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Bagheripour F, Jeddi S, Kashfi K, Ghasemi A. Anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects of L-citrulline are sex-dependent. Life Sci 2024; 339:122432. [PMID: 38237764 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects of L-citrulline (Cit) have been reported in male rats. This study determined sex differences in response to Cit in Wistar rats. MAIN METHODS Type 2 diabetes (T2D) was induced using a high-fat diet followed by low-dose of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg) injection. Male and female Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 6/group): Control, control+Cit, T2D, and T2D + Cit. Cit (4 g/L in drinking water) was administered for 8 weeks. Obesity indices were recorded, serum fasting glucose and lipid profile were measured, and glucose and pyruvate tolerance tests were performed during the Cit intervention. White (WAT) and brown (BAT) adipose tissues were weighted, and the adiposity index was calculated at the end of the study. KEY FINDINGS Cit was more effective in decreasing fasting glucose (18 % vs. 11 %, P = 0.0100), triglyceride (20 % vs. 14 %, P = 0.0173), and total cholesterol (16 % vs. 11 %, P = 0.0200) as well as decreasing gluconeogenesis and improving glucose tolerance, in females compared to male rats with T2D. Following Cit administration, decreases in WAT weight (16 % vs. 14 % for gonadal, 21 % vs. 16 % for inguinal, and 18 % vs. 13 % for retroperitoneal weight, all P < 0.0001) and increases in BAT weight (58 % vs. 19 %, for interscapular and 10 % vs. 7 % for axillary, all P < 0.0001) were higher in females than male rats with T2D. The decrease in adiposity index was also higher (11 % vs. 9 %, P = 0.0007) in females. SIGNIFICANCE The anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects of Cit in rats are sex-dependent, with Cit being more effective in female than male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Bagheripour
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Jeddi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrow Kashfi
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, City University of New York School of Medicine, NY, USA.
| | - Asghar Ghasemi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Rajcic D, Kromm F, Hernández-Arriaga A, Brandt A, Baumann A, Staltner R, Camarinha-Silva A, Bergheim I. Supplementing L-Citrulline Can Extend Lifespan in C. elegans and Attenuate the Development of Aging-Related Impairments of Glucose Tolerance and Intestinal Barrier in Mice. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1579. [PMID: 38002262 PMCID: PMC10669166 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
L-Citrulline (L-Cit) is discussed to possess a protective effect on intestinal barrier dysfunction but also to diminish aging-associated degenerative processes. Here, the effects of L-Cit on lifespan were assessed in C. elegans, while the effects of L-Cit on aging-associated decline were determined in C57BL/6J mice. For lifespan analysis, C. elegans were treated with ±5 mM L-Cit. Twelve-month-old male C57BL/6J mice (n = 8-10/group) fed a standard chow diet received drinking water ± 2.5 g/kg/d L-Cit or 5 g/kg/d hydrolyzed soy protein (Iso-N-control) for 16 or 32 weeks. Additionally, 4-month-old C57BL/6J mice were treated accordingly for 8 weeks. Markers of senescence, glucose tolerance, intestinal barrier function, and intestinal microbiota composition were analyzed in mice. L-Cit treatment significantly extended the lifespan of C. elegans. The significant increase in markers of senescence and signs of impaired glucose tolerance found in 16- and 20-month-old control mice was attenuated in L-Cit-fed mice, which was associated with protection from intestinal barrier dysfunction and a decrease in NO2- levels in the small intestine, while no marked differences in intestinal microbiota composition were found when comparing age-matched groups. Our results suggest that pharmacological doses of L-Cit may have beneficial effects on lifespan in C. elegans and aging-associated decline in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Rajcic
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Kromm
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Annette Brandt
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anja Baumann
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Raphaela Staltner
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Amélia Camarinha-Silva
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany (A.C.-S.)
