Adipose tissue as an endocrine organ

Amphiphilic cytokine traps remodel marrow adipose tissue for hematopoietic microenvironment amelioration

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is extensively employed in the treatment of hematological malignancies but is markedly constrained by the paucity of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). Recent studies have found that marrow adipose tissue (MAT) acts on hematopoiesis through complicated mechanisms. Therefore, the osteo-organoids fabricated in vivo using biomaterials loaded with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) have been used as models of MAT for our research. To obtain sufficient amounts of therapeutic HSPCs and healthy MAT, we have developed amphiphilic chitosan (AC)-gelatin as carriers of rhBMP-2 to the regulate type conversion of adipose tissue and trap hematopoietic growth factors. Unlike medicine interventions or cell therapies, the traps based on AC not only attenuate the occupancy of adipocytes within the hematopoietic microenvironment while preserving stem cell factor concentrations, but also improve marrow metabolism by promoting MAT browning. In conclusion, this approach increases the proportion of HSPCs in osteo-organoids, and optimizes the composition and metabolic status of MAT. These findings furnish an experimental basis for regulating hematopoiesis in vivo through materials that promote the development of autologous HSPCs. Additionally, this approach presents a theoretical model of rapid adipogenesis for the study of adipose-related pathologies and potential pharmacological targets.

How does exosome cause diabetes?

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that are widely distributed in multiple cell types and circulating body fluids. They have a specific effect on the target cells by releasing different vesicle contents. They have recently been recognized as important means of intercellular communication, being involved, for example, in the development of diabetes by increasing β-cell apoptosis, activating autoimmunity, and regulating cytokines to affect islet β-cell function and insulin sensitivity. An in-depth study of the role of exosome in the pathogenesis of diabetes may therefore provide a novel means of diagnosing and treating diabetes. In this review, we detail how exosome is involved in the development of diabetes.

Risk prediction model of metabolic syndrome in perimenopausal women based on machine learning

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered to be an important parameter of cardio-metabolic health and contributing to the development of atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes. The incidence of MetS significantly increases in postmenopausal women, therefore, the perimenopausal period is considered a critical phase for prevention. We aimed to use four machine learning methods to predict whether perimenopausal women will develop MetS within 2 years.

METHODS

Women aged 45-55 years who underwent 2 consecutive years of physical examinations in Ninth Clinical College of Peking University between January 2021 and December 2022 were included. We extracted 26 features from physical examinations, and used backward selection method to select top 10 features with the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), Random forest (RF), Multilayer perceptron (MLP) and Logistic regression (LR) were used to establish the model. Those performance were measured by AUC, accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score. SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) value was used to identify risk factors affecting perimenopausal MetS.

RESULTS

A total of 8700 women had physical examination records, and 2,254 women finally met the inclusion criteria. For predicting MetS events, RF and XGBoost had the highest AUC (0.96, 0.95, respectively). XGBoost has the highest F1 value (F1 = 0.77), followed by RF, LR and MLP. SHAP value suggested that the top 5 variables affecting MetS in this study were Waist circumference, Fasting blood glucose, High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Triglycerides and Diastolic blood pressure, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We've developed a targeted MetS risk prediction model for perimenopausal women, using health examination data. This model enables early identification of high MetS risk in this group, offering significant benefits for individual health management and wider socio-economic health initiatives.

Association of METS-IR index with depressive symptoms in US adults: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

An association between insulin resistance (IR) and depression has been identified in recent years. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between IR and depression in the general population.

METHODS

The population for this cross-sectional study consisted of adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018. Insulin sensitivity was assessed using the Metabolic Score for IR (METS-IR) index, while depression was evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9. Logistic regression analyses, subgroup analyses, and dose-response curves were conducted to assess the association between the METS-IR index and depression.

RESULTS

A total of 13,157 adults aged over 20 years were included in this study. After adjusting for potential confounders, it was observed that each unit increase in the METS-IR index was associated with a 1.1 percentage point increase in the prevalence of depression (OR = 1.011; 95 % CI: 1.008, 1.014). Patients in the 4th quartile of the METS-IR index had a higher likelihood of depression compared to those in the 1st quartile (OR = 1.386, 95 % CI: 1.239, 1.549). Stratified analyses demonstrated consistent results in all subgroups, except for men, patients under 40 years of age, and those with a history of cancer. Dose-response curves indicated a nonlinear relationship between the METS-IR index and the risk of depression, with an inflection point value of 32.443 according to threshold effect analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that higher METS-IR scores are associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms among U.S. adults.

Effect of lanthanum nitrate on adipogenesis in mice

Lanthanum (La) is widely used in modern industry and agriculture because of its unique physicochemical properties and is broadly exposed in the population. Some studies have shown that La may have some effects on adipogenesis, but there is a lack of related in vivo evidence. In this study, the effects of La(NO3 )3 on adipogenesis and its associated mechanism were studied using C57BL/6J mouse model. The results showed that La(NO3 )3 exposure caused a decrease in body weight and the percentage of fat content in mice. In addition, the adipose marker molecules and specific adipogenic transcription factors decreased in both white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT). Detection of signaling pathway-related molecules revealed that canonical wnt/β-catenin pathway-related molecules were upregulated in both adipose tissues. In summary, in vivo exposure to La(NO3 )3 might inhibited adipogenesis in mice, possibly through upregulation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Infertility Improvement after Medical Weight Loss in Women and Men: A Review of the Literature

Infertility is a modern health problem. Obesity is another expanding health issue associated with chronic diseases among which infertility is also included. This review will focus on the effects of weight loss by medical therapy on fertility regarding reproductive hormonal profile, ovulation rates, time to pregnancy, implantation rates, pregnancy rates, normal embryo development, and live birth rates. We comprised medicine already used for weight loss, such as orlistat and metformin, and emerging medical treatments, such as Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA). Their use is not recommended during a planned pregnancy, and they should be discontinued in such cases. The main outcomes of this literature review are the following: modest weight loss after medication and the duration of the treatment are important factors for fertility improvement. The fecundity outcomes upon which medical-induced weight loss provides significant results are the female reproductive hormonal profile, menstrual cyclicity, ovulation and conception rates, and pregnancy rates. Regarding the male reproductive system, the fertility outcomes that feature significant alterations after medically induced weight loss are as follows: the male reproductive hormonal profile, sperm motility, movement and morphology, weight of reproductive organs, and sexual function. The newer promising GLP-1 RAs show expectations regarding fertility improvement, as they have evidenced encouraging effects on improving ovulation rates and regulating the menstrual cycle. However, more human studies are needed to confirm this. Future research should aim to provide answers about whether medical weight loss therapies affect fertility indirectly through weight loss or by a possible direct action on the reproductive system.

Frozen embryo transfer outcomes decline with increasing female body mass index in female but not male factor infertility: analysis of 56,564 euploid blastocyst transfers

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of body mass index (BMI) with cycle outcomes after euploid frozen blastocyst transfer.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Not applicable.

PATIENT(S)

A total of 56,564 first single autologous euploid frozen embryo transfers from the 2016-2019 Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology database were analyzed using BMI and using World Health Organization BMI cohorts. Subanalyses were performed on cycles among patients with a sole diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (n = 4,626) and among patients with only a male factor (n = 10,854).

INTERVENTION(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Clinical pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and live birth (LB).

RESULT(S)

Success rates and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all outcomes were most favorable among those with normal BMI and progressively worsened with increasing BMI. These trends persisted among patients with PCOS for clinical pregnancy (aOR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-0.997), pregnancy loss (aOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04), and LB (aOR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99), but not among patients with a male factor only for clinical pregnancy (aOR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.99-1.01), pregnancy loss (aOR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.99-1.03), or LB (aOR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-1.00).

CONCLUSION(S)

In the largest cohort to date, increasing BMI was associated with decreased pregnancy and LB and increased pregnancy loss after euploid frozen embryo transfers among the entire cohort and among patients with a sole diagnosis of PCOS; however, these results were attenuated among patients with a sole diagnosis of male factor infertility, suggesting that associated female infertility diagnoses and not BMI alone may underlie this trend.

