Genetically modified rapeseed oil containing cis-9,trans-11,cis-13-octadecatrienoic acid affects body fat mass and lipid metabolism in mice

Punicic acid ameliorates obesity-related hyperlipidemia and fatty liver in mice via regulation of intestinal flora and lipopolysaccharide-related signaling pathways

Punicic acid (PA), mainly found in pomegranate seed oil (PSO), has attracted increasing attention due to its potential to mitigate obesity. The regulation of intestinal microflora was identified as a crucial factor and an effective strategy to reverse obesity-related hyperlipidemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). To assess the impact of PSO on hyperlipidemia related to obesity, we investigated the hepatic lipid status and gut microbiota regulation in mice over 13 weeks of feeding a high-fructose high-fat diet (HFHFD). Serum lipid markers, including TG, TC and LDL-C, were markedly reduced in hyperlipidemic mice. PSO supplementation reduced hepatic lipid accumulation and steatosis, inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators (including IL-6 and IL-1β), and restored the normal levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In addition, PSO also alleviated oxidative stress and increased T-AOC and SOD activities, as well as GSH levels, while reducing the MDA content in the liver of HFHFD-fed mice. The activation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and TLR4/IL-22/STAT3 signaling pathways in the liver due to the HFHFD was also evidently inhibited by PSO. Furthermore, supplementation of PSO ameliorated the HFHFD-induced dysbiosis of intestinal microflora, resulting in a markedly increased proportion of Muribaculaceae, a decreased ratio of Blautia, and elevated levels of microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Moreover, the expression of tight junction proteins correlated with intestinal barrier function was notably restored in the colon. The collected results indicate that PSO may be an effective nutraceutical ingredient for attenuating lipid metabolic disorders.

Conjugated Linolenic Acid (CLnA) vs Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): A Comprehensive Review of Potential Advantages in Molecular Characteristics, Health Benefits, and Production Techniques

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been extensively characterized due to its many biological activities and health benefits, but conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) is still not well understood. However, CLnA has shown to be more effective than CLA as a potential functional food ingredient. Current research has not thoroughly investigated the differences and advantages between CLnA and CLA. This article compares CLnA and CLA based on molecular characteristics, including structural, chemical, and metabolic characteristics. Then, the in vivo research evidence of CLnA on various health benefits is comprehensively reviewed and compared with CLA in terms of effectiveness and mechanism. Furthermore, the potential of CLnA in production technology and product protection is analyzed. In general, CLnA and CLA have similar physicochemical properties of conjugated molecules and share many similarities in regulation effects and pathways of various health benefits as well as in the production methods. However, their specific properties, regulatory capabilities, and unique mechanisms are different. The superior potential of CLnA must be specified according to the practical application patterns of isomers. Future research should focus more on the advantageous characteristics of different isomers, especially the effectiveness and safety in clinical applications in order to truly exert the potential value of CLnA.

Yarrowia lipolytica as a Platform for Punicic Acid Production

Punicic acid (PuA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with significant medical, biological, and nutraceutical properties. The primary source of punicic acid is the pomegranate seed oil obtained from fruits of trees that are mainly cultivated in subtropical and tropical climates. To establish sustainable production of PuA, various recombinant microorganisms and plants have been explored as platforms with limited efficiencies. In this study, the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica was employed as a host for PuA production. First, growth and lipid accumulation of Y. lipolytica were evaluated in medium supplemented with pomegranate seed oil, resulting in the accumulation of lipids up to 31.2%, consisting of 22% PuA esterified in the fraction of glycerolipids. In addition, lipid-engineered Y. lipolytica strains, transformed with the bifunctional fatty acid conjugase/desaturase from Punica granatum (PgFADX), showed the ability to accumulate PuA de novo. PuA was detected in both polar and neutral lipid fractions, especially in phosphatidylcholine and triacylglycerols. Promoter optimization for PgFADX expression resulted in improved accumulation of PuA from 0.9 to 1.8 mg/g of dry cell weight. The best-producing strain expressing PgFADX under the control of a strong erythritol-inducible promoter produced 36.6 mg/L PuA. These results demonstrate that the yeast Y. lipolytica is a promising host for PuA production.

Metabolic, structure-activity characteristics of conjugated linolenic acids and their mediated health benefits

Conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) is a mixture of octadecenoic acid with multiple positional and geometric isomers (including four 9, 11, 13-C18:3 isomers and three 8, 10, 12-C18:3 isomers) that is mainly present in plant seeds. In recent years, CLnA has shown many promising health benefits with the deepening of research, but the metabolic characteristics, physiological function differences and mechanisms of different isomers are relatively complex. In this article, the metabolic characteristics of CLnA were firstly reviewed, with focus on its conversion, catabolism and anabolism. Then the possible mechanisms of CLnA exerting biological effects were summarized and analyzed from its own chemical and physical characteristics, as well as biological receptor targeting characteristics. In addition, the differences and mechanisms of different isomers of CLnA in anticancer, lipid-lowering, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory physiological functions were compared and summarized. The current results show that the position and cis-trans conformation of conjugated structure endow CLnA with unique physical and chemical properties, which also makes different isomers have commonalities and particularities in the regulation of metabolism and physiological functions. Corresponding the metabolic characteristics of different isomers with precise nutrition strategy will help them to play a better role in disease prevention and treatment. CLnA has the potential to be developed into food functional components and dietary nutritional supplements. The advantages and mechanisms of different CLnA isomers in the clinical management of specific diseases need further study.

