Atheroprotective mechanisms of HDL

Berberine attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress and modulates lymphocyte E-NTPDase in acute hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is a common clinically encountered health condition worldwide that promotes the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. Berberine (BBR) is a natural product with acknowledged anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic effects. This study evaluated the effect of BBR on lipid alterations, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response in rats with acute hyperlipidemia induced by poloxamer-407 (P-407). Rats were pretreated with BBR (25 and 50 mg/kg) for 14 days and acute hyperlipidemia was induced by a single dose of P-407 (500 mg/kg). BBR ameliorated hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and plasma lipoproteins in P-407-adminsitered rats. Plasma lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity was decreased, and hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase activity was enhanced in hyperlipidemic rats. The expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) and ATP-binding cassette transporter 1 (ABCA1) was downregulated in hyperlipidemic rats. BBR enhanced LPL activity, upregulated LDL-R, and ABCA1, and suppressed HMG-CoA reductase in P-407-administered rats. Pretreatment with BBR ameliorated lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide (NO), pro-inflammatory mediators (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interferon-γ, IL-4 and IL-18) and enhanced antioxidants. In addition, BBR suppressed lymphocyte ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase) and ecto-adenosine deaminase (E-ADA) as well as NO and TNF-α release by macrophages isolated from normal and hyperlipidemic rats. In silico investigations revealed the binding affinity of BBR toward LPL, HMG-CoA reductase, LDL-R, PSK9, ABCA1, and E-NTPDase. In conclusion, BBR effectively prevented acute hyperlipidemia and its associated inflammatory responses by modulating LPL, cholesterolgenesis, cytokine release, and lymphocyte E-NTPDase and E-ADA. Therefore, BBR is an effective and safe natural compound that might be employed as an adjuvant against hyperlipidemia and its associated inflammation.

Syzygium cumini ameliorates high fat diet induced glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, weight gain, hepatic injury and nephrotoxicity through modulation of PTP1B and PPARγ signaling

Metabolic disorders are majorly associated with insulin resistance and an impaired glucose tolerance. Since, many of the currently available drugs exhibit adverse effects and are resistant to therapies, natural products are a promising alternate in the alleviation of complex metabolic disorders. In the current study, Syzygium cumini methanolic extract (SCE) was investigated for its anti-diabetic and anti-adipogenic potential using C57BL/6 mice fed on high fat diet (HFD). The HFD fed obese mice were treated with 200 mg/kg SCE and compared with positive controls Metformin, Pioglitazone and Sodium Orthovanadate. The biometabolites in SCE were characterized using Fourier transform infrared and gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy. A reduction in blood glucose levels with improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance was observed in SCE-treated HFD obese mice. Histopathological and biochemical investigations showed a reduction in hepatic injury and nephrotoxicity in SCE-administered HFD mice. Results showed inhibition of PTP1B and an upregulation of IRS1 and PKB-mediated signaling in skeletal muscle. A significant decrease in lipid markers such as TC, TG, LDL-c and VLDL-c levels were observed with increased HDL-c in SCE-treated HFD mice. A significant decrease in weight and adiposity was observed in SCE-administered HFD mice in comparison to controls. This decrease could be due to the partial agonism of PPARγ and an increased expression of adiponectin, an insulin sensitizer. Hence, the dual-modulatory effect of SCE, partly due to the presence of 26% Pyrogallol, could be useful in the management of diabetes and its associated maladies.

Synergistic Differential DNA Demethylation Activity of Danshensu (Salvia miltiorrhiza) Associated with Different Probiotics in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major hepatic disorder occurring in non-alcohol-drinking individuals. Salvianic acid A or Danshensu (DSS, 3-(3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl)-(2R)-lactic acid), derived from the root of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), has demonstrated heart and liver protective properties. In this work, we investigated the antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective activity of Danshensu alone and in combination with different agents, such as probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus), against several assays. The inhibition mechanism of the methylation gene biomarkers, such as DNMT-1, MS, STAT-3, and TET-1, against DSS was evaluated by molecular docking and RT-PCR techniques. The physicochemical and pharmacokinetic ADMET properties of DSS were determined by SwissADME and pkCSM. The results indicated that all lipid blood test profiles, including cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), were reduced after the oral administration of Danshensu combined with probiotics (L. casei and L. acidophilus) that demonstrated good, efficient free radical scavenging activity, measured using anti-oxidant assays. ADMET and drug-likeness properties certify that the DSS could be utilized as a feasible drug since DSS showed satisfactory physicochemical and pharmacokinetic ADMET properties.

High-Density Lipoprotein Particles and Torque Teno Virus in Stable Outpatient Kidney Transplant Recipients

Torque teno virus (TTV) is emerging as a potential marker for monitoring immune status. In transplant recipients who are immunosuppressed, higher TTV DNA loads are observed than in healthy individuals. TTV load measurement may aid in optimizing immunosuppressive medication dosing in solid organ transplant recipients. Additionally, there is a growing interest in the role of HDL particles in immune function; therefore, assessment of both HDL concentrations and TTV load may be of interest in transplant recipients. The objective of this study was to analyze TTV loads and HDL parameters in serum samples collected at least one year post-transplantation from 656 stable outpatient kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), enrolled in the TransplantLines Food and Nutrition Cohort (Groningen, the Netherlands). Plasma HDL particles and subfractions were measured using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Serum TTV load was measured using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Associations between HDL parameters and TTV load were examined using univariable and multivariable linear regression. The median age was 54.6 [IQR: 44.6 to 63.1] years, 43.3% were female, the mean eGFR was 52.5 (±20.6) mL/min/1.73 m2 and the median allograft vintage was 5.4 [IQR: 2.0 to 12.0] years. A total of 539 participants (82.2%) had a detectable TTV load with a mean TTV load of 3.04 (±1.53) log10 copies/mL, the mean total HDL particle concentration was 19.7 (±3.4) μmol/L, and the mean HDL size was 9.1 (±0.5) nm. The univariable linear regression revealed a negative association between total HDL particle concentration and TTV load (st.β = -0.17, 95% CI st.β: -0.26 to -0.09, p < 0.001). An effect modification of smoking behavior influencing the association between HDL particle concentration and TTV load was observed (Pinteraction = 0.024). After adjustment for age, sex, alcohol intake, hemoglobin, eGFR, donor age, allograft vintage and the use of calcineurin inhibitors, the negative association between HDL particle concentration and TTV load remained statistically significant in the non-smoking population (st.β = -0.14, 95% CI st.β: -0.23 to -0.04, p = 0.006). Furthermore, an association between small HDL particle concentration and TTV load was found (st.β = -0.12, 95% CI st.β: -0.22 to -0.02, p = 0.017). Higher HDL particle concentrations were associated with a lower TTV load in kidney transplant recipients, potentially indicative of a higher immune function. Interventional studies are needed to provide causal evidence on the effects of HDL on the immune system.