Adipsin inhibits Irak2 mitochondrial translocation and improves fatty acid β-oxidation to alleviate diabetic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) causes the myocardium to rely on fatty acid β-oxidation for energy. The accumulation of intracellular lipids and fatty acids in the myocardium usually results in lipotoxicity, which impairs myocardial function. Adipsin may play an important protective role in the pathogenesis of DCM. The aim of this study is to investigate the regulatory effect of Adipsin on DCM lipotoxicity and its molecular mechanism.

METHODS

A high-fat diet (HFD)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus model was constructed in mice with adipose tissue-specific overexpression of Adipsin (Adipsin-Tg). Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) pull-down technique, Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and immunofluorescence colocalization analyses were used to investigate the molecules which can directly interact with Adipsin. The immunocolloidal gold method was also used to detect the interaction between Adipsin and its downstream modulator.

RESULTS

The expression of Adipsin was significantly downregulated in the HFD-induced DCM model (P < 0.05). Adipose tissue-specific overexpression of Adipsin significantly improved cardiac function and alleviated cardiac remodeling in DCM (P < 0.05). Adipsin overexpression also alleviated mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation function in diabetic stress (P < 0.05). LC-MS/MS analysis, GST pull-down technique and Co-IP studies revealed that interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase-like 2 (Irak2) was a downstream regulator of Adipsin. Immunofluorescence analysis also revealed that Adipsin was co-localized with Irak2 in cardiomyocytes. Immunocolloidal gold electron microscopy and Western blotting analysis indicated that Adipsin inhibited the mitochondrial translocation of Irak2 in DCM, thus dampening the interaction between Irak2 and prohibitin (Phb)-optic atrophy protein 1 (Opa1) on mitochondria and improving the structural integrity and function of mitochondria (P < 0.05). Interestingly, in the presence of Irak2 knockdown, Adipsin overexpression did not further alleviate myocardial mitochondrial destruction and cardiac dysfunction, suggesting a downstream role of Irak2 in Adipsin-induced responses (P < 0.05). Consistent with these findings, overexpression of Adipsin after Irak2 knockdown did not further reduce the accumulation of lipids and their metabolites in the cardiac myocardium, nor did it enhance the oxidation capacity of cardiomyocytes expose to palmitate (PA) (P < 0.05). These results indicated that Irak2 may be a downstream regulator of Adipsin.

CONCLUSIONS

Adipsin improves fatty acid β-oxidation and alleviates mitochondrial injury in DCM. The mechanism is related to Irak2 interaction and inhibition of Irak2 mitochondrial translocation.

Novel therapeutical approaches based on neurobiological and genetic strategies for diabetic polyneuropathy - A review

BACKGROUND

Neuropathy is among the most often reported consequences of diabetes and the biggest cause of morbidity and mortality in people suffering from this life-long disease. Although different therapeutic methods are available for diabetic neuropathy, it is still the leading cause of limb amputations, and it significantly decreases patients' quality of life.

AIM

This study investigates potential novel therapeutic options that could ameliorate symptoms of DN.

METHODOLOGY

Research and review papers from the last 10 years were taken into consideration.

RESULTS

There are various traditional drugs and non-pharmacological methods used to treat this health condition. However, the research in the area of pathogenic-oriented drugs in the treatment of DN showed no recent breakthroughs, mostly due to the limited evidence about their effectiveness and safety obtained through clinical trials. Consequently, there is an urgent demand for the development of novel therapeutic options for diabetic neuropathy.

CONCLUSION

Some of the latest novel diagnostic methods for diagnosing diabetic neuropathy are discussed as well as the new therapeutic approaches, such as the fusion of neuronal cells with stem cells, targeting gene delivery and novel drugs.

Plasma IL-6, TREM1, uPAR, and IL6/IL8 biomarkers increment further witnessing the chronic inflammation in type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is known to be associated with chronic inflammation, but the inflammatory regulators/markers are not exactly defined and the link between them remains undetermined. The objective of this study is to identify these markers by testing traditional (IL6 & IL8) and non-traditional (TREM1 & uPAR) inflammatory markers.

METHODS

Data and blood samples were obtained from 114 T2D and 74 non-diabetic Kuwaiti subjects attending health facilities in Kuwait. Chemical analyzers were used to measure glycemic and lipid profiles, while ELISA was used to measure plasma levels of insulin and several inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

Showed that the IL-6 and TREM1 were significantly higher in T2D compared to non-diabetic controls, and the uPAR level was borderline higher in T2D but significantly correlated with IL-6 levels. Unexpectedly, IL8 was significantly below normal in T2D and IL6/IL8 ratio was significantly higher in T2D patients. Unlike other tested markers, uPAR was in addition strongly correlated with insulin levels and HOMA-IR index.

CONCLUSIONS

Raised levels of IL6, TREMI, IL6/IL8 ratio, and the strong positive correlation of plasma levels of uPAR with IL-6, insulin, and HOMA-IR index, are reliable spectators of chronic inflammation in T2D patients. The reduced level of IL-8 in T2D was a peculiar observation that needs further explanation. Finally, the consequences and impact of the sustained rise of these inflammatory regulators in diabetic tissues need to be meticulously explored.

Enhancing de novo ceramide synthesis induced by bisphenol A exposure aggravates metabolic derangement during obesity

OBJECTIVE

Exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to increase the prevalence of obesity and its related insulin resistance (IR). Ceramide is a sphingolipid known to facilitate the production of proinflammatory cytokines and subsequently exacerbate inflammation and IR during the progression of obesity. Here, we investigated the effects of BPA exposure on ceramide de novo synthesis and whether increased ceramides aggravate adipose tissue (AT) inflammation and obesity-related IR.

METHODS

A population-based case-control study was conducted to explore the relationship between BPA exposure and IR and the potential role of ceramide in AT in obesity. Next, we used mice reared on a normal chow diet (NCD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) to verify the results from the population study and then investigated the role of ceramides in low-level BPA exposure with HFD-induced IR and AT inflammation in mice treated with or without myriocin (an inhibitor of the rate-limiting enzyme in de novo ceramide synthesis).

RESULTS

BPA levels are higher in obese individuals and are significantly associated with AT inflammation and IR. Specific subtypes of ceramides mediated the associations between BPA and obesity, obesity-related IR and AT inflammation in the obesity group. In animal experiments, BPA exposure facilitated ceramide accumulation in AT, activated PKCζ, promoted AT inflammation, increased the expression and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines via the JNK/NF-κB pathway, and lowered insulin sensitivity by disrupting IRS1-PI3K-AKT signaling in mice fed a HFD. Myriocin suppressed BPA-induced AT inflammation and IR.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that BPA aggravates obesity-induced IR, which is partly via increased de novo synthesis of ceramides and subsequent promotion of AT inflammation. Ceramide synthesis could be a potential target for the prevention of environmental BPA exposure-related metabolic diseases.

Impact of adrenomedullin on mitochondrial respiratory capacity in human adipocyte

Mitochondrial function in adipocyte is an important aspect in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Our previous observation showed that circulating levels of adrenomedullin (ADM) and mRNA and protein for ADM in omental adipose tissue were higher in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and these alterations are accompanied by glucose and lipid metabolic dysregulation, but the impact of ADM on mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration in human adipocyte remain elusive. The present study demonstrated that: (1) Increasing doses of glucose and ADM inhibit human adipocyte mRNA expressions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-encoded subunits of electron transport chain, including nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase (ND) 1 and 2, cytochrome (CYT) b, as well as ATPase 6; (2) ADM significantly increases human adipocyte mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and this increase is reversed by ADM antagonist, ADM22-52, but treatment with ADM does not significantly affect mitochondrial contents in the adipocytes; (3) Adipocyte basal and maximal oxygen consumption rate are dose-dependently suppressed by ADM, thus results in impaired mitochondrial respiratory capacity. We conclude that elevated ADM observed in diabetic pregnancy may be involved in glucose and lipid dysregulation through compromising adipocyte mitochondrial function, and blockade of ADM action may improve GDM-related glucose and adipose tissue dysfunction.