Heterologous Production of Calendic Acid Naturally Found in Calendula officinalis by Recombinant Fission Yeast

Calendic acid (CA) is a conjugated fatty acid with anti-cancer properties that is widely present in seed oil of Calendula officinalis. Using the co-expression of C. officinalis fatty acid conjugases (CoFADX-1 or CoFADX-2) and Punica granatum fatty acid desaturase (PgFAD2), we metabolically engineered the synthesis of CA in the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe without the need for linoleic acid (LA) supplementation. The highest CA titer and achieved accumulation were 4.4 mg/L and 3.7 mg/g of DCW in PgFAD2 + CoFADX-2 recombinant strain cultivated at 16 °C for 72 h, respectively. Further analyses revealed the accumulation of CA in free fatty acids (FFA) and downregulation of the lcf1 gene encoding long-chain fatty acyl-CoA synthetase. The developed recombinant yeast system represents an important tool for the future identification of the essential components of the channeling machinery to produce CA as a high-value conjugated fatty acid at an industrial level.

Pomegranate Seed Oil as a Source of Conjugated Linolenic Acid (CLnA) Has No Effect on Atherosclerosis Development but Improves Lipid Profile and Affects the Expression of Lipid Metabolism Genes in apoE/LDLR-/- Mice

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-atherosclerotic effect of pomegranate seed oil as a source of conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) (cis-9,trans-11,cis-13; punicic acid) compared to linolenic acid (LnA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) (cis-9,trans-11) in apoE/LDLR^-/- mice. In the LONG experiment, 10-week old mice were fed for the 18 weeks. In the SHORT experiment, 18-week old mice were fed for the 10 weeks. Diets were supplied with seed oils equivalent to an amount of 0.5% of studied fatty acids. In the SHORT experiment, plasma TCh and LDL+VLDL cholesterol levels were significantly decreased in animals fed CLnA and CLA compared to the Control. The expression of PPARα in liver was four-fold increased in CLnA group in the SHORT experiment, and as a consequence the expression of its target gene ACO was three-fold increased, whereas the liver's expression of SREBP-1 and FAS were decreased in CLnA mice only in the LONG experiment. Punicic acid and CLA isomers were determined in the adipose tissue and liver in animals receiving pomegranate seed oil. In both experiments, there were no effects on the area of atherosclerotic plaque in aortic roots. However, in the SHORT experiment, the area of atherosclerosis in the entire aorta in the CLA group compared to CLnA and LnA was significantly decreased. In conclusion, CLnA improved the lipid profile and affected the lipid metabolism gene expression, but did not have the impact on the development of atherosclerotic plaque in apoE/LDLR^-/- mice.

Biosynthesis and Transfer of α-Elostearic Acid In Vivo in Momordica charantia L. Developing Seeds and In Vitro in Microsomal Fractions of These Seeds

The research concerned the efficiency of biosynthesis and transfer to triacylglycerols (TAG) of α-eleostearic acid (αESA). The experiments were carried out on developing seeds of Momordica charantia L. and on microsomal fractions obtained from these seeds. The seeds from in vivo conditions were collected 20, 23, 26 and 33 days after pollination (DAP) and used for lipid extraction and further analyses. Microsomal fractions were prepared from seeds at 26 DAP. The most intensive lipid accumulation occurred between 20 and 26 DAP, but continued up to 33 DAP. The most abundant lipid fraction was TAG; up to 98% of total acyl lipids at 33 DAP. The synthesised in vivo αESA was very efficiently transferred to TAG and constituted about 60% of its total fatty acids in 33 DAP. The content of αESA in polar lipids (containing, among others, phosphatidylcholine-the place of αESA biosynthesis) was very low. The biosynthesis of αESA in vitro (assays with microsomal fractions and [¹⁴C]-labelled substrates) in the presence of NADPH was fairly intensive (about 60% of the corresponding intensity in vivo) when linolenic acid was used as a substrate. Contrary to the in vivo condition, most of the synthesised in vitro αESA remained in phosphatidylcholine.

Engineering Yarrowia lipolytica to produce nutritional fatty acids: Current status and future perspectives

Due to their vital physiological functions, nutritional fatty acids have great potential as nutraceutical food supplements for preventing an array of diseases such as inflammation, depression, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and cancer. Microbial biosynthesis of fatty acids follows the trend of sustainable development, as it enables green, environmentally friendly and efficient production. As a natural oleaginous yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica is especially well-suited for the production of fatty acids. Moreover, it has a variety of genetic engineering tools and novel metabolic engineering strategies that make it a robust workhorse for the production of an array of value-added products. In this review, we summarize recent advances in metabolic engineering strategies for accumulating nutritional fatty acids in Y. lipolytica, including conjugated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, the future prospects of nutritional fatty acid production using the Y. lipolytica platform are discussed in light of the current progress, challenges, and trends in this field. Finally, guidelines for future studies are also emphasized.

Dietary High-Dose Biotin Intake Activates Fat Oxidation and Hepatic Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase in Rat

This study investigated the effects of dietary high-dose biotin intake on fat oxidation in rats using respiratory gas analysis, and evaluated fatty-acid oxidation-related enzyme activities and gene expressions in the liver. Five-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a control diet and three biotin-supplemented diets (additive biotin concentration: 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.20% of diet) for 3 wk. In 2 wk, fat oxidation in the 0.20% biotin-supplemented diet group was higher than that in the 0.05% biotin-supplemented diet group; however, the energy expenditure and carbohydrate oxidation were unchanged between the dietary groups. At the end of 3 wk, body weight and epididymal white adipose tissue weight reduced in the 0.20% biotin diet group, and hepatic triglyceride levels tended to decrease. Additionally, increased plasma adiponectin concentration and hepatic mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyltransferase activity as well as decreased hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase 2 gene expression were observed in the 0.20% biotin-supplemented diet group compared with those in the control group. These results provide strong evidence that dietary high-dose biotin intake activated fat oxidation due to the increase in hepatic β-oxidation, which may contribute to the decrease in hepatic triglyceride concentration and white adipose tissue weight.

