Effects of the ratio of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acid to saturated fatty acid on rat plasma and liver lipid concentrations

Plasmalogen Profiling in Porcine Brain Tissues by LC-MS/MS

Plasmalogen, a functional glycerophospholipid, is known for its beneficial nutritional effects, such as anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation. As the porcine brain is a plasmalogen-rich resource, this study aimed to explore its potential for plasmalogen-based health food product development, with special attention on whether and how the industrial production processes influence the plasmalogen content and composition. In the present work, plasmalogens from different porcine brain products were investigated using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The results indicated that all the porcine brain products showed abundant total plasmalogens, of which more than 95% were ethanolamine plasmalogen species. Acetone precipitation, ethanol extraction, and drying did not significantly affect the plasmalogen content, whereas repeated freeze-thaw cycles in the production process led to noticeable loss. The chemometric investigation suggested that raw products and glycerophospholipid products exhibited different profiles; furthermore, the concentration step seemed to impact the plasmalogen composition. The nutritional assessment revealed that porcine brain products showed favorable values of multiple indexes, including PUFA/SFA ratio, n-6/n-3 ratio, thrombogenicity index, and unsaturation index, suggesting a health-beneficial value. The current study not only shows the feasibility of producing porcine brain-derived plasmalogens, but also provides possible strategies for developing and quality-controlling dietary plasmalogen supplements and healthcare products.

Comparison of Intake of Food Groups Based on Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the Middle-Age Population of Lower Silesia: Results of the PURE Poland Study

Chronic inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of many non-infectious diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD), a leading cause of death in Europe. The aim of the study was to assess the inflammatory potential of the diets of participants enrolled in the Polish arm of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study, evaluate the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) score with the dietary content, and to determine the correlation of DII score with selected anthropometric parameters and biochemical risk factors for CVD. Diets were assessed with the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Among participants with pro-inflammatory diets, we reported higher mean values of triglycerides (TG), fasting glucose (FG), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), and the Castelli's risk index (CRI) in the group of men and women, and higher waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) in the group of women. Pro-inflammatory diets were associated with higher intake of refined grains, sweets, juices, red meat, high-fat cheese and cream, alcohol, fats except for vegetable oils, potatoes, sugar and honey, French fries, fried fish, and processed/high-fat poultry. Moreover, study participants with pro-inflammatory diets consumed more milk, low-fat dairy, and eggs associated with unhealthy dietary habits, but this should not be considered as an independent CVD risk factor. Anthropometric and biochemical outcomes were more favorable among study participants who consumed more vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, raisins, pulses, low-fat poultry, and tea. However, association of beverage consumption with dietary inflammatory potential requires further study.

CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Gene Editing of BnFAD2 and BnFAE1 Modifies Fatty Acid Profiles in Brassica napus

Fatty acid (FA) composition determines the quality of oil from oilseed crops, and thus is a major target for genetic improvement. FAD2 (Fatty acid dehydrogenase 2) and FAE1 (fatty acid elongase 1) are critical FA synthetic genes, and have been the focus of genetic manipulation to alter fatty acid composition in oilseed plants. In this study, to improve the nutritional quality of rapeseed cultivar CY2 (about 50% oil content; of which 40% erucic acid), we generated novel knockout plants by CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing of BnFAD2 and BnFAE1 genes. Two guide RNAs were designed to target one copy of the BnFAD2 gene and two copies of the BnFAE1 gene, respectively. A number of lines with mutations at three target sites of BnFAD2 and BnFAE1 genes were identified by sequence analysis. Three of these lines showed mutations in all three target sites of the BnFAD2 and BnFAE1 genes. Fatty acid composition analysis of seeds revealed that mutations at all three sites resulted in significantly increased oleic acid (70–80%) content compared with that of CY2 (20%), greatly reduced erucic acid levels and slightly decreased polyunsaturated fatty acids content. Our results confirmed that the CRISPR/Cas9 system is an effective tool for improving this important trait.

Peony seed oil decreases plasma cholesterol and favorably modulates gut microbiota in hypercholesterolemic hamsters

PURPOSE

Peony (Paeonia spp.) seed oil (PSO) contains a high amount of α-linolenic acid. The effects of PSO on hypercholesterolemia and gut microbiota remains unclear. The present study was to investigate effects of PSO supplementation on cholesterol metabolism and modulation of the gut microbiota.

METHODS

Male Golden Syrian hamsters (n = 40) were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8, each) fed one of the following diets namely low-cholesterol diet (LCD); high cholesterol diet (HCD); HCD with PSO substituting 50% lard (LPSO), PSO substituting 100% lard (HPSO) and HCD with addition of 0.5% cholestyramine (PCD), respectively, for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

PSO supplementation dose-dependently reduced plasma total cholesterol (TC) by 9-14%, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) by 7-18% and triacylglycerols (TG) by 14-34% (p < 0.05). In addition, feeding PSO diets reduced the formation of plaque lesions by 49-61% and hepatic lipids by 9-19% compared with feeding HCD diet (p < 0.01). PSO also altered relative genus abundance of unclassified_f__Coriobacteriaceae, unclassified_f__Erysipelotrichaceae, Peptococcus, unclassified_f__Ruminococcaceae, norank_o__Mollicutes_RF9 and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group.

CONCLUSIONS

It was concluded that PSO was effective in reducing plasma cholesterol and hepatic lipids and favorably modulating gut microbiota associated with cholesterol metabolism.

