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The effect of Chlamydia pneumoniae infection on serum lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Lawson JS, Glenn WK. Infection and food combine to cause atherosclerotic coronary heart disease - Review and hypothesis. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2021; 35:100807. [PMID: 34286061 PMCID: PMC8273202 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2021.100807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS It is hypothesised that a combination of childhood and later life infections and excess food consumption, particularly of Western style food, initiates and contributes to atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. To consider this hypothesis we have conducted a brief review of the role of childhood infections, food, and their combined influence on atherosclerosis. EVIDENCE (i) Studies of populations with high prevalence of infections and low "hunter gather" like food consumption, have extremely low prevalence of atherosclerosis, (ii) there are consistent associations between infections in childhood and adult atherosclerotic coronary heart disease, (iii) there is an association between increased body weight, (an indication of excess eating), and atherosclerotic heart disease, and (iv) there is evidence that a combination of increased body weight and infections influences the development of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease.Infections do not appear to act independently to cause atherosclerosis. A combination of both food and infection appears to be required to cause atheroma. CONCLUSION The hypothesis that infections when combined with excess eating initiates atherosclerosis, is plausible. ACTION Action aimed at prevention of atherosclerotic heart disease is possible. There are three safe approaches to prevention (i) encouragement of Mediterranean like diets, (ii) avoidance of overeating and (iii) vigorous control of infections among all age groups. There is a need to monitor patients with a history of serious childhood infections and poor nutrition. In addition, for high risk subjects, cholesterol lowering statins are of proven and safe value.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S. Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Wendy K. Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Alzheimer's disease might depend on enabling pathogens which do not necessarily cross the blood-brain barrier. Med Hypotheses 2019; 125:129-136. [PMID: 30902141 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.02.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The development of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) might reflect, in its acquired aspects, a cooperative pathogenesis whereby infectious enablers which do not necessarily cross the blood-brain barrier augment the invasive properties of a less virulent organism, thus enabling it to infect the brain. An example interaction is described which involves Chlamydia species, Human papillomavirus (HPV), microbiota, and yeast, where yeast is a pathogen of low virulence which crosses the blood-brain barrier. The cooperative pathogenesis begins at the mucosal epithelium. Infection by Chlamydia, HPV, or dysbiosis of commensal bacteria disrupts the integrity of the mucosal epithelium, thereby allowing colonizing yeast to penetrate the epithelial barrier and enter into the bloodstream. Chlamydia and enabling commensals promote insulin resistance, which provides yeast with glucose and also sets the stage for accumulation of amyloid beta protein (ABP). Meanwhile, HPV-induced and hyperglycemia-induced immunological changes enable the spread of newly invasive yeast to the brain, where the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to yeast promotes production of ABP. Chlamydia also cross reacts with Candida species, which may stimulate further brain inflammation in response to Candida and may augment production of ABP thereby The yeast's less virulent origins, coupled with immune modulation by enablers, might explain why AD as a model of infectious encephalitis is always slow and insidious rather than occasionally febrile, accompanied by seizures, or marked by signs of meningeal inflammation.
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HAINER V, ZAMRAZILOVÁ H, KUNEŠOVÁ M, BENDLOVÁ B, ALDHOON-HAINEROVÁ I. Obesity and Infection: Reciprocal Causality. Physiol Res 2015; 64:S105-19. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Associations between different infectious agents and obesity have been reported in humans for over thirty years. In many cases, as in nosocomial infections, this relationship reflects the greater susceptibility of obese individuals to infection due to impaired immunity. In such cases, the infection is not related to obesity as a causal factor but represents a complication of obesity. In contrast, several infections have been suggested as potential causal factors in human obesity. However, evidence of a causal linkage to human obesity has only been provided for adenovirus 36 (Adv36). This virus activates lipogenic and proinflammatory pathways in adipose tissue, improves insulin sensitivity, lipid profile and hepatic steatosis. The E4orf1 gene of Adv36 exerts insulin senzitizing effects, but is devoid of its pro-inflammatory modalities. The development of a vaccine to prevent Adv36-induced obesity or the use of E4orf1 as a ligand for novel antidiabetic drugs could open new horizons in the prophylaxis and treatment of obesity and diabetes. More experimental and clinical studies are needed to elucidate the mutual relations between infection and obesity, identify additional infectious agents causing human obesity, as well as define the conditions that predispose obese individuals to specific infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. HAINER
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