Jacaranda oil administration improves serum biomarkers and bioavailability of bioactive conjugated fatty acids, and alters fatty acid profile of mice tissues

Jacaric acid, a conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) present in jacaranda oil (JO), is considered a potent anticarcinogenic agent. Several studies have focused on its biological effects, but the metabolism once consumed is not clear yet. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of two different daily doses of JO on serum parameters and fatty acid (FA) profile of mice tissues after 4 weeks of feeding. No significant changes on body weight gain, food intake, or tissue weight were determined after 0.7 or 2 ml/kg of JO supplementation compared to control animals. Significantly lower blood low-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (20 mg/dl) and glucose (~147-148 mg/dl) levels were detected in both oil-treated groups compared to control (31.2 and 165 mg/dl, respectively). Moreover, jacaric acid was partially converted into cis9, trans11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and thus further incorporated into tissues. Liver evidenced the highest total conjugated fatty acid content (1.1%-2.2%), followed by epididymal (0.7%-1.9%) and mesenteric (1.4%-1.8%) fat. Lower saturated and higher unsaturated fatty acid content was detected in both oil-treated groups compared to control. Our results support the safety of JO and its potential application with a functional or nutraceutical propose, by increasing human CLNA consumption and further availability of CLA.

Partial replacement of forage and concentrate with pomegranate pulp (peel and seed) silage and pomegranate seed pulp in Mehraban fattening lambs: effect on performance and carcass characteristics

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of forage and concentrate with pomegranate pulp silage (PPS) and dried pomegranate seed pulp (PSP) on performance, dry matter intake (DMI), and carcass characteristics of fattening Mehraban lambs. Twenty-four male lambs (mean body weight 27.0 ± 3.5 kg) were fed with three isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets (n = 8 per diet), consisting of a control diet, a PPS diet containing 27.2% pomegranate pulp silage, and a PSP diet containing 31.4% dried pomegranate seed pulp. The experimental diets were fed ad libitum as total mixed rations for 65-day fattening period, on two meals per day, and then the growth performance, feed intake, and carcass characteristics were determined. The initial BW, final BW, average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were not different among the experimental diets. The amount of DMI in PSP diet was higher than that in the control diet (P = 0.023) but was not different between the control and PPS diets. There was no significant difference among diets for carcass characteristics. Using PPS and PSP in the diets decreased (P < 0.05) the kidney fat, but had no impact on the heart, liver, kidneys, spleen, and lungs. The results showed that PPS and PSP could be used to replace part of the diet for fattening lambs, while decreasing the dietary cost without having any negative effects on animal performance.

Punicic acid ameliorates obesity and liver steatosis by regulating gut microbiota composition in mice

This study aimed to elucidate the effect of punicic acid (PUA, cis9,trans11,cis13-18 : 3) on obesity and liver steatosis in mice induced by high-fat diet (HFD), and to explore the possible mechanism. Mice were fed with either a HFD or a control diet for 8 weeks. Half of HFD-mice received daily supplementation of PUA. Supplementation with PUA ameliorated the liver steatosis and obesity in mice fed by HFD, as demonstrated by the decreased hepatic triglyceride accumulation, body weight gain and fat weight. A HFD increased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, whereas supplementation with PUA effectively restored it. PUA supplementation counteracted the upregulation in family Desulfovibrionaceae and Helicobacteraceae, and the downregulation in Muribaculaceae and Bacteroidaceae induced by HFD. Correspondingly, the family of Desulfovibrionaceae was positively related, whereas Muribaculaceae was negatively related to the amount of epididymal and perirenal fat, and the level of liver triglyceride and total cholesterol. The family Helicobacteraceae was also positively related to the amount of epididymal and perirenal fat. Moreover, PUA supplementation counteracted the increase in the population of Anaerotruncus, Faecalibaculim, Mucispirillum, and the decrease in the population of Lactobacillus, Roseburia, Oscillibacter at the genus level induced by HFD. These results demonstrated that PUA can at least in part ameliorate obesity and liver steatosis in mice induced by HFD by regulating gut microbiota composition.

A Three-Month Consumption of Eggs Enriched with ω-3, ω-5 and ω-7 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Significantly Decreases the Waist Circumference of Subjects at Risk of Developing Metabolic Syndrome: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), rumenic acid (RmA), and punicic acid (PunA) are claimed to influence several physiological functions including insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism and inflammatory processes. In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, we investigated the combined effect of ALA, DHA, RmA and PunA on subjects at risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Twenty-four women and men were randomly assigned to two groups. Each day, they consumed two eggs enriched with oleic acid (control group) or enriched with ALA, DHA, RmA, and PunA (test group) for 3 months. The waist circumference decreased significantly (−3.17 cm; p < 0.001) in the test group. There were no major changes in plasma insulin and blood glucose in the two groups. The dietary treatments had no significant effect on endothelial function as measured by peripheral arterial tonometry, although erythrocyte nitrosylated hemoglobin concentrations tended to decrease. The high consumption of eggs induced significant elevations in plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL)- and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (p < 0.001), which did not result in any change in the LDL/HDL ratio in both groups. These results indicate that consumption of eggs enriched with ALA, DHA, RmA and PunA resulted in favorable changes in abdominal obesity without affecting other factors of the metabolic syndrome.

Punica granatum L.-derived omega-5 nanoemulsion improves hepatic steatosis in mice fed a high fat diet by increasing fatty acid utilization in hepatocytes

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is mainly composed of punicic acid (PA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid also known as omega-5 (ω-5), a potent antioxidant associated with a variety of metabolic and cellular beneficial effects. However, the potential benefits of a nanoemulsified version of ω-5 (PSOn) have not been evaluated in a pathological liver condition. Here, we examined whether PSOn had beneficial effects on C57BL/6N mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD), specifically on hepatic steatosis. We observed that PSOn supplementation decreased body weight and body fat mass in control mice, whereas glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, energy expenditure, and hepatic steatosis were improved in both control mice and in mice fed a HFD. Interestingly, PSOn increased fatty acid oxidation in primary hepatocytes and antioxidant gene expression. Altogether, our data indicate that PSOn effectively reduces some of the HFD-derived metabolic syndrome indicators by means of an increase in fatty acid oxidation within hepatocytes.