Association of Leukocyte, Erythrocyte, and Platelet Counts with Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in Young Individuals without Overt Signs of Inflammation: A Cross-Sectional Study

The presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. MetS is associated with increased leukocyte or erythrocyte counts. In 16- to 20-year-old males (n = 1188) and females (n = 1231) without signs of overt inflammation, we studied whether the presence of MetS and its components results in elevated blood cell counts. The leukocyte, erythrocyte, and thrombocyte counts significantly but weakly correlated with the continuous MetS score, MetS components, uric acid, and C-reactive protein levels both in males (r = -0.09 to 0.2; p < 0.01) and females (r = -0.08 to 0.2; p < 0.05). Subjects with MetS had higher leukocyte (males: 6.2 ± 1.3 vs. 6.9 ± 1.2 × 109/L; females 6.6 ± 1.5 vs. 7.5 ± 1.6 × 109/L; p < 0.001), erythrocyte (males: 5.1 ± 0.3 vs. 5.3 ± 0.3 × 1012/L; females: 4.5 ± 0.3 vs. 4.8 ± 0.3 × 1012/L; p < 0.001), and platelet counts (males: 245 ± 48 vs. 261 ± 47 × 109/L; females: 274 ± 56 vs. 288 ± 74 × 109/L; p < 0.05) than those without MetS. With the exception of platelet counts in females, the blood counts increased with the number of manifested MetS components. Phenotypes with the highest average leukocyte, erythrocyte, or platelet counts differed between sexes, and their prevalence was low (males: 0.3% to 3.9%; females: 1.2% to 2.7%). Whether functional changes in blood elements accompany MetS and whether the increase in blood counts within the reference ranges represents a risk for future manifestation of cardiometabolic diseases remain unanswered.

Engineering a New IFN-ApoA-I Fusion Protein with Low Toxicity and Prolonged Action

Recombinant human interferon alpha-2b (rIFN) is widely used in antiviral and anticancer immunotherapy. However, the high efficiency of interferon therapy is accompanied by a number of side effects; this problem requires the design of a new class of interferon molecules with reduced cytotoxicity. In this work, IFN was modified via genetic engineering methods by merging it with the blood plasma protein apolipoprotein A-I in order to reduce acute toxicity and improve the pharmacokinetics of IFN. The chimeric protein was obtained via biosynthesis in the yeast P. pastoris. The yield of ryIFN-ApoA-I protein when cultivated on a shaker in flasks was 30 mg/L; protein purification was carried out using reverse-phase chromatography to a purity of 95-97%. The chimeric protein demonstrated complete preservation of the biological activity of IFN in the model of vesicular stomatitis virus and SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the chimeric form had reduced cytotoxicity towards Vero cells and increased cell viability under viral load conditions compared with commercial IFN-a2b preparations. Analysis of the pharmacokinetic profile of ryIFN-ApoA-I after a single subcutaneous injection in mice showed a 1.8-fold increased half-life of the chimeric protein compared with ryIFN.

Dietary Fishmeal Can Be Partially Replaced with Non-Grain Compound Proteins through Evaluating the Growth, Biochemical Indexes, and Muscle Quality in Marine Teleost Trachinotus ovatus

In the context of human food shortages, the incorporation of non-grain feedstuff in fish feed deserves more research attention. Here, the feasibility and appropriate ratio of non-grain compound protein (NGCP, containing bovine bone meal, dephenolized cottonseed protein, and blood cell meal) for dietary fishmeal (FM) replacement were explored in golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus). Four isonitrogenous (45%) and isolipidic (12%) diets (Control, 25NGP, 50NGP, and 75NGP) were prepared. Control contained 24% FM, whereas the FM content of 25NGP, 50NGP, and 75NGP was 18%, 12%, and 6%, respectively, representing a 25%, 50%, and 75% replacement of FM in Control by NGCP. Juvenile golden pompano (initial weight: 9.71 ± 0.04 g) were fed the four diets for 65 days in sea cages. There was no significant difference between the 25NGP and Control groups in terms of weight gain, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate; contents of crude protein, crude lipid, moisture, and ash in muscle and whole fish; muscle textural properties including hardness, chewiness, gumminess, tenderness, springiness, and cohesiveness; and serum biochemical indexes including total protein, albumin, blood urea nitrogen, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. However, the golden pompano in 50NGP and 75NGP experienced nutritional stress, and thus some indicators were negatively affected. In addition, compared to the Control group, the expression levels of genes related to protein metabolism (mtor, s6k1, and 4e-bp1) and lipid metabolism (pparγ, fas, srebp1, and acc1) of the 25NGP group showed no significant difference, but the 4e-bp1 and pparγ of the 75NGP group were significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively (p < 0.05), which may explain the decline in fish growth performance and muscle quality after 75% FM was replaced by NGCP. The results suggest that at least 25% FM of Control can be replaced by NGCP, achieving a dietary FM content of as low as 18%; however, the replacement of more than 50% of the dietary FM negatively affects the growth and muscle quality of golden pompano.

Averrhoa carambola leaves prevent dyslipidemia and oxidative stress in a rat model of poloxamer-407-induced acute hyperlipidemia

Background: The star fruit [Averrhoa carambola L (Oxalidaceae)] is traditionally used in the treatment of many ailments in many countries. It possesses several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, it contains the neurotoxic caramboxin and its high content of oxalic acid limits its consumption by individuals with compromised kidney function. This study assessed the anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities of different fractions of the methanolic extract of A. carambola leaves (MEACL). Methods: The antioxidant activity was investigated using FRAP, and ABTS and DPPH radical-scavenging assays and the inhibitory activity toward pancreatic lipase (PL) and HMG-CoA reductase was assayed in vitro. Acute hyperlipidemia was induced by poloxamer-407 (P-407) in rats and different fractions of MEACL (n-hexane, chloroform, n-butanol, ethyl acetate (EA), water, and chloroform) were orally administered. Cholesterol and triglycerides were determined at 0, 12, 24, and 48 h and LDL-C, vLDL-C, HDL-C, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and antioxidants were assayed after 48 h. The expression of ABCA1, ABCG5, ABCG8, LDL-R, SREBP-1, and SREBP-2 and the activity of HMG-CoA reductase were assayed in the liver of P-407-administered rats treated with the EA fraction. Results: The in vitro data revealed potent radical-scavenging activities of MEACL fractions with the most potent effect showed by the EA fraction that also suppressed the activities of HMG-CoA reductase and PL. In P-407-induced hyperlipidemic rats, all fractions prevented dyslipidemia as shown by the decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, vLDL-C and atherogenic index. MEACL and its fractions prevented LPO and boosted GSH, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in P-407-administered rats. The EA fraction showed more effective anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects than other fractions and downregulated SREBP-2 while upregulated ABCA1 and LDL-R and ameliorated LPL and HMG-CoA reductase in hyperlipidemic rats. Conclusion: MEACL showed in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity and the EA fraction significantly ameliorated dyslipidemia in a rat model of P-407-induced acute hyperlipidemia by modulating LPL, PL, HMG-CoA reductase, and cholesterolgenesis-related factors. Therefore, the leaves of A. carambola represent a safe alternative for the star fruit particularly in kidney disease patients, and the EA is the most effective anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant fraction.

Ethanol Extracts of Eriobotrya japonica (Loquat) Seeds, Leaves, and Fruits Have Anti-obesity and Hypolipidemic Effects in Rats

Background:

Obesity is a serious public health problem contributing to development of several diseases, including hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. The plant Eriobotrya japonica (loquat) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat many ailments and traditional healers used it to reduce weight.

Objective:

To examine the potential anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects of ethanol extract of loquat in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Loquat leaves, fruits, or seeds were extracted with ethanol. About 96 Wistar male rats were fed either a normal rat diet (normal control group; group 1) or a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks (obese; groups 2−12). Obese rats were divided into11 groups as follows: (obese control: group 2) (obese positive control which received the hypolipidemic reference drug atorvastatin: group 3). Groups (4−6), (7−9), and (10−12) were given seed, leaf, or fruit extract, respectively, at 40,100, and 400 mg/kg. Body weight, serum glucose, lipid profile, creatinine, liver enzymes, albumin, and total protein were measured weekly.