| | - Ina Bergheim
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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3
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Du J, Gan M, Xie Z, Zhou C, Jing Y, Li M, Liu C, Wang M, Dai H, Huang Z, Chen L, Zhao Y, Niu L, Wang Y, Zhang S, Guo Z, Shen L, Zhu L. Effects of dietary L-Citrulline supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, and fecal microbial composition in finishing pigs. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1209389. [PMID: 37608954 PMCID: PMC10442155 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1209389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota play an important role in the gut ecology and development of pigs, which is always regulated by nutrients. This study investigated the effect of L-Citrulline on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and its potential regulatory mechanism. The results showed that 1% dietary L-Citrulline supplementation for 52 days significantly increased final weight, liveweight gain, carcass weight, and average backfat and markedly decreased drip loss (p < 0.05) of finishing pigs compared with the control group. Microbial analysis of fecal samples revealed a marked increase in α-diversity and significantly altered composition of gut microbiota in finishing pigs in response to L-Citrulline. In particular, these altered gut microbiota at the phylum and genus level may be mainly involved in the metabolic process of carbohydrate, energy, and amino acid, and exhibited a significant association with final weight, carcass weight, and backfat thickness. Taken together, our data revealed the potential role of L-Citrulline in the modulation of growth performance, carcass characteristics, and the meat quality of finishing pigs, which is most likely associated with gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhua Du
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mailin Gan
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhongwei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengpeng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunhong Jing
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Menglin Li
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haodong Dai
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lili Niu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shunhua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zongyi Guo
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Linyuan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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Yu T, Wang L, Zhang L, Deuster PA. Mitochondrial Fission as a Therapeutic Target for Metabolic Diseases: Insights into Antioxidant Strategies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1163. [PMID: 37371893 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial fission is a crucial process in maintaining metabolic homeostasis in normal physiology and under conditions of stress. Its dysregulation has been associated with several metabolic diseases, including, but not limited to, obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and cardiovascular diseases. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve a vital role in the genesis of these conditions, and mitochondria are both the main sites of ROS production and the primary targets of ROS. In this review, we explore the physiological and pathological roles of mitochondrial fission, its regulation by dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), and the interplay between ROS and mitochondria in health and metabolic diseases. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies of targeting mitochondrial fission through antioxidant treatments for ROS-induced conditions, including the effects of lifestyle interventions, dietary supplements, and chemicals, such as mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1) and other mitochondrial fission inhibitors, as well as certain commonly used drugs for metabolic diseases. This review highlights the importance of understanding the role of mitochondrial fission in health and metabolic diseases, and the potential of targeting mitochondrial fission as a therapeutic approach to protecting against these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzheng Yu
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Department of Pathology, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Lei Zhang
- Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Patricia A Deuster
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Bagheripour F, Jeddi S, Kashfi K, Ghasemi A. Metabolic effects of L-citrulline in type 2 diabetes. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 237:e13937. [PMID: 36645144 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing worldwide. Decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability is involved in the pathophysiology of T2D and its complications. L-citrulline (Cit), a precursor of NO production, has been suggested as a novel therapeutic agent for T2D. Available data from human and animal studies indicate that Cit supplementation in T2D increases circulating levels of Cit and L-arginine while decreasing circulating glucose and free fatty acids and improving dyslipidemia. The underlying mechanisms for these beneficial effects of Cit include increased insulin secretion from the pancreatic β cells, increased glucose uptake by the skeletal muscle, as well as increased lipolysis and β-oxidation, and decreased glyceroneogenesis in the adipose tissue. Thus, Cit has antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and antioxidant effects and has the potential to be used as a new therapeutic agent in the management of T2D. This review summarizes available literature from human and animal studies to explore the effects of Cit on metabolic parameters in T2D. It also discusses the possible mechanisms underlying Cit-induced improved metabolic parameters in T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Bagheripour