Punicic acid production in Brassica napus

Punicic acid (PuA; 18:3Δ^{9cis,11trans,13cis}), a conjugated linolenic acid isomer bearing three conjugated double bonds, is associated with various health benefits and has potential for industrial use. The major nature source of this unusual fatty acid is pomegranate (Punica granatum) seed oil, which contains up to 80% (w/w) of its fatty acids as PuA. Pomegranate seed oil, however, is low yielding with unstable production and thus limits the supply of PuA. Metabolic engineering of established temperate oil crops for PuA production, therefore, has the potential to be a feasible strategy to overcome the limitations associated with sourcing PuA from pomegranate. In this study, the cDNAs encoding a pomegranate fatty acid conjugase and a pomegranate oleate desaturase were co-expressed in canola-type Brassica napus. Transgenic B. napus lines accumulated up to 11% (w/w) of the total fatty acids as PuA in the seed oil, which is the highest level of PuA reported in metabolically engineered oilseed crops so far. Levels of seed oil PuA were stable over two generations and had no negative effects on seed germination. The transgenic B. napus lines with the highest PuA levels contained multiple transgene insertions and the PuA content of B. napus seed oil was correlated with efficiency of oleic acid desaturation and linoleic acid conjugation. In addition, PuA accumulated at lower levels in polar lipids (5.0-6.9%) than triacylglycerol (7.5-10.6%), and more than 60% of triacylglycerol-associated PuA was present at the sn-2 position. This study provides the basis for the commercial production of PuA in transgenic oilseed crops and thus would open new prospects for the application of this unusual fatty acid in health and industry.

c9, t11, c15-CLNA and t9, t11, c15-CLNA from Lactobacillus plantarum ZS2058 Ameliorate Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis in Mice

To investigate the specific functions of conjugated fatty acids (CFAs) produced by the probiotic bacterium, α-linolenic acid was isomerized by Lactobacillus plantarum ZS2058, and two different conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) isomers were successfully isolated: c9, t11, c15-CLNA (CLNA1) and t9, t11, c15-CLNA (CLNA2). The effects and mechanism of CLNA crude extract and individual isomers on colitis were explored. CLNA significantly inhibited weight loss, the disease activity index, and colon shortening. Additionally, CLNA alleviated histological damage, protected colonic mucus layer integrity, and significantly upregulated the concentration of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, E-cadherin 1, and claudin-3). CLNA significantly attenuated the level of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) while upregulating the expression of the colonic anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and nuclear receptor peroxisome-activated receptor-γ. Moreover, CLNA increased the activity of oxidative stress-related enzymes (SOD, GSH, and CAT), and the myeloperoxidase activity was significantly decreased by CLNA. Meanwhile, the concentrations of CLNA in the liver and conjugated linoleic acid in the colonic content were significantly increased because of the treatment of CLNA. Furthermore, CLNA could rebalance the intestinal microbial composition of colitis mice, including increasing the α-diversity. CLNA1 and CLNA2 increased the abundance of Ruminococcus and Prevotella, respectively.

Antiproliferation Activity and Mechanism of c9, t11, c15-CLNA and t9, t11, c15-CLNA from Lactobacillus plantarum ZS2058 on Colon Cancer Cells

Conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) is a type of ω-3 fatty acid which has been proven to have a series of benefits. However, there is no study about the function of Lactobacillus-derived CLNA isomer. Lactobacillus plantarum ZS2058 has been proven to manifest comprehensive functions and can produce CLNA. To investigate the specific functions of CLNA produced by this probiotic bacterium, two different conjugated α-linolenic acid (CLNA) isomers were successfully isolated. These isoforms, CLNA1 (c9, t11, c15-CLNA, purity 97.48%) and CLNA2 (c9, t11, t15-CLNA, purity 99.00%), both showed the ability to inhibit the growth of three types of colon cancer cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. In addition, the expression of MDA in Caco-2 cells was increased by CLNA1 or CLNA2, which indicated that lipid peroxidation was related to the antiproliferation activity of CLNAs. An examination of the key protein of pyroptosis showed that CLNA1 induced the cleavage of caspase-1 and gasdermin-D, while CLNA2 induced the cleavage of caspase-4, 5 and gasdermin-D. The addition of relative inhibitors could alleviate the pyroptosis by CLNAs. CLNA1 and CLNA2 showed no effect on caspase-3, 7, 9 and PARP-1, which were key proteins associated with apoptosis. No sub-diploid apoptotic peak appeared in the result of PI single staining test. In conclusion, CLNA1 activated caspase-1 and induced Caco-2 cell pyroptosis, whereas CLNA2 induced pyroptosis through the caspase-4/5-mediated pathway. The inhibition of Caco-2 cells by the two isomers was not related to apoptosis. This is the first study on the function of Lactobacillus-derived CLNA isomer. The inhibition pathway of Lactobacillus-derived CLNA isomer on colon cancer cells were proved.

Effect of pomegranate seed oil on the expression of PPAR-γ and pro-inflammatory biomarkers in obese type 2 diabetic patients

Purpose

Diabetes is one of the most prevailed chronic diseases in the world. Pro-inflammatory cytokines play a key role in the type 2 diabetes mellitus. Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) has potential anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of the use of PSO on the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ), pro-inflammatory biomarkers and lipid profile levels in obese type 2 diabetic patients.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 52 patients were randomly assigned to the PSO (n = 26) and placebo (n = 26) groups. Subjects received daily PSO 3 g placebo (paraffin) in 1 g soft-gel capsules (along with breakfast, lunch and dinner meals) for eight weeks.

Findings

Serum levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS) decreased from 161.46 ± 34.44 to 143.50 ± 24.2 mg/dL (p = 0.008), IL-6 decreased from 5.17 ± 2.25 to 4.52 ± 1.90 (p = 0.049) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) significantly decreased from 9.17 ± 4.13 to 7.74 ± 2.44 pmol/mL in PSO group (p = 0.030). However, changes in the expression of PPAR-γ gene, serum levels of hs-CRP and lipid profile levels were not significant.

