Atherogenic index as a predictor of atherosclerosis in subjects with familial Mediterranean fever

Assessment of Paraoxonase 1 and Arylesterase Activities and Lipid Profile in Bodybuilders: A Comparative Study of Physical Activity and Anthropometry on Atherosclerosis

Background and Objectives: Atherosclerosis, driven by dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress, is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates the effects of vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise (VIBBE) on atherosclerosis biomarkers-including paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and arylesterase (ARE) activities-and lipid profiles in male bodybuilders who do not use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Comparisons were made with individuals engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE), as well as overweight/obese sedentary (OOS) and normal-weight sedentary (NWS) individuals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 122 healthy male participants aged 18-45 years, divided into four groups: VIBBE (n = 31), OOS (n = 30), MIAE (n = 32), and NWS (n = 29). Anthropometric assessments were performed, and fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, including lipid profiles and PON1 and ARE activities. Statistical analyses compared the groups and evaluated correlations between adiposity measures and atherosclerosis biomarkers. Results: The VIBBE group exhibited significantly lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and logarithm of the TG to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio [log(TG/HDL-C)] compared to the OOS group (p < 0.05 for all), indicating improved lipid profiles. However, these improvements were not significant when compared to the NWS group (p > 0.05), suggesting that VIBBE may not provide additional lipid profile benefits beyond those associated with normal weight status. PON1 and ARE activities were significantly lower in the VIBBE group compared to the MIAE group (p < 0.05 for both), suggesting that VIBBE may not effectively enhance antioxidant defences. Correlation analyses revealed significant inverse relationships between PON1 and ARE activities and adiposity measures, including body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body fat percentage (BFP), fat mass index (FMI), and obesity degree (OD) (p < 0.05 for all). Positive correlations were observed between oxLDL and log(TG/HDL-C) and adiposity measures (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: Vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise improves certain lipid parameters compared to sedentary obese individuals but does not significantly enhance antioxidant enzyme activities or further improve lipid profiles beyond those observed in normal-weight sedentary men. Conversely, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly enhances PON1 and ARE activities and improves lipid profiles, offering superior cardiovascular benefits. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating moderate-intensity aerobic exercise into physical activity guidelines to optimize cardiovascular health by balancing improvements in lipid metabolism with enhanced antioxidant defences.

Lipids in inflammasome activation and autoinflammatory disorders

Autoinflammatory diseases (AIDs) are a group of rare monogenetic disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and systemic inflammation. A major pathologic hallmark of AIDs is excessive inflammasome assembly and activation, often the result of gain-of-function mutations in genes encoding core inflammasome components, including pyrin and cryopyrin. Recent advances in lipidomics have revealed that dysregulated metabolism of lipids such as cholesterol and fatty acids, especially in innate immune cells, exerts complex effects on inflammasome activation and the pathogenesis of AIDs. In this review, we summarize and discuss the impact of lipids and their metabolism on inflammasome activation and the disease pathogenesis of the most common AIDs, including familial Mediterranean fever, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes, and mevalonate kinase deficiency. We postulate that lipids hold diagnostic value in AIDs and that dietary and pharmacologic intervention studies could represent a promising approach to attenuate inflammasome activation and AID progression.

Cardiovascular manifestations of monogenic periodic fever syndromes

Periodic fever syndromes (PFS) are a group of autoinflammatory diseases characterized by repeated febrile episodes and systemic inflammation. The most common monogenic periodic fever syndromes are familial Mediterranean fever, mevalonate kinase deficiency/hyper immunoglobulin D syndrome, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome. Although fever is the predominant feature of PFS, other systems, including the cardiovascular system, may be involved in the disease process. This review focuses on cardiovascular risks and issues in monogenic PFS. Cardiovascular involvement may occur as a disease manifestation, association, or result of complications or a drug's adverse effects in monogenic PFS. Pericarditis seems to be a feature of PFS. Patients with recurrent pericarditis or pericarditis resistant to conventional treatment should be evaluated for PFS. Amyloidosis is the most severe complication of PFS, increasing the risk of cardiac morbidity. Furthermore, ongoing inflammation may result in early atherosclerosis. Therefore, assessing cardiovascular risks in PFS patients should be considered a part of routine care. Key points • Pericarditis is the most common cardiac involvement of monogenic periodic fever syndromes (PFS), while some forms may present with myocarditis. • Amyloidosis, the most significant complication of PFS, may lead to deterioration in cardiac functions. • Ongoing inflammation in PFS may result in endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. • Effective control of inflammation and reducing concomitant risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension could improve cardiovascular outcomes in PFS patients.

Osteopontin as an early predictor of atherosclerosis in attack-free Familial Mediterranean fever patients

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease that is associated with endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Osteopontin which is a multifunctional protein involved in the modulation of inflammatory processes may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis in FMF patients. Therefore, this cross-sectional study investigated the relationship of osteopontin with carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and atherogenic indices in patients with FMF. Serum osteopontin levels, CIMT, Castelli risk index I and II, plasma atherogenic index (PAI), non - high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and atherogenic coefficient (AC) in 64 attack-free FMF patients were compared with levels in 23 healthy control subjects. The serum osteopontin level, CIMT, Castelli risk index I, AC and PAI were significantly higher, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly lower in FMF patients (P < .001, P < .001, P = .045, P = .016, P = .045, and P = .024; respectively). There were significant positive correlations between osteopontin and CIMT, PAI, AC, and Castelli risk index I (R = 0.580, R = 0.259, R = 0.233, R = 0.277; respectively) and there was significant negative correlation between osteopontin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r= -0.309). Patients who had homozygote mutations had significantly higher osteopontin, PAI, Castelli risk index I and II level. The current study is the first to demonstrate significantly increased serum osteopontin levels in attack-free FMF patients compared with healthy controls. It was also associated with CIMT and many atherogenic indices. This finding provides a new experimental basis to understand the pathogenesis of inflammation-induced atherosclerosis in FMF patients. Furthermore, patients who had homozygote mutations had worse atherogenic indices than those with heterozygote mutations.