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Hegde V, Dhurandhar N. Microbes and obesity—interrelationship between infection, adipose tissue and the immune system. Clin Microbiol Infect 2013; 19:314-20. [DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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García-Elorriaga G, Rey-Pineda GD. Human immunodeficiency virus, atherosclerosis and Chlamydophila pneumoniae. World J Clin Infect Dis 2012; 2:54-62. [DOI: 10.5495/wjcid.v2.i4.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydophila pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) is an obligate, intracellular bacterium associated with a wide variety of acute and chronic diseases. C. pneumoniae infection is characterized by persistence and immunopathological damage to host target tissues, including the lung. Over the past 20 years, a variety of studies have investigated a possible link between C. pneumoniae infection and atherosclerosis, because of its role in all stages of atherosclerosis, from initial inflammatory lesions to plaque rupture. In the current highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era, many human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients are experiencing health problems that accompany the aging process, mainly the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There is renewed interest in a link between atherosclerotic CVD and as yet poorly defined environmental exposures, including infectious agents. On the one hand, the patient with HIV and lipodystrophy caused by HAART and exacerbated by C. pneumoniae infection could be a factor of risk for atherosclerosis. An assessment of the therapy against C. pneumoniae and HAART should always be conducted. It is advisable that HIV-acquired immune deficiency syndrome patients undergo a serological test to determine exposure to C. pneumoniae and to assess treatment options. On the other hand, in patients with a positive serology to C. pneumoniae, an increment of the body mass index has been found; therefore, it is probable that the recurrent infection may play an important role in creating adverse endothelial conditions allowing the infection by C. pneumoniae in its chronic form, to damage the endothelial surface. Vascular studies would be necessary for corroboration.
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Dhurandhar NV. A framework for identification of infections that contribute to human obesity. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2012; 11:963-9. [PMID: 22115071 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(11)70274-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
WHO has declared obesity to be a global epidemic. Obesity management strategies mainly target behavioural components of the disorder, but are only marginally effective. A comprehensive understanding of the causative factors of obesity might provide more effective management approaches. Several microbes are causatively and correlatively linked with obesity in animals and human beings. If infections contribute to human obesity, then entirely different prevention and treatment strategies and public health policies could be needed to address this subtype of the disorder. Ethical reasons preclude experimental infection of human beings with candidate microbes to unequivocally determine their contribution to obesity. As an alternative, the available information about the adipogenic human adenovirus Ad36 has been used to create a template that can be used to examine comprehensively the contributions of specific candidate microbes to human obesity. Clinicians should be aware of infectobesity (obesity of infectious origin), and its potential importance in effective obesity management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil V Dhurandhar
- Infection and Obesity Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA.
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A pilot study on the association between double positive Chlamydia pneumoniae serology and serum lipid indices alterations in obese adult females. Life Sci 2011; 89:854-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2011.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2011] [Revised: 07/30/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Chlamydophila pneumoniae antibodies may be independently associated with increased BMI and percentage of body fat among women. Int J Obes (Lond) 2011; 35:1225-32. [PMID: 21206480 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2010.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the potential association between Chlamydophila pneumoniae infection and obesity indicators after controlling for nutrient and energy intake, as well as age, smoking status, physical activity and educational level. SUBJECTS A total of 118 healthy adult females randomly recruited from the local community of Bydgoszcz, aged 20-80 years. METHODS Serum was tested for specific IgG antibodies against C. pneumoniae using qualitative enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Usual dietary intake was assessed by a 7-day food record. Information regarding smoking, physical activity and educational level was collected using the questionnaire. Body mass index (BMI) and percentage of total body fat (%FM) were calculated respectively, as weight (kilograms) divided by height (meters) squared and with the equations of Durnin and Womersley. RESULTS The prevalence of C. pneumoniae infection was significantly higher among overweight/obese subjects (77.1 vs 60.0%; P=0.047) in comparison with normal-weight individuals. Using multivariate regression analysis, a significant positive association of BMI (β=0.194; P=0.036) and %FM (β=0.176; P=0.049) with C. pneumoniae IgG antibody positivity was found after adjustment for age, total energy intake, percentage of energy from fat, carbohydrate and protein, physical activity, educational level and smoking habits. Moreover, the multivariable adjusted odds ratio of being overweight/obese for the seropositive group compared with seronegative individuals was 1.70 (95% confidence interval: 1.02-2.89; P=0.037). CONCLUSION The results indicated that C. pneumoniae infection may be associated with a risk of becoming overweight/developing obesity independently of dietary and lifestyle factors.
