1
|
Walsh DJ, Bernard DJ, Fiddler JL, Pangilinan F, Esposito M, Harold D, Field MS, Parle-McDermott A, Brody LC. Vitamin B12 status and folic acid supplementation influence mitochondrial heteroplasmy levels in mice. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae116. [PMID: 38560530 PMCID: PMC10978065 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
One-carbon metabolism is a complex network of metabolic reactions that are essential for cellular function including DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 and folate are micronutrients that are utilized in this pathway and their deficiency can result in the perturbation of one-carbon metabolism and subsequent perturbations in DNA replication and repair. This effect has been well characterized in nuclear DNA but to date, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has not been investigated extensively. Mitochondrial variants have been associated with several inherited and age-related disease states; therefore, the study of factors that impact heteroplasmy are important for advancing our understanding of the mitochondrial genome's impact on human health. Heteroplasmy studies require robust and efficient mitochondrial DNA enrichment to carry out in-depth mtDNA sequencing. Many of the current methods for mtDNA enrichment can introduce biases and false-positive results. Here, we use a method that overcomes these limitations and have applied it to assess mitochondrial heteroplasmy in mouse models of altered one-carbon metabolism. Vitamin B12 deficiency was found to cause increased levels of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy across all tissues that were investigated. Folic acid supplementation also contributed to elevated mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy across all mouse tissues investigated. Heteroplasmy analysis of human data from the Framingham Heart Study suggested a potential sex-specific effect of folate and vitamin B12 status on mitochondrial heteroplasmy. This is a novel relationship that may have broader consequences for our understanding of one-carbon metabolism, mitochondrial-related disease and the influence of nutrients on DNA mutation rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darren J Walsh
- Gene and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - David J Bernard
- Gene and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Joanna L Fiddler
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
- Department of Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Faith Pangilinan
- Gene and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Madison Esposito
- Gene and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Denise Harold
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Martha S Field
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | | | - Lawrence C Brody
- Gene and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Virdi S, McKee AM, Nuthi M, Jadavji NM. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism in Healthy Brain Aging. Nutrients 2023; 15:3891. [PMID: 37764675 PMCID: PMC10537016 DOI: 10.3390/nu15183891] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging results in more health challenges, including neurodegeneration. Healthy aging is possible through nutrition as well as other lifestyle changes. One-carbon (1C) metabolism is a key metabolic network that integrates nutritional signals with several processes in the human body. Dietary supplementation of 1C components, such as folic acid, vitamin B12, and choline are reported to have beneficial effects on normal and diseased brain function. The aim of this review is to summarize the current clinical studies investigating dietary supplementation of 1C, specifically folic acid, choline, and vitamin B12, and its effects on healthy aging. Preclinical studies using model systems have been included to discuss supplementation mechanisms of action. This article will also discuss future steps to consider for supplementation. Dietary supplementation of folic acid, vitamin B12, or choline has positive effects on normal and diseased brain function. Considerations for dietary supplementation to promote healthy aging include using precision medicine for individualized plans, avoiding over-supplementation, and combining therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Virdi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (S.V.); (A.M.M.); (M.N.)
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Abbey M. McKee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (S.V.); (A.M.M.); (M.N.)
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Manogna Nuthi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (S.V.); (A.M.M.); (M.N.)
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Nafisa M. Jadavji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (S.V.); (A.M.M.); (M.N.)