Differential Effect of Dietary Supplementation with a Soybean Oil Enriched in Oleic Acid versus Linoleic Acid on Plasma Lipids and Atherosclerosis in LDLR-Deficient Mice

Both monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play important roles in lipid metabolism, and diets enriched with either of these two fatty acids are associated with decreased cardiovascular risk. Conventional soybean oil (CSO), a common food ingredient, predominantly contains linoleic acid (LA; C18:2), a n-6 PUFA. Recently, a modified soybean oil (MSO) enriched in oleic acid (C18:1), a n-9 MUFA, has been developed, because of its improved chemical stability to oxidation. However, the effect of the different dietary soybean oils on cardiovascular disease remains unknown. To test whether diets rich in CSO versus MSO would attenuate atherosclerosis development, LDL receptor knock-out (LDLR-KO) mice were fed a Western diet enriched in saturated fatty acids (control), or a Western diet supplemented with 5% (w/w) LA-rich CSO or high-oleic MSO for 12 weeks. Both soybean oils contained a similar amount of linolenic acid (C18:3 n-3). The CSO diet decreased plasma lipid levels and the cholesterol content of VLDL and LDL by approximately 18% (p < 0.05), likely from increased hepatic levels of PUFA, which favorably regulated genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. The MSO diet, but not the CSO diet, suppressed atherosclerotic plaque size compared to the Western control diet (Control Western diet: 6.5 ± 0.9%; CSO diet: 6.4 ± 0.7%; MSO diet: 4.0 ± 0.5%) (p < 0.05), independent of plasma lipid level changes. The MSO diet also decreased the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA in the liver (Control Western diet: 4.5 ± 0.2; CSO diet: 6.1 ± 0.2; MSO diet: 2.9 ± 0.2) (p < 0.05), which correlated with favorable hepatic gene expression changes in lipid metabolism and markers of systemic inflammation. In conclusion, supplementation of the Western diet with MSO, but not CSO, reduced atherosclerosis development in LDLR-KO mice independent of changes in plasma lipids.

Stabilization of metals in sludge-amended soil using red mud and its effects on yield and oil quality of Brassica juncea cultivar Kranti

Prolonged application of sewage-sludge may cause excessive accumulation of metal(oid)s in soil, leading to phytotoxic effects. Spread of contaminants in soil can probably be hindered by using an effective metal(oid) stabilizer. Pot experiment in open field conditions was conducted for five months to evaluate the metal(oid) (Al, Cu, Zn, Cd and Cr) stabilization potential of red mud (RM) in sludge-amended soil and its effects on growth, yield, oil quality parameters and metal(oid) accumulations in Brassica juncea cultivar Kranti. The test plant was grown at different RM concentrations (0, 5, 10 and 15% w/w) in sludge-amended soil (soil/sludge: 2:1 w/w). As the total and phytoavailable metal(oid) concentrations in sludge were high, its application increased their concentrations in soil compared to the control (no RM and sludge). Increasing RM concentrations in sludge-amended soil effectively stabilized Cd followed by Cr, Cu, Zn and Al, leading to their reduced contents in plants coupled with enhanced growth performance and yield. Maximum plant (root and shoot) biomass (14.9%) and seed yield (40.4%) were found in 10% RM treatment, whereas oil content showed substantial increase with increasing RM treatments in sludge-amended soil. Mustard oil showed low rancidification, high long-chain fatty acids, saturated and polyunsaturated (ω-3 and ω-6) fatty acids within FAO ranges for edible oils under varying RM treatments compared to sludge-amended soil. Furthermore, high oleic and low erucic acid contents in mustard oil indicated a better oil quality under different RM treatments. Metal(oid) contents in seeds under different red mud treatments were within FAO/WHO limits for consumption. Thus, RM applications preferably 5 and 10% (w/w) in sludge-amended soil might be effective in stabilization of metal(oid)s using B. juncea cultivar Kranti coupled with better yield, improved oil quality and metal(oid)s within limits for human consumption.

Influence of Drying Techniques on the Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Morphological Properties of Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) Fillets

Different experiment analyses were performed to evaluate the influence of two drying techniques (oven drying and microwave drying) on the fillets of bighead carp fish (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis). The processed and fresh samples were subjected to the chemical analysis of (amino acids, minerals, volatile compounds, fatty acids, and vitamins) as well as scanning electron microscopy, thermal analysis, and color measurement, in order to identify nutritional components that can be additives or supplementary in food industries. The drying techniques increased the protein content significantly. Amino acids were identified, and the level of essential amino acid (EAA) was higher under the microwave treatment compared with the oven drying process. The Ca+2 and K+1 were presented in high values, followed by Na+1 and Mg+2. In addition, the drying techniques showed and released more volatile compounds in the processed samples compared with the unprocessed samples. Under the drying process, polyunsaturated fatty acids were increased in the processed fillets, whereas the level of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids reduced. Thermal degradation occurred from 100 to 150 °C. However, the processed samples were subjected to an intensive endothermic response, but remained stable until 100 °C. Therefore, the microwave technique showed some enhancements in the nutritional value and has the potential to be applied as an effective preservation method of bighead carp fish. Furthermore, dried fillets could be an alternative source of bighead carp fish for the food industry.