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Chlamydia antibodies and self-reported symptoms of oligo-amenorrhea and hirsutism: a new etiologic factor in polycystic ovary syndrome? Fertil Steril 2010; 94:1799-804. [PMID: 19931073 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2009] [Revised: 10/09/2009] [Accepted: 10/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the systemic inflammation induced by chlamydial infections might be associated with symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). DESIGN Nested case-control study. SETTING A questionnaire including questions about hirsutism and oligo-amenorrhea was distributed to a representative sample of women (at age 31) from the general population-based Northern Finland Birth Cohort. Those who reported both symptoms were defined as symptomatic (n=81). PATIENT(S) A representative sample of women (at age 31) from the general population-based Northern Finland Birth Cohort. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) To test the presence of serum antibodies to Chlamydia pneumoniae (IgG titers ≥32) and Chlamydia trachomatis (IgG titers ≥8) by microimmunofluorescence in symptomatic and control women. RESULT(S) Antibodies were investigated in 79 symptomatic and 1427 control women (C. pneumoniae) and in 79 symptomatic and 425 control women (C trachomatis). C. trachomatis antibodies (odds ratio [OR], 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-4.6) and C. pneumoniae antibodies (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0-2.4) were more commonly present in symptomatic women, and the simultaneous presence of elevated highly sensitive C-reactive protein levels strengthened this association. CONCLUSION(S) Chronic inflammation, which is associated with chlamydial infections, could contribute to the pathogenetic processes that lead to the metabolic and hormonal disorders of PCOS.
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Wang CM, Kaltenboeck B. Exacerbation of chronic inflammatory diseases by infectious agents: Fact or fiction? World J Diabetes 2010; 1:27-35. [PMID: 21537425 PMCID: PMC3083881 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v1.i2.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2009] [Revised: 03/27/2010] [Accepted: 04/03/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases caused by obesity represent critical public health concerns worldwide. In these diseases such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes and atherosclerosis, adipose tissue acts as an endocrine organ that releases large quantities of inflammatory mediators into circulation. Besides classically recognized effectors on the development of obesity and resultant conditions, infection has attracted attention as an enhancer of chronic inflammatory diseases. Infectious diseases have long been associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes and atherosclerosis. However, the infectious hypothesis for chronic inflammatory diseases has been challenged by inconclusive clinical trials. Nevertheless, the large body of evidence accumulated over decades on the association of infectious diseases with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease should not be disregarded. Instead, re-formulation of hypotheses of the mechanisms by which microbes affect obesity-associated diseases may be required with an emphasis on the early events in the progression of such diseases and the multifactorial nature of pathogen-host interactions. This review focuses on pathogens that directly promote obesity and on pathogens that cause chronic infections and thereby enhance metabolic diseases in obese patients. A new perspective on the interaction between infections and obesity-related diseases may improve management of chronic inflammatory diseases that rank high among global threats to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Ming Wang
- Cheng-Ming Wang, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies
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Chlamydia pneumoniae infection is associated with elevated body mass index in young men. Epidemiol Infect 2009; 138:1267-73. [PMID: 20018131 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268809991452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia pneumoniae infection is said to be associated with obesity. We studied the association between C. pneumoniae infection and inflammation and increased BMI in 891 Finnish military recruits. IgG seropositivity in arrival and departure serum samples during 6-12 months of military service was considered as persistence of antibodies and a possible indication of chronic infection. Persistently high C-reactive protein (CRP) level (elevated on arrival and departure) (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.9), and persistent C. pneumoniae antibodies (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5-2.8) were significant risk factors for overweight (BMI 25 kg/m2). In addition, those who had persistent antibodies and persistently elevated CRP levels, or those who had either of them, had a significantly higher BMI (kg/m2) compared to those who had neither of them (25.8 vs. 24.6 vs. 23.5, respectively; P<0.001). These results provide new information about the association between possible chronic C. pneumoniae infection and obesity in young men.