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85308, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bailey RL, Stover PJ. Precision Nutrition: The Hype Is Exceeding the Science and Evidentiary Standards Needed to Inform Public Health Recommendations for Prevention of Chronic Disease. Annu Rev Nutr 2023; 43:385-407. [PMID: 37603433 PMCID: PMC11015823 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-061021-025153] [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] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
As dietary guidance for populations shifts from preventing deficiency disorders to chronic disease risk reduction, the biology supporting such guidance becomes more complex due to the multifactorial risk profile of disease and inherent population heterogeneity in the diet-disease relationship. Diet is a primary driver of chronic disease risk, and population-based guidance should account for individual responses. Cascading effects on evidentiary standards for population-based guidance are not straightforward. Precision remains a consideration for dietary guidance to prevent deficiency through the identification of population subgroups with unique nutritional needs. Reducing chronic disease through diet requires greater precision in (a) establishing essential nutrient needs throughout the life cycle in both health and disease; (b) considering effects of nutrients and other food substances on metabolic, immunological, inflammatory, and other physiological responses supporting healthy aging; and (c) considering healthy eating behaviors. Herein we provide a template for guiding population-based eating recommendations for reducing chronic diseases in heterogenous populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Regan L Bailey
- Institute for Advancing Health through Agriculture and Department of Nutrition Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA;
| | - Patrick J Stover
- Institute for Advancing Health through Agriculture and Department of Nutrition Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ibraheem A, Nashwan AJ, Yassin MA. Elderly Patient With Hematological and Neurological Manifestations of Undetermined Origin: A Diagnostic Dilemma of Pernicious Anemia. Cureus 2023; 15:e43045. [PMID: 37680425 PMCID: PMC10480558 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pernicious anemia (PA) is a chronic inflammatory destructive disease of parietal cells of predominantly the gastric fundus. It leads to vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency secondary to a deficiency of intrinsic factors. Despite the medical advances nowadays, diagnosing PA can be challenging. This report highlights a neglected case of PA with ongoing subacute combined degeneration of the cord (SCDS) in an elderly patient. An 86-year-old lady with multiple comorbidities was referred to the hematology outpatient clinic for refractory anemia for the last two months. At first, her general practitioner (GP) treated her as a case of anemia of chronic disease but without improvement. Her initial clinical assessment revealed hematological and neurological manifestations of undetermined origin, including global weakness, hypertonia, and hyperreflexia with sensory deficits, especially in the lower limbs. On investigation, the hemoglobin level was 9 g/dL with high indirect bilirubinemia and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Despite the normal mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and peripheral blood smear, positive anti-intrinsic factor and parietal cell antibodies tests were subsequently reported, suggesting the diagnosis of PA. As a result, she was commenced on lifelong parenteral cobalamin replacement therapy. On follow-up visits of three months, she illustrated a clinical recovery in fatigability and paranesthesia. As expected, the laboratory parameters revealed a rise in hemoglobin level (11 g/dL) and serum vitamin B12 (418 pg/mL). However, she remained bedridden with spastic limbs. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion since PA is a rare disease with variable clinical presentations. The optimal management approach is by a multidisciplinary care team of internists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, and hematologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anas Ibraheem
- Internal Medicine, Imamein Kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, IRQ
- Internal Medicine, Clinical Hematology, Al Karama Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, IRQ
| | | | - Mohamed A Yassin
- Hematology, National Centre for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, QAT
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Osa-Andrews B, Sanchez M, Hashim IA. The Continued Need for the Routine Assessment of Folate Status. Lab Med 2023:6986983. [PMID: 36637228 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmac148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Choosing Wisely initiative recommended cessation of folate measurement, suggesting folate supplementation in macrocytic anemia. This study reviewed the need for continued blood folate testing at a large SafetyNet county teaching hospital. METHODS Red blood cell (RBC) folate, vitamin B12, iron, ferritin, and hemoglobin results were obtained for utilization review. RESULTS Of the 593 RBC folate results, 69 (11.7%) were deficient and 30 (5%) had high values. Collectively, 369 (73.9%) had normal vitamin B12 levels, 342 (70%) had low hemoglobin, 184 (62.5) had normal and 57 (19.4%) had low ferritin, 122 (38.2%) had normal and 188 (59%) had low iron levels. A total of 41 (12%) had normal folate, low ferritin, low hemoglobin, and low iron, suggestive of iron deficiency anemia. There were 11 patients who exhibited low folate, low or normal ferritin, low hemoglobin, and low iron levels, suggesting combined folate and iron deficiency anemias. CONCLUSION This study highlights the need for institutions to assess the applicability of national recommendations to their local population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bremansu Osa-Andrews
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Melissa Sanchez
- Department of Pathology, Parkland Hospital System, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ibrahim A Hashim
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Pathology, Parkland Hospital System, Dallas, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Riboflavin Intake Inversely Associated with Cardiovascular-Disease Mortality and Interacting with Folate Intake: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2016. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245345. [PMID: 36558504 PMCID: PMC9785396 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between intakes of riboflavin and mortality has not been examined intensively in general populations. In this study, 10,480 adults in the 2005-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were followed-up until 2019 for their vital status. Riboflavin and folate were assessed by two-day 24 h recall. The date and cause of death were obtained from the US Mortality Registry. The risks of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality were investigated using a Cox regression analysis. During a mean of 8.5 years follow-up, there were 1214 deaths registered (including 373 deaths from CVD and 302 from cancer). Compared to low level (quartile 1, Q1) of riboflavin intake, the hazard ratios (HRs) (95% confidence interval (CI)) for high level (quartile 4, Q4) were 0.53 (0.31-0.90) for CVD mortality and 0.62 (0.48-0.81) for all-cause mortality. The inverse association between riboflavin intake and CVD mortality was only significant among those with a high intake of folate (p for interaction 0.045). Those with a high folate intake (Q4) and low intake of riboflavin (Q1) had the highest risk of CVD mortality (HR 4.38, 95% CI 1.79-10.72), as compared with a high intake of both riboflavin and folate. In conclusion, riboflavin intake was inversely associated with all-cause mortality and CVD mortality, and the association was modified by folate intake.