Combined effect of olive pruning residues and spent coffee grounds on Pleurotus ostreatus production, composition, and nutritional value

No previous study assessed the combined effect of olive pruning residues (OLPR) and spent coffee grounds (SCG) on P. ostreatus production and nutritional value. The aim of this study was to determine the capacity of P. ostreatus to degrade lignocellulosic nature of combined OLPR and SCG as well as their resultant nutrient composition. A complete randomized design was adopted with five treatments: S1:100%wheat straw (WS) (control), S2:33%WS+33%SCG+33%OLPR,S3:66%WS+17%SCG+17%OLPR,S4:17%WS+66%SCG+17%OLPR, and S5:17%WS+17%SCG+66%OLPR, and ten replicates per treatment. Substrate's and mushroom's composition were analyzed on chemical scale, including fatty acids and heavy metals profiles, following international standards. Only S1, S2, and S3 were productive, with comparable biological yield, economical yield, and biological efficiency. Organic matter loss decreased with increasing proportions of OLPR and SCG. Percentage lignin loss was higher in S1 than in S2 and S3 (53.51, 26.25, and 46.15% respectively). Mushrooms of S3 had some enhanced nutritional attributes compared to control: decrease in fat, increase in protein, increase in monounsaturated fatty acids, and lower zinc accumulation. Lead was less accumulated in S2 than S1 mushrooms. Sodium content of mushroom decreased in S2 and S3. The latter substrates yielded mushrooms with lower polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and higher saturated fatty acids (SFA) contents. All mushrooms had a valuable PUFA/SFA. This study suggests using OLPR and SCG in low proportions as nutritional supplements to the commercial wheat straw.

Identification and Development of KASP Markers for Novel Mutant BnFAD2 Alleles Associated With Elevated Oleic Acid in Brassica napus

The fatty acid desaturase FAD2 genes are the main contributors to oleic acid content, and different FAD2 alleles can result in different oleic acid contents in rapeseed oil. Hence, identification of allelic variation in FAD2 is an extremely desirable breeding goal. By performing QTL mapping using 190 F_2:3 lines genotyped by genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers assayed by the Brassica 60 K Infinium BeadChip Array, four quantitative trait loci (QTL) for C18:1 content were mapped on chromosomes A01, A05, A09 and C05 over 3 years in a population segregating for oleic acid content. Two BnFAD2 genes on A05 and C05 were anchored within the QTL intervals, explaining 45-52 and 15-44% of the observed variation for C18:1 content. Sequence polymorphisms between the corresponding coding regions of the parental lines found two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BnFAD2.A05 and BnFAD2.C05, respectively, which led to the amino acid changes (C421T and G1073E) in the corresponding proteins. The mutation sites of Bnfad2.A05 and Bnfad2.C05 alleles were located within the second H-box and near the third H-box motif of the protein, respectively, and were found to be novel mutant alleles. Lines resulting from the combination of these two alleles contained up to 88% oleic acid in their seed oil, compared with 63% in wild-type controls. Two competitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers based on these two mutation sites were successfully developed and validated in segregating F₂ populations. These markers will facilitate breeding for ultra-high seed oleic acid content in oilseed rape.

Advances in Technologies for Highly Active Omega-3 Fatty Acids from Krill Oil: Clinical Applications

Euphausia superba, commonly known as krill, is a small marine crustacean from the Antarctic Ocean that plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, serving as feed for most fish. It is a known source of highly bioavailable omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid). In preclinical studies, krill oil showed metabolic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and chemo preventive effects, while in clinical trials it showed significant metabolic, vascular and ergogenic actions. Solvent extraction is the most conventional method to obtain krill oil. However, different solvents must be used to extract all lipids from krill because of the diversity of the polarities of the lipid compounds in the biomass. This review aims to provide an overview of the chemical composition, bioavailability and bioaccessibility of krill oil, as well as the mechanisms of action, classic and non-conventional extraction techniques, health benefits and current applications of this marine crustacean.

Evaluation of nutritional composition of Citrullus lanatus Linn. (watermelon) seed and biochemical assessment of the seed oil in rats

The present study investigated the nutritional composition of watermelon seeds and the effect of extracted oil on the biochemical parameters in rats after 28 days of oral administration. The watermelon seeds showed considerable proximate values but with less moisture, crude fiber, ash, and phytochemical components. The maximal dose of 50 ml/kg of watermelon seed oil (WMSO) showed no sign of toxicity in rats. WMSO significantly decreased serum cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, ALT, and MDA but enhanced the level of HDL, VLDL, SOD, and CAT without compromising the liver integrity. For glucose tolerance, a positive oral glucose-lowering was observed. The fatty acid analysis showed the presence of three major fatty acids; 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (52.32%), n-hexadecenoic acid (21.23%), and oleic acid (10.11%) with good oxidative stability and fatty acid ratio. The outcome of this study suggests that the seeds and oil from watermelon could have a beneficial effect on man. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Plant-based oils have gained significant interest globally as a source of food, cosmetics, and compounds with therapeutic potential against certain human diseases. The watermelon seed oil is a rich source of oleic acid, linoleic, and palmitic acid. These prominent biologically active fatty acid components have contributed to the robust biochemical effects observed in this study. Based on the data obtained in this work on the nutritional analysis of the watermelon seed and potent antioxidative capacity, improved liver biomarkers, good oxidative stability, and the fatty acid ratio of WMSO, we proposed that consumption of the seed and its oil could offer a cheap and affordable nutraceutical for human benefits. However, we recommend further studies on the biological activity and safety aspect of watermelon seed oil for its long-term usage.

