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Rezaei K, Bejoy AM, Rotarescu RD, Klievik BJ, Metherel AH. Sex-dependent differences in tissue and blood n-3 PUFA levels following ALA or ALA + DHA feeding of liver-specific Elovl2-KO and control mice. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2024; 201:102621. [PMID: 38763083 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2024.102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) must be consumed from the diet or synthesized from polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) precursors, such as α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3n-3). Elongase 2 (encoded by Elovl2 gene) catalyzes two elongation reactions in the PUFA biosynthesis pathway and may be important in regulating the observed sex differences in n-3 PUFA levels. Our aim was to determine how targeted knockout of liver Elovl2 affects tissue and blood n-3 PUFA levels in male and female C57BL/6J mice. Twenty-eight-day old male and female liver Elovl2-KO and control mice were placed onto one of two dietary protocols for a total of 8 weeks (4-8 mice per genotype, per diet, per sex): 1) an 8-week 2 % ALA in total fat diet or 2) a 4-week 2 % ALA diet followed by a 4-week 2 % ALA + 2 % DHA diet. Following this 8-week feeding period, 12-week-old mice were sacrificed and serum, red blood cells (RBC), liver, heart and brain were collected and fatty acid levels measured. Significant interaction effects (p < 0.05, sex x genotype) for serum, RBC, liver and heart DHA levels were identified. In serum and liver, DHA levels were significantly different (p < 0.01) between all groups with male controls > female controls > female KO > male KO in serum and female controls > male controls > female KO > male KO in liver. In RBCs and the heart, female controls = male controls > female KO > male KO (p < 0.001). The addition of DHA to diet removed the interaction effects on DHA levels in the serum, liver and heart, yielding a significant sex effect in serum, liver (female > male, p < 0.01) and brain (male > female, p < 0.05) and genotype effect in serum and heart (control > KO, p < 0.05). Ablation of liver Elovl2 results in significantly lower blood and tissue DHA in a sex-dependent manner, suggesting a role for Elovl2 on sex differences in n-3 PUFA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuorosh Rezaei
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley M Bejoy
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruxandra D Rotarescu
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brinley J Klievik
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam H Metherel
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Vamadeva SG, Bhattacharyya N, Sharan K. Maternal Plasma Glycerophospholipids LC-PUFA Levels Have a Sex-Specific Association with the Offspring's Cord Plasma Glycerophospholipids-Fatty Acid Desaturation Indices at Birth. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14850. [PMID: 36429569 PMCID: PMC9691092 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fatty acid desaturases, the enzymes responsible for the production of unsaturated fatty acids (FA) in fetal tissues, are known to be influenced by maternal-placental supply of nutrients and hormones for their function. We hypothesize that there could be a gender-specific regulation of unsaturated FA metabolism at birth, dependent on the maternal fatty acid levels. In this study, 153 mother-newborn pairs of uncomplicated and 'full-term' pregnancies were selected and the FA composition of plasma glycerophospholipids (GP) was quantified by gas chromatography. The FA composition of mother blood plasma (MB) was compared with the respective cord blood plasma (CB) of male newborns or female newborns. Product to substrate ratios were estimated to calculate delta 5 desaturase (D5D), delta 6 desaturase (D6D) and delta 9 stearoyl-CoA-desaturase (D9D/SCD) indices. Pearson correlations and linear regression analyses were employed to determine the associations between MB and CB pairs. In the results, the male infant's MB-CB association was positively correlated with the SCD index of carbon-16 FA, while no correlation was seen for the SCD index of carbon-18 FA. Unlike for males, the CB-D5D index of female neonates presented a strong positive association with the maternal n-6 long chain-polyunsaturated FA (LC-PUFA), arachidonic acid. In addition, the lipogenic desaturation index of SCD18 in the CB of female new-borns was negatively correlated with their MB n-3 DHA. In conclusion, sex-related differences in new-borns' CB desaturation indices are associated with maternal LC-PUFA status at the time of the birth. This examined relationship appears to predict the origin of sex-specific unsaturated FA metabolism seen in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Giriyapura Vamadeva
- Department of Molecular Nutrition, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | | | - Kunal Sharan
- Department of Molecular Nutrition, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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The repertoire of the elongation of very long-chain fatty acids (Elovl) protein family is conserved in tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum): Gene expression profiles offer insights into the sexual differentiation process. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 261:110749. [PMID: 35470007 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2022.110749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Elongation of very long-chain fatty acids (Elovl) proteins are critical players in the regulation of the length of a fatty acid. At present, eight members of the Elovl family (Elovl1-8), displaying a characteristic fatty acid substrate specificity, have been identified in vertebrates, including teleost fish. In general, Elovl1, Elovl3, Elovl6 and Elovl7 exhibit a substrate preference for saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, while Elovl2, Elovl4, Elovl5 and Elovl8 use polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) as substrates. PUFA elongases have received considerable attention in aquatic animals due to their involvement in the conversion of C18 PUFAs to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). Here, we identified the full repertoire of elovl genes in the tambaqui Colossoma macropomum genome. A detailed phylogenetic and synteny analysis suggests a conservation of these genes among teleosts. Furthermore, based on RNAseq gene expression data, we discovered a gender bias expression of elovl genes during sex differentiation of tambaqui, toward future males. Our findings suggest a role of Elovl enzymes and fatty acid metabolism in tambaqui sexual differentiation.
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Poultry Meat and Eggs as an Alternative Source of n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids for Human Nutrition. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091969. [PMID: 35565936 PMCID: PMC9099610 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The beneficial effects of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) on human health are widely known. Humans are rather inefficient in synthesizing n-3 LC-PUFA; thus, these compounds should be supplemented in the diet. However, most Western human diets have unbalanced n-6/n-3 ratios resulting from eating habits and the fact that fish sources (rich in n-3 LC-PUFA) are not sufficient (worldwide deficit ~347,956 t/y) to meet the world requirements. In this context, it is necessary to find new and sustainable sources of n-3 LC-PUFA. Poultry products can provide humans n-3 LC-PUFA due to physiological characteristics and the wide consumption of meat and eggs. The present work aims to provide a general overview of the main strategies that should be adopted during rearing and postproduction to enrich and preserve n-3 LC-PUFA in poultry products. The strategies include dietary supplementation of α-Linolenic acid (ALA) or n-3 LC-PUFA, or enhancing n-3 LC-PUFA by improving the LA (Linoleic acid)/ALA ratio and antioxidant concentrations. Moreover, factors such as genotype, rearing system, transport, and cooking processes can impact the n-3 LC-PUFA in poultry products. The use of a multifactorial view in the entire production chain allows the relevant enrichment and preservation of n-3 LC-PUFA in poultry products.