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Broderick MP, Hansen CJ, Irvine M, Metzgar D, Campbell K, Baker C, Russell KL. Adenovirus 36 seropositivity is strongly associated with race and gender, but not obesity, among US military personnel. Int J Obes (Lond) 2009; 34:302-8. [PMID: 19901952 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2009.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several studies have shown a positive association between evidence of anti-adenovirus 36 (Ad-36) antibodies (Ad-36 exposure) and (1) obesity and (2) serum cholesterol in animals, there is limited research demonstrating this association in humans. There is also limited research on transmission, presentation and demographics of Ad-36 infection. DESIGN (1) Body mass (body mass index (BMI)), (2) fasting serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels and (3) demographic characteristics were compared between Ad-36 seropositive and seronegative groups. The majority of subjects were matched as cases versus controls on a number of demographic variables. SUBJECTS A total of 150 obese and 150 lean active-duty military personnel were studied. MEASUREMENTS Subjects completed a questionnaire regarding demographic and behavioral characteristics. Subject serum samples were tested by serum neutralization assay for the presence of anti-Ad-36 antibodies. RESULTS In all, 34% of obese and 39% of lean subjects had Ad-36 exposure, an insignificant difference. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly higher among the obese subjects than among the lean, but there were no associations between serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels and Ad-36 exposure. Positive associations were found between Ad-36 exposure and age, race and gender. CONCLUSION The study stands in contrast to previous work that has shown a positive relationship between Ad-36 exposure and (1) obesity, and (2) levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides. In this study there was no association in either case. Unanticipated relationships between Ad-36 exposure and age, race and gender were found, and this is the first time that such a link between Ad-36 exposure and demographics has been found.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Broderick
- Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92186-5122, USA.
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McAllister EJ, Dhurandhar NV, Keith SW, Aronne LJ, Barger J, Baskin M, Benca RM, Biggio J, Boggiano MM, Eisenmann JC, Elobeid M, Fontaine KR, Gluckman P, Hanlon EC, Katzmarzyk P, Pietrobelli A, Redden DT, Ruden DM, Wang C, Waterland RA, Wright SM, Allison DB. Ten putative contributors to the obesity epidemic. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2009; 49:868-913. [PMID: 19960394 PMCID: PMC2932668 DOI: 10.1080/10408390903372599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The obesity epidemic is a global issue and shows no signs of abating, while the cause of this epidemic remains unclear. Marketing practices of energy-dense foods and institutionally-driven declines in physical activity are the alleged perpetrators for the epidemic, despite a lack of solid evidence to demonstrate their causal role. While both may contribute to obesity, we call attention to their unquestioned dominance in program funding and public efforts to reduce obesity, and propose several alternative putative contributors that would benefit from equal consideration and attention. Evidence for microorganisms, epigenetics, increasing maternal age, greater fecundity among people with higher adiposity, assortative mating, sleep debt, endocrine disruptors, pharmaceutical iatrogenesis, reduction in variability of ambient temperatures, and intrauterine and intergenerational effects as contributing factors to the obesity epidemic are reviewed herein. While the evidence is strong for some contributors such as pharmaceutical-induced weight gain, it is still emerging for other reviewed factors. Considering the role of such putative etiological factors of obesity may lead to comprehensive, cause specific, and effective strategies for prevention and treatment of this global epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J McAllister
- Department of Infections and Obesity, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
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Lajunen T, Vikatmaa P, Bloigu A, Ikonen T, Lepäntalo M, Pussinen PJ, Saikku P, Leinonen M. Chlamydial LPS and high-sensitivity CRP levels in serum are associated with an elevated body mass index in patients with cardiovascular disease. Innate Immun 2009; 14:375-82. [PMID: 19039061 DOI: 10.1177/1753425908099172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Seropositivity for Chlamydia pneumoniae has been associated with an elevated body mass index (BMI). Our aim was to study if serum chlamydial lipopolysaccharide (cLPS), C. pneumoniae antibodies and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels are associated with BMI. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study population consisted of 174 patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm or occlusive aortic disease. Information on BMI, diabetes, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, and statin medication was available. Serum C. pneumoniae IgG and IgA antibodies, cLPS, hsCRP and total endotoxin activity (totLPS) were measured. RESULTS BMI correlated with cLPS (r = 0.197; P < 0.01) and with hsCRP (rho = 0.195; P < 0.01); in addition, there was a positive correlation between cLPS and hsCRP (rho = 0.499; P < 0.01). A trend of an increasing proportion of C. pneumoniae IgG positivity (titre > or = 64; P = 0.018) and higher serum cLPS (P = 0.01) and hsCRP (P = 0.01) concentrations was observed across the BMI groups (BMI < or = 24.9 kg/m(2), BMI = 25.0-29.9 kg/m(2), and BMI > or = 30.0 kg/m(2)). Among the three BMI groups, 24.6%, 38.8%, and 48.3% were C. pneumoniae IgG-positive and the median (IQR) cLPS concentrations (ng/ml) of the groups were: 92.6 (50.8-167.0), 128.9 (76.4-163.9), and 146.4 (105.8-175.8), respectively. The median (IQR) hsCRP (mg/l) concentrations of the groups were: 1.70 (0.70-3.05) 1.70 (0.80-5.20), and 3.40 (1.45-8.55), respectively. These associations remained statistically significant in a multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS Elevated serum cLPS levels were associated with an elevated BMI. This is a novel finding and it strengthens the link between chlamydial infection and obesity. A lack of association between totLPS and BMI suggests that the association between infection and an elevated BMI may be specific to certain pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taina Lajunen
- Respiratory Infection Unit, National Public Health Institute, Oulu, Finland.