Valorization of Olive Pruning Residues through Bioconversion into Edible Mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. Ex Fr.) P. Kumm. (1871) of Improved Nutritional Value

In several Mediterranean countries, olive pruning residues (OLPRs) are abandoned or burned leading to several environmental problems. Valorization of these agrowastes could be a challenge for the primary decomposer Pleurotus ostreatus, turning them into edible biomass. The OLPR was used alone (OLPR), or in mixtures with wheat straw (WS : OLPR 1 : 3 v/v and WS : OLPR 3 : 1 v/v). Mycelial colonization was hastened by 3.7 days in WS : OLPR 1 : 3 (v/v). Yields were comparable to control (WS) in WS : OLPR 3 : 1 (v/v). Organic matter loss decreased with increasing proportions of OLPR in substrates. The nutritional value of mushrooms was improved by lower fat and sodium contents, in WS : OLPR 1 : 3 (v/v) and WS : OLPR 3 : 1 (v/v), and higher total protein, crude fiber, iron, and total carbohydrates contents in WS : OLPR 3 : 1 (v/v), compared with those of control. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly linoleic acid, were the most abundant in mushrooms. Monounsaturated fatty acids increased in mushrooms of the substrates containing OLPR. A good predictive model of partial least square regression analysis showed different relationships of mushroom palmitic, oleic, linolenic, palmitoleic, and stearic acids with substrate composition. Findings suggested the use of OLPR as a supplement to commercial wheat straw and as a tool to reduce the negative impacts of their hazardous disposal on the environment.

Fatty Acids, Volatile and Sensory Profile of Multigrain Biscuits Enriched with Spent Malt Rootles

Spent malt rootlets, a by-product of the brewing industry, are a rich source of protein, essential amino acids, healthy fats, polyphenols and minerals, and could be a new promising type of raw material from the nutritional, economic, sensory, and technical perspectives. However, their specific aroma profile could limit their addition in baked products. The aim of this work was to study the effect of spent malt rootlets addition on volatile derivatives of enriched biscuits in relation to their sensory profile. For this purpose, spent malt rootlets and enriched biscuits (0-25% spent malt rootlets added) were analyzed by GC-MS techniques, in order to obtain their fatty acids methyl esters and volatile compounds profile, while for the sensory analysis a nine-point hedonic score test was used. The results of this study reveal the fatty acids and volatile profile of spent malt rootlets and of the enriched biscuits with spent malt rootlets pointing out the contribution of fatty acids to the generation of aroma compounds. The influence of different aroma compounds on the consumer's preferences was studied and the optimum level addition of spent malt rootlets in multigrain biscuits was found to be 15%.

Utilizing Dietary Nutrient Ratios in Nutritional Research: Expanding the Concept of Nutrient Ratios to Macronutrients

We recently showed that using micronutrient ratios in nutritional research might provide more insights into how diet affects metabolism and health outcomes, based on the notion that nutrients, unlike drugs, are not consumed one at a time and do not target a single metabolic pathway. In this paper, we present a concept of macronutrient ratios, including intra- and inter-macronutrient ratios. Macronutrient intakes from food only, from the What We Eat in America website (summarized National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data) were transposed into Microsoft Excel to generate ratios. Overall, the dietary ratios of macronutrients may be more revealing and useful in epidemiology and in basic nutritional research than focusing on individual protein, fat, and carbohydrate intakes. While macronutrient ratios may be applied to all types of nutritional research, nutritional epidemiology, and, ultimately, dietary guidelines, the methodology required has not been established yet. In the meantime, intra- and inter-macronutrient ratios may serve as a measure of individual and total macronutrient quality.

Identification and Functional Analysis of Two New Mutant BnFAD2 Alleles That Confer Elevated Oleic Acid Content in Rapeseed

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is a vital oil crop worldwide. High oleic acid content is a desirable quality trait for rapeseed oil, which makes it more beneficial to human health. However, many germplasm resources with high oleic acid content in rapeseed have not been evaluated with regard to their genotypes, making it difficult to select the best strains with this trait for the breeding of high oleic acid rapeseed variety. This work was to explore the gene-regulation mechanism of this trait using a new super-high oleic acid content (∼85%) line N1379T as genetic material. In this study, the sequences of four homologous fatty acid desaturase (BnFAD2) genes were compared between super-high (∼85%, N1379T) and normal (∼63%) oleic acid content lines. Results showed that there were two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BnFAD2-1 and BnFAD2-2, respectively, which led to the amino acid changes (E106K and G303E) in the corresponding proteins. Functional analysis of both genes in yeast confirmed that these SNPs were loss-of-function mutations, thus limiting the conversion of oleic acid to linoleic acid and resulting in the considerable accumulation of oleic acid. Moreover, two specific cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS) markers for the two SNPs were developed to identify genotypes of each line in the F₂ and BC₁ populations. Furthermore, these two mutant loci of BnFAD2-1 and BnFAD2-2 genes were positively associated with elevated oleic acid levels and had a similar effect with regard to the increase of oleic acid content. Taken together, these two novel SNPs in two different BnFAD2 genes jointly regulated the high oleic acid trait in this special germplasm. The study provided insight into the genetic regulation involved in oleic acid accumulation and highlighted the use of new alleles of BnFAD2-1 and BnFAD2-2 in breeding high oleic acid rapeseed varieties.

Analysis of fatty acid methyl esters and oxidative stability of seed purpose watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) genotypes for edible oil

World's vegetable oil demand is increasing day by day and oil seed supply is limited to a dozen oil seed crops on commercial scale. Efforts were made to explore the potential of water melon a traditionally grown native crop of Indian arid zone having oil content over 30% and seed yield potential of 500-600 kg per hectare under rainfed conditions. An analysis was carried out to explore the suitability of watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)] oil for human consumption on the basis of fatty acid (FA) composition in selected genotypes. Total oil content ranged between 10.0 and 31.0%. Eleven FA were identified in seed oil. Linoleic, stearic, palmitic and oleic acid were found as major FA while myristic, heptadecanoic, arachidic, 9-hexadecenoic and 14-eicosenoic acid was present in traces. Linoleic acid single polyunsaturated FA contributor found in the range of 43.95% (WM-44) to 55.29% (WM-18). Saturated FA content ranged between 32.24 and 37.61%. Significant genetic variation was observed for mono-unsaturated FA. Metabolic capacity to inter-conversion of FA and nutritive value of watermelon oil was described on the basis of ratio of FA group. Total phenolics, antioxidant activity, peroxide value and oxidizability were also estimated along with oxidative stability of oil. Multivariate analysis showed that, oil content has positive correlation with linoleic acid. The Euclidean based UPGMA clustering revealed that genotypes WM-18 is most suitable for trait specific breeding program for high linoleic acid (n-6), desaturation ratio and oleic desaturation ratio with higher oil content and lowest palmitic acid.