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Jeddi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrow Kashfi
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Asghar Ghasemi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Wang X, Lv W, Xu J, Zheng A, Zeng M, Cao K, Wang X, Cui Y, Li H, Yang M, Shao Y, Zhang F, Zou X, Long J, Feng Z, Liu J. Hepatic Suppression of Mitochondrial Complex II Assembly Drives Systemic Metabolic Benefits. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2105587. [PMID: 35037426 PMCID: PMC8948583 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202105587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Alternate day fasting (ADF), the most popular form of caloric restriction, has shown to improve metabolic health in preclinical subjects, while intrinsic network underpinning the process remains unclear. Here, it is found that liver undergoes dramatic metabolic reprogramming during ADF, accompanied surprisingly with unique complex II dysfunction attributing to suspended complex II assembly via suppressing SDHAF4, a recently identified assembly factor. Despite moderate mitochondrial complex II dysfunction, hepatic Sdhaf4 knockout mice present intriguingly improved glucose tolerance and systemic insulin sensitivity, consistent with mice after ADF intervention. Mechanistically, it is found that hepatocytes activate arginine-nitric oxide (NO) biosynthesis axle in response to complex II and citric acid cycle dysfunction, the release of NO from liver can target muscle and adipocytes in addition to its autocrine action for enhanced insulin sensitivity. These results highlight the pivotal role of liver in ADF-associated systemic benefits, and suggest that targeting hepatic complex II assembly can be an intriguing strategy against metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqiang Wang
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Weiqiang Lv
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Adi Zheng
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Mengqi Zeng
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Ke Cao
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Xun Wang
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Yuting Cui
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Hao Li
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Meng Yang
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Yongping Shao
- Frontier Institute of Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineXi'anShanghai200240China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye DiseasesShanghai200240China
| | - Xuan Zou
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and BiotherapyThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShannxi710004China
- Shaanxi Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatic & Splenic DiseasesThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShannxi710004China
| | - Jiangang Long
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
| | - Zhihui Feng
- Frontier Institute of Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and BiotherapyThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShannxi710004China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation SciencesQingdaoShandong266071China
| | - Jiankang Liu
- Center for Mitochondrial Biology and MedicineThe Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of EducationSchool of Life Science and TechnologyXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxi710049China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation SciencesQingdaoShandong266071China
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7
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Burton-Freeman B, Freeman M, Zhang X, Sandhu A, Edirisinghe I. Watermelon and L-Citrulline in Cardio-Metabolic Health: Review of the Evidence 2000-2020. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2021; 23:81. [PMID: 34894302 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-021-00978-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) distinctively contains L-citrulline and L-arginine, precursors of nitric oxide (NO), along with polyphenols and carotenoids suggesting a role in cardio-metabolic health. The goal of this paper is to review the preclinical and clinical trial evidence published from 2000 to 2020 to assess watermelon intake and L-citrulline, as a signature compound of watermelon, on cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes, and to identify future directions important for establishing dietary guidance and therapeutic recommendations actionable by health care professionals, patients, and the general public. RECENT FINDINGS Watermelon and L-citrulline supplementation reduced blood pressure in human trials. Evidence for benefits in lipids/lipoprotein metabolism is emerging based on human literature and consistently reported in animal models. A role for watermelon intake in body weight control, possibly through satiety mechanisms, warrants further research. Likewise, improved glucose homeostasis in chemically and diet-induced animal models of diabetes is apparent, though limited data are available in humans. Emerging areas include brain and gut health indicated by NO bioavailability in all tissues, and evidence suggesting improvements in gut barrier function and altered microbial composition after watermelon intake that may influence metabolite pools and physiological function. Watermelon fruit contains unique vaso- and metabolically-active compounds. Accumulating evidence supports regular intake for cardio-metabolic health. Future research to determine the amount and frequency of watermelon/citrulline intake for desired outcomes in different populations requires attention to advance preventative and therapeutic strategies for optimal health and disease risk reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Burton-Freeman
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35 Street, Suite 3D6-1, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA.