Results:

HFD consumption significantly increased body weight and serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and glucose and decreased HDL compared to rats fed the normal diet. HFD also increased serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and creatinine but decreased serum albumin and total protein. Administration of E. japonica seed, leaf, or fruit extract significantly decreased body weight, TC, TGs, LDL, VLDL, glucose, liver, and renal enzymes but increased HDL, albumin, and total protein levels.

Conclusion:

E. japonica seed, leaf, and fruit ethanol extract regulates body weight gain, has hypolipidemic properties, and positively affects liver and kidney enzymes.

Insight into the hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic impacts of aliskiren in streptozotocin-induced diabetic liver disease in mice

BACKGROUND

Diabetic hepatopathy is a serious complication of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. An efficient antidiabetic drug which keeps normal liver tissues is not available. The renin-angiotensin system has been reported to be involved in both diabetic state and liver function. Aliskiren is a direct renin inhibitor and a recently antihypertensive drug with poly-pharmacological properties. The aim of the current study is to explore the possible hepatoprotective effects and mechanisms of action of aliskiren against streptozotocin (STZ) induced liver toxicity.

METHODS

Mice were distributed to 3 groups; first: the normal control group, second: the diabetic control group, third: the diabetic group which received aliskiren (25 mg/kg; oral) for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment period, plasma glucose, insulin, lipid profile, oxidative stress, and liver function tests were evaluated spectrophotometrically. ELISA technique was used to measure the expression levels of TNF-α and adiponectin. Furthermore, a Histopathological examination of liver samples was done.

RESULTS

It was shown that aliskiren treatment ameliorated the STZ-induced oxidative stress and elevated inflammatory biomarkers, hypercholesterolemia, serum aminotransferases and alkaline phosphatase levels in diabetic mice. In addition, hepatocellular necrosis, and fibrosis were improved by aliskiren treatment.

CONCLUSION

aliskiren protects against the liver damage caused by STZ-induced diabetes. This can be explained by its ability to block angiotensin-II, and its anti-diabetic, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Aliskiren could be a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent liver diseases associated with hypertension and diabetes mellitus.

Polyphenol Extracts From Germinated Mung Beans Can Improve Type 2 Diabetes in Mice by Regulating Intestinal Microflora and Inhibiting Inflammation

Studies have shown that inhibiting inflammation and regulating intestinal microflora imbalance is a significant factor in controlling the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This experiment studied the protective effect of polyphenol extract from germinated mung beans on diabetic C57BL/6 mice.

Results

Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was decreased, glucose tolerance was increased, insulin resistance was decreased, serum lipid indexes in T2DM mice were improved, and the enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) in serum were reduced. Meanwhile, the levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in serum were decreased, the concentration of interleukin 10 (IL-10) in serum was increased, inhibiting the inflammatory reaction induced by diabetes and repairing the morphology of mice liver tissue. At the same time, germinated mung bean polyphenol (GMP) can regulate the main intestinal flora, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria in diabetic mice and can also regulate species diversity and improve intestinal flora imbalance. Taken together, the experimental conclusion is a certain dose of polyphenol extract from germinated mung beans that can improve mouse T2DM by inhibiting inflammatory reaction and regulating intestinal microflora.

Nutritional Benefits from Fatty Acids in Organic and Grass-Fed Beef

Livestock production is under increasing scrutiny as a component of the food supply chain with a large impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Amidst growing calls to reduce industrial ruminant production, there is room to consider differences in meat quality and nutritional benefits of organic and/or pasture-based management systems. Access to forage, whether fresh or conserved, is a key influencing factor for meat fatty acid profile, and there is increasing evidence that pasture access is particularly beneficial for meat’s nutritional quality. These composition differences ultimately impact nutrient supply to consumers of conventional, organic and grass-fed meat. For this review, predicted fatty acid supply from three consumption scenarios were modelled: i. average UK population National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) (<128 g/week) red meat consumption, ii. red meat consumption suggested by the UK National Health Service (NHS) (<490 g/week) and iii. red meat consumption suggested by the Eat Lancet Report (<98 g/week). The results indicate average consumers would receive more of the beneficial fatty acids for human health (especially the essential omega-3, alpha-linolenic acid) from pasture-fed beef, produced either organically or conventionally.

Lauric Acid, a Dietary Saturated Medium-Chain Fatty Acid, Elicits Calcium-Dependent Eryptosis

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and dietary habits represent a major risk factor for dyslipidemia; a hallmark of CVD. Saturated fatty acids contribute to CVD by aggravating dyslipidemia, and, in particular, lauric acid (LA) raises circulating cholesterol levels. The role of red blood cells (RBCs) in CVD is increasingly being appreciated, and eryptosis has recently been identified as a novel mechanism in CVD. However, the effect of LA on RBC physiology has not been thoroughly investigated. RBCs were isolated from heparin-anticoagulated whole blood (WB) and exposed to 50-250 μM of LA for 24 h at 37 °C. Hemoglobin was photometrically examined as an indicator of hemolysis, whereas eryptosis was assessed by Annexin V-FITC for phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, Fluo4/AM for Ca²⁺, light scatter for cellular morphology, H₂DCFDA for oxidative stress, and BODIPY 581/591 C11 for lipid peroxidation. WB was also examined for RBC, leukocyte, and platelet viability and indices. LA caused dose-responsive hemolysis, and Ca²⁺-dependent PS exposure, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), cytosolic Ca²⁺ overload, cell shrinkage and granularity, oxidative stress, accumulation of lipid peroxides, and stimulation of casein kinase 1α (CK1α). In WB, LA disrupted leukocyte distribution with elevated neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) due to selective toxicity to lymphocytes. In conclusion, this report provides the first evidence of the pro-eryptotic potential of LA and associated mechanisms, which informs dietary interventions aimed at CVD prevention and management.

S1P in the development of atherosclerosis: roles of hemodynamic wall shear stress and endothelial permeability

Atherosclerosis is characterized by focal accumulations of lipid within the arterial wall, thought to arise from effects of hemodynamic wall shear stress (WSS) on endothelial permeability. Identifying pathways that mediate the effects of shear on permeability could therefore provide new therapeutic opportunities. Here, we consider whether the sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) pathway could constitute such a route. We review effects of S1P in endothelial barrier function, the influence of WSS on S1P production and signaling, the results of trials investigating S1P in experimental atherosclerosis in mice, and associations between S1P levels and cardiovascular disease in humans. Although it seems clear that S1P reduces endothelial permeability and responds to WSS, the evidence that it influences atherosclerosis is equivocal. The effects of specifically pro- and anti-atherosclerotic WSS profiles on the S1P pathway require investigation, as do influences of S1P on the vesicular pathways likely to dominate low-density lipoprotein transport across endothelium.

Protective effects of sulfated polysaccharides from Lentinula edodes on the lung and liver of MODS mice

In this work, the effects of sulfated polysaccharides from Lentinula edodes (SPLE) on zymosan (ZYM)-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) mice were investigated. Using the MODS mice model, biochemical works have already shown that in mice treated with SPLE, the lung parameters of GGT, C3 and hs-CRP were down-regulated and the hepatic parameters of TC, TG, ALT and AST, HDLC, LDL-C and VLDL-C were improved, the serum levels of CK, Cr and Amy were decreased, and the levels of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 were also reduced, the activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT enhanced, and the content of MDA was reduced. In addition, histopathology of the lung and liver confirmed the beneficial effects of SPLE on MODS mice, indicating that SPLE played a role in protecting the organ function of MODS mice. In addition, SPLE was characterized as a sulfated β-glucan linked by β-type glycosidic bonds. These conclusions indicated that SPLE had effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and could be used as a functional food and medicine to prevent MODS.