Impact of Adrenomedullin on Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity in Human Adipocyte

For metabolic homeostasis adequate mitochondrial function in adipocytes is essential. Our previous observation showed that circulating levels of adrenomedullin (ADM) and mRNA and protein for ADM in omental adipose tissue were higher in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared with normal pregnancy, and these alterations are accompanied by glucose and lipid metabolic dysregulation, but the impact of ADM on mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration in human adipocyte remain elusive. In this study we demonstrated that: (1) Increasing doses of glucose and ADM inhibit human adipocyte mRNA expressions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-encoded subunits of electron transport chain (ETC), including nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase (ND) 1 and 2, cytochrome (CYT) b, as well as ATPase 6; (2) ADM significantly increases human adipocyte mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and this increase is reversed by ADM antagonist, ADM22-52, but does not significantly affect adipocyte mitochondrial contents; (3) Adipocyte basal and maximal oxygen consumption rate (OCR) are dose-dependently suppressed by ADM, and results in impaired mitochondrial respiratory capacity. We conclude that elevatedADM observed in diabetic pregnancy may be involved in glucose and lipid dysregulation through compromising adipocyte mitochondrial function, and blockade of ADM actions in adipocytes may improve GDM-related metabolic complications.

Lanthanum nitrate inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes with a disorder of mitotic clonal expansion process

Lanthanum (La) as a rare earth element is widely used in agriculture, industry, and medicine. It has been suggested in several studies that La might influence glycolipid metabolism in vivo. In this study, we used 3T3-L1 preadipocytes as in vitro cell model to elucidate the effects of La(NO₃ )₃ on adipogenesis and the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that La(NO₃ )₃ could inhibit the adipogenic differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, which showed a decrease in lipid accumulation and the downregulation of specific adipogenic transcription factors. La(NO₃ )₃ exerted its inhibitory effect mainly at the early differentiation stage. Furthermore, La(NO₃ )₃ influenced the S-phase entry and cell cycle process during the mitotic clonal expansion and regulated the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and expressions of the proteins in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway at the early stage of differentiation. Besides, La(NO₃ )₃ upregulated the expressions of wnt10b mRNA and β-catenin protein and promoted the nucleus translocation of β-catenin. Additionally, we found that La(NO₃ )₃ could promote the growth of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes both with and without MDI (3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine [IBMX], dexamethasone [Dex], and insulin) stimulation. Collectively, these results indicated that La(NO₃ )₃ could inhibit adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and influence cell proliferation.

Curcumin improves metabolic response and increases expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in adipose tissue of male offspring from obese dams

Maternal obesity and dietary style in the pregnancy-lactation period may result in long-term effects on the metabolic health of the offspring, thus increasing the risk of diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has beneficial properties on metabolism. Accordingly, this study is intended to evaluate the effects of curcumin supplementation in pregnant and lactating female mice on the anthropometric, metabolic and molecular parameters of the offspring fed a hyperglycemic diet. The study was conducted with 24 male mice randomized into three groups: i) control group (SD) originating from dams fed a standard diet; ii) hyperglycemic group (HGD) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet; iii) curcumin group (CUR) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet and supplemented with curcumin in the pregnancy-lactation period. All offspring groups were fed a hyperglycemic diet for 12 weeks. Anthropometricand biochemical parameters were measured, as well as the expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in the interscapular brown and inguinal white adipose tissues. The results showed less weight gain in the CUR group, with a concomitant reduction in food consumption compared to the HGD group. Biochemical parameters indicated lower levels of total cholesterol, glucose, and insulin for the CUR group, in addition to improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The molecular evaluation indicated increased mRNA expression levels of UCP1 and PRDM16 in the brown and white adipose tissues. It is concluded that curcumin supplementation in the pregnancy-lactation period in dams with diet-induced obesity may lead to improvements in the offspring's metabolic phenotype, even if they are submitted to an obesogenic environment, possibly via thermogenesis activation.

Association of body mass index and hypoglycemia with mortality rates among sepsis patients: A retrospective sub-analysis of the FORECAST study

Aim

Hypoglycemia at admission is associated with high mortality in sepsis patients. However, the influence of body mass index (BMI) on this association remains unknown. Therefore, this study assesses the association of hypoglycemia at admission with mortality in patients with sepsis according to BMI.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of a multicenter, prospective cohort study of 59 intensive care units in Japan. We included 1184 patients (age ≥16 years) with severe sepsis and excluded those with missing data on glucose level, BMI, or survival at discharge. The initial blood glucose level of <70 mg/dL was defined as hypoglycemia. Patients were assigned to the hypoglycemia or non-hypoglycemia group as per BMI category (<18.5 [low], 18.5-24.9 [normal], and ≥25 [high] kg/m2). The main outcome was in-hospital mortality. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate BMI category-by-hypoglycemia interactions.

Results

Overall, 1103 patients, including 65 with hypoglycemia, were analyzed. In the normal BMI group, patients with hypoglycemia had a higher in-hospital mortality rate (18/38, 47.4%) than those without (119/584, 20.4%). There was a significant interaction between normal BMI and hypoglycemia affecting in-hospital mortality; however, this effect was not observed for other BMI categories (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-5.07; p-value for interaction = 0.0476).

Conclusion

The relationship between patients with sepsis and hypoglycemia on admission may differ according to BMI. Hypoglycemia on admission may be associated with high mortality in patients with normal BMI, but not in those with low or high BMI.

Abnormal lipid metabolism in cancer-associated cachexia and potential therapy strategy

Cancer-associated cachexia (CAC) is a major characteristic of advanced cancer, associates with almost all types of cancer. Recent studies have found that lipopenia is an important feature of CAC, and it even occurs earlier than sarcopenia. Different types of adipose tissue are all important in the process of CAC. In CAC patients, the catabolism of white adipose tissue (WAT) is increased, leading to an increase in circulating free fatty acids (FFAs), resulting in " lipotoxic". At the same time, WAT also is induced by a variety of mechanisms, browning into brown adipose tissue (BAT). BAT is activated in CAC and greatly increases energy expenditure in patients. In addition, the production of lipid is reduced in CAC, and the cross-talk between adipose tissue and other systems, such as muscle tissue and immune system, also aggravates the progression of CAC. The treatment of CAC is still a vital clinical problem, and the abnormal lipid metabolism in CAC provides a new way for the treatment of CAC. In this article, we will review the mechanism of metabolic abnormalities of adipose tissue in CAC and its role in treatment.

Differences in metabonomic profiles of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that often coexists with a metabolic disorder. Studies have demonstrated that the malfunction of adipose tissue, particularly abdominal adipose tissue, could exacerbate reproductive and metabolic problems in PCOS patients. Adipose tissue-secreted signaling mediators (e.g., lipids and metabolites) would then interact with other body organs, including the ovary, to maintain the systemic equilibrium.

METHODS

In this study, we examined adipose samples from PCOS patients and unaffected individuals using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabonomics approach (LC-MS/MS). PCOS biomarkers were selected using multivariate statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Our pathway analysis revealed that these differential metabolites could be engaged in inflammatory diseases and mitochondrial beta-oxidation. We further developed an in vitro PCOS cell model to examine the effects of hyperandrogenism on granulosa cells and related metabolic disorders. We noted that isoleucine recovered the promotive effect on cell apoptosis, inhibitory effect on cell proliferation, sex hormone secretion, and mitochondrial function induced by dehydroepiandrosterone. Our gas chromatography-mass spectrometry targeted analysis (GC-MS/MS) revealed that isoleucine was significantly decreased in PCOS patients.

DISCUSSION

Based on these results, we speculate that metabolome alterations are vital in ameliorating PCOS symptoms. This may be a novel therapeutic target for PCOS treatment. Our study provides preliminary evidence that these findings will enhance our ability to accurately diagnose and intervene in PCOS.