Potential therapeutic benefits of unconventional oils: assessment of the potential in vitro biological properties of some Rubiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, and Brassicaceae seed oils

Introduction

Seed oils are versatile in the food sector and for pharmaceutical purposes. In recent years, their biological properties aroused the interest of the scientific world.

Materials and methods

We studied the composition of fatty acids (FAs) and some in vitro potential therapeutic benefits of five cold-pressed commercial oils obtained from broccoli, coffee, green coffee, pumpkin, and watermelon seeds. In particular, we assayed the antioxidant activity (using diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays). In addition, through the fatty acid composition, we calculated the atherogenicity index (AI) and thrombogenicity index (TI) to evaluate the potential impact of such oils on cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, we assessed the in vitro anti-inflammatory capacity of the oils (evaluated through their effectiveness in preventing protein degradation, using bovine serum albumin as protein standard) and the ability of the oils to inhibit in vitro activity of three among the essential enzymes, cholinesterases and tyrosinase, involved in the Alzheimer's and Parkinson's neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we evaluated the capacity of the oils to inhibit the biofilm of some pathogenic bacteria.

Results

The unsaturated fatty acids greatly predominated in broccoli seed oil (84.3%), with erucic acid as the main constituent (33.1%). Other unsaturated fatty acids were linolenic (20.6%) and linoleic (16.1%) acids. The saturated fatty acids fraction comprised the palmitic (6.8%) and stearic acids (0.2%). Broccoli seed oil showed the best AI (0.080) and TI (0.16) indexes. The oils expressed a good antioxidant ability. Except for the watermelon seed oil, the oils exhibited a generally good in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, with IC₅₀ values not exceeding 8.73 micrograms. Broccoli seed oil and green coffee seed oil showed the best acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity; coffee seed oil and broccoli seed oil were the most effective in inhibiting butyrylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 15.7 μg and 20.7 μg, respectively). Pumpkin and green coffee seed oil showed the best inhibitory activity against tyrosinase (IC₅₀ = 2 μg and 2.77 μg, respectively). In several cases, the seed oils inhibited the biofilm formation and the mature biofilm of some gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, with Staphylococcus aureus resulting in the most sensitive strain. Such activity seemed related only in some cases to the capacity of the oils to act on the sessile bacterial cells' metabolism, as indicated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric method.

Effects of dietary inclusion of Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels on streptozotocin/HFD type-2 induced diabetes mellitus complications and related biochemical parameters

The effects of dietary inclusion of Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread on low-dose streptozotocin and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) complications was evaluated in the present study. Male experimental rats-induced T2D were administered with acarbose (standard) and fed with Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread for a period of 14 days while monitoring their blood glucose levels. More so, the activities of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE), serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase activities, as well as nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), albumin, total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, and uric acid serum concentrations were assayed for. Diabetic untreated rats showed disorders in ACE, AST, ALT, and ALP activities, and NO, ROS, glucose, albumin, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid levels, as well as lipid profiles. Interestingly, these disorders were significantly ameliorated in composite bread diet-fed rats in comparison to the diabetic untreated rats. Meanwhile, the presence of polyphenols in the Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread diet could have aided the amelioration of these metabolic disorders after the 14th day of administration. Finally, it was proposed that the ability of Bambara groundnut-wheat and sweet orange peel composite bread to treat T2D and its complications makes it a more successful therapy than medications that just target one of the diseased states. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes mellitus is a global and chronic disease that presently affects 536.6 million people alongside 1.5 million deaths directly attributed to it yearly. Several drug and medicinal agents have been employed for the management of diabetes but those drugs are mostly limited to the management of diabetes while the associated complications are most untreated, while drugs that can manage diabetes and its related complications mostly come at high prices. Therefore, there is an urgent need to evaluate legumes, such as Bambara groundnut, with proven therapeutic potential in the management of diabetes and its complications. However, the Bambara groundnut takes a long period to prepare for a meal, therefore including it in a ready-to-eat product will not only improve its acceptability but also add to economic improvement. Furthermore, adding a waste product, sweet orange peels, will both add flavor and source of additional antioxidant attributes.

Assessment of the Nutritional Quality of Plant Lipids Using Atherogenicity and Thrombogenicity Indices

Dietary lipids derived from plants have different compositions of individual fatty acids (FA), providing different physical and chemical properties with positive or adverse health effects on humans. To evaluate the nutritional value and assess the FA composition of various plants, the atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity (TI) indices were calculated and reviewed for nine different categories of fats and oils. This included common oils, unconventional oils, nut oils originating from temperate regions, Amazonian and tropical fats and oils, chia seed oil, traditional nuts originating from temperate regions, unconventional nuts, seeds, and fruits, and their products. The main factors influencing fatty acid composition in plants are growth location, genotype, and environmental variation, particularly temperature after flowering, humidity, and frequency of rainfall (exceeding cultivar variation). The lowest AI was calculated for rapeseed oil (0.05), whereas the highest value was obtained for tucuman seeds (16.29). Chia seed oil had the lowest TI (0.04), and murumuru butter had the highest (6.69). The differences in FA composition and subsequent changes in the lipid health indices of the investigated fats and oils indicate their importance in the human diet.