Advances in our understanding of the structure and functionality of edible fats and fat mimetics

The reasons for the increased world-wide incidence of obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease include sedentary lifestyles and poor food choices. Regulatory agencies in several countries now require companies to add unattractive front of package labels to their products where salt, sugar and fat (or saturated fat) levels are prominently displayed. After the demise of partially hydrogenated fats, saturated fat has become the new target. Consumption of saturated fat over polyunsaturated oil has been clearly shown to increase cholesterol levels in humans. However, saturated fats provide the functionality required in many food products. To complicate matters, concerns over sustainability, veganism, genetically modified organisms, animal welfare, as well as religious beliefs, severely limit our sources of saturated fat. In this review we will discuss recent advances in our understanding of the nano and mesoscale structure of fats, responsible for their physical functionality and contrast it to that of fat mimetics. Fat mimetics include polymeric networks of ethylcellulose, emulsion-templated networks of proteins and polysaccharides, colloidal and self-assembled fibrillar networks of polar lipid crystals, as well as solid o/w emulsions of oil trapped within crystallized lamellar mesophases. Clean label and economic considerations will also be touched upon.

The Potential Role of Citrus limon Powder as a Natural Feed Supplement to Boost the Productive Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Blood Biochemistry of Growing Rabbits

The current study examined the influence of Citrus limon (dry lemon) on the hemato-biochemical profiles, and antioxidant indices of growing rabbits. Forty-eight growing New Zealand White rabbits (age, eight weeks; weight, 1543.33 ± 25 g) were allocated into three groups (16 animals each), the first group was (control) fed a basal diet, whereas the second and third groups were supplemented with dried lemon, 1% or 2% DLP, respectively. A GC-MS analysis of more than 27 active constituents was performed. Feed conversion efficiency was (p < 0.05) better with diets containing 1% or 2% dry lemon, compared to the control group. Hematological indexes were increased significantly with the addition of DLP compared to those in the control group. Adding 1% or 2% dry lemon to rabbit diet increased (p < 0.05) enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (TAC, SOD, GSH, GST, and CAT) in serum and liver tissues. Taken together, these data reveal the advantages and antioxidant effects of dry lemon supplementation for growing rabbits once supplemented at a maximum of 2% in their daily diet.

Effects of Regular Aerobic Exercise and Resistance Training on High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels in Taiwanese Adults

Increased levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) can improve endothelial function. This may help reduce cardiovascular risks and mortality. Evidence has been provided on the association between cardiometabolic traits, such as HDL-C and exercise modalities. However, there is the absence of studies investigating this association in Taiwan. We assessed the relationship between exercise type and HDL-C among Taiwanese adults. Data were collected from Taiwan Biobank (TWB), a national biomedical research database that contains the genetic information of ethnic Taiwanese residents gathered from 2008 to 2016. We enrolled 24,856 participants aged 30 to 70 years who completed a questionnaire about their recent health behaviors including smoking, drinking, and exercise. Regular exercise was categorized as non-aerobic exercise (separated as weight training, ball game, and mixed exercise) and strict aerobic exercise. Linear regression models were used to assess the effects of exercise in a questionnaire-based manner. After multivariate adjustments, HDL-C was positively associated with aerobic (β = 1.33748, p < 0.0001) and non-aerobic (β = 2.56210; p < 0.0001) exercise. Positive associations were also found for resistance training (β = 4.01828, p = 0.0020), ballgame (β = 2.43815, p = 0.0001), and mixed exercise (β = 2.47021, p < 0.0001). This study demonstrated that both aerobic and non-aerobic exercise have positive effects on HDL-C among Taiwanese adults. Among the non-aerobic exercise groups, resistance training had the greatest effect.

Non-fasting High-Density Lipoprotein Is Associated With White Matter Microstructure in Healthy Older Adults

A growing body of evidence indicates that biomarkers of cardiovascular risk may be related to cerebral health. However, little is known about the role that non-fasting lipoproteins play in assessing age-related declines in a cerebral biomarker sensitive to vascular compromise, white matter (WM) microstructure. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is atheroprotective and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a major atherogenic lipoprotein. This study explored the relationships between non-fasting levels of cholesterol and WM microstructure in healthy older adults. A voxelwise and region of interest approach was used to determine the relationship between cholesterol and fractional anisotropy (FA). Participants included 87 older adults between the ages of 59 and 77 (mean age = 65.5 years, SD = 3.9). Results indicated that higher HDL-C was associated with higher FA in diffuse regions of the brain when controlling for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). HDL-C was also positively associated with FA in the corpus callosum and fornix. No relationship was observed between LDL-C and FA. Findings suggest that a modifiable lifestyle variable associated with cardiovascular health may help to preserve cerebral WM.

Modulation of gut microbiota by mulberry fruit polysaccharide treatment of obese diabetic db/db mice

Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiota is an important factor in mediating the development of metabolic disorders, especially type 2 diabetes. Herein, we investigated the protective effects of polysaccharides from mulberry fruit on diabetic db/db mice. We observed an inhibition in the body weight increase, a decrease in the blood glucose levels, and an improvement in glucose tolerance. Furthermore, our data showed increased enzymatic activities as evidenced by parameters such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT). In addition, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) increased, while total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), lipid peroxide content malonaldehyde (MDA), and free fatty acid (FFA) levels decreased, accompanied by the recovery from damage to the liver, kidneys and pancreas. Meanwhile, metformin and polysaccharide similarly shifted the abundance of the main gut microbiota, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, in diabetic mice toward levels observed in healthy mice. Especially at the genus level, the enrichment of some key bacteria like Bacteroidales, Lactobacillus, Allobaculum, Bacteroides, and Akkermansia was observed. Taken together, our findings suggest that polysaccharides from the mulberry fruit modulate gut microbiota, including enriching functional bacteria and reducing microbial diversity, which may contribute to their antidiabetic effects.

Characterization and Attenuation of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Organ Damage by Polysaccharides from Spent Mushroom Substrate (Pleurotus eryngii)

The aim of this work was to characterize spent mushroom substrate polysaccharides (MSP) from Pleurotus eryngii and their antioxidant and organ protective effects in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic mice. The enzymatic-, acidic-, and alkalic- (En-, Ac-, and Al-) MSP were extracted from P. eryngii with snailase (4%), hydrochloric acid (1 mol/l), and sodium hydroxide (1 mol/l), respectively. The characterizations were evaluated by spectral analysis. In animal experiments, the enzymatic activities, lipid peroxide contents, and serum lipid parameters were measured, and histological observations of the liver, kidney, pancreas, and heart were conducted. The results demonstrated that treatment with En-, Ac-, and Al-MSP increased the organ enzymatic activities, decreased the organ lipid peroxide contents, mitigated the serum biochemistry values, and ameliorated the histopathology of diabetic mice, indicating that En-, Ac-, and Al-MSP could potentially be used as functional foods for the prevention of diabetes.

Does statin therapy impact the proximal aortopathy in aortic valve disease?

BACKGROUND

Studies have demonstrated that statin therapy decreases the growth rate of abdominal aneurysms. However, the effect of statin therapy on the proximal aortic disease has not been sufficiently elucidated.