Association Mapping Analysis of Fatty Acid Content in Different Ecotypic Rapeseed Using mrMLM

Brassica napus L. is a widely cultivated oil crop and provides important resources of edible vegetable oil, and its quality is determined by fatty acid composition and content. To explain the genetic basis and identify more minor loci for fatty acid content, the multi-locus random-SNP-effect mixed linear model (mrMLM) was used to identify genomic regions associated with fatty acid content in a genetically diverse population of 435 rapeseed accessions, including 77 winter-type, 55 spring-type, and 303 semi-winter-type accessions grown in different environments. A total of 149 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) were found to be associated with fatty acid content and composition, including 34 QTNs that overlapped with the previously reported loci, and 115 novel QTNs. Of these, 35 novel QTNs, located on chromosome A01, A02, A03, A05, A06, A09, A10, and C02, respectively, were repeatedly detected across different environments. Subsequently, we annotated 95 putative candidate genes by BlastP analysis using sequences from Arabidopsis thaliana homologs of the identified regions. The candidate genes included 34 environmentally-insensitive genes (e.g., CER4, DGK2, KCS17, KCS18, MYB4, and TT16) and 61 environment-sensitive genes (e.g., FAB1, FAD6, FAD7, KCR1, KCS9, KCS12, and TT1) as well as genes invloved in the fatty acid biosynthesis. Among these, BnaA08g08280D and BnaC03g60080D differed in genomic sequence between the high- and low-oleic acid lines, and might thus be the novel alleles regulating oleic acid content. Furthermore, RT-qPCR analysis of these genes showed differential expression levels during seed development. Our results highlight the practical and scientific value of mrMLM or QTN detection and the accuracy of linking specific QTNs to fatty acid content, and suggest a useful strategy to improve the fatty acid content of B. napus seeds by molecular marker-assisted breeding.

Nutritional and Nutraceutical Properties of Triticum dicoccum Wheat and Its Health Benefits: An Overview

Triticum dicoccum wheat is one of the ancient wheat species and is gaining popularity due to its suggested health benefits as well as its suitability for organic farming. In some parts of the world, certain traditional foods prepared with dicoccum wheat are preferred due to their better taste, texture, and flavor. It is rich in bioactive compounds and its starch has been reported to have slow digestibility. However, content and composition of bioactive compounds is reported to vary depending on the geographical location, seasonal variations, varieties used, and the analytical methods followed. Therefore, in the present study, we report the food uses, digestibility of starch, nutritional and nutraceutical compositions of dicoccum wheat grown in different parts of the world, and also its health benefits in ameliorating diabetes and celiac disease.

Trans-Himalayan Rhodiola imbricata Edgew. root: a novel source of dietary amino acids, fatty acids and minerals

Roots of Rhodiola imbricata Edgew from Indian trans-Himalayan cold desert known for their nutritional and medicinal attributes were evaluated for the dietary amino acids, fatty acids and mineral composition. Nine essential and twelve non-essential amino acids were quantified. The contents ranged between 91.33 and 1640.67 µg/g. Histidine (1434.33 µg/g), lysine (1329.33 µg/g) and threonine (1015.67 μg/g) were dominant essential amino acids, while glycine (1640.67 µg/g), proline (1263.67 µg/g), alanine (1142.33 µg/g), cystine HCL (1136.33 μg/g) and nor leucine (1038.67 μg/g) were major non essential amino acids. The total lipid was found to be rich source of saturated fatty acids such as capric acid (19.91%), caproic acid (10.87%), palmitic acid (9.42%), lignoceric acid (6.16%) and behenic acid (5.71%), which together constituted 52% of the lipid content. Linoleic acid (15.06%), oleic acid (12.38%), arachidonic acid (8.38%), linolelaidic acid (6.11%) and docosadienoic acid (5.99%) were prominent unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). Mono unsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were 35.64% and 12.33% of the lipid content respectively. Calcium (11034.17 mg/kg), potassium (2143.25 mg/kg), iron (1441.17 mg/kg), magnesium (581.99 mg/kg), phosphorous (376.72 mg/kg) and sodium (109.75 mg/kg) were detected as the major dietary minerals.

Three differently generated salmon protein hydrolysates reveal opposite effects on hepatic lipid metabolism in mice fed a high-fat diet

This study investigates the effects of salmon peptide fractions, generated using different enzymatic hydrolyzation methods, on hepatic lipid metabolism. Four groups of mice were fed a high-fat diet with 20% casein (control group) or 15% casein and 5% of peptide fractions (treatment groups E1, E2 and E4) for 6weeks. Weight gain was reduced in mice fed E1 and E4-diets compared to control, despite a similar feed intake. Reduced plasma and liver triacylglycerol levels in E1 and E4-mice were linked to reduced fatty acid synthase (FAS) activity and hepatic expression of lipogenic genes. By contrast, plasma and liver lipids increased in the E2 group, concomitant with increased hepatic FAS activity and Δ9 desaturase gene expression. Shotgun lipidomics showed that MUFAs were significantly reduced in the E1 and E4 groups, whereas PUFAs were increased, and the opposite was observed in the E2 group. In conclusion, bioactive peptides with distinctive properties could potentially be isolated from salmon hydrolysates.