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Chen CT, Haven S, Lecaj L, Borgstrom M, Torabi M, SanGiovanni JP, Hibbeln JR. Brain PUFA Concentrations Are Differentially Affected by Interactions of Diet, Sex, Brain Regions, and Phospholipid Pools in Mice. J Nutr 2020; 150:3123-3132. [PMID: 33188433 PMCID: PMC7726127 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxaa307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND PUFAs play vital roles in the development, maintenance, and functioning of circuitries that regulate reward and social behaviors. Therefore, modulations in PUFA concentrations of these brain regions may disrupt reward and social circuitries contributing to mood disorders, developmental disabilities, and addictions. Though much is known about regional and phospholipid-pool-specific PUFA concentrations, less is known about the effects of dietary interventions that concurrently lowers n-6 PUFA and supplements n-3 PUFA, on brain PUFA concentrations. There is even less knowledge on the effects of sex on brain PUFA concentrations. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to comprehensively examine the interaction effects of diet (D), sex (S), brain regions (BR), and phospholipid pools (PL) on brain PUFA concentrations. METHODS Male and female C57BL/6J mice were fed 1 of 4 custom-designed diets varying in linoleic acid (LNA) (8 en% or 1 en%) and eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA) (0.4 en% or 0 en%) concentrations from in utero to 15 weeks old. At 15 weeks old, the prefrontal cortex, dorsal striatum, and cerebellum were collected. Fatty acids of 5 major PL were quantified by GC-flame ionization detection. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to test for differences among the groups for D, S, BR, and PL. RESULTS No significant 4-way interactions on PUFA concentrations. DHA, predominant n-3 PUFA, concentrations were dependent on significant D × BR × PL interactions. DHA concentration was not affected by sex. Arachidonic acid (ARA; predominant n-6 PUFA) concentrations were not dependent on 3-way interactions. However, significant 2-way D × PL, BR × PL, and D × Sinteractions affected ARA concentrations. Brain fatty acid concentrations were differentially affected by various combinations of D, S, BR, and PL interactions. CONCLUSION Though DHA concentrations are not affected by sex, ARA concentrations are affected by interactions of the 4 variables examined. This study provides comprehensive references in the investigation of complex interactions between factors that affect brain PUFA concentrations in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophie Haven
- Section on Nutritional Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH, North Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lea Lecaj
- Section on Nutritional Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH, North Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark Borgstrom
- University Information Technology Services, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Mohammad Torabi
- University Information Technology Services, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Joseph R Hibbeln
- Section on Nutritional Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH, North Bethesda, MD, USA
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Gonzalez-Soto M, Mutch DM. Diet Regulation of Long-Chain PUFA Synthesis: Role of Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Polyphenols on Δ-5/Δ-6 Desaturases and Elongases 2/5. Adv Nutr 2020; 12:980-994. [PMID: 33186986 PMCID: PMC8166571 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmaa142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Deficiencies in the n-3 (ω-3) long-chain PUFAs (LC-PUFAs) EPA and DHA are associated with increased risk for the development of numerous diseases. Although n-3 LC-PUFAs can be obtained by consuming marine products, they are also synthesized endogenously through a biochemical pathway regulated by the Δ-5/Δ-6 desaturase and elongase 2/5 enzymes. This narrative review collates evidence from the past 40 y demonstrating that mRNA expression and activity of desaturase and elongase enzymes are influenced by numerous dietary components, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and polyphenols. Specifically, we highlight that both the quantity and the composition of dietary fats, carbohydrates, and proteins can differentially regulate desaturase pathway activity. Furthermore, desaturase and elongase mRNA levels and enzyme activities are also influenced by micronutrients (folate, vitamin B-12, vitamin A), trace minerals (iron, zinc), and polyphenols (resveratrol, isoflavones). Understanding how these various dietary components influence LC-PUFA synthesis will help further advance our understanding of how dietary patterns, ranging from caloric excesses to micronutrient deficiencies, influence disease risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Gonzalez-Soto
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
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Burri L, Heggen K, Storsve AB. Higher omega-3 index after dietary inclusion of omega-3 phospholipids versus omega-3 triglycerides in Alaskan Huskies. Vet World 2020; 13:1167-1173. [PMID: 32801569 PMCID: PMC7396354 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.1167-1173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Numerous studies have found benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), namely, for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in dogs. The objective of the present study was to assess the efficacy of dietary inclusion of equal amounts of omega-3 FAs in phospholipid (PL) from krill meal to triglyceride structure from fish oil to increase the omega-3 FA profile in red blood cells (RBCs) in dogs. Materials and Methods Ten adult Alaskan Huskies of both genders were supplemented with daily 1.7 g EPA and DHA from krill meal for 6 weeks, while another ten dogs received 1.7 g EPA and DHA from fish oil. FA and omega-3 index measurements of the two groups were taken after 0, 3, and 6 weeks for comparison. Results It was mainly the EPA levels that increased in the krill meal group (from 1.84% to 4.42%) compared to the fish oil group (from 1.90% to 2.46%) (p<0.001), which drove the group differences in the omega-3 index. This resulted in the krill meal group having a mean omega-3 index increase from 3.9 at baseline to 6.3%, which was significantly greater than the increase from 3.9% to 4.7% observed in the fish oil group (p<0.001). Concomitantly, omega-6 PUFAs, such as arachidonic acid and linoleic acid, were reduced in RBC membranes and the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio was significantly more reduced in the krill meal compared to the fish oil group. Conclusion The results showed that krill meal supplementation was associated with a reduction of omega-6 PUFAs, which compensated for the increased omega-3 index, suggesting that PLs are efficient delivery molecules of omega-3 PUFAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Burri
- Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, Lysaker, Norway
| | - Knut Heggen
- Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, Lysaker, Norway
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Abstract
AbstractHumans can obtain pre-formed long-chain PUFA from the diet and are also able to convert essential fatty acids (EFA) to longer-chain PUFA. The metabolic pathway responsible for EFA interconversion involves alternating desaturation and carbon chain elongation reactions, and carbon chain shortening by peroxisomal β-oxidation. Studies using stable isotope tracers or diets supplemented with EFA show that capacity for PUFA synthesis is limited in humans, such that DHA (22 : 6n-3) synthesis in men is negligible. PUFA synthesis is higher in women of reproductive age compared with men. However, the magnitude of the contribution of hepatic PUFA synthesis to whole-body PUFA status remains unclear. A number of extra-hepatic tissues have been shown to synthesise PUFA or to express genes for enzymes involved in this pathway. The precise function of extra-hepatic PUFA synthesis is largely unknown, although in T lymphocytes PUFA synthesis is involved in the regulation of cell activation and proliferation. Local PUFA synthesis may also be important for spermatogenesis and fertility. One possible role of extra-hepatic PUFA synthesis is that it may provide PUFA in a timely manner to facilitate specific cell functions. If so, this may suggest novel insights into the effect of dietary PUFA and/or polymorphisms in genes involved in PUFA synthesis on health and tissue function.
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Arachidonic acid and DHA status in pregnant women is not associated with cognitive performance of their children at 4 or 6-7 years. Br J Nutr 2018; 119:1400-1407. [PMID: 29734952 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114518000806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Arachidonic acid (ARA) and DHA, supplied primarily from the mother, are required for early development of the central nervous system. Thus, variations in maternal ARA or DHA status may modify neurocognitive development. We investigated the relationship between maternal ARA and DHA status in early (11·7 weeks) or late (34·5 weeks) pregnancy on neurocognitive function at the age of 4 years or 6-7 years in 724 mother-child pairs from the Southampton Women's Survey cohort. Plasma phosphatidylcholine fatty acid composition was measured in early and late pregnancy. ARA concentration in early pregnancy predicted 13 % of the variation in ARA concentration in late pregnancy (β=0·36, P<0·001). DHA concentration in early pregnancy predicted 21 % of the variation in DHA concentration in late pregnancy (β=0·46, P<0·001). Children's cognitive function at the age of 4 years was assessed by the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence and at the age of 6-7 years by the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence. Executive function at the age of 6-7 years was assessed using elements of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. Neither DHA nor ARA concentrations in early or late pregnancy were associated significantly with neurocognitive function in children at the age of 4 years or the age of 6-7 years. These findings suggest that ARA and DHA status during pregnancy in the range found in this cohort are unlikely to have major influences on neurocognitive function in healthy children.