AIM

We aimed to analyse the association between statin treatment and the severity of proximal aortopathy in patients with aortic valve disease.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

We prospectively identified 458 patients who were referred for aortic valve surgery from 2008 to 2014. Pre-operative measurement of the proximal aorta was performed by TEE, CT or MRT scan. Data of dyslipidemia treatment was obtained by questionnaire.

RESULTS

The mean ascending aortic diameter in the whole study population was comparable in patients with vs. without statin therapy (i.e. 42.7 mm vs. 43.6 mm, P = 0.46). Logistic regression analysis showed no significant association between statin therapy and proximal aortopathy ≥ 40 mm in the whole study group (OR = 0.69, P = 0.10). For the BAV sub-group, HDL (OR = 0.54, P = 0.038) and cholesterol levels (OR = 2.00, P = 0.038) were found significantly associated with the proximal aortic disease. In the BAV cohort, the statin users with target HDL levels presented a significantly smaller proximal aortic diameter (40.1 mm vs. 46 mm, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative statin therapy demonstrated no significant association with the expression of proximal aortopathy. However, more than 40% of the statin users presented uncontrolled lipid levels at the time of the study. In the BAV sub-group, the statins users with target HDL levels showed a significantly smaller ascending aorta diameter. Target HDL and cholesterol levels were strongly associated with proximal aortic dilation in BAV patients.

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol as a therapeutic target for residual risk in patients with acute coronary syndrome

Objective

The current guideline recommends lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) for the primary management of dyslipidemia in patients at high-risk of cardiovascular events. Patients who have achieved LDL-C levels below the recommended targets may still experience cardiovascular events, suggesting additional therapeutic targets beyond LDL-C. The aim of this study was to investigate whether high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels had an impact on plaque stabilization in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

This study consisted of 90 ACS patients with untreated dyslipidemia. In optical coherence tomography (OCT) analysis, a plaque with fibrous cap thickness ≦160 μm was defined as a high-risk plaque. We registered one high-risk plaque per one patient by baseline OCT imaging, and then administrated high-intensity statin. Based on the follow-up OCT results, patients whose registered plaque was no longer high-risk plaque were classified into a responder group and the remains into a non-responder group.

Results

No differences were observed in the baseline LDL-C and HDL-C levels between the two groups. Reduction of LDL-C levels (δ LDL-C: −53 ± 21 mg/dL vs. −42 ± 29 mg/dL, p = 0.036) and increase of HDL-C levels (δ HDL-C: 2.5 ± 5.9 mg/dL vs. −0.3 ± 6.7 mg/dL, p = 0.039) were greater in the responder group. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, δ LDL-C levels (OR: 0.956, 95% CI: 0.921–0.993; p = 0.020) and δ HDL-C levels (OR: 1.143; 95% CI: 1.005–1.300, p = 0.041) were independent contributors for plaque stabilization.

Conclusions

Increase of HDL-C levels is associated with plaque stabilization in patients with ACS. HDL-C could be a therapeutic target for residual risk management.

High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) Levels Independently Correlates With Cardiac Arrhythmias and Atrial Fibrillation

Objective:

Acute coronary syndrome is frequently complicated by rhythm disturbances, yet any association between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and arrhythmias in the setting of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (non-STEMI) is uncertain. The goal of this study was to evaluate any association between HDL-cholesterol levels and arrhythmias in the setting of non-STEMI.

Methods:

Retrospective data from Phoenix Veterans Affair Medical Center records were utilized for our study. A total of 6881 patients were found who presented during 2000 to 2003 with non-STEMI with available fasting lipid panels collected within the first 24 hours of admission. Patients were followed for the development of rhythm disturbances up to 6 years after initial presentation, with a mean follow up of 1269 days.

Results:

We found that high triglycerides/HDL and low-density lipid/HDL ratios were predictive of arrhythmias. However, low HDL levels had strongest association with highest odds ratio (OR) for development of arrhythmias (for HDL <31 mg/dL, OR = 3.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.55-5.44, P < .05) in patients with diabetes and (for HDL < 31 mg/dL, OR = 3.69, 95% CI = 2.85-4.71, P < .05) in patients without diabetes. Using multivariate analysis adjusting for comorbidities, low HDL level remained independently associated with arrhythmias.

Conclusions:

Patients with low HDL levels during hospitalization with non-STEMI have a greater risk of developing cardiac rhythm disturbances independent of other risk factors. These data suggest a possible protective role of HDL in preventing arrhythmias in the setting of acute coronary syndrome.

Suppressive effects of berberine on atherosclerosis via downregulating visfatin expression and attenuating visfatin-induced endothelial dysfunction

Berberine (BBR) possesses significant anti-atherosclerosis properties. Visfatin is one of the most promising biomarkers of incoming atherosclerosis. However, research on the effect of BBR on regulating visfatin expression in atherogenesis remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of BBR on visfatin expression and atherogenesis in apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE-/-) mice. The effect of BBR on attenuating visfatin-induced endothelial dysfunction was also evaluated in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). In vivo experiments showed that BBR treatment (5 mg/kg/day) significantly reduced the serum levels of visfatin, lipid, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), the protein expression of visfatin, p-p38 MAPK and p-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in mice aorta and the distribution of visfatin in the atherosclerotic lesions in ApoE-/- mice fed with a Western diet. In addition, in vitro experiments indicated that visfatin (100 µg/l) significantly increased apoptosis, the contents of IL-6 and TNF-α, the protein levels of p-p38 MAPK, p-JNK and Bax in HUVECs, which were reversed by BBR administration (50 µmol/l). Our findings suggest that BBR significantly ameliorates Western diet-induced atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice via downregulating visfatin expression, which is related to the inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways and subsequent suppression of visfatin-induced endothelial dysfunction.

Association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and pulmonary function in healthy Korean adolescents: the JS high school study

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is associated with pulmonary function and pulmonary disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between HDL cholesterol and pulmonary function in healthy adolescents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was based on data collected for the JS High School study. The analysis included 644 adolescents (318 male and 326 female) aged 15–16 years old and free from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Fasting blood samples were collected for hematologic and biochemical assessment. Forced vital capacity volume (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the 1 s (FEV1) were measured using dry-rolling-seal spirometry. The associations between HDL cholesterol and pulmonary function were analyzed using multiple linear regression models.

Results

Among male adolescents, an increase of 1.0 mg/dL in HDL cholesterol was associated with 10 mL decrease in FVC (p = 0.013) and FEV1 (p = 0.013) after adjusting for age, height, weight, alcohol drinking, smoking, physical activity, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and monthly household income. Percent predicted values of FVC (p = 0.036) and FEV1 (p = 0.017) were also inversely associated with HDL cholesterol. However, among female adolescents, HDL cholesterol level was not significantly associated with absolute or percent predictive value of FVC and FEV1.

Conclusions

Higher HDL cholesterol level may be associated with decreased pulmonary function among healthy male adolescents. The sex differences observed in the association between HDL cholesterol and pulmonary function need further investigation.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12890-017-0548-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effect of curcumin on inhibiting atherogenesis by down-regulating lipocalin-2 expression in apolipoprotein E knockout mice

BACKGROUND

Curcumin possesses significant anti-atherosclerosis properties. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is already known as one of the most promising biomarkers of atherosclerosis. However, research on the effect of curcumin on regulating LCN2 expression in atherogenesis is very limited. The aim of the study was to investigate whether curcumin could alleviate atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice by down-regulating LCN2 expression.