Dyslipidemia and the Prevalence of Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Chinese Adults Without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background

In clinical practice, it is frequently observed that patients with hypertension often coexist with dyslipidemia. However, studies on atherosclerotic indices and the prevalence of hypertension are still limited. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between atherosclerotic indices and the prevalence of hypertension in Chinese adults without type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

In this paper, a cross-sectional study was conducted based on 117,056 adults in 11 Chinese cities (Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan, Suzhou, Shenzhen, Changzhou, Nantong, Guangzhou, Hefei, Nanjing, and Chengdu) from 2010 to 2016. Besides, the raw data was obtained from the public database (www.Datadryad.org), while eight atherosclerosis indices namely the atherogenic coefficient (AC), Castelli's risk index I (CRI-I) and II (CRI-II), the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), the cholesterol index, the lipoprotein combined index (LCI), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) and triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) were analyzed in this study. Apart from that, two groups of continuous variables were measured using the Mann-Whitney test, and categorical variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Differences between multiple groups of continuous variables were investigated using Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Dunn's test. Furthermore, Spearman correlation analysis and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between atherosclerotic indices and blood pressure levels, and the prevalence of hypertension, respectively. The results of multivariate logistic regression analyses were expressed as the odds ratio (OR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was depicted to further analyze the predictive value of the atherosclerotic indices on the prevalence of hypertension.

Results

The atherosclerosis indices were higher in the hypertensive population compared to those in the normotensive population. Meanwhile, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were linearly and positively correlated with atherosclerotic indices. In addition, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the cholesterol index and non-HDL-C were observed to be positively associated with the prevalence of hypertension (p for trend &lt; 0.05). Moreover, the prevalence of hypertension increased by 3.7% (OR: 1.037; 95% CI: 1.009-1.065; p = 0.009) and 6.1% (OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.033–1.091; p &lt; 0.001), respectively, as per 1-standard deviation (SD) increase in the cholesterol index and non-HDL-C. Beyond that, ROC analysis demonstrated that the cholesterol index and non-HDL-C have a good predictive value for the prevalence of hypertension in women, with under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.659 and 0.684 and cut-off values of 47.94 and 134.34 mg/dl, accordingly.

Conclusions

In Chinese adults without type 2 diabetes mellitus, atherosclerotic indices were significantly higher in hypertensive populations compared with those in normotensive populations, regardless of hypertension levels. Meanwhile, SBP and DBP were linearly and positively related to atherosclerotic indices. Besides, the cholesterol index and non-HDL-C were independent risk factors for the prevalence of hypertension, and they could be adopted for effectively predicting the prevalence of hypertension in women.

Association of familial Mediterranean fever and epicardial adipose tissue: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and Aim

Some studies reported a positive link between familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and epicardial adipose tissue. Our meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether there is a significant association between FMF and increased epicardial adipose tissue thickness.

Methods

We searched the following databases: PUBMED, WOS, OVID, SCOPUS, and EMBASE. Inclusion criteria were any original articles that reported epicardial adipose tissue in FMF patients with no age restriction, excluding reviews, case reports, editorials, animal studies, and non-English studies. Thirty eligible studies were screened full text but only five studies were suitable. We used RevMan software (5.4) for the meta-analysis.

Results

The total number of patients included in the meta-analysis in the FMF patients group is 256 (mean age = 24.3), and the total number in the control group is 188 (mean age = 24.98). The pooled analysis between FMF patients and controls was [mean difference = 0.82 (95% CI = 0.25-1.39), p-value = 0.005]. We observed heterogeneity that was not solved by random effects (p > 0.00001). We performed leave one out test by removing the Kozan et al. study, and the heterogeneity was solved (p = 0.07), and the results were (MD = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.52-1.43, p-value < 0.0001).

Conclusion

FMF patients are at increased risk of developing epicardial adipose tissue compared to controls. More multicenter studies with higher sample sizes are needed to support our results.

Assessment of vascular damage in children and young adults with Familial Mediterranean Fever

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is the most frequent autoinflammatory disease. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of subclinical vascular damage in FMF children, and young adults, using both imaging and laboratory tests. Forty-five FMF patients (mean age 14.3 ± 9.5 years, 33 children) and 44 healthy controls(mean age 13.3 ± 8.6 years, 36 children) were included in the study. The patients were diagnosed according to Tel-Hashomer criteria, were positive for MEFV gene mutation, were treated with colchicine and were evaluated during an attack free-period. The arterial stiffness parameters studied were carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), Augmentation Index (Aix), subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR) and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). Laboratory parameters, inflammation markers and lipid profile were also evaluated for all participants. There were no significant differences between patients and healthy individuals, as well as in our children population regarding PWV, SEVR, Aix and cIMT. However, significantly higher ESR, CRP and fibrinogen levels were detected in the total population of FMF patients and higher amyloid levels in FMF children, compared to controls. Atherogenic Index of Plasma was significantly higher both in the total patient population and in the subgroup of children, compared to controls. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation between Aix and CRP and a negative correlation between SEVR and ESR became apparent in the pediatric subgroup. Our study demonstrated no significant differences in vascular measurements between FMF patients and controls. The above could be attributed to the regular colchicine treatment, which seems to have a cardioprotective role against vascular damage.