Bioactive dietary components-Anti-obesity effects related to energy metabolism and inflammation

Obesity is the result of the long-term energy imbalance between the excess calories consumed and the few calories expended. Reducing the intake of energy dense foods (fats, sugars), and strategies such as fasting and caloric restriction can promote body weight loss. Not only energy in terms of calories, but also the specific composition of the diet can affect the way the food is absorbed and how its energy is stored, used or dissipated. Recent research has shown that bioactive components of food, such as polyphenols and vitamins, can influence obesity and its pathologic complications such as insulin resistance, inflammation and metabolic syndrome. Individual micronutrients can influence lipid turnover but for long-term effects on weight stability, dietary patterns containing several micronutrients may be required. At the molecular level, these molecules modulate signaling and the expression of genes that are involved in the regulation of energy intake, lipid metabolism, adipogenesis into white, beige and brown adipose tissue, thermogenesis, lipotoxicity, adipo/cytokine synthesis, and inflammation. Higher concentrations of these molecules can be reached in the intestine, where they can modulate the composition and action of the microbiome. In this review, the molecular mechanisms by which bioactive compounds and vitamins modulate energy metabolism, inflammation and obesity are discussed.

Metabolic Disorders in Menopause

Menopause is an aging process and an important time equivalent to one-third of a woman's lifetime. Menopause significantly increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD)/metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MFFLD), and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Women experience a variety of symptoms in the perimenopausal period, and these symptoms are distressing for most women. Many factors worsen a woman's menopausal experience, and controlling these factors may be a strategy to improve postmenopausal women's health. This review aimed to confirm the association between menopause and metabolic diseases (especially MetS), including pathophysiology, definition, prevalence, diagnosis, management, and prevention.

Obesity, inflammation, and cancer in dogs: Review and perspectives

Obesity is the most common nutritional disease in dogs, and its prevalence has increased in recent decades. Several countries have demonstrated a prevalence of obesity in dogs similar to that observed in humans. Chronic low-grade inflammation is a prominent basis used to explain how obesity results in numerous negative health consequences. This is well known and understood, and recent studies have pointed to the association between obesity and predisposition to specific types of cancers and their complications. Such elucidations are important because, like obesity, the prevalence of cancer in dogs has increased in recent decades, establishing cancer as a significant cause of death for these animals. In the same way, intensive advances in technology in the field of human and veterinary medicine (which even proposes the use of animal models) have optimized existing therapeutic methods, led to the development of innovative treatments, and shortened the time to diagnosis of cancer. Despite the great challenges, this review aims to highlight the evidence obtained to date on the association between obesity, inflammation, and cancer in dogs, and the possible pathophysiological mechanisms that link obesity and carcinogenesis. The potential to control cancer in animals using existing knowledge is also presented.

Effect of flavonoid intake on circulating levels of adiponectin and leptin: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to explore the effects of flavonoid intake on adiponectin and leptin levels. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched on March 1, 2021. Random-effects, subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses were conducted on 40 publications. Flavonoid intake significantly increased circulating adiponectin (0.54 μg/ml, 95% CI [0.20, 0.88], p = .002; I²  = 86.4%) and significantly reduced leptin levels (weighted mean difference: -0.79 ng/ml, 95% CI [-1.33, -0.25], p = .004; I²  = 87.7%). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that flavonoid intervention produced a significant elevation in adiponectin levels only in studies that lasted more than 12 weeks, conducted in Asian regions, were parallel-designed, involved obese or overweight participants and participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or cardiovascular diseases, used tea catechins, and used a dietary supplement intervention. A significantly negative effect on leptin levels was observed in studies conducted in Asian countries, with healthy participants and participants with T2DM, used whole food interventions, and involved participants with lower baseline leptin levels. In conclusion, flavonoid intake significantly increased circulating adiponectin and decreased leptin levels; however, study heterogeneity was very high. Future well-designed trials are required to address heterogeneous study designs and clarify the efficacy of plants in regulating adiponectin and leptin levels.

High Visceral Fat is Associated with a Worse Survival after Liver Resection for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

The impact of body composition (BC) on the prognosis of resected intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) has been poorly studied. Aims: i) to evaluate the prevalence of low muscle mass (MM) in patients; ii) to assess the impact of BC on patient overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), and iii) on the incidence of postoperative complications. All consecutive patients who underwent liver resection for ICC between 2004 and 2016 and who had preoperative CT scans were included. Ninety-three patients were included. Sixty percent (55/91) had low total MM. On multivariable analysis, high visceral fat (HR 2.48, CI95% [1.63; 3.77], p < 0.0001), nodules >1 (HR 3.15 [1.67; 5.93], p = 0.0004), involvement adjacent organ (HR 6.67 [1.88; 23.69], p = 0.003), and postoperative sepsis (HR 3.04 [1.54; 5.99], p = 0.0013) were independently associated with OS. High visceral fat (HR 2.10 [1.31; 3.38], p = 0.002], nodules >1 (HR 3.01, [1.49; 6.10], p = 0.002), postoperative sepsis (HR 5.16 [2.24; 11.89], p = 0.0001), ASA score (p = 0.02) and perineural invasion (HR 3.30 [1.62; 6.76], p = 0.001) were independently associated with lower DFS. Conclusion: 60% of ICC patients had low MM before surgery. High visceral fat, but not muscle mass, was an independent prognostic factor for poor OS and DFS in European patients with resected ICC.

The programming effect of parenteral obesity on the structural and mechanical properties of femora in female rats fed a varied calorie diet during puberty

The study was aimed to ascertain whether continuation or change in the offspring of the diet consumed by the parents modulates, in later life, the previously programmed bone metabolism. We used adult Wistar rats (16 males; 32 females), divided into groups that were fed either a standard (diet S) or a high-energy (diet F). After 90 days of obesity induction, the rats were submitted to obtain female offspring from parents S and F. The offspring stayed with their mothers until 21 days of age (weaning day). Our previous studies have proved the programming effects of parental obesity on the skeletal system of their offspring at the age of 21 days. Weaned female offspring were divided into groups: S/S-parents and offspring fed the S diet; S/F-parents fed the S diet and offspring fed the F diet; F/S-parents fed the diet F and offspring with the diet S; F/F-parents and offspring fed the F diet (F/F). After sacrifice, isolated femurs were assessed by peripheral quantitative computed tomography and by a three-point bending test. The bones were examined at 49 and 90 days of life. We found that nutritional programming has a significant influence on the development and metabolism of the skeletal system in females during growth and maturity. Moreover, the modification of nutrition alters the metabolism of bone tissue, and the osteotropic effects vary depending on the nature of the change, as well as the stage of development. Reducing the caloric content of the diet inhibits the mineralization and decreases the mechanical strength of the bones while increasing the caloric content of the diet has a beneficial osteotropic effect.

Association of Lean Body Mass and Fat Mass With 1-Year Mortality Among Patients With Heart Failure

Background

Prior studies have found an unexplained inverse or U-shaped relationship between body mass index (BMI) and mortality in heart failure (HF) patients. However, little is known about the independent effects of each body component, i.e., lean body mass (LBM) and fat mass (FM), on mortality.

Methods

We used data from the China Patient-centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events-Prospective Heart Failure Study. LBM and FM were calculated using equations developed from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. LBM and FM index, calculated by dividing LBM or FM in kilograms by the square of height in meters, were used for analysis. We used restricted cubic spline and Cox model to examine the association of LBM and FM index with 1-year all-cause mortality.

Results

Among 4,305 patients, median (interquartile range) age was 67 (57–76) years, 37.7% were women. During the 1-year follow-up, 691 (16.1%) patients died. After adjustments, LBM index was inversely associated with mortality in a linear way (P-overall association &lt; 0.01; P-non-linearity = 0.52), but no association between FM index and mortality was observed (P-overall association = 0.19). Compared with patients in the 1st quartile of the LBM index, those in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartiles had lower risk of death, with hazard ratio of 0.80 (95% CI 0.66–0.97), 0.65 (95% CI 0.52–0.83), and 0.61 (95% CI 0.45–0.82), respectively. In contrast, this association was not observed between FM index quartiles and mortality.