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Soares AF, Paz-Montoya J, Lei H, Moniatte M, Gruetter R. Sexual dimorphism in hepatic lipids is associated with the evolution of metabolic status in mice. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2017; 30:e3761. [PMID: 28661066 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Ectopic lipid accumulation in the liver is implicated in metabolic disease in an age- and sex-dependent manner. The role of hepatic lipids has been well established within the scope of metabolic insults in mice, but has been insufficiently characterized under standard housing conditions, where age-related metabolic alterations are known to occur. We studied a total of 10 male and 10 female mice longitudinally. At 3, 7 and 11 months of age, non-invasive 1 H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-MRS) was used to monitor hepatic lipid content (HLC) and fatty acid composition in vivo, and glucose homeostasis was assessed with glucose and insulin challenges. At the end of the study, hepatic lipids were comprehensively characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric analyses of liver tissue samples. In males, HLC increased from 1.4 ± 0.1% at 3 months to 2.9 ± 0.3% at 7 months (p < 0.01) and 2.7 ± 0.3% at 11 months (p < 0.05), in correlation with fasting insulin levels (p < 0.01, r = 0.51) and parameters from the insulin tolerance test (ITT; p < 0.001, r = -0.69 versus area under the curve; p < 0.01, r = -0.57 versus blood glucose drop at 1 h post-ITT; p < 0.01, r = 0.55 versus blood glucose at 3 h post-ITT). The metabolic performance of females remained the same throughout the study, and HLC was higher than that of males at 3 months (2.7 ± 0.2%, p < 0.01), but comparable at 7 months (2.2 ± 0.2%) and 11 months (2.2 ± 0.1%). Strong sexual dimorphism in bioactive lipid species, including diacylglycerols (higher in males, p < 0.0001), phosphatidylinositols (higher in females, p < 0.001) and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (higher in females, p < 0.01), was found to be in good correlation with metabolic scores at 11 months. Therefore, in mice housed under standard conditions, sex-specific composition of bioactive lipids is associated with metabolic protection in females, whose metabolic performance was independent of hepatic cytosolic lipid content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Francisca Soares
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Laboratory for Functional and Metabolic Imaging (LIFMET), Lausanne, VD, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Paz-Montoya
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Proteomics Core Facility (PCF), Lausanne, VD, Switzerland
| | - Hongxia Lei
- Center for Biomedical Imaging (CIBM), Lausanne VD, Switzerland and University of Geneva, Department of Radiology, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marc Moniatte
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Proteomics Core Facility (PCF), Lausanne, VD, Switzerland
| | - Rolf Gruetter
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Laboratory for Functional and Metabolic Imaging (LIFMET), Lausanne, VD, Switzerland
- Center for Biomedical Imaging (CIBM), Lausanne VD, Switzerland and University of Geneva, Department of Radiology, Geneva, Switzerland
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Valtolina C, Vaandrager AB, Favier RP, Tuohetahuntila M, Kummeling A, Jeusette I, Rothuizen J, Robben JH. Sex specific differences in hepatic and plasma lipid profiles in healthy cats pre and post spaying and neutering: relationship with feline hepatic lipidosis. BMC Vet Res 2017; 13:231. [PMID: 28789691 PMCID: PMC5549355 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1152-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A link between lipid metabolism and disease has been recognized in cats. Since hepatic lipidosis is a frequent disorder in cats, the aim of the current study was to evaluate liver and plasma lipid dimorphism in healthy cats and the effects of gonadectomy on lipid profiling. From six female and six male cats plasma and liver lipid profiles before and after spaying/neutering were assessed and compared to five cats (three neutered male and two spayed female) diagnosed with hepatic lipidosis. RESULTS Intact female cats had a significantly lower level of plasma triacylglycerides (TAG) and a higher liver level of the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid arachidonic acid (AA) compared to their neutered state. Both male and female cats with lipidosis had a higher liver, but not plasma TAG level and an increased level of plasma and liver sphingomyelin compared to the healthy cats. CONCLUSION Although lipid dimorphism in healthy cats resembles that of other species, intact female cats show differences in metabolic configuration that could predispose them to develop hepatic lipidosis. The increased sphingomyelin levels in cats with lipidosis could suggest a potential role in the pathogenesis of hepatic lipidosis in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Valtolina
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Arie B Vaandrager
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Robert P Favier
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maidina Tuohetahuntila
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Kummeling
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Jeusette
- Research and Development, Affinity Petcare, Pl. Xavier Cugat, 2 Edificio D, 3ª, Planta, 08174 St. Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jan Rothuizen
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joris H Robben
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Ranković S, Popović T, Martačić JD, Petrović S, Tomić M, Ignjatović Đ, Tovilović-Kovačević G, Glibetić M. Liver phospholipids fatty acids composition in response to different types of diets in rats of both sexes. Lipids Health Dis 2017; 16:94. [PMID: 28526084 PMCID: PMC5437631 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-017-0483-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary intake influence changes in fatty acids (FA) profiles in liver which plays a central role in fatty acid metabolism, triacylglycerol synthesis and energy homeostasis. We investigated the effects of 4-weeks treatment with milk- and fish-based diet, on plasma biochemical parameters and FA composition of liver phospholipids (PL) in rats of both sexes. Methods Adult, 4 months old, Wistar rats of both sexes, were fed with different types of diets: standard, milk-based and fish-based, during 4 weeks. Analytical characterization of different foods was done. Biochemical parameters in plasma were determined. Fatty acid composition was analyzed by gas-chromatography. Statistical significance of FA levels was tested with two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the sex of animals and treatment (type of diet) as factors on logarithmic or trigonometric transformed data. Results Our results showed that both, milk- and fish-based diet, changed the composition and ratio of rat liver phospholipids FA, in gender-specific manner. Initially present sex differences appear to be dietary modulated. Although, applied diets changed the ratio of total saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and effects were gender specific. Milk-based diet lowered SFA and elevated MUFA in males and increased PUFA in females vs. standard diet. The same diet decreased n-3, increased n-6 and n-6/n-3 ratio in males. Fish-based diet increased n-3, decreased n-6 and n-6/n-3 ratio vs. standard and milk-based diet in females. However, the ratio of individual FA in liver PL was also dietary-influenced, but with gender specific manner. While in females fish-based diet decreased AA (arachidonic acid) increased level of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), the same diet elevated only DHA levels in males. Conclusion Gender related variations in FA composition of rat liver PL were observed, and results have shown that those initial differences could be significantly modulated by the type of diet. Furthermore, the modulatory effects of milk- and fish-based diets on liver phospholipids FA profiles appeared to be sex-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavica Ranković
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Tadeuša Košćuška 1, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia.
| | - Tamara Popović
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Tadeuša Košćuška 1, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia
| | - Jasmina Debeljak Martačić
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Tadeuša Košćuška 1, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia
| | - Snježana Petrović
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Tadeuša Košćuška 1, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia
| | - Mirko Tomić
- Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11060, Serbia
| | - Đurđica Ignjatović
- Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11060, Serbia
| | - Gordana Tovilović-Kovačević
- Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11060, Serbia
| | - Maria Glibetić
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Tadeuša Košćuška 1, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia
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Brasil FB, Amarante LH, Oliveira MRD. Maternal folic acid consumption during gestation and its long-term effects on offspring's liver: a systematic review. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE SAÚDE MATERNO INFANTIL 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-93042017000100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: describing the effects of maternal supplementation with folic acid (FA) exclusively during gestation on offspring's liver at later stages in life. Supplementation with FA during gestation has been recommended by the medical society worldwide. The liver has a central role on the substances of metabolism and homeostasis and some studies have shown that a high intake of FA at other periods in life may cause hepatic damage. Methods: a systematic review through which the following databases were consulted: Medline, through platforms of Pubmed, Lilacs and Scielo. The research was performed by keywords such as: "Folic acid", "Gestation", "Rat", "Offspring" and "Liver". Articles which evaluate the effect of FA consumption during both gestation and lactation were excluded. Results: FA consumption avoids disorders on expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and glucocorticoid receptor (GccR), its lack did not change enzyme activity of the male offspring's liver in adulthood. Supplementation with FA during gestation did not change iron hepatic levels or lipid composition, but had an antioxidant effect on it. Conclusions: supplementation with FA at recommended doses did not cause toxic effects and is very likely to avoid deleterious effects in the liver of the offspring regarding the epigenetic level.