Helianthus Annuus L. Alleviates High-Fat Diet Induced Atherosclerosis by Regulating Intestinal Microbiota, Inhibiting Inflammation and Restraining Oxidative Stress

Helianthus Annuus L. (HAL) is composed of flavonoids and polysaccharides. Flavonoids have demonstrated beneficial effects on atherosclerosis (AS). The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-atherosclerosis effect and the related mechanism of HAL. In this study, the AS model induced by high-fat diet (HFD) mice that lacked apolipoprotein E (Apoe[Formula: see text] received feed containing 5% HAL for 24 weeks. After administration, the analysis of plaque on aorta was conducted, and the possible mechanisms were further explored. With HAL treatment, the size of atherosclerotic lesions in HFD-induced AS model mice was reduced. HAL ameliorated dyslipidemia and decreased the combined ratio. HAL up-regulated concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and down-regulated concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the aorta. In addition, 16S rRNA analysis showed that HAL also reduced diversity of the intestinal microbiota, decreased the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio, and increased the relative abundance of probiotics such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus. In the end, HAL decreased the permeability of intestine by increasing the levels of occludin and tight junction protein 1 (ZO-1) in the colon, consequently decreasing concentration of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1[Formula: see text] and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-[Formula: see text] in serum and mRNA expressions in the aorta. Data showed that HAL alleviates AS by restraining oxidative stress, regulating intestinal microbiota, decreasing intestinal permeability and inhibiting inflammation. Our findings provided novel insights into the role and mechanism of anti-atherogenic potential of HAL.

Increased atherogenic index in the general hearing loss population

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of hearing loss with atherogenic index (AI) in the general population.

Methods

A multistage study using cluster random sampling method was conducted in the Zhejiang province from 2016 to 2018. Pure-tone air-conduction hearing thresholds were measured at frequencies of 0.125-8 kHz for each subject. After obtaining their consent, all participants were asked to provide their own plasma lipid data.

Results

A total of 3,414 eligible participants were included, 1,765 (51.7%) were men and 1,649 (48.3%) were women and 1,113 (32.6%) had hearing loss. Ridge regression showed increased AI in subjects with hearing loss. The subgroup with the highest quartile of AI, presenting the highest risk of hearing loss as compared to the lowest quartile, comprised young and middle-aged women. Further analysis revealed that the AI in people with different categories of hearing loss was higher than that in the normal population, except for those with (extremely) severe hearing loss. Moreover, the young and middle-aged women exhibited the most significant correlations between AI and hearing loss.

Conclusion

AI was positively associated with hearing loss in the general population, especially the young and middle-aged women.

Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Familial Mediterranean Fever

INTRODUCTION

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), insulin resistance (IR) and chronic inflammation. Although familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) patients have no symptoms in the periods between attacks, their subclinical inflammation continues. The aim of the present study was to determine the NAFLD frequency in FMF patients and to evaluate their MetS, IR and lipid profiles.

METHODS

The study included 54 FMF patients and 54 control subjects. The clinical and demographic characteristics of the subjects were recorded, and the patients' Pras disease severity score was calculated. IR was determined using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index. MetS was diagnosed using the revised National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria (NCEP ATP III). Hepatic ultrasonography was used to diagnose NAFLD.

RESULTS

NAFLD was observed in 15 FMF patients (27.8%) and 14 controls (25.9%). The difference between the groups was not significant (p=0.828). Similarly, no significant difference was found between the two groups for MetS frequency and HOMA index levels. Fasting plasma glucose was significantly higher in FMF patients, whereas differences between the two groups were not significant for lipid levels and other parameters. When FMF patients with and without NAFLD were compared, no significant difference was found in Pras disease severity score, duration of the disease and daily colchicine dose.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that NAFLD frequency was not increased in FMF patients, and that patients' MetS frequency, IR and lipid profiles were not different from control subjects.

Anti-Atherosclerosis Effect of Angong Niuhuang Pill via Regulating Th17/Treg Immune Balance and Inhibiting Chronic Inflammatory on ApoE-/- Mice Model of Early and Mid-Term Atherosclerosis

Angong Niuhuang Pill (ANP) is a well-known patented Chinese medicine which is used for hundreds of years for treating the central nervous system diseases. Atherosclerosis is a poly-aetiological chronic inflammatory vascular disease. Preventing inflammation is fundamental for treating atherosclerosis in early stages. In this study, we investigated the protective effects and possible mechanisms of ANP action on a high-fat diet induced early and mid-term atherosclerosis ApoE^-/- mice. The effects of ANP were compared with accepted drug simvastatin. Twelve male C57BL/6J mice were used as the control group, and 60 male ApoE^-/- mice were randomly divided into five groups: Model group, Simvastatin group, Low-, Medium-, and High-dose ANP group these groups received, respectively, saline, simvastatin (3.0mg/kg), low-dose ANP (0.25 g/kg), medium-dose ANP (0.50 g/kg), and high-dose ANP (1.0 g/kg), once every other day for 10 weeks. After administration, serum biochemical indices were detected by the automatic biochemical analyzer, the concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10 in the serum were assayed by ELISA, expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP-2, MMP-9, CCL2, and its receptor CCR2 in the full-length aorta, and expression levels of transcription factors Foxp3, RORγt in the spleen were assayed via western blotting and RT-qPCR. Flow cytometry was used to analyze Th17 cells and Treg cells. Pathological and histological analysis was completed on aortic root. ANP decreased LDL/HDL ratio, concentrations of IL-6 while increased IL-10 in serum. Moreover, ANP down-regulated the expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP-2, MMP-9, CCL2, and CCR2 receptor in the full-length aorta. In addition, ANP decreased Th17 cells and expression levels of transcription factor RORγt, increased Treg cells and expression levels of transcription factor Foxp3. ANP decreased content of collagen fibers and infiltration of inflammatory cells in the aortic root. In conclusion, we demonstrated that ANP has anti-atherosclerosis effects on a high-fat diet induced ApoE^-/- mice early and mid-term AS model via regulating Th17/Treg balance, inhibiting chronic inflammation, reducing plaque collagen fibers, and reducing inflammatory cells infiltration, to exert its multi-channel multi-target anti-early and mid-term AS effects.