METHODS

Fifty apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE-/-) mice were fed with a western diet for 12 weeks and randomly divided into five groups: model group (Mod), positive control group (Lov, with 30 mg/kg/d lovastatin), three curcumin groups (CurL, CurM and CurH, with 40, 60 and 80 mg/kg/d curcumin), while 10 C57BL/6J mice were fed with a standard mouse chow diet as a control group (Con). LCN2 in serum and aorta, biomarkers of serum lipid and inflammation were determined and the plaque area of the atherosclerosis lesions was quantified.

RESULTS

CurM and CurH group were significantly lower than Mod group in terms of serum LCN2, lipid and inflammatory cytokine levels, plaque area and LCN2 expression in atherosclerotic lesions, similar to lovastatin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that dietary curcumin ameliorates western diet-induced atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice, which is related to LCN2 down-regulation, anti-hyperlipidemia effect as well as the inhibition of inflammation.

Protective effects on liver, kidney and pancreas of enzymatic- and acidic-hydrolysis of polysaccharides by spent mushroom compost (Hypsizigus marmoreus)

The present work investigated the protective effects on liver, kidneys and pancreas of spent mushroom compost polysaccharide (SCP) and its hydrolysates (enzymatic- (ESCP) and acid-hydrolyzed SCP (ASCP)) from Hypsizigus marmoreus, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The results showed that enzymatic (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT)) and non-enzymatic activities (total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC)) were significantly increased, the lipid peroxide contents (lipid peroxide (LPO) and malonaldehyde (MDA)) were remarkably reduced, and the clinical parameters were observably mitigated in diabetic mice treated with these three polysaccharides. Furthermore, histological observations also indicated recovery. These conclusions demonstrated that both SCP and its hydrolysates ESCP and ASCP possessed potent antioxidant activities and can be used as a potentially functional food for the prevention of diabetes and its complications induced by STZ.

In vitro and In vivo Antioxidant, Anti-hyperlipidemic Properties and Chemical Characterization of Centella asiatica (L.) Extract

The study aimed to identify the phenolic compounds present in Centella asiatica (L.) (C. asiatica) extract and evaluate the respective antioxidant potential as well as its cholesterol-lowering effects in the experimental animal model. Herein, the antioxidant potential of extracts was assessed by its free radical scavenging activity such as 2, 2-diphenyl -1- picrylhydrazyl as well as reducing capability. The anti-hyperlipidemic effects of C. asiatica extract (CAE) were evaluated in high cholesterol-fed (HCF) rats for 4 weeks, where different concentrations of extracts (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg/day) were orally administrated daily. Lipid and antioxidant profiles, including total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), together with the indices of hepatic functions were also examined. C. asiatica revealed excellent free radical scavenging activity as revealed by 2-2- diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, with the IC50 values (9.62 ± 0.88 μg/mL). Furthermore, C. asiatica extracts and fenofibrate remarkably lowered the level of TC, TG, LDL-C, and showed elevated levels of HDL-C, SOD. The histopathological observations further demonstrated clear differentiation and structural changes in liver of HCF and CAE treated group. Furthermore, gulonic acid, ferulic acid, kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, and asiatic acid were identified to be the major components which might be responsible for the antioxidant activity of the C. asiatica extract as evidenced from an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer. Taken together, these results signifies the excellent antioxidant and anti-hyperlipidemic properties of C. asiatica leaf extracts, which might be useful for the treatment of oxidative-stress related diseases such as hyperlipidemia.

Surface Plasmon Resonance Assay of Binding Properties of Antisense Oligonucleotides to Serum Albumins and Lipoproteins

In the present study, we developed an assay to evaluate the kinetic binding properties of the unconjugated antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) and lipophilic and hydrophilic ligands conjugated ASOs to mouse and human serum albumin, and lipoproteins using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The lipophilic ligands conjugated ASOs showed clear affinity to the albumins and lipoproteins, while the unconjugated and hydrophilic ligand conjugated ASOs showed no interaction. The SPR method showed reproducible immobilization of albumins and lipoproteins as ligands on the sensor chip, and reproducible affinity kinetic parameters of interaction of ASOs conjugated with the ligands could be obtained. The kinetic binding data of these ASOs to albumin and lipoproteins by SPR were related with the distributions in the whole liver in mice after administration of these conjugated ASOs. The results demonstrated that our SPR method could be a valuable tool for predicting the mechanism of the properties of delivery of conjugated ASOs to the organs.

Cholesterol-lowering effects and potential mechanisms of different polar extracts from Cyclocarya paliurus leave in hyperlipidemic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cyclocarya paliurus Batal., native only to China, is widely consumed as a Chinese traditional folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of hyperlipidemia, obesity, and diabetes. The aim of the study is to investigate the cholesterol-lowering effect and potential mechanisms of different polar extracts from Cyclocarya paliurus leaves in mice fed with high-fat-diet.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cyclocarya paliurus leaves extracts were orally administered to diet-induced hyperlipidemic mice for 4 weeks. Simvastatin was used as a positive control. Body weight, food intake, histopathology of liver and adipose tissues, hepatic and renal function indices, lipid profiles in the serum and liver were evaluated. Total bile acid concentrations of the liver and feces were also measured. Furthermore, the activities and mRNA expression of cholesterol metabolism-related enzymes including 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and acyl-CoA cholesterol acyltransferase 2 (ACAT2) in the livers of the mice were analyzed. LC-MS detection was performed to identify the components in the active fraction of Cyclocarya paliurus extracts.

RESULTS

Different Cyclocarya paliurus polar extracts, especially ChE reduced the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and hepatic TC and TG, enhanced the level of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), restored hepatic and renal function indices and histomorphology. HMG-CoA reductase activity and mRNA expression were decreased, while CYP7A1 activity and mRNA expression as well as the level of fecal and hepatic bile acid were increased by ChE. LC-MS analysis of ChE revealed the presence of six main triterpenoids, which might be responsible for its antihyperlipidemic bioactivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidently ChE possesses the best antihyperlipidemic activity, and the cholesterol-lowering effect is at least partly attributed to its role in promoting the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids by upgrading the activity and mRNA expression of CYP7A1 and inhibiting those of HMG-CoA reductase to lower the cholesterol biosynthesis.

The Evidence for Saturated Fat and for Sugar Related to Coronary Heart Disease

Dietary guidelines continue to recommend restricting intake of saturated fats. This recommendation follows largely from the observation that saturated fats can raise levels of total serum cholesterol (TC), thereby putatively increasing the risk of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease (CHD). However, TC is only modestly associated with CHD, and more important than the total level of cholesterol in the blood may be the number and size of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles that contain it. As for saturated fats, these fats are a diverse class of compounds; different fats may have different effects on LDL and on broader CHD risk based on the specific saturated fatty acids (SFAs) they contain. Importantly, though, people eat foods, not isolated fatty acids. Some food sources of SFAs may pose no risk for CHD or possibly even be protective. Advice to reduce saturated fat in the diet without regard to nuances about LDL, SFAs, or dietary sources could actually increase people's risk of CHD. When saturated fats are replaced with refined carbohydrates, and specifically with added sugars (like sucrose or high fructose corn syrup), the end result is not favorable for heart health. Such replacement leads to changes in LDL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides that may increase the risk of CHD. Additionally, diets high in sugar may induce many other abnormalities associated with elevated CHD risk, including elevated levels of glucose, insulin, and uric acid, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin and leptin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and altered platelet function. A diet high in added sugars has been found to cause a 3-fold increased risk of death due to cardiovascular disease, but sugars, like saturated fats, are a diverse class of compounds. The monosaccharide, fructose, and fructose-containing sweeteners (e.g., sucrose) produce greater degrees of metabolic abnormalities than does glucose (either isolated as a monomer, or in chains as starch) and may present greater risk of CHD. This paper reviews the evidence linking saturated fats and sugars to CHD, and concludes that the latter is more of a problem than the former. Dietary guidelines should shift focus away from reducing saturated fat, and from replacing saturated fat with carbohydrates, specifically when these carbohydrates are refined. To reduce the burden of CHD, guidelines should focus particularly on reducing intake of concentrated sugars, specifically the fructose-containing sugars like sucrose and high-fructose corn syrup in the form of ultra-processed foods and beverages.