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Lin YH, Brown JA, DiMartino C, Dahms I, Salem N, Hibbeln JR. Differences in long chain polyunsaturates composition and metabolism in male and female rats. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2016; 113:19-27. [PMID: 27720036 PMCID: PMC5081227 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Human studies and some animal work have shown more docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) was accumulated or converted from precursors in females compared to males. This study explored in-depth the effect of gender on fatty acid composition and polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism in rats fed one of two well-defined diets containing 10% total fat. One diet contained 15% of linoleic acid (LA) and 3% of α-linolenic acid (ALA) of the total fatty acids (LA+ALA diet), while the other diet contained 15% LA and 0.05% ALA (LA diet). At the age of 20 weeks, all animals were orally administered a single dose of a mixture of deuterium-labeled LA and ALA. Caudal venous blood was then drawn at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 96 and 168h. The concentrations of the deuterated precursors and their metabolites in plasma total lipids were quantified by GC/MS negative chemical ionization. Endogenous fatty acids were quantified by GC/FID analysis. When expressed as the percentage of oral dosage, female rats accumulated more precursors and more products, deuterated DHA and deuterated n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (2H5-DPAn-6), in plasma than did male rats in both the LA+ALA diet and the LA diet. For the endogenous non-labeled PUFA, greater concentrations of DHA and DPAn-6 were similarly observed in female rats compared to males within each diet. A lower concentration of non-labeled ARA was observed only in female rats fed the LA+ALA diet. In summary, greater endogenous and exogenous DHA and DPAn-6 was observed in female rat plasma and this was independent of dietary ALA status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hong Lin
- Section of Nutritional Neuroscience, LMBB, NIAAA, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States.
| | - James A Brown
- Section of Nutritional Neuroscience, LMBB, NIAAA, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Carmine DiMartino
- Section of Nutritional Neuroscience, LMBB, NIAAA, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Irina Dahms
- Nutritional Lipids, DSM Nutritional Products, LLC, Columbia, MD, United States
| | - Norman Salem
- Nutritional Lipids, DSM Nutritional Products, LLC, Columbia, MD, United States
| | - Joseph R Hibbeln
- Section of Nutritional Neuroscience, LMBB, NIAAA, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Ramezani-Fard E, Kamarudin MS, Arshad A, Goh YM, Ebrahimi M. Variation in the Fatty Acid Composition Between and Within Two Mantis Shrimp Species,Harpiosquilla harpaxandMiyakea nepa: Impact of Season and Sex. JOURNAL OF AQUATIC FOOD PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/10498850.2014.933943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Metabolic fate (absorption, β-oxidation and deposition) of long-chain n-3 fatty acids is affected by sex and by the oil source (krill oil or fish oil) in the rat. Br J Nutr 2015; 114:684-92. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114515002457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The effects of krill oil as an alternative source of n-3 long-chain PUFA have been investigated recently. There are conflicting results from the few available studies comparing fish oil and krill oil. The aim of this study was to compare the bioavailability and metabolic fate (absorption, β-oxidation and tissue deposition) of n-3 fatty acids originating from krill oil (phospholipid-rich) or fish oil (TAG-rich) in rats of both sexes using the whole-body fatty acid balance method. Sprague–Dawley rats (thirty-six male, thirty-six female) were randomly assigned to be fed either a krill oil diet (EPA+DHA+DPA=1·38 mg/g of diet) or a fish oil diet (EPA+DHA+DPA=1·61 mg/g of diet) to constant ration for 6 weeks. The faeces, whole body and individual tissues were analysed for fatty acid content. Absorption of fatty acids was significantly greater in female rats and was only minimally affected by the oil type. It was estimated that most of EPA (>90 %) and more than half of DHA (>60 %) were β-oxidised in both diet groups. Most of the DPA was β-oxidised (57 and 67 % for female and male rats, respectively) in the fish oil group; however, for the krill oil group, the majority of DPA was deposited (82–83 %). There was a significantly greater deposition of DPA and DHA in rats fed krill oil compared with those fed fish oil, not due to a difference in bioavailability (absorption) but rather due to a difference in metabolic fate (anabolism v. catabolism).
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Male-Specific Cardiac Dysfunction in CTP:Phosphoethanolamine Cytidylyltransferase (Pcyt2)-Deficient Mice. Mol Cell Biol 2015; 35:2641-57. [PMID: 25986609 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00380-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) is the most abundant inner membrane phospholipid. PE synthesis from ethanolamine and diacylglycerol is regulated primarily by CTP:phosphoethanolamine cytidylyltransferase (Pcyt2). Pcyt2(+/-) mice have reduced PE synthesis and, as a consequence, perturbed glucose and fatty acid metabolism, which gradually leads to the development of hyperlipidemia, obesity, and insulin resistance. Glucose and fatty acid uptake and the corresponding transporters Glut4 and Cd36 are similarly impaired in male and female Pcyt2(+/-) hearts. These mice also have similarly reduced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt1 signaling and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the heart. However, only Pcyt2(+/-) males develop hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy. Pcyt2(+/-) males have upregulated heart AceI expression, heart phospholipids enriched in arachidonic acid and other n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and dramatically increased ROS production in the aorta. In contrast, Pcyt2(+/-) females have unmodified heart phospholipids but have reduced heart triglyceride levels and altered expression of the structural genes Acta (low) and Myh7 (high). These changes together protect Pcyt2(+/-) females from cardiac dysfunction under conditions of reduced glucose and fatty acid uptake and heart insulin resistance. Our data identify Pcyt2 and membrane PE biogenesis as important determinants of gender-specific differences in cardiac lipids and heart function.
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Roy S, Dhobale M, Dangat K, Mehendale S, Wagh G, Lalwani S, Joshi S. Differential levels of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in women with preeclampsia delivering male and female babies. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2014; 91:227-32. [PMID: 25172358 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Maternal long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) play a key role in fetal growth and development. This study for the first time examines the maternal and cord LCPUFA levels in preeclamptic mothers delivering male and female infants. In this study 122 normotensive control pregnant women (gestation≥37 weeks) and 90 women with preeclampsia were recruited. Results indicate lower maternal plasma docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels (p<0.05) in women with preeclampsia delivering male babies as compared to normotensive control women delivering male babies. Similarly, cord nervonic acid levels were lower (p<0.01) in women with preeclampsia delivering male babies as compared to normotensive control group. However, cord nervonic acid levels were comparable in women with preeclampsia and normotensive control women delivering female babies. This data suggests that male babies born to mothers with preeclampsia may be at an increased risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders as compared to female babies. Future studies need to follow up both male and female children born to mothers with preeclampsia since altered levels of LCPUFA at birth may have differential implications for the growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Roy
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs; Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune 411043, India
| | - Madhavi Dhobale
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs; Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune 411043, India
| | - Kamini Dangat
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs; Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune 411043, India
| | - Savita Mehendale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, India
| | - Girija Wagh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, India
| | - Sanjay Lalwani
- Department of Paediatrics, Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, India
| | - Sadhana Joshi
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs; Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune 411043, India.
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Supplementation with N-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids or olive oil in men and women with renal disease induces differential changes in the DNA methylation of FADS2 and ELOVL5 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109896. [PMID: 25329159 PMCID: PMC4201459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies in animal models and in cultured cells have shown that fatty acids can induce alterations in the DNA methylation of specific genes. There have been no studies of the effects of fatty acid supplementation on the epigenetic regulation of genes in adult humans. Methods and Results We investigated the effect of supplementing renal patients with 4 g daily of either n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) or olive oil (OO) for 8 weeks on the methylation status of individual CpG loci in the 5′ regulatory region of genes involved in PUFA biosynthesis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from men and women (aged 53 to 63 years). OO and n-3 LCPUFA each altered (>10% difference in methylation) 2/22 fatty acid desaturase (FADS)-2 CpGs, while n-3 LCPUFA, but not OO, altered (>10%) 1/12 ELOVL5 CpGs in men. OO altered (>6%) 8/22 FADS2 CpGs and (>3%) 3/12 elongase (ELOVL)-5 CpGs, while n-3 LCPUFA altered (>5%) 3/22 FADS2 CpGs and 2/12 (>3%) ELOVL5 CpGs in women. FADS1 or ELOVL2 methylation was unchanged. The n-3 PUFA supplementation findings were replicated in blood DNA from healthy adults (aged 23 to 30 years). The methylation status of the altered CpGs in FADS2 and ELOVL5 was associated negatively with the level of their transcripts. Conclusions These findings show that modest fatty acid supplementation can induce altered methylation of specific CpG loci in adult humans, contingent on the nature of the supplement and on sex. This has implications for understanding the effect of fatty acids on PUFA metabolism and cell function.