Protective effect of aqueous extract of Lophira lanceolata leaf against cisplatin-induced hepatorenal injuries and dyslipidemia in Wistar rats

Background

Hepatorenal injuries and dyslipidemia are common global health challenges but medicinal plant extracts may have potential to prevent them. Thus, this study evaluated the protective effect of aqueous extract of Lophira lanceolata leaf (LLE) against cisplatin-induced hepatorenal injuries and dyslipidemia in albino Wistar rats.

Methods

Thirty rats were randomly divided into 6 groups of 5 rats each. Group I rats received distilled water and served as control, group II rats were given 5 mg/kg cisplatin (CIS) intraperitoneally, groups III and IV rats were treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg LLE respectively for 26 days by oral gavages while groups V and VI rats were treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg LLE respectively, followed by CIS on the 21st day as in group II. About 24 h after treatment, blood was collected from the rats; then serum was separated and used for estimations of biochemical parameters. The kidney and liver of rats were removed, rinsed in normal saline, stored in 10% formalin and used for histological analyses.

Results

The biomarkers of hepatic (Aminotransferases, Alkaline phosphatase and Bilirubin) and renal (urea and creatinine) injuries, and dyslipidemia (Total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol) significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the rats exclusively exposed to cisplatin when compared with normal control. However, treatment of cisplatin-exposed rats with 200 and 400 mg/kg LLE significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the levels of these biomarkers of hepatorenal injuries and dyslipidemia when compared with cisplatin control. Photomicrographs showed pathological signs in the liver and kidney of rats exclusively exposed to cisplatin, but there was moderate protection of these tissues in the rats treated with LLE and cisplatin.

Conclusion

The current findings have shown that Lophira lanceolata leaf extract may provide moderate protection against cisplatin-induced hepatorenal injuries and dyslipidemia in albino Wistar rats.

Familial Mediterranean fever and atherosclerosis in childhood and adolescence

Familial Mediterranean fever is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by periodic and self-limited episodes of fever and aseptic polyserositis. Although colchicine treatment has altered the course of the disease, it is believed that subclinical inflammation is still present, leading to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis in the course of time. In this review, following the published recommendations, we queried online databases such as MEDLINE Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of science for peer-reviewed studies and reviews written in English language, using the following keywords: familial Mediterranean fever, children, endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease. The objective of this review is to highlight the correlation between familial Mediterranean fever and atherosclerosis, and moreover to describe new serum inflammatory markers and non-invasive methods of endothelial dysfunction, to detect the atherosclerosis process early starting from childhood.

Atherosclerosis risk assessment in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a case-control study

Purpose

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is considered as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and a leading cause of mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study assessed the association of COPD with atherosclerotic risk factors and compared the predictor role of various cardiovascular (CV) risk score calculators in Indian subjects with COPD.

Patients and methods

Forty subjects with stable COPD and forty age, gender and body mass index (BMI)-matched healthy controls were included in the case-control study conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Atherogenic indices were calculated by using the values of lipid parameters. CV risk calculators were utilized to assess the 10-year CV risk for the COPD group.

Results

The study subjects had a mean age of 60.83±12.40 years in COPD group and 57.73±9.49 years in control group (p=0.213). Gender distribution was similar in both the groups. The mean High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were 3.70±2.37 mg/L in COPD group and 2.39±2.23 mg/L in control group. The hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in COPD than in control subjects (p=0.012). Using bivariate correlations, we found significant positive correlations between hs-CRP and atherogenesis indices-atherogenic index of plasma, cardiogenic risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient in COPD patients [(r=0.4265, p<0.006); (r=0.7034, p<0.001) and (r=0.7034, p<0.001), respectively]. Framingham risk score-cardiovascular disease (FRS-CVD) has identified maximum number of COPD subjects (45%) to be in high CVD risk category.

Conclusion

The study concluded that hs-CRP levels in COPD subjects were significantly higher than in control subjects. FRS-CVD was most useful for identifying high CV risk subjects in COPD subjects.

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induces cardiac disorders in BALB/c mice

Because of the extensive use of phthalates for domestic, medical, and industrial applications, the evaluation of their toxic effects is of major concern to public health. The aim of the present study was to assess the propensity of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), one of the most used phthalates, to cause oxidative cardiac damage in mice. DEHP was administered intraperitoneally at doses of 5, 50, and 200 mg/kg body weight for 30 consecutive days in BALB/c mice. We assessed the effect of DEHP on cardiac injury using biochemical profile (such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine phosphokinase (CPK), total cholesterol (T-CHOL), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)), parameters related to myocardiac oxidative stress, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) level, protein carbonyl (PC) concentration, and DNA fragmentation. In addition, we evaluated antioxidant status; enzymatic (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities) and non-enzymatic (protein-bound sulfhydryl concentration (PSH)) antioxidants. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and histopathological changes were also assessed in heart mice treated with DEHP. Our results showed that DEHP induced an elevation of serum marker enzymes and perturbated the lipid profile. In addition, this phthalate increased lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl levels, and DNA fragmentation in the heart in a dose-dependent manner. Antioxidant status was also perturbated by the increase of the CAT and SOD activities and the decrease of the protein-bound sulfhydryl concentration. AChE activity was also inhibited in the heart following the treatment with DEHP. These biochemical alterations were also confirmed by histopathological changes. Increased free radical production at various doses of DEHP would result in impairment of the redox status leading to an enhanced dose-dependent cardiotoxicity.