Differential effects of habitual chow-based and semi-purified diets on lipid metabolism in lactating rats and their offspring

Diet during pregnancy and lactation is a critical factor in relation to the health of dams and their offspring. Currently, control diets used in metabolic imprinting studies differ in composition and type, i.e. semi-purified diets (SD) or chow-based diets (ND). The aim of the present study was to determine whether two widely used control diets, a SD and a ND, that mainly differ in fat content (5·08 and 3·26 %, respectively) and its sources (soyabean oil for the SD and cereals and fish for the ND), fibre (6 and 15 %, respectively), and cholesterol (26 and 69 mg/kg diet, respectively) can influence the lipid metabolism of dams and their offspring. Wistar rats were fed either the SD or the ND during pregnancy and lactation. At weaning, SD-fed dams presented severe hepatic steatosis and increased levels of circulating TAG, NEFA and insulin. Importantly, the offspring presented an altered plasma lipid profile. In contrast, the ND allowed for a normal gestation and lactation process, and did not affect the metabolism of offspring. In parallel, virgin rats fed the SD showed no metabolic alterations. A higher intake of SFA and MUFA and a lower consumption of PUFA observed in SD-fed dams during the lactation period could contribute to explaining the observed effects. In conclusion, two different control diets produced very different outcomes in the lipid metabolism of lactating rats and their offspring. The present results highlight the importance of the assessment of the metabolic state of dams when interpreting the results of metabolic programming studies.

Nutritional profile of phytococktail from trans-Himalayan plants

We estimated the nutritive value, vitamin content, amino acid composition, fatty acid content, and mineral profile of a phytococktail comprising sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), apricot (Prunus armeniaca), and roseroot (Rhodiola imbricata) from trans-Himalaya. The free vitamin forms in the phytococktail were determined by rapid resolution liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (RRLC-MS/MS). Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins were detected as the principle vitamins. Reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) with pre-column derivatization was used for identification and quantification of amino acids. Eight essential and eleven non-essential amino acids were quantified, and the content ranged between 76.33 and 9485.67 µg/g. Among the essential amino acids, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-lysine, L-leucine, and L-histidine were found to be the dominant contributors. We also quantified the fatty acids in the phytococktail by using gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) with fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) derivatization. The analysis revealed the presence of 4 major fatty acids contributing to the total lipid content. Palmitic acid was found to be the rich source of saturated fatty acid (SFA) and constituted ∼31% of the total lipid content. Among the unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), palmitoleic acid (43.47%), oleic acid (20.89%), and linoleic acid (4.31%) were prominent. The mineral profiling was carried out by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), and it was found to contain a number of important dietary mineral elements. The harsh climatic conditions, difficult terrain, and logistic constraints at high altitude regions of Indian trans-Himalayan cold desert lead to the scarcity of fresh fruits and vegetables. Therefore, the source of multiple vitamins, essential amino acids, fatty acids, and dietary minerals from the phytococktail would provide great health benefit in the stressful environment and could be used as a high value nutritional supplement.

Effect of bioactive substances found in rapeseed, raspberry and strawberry seed oils on blood lipid profile and selected parameters of oxidative status in rats

Rapeseed, strawberry and raspberry seed oils are a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants such as tocols, bioflavonoids and phytosterols. The aim of the study was to determine changes in the blood lipid profile of rats fed with rapeseed, strawberry and raspberry seed oils and their effects on selected parameters of oxidative status. The experiment was carried out on male Wistar rats. The oils were administered by oral gavage for 5 weeks once daily at the dose of about 0.8 ml per rat. Blood samples were taken before and after supplementation period. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (cGPx) was assessed in erythrocytes and contents of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, low-density fraction of cholesterol (LDL) and high-density fraction of cholesterol (HDL) were assessed in plasma. The experiment shows that oils supplemented in the diet for 5 weeks had no significant effect on the level of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol as well as HDL and LDL fractions. Reduced activity of cGPX and SOD in the group of rats receiving raspberry and strawberry seed oils suggests that these native oils may contribute to oxidative stability (improves antioxidant status). Thus, strawberry and raspberry seed oils can be considered as special biological oils, which constitute potential nutraceuticals reducing oxidative stress.

Oral administration of alkylglycerols differentially modulates high-fat diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice

Alkylglycerols (AKGs) from shark liver oil (SLO) were demonstrated to have strong potency to stimulate immune response. However, no study has been conducted on the effects of AKGs on diet-induced obesity and metabolic inflammatory disorder. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of two AKGs isoforms on obesity and insulin resistance in mice fed high-fat (HF) diet. Forty-eight C57BL/6 mice were divided into normal, HF, HF + 20 mg/kg selachyl alcohol (SA), HF + 200 mg/kg SA, HF + 20 mg/kg batyl alcohol (BA), and HF + 200 mg/kg BA groups. Body weight, fasting glucose, lipids, insulin and leptin levels, serum IL-1β, and TNF-α levels were compared among different groups. Our results showed that high-dose SA decreased body weight, serum triglyceride, cholesterol, fasting glucose level, insulin level, and serum leptin level of the HF fed mice, while high-dose BA increased fasting insulin level of the HF fed mice. Pretreatment of primary adipocytes with 10 μM SA or BA differentially modulates LPS-mediated MAPK and NF-κB signaling. Our study demonstrated that oral administration of AKGs has differential effects on HF-induced obesity and metabolic inflammatory disorder in mice.