| | - Morganne Freeman
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35 Street, Suite 3D6-1, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA
| | - Xuhuiqun Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35 Street, Suite 3D6-1, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA
| | - Amandeep Sandhu
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35 Street, Suite 3D6-1, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA
| | - Indika Edirisinghe
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35 Street, Suite 3D6-1, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA
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8
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Miyatake S, Hino K, Ebisu G, Fujita S. Oral administration of l-citrulline alters the vascular delivery of substances to rat skeletal muscles. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 28:101149. [PMID: 34693038 PMCID: PMC8515244 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial function deteriorates with age and disease, and the production of vasodilator factors like nitric oxide (NO) decreases. The free amino acid l-citrulline increases vasodilation and blood flow through increased NO production. We examined the effects of oral l-citrulline administration on vascular delivery of substances to skeletal muscles. In Experiment 1, following oral l-citrulline administration and subsequent intravenous Evans blue dye (EBD) administration to rats, EBD levels delivered to skeletal muscles were measured after 60 min. In Experiment 2, plasma concentrations of amino acids and NOx, an indicator of vasodilation, were measured over time after oral l-citrulline administration. In Experiment 3, we measured EBD levels in skeletal muscles of streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats following l-citrulline administration. In these experiments, EBD levels in the soleus muscle were higher in the l-citrulline group than in the control group (19.9 ± 0.7 vs. 22.5 ± 1.9 μg/g tissue, p < 0.05). Plasma l-arginine, l-citrulline, and NOx levels were increased within 30 min after l-citrulline administration. EBD levels in the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles were higher in diabetic rats with l-citrulline administration (18.7 ± 2.2 vs. 25.0 ± 4.3 μg/g tissue, p < 0.05 and 8.0 ± 0.5 vs. 9.2 ± 0.8 μg/g tissue, p = 0.05, respectively). These data suggest that oral l-citrulline administration may increase the level of substances delivered to skeletal muscles by increasing the NO production in both normal and vascular endothelial dysfunction models. l-Citrulline (CIT) increases blood flow and induces vasorelaxation. CIT increased dye delivery to soleus but not gastrocnemius muscles in normal rats. CIT administration increased the blood levels of l-arginine and NOx. CIT led to higher dye delivery to soleus and gastrocnemius muscles in diabetic rats. CIT increase vascular delivery in skeletal muscles through increasing NO production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Miyatake
- OS-1 Division, Medical Foods Research Institute, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc., 115 Kuguhara, Tateiwa, Muya-cho, Naruto, Tokushima, 772-8601, Japan.,Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1, Nojihigashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
| | - Kazuo Hino
- OS-1 Division, Medical Foods Research Institute, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc., 115 Kuguhara, Tateiwa, Muya-cho, Naruto, Tokushima, 772-8601, Japan
| | - Goro Ebisu
- OS-1 Division, Medical Foods Research Institute, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc., 115 Kuguhara, Tateiwa, Muya-cho, Naruto, Tokushima, 772-8601, Japan
| | - Satoshi Fujita
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1, Nojihigashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
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9
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Serum Metabolite Profile Associated with Sex-Dependent Visceral Adiposity Index and Low Bone Mineral Density in a Mexican Population. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11090604. [PMID: 34564420 PMCID: PMC8472083 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11090604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence shows that obesity correlates negatively with bone mass. However, traditional anthropometric measures such as body mass index could not discriminate visceral adipose tissue from subcutaneous adipose tissue. The visceral adiposity index (VAI) is a reliable sex-specified indicator of visceral adipose distribution and function. Thus, we aimed to identify metabolomic profiles associated with VAI and low bone mineral density (BMD). A total of 602 individuals from the Health Workers Cohort Study were included. Forty serum metabolites were measured using the targeted metabolomics approach, and multivariate regression models were used to test associations of metabolomic profiles with anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters. The analysis showed a serum amino acid signature composed of glycine, leucine, arginine, valine, and acylcarnitines associated with high VAI and low BMD. In addition, we found a sex-dependent VAI in pathways related to primary bile acid biosynthesis, branched-chain amino acids, and the biosynthesis of pantothenate and coenzyme A (CoA). In conclusion, a metabolic profile differs by VAI and BMD status, and these changes are gender-dependent.