Anti-atherosclerosis of oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea on rat model via hypolipemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities together with regulation of endothelial function

BACKGROUND

Rhodiola rosea has been used as a traditional medicine for a long history. Previous studies on oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea (OPCRR) have showed that it exhibited significant free radical-scavenging activities, antioxidant activities in aging mice and lipid lowering effects.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

We hypothesized that OPCRR can improve the atherosclerosis pathological in rats. In the present study, we investigated the effects of OPCRR on the serum lipid profiles, oxidant stress status, inflammatory cytokines and atherosclerotic mediators, and endothelial dysfunction as well as changes in abdominal aorta of atherosclerosis rats.

METHODS

The major components of OPCRR were analyzed by using infrared spectrum and HPLC-ESI-MS. The atherosclerosis rat model was induced by high fat and vitamin D3 feeding for 9 weeks and two OPCRR doses (60 and 120 mg/kg b.w.) were orally administered daily for 9 weeks. The rats were then sacrificed and the blood was collected via abdominal aorta and serum was separated by centrifugated for biochemical analysis. Part of the aorta tissues were excised immediately for histopathological examination and western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared to model group, OPCRR treatments significantly decreased the serum lipid profiles including total cholesterol, total triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and ox-LDL and increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); significant increased serum antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GSH-Px) and decrease of MDA content as a product of lipid peroxidation; lowered serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 and enhanced IL-10 level; increased the serum release of nitric oxide and expression of iNOS in aortic, whereas decreased the expression of eNOS.

CONCLUSION

OPCRR can improve the progress of atherosclerosis by regulation of lipid metabolism, restoring of the antioxidant capacities, and attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemcytokines release, and improving the endothelial dysfunction indicated by nitric oxide system.

Chitosan Nanoparticles of Gamma-Oryzanol: Formulation, Optimization, and In vivo Evaluation of Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity

The elevated blood levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins result in hyperlipidemia. The available expensive prophylactic treatments are kindred with severe side effects. Therefore, we fabricated the polymeric nanoparticles of gamma-oryzanol to achieving the improved efficacy of drug. The nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation method and optimized using 2³ full factorial design taking drug/polymer ratio (X₁), polymer/cross linking agent ratio (X₂), and stirring speed (X₃) as independent variables. The average particle size, percentage entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release at 2, 12, and 24 h were selected as response parameters. The factorial batches were statistically analyzed and optimized. The optimized nanoparticles were characterized with respect to particle size (141 nm) and zeta potential (+ 6.45 mV). Results obtained with the prepared and characterized formulation showed 83% mucoadhesion towards the intestinal mucosa. The in vitro findings were complemented well by in vivo anti-hyperlipidemic activity of developed formulation carried out in Swiss albino mouse model. The in vivo studies showed improved atherogenic index, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase levels in poloxamer-407-induced hyperlipidemic animals when treated with oryzanol and gamma-oryzanol nanoformulation. Based on our findings, we believe that chitosan-mediated delivery of gamma-oryzanol nanoparticles might prove better in terms of anti-hyperlipidemic therapeutics.

Silymarin ameliorates expression of urotensin II (U-II) and its receptor (UTR) and attenuates toxic oxidative stress in the heart of rats with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Urotensin II ((U-II)) and its receptor (UTR) are involved in the progression of CVD through enhancement in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Since silymarin (SMN) is a natural agent with anti-diabetic effects, this study aimed to investigate the antioxidant potency of SMN on the expression of (U-II)/UTR system and oxidative stress status in the heart of type 2 diabetic rats. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Control and diabetic groups treated with or without SMN (60 and 120 mg/kg/day) for 2 months. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, lipid profile, creatine kinase-MB ((CK-MB)), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and markers of oxidative stress were measured by spectrophotometric methods while (U-II) and UTR gene expression was determined by qPCR method. SMN significantly reduced the FBS level, increased the concentration of insulin and improved HOMA-IR. SMN prevented diabetes-induced weight loss, and attenuated the increased levels of total oxidative status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). Diabetes-induced reduction of total thiol molecules content (TTM) was normalized to the normal level in SMN treated rats. SMN significantly modulated serum lipid profile, reduced the expression of (U-II) and UTR in the heart, and improved histopathological changes in the heart tissues. Therefore, the current study indicated that SMN ameliorated unpleasant diabetic characteristics via down-regulation of (U-II) and UTR gene expression and modulation of oxidative stress in the heart tissue of type 2 diabetic rats.