Conclusion

Higher LBM, not FM, was associated with lower 1-year mortality among HF patients.

Identifying Key Genes and Functionally Enriched Pathways of Diverse Adipose Tissue Types in Cattle

Background: Fat is a tissue that not just stores energy and plays a protective role; it is also a vital endocrine organ that generates and integrates signals to influence metabolism. Meanwhile, the excessive accumulation of lipids in adipose tissue can lead to metabolic disturbance and diseases. To date, the complicated molecular mechanisms of bovine adipose tissue are still unknown. This study aimed to identify key genes and functionally enriched pathways in various adipose tissue types.

Results: The RNAseq data of 264 samples were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and analyzed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). We identified 19 modules that significantly associated with at least one adipose tissue type. The brown module from GSE39618 was most closely associated with intramuscular fat tissue, which contained 550 genes. These genes were significantly enriched in pathways that related to inflammation and disease, such as TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and NF-kappa B signaling pathway. The pink module (GSE39618) that contained 58 genes was most closely associated with omental fat tissue. The turquoise (GSE39618), blue (GSE116775), and yellow (GSE65125) module were most closely associated with subcutaneous fat tissue. Genes in these modules were significantly enriched in pathways related to fat metabolism, such as the PPAR signaling pathway, fatty acid metabolism and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. At last, key genes for intramuscular fat (PTGS2 and IL6), omental fat (ARHGEF5 and WT1), and subcutaneous fat (KIT, QR6Q1, PKD2L1, etc.) were obtained and verified. In addition, it was found that IL10 and VCAM1 might be potential genes to distinguish adipose and muscle.

Conclusion: The study applied WGCNA to generate a landscape of adipose tissue and provide a basis for identifying potential pathways and hub genes of different adipose tissue types.

The relation of omentin gene expression and glucose homeostasis of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissues in non-diabetic adults

BACKGROUND

Adipose tissue (AT) is a passive reservoir for energy storage and an active endocrine organ responsible for synthesizing bioactive molecules called adipokines. Omentin is known as an anti-inflammatory adipokine that can modulate insulin sensitivity. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between omentin mRNA expression and glucose homeostasis of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in non-diabetic adults.

METHODS

VAT and SAT adipose tissues were collected from 137 adults aged ≥ 18 years hospitalized for abdominal surgery. Before surgery, preoperative blood samples were taken from the participants to measure fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and triglyceride. BMI, HOMA-IR, HOMA-B, and QUICKI were calculated. Insulin levels were measured with Mercodia kits using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In order to obtain omentin mRNA expression, real-time PCR was performed.

RESULTS

Overall, 91 (66.4%) subjects were healthy [without insulin resistance (IR)], and 46 (33.6%) participants were with IR. In healthy and IR subjects, omentin gene expression was 1.04 and 2.32, respectively in VAT, and 3.06 and 1.30, respectively, in SAT (P > 0.05). After controlling for age and BMI, linear regression analysis indicated a significant positive association of SAT omentin expression with insulin concentration (β = 0.048; 95% CI 0.009, 0.088, P = 0.017) and HOMA-IR (β = 0.173; 95% CI 0.023, 0.323, P = 0.014). Moreover, a negative association of SAT omentin expression with HOMA-B (β = - 0.001; 95% CI 0.002, - 0.001, P < 0.001) was observed.

CONCLUSION

This study's finding confirms a direct association between IR with omentin mRNA levels in SAT. Besides, the indicator of insulin sensitivity had an inverse association with omentin gene expression in SAT. This aspect of research suggests that omentin secretion from SAT has a strong link with insulin regulation.

Impact of protocatechuic acid on high fat diet-induced metabolic syndrome sequelae in rats

The study aimed to assess the possible protective impact of protocatechuic acid (PCA) on high fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic syndrome (Mets) sequelae in rats. Forty-two male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly grouped as follows: CTR group; PCA group; HFD group; HFD-PCA group and HFD-MET group. Rats were fed on standard diet or HFD for 14 weeks. HFD-fed rats exhibited significant decreases in food intake and adiponectin (ADP) level; yet, body weight and anthropometrical parameters were significantly increased. Moreover, insulin sensitivity was impaired as indicated by significant elevation in glucose AUC during oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), fasting serum glucose, fasting serum insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index. Furthermore, chronic HFD feeding elicited significant increases in serum lipid profile and free fatty acids (FFAs) with concomitant hepatic steatosis. Additionally, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 1b (Il-1b) and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1(MCP-1) levels were increased. Also, HFD-fed rats exhibited an increase in MDA level, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) activities were decreased. Moreover, the insulin-signaling pathway was markedly impaired in soleus muscles as indicated by a decrease in insulin-induced AKT phosphorylation. Histopathologically, adipose tissues showed significant increase in adipocyte size. Also, flow cytometry analysis of adipose tissue confirmed a significant increase in the percentage of number of CD68+ cells. PCA administration succeeded to attenuate HFD-induced obesity, insulin resistance, oxidative stress and inflammation. In conclusion, PCA administration could protect against HFD-induced Mets, possibly via its hypoglycemic, insulin-sensitizing, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Adipokines in metabolic and reproductive functions in birds: An overview of current knowns and unknowns

Adipose tissue is now recognized as an active endocrine organ, which synthesizes and secretes numerous peptides factors called adipokines. In mammals, they exert pleiotropic effects affecting energy metabolism but also fertility. In mammals, secretion of adipokines is altered in adipose tissue dysfunctions and may participate to obesity-associated disorders. Thus, adipokines are promising candidates both for novel pharmacological treatment strategies and as diagnostic tools. As compared to mammals, birds exhibit several unique physiological features, which make them an interesting model for comparative studies on endocrine control of metabolism and adiposity and reproductive functions. Some adipokines such as leptin and visfatin may have different roles in avian species as compared to mammals. In addition, some of them found in mammals such as CCL2 (chemokine ligand 2), resistin, omentin and FGF21 (Fibroblast Growth factor 21) have not yet been mapped to the chicken genome model and among its annotated gene models. This brief review aims to summarize data (structure, metabolic and reproductive roles and molecular mechanisms involved) related to main avian adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, visfatin, and chemerin) and we will briefly discuss the adipokines that are still lacking in avian species.

Associations of apelin, leptin, irisin, ghrelin, insulin, glucose levels, and lipid parameters with physical activity during eight weeks of regular exercise training

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate the effects of 8 weeks of basketball training on apelin, leptin, irisin, ghrelin, insulin, glucose, and blood lipids among basketball players.

METHODS

The exercise groups were given 2 h of basketball training for 5 d a week and for 8 weeks. The control group was randomly selected among the adolescents who did not regularly exercise.

RESULTS

The apelin and ghrelin levels significantly increased; however, leptin, irisin, and insulin levels statistically decreased in the post-exercise group compared to the other groups (p < .05). The results suggest low levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) parameters (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that after 8 weeks of chronic exercise training, apelin and ghrelin levels increased; in contrast, leptin, irisin, and insulin levels decreased. The decrease in leptin and irisin levels is compatible with the pattern of decrease in the lipid levels as a result of chronic exercise.

The consequences of a high-calorie diet background before calorie restriction on skeletal muscles in a mouse model

The beneficial effects of calorie restriction (CR) are numerous. However, there is no scientific evidence about how a high-calorie diet (HCD) background influences the mechanisms underlying CR on skeletal muscles in an experimental mouse model. Herein we present empirical evidence showing significant interactions between HCD (4 months) and CR (3 months). Pectoralis major and quadriceps femoris vastus medialis, in the experimental and control groups, displayed metabolic and physiologic heterogeneity and remarkable plasticity, according to the dietary interventions. HCD-CR not only altered genetic activation patterns of satellite SC markers but also boosted the expression of myogenic regulatory factors and key activators of mitochondrial biogenesis, which in turn were also associated with metabolic fiber transition. Our data prompt us to theorize that the effects of CR may vary according to the physiologic, metabolic, and genetic peculiarities of the skeletal muscle described here and that INTM/IM lipid infiltration and tissue-specific fuel-energy status (demand/supply) both hold dependent-interacting roles with other key anti-aging mechanisms triggered by CR. Systematic integration of an HCD with CR appears to bring potential benefits for skeletal muscle function and energy metabolism. However, at this stage of our research, an optimal balance between the two dietary conditions, where anti-aging effects can be accomplished, is under intensive investigation in combination with other tissues and organs at different levels of organization within the organ system.