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20
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Hanson MA, Gluckman PD. Early developmental conditioning of later health and disease: physiology or pathophysiology? Physiol Rev 2014; 94:1027-76. [PMID: 25287859 PMCID: PMC4187033 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00029.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 714] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive experimental animal studies and epidemiological observations have shown that environmental influences during early development affect the risk of later pathophysiological processes associated with chronic, especially noncommunicable, disease (NCD). This field is recognized as the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). We discuss the extent to which DOHaD represents the result of the physiological processes of developmental plasticity, which may have potential adverse consequences in terms of NCD risk later, or whether it is the manifestation of pathophysiological processes acting in early life but only becoming apparent as disease later. We argue that the evidence suggests the former, through the operation of conditioning processes induced across the normal range of developmental environments, and we summarize current knowledge of the physiological processes involved. The adaptive pathway to later risk accords with current concepts in evolutionary developmental biology, especially those concerning parental effects. Outside the normal range, effects on development can result in nonadaptive processes, and we review their underlying mechanisms and consequences. New concepts concerning the underlying epigenetic and other mechanisms involved in both disruptive and nondisruptive pathways to disease are reviewed, including the evidence for transgenerational passage of risk from both maternal and paternal lines. These concepts have wider implications for understanding the causes and possible prevention of NCDs such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, for broader social policy and for the increasing attention paid in public health to the lifecourse approach to NCD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Hanson
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, and NIHR Nutrition Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom; and Liggins Institute and Gravida (National Centre for Growth and Development), University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - P D Gluckman
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, and NIHR Nutrition Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom; and Liggins Institute and Gravida (National Centre for Growth and Development), University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Mason JK, Kharotia S, Wiggins AKA, Kitson AP, Chen J, Bazinet RP, Thompson LU. 17β-Estradiol Increases Liver and Serum Docosahexaenoic Acid in Mice Fed Varying Levels of α-Linolenic Acid. Lipids 2014; 49:745-56. [DOI: 10.1007/s11745-014-3913-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Sibbons CM, Brenna JT, Lawrence P, Hoile SP, Clarke-Harris R, Lillycrop KA, Burdge GC. Effect of sex hormones on n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis in HepG2 cells and in human primary hepatocytes. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2014; 90:47-54. [PMID: 24411721 PMCID: PMC4046896 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Female humans and rodents have been shown to have higher 22:6n-3 status and synthesis than males. It is unclear which sex hormone is involved. We investigated the specificity of the effects of physiological concentrations of sex hormones in vitro on the mRNA expression of genes involved in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) biosynthesis and on the conversion of [d5]-18:3n-3 to longer chain fatty acids. Progesterone, but not 17α-ethynylestradiol or testosterone, increased FADS2, FADS1, ELOVl 5 and ELOVl 2 mRNA expression in HepG2 cells, but only FADS2 in primary human hepatocytes. In HepG2 cells, these changes were accompanied by hypomethylation of specific CpG loci in the FADS2 promoter. Progesterone, not 17α-ethynylestradiol or testosterone, increased conversion of [d5]-18:3n-3 to 20:5n-3, 22:5n-3 and 22:6n-3. These findings show that progesterone increases n-3 PUFA biosynthesis by up-regulating the mRNA expression of genes involved in this pathway, possibly via changes in the epigenetic regulation of FADS2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene M Sibbons
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - J Thomas Brenna
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Peter Lawrence
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Samuel P Hoile
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rebecca Clarke-Harris
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Karen A Lillycrop
- Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Graham C Burdge
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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Zhao JP, Levy E, Fraser WD, Julien P, Delvin E, Montoudis A, Spahis S, Garofalo C, Nuyt AM, Luo ZC. Circulating docosahexaenoic acid levels are associated with fetal insulin sensitivity. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85054. [PMID: 24454790 PMCID: PMC3890289 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Arachidonic acid (AA; C20∶4 n-6) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22∶6 n-3) are important long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) in maintaining pancreatic beta-cell structure and function. Newborns of gestational diabetic mothers are more susceptible to the development of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. It is not known whether low circulating AA or DHA is involved in perinatally “programming” this susceptibility. This study aimed to assess whether circulating concentrations of AA, DHA and other fatty acids are associated with fetal insulin sensitivity or beta-cell function, and whether low circulating concentrations of AA or DHA are involved in compromised fetal insulin sensitivity in gestational diabetic pregnancies. Methods and Principal Findings In a prospective singleton pregnancy cohort, maternal (32-35 weeks gestation) and cord plasma fatty acids were assessed in relation to surrogate indicators of fetal insulin sensitivity (cord plasma glucose-to-insulin ratio, proinsulin concentration) and beta-cell function (proinsulin-to-insulin ratio) in 108 mother-newborn pairs. Cord plasma DHA levels (in percentage of total fatty acids) were lower comparing newborns of gestational diabetic (n = 24) vs. non-diabetic pregnancies (2.9% vs. 3.5%, P = 0.01). Adjusting for gestational age at blood sampling, lower cord plasma DHA levels were associated with lower fetal insulin sensitivity (lower glucose-to-insulin ratio, r = 0.20, P = 0.036; higher proinsulin concentration, r = −0.37, P <0.0001). The associations remained after adjustment for maternal and newborn characteristics. Cord plasma saturated fatty acids C18∶0 and C20∶0 were negatively correlated with fetal insulin sensitivity, but their levels were not different between gestational diabetic and non-diabetic pregnancies. Cord plasma AA levels were not correlated with fetal insulin sensitivity. Conclusion Low circulating DHA levels are associated with compromised fetal insulin sensitivity, and may be involved in perinatally “programming” the susceptibility to type 2 diabetes in the offspring of gestational diabetic mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ping Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emile Levy
- Department of Nutrition, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - William D. Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pierre Julien
- Endocrinology and Nephrology, Laval University Hospital Research Centre, and Department of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Edgard Delvin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Montoudis
- Department of Nutrition, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Schohraya Spahis
- Department of Nutrition, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carole Garofalo
- Department of Nutrition, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne Monique Nuyt
- Department of Pediatrics, Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zhong-Cheng Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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Kitson AP, Marks KA, Shaw B, Mutch DM, Stark KD. Treatment of ovariectomized rats with 17β-estradiol increases hepatic delta-6 desaturase enzyme expression and docosahexaenoic acid levels in hepatic and plasma phospholipids. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2013; 89:81-8. [PMID: 23764042 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2013.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2013] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Higher docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in females compared with males suggests ovarian hormones increase DHA production. Eight-week old rats were ovariectomized or sham operated (SHAM), and ovariectomized rats were treated with implanted pellets providing 17β-estradiol (OVX+E), progesterone (OVX+P), both (OVX+PE) or neither (OVX) for 14 days. Immunoblot and fatty acid analysis were performed on all samples, and microarray analysis was performed on OVX and SHAM groups. Increased Δ6-desaturase in OVX relative to SHAM was observed by microarray (12% higher) and immunoblot (31% higher). OVX+E and OVX+PE rats had 39% and 42% higher Δ6-desaturase content, respectively, compared with OVX. OVX+E and OVX+PE also increased phospholipid DHA concentrations in liver (increase of 34% and 40%, respectively) and plasma (increase of 70% and 74%, respectively) relative to OVX. Progesterone exerted no effect on Δ6-desaturase or DHA. These results indicate that 17β-estradiol increases DHA through increased Δ6-desaturase, possibly explaining sex differences in DHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex P Kitson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
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25
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Effect of sex hormones on n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism and FADS2 mRNA expression in HepG2 cells. Proc Nutr Soc 2013. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665113001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Hepatic and plasma sex differences in saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids are associated with differences in expression of elongase 6, but not stearoyl-CoA desaturase in Sprague-Dawley rats. GENES AND NUTRITION 2012. [PMID: 23180365 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-012-0325-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) have been viewed as either beneficial or neutral with respect to health; however, recent evidence suggests that MUFA may be associated with obesity and cardiovascular disease. Sex differences in MUFA composition have been reported in both rats and humans, but the basis for this sexual dimorphism is unknown. In the current study, enzymes involved in MUFA biosynthesis are examined in rat and cell culture models. Male and female rats were maintained on an AIN-93G diet prior to killing at 14 weeks of age after an overnight fast. Concentrations of 16:0 (2,757 ± 616 vs. 3,515 ± 196 μg fatty acid/g liver in males), 18:1n-7 (293 ± 66 vs. 527 ± 49 μg/g) and 18:1n-9 (390 ± 80 vs. 546 ± 47 μg/g) were lower, and concentrations of 18:0 (5,943 ± 1,429 vs. 3,987 ± 325 μg/g) were higher in phospholipids in livers from female rats compared with males. Hepatic elongase 6 mRNA and protein were 5.9- and 2.0-fold higher, respectively, in females compared with males. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase expression did not differ. Specific hormonal effects were examined in HepG2 cells cultured with varying concentrations of 17β-estradiol, progesterone and testosterone (0, 10, 30 and 100 nM) for 72 h. Progesterone and 17β-estradiol treatments increased, while testosterone decreased, elongase 6 protein. Sex differences in MUFA composition were associated with increased expression of hepatic elongase 6 in females relative to male rats, which appears to be mediated by sex hormones based on observations of hormonal treatments of HepG2 cells.