Vitamin D status, serum lipid concentrations, and vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms in Familial Mediterranean fever

Vitamin D (VitD) is critical for the regulation of inflammatory processes, and VitD deficiency has been linked to several chronic inflammatory disorders. We aimed to investigate the concentrations of serum 25(OH)D3, lipid parameters, and three known VDR polymorphisms (BsmI, FokI, and TaqI) in patients with Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), an autosomal recessive autoinflammatory disease. The study included 123 FMF patients and 105 controls. Seventy patients had no attack (group 1), 30 had 1-2 attacks (group 2), and 23 had 3 or more attacks (group 3) within last three months. Serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. BsmI, FokI, and TaqI polymorphisms were analyzed by a competitive allele specific polymerase chain reaction assay (KASPar). Serum lipid parameters were measured with enzymatic colorimetric methods. 25(OH)D3 concentrations were lower in FMF patients compared to controls (p < 0.001). No difference was observed in 25(OH)D3 concentration between groups 1, 2, and 3. The distributions of FokI and TaqI genotypes were not significantly different between FMF patients and controls. There was a significant difference in the distribution of AA BsmI genotype between male FMF patients and male controls. Increased concentrations of triglycerides (p = 0.012) and decreased concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C] (p = 0.006) were found in FMF patients compared to controls. Although lower 25(OH)D3 concentrations were observed in FMF patients versus controls, no association was determined between FMF attack frequency and 25(OH)D3 concentrations. We showed that the AA genotype of BsmI polymorphism is associated with FMF in males but not in females. The effects of decreased HDL-C and increased triglyceride concentrations on cardiovascular events in FMF patients should be further investigated.

Effects of prolonged exercise versus multiple short exercise sessions on risk for metabolic syndrome and the atherogenic index in middle-aged obese women: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Many people, although they may recognise the positive effects of exercise, do not exercise regularly owing to lack of time. This study aimed to investigate the effects of prolonged single-session exercise and multiple short sessions of exercise on the risk of metabolic syndrome and the atherogenic index in middle-aged obese women.

METHODS

Thirty-six participants were divided into the single-session group, multiple-session group, and control group. The single-session group engaged in one session of treadmill exercise for 30 min a day; the multiple-session group had three sessions of 10 min a day. Both groups exercised 3 days/week for 12 weeks. The control group did not perform any exercise.

RESULTS

The single-session group showed decreases in weight (0.97 kg [95% C.I. = 0.09-1.83], p < .05), body mass index (0.43 kg/m2 [95% C.I. = 0.03-0.81], p < .05), and fat mass (1.65 kg, [95% C.I. = 0.78-2.51], p < .01). Systolic blood pressure dropped in the single-session group (6.66 mmHg, [95% C.I. = 1.44-11.88], p < .05), and diastolic blood pressure dropped in the multiple-session group (3.38 mmHg, [95% C.I. = 1.44-5.88], p < .01). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol rose in the single-session group (4.08 mg/dL, [95% C.I. = -8.08-(-)0.07], p < .05) and dropped in the control group (10.75 mg/dL [95% C.I. = 1.95-19.54], p < .01). According to post hoc analysis, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased more in the single-session group than the control group (95% C.I. = 0.61-21.88, p < .05). Glucose levels decreased in both the single-session group (16 mg/dL [95% C.I. = 5.64-26.35], p < .01) and the multiple-session group (12.16 mg/dL, [95% C.I. = 2.18-22.14], p < .05). Waist circumference decreased in the single-session group (2.65 cm [95% C.I. = 1.46-3.83], p < .001) and multiple-session group (2.04 cm, [95% C.I. = 1.51-2.73], p < .001). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels rose in both the multiple-session group (-15.79 mg/dL [95% C.I. = -34.24-(-)3.78], p < .05) and the control group (-22.94 mg/dL [95% C.I. = -44.63-(-)1.24], p < .05). The atherogenic index increased in the control group (-1.06 [95% C.I. = -1.69-(-)0.41], p < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that prolonged exercise is superior to multiple short sessions for improving the risk of metabolic syndrome and the atherogenic index in middle-aged obese women. However, multiple short sessions can be recommended as an alternative to prolonged exercise when the goal is to decrease blood glucose or waist circumference.

MTHFR gene C677T and A1298C variants are associated with FMF risk in a Turkish cohort

BACKGROUND

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a crucial enzyme in homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism. We aimed to evaluate a possible relationship between MTHFR gene C677T (rs 1801133), A1298C (rs 1801131) variants and susceptibility to FMF in a Turkish cohort.

MATERIAL-METHODS

This case-control study included 198 Turkish FMF patients and 100 healthy subjects as controls. MTHFR C677T and A1298C were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods.

RESULTS

The genotype distribution and allele frequency of the MTHFR C677T were statistically different between the patients and the control group (P=.006, P=.001, respectively). The frequency of the TT genotype and T allele of MTHFR C677T was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. The genotype distribution of MTHFR A1298C variant did not show any statistically significant difference between the patients and the controls (P›.05). The patients had statistically different frequencies in allele C of MTHFR A1298C variant compared with the control (P=.032). We also examined the risk associated with inheriting the combined genotypes for the two MTHFR variants. According to these results, individuals who were CC homozygous at C677T locus and AA homozygous at A1298C locus have a lower risk of developing FMF (P=.002). Individuals who were TT homozygous at C677T locus and AC heterozygous at A1298C locus have higher risk of developing FMF (P=.033).

CONCLUSION

Our findings clearly showed there was an association the MTHFR C677T/A1298C variants and susceptibility to FMF in the Turkish sample.

Target acquired: Selective autophagy in cardiometabolic disease

The accumulation of damaged or excess proteins and organelles is a defining feature of metabolic disease in nearly every tissue. Thus, a central challenge in maintaining metabolic homeostasis is the identification, sequestration, and degradation of these cellular components, including protein aggregates, mitochondria, peroxisomes, inflammasomes, and lipid droplets. A primary route through which this challenge is met is selective autophagy, the targeting of specific cellular cargo for autophagic compartmentalization and lysosomal degradation. In addition to its roles in degradation, selective autophagy is emerging as an integral component of inflammatory and metabolic signaling cascades. In this Review, we focus on emerging evidence and key questions about the role of selective autophagy in the cell biology and pathophysiology of metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and steatohepatitis. Essential players in these processes are the selective autophagy receptors, defined broadly as adapter proteins that both recognize cargo and target it to the autophagosome. Additional domains within these receptors may allow integration of information about autophagic flux with critical regulators of cellular metabolism and inflammation. Details regarding the precise receptors involved, such as p62 and NBR1, and their predominant interacting partners are just beginning to be defined. Overall, we anticipate that the continued study of selective autophagy will prove to be informative in understanding the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases and to provide previously unrecognized therapeutic targets.