Conjugated linoleic acid conversion by six Lactobacillus plantarum strains cultured in MRS broth supplemented with sunflower oil and soymilk

Six strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, isolated from traditional dairy products of minority nationalities, were evaluated for their ability to produce conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) from free linoleic acid in vitro. All the 6 strains were found to be capable of converting linoleic acid to CLA when using sunflower oil as substrate or during soymilk fermentation. The inhibitory effect of linoleic acid on the growth of the L. plantarum was also discussed. The production of CLA was increased with adding high concentration of substrate in sunflower oil and IMAU60042 produced the highest CLA both in sunflower oil and soymilk. The CLA was composted by 2 isomers: cis9, trans11-CLA and tran10, cis12-CLA, and cis9, tran s11-CLA covered the most part of the total CLA formed except for L. plantarum P8. The production of CLA was decreased during the storage of fermented soymilk. The CLA contents decreased significantly in the first week, also more quickly in 2 wk. Especially, tran10, cis12-CLA decreased more rapidly than cis9, tran11-CLA. No dramatic change was observed among other 8 fatty acids in soymilk. The proportion of unsaturated fatty acids varied after fermentation with different L. plantrum strains, but all decreased the during storage. The research on the ability of converting CLA of L. plantrum strains could be basis for the future research and development of fermented soymilk products.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Desirable probiotic traits, such as acid and bile tolerance, aggregation activity, and antibacterial activity, have been proved for the 6 Lactobacillus plantarum strains. The 6 L. plantarum strains might be used in the fermentation of soymilk to produce multifunctional probiotic soymilk products, especially the rich CLA contents.

Eliminating expression of erucic acid-encoding loci allows the identification of "hidden" QTL contributing to oil quality fractions and oil content in Brassica juncea (Indian mustard)

Oil content and oil quality fractions (viz., oleic, linoleic and linolenic acid) are strongly influenced by the erucic acid pathway in oilseed Brassicas. Low levels of erucic acid in seed oil increases oleic acid content to nutritionally desirable levels, but also increases the linoleic and linolenic acid fractions and reduces oil content in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). Analysis of phenotypic variability for oil quality fractions among a high-erucic Indian variety (Varuna), a low-erucic east-European variety (Heera) and a zero-erucic Indian variety (ZE-Varuna) developed by backcross breeding in this study indicated that lower levels of linoleic and linolenic acid in Varuna are due to substrate limitation caused by an active erucic acid pathway and not due to weaker alleles or enzyme limitation. To identify compensatory loci that could be used to increase oil content and maintain desirable levels of oil quality fractions under zero-erucic conditions, we performed Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) mapping for the above traits on two independent F1 doubled haploid (F1DH) mapping populations developed from a cross between Varuna and Heera. One of the populations comprised plants segregating for erucic acid content (SE) and was used earlier for construction of a linkage map and QTL mapping of several yield-influencing traits in B. juncea. The second population consisted of zero-erucic acid individuals (ZE) for which, an Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP)-based framework linkage map was constructed in the present study. By QTL mapping for oil quality fractions and oil content in the ZE population, we detected novel loci contributing to the above traits. These loci did not co-localize with mapped locations of the fatty acid desaturase 2 (FAD2), fatty acid desaturase 3 (FAD3) or fatty acid elongase (FAE) genes unlike those of the SE population wherein major QTL were found to coincide with mapped locations of the FAE genes. Some of the new loci identified in the ZE population could be detected as 'weak' contributors (with LOD < 2.5) in the SE population in which their contribution to the traits was "masked" due to pleiotropic effects of erucic acid genes. The novel loci identified in this study could now be used to improve oil quality parameters and oil content in B. juncea under zero-erucic conditions.

Integrated microRNA and mRNA expression profiling in a rat colon carcinogenesis model: effect of a chemo-protective diet

We have recently demonstrated that nutritional bioactives (fish oil and pectin) modulate microRNA molecular switches in the colon. Since integrated analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression at an early stage of colon cancer development is lacking, in this study, four computational approaches were utilized to test the hypothesis that microRNAs and their posttranscriptionally regulated mRNA targets, i.e., both total mRNAs and actively translated mRNA transcripts, are differentially modulated by carcinogen and diet treatment. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed diets containing corn oil ± fish oil with pectin ± cellulose and injected with azoxymethane or saline (control). Colonic mucosa was assayed at an early time of cancer progression, and global gene set enrichment analysis was used to obtain those microRNAs significantly enriched by the change in expression of their putative target genes. In addition, cumulative distribution function plots and functional network analyses were used to evaluate the impact of diet and carcinogen combination on mRNA levels induced via microRNA alterations. Finally, linear discriminant analysis was used to identify the best single-, two-, and three-microRNA combinations for classifying dietary effects and colon tumor development. We demonstrate that polysomal profiling is tightly related to microRNA changes when compared with total mRNA profiling. In addition, diet and carcinogen exposure modulated a number of microRNAs (miR-16, miR-19b, miR-21, miR26b, miR27b, miR-93, and miR-203) linked to canonical oncogenic signaling pathways. Complementary gene expression analyses showed that oncogenic PTK2B, PDE4B, and TCF4 were suppressed by the chemoprotective diet at both the mRNA and protein levels.