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Thjodleifsson B, Olafsson I, Gislason D, Gislason T, Jögi R, Janson C. Infections and obesity: A multinational epidemiological study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 40:381-6. [PMID: 17943636 DOI: 10.1080/00365540701708293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Viral infections have been associated with the aetiology of obesity in animal models. This study investigates the association between 7 serological markers of infections and body mass index (BMI) in a population based sample. Individuals (n=985, mean age 42+/-97 (28-55) y, mean BMI 25.594.2) from Iceland, Sweden and Estonia underwent a structured interview and blood sampling. IgG antibodies were measured against Helicobacter pylori and the cagA protein, hepatitis A virus, Toxoplasma gondii, herpes simplex virus 1, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus. High-sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured as a marker of systemic inflammation. A significant positive association between being overweight (BMI25 kg/m2) and IgG antibodies was found for Helicobacter pylori (OR 1.86, CI 1.34-2.60) and Chlamydia pneumoniae (OR 1.39, CI 1.03-1.88) and combined seropositivity had synergistic effect (OR 2.54 (1.62-3.97)). CRP was positively related to BMI (pB0.0001), whereas no significant association was found between CRP and IgG antibodies against Helicobacter pylori and/or Chlamydia pneumoniae and CRP. The results suggest that infections with Chlamydia pneumoniae and Helicobacter pylori are both significantly and synergistically associated with overweight and this association is not related to indicators of systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjarni Thjodleifsson
- Department of Medicine, Landspitali University Hospital Hringbraut, IS-101, Reykjavik, Iceland.
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The association between past Chlamydia pneumoniae infection and markers of chronic inflammation in obese women. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2008; 27:415-21. [DOI: 10.1007/s10096-007-0446-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 12/10/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Pasarica M, Dhurandhar NV. Infectobesity: Obesity of Infectious Origin. ADVANCES IN FOOD AND NUTRITION RESEARCH 2007; 52:61-102. [PMID: 17425944 DOI: 10.1016/s1043-4526(06)52002-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The rapid increase in obesity and the associated health care costs have prompted a search for better approaches for its prevention and management. Such efforts may be facilitated by better understanding the etiology of obesity. Of the several etiological factors, infection, an unusual causative factor, has recently started receiving greater attention. In the last two decades, 10 adipogenic pathogens were reported, including human and nonhuman viruses, scrapie agents, bacteria, and gut microflora. Some of these pathogens are associated with human obesity, but their causative role in human obesity has not been established. This chapter presents information about the natural hosts, signs and symptoms, and pathogenesis of the adipogenic microorganisms. If relevant to humans, "Infectobesity" would be a relatively novel, yet extremely significant concept. A new perspective about the infectious etiology of obesity may stimulate additional research to assess the contribution of hitherto unknown pathogens to human obesity and possibly to prevent or treat obesity of infectious origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Pasarica
- Department of Infections and Obesity, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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Engström G, Hedblad B, Janzon L, Lindgärde F. Weight gain in relation to plasma levels of complement factor 3: results from a population-based cohort study. Diabetologia 2005; 48:2525-31. [PMID: 16283247 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-005-0021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2005] [Accepted: 07/28/2005] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Mice that are deficient for complement factor 3 (C3) have shown resistance to weight gain, despite increased food intake. Cross-sectional studies of humans have reported correlations between C3 and obesity. This longitudinal study explored whether C3 predicts a large weight gain in middle-aged men. METHODS Plasma concentrations of C3 and complement factor 4 (C4) were measured in 2,706 non-diabetic healthy men aged between 38 and 50 years, who were re-examined after a mean period of 6.1 years. RESULTS After adjustments for initial weight, age, height and follow-up time, the odds of incurring large weight gain (75th percentile, > or =3.8 kg) were 1.00 (reference), 0.96 (95% CI:0.7-1.2), 1.1 (CI:0.9-1.5) and 1.4 (CI:1.1-1.8), respectively, among men with C3 levels in the first, second, third and fourth quartiles (p for trend=0.01) respectively. This relationship remained significant after further adjustments for lifestyle factors (physical inactivity, alcohol, smoking), metabolic factors (glucose or homeostasis model assessment values, cholesterol, triglycerides), inflammatory markers (fibrinogen, haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, orosomucoid, alpha1-antitrypsin) and for C4. C4 was associated with weight gain after adjustments for initial weight, height, follow-up time and lifestyle factors, but not after adjustments for C3. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION C3 is a risk factor for incurring large weight gain in middle-aged men.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Engström
- Department of Clinical Sciences MFC Ing 59 Lund University, Malmö University Hospital, S-20502, Malmö, Sweden.