Anti-atherosclerosis and cardio-protective effects of the Angong Niuhuang Pill on a high fat and vitamin D3 induced rodent model of atherosclerosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Angong Niuhuang Pill (ANP) is a well known Chinese traditional therapeutic for the treatment for diseases affecting the Central Nervous System (CNS). Components of the ANP formulation, including Bovis Calculus Sativus, Pulvis Bubali Comus Concentratus, Moschus, Margarita, Cinnabaris, Realgar, Coptidis Rhizoma, Scutellariae Radix, Gardeniae Fructus, Curcumae Radix, and Bomeolum Syntheticum, have been used for the treatment of stroke, encephalitis and emergency meningitis across Asia, especially in China for hundreds of years.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to investigate the anti-atherosclerosis and cardio-protective effects of ANP administration using a rodent model of atherosclerosis induced by a high fat and vitamin D₃.

METHODS

Specific Pathogen-Free (SPF) 78 male SD rats were randomly divided into a control group and 5 atherosclerotic model groups. The atherosclerotic groups were divided to receive either Simvastatin (SVTT, 0.005g/kg), Low-dose ANP (0.125g/kg), Medium-dose ANP (0.25g/kg), and High-dose ANP (0.5g/kg). Following adaptive feeding for one week, atherosclerosis was induced and the atherosclerosis model was established. Experimental drugs (either simvastatin or ANP) or normal saline were administered intragastrically once daily for 9 weeks starting from the 8th week. A carotid artery ultrasound was performed at the 17th week to determine whether atherosclerosis had been induced. After the atherosclerosis model was successfully established, platelet aggregation rates, serum biochemical indices, apoptosis-related Bcl-2, Bax proteins levels in the heart were assayed. Pathological and histological analysis was completed using artery tissue from different experimental different groups to assess the effects of ANP.

RESULTS

ANP significantly decreased aortic membrane thickness, the maximum platelet aggregation rates, and the ratio of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) to high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). In addition, ANP significantly reduced serum contents of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, malondialdehyde, troponin I, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and lactate dehydrogenase. ANP markedly improved abnormal pathological conditions of the aorta and heart, and helped to prevent myocardial apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated that ANP has robust ant-atherosclerosis and cardio-protective effects on a high-fat and vitamin D₃ - induced rodent model of atherosclerosis due to its antiplatelet aggregation, lipid regulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties.

Is triglyceride/HDL ratio a reliable screening test for assessment of atherosclerotic risk in patients with chronic inflammatory disease?

OBJECTIVE

The term chronic inflammatory disease (CID) refers to a category of inflammatory diseases that includes Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). The incidence of adverse cardiovascular events is greater among patients with CID, though they may not have conventional atherosclerotic risk factors. Endothelial dysfunction is one of the underlying fundamental mechanisms that trigger development of atherosclerotic alterations in arteries, and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) is a noninvasive method to determine endothelial dysfunction. Recent studies have shown a relationship between high triglyceride high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and coronary atherosclerosis. Many studies have demonstrated that patients with CID have lower FMD values compared to healthy population, indicating endothelial dysfunction. However TG/HDL ratio and its relationship to FMD in patients with CID has not been investigated. The present study investigated whether TG/HDL ratio in CID patients differs from that of healthy population, and its relationship to FMD in patients with CID.

METHODS

A total of 58 patients with CID and a group of 58 healthy volunteer individuals were enrolled in the study. FMD measurements were taken with high resolution ultrasound (US), and TG/HDL ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

Patients with CID had significantly higher TG/HDL-C ratio (2.5 [2.2-2.8] vs 2.3 [2.1-2.5]; p=0.03) and lower FMD values (5.2 [4.2-6.3] vs 6.7 [6.3-9.7]; p<0.001), compared to healthy group, and a negative correlation was found between FMD levels and TG/HDL ratio of the study population.

CONCLUSION

Higher TG/HDL ratio and lower FMD values found in CID patients may reflect increased atherosclerotic risk.

Glutathione-S-Transferase Variants are not Associated With Increased Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Turkish Familial Mediterranean Fever Patients

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in patients diagnosed with Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and investigate whether there is a relationship between glutathione-S-transferase (GST) gene polymorphisms and CIMT.

Patients and methods

Sixty FMF patients (17 males, 43 females; mean age: 31.43±11.36 years; range 18 to 45 years) and 60 healthy controls (22 males, 38 females; mean age: 29.8±5.82 years; range 18 to 40 years) were enrolled in this study. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism methods were carried out to assess GST polymorphisms. CIMT was measured by carotid ultrasonography. Biochemical parameters were also evaluated using biochemical methods.

Results

Right and left CIMT of FMF patients were statistically significantly higher than that of control group (CIMT right p=0.001 and CIMT left: p=0.033). There was no significant association in terms of GST polymorphisms between FMF and control groups. No significant association was observed between GST polymorphisms and CIMT. Low density lipoprotein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in the patient group (p<0.05). The difference between groups was not significant in terms of other biochemical parameters (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Although no significant association was observed between GST polymorphisms and CIMT in FMF patients and controls, CIMT was statistically significantly higher in FMF patients compared to controls.