Associations between low body mass index and mortality in patients with sepsis: A retrospective analysis of a cohort study in Japan

Background

The distribution of body mass in populations of Western countries differs from that of populations of East Asian countries. In East Asian countries, fewer people have a high body mass index than those in Western countries. In Japan, the country with the highest number of older adults worldwide, many people have a low body mass index. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between a low body mass index and mortality in patients with sepsis in Japan.

Methods

We conducted this retrospective analysis of 548 patients with severe sepsis from a multicenter prospective observational study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses determined the association between body mass index and 28-day mortality adjusted for age, sex, pre-existing conditions, the occurrence of septic shock, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores. Furthermore, the association between a low body mass index and 28-day mortality was analyzed.

Results

The low body mass index group represented 18.8% of the study population (103/548); the normal body mass index group, 57.3% (314/548); and the high body mass index group, 23.9% (131/548), with the 28-day mortality rates being 21.4% (22/103), 11.2% (35/314), and 14.5% (19/131), respectively. In the low body mass index group, the crude and adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for 28-day mortality relative to the non-low body mass index (normal and high body mass index groups combined) group were 2.0 (1.1–3.4) and 2.3 (1.2–4.2), respectively.

Conclusion

A low body mass index was found to be associated with a higher 28-day mortality than the non-low body mass index in patients with sepsis in Japan. Given that older adults often have a low body mass index, these patients should be monitored closely to reduce the occurrence of negative outcomes.

Electroacupuncture facilitates M2 macrophage polarization and its potential role in the regulation of inflammatory response

The underlying mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) in relieving obesity, anti-inflammation and the interaction with metabolic pathways in obese mice has not been elaborated. The aim of this study was to investigate the regulation of EA on macrophage polarization in obesity tissue of diet-induced obesity mice. Mice were divided in 6 groups: normal control group, model group, EA-7 group, EA-14 group, EA-21 group and EA-28 group. Low-frequency EA was applied at "Tianshu (ST 25)", "Guanyuan (CV 4)", "Zusanli (ST 36)" and "Sanyinjiao (SP 6)" for 10 min. Adipose tissue was assessed with hematoxylin and eosin staining. Adipocytokines and pro-inflammatory factors expression was measured by ELISA. The protein and mRNA levels of macrophage markers were examined by immumohistochemical staining and RT-PCR, respectively. EA treatment was associated with a decrease of adipose tissue and large adipocytes, and an increase of small adipocytes. After EA treatment, the levels of Leptin, Chemerin, TNF-α, F4/80, iNOS, and CD11c decreased obviously in adipose tissue, while IL-4, IL-10 and CD206 levels increased significantly. Besides, TNF-α in spleen tissue was also downregulated, but IL-4 and IL-10 were upregulated. EA prevents weight gain through modulation inflammatory response and macrophage polarization in obese adipose tissues.

Cyr61 from adipose-derived stem cells promotes colorectal cancer metastasis and vasculogenic mimicry formation via integrin αV β5

Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) play a vital role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, but the mechanism remains largely unknown. Herein, we found that ADSCs isolated from CRC patients produced more cysteine‐rich 61 (Cyr61) than those from healthy donors, and the elevated serum Cyr61 levels were associated with advanced TNM stages. Moreover, serum Cyr61 displayed a better diagnostic value for CRC compared to carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen (CA19‐9). Mechanistically, integrin α_Vβ₅ was identified as the functional receptor by which Cyr61 promotes CRC cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo by activating the α_Vβ₅/FAK/NF‐κB signaling pathway. In addition, Cyr61 promotes vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation, thereby promoting tumor growth and metastasis through a α_Vβ₅/FAK/HIF‐1α/STAT3/MMP2 signaling cascade. Histologically, xenografts and clinical samples of CRC both exhibited VM, which was correlated with HIF‐1α and MMP2 activation. Notably, we demonstrated the synergistic effect of combined anti‐VM therapy (integrin α_Vβ₅ inhibitor) and anti‐VEGF therapy (bevacizumab) in patient‐derived xenograft models. Further investigation showed that CRC cell‐derived exosomal STAT3 promoted Cyr61 transcription in ADSCs. These findings indicate that Cyr61 derived from ADSCs plays a critical role in promoting CRC progression via integrin α_Vβ₅ and provides a novel antitumor strategy by targeting Cyr61/α_Vβ₅.

Resistance exercise training improves glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin secretion in C57BL/6 mice

Resistance exercise exerts beneficial effects on glycemic control, which could be mediated by exercise-induced humoral factors released in the bloodstream. Here, we used C57Bl/6 healthy mice, submitted to resistance exercise training for 10 weeks. Trained mice presented higher muscle weight and maximum voluntary carrying capacity, combined with reduced body weight gain and fat deposition. Resistance training improved glucose tolerance and reduced glycemia, with no alterations in insulin sensitivity. In addition, trained mice displayed higher insulinemia in fed state, associated with increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Islets from trained mice showed reduced expression of genes related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, associated with increased expression of Ins2. INS-1E beta-cells incubated with serum from trained mice displayed similar pattern of insulin secretion and gene expression than isolated islets from trained mice. When exposed to CPA (an ER stress inducer), the serum from trained mice partially preserved the secretory function of INS-1E cells, and prevented CPA-induced apoptosis. These data suggest that resistance training, in healthy mice, improves glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin secretion, which could be driven, at least in part, by humoral factors.

Activation of central galanin receptor 2 mitigated insulin resistance in adipocytes of diabetic rats

PURPOSE

Our and other's studies showed that administration of neuropeptide galanin may mitigate insulin resistance via promoting glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) expression and translocation in rats. The objective of this study is to investigate whether galanin receptor 2 (GAL2-R) in brain mediates the ameliorative effect of galanin on insulin resistance in adipose tissues of type 2 diabetic rats.

METHODS

In this study galanin, GAL2-R agonist M1145 and GAL2-R antagonist M871 were respectively or cooperatively injected into intracerebroventricles of type 2 diabetic rats once a day for successive fifteen days. Then the plasma and fat tissues of rats were used to estimate the alterations of insulin resistance indexes.

RESULTS

The central administration of galanin enhanced 2-deoxy-[³H]-D-glucose, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and adiponectin levels, food intake and body weight, GLUT4 mRNA expression and GLUT4 concentration in plasma membranes, as well as homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance index. Those effects of galanin may be blocked by M817, and imitated by M1145 except for food intake and body weight.

CONCLUSION

Those results suggest that central GAL2-R mediates the beneficial effects of galanin on insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic rats. GAL2-R agonist may be taken as a potential antidiabetic agent to treat insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Programming Effect of the Parental Obesity on the Skeletal System of Offspring at Weaning Day

Simple Summary

Overweight and obesity can cause many diseases, and several studies indicate a close relationship between the obesity of parents and the health of their offspring. Our aim was to investigate whether there is a programming influence of parental obesity on the skeletal system in weaned female and male offspring rats. In undertaking this, analysis of bone material was carried out using isolated tibia, and densitometry (DXA), peripheral (pQCT) and micro (µCT) computed tomography were performed. Mechanical tests and blood serum biochemistry were also carried out. Our work showed a significant programming influence of parental obesity on neonatal skeletal development. The tibiae isolated from offspring originating from obese parents were characterized by more intense mineralization and higher fracture resistance. However, numerous studies demonstrate the destructive effect of obesity on the skeletal system. Our research and the available literature suggest the existence of a “fat threshold”, the exceeding of which changes of the osteotropic effect of adipose tissue to become unfavorable. Therefore, there is a need for further research to determine the time-dependent metabolic relationship between adipose tissue and bone in both animals and humans.