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Kitson AP, Smith TL, Marks KA, Stark KD. Tissue-specific sex differences in docosahexaenoic acid and Δ6-desaturase in rats fed a standard chow diet. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2012; 37:1200-11. [PMID: 23050796 DOI: 10.1139/h2012-103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) is higher in the blood and tissues of females relative to males, but the underlying mechanism is not clear. The present study examined the expression of enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of DHA from short-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in male and female rats (n = 6 for each sex). Rats were maintained on an AIN-93G diet and sacrificed at 14 weeks of age after an overnight fast. Plasma, erythrocytes, liver, heart, and brain were collected for fatty acid composition analysis and the determination of enzyme and transcription factor expression by RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Females had higher DHA concentrations in the total lipids of liver, plasma, erythrocyte, and heart (53%, 75%, 36%, and 25% higher, respectively, compared with males) with no sex differences in brain DHA concentrations. The mRNA content of Δ5-desaturase, Δ6-desaturase, and elongase 2 was 1.0-, 1.4-, and 1.1-fold higher, respectively, in the livers of female rats compared with males, with no differences in the hearts or brains. The protein content of Δ6-desaturase was also higher in females. Higher hepatic mRNA of sterol-regulatory element-binding protein 1-c and estrogen receptor α in the females suggests that lipogenic and estrogen signaling mechanisms are involved. The sex difference in DHA concentration is tissue specific and is associated with higher Δ6-desaturase expression in females relative to males, which appears to be limited to the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex P Kitson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
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28
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Prenatal famine exposure, health in later life and promoter methylation of four candidate genes. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2012; 3:450-7. [DOI: 10.1017/s2040174412000396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Poor nutrition during fetal development can permanently alter growth, cardiovascular physiology and metabolic function. Animal studies have shown that prenatal undernutrition followed by balanced postnatal nutrition alters deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation of gene promoter regions of candidate metabolic control genes in the liver. The aim of this study was to investigate whether methylation status of the proximal promoter regions of four candidate genes differed between individuals exposed to the Dutch famine in utero. In addition, we determined whether methylation status of these genes was associated with markers of metabolic and cardiovascular disease and adult lifestyle. Methylation status of the GR1-C (glucocorticoid receptor), PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), lipoprotein lipase and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase p85 proximal promoters was investigated in DNA isolated from peripheral blood samples of 759 58-year-old subjects born around the time of the 1944–45 Dutch famine. We observed no differences in methylation levels of the promoters between exposed and unexposed men and women. Methylation status of PPARγ was associated with levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides as well as with exercise and smoking. Hypomethylation of the GR promoter was associated with adverse adult lifestyle factors, including higher body mass index, less exercise and more smoking. The previously reported increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease after prenatal famine exposure was not associated with differences in methylation status across the promoter regions of these candidate genes measured in peripheral blood. The adult environment seems to affect GR and PPARγ promoter methylation.
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29
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Childs CE, Hoile SP, Burdge GC, Calder PC. Changes in rat n-3 and n-6 fatty acid composition during pregnancy are associated with progesterone concentrations and hepatic FADS2 expression. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2012; 86:141-7. [PMID: 22495065 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2012] [Revised: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms responsible for changes to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC PUFA) status during pregnancy have not been fully elucidated. Tissue samples were collected from virgin and pregnant (day 12 and 20) female rats. LC PUFA status, sex hormone concentrations and hepatic mRNA expression of FADS1, FADS2 and elongase were assessed. Day 20 gestation females had higher plasma and liver docosahexaenoic acid and lower arachidonic acid content than virgin females (P<0.05). There was higher FADS2 mRNA expression during pregnancy (P=0.051). Progesterone and oestradiol concentrations positively correlated with hepatic FADS2 mRNA expression (P=0.043, P=0.004). Progesterone concentration positively correlated with hepatic n-6 docosapentaenoic acid content (P=0.006), and inversely correlated with intermediates in LC PUFA synthesis including n-3 docosapentaenoic acid, γ-linolenic acid and 20:2n-6 (P<0.05). Changes in progesterone and oestradiol during pregnancy may promote the synthesis of LC PUFA via increased FADS2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Childs
- Human Development and Health Academic Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom.
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Lillycrop KA, Burdge GC. The effect of nutrition during early life on the epigenetic regulation of transcription and implications for human diseases. JOURNAL OF NUTRIGENETICS AND NUTRIGENOMICS 2012; 4:248-60. [PMID: 22353662 DOI: 10.1159/000334857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes which include DNA methylation, histone modification and miRNAs are integral in determining when and where specific genes are expressed. There is now increasing evidence that the epigenome is susceptible to a variety of environmental cues, such as nutrition, during specific periods of development. The changes induced by early-life nutrition may reflect an adaptive response of the foetus to environmental cues acting through the process of developmental plasticity. This may allow an organism to adjust its developmental programme resulting in long-term changes in its metabolism and physiology in order to be better matched to the future environment. However, when the future environment lies outside the anticipated range, metabolic and homoeostatic capacity will be mismatched with the environment and that individual will be at increased risk of developing a range of non-communicable diseases. Thus the environmental regulation of epigenetic processes is a central component in the developmental origins of non-communicable diseases and our understanding of these processes is, therefore, critical both for the identification of individuals at risk and for the development of new intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Lillycrop
- Centre for Biological Sciences, Institute of Developmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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31
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Decsi T, Kennedy K. Sex-specific differences in essential fatty acid metabolism. Am J Clin Nutr 2011; 94:1914S-1919S. [PMID: 22089435 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.110.000893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones may influence the enzymatic synthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs), which may lead to sex-specific differences in LC-PUFA status. Isotope studies with U-(13)C α-linolenic acid (ALA) have shown a considerably higher conversion rate of ALA to n-3 (omega-3) LC-PUFAs in women than in men. A review of the literature generally suggested that there was a higher contribution of arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in blood lipids in women than in men; however, sex-specific differences were not seen in every study. The fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipids was recently reported separately for a large group of women and men (n > 3000) living in 15 regions of Europe. The contributions of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were higher, whereas those of AA and DHA were lower in men than in women; however, sex explained only ≈ 2% of the variability of plasma phospholipid DHA values. Results reported from a limited number of randomized controlled trials of perinatal LC-PUFA supplementation have, on occasion, shown sex-specific differences in some outcomes; however, the heterogeneity both in the interventions and outcomes measured made it difficult to draw conclusions on the direction or the extent of the effects. Data summarized in the current review highlight the importance of planning a subgroup analysis by sex in perinatal LC-PUFA supplementation trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Decsi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
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32
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Fish intake, erythrocyten-3 fatty acid status and metabolic health in Danish adolescent girls and boys. Br J Nutr 2011; 107:697-704. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114511002418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Marinen-3 long-chain PUFA (n-3 LCPUFA) may have a beneficial effect on several aspects of the metabolic syndrome (dyslipidaemia, insulin resistance, hypertension and abdominal obesity). The metabolic syndrome is increasing in prevalence during adolescence, but only few studies have investigated the effects ofn-3 LCPUFA in adolescence. The present study examines associations between fish intake (assessed by a 7 d pre-coded food diary), erythrocyte (RBC) DHA status (analysed by GC) and metabolic syndrome measures (anthropometry, blood pressure and plasma lipids, insulin and glucose) in 109 17-year-old children from the Copenhagen Birth Cohort Study. Of the children, 8 % were overweight or obese and few showed signs of the metabolic syndrome, but all the metabolic syndrome variables were correlated. Median fish intake was 10·7 (interquartile range 3·6–21·2) g/d. Boys tended to have a higher fish intake (P = 0·052), but girls had significantly higher RBC levels of DHA (P = 0·001). Sex and fish intake explained 37 % of the variance in RBC-DHA (P < 0·001). After adjusting for confounders, high DHA status was found to be significantly correlated with higher systolic blood pressure (P = 0·014) and increased fasting insulin (P = 0·018), but no adverse association was observed with the mean metabolic syndromez-score. Overall, the present study showed the expected association between fish intake and RBC-DHA, which in contrast to our expectations tended to be associated with a poorer metabolic profile. Whether these results reflect the physiological function ofn-3 LCPUFA, lifestyle factors associated with fish intake in Denmark, or mere chance remains to be investigated.