Research limitations/implications

Lack of PSO concentration measurements and the short duration of the study were the key limitations. Future randomized clinical trials with a longer period of follow-up are needed to assess the potential anti-diabetic effects of PSO.

Originality/value

Administration of PSO in obese type 2 diabetic patients reduced the levels of FBS, interleukin 6 and TNF-α; nevertheless, changes in the insulin, lipid profiles and hs-CRP were not significant.

Liver and serum lipids in Wistar rats fed a novel structured lipid containing conjugated linoleic acid and conjugated linolenic acid

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) have been known to have several health-promoting effects. The aim of this study was to introduce a novel structured lipid (SL) including both CLA and CLnA (cis9, trans11, cis13-18:3, punicic acid) into one triacylglycerol (TAG) molecule through enzymatic interesterification and investigate its effect on body weight, liver and serum lipids in Wistar rats. CLA oil, pomegranate seed oil (as a rich source of CLnA) and soybean oil (as a negative control) were applied as other experimental oils. The rats were fed the oils at 1500 mg/kg body weight per day via oral gavage for 45 days. Gas chromatography analysis showed that SL included CLnA and CLA in roughly equal concentrations. The in vivo study revealed that SL had the greatest effect on the reduction in liver lipid weight (4.65 g/100g of liver) and liver TAG (13.28 mg/g) compared to soybean oil (8.7 g/100g and 18.8 mg/g, respectively). High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the serum of rats which were fed CLA oil significantly (p < 0.05) increased (from 0.95 to 1.14 mmol/l). Pomegranate seed oil reduced low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol (about 40% and 24% reduction, respectively). A remarkable TAG reduction (p < 0.05) was observed in all treated rats.

The anti-adiposity effect of bitter melon seed oil is solely attributed to its fatty acid components

Background

Obesity is the leading chronic disease affecting people of all ages. The objective of this study was to optimize composition of a bitter melon seed oil (BMSO) product to maximize its anti-adiposity effect.

Methods

Bleaching oil, saponifiables and non-saponifiables were prepared from BMSO, with α-eleostearic acid (α-ESA) content in BMSO maintained in bleaching oil and saponifiables. C57BL/6 J mice were allocated into five groups (n = 10/group) to receive diet C [30% soybean oil (SBO)], BM [25% SBO + 5% BMSO], BMS, BMNS or BMD. For the three latter diets, saponifiables (hydrolyzed fatty acids from BMSO), non-saponifiables (excluding fatty acids from BMSO) or bleaching oil (excluding pigments from BMSO), respectively, were added in amount equivalent to their content in 5% BMSO and SBO was added to bring total fat to 30%. After 14 wk., indices associated with adiposity and safety, as well as lipid metabolic signaling in white adipose tissue (WAT), were measured.

Results

The body fat percentage of mice in group BM, BMS, BMNS, and BMD were 90 ± 26, 76 ± 21, 115 ± 30 and 95 ± 17% of that in group C. Based on body fat percentage and plasma leptin concentrations, an anti-adiposity effect was evident in groups BM, BMS and BMD (greatest effect in BMS). Histologically, inguinal fat had smaller adipocytes in groups BM, BMS and BMD (P < 0.05), but not in group BMNS, relative to group C. There were no differences among groups in blood pressure or heart rate. Moreover, Sirt1 mRNA levels in inguinal fat were significantly greater in groups BM, BMS and BMD than group C.

Conclusion

We concluded that the anti-adiposity function of BMSO was solely attributed to the fatty acid fraction, with the free fatty acid form having the greatest effect.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12944-017-0578-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Punicic acid: A striking health substance to combat metabolic syndromes in humans

Punicic acid, a bioactive compound of pomegranate seed oil has gained wide attention for their therapeutic potential. Different studies conducted on animal and human models have revealed that punicic acid is very effective against various chronic diseases. Substantial laboratory works has been carried out to elaborate punicic acid effectiveness and mechanism of action in animals. The intention of this review article is to explore the facts about the clinical trials of punicic acid and to discuss different future strategies that can be employed to use it in human clinical trials. Although punicic acid may represent a novel therapeutic unconventional approach for some disorders, still further experimental studies are required to demonstrate its effects in human beings.

Bifidobacterium breve with α-linolenic acid alters the composition, distribution and transcription factor activity associated with metabolism and absorption of fat

This study focused on the mechanisms that fatty acid conjugating strains - Bifidobacterium breve NCIMB 702258 and Bifidobacterium breve DPC 6330 - influence lipid metabolism when ingested with α-linolenic acid (ALA) enriched diet. Four groups of BALB/c mice received ALA enriched diet (3% (w/w)) either alone or in combination with B. breve NCIMB 702258 or B. breve DPC 6330 (10⁹ CFU/day) or unsupplemented control diet for six weeks. The overall n-3 PUFA score was increased in all groups receiving the ALA enriched diet. Hepatic peroxisomal beta oxidation increased following supplementation of the ALA enriched diet with B. breve (P < 0.05) and so the ability of the strains to produce c9t11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) was identified in adipose tissue. Furthermore, a strain specific effect of B. breve NCIMB 702258 was found on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Liver triglycerides (TAG) were reduced following ALA supplementation, compared with unsupplemented controls (P < 0.01) while intervention with B. breve further reduced liver TAG (P < 0.01), compared with the ALA enriched control. These data indicate that the interactions of the gut microbiota with fatty acid metabolism directly affect host health by modulating n-3 PUFA score and the ECS.