Retinoic acid induces macrophage cholesterol efflux and inhibits atherosclerotic plaque formation in apoE-deficient mice

It has been suggested that retinoic acid (RA) has a potential role in the prevention of atherosclerotic CVD. In the present study, we used J774A.1 cell lines and primary peritoneal macrophages to investigate the protective effects of RA on foam cell formation and atherogenesis in apoE-deficient (apoE- / -) mice. A total of twenty male apoE- / - mice (n 10 animals per group), aged 8 weeks, were fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) and treated with vehicle or 9-cis-RA for 8 weeks. The atherosclerotic plaque area in the aortic sinus of mice in the 9-cis-RA group was 40·7 % less than that of mice in the control group (P< 0·01). Mouse peritoneal macrophages from the 9-cis-RA group had higher protein expression levels of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) and G1 (ABCG1) than those from the control group. Serum total and LDL-cholesterol concentrations were lower in the 9-cis-RA group than in the control group (P< 0·05). In vitro studies showed that incubation of cholesterol-loaded J774A.1 macrophages with 9-cis-RA (0·1, 1 and 10 μmol/l) induced cholesterol efflux in a dose-dependent manner. The 9-cis-RA treatment markedly attenuated lipid accumulation in macrophages exposed to oxidised LDL. Moreover, treatment with 9-cis-RA significantly increased the protein expression levels of ABCA1 and ABCG1 in J774A.1 macrophages in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, 9-cis-RA dose-dependently enhanced the protein expression level of liver X receptor-α (LXRα), the upstream regulator of ABCA1 and ABCG1. Taken together, the present results show that 9-cis-RA suppresses foam cell formation and prevents HFD-induced atherogenesis via the LXRα-dependent up-regulation of ABCA1 and ABCG1.

Structural and ultrastructural evaluation of the aortic wall after transplantation of bone marrow-derived cells (BMCs) in a model for atherosclerosis

Stem cells are characterized by their ability to differentiate into multiple cell lineages and display the paracrine effect. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of therapy with bone marrow-derived cells (BMCs) on glucose, lipid metabolism, and aortic wall remodeling in mice through the administration of a high-fat diet and subsequent BMCs transplantation. C57BL/6 mice were fed a control diet (CO group) or an atherogenic diet (AT group). After 16 weeks, the AT group was divided into 4 subgroups: an AT 14 days group and AT 21 days group that were given an injection of vehicle and sacrificed after 14 and 21 days, respectively, and an AT-BMC 14 days group and AT-BMC 21 days group that were given an injection of BMCs and sacrificed after 14 and 21 days, respectively. The BMCs transplant had reduced blood glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. There was no significant difference in relation to body mass between the transplanted groups and non-transplanted groups, and all were different than CO. There was no significant difference in the glycemic curve among AT 14 days, AT-BMC 14 days, and AT 21 days, and these were different than the CO and the AT-BMC 21 days groups. The increased thickness of the aortic wall was observed in all atherogenic groups, but was significantly smaller in group AT-BMC 21 days compared to AT 14 days and AT 21 days. Vacuoles in the media tunic, delamination and the thinning of the elastic lamellae were observed in AT 14 days and AT 21 days. The smallest number of these was displayed on the AT-BMC 14 days and AT-BMC 21 days. Marking to CD105, CD133, and CD68 were observed in AT 14 days and AT 21 days. These markings were not observed in AT-BMC 14 days or in AT-BMC 21 days. Electron micrographs show the beneficial remodeling in AT-BMC 14 days and AT-BMC 21 days, and the structural organization was similar to the CO group. Vesicles of pinocytosis, projection of smooth muscle cells, and delamination of the internal elastic lamina are seen in groups AT 14 days and AT 21 days. Endothelial cells were preserved, and regular and continuous contour in internal elastic lamelae were observed in the CO, the AT-BMC 14 days, and AT-BMC 21 days groups. In conclusion, in an atherosclerotic model using mice and atherogenic diet, the injection of BMCs improves glucose, lipid metabolism, and causes a beneficial remodeling of the aortic wall.

¹H-NMR and MS based metabolomics study of the intervention effect of curcumin on hyperlipidemia mice induced by high-fat diet

Curcumin, a principle bioactive component of Curcuma longa L, is well known for its anti-hyperlipidemia effect. However, no holistic metabolic information of curcumin on hyperlipidemia models has been revealed, which may provide us an insight into the underlying mechanism. In the present work, NMR and MS based metabolomics was conducted to investigate the intervention effect of curcumin on hyperlipidemia mice induced by high-fat diet (HFD) feeding for 12 weeks. The HFD induced animals were orally administered with curcumin (40, 80 mg/kg) or lovastatin (30 mg/kg, positive control) once a day during the inducing period. Serum biochemistry assay of TC, TG, LDL-c, and HDL-c was conducted and proved that treatment of curcumin or lovastatin can significantly improve the lipid profiles. Subsequently, metabolomics analysis was carried out for urine samples. Orthogonal Partial Least Squares-Discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) was employed to investigate the anti-hyperlipidemia effect of curcumin and to detect related potential biomarkers. Totally, 35 biomarkers were identified, including 31 by NMR and nine by MS (five by both). It turned out that curcumin treatment can partially recover the metabolism disorders induced by HFD, with the following metabolic pathways involved: TCA cycle, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, synthesis of ketone bodies and cholesterol, ketogenesis of branched chain amino acid, choline metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. Besides, NMR and MS based metabolomics proved to be powerful tools in investigating pharmacodynamics effect of natural products and underlying mechanisms.

Phenolic compounds from sandpaper (ficus exasperata) leaf inhibits angiotensin 1 converting enzyme in high cholesterol diet fed rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sandpaper [Ficus exasperata Vahl (Moraceae)] leaf has been reportedly used in folklore for the management/treatment of cardiovascular diseases with little/or no scientific basis for their action. This study sought to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of sandpaper leaf on angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) activity in hypercholesterolemia as well as the effect of their phenolic extract on this enzyme in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phenolic extract was prepared, then, the inhibitory effect of the leaf extract on ACE was determined in vitro. Thereafter, the effect of dietary supplementation of sandpaper leaf on angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) activity in high cholesterol diet fed rats for 14 days was evaluated as well as some biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

The result revealed that under in vitro condition, the phenolic extract inhibited ACE (IC50=14.7µg/mL) in a dose-dependent manner (0-10µg/mL). Feeding high cholesterol diets to rats caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in the ACE activity. However, there was a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the ACE activity as a result of supplementation with the sand paper leaves. Furthermore, there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in the plasma lipid profile with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content in rat liver and heart tissues. However, supplementing the diet with sandpaper leaf (either 10% or 20%) caused a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (LDL-C), and in MDA content in the tissues. Conversely, supplementation caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level when compared with the control diet. Reversed phase HPLC analysis of the extract revealed Quercitrin (43.7mg/g), chlorogenic acid (42.8mg/g) and caffeic acid (33.9mg/g) as the major phenolics in the leaf.