Abstract

Our study aimed to verify the hypothesis of the existence of a programming effect of parental obesity on the growth, development and mineralization of the skeletal system in female and male rat offspring on the day of weaning. The study began with the induction of obesity in female and male rats of the parental generation, using a high-energy diet (group F). Females and males of the control group received the standard diet (group S). After 90 days of dietary-induced obesity, the diet in group F was changed into the standard. Rats from groups F and S were mated to obtain offspring which stayed with their mothers until 21 days of age. Tibia was tested using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), micro-computed tomography (µCT) and mechanical strength using the three-point bending test. Biochemical analysis of blood serum bone metabolism markers was performed. DXA analysis showed higher tibia bone mineral content (BMC) and area. pQCT measurements of cortical and trabecular tissue documented the increase of the volumetric bone mineral density and BMC of both bone compartments in offspring from the F group, while µCT of the trabecular tissue showed an increase in trabecular thickness and a decrease of its separation. Parental obesity, hence, exerts a programming influence on the development of the skeletal system of the offspring on the day of the weaning, which was reflected in the intensification of mineralization and increased bone strength.

Profiling of RNA N 6 -Methyladenosine Methylation Reveals the Critical Role of m6A in Chicken Adipose Deposition

One of the main objectives of broiler breeding is to prevent excessive abdominal adipose deposition. The role of RNA modification in adipose deposition is not clear. This study was aimed to map m⁶A modification landscape in chicken adipose tissue. MeRIP-seq was performed to compare the differences in m⁶A methylation pattern between fat and lean broilers. We found that start codons, stop codons, coding regions, and 3′-untranslated regions were generally enriched for m⁶A peaks. The high m⁶A methylated genes (fat birds vs. lean birds) were primarily associated with fatty acid biosynthesis and fatty acid metabolism, while the low m⁶A methylated genes were mainly involved in processes associated with development. Furthermore, we found that the mRNA levels of many genes may be regulated by m⁶A modification. This is the first comprehensive characterization of m⁶A patterns in the chicken adipose transcriptome, and provides a basis for studying the role of m⁶A modification in fat deposition.

Effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on three salivary adipokines in diabetic patients with periodontitis

Background. This study investigated the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on clinical indices and salivary levels of visfatin, chemerin, and progranulin in diabetic patients with periodontitis.

Methods. This interventional clinical trial was performed on 20 patients with type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis (periodontitis stages II or III according to the new classification of periodontal diseases). Clinical indices, including gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and plaque index (PI), were recorded and visfatin, chemerin, and progranulin adipokines levels were also measured in unstimulated saliva by ELISA technique at baseline and twelve weeks after non-surgical periodontal treatment.

Results. GI dropped from 1.92±0.27 to 0.71±0.14 after the intervention (P<0.001). Also, there were significant changes in the PPD and PI (P<0.001). However, no significant changes were observed in the CAL (P<0.05). The concentrations of all three salivary adipokines decreased after treatment, but this change was statistically significant only for progranulin (P<0.05).

Conclusion. Non-surgical periodontal therapy resulted in improvements in the clinical indices of GI, PPD, and PI in T2DM patients with periodontitis. Moreover, the significant reduction in the salivary level of progranulin after treatment suggests that it might be considered a target inflammatory marker in periodontal diseases.

Measuring Visceral Adipose Tissue Metabolic Activity in Sleep Apnea Utilizing Hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MRI: A Pilot Study

PURPOSE

Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is proinflammatory and is associated with cardiovascular (CV) disease. We investigated the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) metabolic activity in a pilot group of patients using positron-emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) with ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) tracer as a novel marker of adipose tissue inflammation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed patients from an ongoing study, recruiting those with newly diagnosed, untreated OSA (Respiratory Disturbance Index [RDI] ≥ 5), using home sleep apnea testing (WatchPAT-200 Central-Plus). PET/MRI scans were acquired before continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)-initiation, and after 3 months of CPAP therapy. Adipose tissue metabolic activity (¹⁸F-FDG-uptake) was measured using standardized uptake values (SUV) within the adipose tissue depots. The primary outcome was VAT SUVmean, and secondary outcomes included VAT volume, and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) volume/SUVmean. Reproducibility and reliability of outcome measures were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Multivariable linear regression was used to evaluate the association between OSA and primary/secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Our analytical sample (n = 16) was 81% male (mean age 47 ± 15 years, mean BMI of 29.9 ± 4.8kg/m²). About 56% had moderate to severe OSA (mean RDI 23 ± 6 events/hour), and 50% were adherent to CPAP. We demonstrated excellent inter/intra-rater reliability and reproducibility for the primary and secondary outcomes. Patients with moderate-to-severe OSA had a higher VAT SUV mean compared to those with mild OSA (0.795 ± 0.154 vs 0.602 ± 0.19, p = 0.04). OSA severity was positively associated with VAT SUVmean (primary outcome), adjusted for age and BMI (B [SE] = 0.013 ± 0.005, p = 0.03). Change in VAT volume was inversely correlated with CPAP adherence in unadjusted analysis (B [SE] = -48.4 ± 18.7, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Derangements in VAT metabolic activity are implicated in adverse cardiometabolic outcomes and may be one of the key drivers of CV risk in OSA. Our results are hypothesis-generating, and suggest that VAT should be investigated in future studies using multi-modal imaging to understand its role as a potential mediator of adverse cardiometabolic risk in OSA.

Adipose tissue dysregulation at the onset of psychosis: Adipokines and social determinants of health

Recent evidence suggests that patients with psychotic disorders have metabolic disturbances (e.g., insulin resistance, dyslipidemia) at the onset of the disease and before antipsychotic exposure. Such disturbances are strongly associated with adipose tissue dysregulation. Measuring adipokines, the molecular mediators of adipose function, could provide a picture of the state of metabolic regulation at the onset of psychosis. The present study explores adipokine changes in a population of first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients with minimal prior exposure to antipsychotics. The effects of social determinants of health (childhood trauma and minority status) associated with both metabolic and psychotic disorders were studied as potential determinants of this phenomenon. Data was collected through the Signature project, a biobank of clinical, socio-demographic, and biological markers. Adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, resistin and chemerin) were measured in serum of FEP patients with minimal exposure to antipsychotics (N = 48) and controls (N = 39). Data were analyzed with univariate (t-tests) and multivariate (linear regression) statistical methods. Patients, compared to controls, had significantly higher levels of adiponectin and resistin, and significantly lower levels of leptin and chemerin. These results persisted after controlling for sex, waist-to-height ratio, childhood trauma, and visible minority status. Adiponectin and chemerin retained their effects after further controlling for tobacco and depression. Resistin increased with childhood trauma scores; chemerin was higher in visible minority patients. Adipose tissue dysfunction is present in FEP patients, before exposure to antipsychotics. Social determinants of health contribute to adipose (and metabolic) dysregulation in FEP, but may not be the main determinants of this relationship.

D-Chiro-Inositol Regulates Insulin Signaling in Human Adipocytes

D-Chiro-Inositol (D-Chiro-Ins) is a secondary messenger in the insulin signaling pathway. D-Chiro-Ins modulates insulin secretion, the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and glycogen storage. Due to these actions D-Chiro-Ins has been proposed to correct defective insulin function in a variety of conditions characterized by metabolic dysfunction, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, gestational diabetes and fat accumulation at menopause. Since it is unclear whether D-Chiro-Ins directly acts on adipocytes, we aimed to study D-Chiro-Ins's actions on adipocyte viability, proliferation, differentiation, and insulin-related protein expression using a human adipocyte cell line derived from Simpson-Golabi-Behmel Syndrome (SGBS) which fully differentiates to mature adipocytes. Throughout differentiation, cells were treated with D-Chiro-Ins, 17β-estradiol (E2) or Insulin. Cell viability and proliferation were not affected by D-Chiro-Ins, then D-Chiro-Ins promoted cell differentiation only during the final days of the process, while E2 enhanced it from the first phases. D-Chiro-Ins stimulated lipid storage and the production of big lipid droplets, thus reducing the content of free fatty acids. We also found that D-Chiro-Ins, either alone or in combination with insulin and E2 increased the expression and activation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS1) and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4). In conclusion, this work shows that D-Chiro-Ins plays a direct role in the differentiation and in the function of human adipocytes, where it synergizes with insulin and estrogen through the recruitment of signal transduction pathways involved in lipid and glucose storage. These findings give clear insights to better understand the actions of D-Chiro-Ins on fat metabolism in women in physiology and in a variety of diseases.