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Burdge GC. Polyunsaturated fatty acid intakes and α-linolenic acid metabolism. Am J Clin Nutr 2011; 93:665-6; author reply 666-7. [PMID: 21191139 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.110.008169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Marino M, Masella R, Bulzomi P, Campesi I, Malorni W, Franconi F. Nutrition and human health from a sex-gender perspective. Mol Aspects Med 2011; 32:1-70. [PMID: 21356234 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition exerts a life-long impact on human health, and the interaction between nutrition and health has been known for centuries. The recent literature has suggested that nutrition could differently influence the health of male and female individuals. Until the last decade of the 20th century, research on women has been neglected, and the results obtained in men have been directly translated to women in both the medicine and nutrition fields. Consequently, most modern guidelines are based on studies predominantly conducted on men. However, there are many sex-gender differences that are the result of multifactorial inputs, including gene repertoires, sex steroid hormones, and environmental factors (e.g., food components). The effects of these different inputs in male and female physiology will be different in different periods of ontogenetic development as well as during pregnancy and the ovarian cycle in females, which are also age dependent. As a result, different strategies have evolved to maintain male and female body homeostasis, which, in turn, implies that there are important differences in the bioavailability, metabolism, distribution, and elimination of foods and beverages in males and females. This article will review some of these differences underlying the impact of food components on the risk of developing diseases from a sex-gender perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marino
- Department of Biology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy
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35
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Abstract
The rapid increase in the incidence of chronic non-communicable diseases over the past two decades cannot be explained solely by genetic and adult lifestyle factors. There is now considerable evidence that the fetal and early postnatal environment also strongly influences the risk of developing such diseases in later life. Human studies have shown that low birth weight is associated with an increased risk of CVD, type II diabetes, obesity and hypertension, although recent studies have shown that over-nutrition in early life can also increase susceptibility to future metabolic disease. These findings have been replicated in a variety of animal models, which have shown that both maternal under- and over-nutrition can induce persistent changes in gene expression and metabolism within the offspring. The mechanism by which the maternal nutritional environment induces such changes is beginning to be understood and involves the altered epigenetic regulation of specific genes. The demonstration of a role for altered epigenetic regulation of genes in the developmental induction of chronic diseases raises the possibility that nutritional or pharmaceutical interventions may be used to modify long-term cardio-metabolic disease risk and combat this rapid rise in chronic non-communicable diseases.
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36
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Slater-Jefferies JL, Hoile SP, Lillycrop KA, Townsend PA, Hanson MA, Burdge GC. Effect of sex and dietary fat intake on the fatty acid composition of phospholipids and triacylglycerol in rat heart. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2010; 83:219-23. [PMID: 20719489 PMCID: PMC3000522 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2010.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Revised: 07/20/2010] [Accepted: 07/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Variations in the fatty acid composition of lipids in the heart alter its function and susceptibility to ischaemic injury. We investigated the effect of sex and dietary fat intake on the fatty acid composition of phospholipids and triacylglycerol in rat heart. Rats were fed either 40 or 100g/kg fat (9:1 lard:soybean oil) from weaning until day 105. There were significant interactive effects of sex and fat intake on the proportions of fatty acids in heart phospholipids, dependent on phospholipid classes. 20:4n-6, but not 22:6n-3, was higher in phospholipids in females than males fed a low, but not a high, fat diet. There was no effect of sex on the composition of triacylglycerol. These findings suggest that sex is an important factor in determining the incorporation of dietary fatty acids into cardiac lipids. This may have implications for sex differences in susceptibility to heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne L. Slater-Jefferies
- Institute of Human Nutrition, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, MP887, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Samuel P. Hoile
- Institute of Human Nutrition, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, MP887, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Karen A. Lillycrop
- Development and Cell Biology, University of Southampton School of Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - Paul A. Townsend
- Human Genetics Division, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Mark A. Hanson
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Graham C. Burdge
- Institute of Human Nutrition, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, MP887, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
- Corresponding author. +44 2380798663; fax: +44 2380795255.
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Abstract
The rapid increase in incidence of obesity over the past two decades cannot be explained solely by genetic and adult lifestyle factors. There is now considerable evidence that the fetal and early postnatal environments also strongly influence the risk of developing obesity in later life. Initially, human studies showed that low birth weight was associated with an increased risk of obesity but increasingly there is evidence that overnutrition in the early life can also increase susceptibility to future obesity. These findings have now been replicated in animal models, which have shown that both maternal under- and overnutrition can induce persistent changes in gene expression and metabolism. The mechanism by which the maternal nutritional environment induces such changes is beginning to be understood and involves the altered epigenetic regulation of specific genes. In this review, we discuss the recent evidence that shows that early-life environment can induce altered epigenetic regulation leading to the induction of an altered phenotype. The demonstration of a role for altered epigenetic regulation of genes in the developmental induction of obesity opens the possibility that interventions, either through nutrition or specific drugs, may modify long-term obesity risk and combat this rapid rise in obesity.
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38
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Kitson AP, Stroud CK, Stark KD. Elevated production of docosahexaenoic acid in females: potential molecular mechanisms. Lipids 2010; 45:209-24. [PMID: 20151220 DOI: 10.1007/s11745-010-3391-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 01/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Observational evidence suggests that in populations consuming low levels of n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids, women have higher blood levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:3n-6) as compared with men. Increased conversion of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA; 18:3n-3) to DHA by females has been confirmed in fatty acid stable isotope studies. This difference in conversion appears to be associated with estrogen and some evidence indicates that the expression of enzymes involved in synthesis of DHA from ALA, including desaturases and elongases, is elevated in females. An estrogen-associated effect may be mediated by peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-alpha (PPARalpha), as activation of this nuclear receptor increases the expression of these enzymes. However, because estrogens are weak ligands for PPARalpha, estrogen-mediated increases in PPARalpha activity likely occur through an indirect mechanism involving membrane-bound estrogen receptors and estrogen-sensitive G-proteins. The protein kinases activated by these receptors phosphorylate and increase the activity of PPARalpha, as well as phospholipase A(2) and cyclooxygenase 2 that increase the intracellular concentration of PPARalpha ligands. This review will outline current knowledge regarding elevated DHA production in females, as well as highlight interactions between estrogen signaling and PPARalpha activity that may mediate this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex P Kitson
- Laboratory of Nutritional and Nutraceutical Research, Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
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Childs CE, Romeu-Nadal M, Burdge GC, Calder PC. The polyunsaturated fatty acid composition of hepatic and plasma lipids differ by both sex and dietary fat intake in rats. J Nutr 2010; 140:245-50. [PMID: 20007335 DOI: 10.3945/jn.109.115691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In rats and humans, females have higher liver and/or plasma docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content than males. We hypothesized that the effect of variation in total fat or essential fatty acid intakes on liver and plasma fatty acid composition would differ between sexes. Rats were fed a low-fat soybean oil (LFS), high-fat soybean oil (HFS), or high-fat linseed oil (HFL) diet for 20 d. There were significant sex differences in LFS rats in proportions of (n-3) and (n-6) fatty acids in plasma and liver contingent on lipid class. Significant diet x sex interactions were observed for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), DHA, and arachidonic acid (AA) status. HFL females had a higher proportion of EPA in plasma and liver phosphatidylcholine (PC), DHA in liver triacylglycerol (TAG), and AA in plasma PC than HFS and LFS females. These findings show that the effect of varying dietary fat intake on (n-3) and (n-6) long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) status is modified by sex. Liver phospholipid and TAG fatty acid product:substrate ratios suggested greater Delta6 desaturase (Delta6D) activity in females than in males. The HFL diet induced higher Delta6D mRNA expression compared with the LFS or HFS diets and HFL females had 10% higher expression of Delta6D mRNA than HFL males. Together, these findings show that sex is an important determinant of the effect of variations in fat and fatty acid intake on LCPUFA status, which may have implications for recommendations for fat and fatty acid intake in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Childs
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Developmental Origins of Health and Disease Division, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
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40
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Agale S, Kulkarni A, Ranjekar P, Joshi S. Maternal caloric restriction spares fetal brain polyunsaturated fatty acids in Wistar rats. Brain Dev 2010; 32:123-9. [PMID: 19128907 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2008.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Revised: 11/19/2008] [Accepted: 12/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the role of developmental programming; however, the impact on fetal oxidative stress and brain fatty acid levels has been relatively unexplored. Recent reports have shown that caloric restriction regimens in adult animals reduce the occurrence of chronic diseases by reducing the oxidative stress and altering the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). The present study examined whether caloric restriction during pregnancy alters oxidative stress and essential fatty acid metabolism in mother and offspring at birth. Pregnant female rats were fed either a standard chow (C, n=7) or were calorie restricted (CR, n=7) by feeding 60% of the intake of the control. Oxidative stress marker (malondialdehyde) and polyunsaturated fatty acid profiles in brain and liver were analyzed in both dams and offspring. Total weight gain during pregnancy was lower (p<0.01) in the CR group as compared to the control group but did not affect the litter size and weight. Brain malondialdehyde levels were lower (p<0.05) in dams from the CR group. There was no change in brain and liver LCPUFA levels in both male and female offspring in the CR group. Most of the polyunsaturated fatty acids were reduced (p<0.05) in plasma and brain in the CR dams. Caloric restriction during pregnancy did not alter LCPUFA metabolism in the offspring suggesting that during maternal caloric restriction mothers own stores are mobilized to provide docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid for fetal brain development.