CONCLUSION

The inhibition of ACE activity and prevention of hypercholesterolemia by sandpaper leaf could be part of the possible mechanism underlying its anti-hypertensive property which could lay credence to its use in folk medicine. However, these activities may be directly/indirectly attributed to the polyphenolics present.

Association of cholesteryl ester transfer protein genotypes with paraoxonase-1 activity, lipid profile and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A study in San Luis, Argentina

Aims/Introduction

Diabetic dyslipidemia is common in type 2 diabetes. The TaqIB polymorphism in cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP; B1 and B2 alleles; rs708272) is associated with changes in enzyme activity and lipid concentrations. The aim of the present study was to assess associations of CETP genotypes with lipoprotein profile, oxidant/anti-oxidant status and the plasma activity of paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) in a population of diabetic patients living in San Luis, Argentina.

Materials and Methods

For oxidative stress status parameters, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, and catalase and PON-1 activity were assessed in 40 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 30 healthy participants. CETP polymorphism was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-based methods.

Results

Type 2 diabetes mellitus had significantly higher concentrations of oxidative stress parameters: TBARS (P < 0.0001) and catalase activity (P < 0.0001). PON-1 activity and NO levels were significantly lower in diabetics (P = 0.0002 and P = 0.0008, respectively). The CETP genotypes distribution among study groups was not significantly different. The B2 carriers of the TaqIB CETP polymorphism are associated with higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and PON-1 activity in control and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Linear regression analysis showed that there was a significant and positive correlation between the changes of PON-1 activity and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in non-B1B1 (B2 carriers) in controls (r = 0.83, P < 0.0001) and diabetic patients (r = 0.39, P = 0.0003).

Conclusions

The results of the current study show that type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by intense oxidative stress, and that the alterations observed in the lipoprotein profile and PON-1 activity might be related to the higher CETP activity in diabetic patients as a consequence of insulin resistance.

HDL-mediated mechanisms of protection in cardiovascular disease

Low plasma levels of HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) represent a strong and independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. HDL particles display a wide spectrum of atheroprotective activities, which include effluxing cellular cholesterol, diminishing cellular death, decreasing vascular constriction, reducing inflammatory response, protecting from pathological oxidation, combating bacterial infection, lessening platelet activation, regulating gene expression by virtue of microRNAs, and improving glucose metabolism. It remains presently indeterminate as to whether some biological activities of HDL are more relevant for the protection of the endothelium from atherogenesis when compared with others. The multitude of such activities raises the question of a proper assay to assess HDL functionality ex vivo. Together with clear understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying atheroprotective properties of HDL, such assay will provide a basis to resolve the ultimate question of the HDL field to allow the development of efficient HDL-targeting therapies.

Purification of Holstein bull semen paraoxonase 1 (PON1) by hydrophobic interaction chromatography and investigation of its inhibition kinetics by heavy metals

In this study, paraoxonase 1 (PON1; EC 3.1.8.1) was purified from bull semen, and some characteristics of the enzyme were investigated. In vitro inhibition effect of some heavy metals, including Cu(2+), Mn(2+), Cd(2+), Zn(2+), Ni(2+), and Pb(2+), on the activity of the purified enzyme was also investigated. The purification of bull semen PON1 procedure was composed of two steps: ammonium sulfate precipitation and Sepharose-4B-L-tyrosine-1-naphthylamine hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The enzyme, having a specific activity of 288 EU/mg proteins, was purified 22.67-fold with a yield of 89 %. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the purified enzyme showed the presence of a single band with an apparent MW of 66 kDa. The V max and K M values for the paraoxon substrate were determined as 100 EU and 8.0 × 10(-5) M, respectively. The inhibitory effects of different heavy metals on PON1 activity were determined by using the paraoxon as a substrate. The results showed that all the metals, except for Cd(2+), inhibited the PON1 enzyme activity in a concentration-dependent fashion. IC50 values of Cu(2+), Mn(2+), Zn(2+), Ni(2+), and Pb(2+) were found as 2.59 × 10(-3), 1.17 × 10(-3), 42.74 × 10(-3), 99.10 × 10(-3), 48.80 × 10(-3) mM, respectively. Conversely, Cd(2+) increased the bull semen PON1 enzyme activity. The present study has demonstrated that Cu(2+), Mn(2+), Zn(2+), Ni(2+), and Pb(2+) are serious toxic metals, which are able to increase the risk of oxidative stress development and a subsequent decrease of semen quality.

Endothelial function, antioxidant status and vascular compliance in newly diagnosed HFE C282Y homozygotes

PURPOSE

This pilot study was aimed to establish techniques for assessing and observing trends in endothelial function, antioxidant status and vascular compliance in newly diagnosed HFE haemochromatosis during the first year of venesection.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Untreated newly diagnosed HFE haemochromatosis patients were tested for baseline liver function, iron indices, lipid profile, markers of endothelial function, anti-oxidant status and vascular compliance. Following baseline assessment, subjects attended at 6-weeks and at 3, 6, 9 and 12-months for follow-up studies.

RESULTS

Ten patients were recruited (M=8, F=2, mean age=51 years). Venesection significantly increased high density lipoproteins at 12-months (1.25 mmol/L vs. 1.37 mmol/L, p=0.01). However, venesection did not significantly affect lipid hydroperoxides, intracellular and vascular cell adhesion molecules or high sensitivity C-reactive protein (0.57 μmol/L vs. 0.51 μmol/L, p=0.45, 427.4 ng/ml vs. 307.22 ng/ml, p=0.54, 517.70 ng/ml vs. 377.50 ng/ml, p=0.51 and 290.75 μg/dL vs. 224.26 μg/dL, p=0.25). There was also no significant effect of venesection on anti-oxidant status or pulse wave velocity (9.65 m/s vs. 8.74 m/s, p=0.34).

CONCLUSIONS

Venesection significantly reduced high density lipoproteins but was not associated with significant changes in endothelial function, anti-oxidant status or vascular compliance. Larger studies using this established methodology are required to clarify this relationship further.

Inhibition of angiotensin-1-converting enzyme activity by two varieties of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in rats fed a high cholesterol diet

Angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. This study sought to investigate the inhibitory effect of two varieties of ginger (Zingiber officinale) commonly consumed in Nigeria on ACE activity in rats fed a high cholesterol diet. The inhibition of ACE activity of two varieties of ginger (Z. officinale) was investigated in a high cholesterol (2%) diet fed to rats for 3 days. Feeding high cholesterol diets to rats caused a significant (P<.05) increase in the ACE activity. However, there was a significant (P<.05) inhibition of ACE activity as a result of supplementation with the ginger varieties. Rats that were fed 4% white ginger had the greatest inhibitory effect as compared with a control diet. Furthermore, there was a significant (P<.05) increase in the plasma lipid profile with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content in rat liver and heart tissues. However, supplementing the diet with red and white ginger (either 2% or 4%) caused a significant (P<.05) decrease in the plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, and in MDA content in the tissues. Conversely, supplementation caused a significant (P<.05) increase in plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level when compared with the control diet. Nevertheless, rats fed 4% red ginger had the greatest reduction as compared with control diet. In conclusion, both ginger varieties exhibited anti-hypercholesterolemic properties in a high cholesterol diet fed to rats. This activity of the gingers may be attributed to its ACE inhibitory activity. However, white ginger inhibited ACE better in a high cholesterol diet fed to rats than red ginger. Therefore, both gingers could serve as good functional foods/nutraceuticals in the management/treatment of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.