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Blanc P, Corsi AM, Gabbuti A, Peduzzi C, Meacci F, Olivieri F, Lauretani F, Francesco M, Ferrucci L. Chlamydia Pneumoniae Seropositivity and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: The InCHIANTI Study. J Am Geriatr Soc 2004; 52:1626-31. [PMID: 15450037 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2004.52453.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence of Chlamydia pneumoniae (CP) seropositivity and test the hypothesis that CP infection (CPI) is associated with cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and levels of inflammatory biomarkers. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Representative sample of the residents of Greve in Chianti and Bagno a Ripoli, two small towns located in the Chianti geographic area (Tuscany, Italy). PARTICIPANTS A total of 1,304 (age-range: 20-103, 79% aged> or =65) participants of the InCHIANTI study. MEASUREMENTS CP seropositivity was assessed using immunofluorescence. Previous CPI was defined as immunoglobulin (Ig) G > or =1/16 and <1/256, and recent CPI was defined as IgG > or =1/512 or IgM > or =1/16. Inflammatory markers included interleukin (IL)-6, soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6r), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-1beta, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), iron, ferritin, and C-reactive protein (CRP). CV risk factors included smoking, body mass index (BMI), lipid profile, and hypertension. RESULTS The prevalence of CP seropositivity was 75%, increased with age, and was higher in men than in women (P<.01). CPI was not associated with IL-1beta, IL-1ra, iron, ferritin, CRP, BMI, lipids, and smoking. After adjusting for age and sex, previous or recent CPI was associated with higher TNF-alpha (P<.01), IL-6 (P<.03), sIL-6R (P<.01), and hypertension (P<.02). In additional age and sex-adjusted models, the associations between CPI and TNF-alpha, IL-6, sIL-6r, and hypertension appeared to be mutually independent. CONCLUSION CP seropositivity is highly prevalent in the older population and is a significant, independent correlate of hypertension and circulating levels of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and sIL-6r.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Blanc
- Infectious Diseases Section, Hospital SS Annunziata, Florence, Italy
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Pitiriga VC, Kotsis VT, Papamichail CM, Alexandrou MEK, Lekakis JP, Kokolakis N, Petrocheilou-Paschou VD, Zakopoulos NA. High prevalence of Chlamydia pneumoniae antibodies in white-coat hypertensives. Atherosclerosis 2003; 167:231-5. [PMID: 12818405 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(02)00426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have linked essential sustained hypertension with Chlamydia pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) and changes in intima-media thickness (IMT) of carotid arteries. The aim of this study was to examine if similar associations exist in subjects with white-coat hypertension. C. pneumoniae IgA and IgG antibody titers were measured in 125 patients with white-coat hypertension and 54 normotensives. All participants underwent a 24 h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring, clinic BP readings and common-internal carotid artery IMT measurements. Seventy subjects of the white-coat group (56%) and 15 of the control group (27.8%) had IgG titers >/=80 (crosstabs; P<0.001). IgA titers were elevated in 75 subjects of the white-coat group (60%) and 10 (18.5%) of the control group (crosstabs; P<0.001). The IMT of the carotid arteries in the white-coat group was significantly higher than that of the normotensive group (t-test; P<0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). In contrast, carotid IMT did not differ between C. pneumoniae-seropositive and C. pneumoniae-seronegative groups concerning both IgG and IgA antibody titers. Our findings suggest that both C. pneumoniae antibody titers and carotid IMT were increased in subjects with white-coat hypertension. The preceding associations strengthen prior evidence in favor of the opinion that white-coat hypertension is not an innocent phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassiliki C Pitiriga
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, National and Kapodistrial University, Vas. Sofias and Lourou Str., Athens 11528, Greece
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Affiliation(s)
- N V Dhurandhar
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science and the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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