A conjugated fatty acid present at high levels in bitter melon seed favorably affects lipid metabolism in hepatocytes by increasing NAD(+)/NADH ratio and activating PPARα, AMPK and SIRT1 signaling pathway

α-Eleostearic acid (α-ESA), or the cis-9, trans-11, trans-13 isomer of conjugated linolenic acid, is a special fatty acid present at high levels in bitter melon seed oil. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of α-ESA on hepatic lipid metabolism. Using H4IIEC3 hepatoma cell line, we showed that α-ESA significantly lowered intracellular triglyceride accumulation compared to α-linolenic acid (LN), used as a fatty acid control, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effects of α-ESA on enzyme activities and mRNA profiles in H4IIEC3 cells suggested that enhanced fatty acid oxidation and lowered lipogenesis were involved in α-ESA-mediated triglyceride lowering effects. In addition, α-ESA triggered AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation without altering sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein levels. When cells were treated with vehicle control (VC), LN alone (LN; 100μmol/L) or in combination with α-ESA (LN+α-ESA; 75+25μmol/L) for 24h, acetylation of forkhead box protein O1 was decreased, while the NAD(+)/NADH ratio, mRNA levels of NAMPT and PTGR1 and enzyme activity of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase were increased by LN+α-ESA treatment compared to treatment with LN alone, suggesting that α-ESA activates SIRT1 by increasing NAD(+) synthesis and NAD(P)H consumption. The antisteatosis effect of α-ESA was confirmed in mice treated with a high-sucrose diet supplemented with 1% α-ESA for 5weeks. We conclude that α-ESA favorably affects hepatic lipid metabolism by increasing cellular NAD(+)/NADH ratio and activating PPARα, AMPK and SIRT1 signaling pathways.

Sources and Bioactive Properties of Conjugated Dietary Fatty Acids

The group of conjugated fatty acids known as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers have been extensively studied with regard to their bioactive potential in treating some of the most prominent human health malignancies. However, CLA isomers are not the only group of potentially bioactive conjugated fatty acids currently undergoing study. In this regard, isomers of conjugated α-linolenic acid, conjugated nonadecadienoic acid and conjugated eicosapentaenoic acid, to name but a few, have undergone experimental assessment. These studies have indicated many of these conjugated fatty acid isomers commonly possess anti-carcinogenic, anti-adipogenic, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating properties, a number of which will be discussed in this review. The mechanisms through which these bioactivities are mediated have not yet been fully elucidated. However, existing evidence indicates that these fatty acids may play a role in modulating the expression of several oncogenes, cell cycle regulators, and genes associated with energy metabolism. Despite such bioactive potential, interest in these conjugated fatty acids has remained low relative to the CLA isomers. This may be partly attributed to the relatively recent emergence of these fatty acids as bioactives, but also due to a lack of awareness regarding sources from which they can be produced. In this review, we will also highlight the common sources of these conjugated fatty acids, including plants, algae, microbes and chemosynthesis.

Incorporation and effects of punicic acid on muscle and adipose tissues of rats

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effect of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) supplementation, rich in punicic acid (55 %/C18:3-9c,11 t,13c/CLNA), on the lipid profile and on the biochemical and oxidative parameters in the gastrocnemius muscle and adipose tissues of healthy rats. Linseed oil (LO), rich in linolenic acid (52 %/C18:3-9c12c15c/LNA) was used for comparison.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n = 56) were distributed in seven groups: control (water); LNA 1 %, 2 % and 4 % (treated with LO); CLNA 1 %, 2 % and 4 % (treated with PSO), po for 40 days. The percentages were compared to the daily feed intake. Fatty acid profile were performed by gas chromatography, antioxidant enzymes activity by spectrophotometer and the adipocytes were isolated by collagenase tissue digestion. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to check for differences between the groups (control, LNAs and CLNAs) and principal component analysis (PCA) was used to project the groups in the factor-place (PC1 vs PC2) based on the biochemical responses assessed in the study.

RESULTS

The fatty acids profile of tissues showed that the LNA percentages were higher in the animals that were fed LO. However, PA was only detected in the adipose tissues. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) was present in all the tissues of the animals supplemented with PSO, in a dose dependent manner, and 9c11t-CLA was the predominant isomer. Nevertheless there were no changes in the total weight gain of the animals, the weights of the tissues, and the oxidative stress parameters in the muscle. In addition, there was an increase in the size of the epididymal fat cells in the groups treated with PSO. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the CLNAs groups were arranged separately with a cumulative variance of 68.47 %.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that PSO can be used as a source of CLAs but that it does not cause changes in body modulation and does not interfere in the antioxidant activity of healthy rats.

Health Benefits of Punicic Acid: A Review

Punicic acid (PA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (18:3 n-5), which is classified as a conjugated linolenic acid. PA is also referred as a "super CLnA" whose effect is even more potent than that of an ordinary CLnA. It is found mainly in the seeds of pomegranate fruit (Punica granatum) and Trichoxanthes kirilowii and some other minor sources. It possesses a wide array of biological properties including antidiabetic, antiobesity, antiproliferative, and anticarcinogenic activity against various forms of cancer. In spite of this, PA has not been explored as a nutraceutical or as an ingredient of food products which can be aimed at specific consumer target groups. This review details the various health-beneficial properties of PA and explores the possibilities of its utilization as an active ingredient in various food products.

Modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR γ) by conjugated fatty acid in obesity and inflammatory bowel disease

Conjugated fatty acids including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) have drawn significant attention for their variety of biologically beneficial effects. Evidence suggested that CLA and CLNA could play physiological roles by regulating the expression and activity of PPAR γ. This review summarizes the current understanding of evidence of the role of CLA (cis-9,trans-11 CLA and trans-10,cis-12 CLA) and CLNA (punicic acid and α-eleostearic acid) in modulating the expression or activity of PPAR γ that could in turn be employed as complementary treatment for obesity and inflammatory bowel disease.

Conjugated linolenic acids and their bioactivities: a review

Conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) is a mixture of positional and geometric isomers of octadecatrienoic acid (α-linolenic acid, cis9,cis12,cis15-18:3 n-3) found in plant seeds. Three 8,10,12-18:3 isomers and four 9,11,13-18:3 isomers have been reported to occur naturally. CLNA isomers such as punicic acid, α-eleostearic acid and jacaric acid have been attributed to exhibit several health benefits that are largely based on animal and in vitro studies. This review has summarized and updated the evidence regarding the metabolism and bioactivities of CLNA isomers, and comprehensively discussed the recent studies on the effects of anti-carcinogenic, lipid metabolism regulation, anti-inflammatory, anti-obese and antioxidant activities of CLNA isomers. The available results may provide a potential application for CLNA isomers from natural sources, especially edible plant seeds, as effective functional food ingredients and dietary supplements for the above mentioned disease management. Further research, especially human randomized clinical trials, is warranted to investigate the detailed physiological effects, bioactivity and molecular mechanism of CLNA.