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Flores-Ramírez AG, Tovar-Villegas VI, Maharaj A, Garay-Sevilla ME, Figueroa A. Effects of L-Citrulline Supplementation and Aerobic Training on Vascular Function in Individuals with Obesity across the Lifespan. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13092991. [PMID: 34578869 PMCID: PMC8466140 DOI: 10.3390/nu13092991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with obesity are at higher risk for developing cardiometabolic diseases that once were considered health conditions of adults. Obesity is commonly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors such as dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and hypertension that contribute to the development of endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction, characterized by reduced nitric oxide (NO) production, precedes vascular abnormalities including atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness. Thus, early detection and treatment of cardiometabolic risk factors are necessary to prevent deleterious vascular consequences of obesity at an early age. Non-pharmacological interventions including L-Citrulline (L-Cit) supplementation and aerobic training stimulate endothelial NO mediated vasodilation, leading to improvements in organ perfusion, blood pressure, arterial stiffness, atherosclerosis and metabolic health (glucose control and lipid profile). Few studies suggest that the combination of L-Cit supplementation and exercise training can be an effective strategy to counteract the adverse effects of obesity on vascular function in older adults. Therefore, this review examined the efficacy of L-Cit supplementation and aerobic training interventions on vascular and metabolic parameters in obese individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaisa Genoveva Flores-Ramírez
- Department of Medical Science, Division of Health Science, University of Guanajuato, Campus León, León 37320, Mexico; (A.G.F.-R.); (V.I.T.-V.)
| | - Verónica Ivette Tovar-Villegas
- Department of Medical Science, Division of Health Science, University of Guanajuato, Campus León, León 37320, Mexico; (A.G.F.-R.); (V.I.T.-V.)
| | - Arun Maharaj
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA;
| | - Ma Eugenia Garay-Sevilla
- Department of Medical Science, Division of Health Science, University of Guanajuato, Campus León, León 37320, Mexico; (A.G.F.-R.); (V.I.T.-V.)
- Correspondence: (M.E.G.-S.); (A.F.)
| | - Arturo Figueroa
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA;
- Correspondence: (M.E.G.-S.); (A.F.)
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Abbaszadeh F, Azizi S, Mobasseri M, Ebrahimi-Mameghani M. The effects of citrulline supplementation on meta-inflammation and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2021; 13:52. [PMID: 33952324 PMCID: PMC8097832 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-021-00669-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to examine the effects of L-citrulline (l-CIT) on low-grade inflammation (meta-inflammation) and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients since it has exhibited hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects in most animal studies. METHODS In this double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 54 patients with T2D referred to specialized clinics of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences were assigned to L-CIT group (receiving orally one 3 g sachet of L-CIT daily before breakfast) or placebo group (receiving orally one 3 g sachet of microcrystalline cellulose daily before breakfast) for eight weeks. Serum levels of fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), CIT, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) were determined. The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-B) index were estimated at the baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS No significant difference was observed between the studied parameters at the baseline. L-CIT supplementation significantly reduced not only serum concentrations of fasting blood glucose but also HbA1c, serum IL-6 and TLR-4 levels in the L-CIT group (p < 0.05). Additionally, at the end of the study serum levels of CIT increased significantly in L-CIT group compared to the baseline and placebo group. Fasting blood glucose concentrations and HbA1c significantly decreased after the intervention compared to the placebo. There was no significant difference in serum IL-6, TLR-4, MCP-1 levels, as well as QUICKI and HOMA-B index between the two groups, even after adjusting for baseline variables and confounders. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed that, although L-CIT supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose concentrations, HbA1c and increased serum levels of CIT. It seems it could not significantly improve insulin sensitivity and meta-inflammation biomarkers. Additional studies with longer duration and different doses of L-CIT are required. Trial registration The protocol of this clinical trial is registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (registration no: IRCT20100209003320N16 at www.irct.ir ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Abbaszadeh
- Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samaneh Azizi
- Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Mobasseri
- Endocrine Research Center, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrangiz Ebrahimi-Mameghani
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Diet Therapy, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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