated the relationship between the MTHFR polymorphism and hypertension and correlated blood lipid indexes, including homocysteine (HCY), lipoprotein (a) [Lp (a)], high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), apolipoprotein A I (Apo AI), Apo B, glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG), in a Chinese population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 174 patients with hypertension and 634 healthy control individuals from Jiangxi Province were recruited between June 2012 and September 2012 for genotyping of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Biochemical parameters were also assessed in these subjects and statistically compared to the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and the risk for hypertension.

RESULTS

HCY and Lp (a) levels were significantly higher in subjects with a MTHFR 677TT genotype than in those with a CC/CT genotype, independent of hypertension. The frequency of the TT genotype and the T allele in hypertension patients was significantly higher than in the healthy controls. Furthermore, in the male hypertension patient group, the average levels of HCY, HDL, Apo AI, and TC were significantly different from those in female hypertension patients (pHCY=0.001, pHDL=0.004, pApo AI<0.001, pTC=0.012). In the male control group, the average levels of HCY, HDL, Apo AI, GLU, and TC were significantly different from those of female controls (pHCY<0.001, pHDL<0.001, pApo AI<0.001, pGLU=0.001, and pTC=0.004).

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that the MTHFR C677T polymorphism is positively correlated with an increased risk of hypertension through an increase in HCY levels. The blood lipid correlative index was different between male and female hypertension patients and controls.

Vascular adhesion protein-1: Role in human pathology and application as a biomarker

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) is a member of the copper-containing amine oxidase/semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (AOC/SSAO) enzyme family. SSAO enzymes catalyze oxidative deamination of primary amines, which results in the production of the corresponding aldehyde, hydrogen peroxide and ammonium. VAP-1 is continuously expressed as a transmembrane glycoprotein in the vascular wall during development and facilitates the accumulation of inflammatory cells into the inflamed environment in concert with other leukocyte adhesion molecules. The soluble form of VAP-1 is released into the circulation mainly from vascular endothelial cells. Over- and under-expression of sVAP-1 result in alterations of the reported reaction product levels, which are involved in the pathogenesis of multiple human diseases. The combination of enzymatic and adhesion capacities as well as its strong association with inflammatory pathologies makes VAP-1 an interesting therapeutic target for drug discovery. In this article, we will review the general characteristics and biological functions of VAP-1, focusing on its important role as a prognostic biomarker in human pathologies. In addition, the potential therapeutic application of VAP-1 inhibitors will be discussed.