Combined transgenic expression of Punica granatum conjugase (FADX) and FAD2 desaturase in high linoleic acid Arabidopsis thaliana mutant leads to increased accumulation of punicic acid

Arabidopsis was engineered to produce 21.2 % punicic acid in the seed oil. Possible molecular factors limiting further accumulation of the conjugated fatty acid were investigated. Punicic acid (18:3Δ(9cis,11trans,13cis) ) is a conjugated linolenic acid isomer and is a main component of Punica granatum (pomegranate) seed oil. Medical studies have shown that punicic acid is a nutraceutical with anti-cancer and anti-obesity properties. It has been previously demonstrated that the conjugated double bonds in punicic acid are produced via the catalytic action of fatty acid conjugase (FADX), which is a homolog of the oleate desaturase. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of the Δ(12)-double bond of linoleic acid (18:2Δ(9cis,12cis) ) into conjugated Δ(11trans) and Δ(13cis) -double bonds. Previous attempts to produce punicic acid in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana seeds overexpressing P. granatum FADX resulted in a limited accumulation of punicic acid of up to 4.4 %, accompanied by increased accumulation of oleic acid (18:1∆(9cis) ), suggesting that production of punicic acid in some way inhibits the activity of oleate desaturase (Iwabuchi et al. 2003). In the current study, we applied a new strategy to enhance the production of punicic acid in a high linoleic acid A. thaliana fad3/fae1 mutant background using the combined expression of P. granatum FADX and FAD2. This approach led to the accumulation of punicic acid at the level of 21 % of total fatty acids and restored the natural proportion of oleic acid observed in the A. thaliana fad3/fae1 mutant. In addition, we provide new insights into the high oleate phenotype and describe factors limiting the production of punicic acid in genetically engineered plants.

Nanodispersions of monoglycerides of punicic acid: a potential nutrient precursor with higher oxidative stability and cytotoxicity

Amphiphilic monoglyceride of punicic acid was synthesized and further dispersed to global nanoparticle with 23 nm size in diameter. Such nanodispersions maintained the cytotoxicity and also showed higher oxidative stability, higher solubility in water at the same time.

Altered white adipose tissue protein profile in C57BL/6J mice displaying delipidative, inflammatory, and browning characteristics after bitter melon seed oil treatment

Objective

We have previously shown that bitter melon seed oil (BMSO), which is rich in cis-9, trans-11, trans-13 conjugated linolenic acid, is more potent than soybean oil in attenuating body fat deposition in high-fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mice. The aim of this study was to obtain a comprehensive insight into how white adipose tissue (WAT) is affected by BMSO administration and to explore the underlying mechanisms of the anti-adiposity effect of BMSO.

Methods and Results

A proteomic approach was used to identify proteins differentially expressed in the WAT of mice fed diets with or without BMSO for 11 wks. The WAT was also analyzed histologically for morphological changes. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (pH 4–7) revealed 32 spots showing a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) in intensity in BMSO-treated mice and 30 of these were shown to code for 23 proteins (15 increased and 8 decreased expression; >2-fold change). Combined with histological evidence of macrophage infiltration and brown adipocyte recruitment, the proteomic and immunoblotting data showed that the WAT in mice subjected to long-term high dose BMSO administration was characterized by reduced caveolae formation, increased ROS insult, tissue remodeling/repair, mitochondria uncoupling, and stabilization of the actin cytoskeleton, this last change being putatively related to an increased inflammatory response.

Conclusion

The anti-adiposity effect of BMSO is associated with WAT delipidation, inflammation, and browning. Some novel proteins participating in these processes were identified. In addition, the BMSO-mediated WAT browning may account for the increased inflammation without causing adverse metabolic effects.

Effects of pomegranate seed oil on glucose and lipid metabolism-related organs in rats fed an obesogenic diet

Studies conducted in mice have revealed positive effects of punicic acid (PUA). The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of PUA on fat accumulation and glycemic control in rats fed an obesogenic diet. Rats were randomly divided into two groups: control group and PUA group (diet supplemented with 0.5% PUA). No changes were observed in adipose tissue weights. The glucose tolerance test showed that the glycemic value in the PUA group had decreased significantly at the final time (120 min) (-19.3%), as had fructosamine levels (-11.1%). However, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) showed that insulin resistance did not improve. No changes were observed in the liver, skeletal muscle composition, or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) activation. Low levels (mg/g tissue) of PUA (0.04 ± 0.01 in both tissues) and higher levels of cis-9,trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid (0.31 ± 0.08 in liver, 0.52 ± 0.11 in muscle) were found. PUA supplementation induced hypoplasia (-16.1%) due to the antiproliferative effect on hepatocytes. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 0.5% PUA did not lead to decreased fat accumulation in adipose tissue, liver, or skeletal muscle, or to improved glycemic control. The hypoplasia induced in liver is a negative effect that should be considered before proposing PUA as a functional ingredient.