Determination of essential fatty acid composition among mutant lines of Canola (Brassica napus), through high pressure liquid chromatography

The present study aimed to quantify the methyl esters of lenoleic acid (LA), gamma-lenolenic acid (LNA) and oleic acid (OL) in the oil of Brassica napus mutants. Five stable mutants (ROO-75/1, ROO-100/6, ROO-125/12, ROO-125/14, and ROO-125/17) of B. napus cv. 'Rainbow' (P) and three mutants (W97-95/16, W97-0.75/11 and W97-.075/13) of B. napus cv. 'Westar' (P) at M6 stage, exhibiting better yield and yield components, were analyzed for essential fatty acids. The highest seed yield was observed in the mutant (ROO-100/6) followed by ROO-125/14 of Rainbow, that is, 34% and 32% higher than their parent plants, respectively. Westar mutant W97-75/11 also showed 30% higher seed yield than its parent plant. High performance liquid chromatography analysis of the composition of fatty acids indicated that OL was the most dominant fatty acid, ranging from 39.1 to 66.3%; LA was second (15.3-41.6%) and LNA was third (18.1-28.9%). Mutant ROO-125/14 showed higher OL contents than parent (Rainbow). These results are expected to support the approval of ROO-125/14 in the National Uniform Varietal Yield Trials (NUVYT) as a new variety based on high oil quality.

Differential regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in transgenic mice expressing human cholesterol ester transfer proteinThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled The Cellular and Molecular Basis of Cardiovascular Dysfunction, Dhalla 70th Birthday Tribute

We investigated whether expression of cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) in mice alters the regulation of cholesterol metabolism. Transgenic mice expressing human CETP (CETP-TG) and nontransgenic littermates (non-TG) were fed either a monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) or a saturated fatty acid (SFA)-rich diet in the presence or absence of cholesterol. Mice fed with MUFA diet had higher CETP activity compared with SFA-fed mice. Addition of cholesterol to the MUFA diet decreased CETP activity, whereas addition of cholesterol to the SFA diet had no effect. Cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a) activity was higher in CETP-TG mice compared with non-TG mice when fed a MUFA diet, whereas SFA fed CETP-TG mice showed lower Cyp7a activity as compared with non-TG. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) activity was higher in CETP-TG mice compared with non-TG mice when fed a MUFA diet. HMG-CoA reductase activity was lower in CETP-TG mice compared with non-TG mice when fed a MUFA or a SFA diet. These data demonstrate that the regulation of Cyp7a, HMG-CoA reductase, and MTTP is altered in CETP-TG mice as compared with non-TG mice and these alterations are further modulated by the quality of dietary fats. These findings highlight the importance of CETP in regulating cholesterol homeostasis.

The effect of adlay oil on plasma lipids, insulin and leptin in rat

This study was designed to investigate the effect of dietary adlay oil on plasma lipids, insulin and lipid peroxidation levels in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats fed diet containing adlay oil and cholesterol were studied for 4 weeks. The animals were divided into three groups: (1) 10% lard (control) group; (2) 5% lard + 5% adlay oil (5% adlay oil) group; and (3) 10% adlay oil group. Although there was no significant difference in body weight at the end of the feeding study, rats fed a diet containing adlay oil showed a significant decrease in adipose tissue weight and relative adipose weight. In addition, the rats fed the adlay oil showed significantly decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), insulin, leptin and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations after 4 weeks of the feeding study. Although a significant decrease in total plasma cholesterol was observed in rats fed the 5% adlay oil diet, no significant difference was observed between the 10% adlay oil and control groups, and neither was a significant difference in liver TBARS concentration found between the dietary groups. Results from this study suggest that dietary adlay oil can reduce leptin, adipose tissue and LDL-C levels in rats.

Vitamin A prevents high fat diet-induced ACF development and modifies the pattern of expression of peroxisome proliferator and retinoic acid receptor m-RNA

Some dietary compounds, among them fats, are modulators of colon cancer risk. This study reports the modulating effects of n-6, with or without vitamin A, on promotion of colon preneoplasic lesions induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) and on the expression of nuclear receptors (PPARgamma, RXRalpha, and RARbeta). One group of male Fisher rats was fed a basic diet (5% safflower oil) and two groups were fed a high-fat diet (HFD, 25% safflower oil). Of these, one was supplemented with 200 IU vitamin A for 5 mo. The safflower oil contained polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly linoleic acid (73%). The data showed an increasing effect of safflower oil-enriched diet on aberrant crypt foci occurrence and multiplicity. This effect was impaired by vitamin A supplementation. In addition, an HFD-related up-regulation of PPARgamma and a concomitant down-regulation of RARbeta mRNA expression were observed with or without chemical initiation and were prevented by vitamin A. Moreover, when treated with DMH, HFD rats exhibited a dramatically decreased expression of RXRalpha mRNA (-49%). It was hypothesized that HFD, leading to hyperexpression of PPARgamma, would produce an alteration of retinoic acid signaling and, in this way, create a background modulating colon cancer risk.

Nutritional value of the marine invertebrates Anemonia viridis and Haliothis tuberculata and effects on serum cholesterol concentration in ratsopen star

The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional value of diets with protein from two marine species (Haliotis tuberculata and Anemonia viridis) as compared to a high-quality protein reference based on casein or casein supplemented with olive oil. We also investigated the effects of these diets on serum lipid levels. Male rats were fed these diets for 23 days. Protein quality indicators (true digestibility, net protein utilization, biological value) were similar to those obtained for casein-based feeds except for lower true digestibility and net protein utilization values for the Anemonia viridis feed. HDL-cholesterol level was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the groups fed marine species or casein supplemented with olive oil than in the casein group. Total-cholesterol level was higher in the group fed Haliotis tuberculata fed than in the other groups. These results suggest that these marine species are a good protein source, and that they may have positive effects on serum cholesterol level.