The association of euploid miscarriage with obesity

Objective

To determine whether the frequency of euploid miscarriage is increased in obese women with early pregnancy loss.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Patient(s)

A total of 2,620 women with cytogenetic analysis results from products of conception after a pregnancy loss <20 weeks gestation from 2006–2018.

Intervention(s)

None.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Frequency of euploid miscarriage was compared in obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m²) versus non-obese (BMI <30 kg/m²) patients.

Result(s)

A total of 2,620 women with a mean (± standard deviation) age at time of loss of 34.9 years (± 4.9) and mean (± standard deviation) BMI of 25.3 kg/m² (±5.5) were included in the final analysis. After adjusting for age and race, obese women were 56% more likely to have a euploid pregnancy loss compared with nonobese women (odds ratio 1.56; 95% confidence interval 1.32–1.92). Within the cohort, 63.8% of the losses were aneuploid, of which 41% were trisomies, 8% were monosomies, and 7% were polyploidies. Of the euploid losses, 50.1% were 46,XX and 49.9% were 46,XY, which suggests that the rate of maternal cell contamination was low.

Conclusion(s)

Obese women have an increased frequency of euploid miscarriage when compared with nonobese women.

β-actin contributes to open chromatin for activation of the adipogenic pioneer factor CEBPA during transcriptional reprograming

Adipogenesis is regulated by a cascade of signals that drive transcriptional reprogramming in adipocytes. Here, we report that nuclear actin regulates the chromatin states that establish tissue- specific expression during adipogenesis. To study the role of β-actin in adipocyte differentiation, we conducted RNA sequencing on wild-type and β-actin knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) after reprograming to adipocytes. We found that β-actin depletion affects induction of several adipogenic genes during transcriptional reprograming. This impaired regulation of adipogenic genes is linked to reduced expression of the pioneer factor Cebpa and is rescued by reintroducing NLS-tagged β-actin. ATAC-Seq in knockout MEFs revealed that actin-dependent reduction of Cebpa expression correlates with decreased chromatin accessibility and loss of chromatin association of the ATPase Brg1. This, in turn, impairs CEBPB's association with its Cebpa promoter-proximal binding site during adipogenesis. We propose a role for the nuclear β-actin pool in maintaining open chromatin for transcriptional reprogramming during adipogenic differentiation.

Reference Gene Optimization for Circadian Gene Expression Analysis in Human Adipose Tissue

A hallmark of biology is the cyclical nature of organismal physiology driven by networks of biological, including circadian, rhythms. Unsurprisingly, disruptions of the circadian rhythms through sleep curtailment or shift work have been connected through numerous studies to positive associations with obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) measures oscillation in messenger RNA expression, an essential foundation for the study of the physiological circadian regulatory network. Primarily, measured oscillations have involved the use of reference gene normalization. However, the validation and identification of suitable reference genes is a significant challenge across different biological systems. This study focuses on adipose tissue of premenopausal, otherwise healthy, morbidly obese women voluntarily enrolled after being scheduled for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Acquisition of tissue was accomplished by aspiratory needle biopsies of subcutaneous adipose tissue 1 to 2 weeks prior to surgery and 12 to 13 weeks following surgery and an in-surgery scalpel-assisted excision of mesenteric adipose tissue. Each biopsy was sterile cultured ex vivo and serially collected every 4 h over approximately 36 h. The candidate reference genes that were tested were 18S rRNA, GAPDH, HPRT1, RPII, RPL13α, and YWHAZ. Three analytic tools were used to test suitability, and the candidate reference genes were used to measure oscillation in expression of a known circadian clock element (Dbp). No gene was deemed suitable as an individual reference gene control, which indicated that the optimal reference gene set was the geometrically averaged 3-gene panel composed of YWHAZ, RPL13α, and GAPDH. These methods can be employed to identify optimal reference genes in other systems.

SOD3 Is Secreted by Adipocytes and Mitigates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance

Aims: To study the expression and regulatory role of SOD3 in adipocytes and adipose tissue. Results: SOD3 expression was determined in various tissues of adult C57BL/6J mice, human adipose tissue and epididymal adipose tissue, subcutaneous adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. SOD3 expression and release were evaluated in adipocytes differentiated from primary human preadipocytes and murine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). The regulatory role for SOD3 was determined by SOD3 lentivirus knockdown in human adipocytes and global sod3 knockout (KO) mice. SOD3 was expressed at high levels in white adipose tissue, and adipocytes were the main cells expressing SOD3 in adipose tissue. SOD3 expression was significantly elevated in adipose tissue of HFD-fed mice. Moreover, SOD3 expression and release were markedly increased in differentiated human adipocytes and adipocytes differentiated from mouse BM-MSCs compared with undifferentiated cells. In addition, SOD3 silencing in human adipocytes increased expression of genes involved in lipid metabolic pathways such as PPARγ and SREBP1c and promoted the accumulation of triglycerides. Finally, global sod3 KO mice were more obese and insulin resistant with enlarged adipose tissue and increased triglyceride accumulation. Innovation: Our data showed that SOD3 is secreted from adipocytes and regulates lipid metabolism in adipose tissue. This important discovery may open up new avenues of research for the cytoprotective role of SOD3 in obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. Conclusion: SOD3 is a protective factor secreted by adipocytes in response to HFD-induced obesity and regulates adipose tissue lipid metabolism.

Adipocyte-progenitor cell communication that influences adipogenesis

Adipose tissue is located in discrete depots that are differentially associated with elevated risk of metabolic complications, with fat accretion in visceral depots being most detrimental to metabolic health. Currently, the regulation of specific adipose depot expansion, by adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia and consequently fat distribution, is not well understood. However, a growing body of evidence from in vitro investigations indicates that mature adipocytes secrete factors that modulate the proliferation and differentiation of progenitor, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). It is therefore plausible that endocrine communication between adipocytes and ADSCs located in different depots influences fat distribution, and may therefore contribute to the adverse health outcomes associated with visceral adiposity. This review will explore the available evidence of paracrine and endocrine crosstalk between mature adipocytes and ADSCs that affects adipogenesis, as a better understanding of the regulatory roles of the extracellular signalling mechanisms within- and between adipose depots may profoundly change the way we view adipose tissue growth in obesity and related comorbidities.

Efficacy of verum and sham acupoint catgut embedding for treatment of obesity: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Obesity has become a major public health hazard with epidemic proportions, affecting adults, adolescents, and children of both genders. Previous studies have suggested that acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) might be a potential therapeutic approach for obesity. The purpose of this study is to conduct a rigorous and normative trial to determine the efficacy of ACE for obesity.

Methods/design

A total of 99 eligible patients diagnosed with obesity will be recruited in this study. They will be randomly allocated to either the verum ACE group, sham ACE group, or waiting list (WL) group, with 33 patients in each group. Each patient in the two ACE-based groups will receive eight sessions of treatment, lasting over 8 weeks. The primary outcome is the reduction of body mass index (BMI) after treatment. Secondary outcomes will include waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist:hip ratio, body fat percentage, blood lipid level, subcutaneous fat area, visceral fat area, and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL). All the outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, at the end of the 8 weeks of treatments, and at 3 months of follow-up. The evaluators and data analyzers will be blinded to group allocation.

Discussion

The findings of this randomized, sham-, and WL-controlled trial will help to investigate the influence of ACE on clinical variables as well as visceral fat area of obesity, which will provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy of ACE for obesity.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800020248. Registered on December 21, 2018.