Bitter melon seed oil-attenuated body fat accumulation in diet-induced obese mice is associated with cAMP-dependent protein kinase activation and cell death in white adipose tissue

The aim of this study was to investigate the antiadiposity effect of bitter melon seed oil (BMSO), which is rich in the cis-9, trans-11, trans-13 isomer of conjugated linolenic acid. In Expt. 1, C57BL/6J mice were fed a butter-based, high-fat diet [HB; 29% butter + 1% soybean oil (SBO)] for 10 wk to induce obesity. They then continued to receive that diet or were switched to an SBO-based, high-fat diet alone (HS; 30% SBO) or containing bitter melon seed oil (BMSO) (HBM; 15% SBO + 15% BMSO) for 5 wk. The body fat percentage was significantly lower in mice fed the HBM diet (21%), but not the HS diet, compared with mice fed the HB diet. In Expt. 2, mice were fed an SBO-based, high-fat diet containing 0 (HS), 5 (LBM), 10 (MBM), or 15% (HBM) BMSO for 10 wk. In the LBM, MBM, and HBM groups, the body fat percentage was significantly lower by 32, 35, and 65%, respectively, compared with the HS control. The reduction in the HBM group was significantly greater than that in the LBM or MBM group. BMSO administration increased phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, cAMP-activated protein kinase (PKA), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in the white adipose tissue (WAT), suggesting that PKA and leptin signaling might be involved in the BMSO-mediated reduction in lipogenesis and increase in thermogenesis and lipolysis. However, compared with the HS control, the HBM group had a significantly higher TNFα concentration in the WAT accompanied by TUNEL-positive nuclei. We conclude that BMSO is effective in attenuating body fat accumulation through mechanisms associated with PKA activation and programmed cell death in the WAT, but safety concerns need to be carefully addressed.

Uptake of conjugated linolenic acids and conversion to cis-9, trans-11-or trans-9, trans-11-conjugated linoleic acids in Caco-2 cells

Dietary oils containing large amounts of conjugated linolenic acids (CLnA) may be regarded as a source of conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), which have been suspected to bear health-promoting properties. Indeed, CLnA can be converted into CLA in mammals. The objective of the present study was to investigate the uptake of CLnA and their metabolism into CLA in Caco-2 cells, as a validated in vitro model of the intestinal barrier. Caco-2 cells were incubated for 24 h in the presence of either α-eleostearic, β-eleostearic, catalpic or punicic acid. We first observed that Caco-2 cells take these CLnA up at different rates and then convert them but with varying efficiency depending on the structure of the Δ13 double bond. Finally, the distribution of CLnA between neutral lipids (NL) and phospholipids appeared to be linked to their number of trans double bonds: the higher the number, the higher the accumulation in the NL fraction.

cis-9, trans-11, trans-13-Conjugated linolenic acid induces apoptosis and sustained ERK phosphorylation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the adipogenic effect of cis-9, trans-11, trans-13-conjugated linolenic acid (c9,t11,t13-CLN), a fatty acid naturally present in bitter melon.

METHODS

The 3T3-L1 murine preadipocyte cell line was used to test the effect of saponifiables from whole bitter melon and of commercially prepared pure c9,t11,t13-CLN on adipocyte differentiation. The effect of c9,t11,t13-CLN on 3T3-L1 cell viability was also tested at proliferation, mitotic clonal expansion, and terminal differentiation stages.

RESULTS

Compared to the free fatty acid control mixture, the proadipogenic effect on 3T3-L1 was less potent using saponifiables obtained from bitter melon. C9,t11,t13-CLN, unlike its non-conjugated counterpart linolenic acid (LN) or other common fatty acids such as oleic acid or linoleic acid, exerted no proadipogenic effect on 3T3-L1. In contrast to LN displaying no cytotoxic effect at a concentration ≤100 μM, c9,t11,t13-CLN caused a dose-dependent reduction in the viability of pre- and postconfluent preadipocytes associated with apoptosis. Sustained ERK/MAPK activation, accompanied by increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ phosphorylation, was seen in c9,t11,t13-CLN-treated cells at initiation of differentiation.

CONCLUSION

C9,t11,t13-CLN is less adipogenic for 3T3-L1 cells than LN and this is partly due to its apoptotic effect on proliferating preadipocytes and to the sustained ERK phosphorylation seen during mitotic clonal expansion.

Production of a conjugated fatty acid by Bifidobacterium breve LMC520 from α-linolenic acid: conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA)

This study was performed to characterize natural CLnA isomer production by Bifidobacterium breve LMC520 of human origin in comparison to conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) production. B. breve LMC520 was found to be highly active in terms of CLnA production, of which the major portion was identified as cis-9,trans-11,cis-15 CLnA isomer by GC-MS and NMR analysis. B. breve LMC520 was incubated for 48 h using MRS medium (containing 0.05% L-cysteine · HCl) under different environmental conditions such as atmosphere, pH, and substrate concentration. The high conversion rate of α-linolenic acid (α-LNA) to CLnA (99%) was retained up to 2 mM α-LNA, and the production was proportionally increased nearly 7-fold with 8 mM by the 6 h of incubation under anaerobic conditions at a wide range of pH values (between 5 and 9). When α-LNA was compared with linoleic acid (LA) as a substrate for isomerization by B. breve LMC520, the conversion of α-LNA was higher than that of LA. These results demonstrated that specific CLnA isomer could be produced through active bacterial conversion at an optimized condition. Because many conjugated octadecatrienoic acids in nature are shown to play many positive roles, the noble isomer found in this study has potential as a functional source.

Effect of pomegranate seed oil on serum TNF-α level in dyslipidemic patients

Pomegranate punicic acid and pomegranate fruit extracts have the potential effects in inhibiting tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) consumption on serum TNF-α level in dyslipidemic patients. Fifty-one subjects with serum total cholesterol concentration >200 mg/dl and serum triglyceride concentrations >150 mg/dl were randomly assigned into the PSO (n = 25) and placebo (n = 26) groups. Subjects were given 400 mg PSO or placebo capsules twice daily for 4 weeks. Six patients were excluded because of complications or lack of compliance. Serum TNF-α level was measured at baseline and after 4 weeks. Mean (SD) serum concentration of TNF-α decreased from 14.73 ± 5.25 to 13.28 ± 3.79 pg/ml in the PSO group (P = NS). Corresponding values in the placebo group were 12.46 ± 1.67 versus 13.14 ± 1.67 pg/ml (P = NS). In conclusion, administration of PSO in dyslipidemic patients does not affect the serum TNF-α.