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Organ‐Specific Distributions of Lysophosphatidylcholine and Triacylglycerol in Mouse Embryo. Lipids 2009; 44:837-48. [DOI: 10.1007/s11745-009-3331-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2009] [Accepted: 07/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Alessandri JM, Extier A, Astorg P, Lavialle M, Simon N, Guesnet P. Métabolisme des acides gras oméga-3 : différences entre hommes et femmes. NUTR CLIN METAB 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nupar.2009.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Abstract
NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) refers to a wide spectrum of liver damage, ranging from simple steatosis to NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis), advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis. NAFLD is strongly associated with insulin resistance and is defined by accumulation of liver fat >5% per liver weight in the presence of <10 g of daily alcohol consumption. The exact prevalence of NAFLD is uncertain because of the absence of simple non-invasive diagnostic tests to facilitate an estimate of prevalence. In certain subgroups of patients, such as those with Type 2 diabetes, the prevalence of NAFLD, defined by ultrasound, may be as high as 70%. NASH is an important subgroup within the spectrum of NAFLD that progresses over time with worsening fibrosis and cirrhosis, and is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. It is, therefore, important to understand the pathogenesis of NASH and, in particular, to develop strategies for interventions to treat this condition. Currently, the 'gold standard' for the diagnosis of NASH is liver biopsy, and the need to undertake a biopsy has impeded research in subjects in this field. Limited results suggest that the prevalence of NASH could be as high as 11% in the general population, suggesting there is a worsening future public health problem in this field of medicine. With a burgeoning epidemic of diabetes in an aging population, it is likely that the prevalence of NASH will continue to increase over time as both factors are important risk factors for liver fibrosis. The purpose of this review is to: (i) briefly discuss the epidemiology of NAFLD to describe the magnitude of the future potential public health problem; and (ii) to discuss extra- and intra-hepatic mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of NAFLD, a better understanding of which may help in the development of novel treatments for this condition.
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Reza-López SA, Anderson GH, Szeto IMY, Taha AY, Ma DWL. High vitamin intake by Wistar rats during pregnancy alters tissue fatty acid concentration in the offspring fed an obesogenic diet. Metabolism 2009; 58:722-30. [PMID: 19375598 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2009.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Accepted: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Diet during pregnancy affects the long-term health of the offspring. Vitamins are known to modulate lipid metabolism, which may be reflected in tissue fatty acid (FA) concentrations. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of high vitamin intake during pregnancy on tissue FA concentration of the offspring. Wistar rats were fed an AIN-93G diet with either the recommended vitamin or 10-fold higher amounts (HV) during pregnancy. Afterward, offspring were weaned onto an obesogenic diet. Liver, quadriceps, adipose, and brain were collected over 48 weeks. Fatty acid concentration of tissue total lipids was analyzed by gas chromatography. At birth, the liver from HV offspring was higher in monounsaturated, stearic, and arachidonic acids. At weaning, the liver from HV offspring was higher in stearic and oleic acids; and in adipose tissue, n-6 and n-3 FAs were lower only in the male HV offspring (P < .05). At 12 weeks, HV offspring had higher concentrations of total fat, saturates, monounsaturates, and n-6 FA in muscle (P < .05), but not in other tissues. At 48 weeks, gestational diet did not affect tissue total lipid FA concentrations; but differences remained in specific tissue phospholipids species. Liver phospholipids from HV offspring were lower in monounsaturates and n-6 FA. Brain phosphatidylethanolamine was higher in oleic, n-6 FA, and docosahexaenoic acid in the HV offspring. Phosphatidylinositol was lower in saturates, monounsaturates, arachidonic, and docosahexaenoic acids only in HV female offspring. These observations demonstrate that high vitamin intake during pregnancy has short- and long-term effects on tissue FA concentration in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Reza-López
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3E2
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45
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Extier A, Perruchot MH, Baudry C, Guesnet P, Lavialle M, Alessandri JM. Differential effects of steroids on the synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids by human neuroblastoma cells. Neurochem Int 2009; 55:295-301. [PMID: 19576517 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2009.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2008] [Revised: 03/05/2009] [Accepted: 03/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are crucial for proper functioning of cell membranes, particularly in brain. Biologically important PUFA include docosahexaenoic acid (n-3 series) and arachidonic acid (n-6 series) which can be formed from their respective dietary essential precursors, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA). Steroid hormones are thought to modulate PUFA synthesis in humans but whether they regulate PUFA status in brain and/or in neural membranes is unknown. In human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, we compared the effect of estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone on PUFA synthesis. Cells were incubated with ALA and/or LA 7 microM in combination with estradiol, testosterone, or progesterone at 10 nM without serum. The fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography and the mRNA expression of genes involved in PUFA metabolism by real-time RT-PCR. Estradiol affected both the n-3 and the n-6 PUFA conversion, the n-3 PUFA pathway being more sensitive to the estradiol treatment. In ALA-supplemented cells, estradiol increased while testosterone decreased the long-chain n-3 PUFA content (+17% and -15%, respectively) and the mRNA expression of the Delta5-desaturase (+11% and -9%), these two events being strongly correlated. Progesterone did not affect the PUFA composition. The positive effect of estradiol was blocked by the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI-182,780. We conclude that steroids have differential effects on PUFA synthesis and that their mode of action could involve the modulation of the Delta5-desaturase mRNA expression in neuroblastoma cells. These results help our understanding of the regulation of brain PUFA metabolism by steroid hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Extier
- Unit of Lipid Nutrition & Regulation of Brain Functions, Nu.Re.Li.Ce, UR909, INRA, Domaine de Vilvert, F 78352-Jouy-en-Josas, France.
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Gender differences in the PUFA-fatty acid composition of membrane phospholipids in rats. Proc Nutr Soc 2008. [DOI: 10.1017/s002966510800030x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Maternal diet alters expression of specific PPARα transcripts in the hearts of their female offspring. Proc Nutr Soc 2008. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665108000293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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