Collapse
|
7
|
Design of Cereal Products Naturally Enriched in Folate from Barley Pearling By-Products. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183729. [PMID: 36145105 PMCID: PMC9500880 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate is a fundamental vitamin for human health in prevention of many diseases; however, unfortunately its deficiency is widespread, so a greater availability of folate rich foods is desirable. The aim of this study was to design new cereal products naturally enriched in folate using barley flour from pearling as ingredient. Folate content of unfortified and fortified commercial grain-based products was considered to identify the best ingredients for new formulation and for folate content comparisons. Nineteen Italian barley cultivars were evaluated for their folate content and Natura was chosen for its highest folate levels = 69.3 μg/100 g f.w. Application of pearling gave a by-product flour with a high folate level: 221.7 ± 7.0 μg/100 g; this flour was employed to design pasta and biscuits naturally enriched in folate: 87.1 μg/100 g and 70.1 ± 3.7 μg/100 g f.w., respectively. Folate content of new products is higher than commercial samples: 39.2 μg/100 g in refined pasta, 60.4 μg/100 g in wholemeal pasta, 62.1 μg/100 g in fortified biscuits and 10.4 μg/100 g in unfortified ones. Enriched pasta had higher folate retention (68.5%) after cooking compared to the fortified one (27.8%). This research shows promising results concerning the pearling technique to design new cereal products naturally enriched in folates.
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu Z, Farkas P, Wang K, Kohli M, Fitzpatrick TB. B vitamin supply in plants and humans: the importance of vitamer homeostasis. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 111:662-682. [PMID: 35673947 PMCID: PMC9544542 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
B vitamins are a group of water-soluble micronutrients that are required in all life forms. With the lack of biosynthetic pathways, humans depend on dietary uptake of these compounds, either directly or indirectly, from plant sources. B vitamins are frequently given little consideration beyond their role as enzyme accessory factors and are assumed not to limit metabolism. However, it should be recognized that each individual B vitamin is a family of compounds (vitamers), the regulation of which has dedicated pathways. Moreover, it is becoming increasingly evident that individual family members have physiological relevance and should not be sidelined. Here, we elaborate on the known forms of vitamins B1 , B6 and B9 , their distinct functions and importance to metabolism, in both human and plant health, and highlight the relevance of vitamer homeostasis. Research on B vitamin metabolism over the past several years indicates that not only the total level of vitamins but also the oft-neglected homeostasis of the various vitamers of each B vitamin is essential to human and plant health. We briefly discuss the potential of plant biology studies in supporting human health regarding these B vitamins as essential micronutrients. Based on the findings of the past few years we conclude that research should focus on the significance of vitamer homeostasis - at the organ, tissue and subcellular levels - which could improve the health of not only humans but also plants, benefiting from cross-disciplinary approaches and novel technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeguang Liu
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant BiologyUniversity of GenevaQuai Ernest‐Ansermet 30CH‐1211Geneva 4Switzerland
| | - Peter Farkas
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant BiologyUniversity of GenevaQuai Ernest‐Ansermet 30CH‐1211Geneva 4Switzerland
| | - Kai Wang
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant BiologyUniversity of GenevaQuai Ernest‐Ansermet 30CH‐1211Geneva 4Switzerland
| | - Morgan‐Océane Kohli
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant BiologyUniversity of GenevaQuai Ernest‐Ansermet 30CH‐1211Geneva 4Switzerland
| | - Teresa B. Fitzpatrick
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant BiologyUniversity of GenevaQuai Ernest‐Ansermet 30CH‐1211Geneva 4Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Miani C, Ludwig A, Doyle IM, Breckenkamp J, Hoeller-Holtrichter C, Spallek J, Razum O. The role of education and migration background in explaining differences in folic acid supplementation intake in pregnancy: results from a German birth cohort study. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:6094-6102. [PMID: 34420537 PMCID: PMC11148613 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021003621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Official German recommendations advise women to start taking folic acid supplementation (FAS) before conception and continue during the first pregnancy trimester to lower the risk of birth defects. Women from lower socio-economic background and ethnic minorities tend to be less likely to take FAS in other European countries. As little is known about the determinants of FAS in Germany, we aimed to investigate the association between FAS and formal education and migration background, adjusting for demographic factors. DESIGN We used data (2013-2016) on nutrition and socio-economic and migration background from the baseline questionnaire of the BaBi cohort study. We performed multivariate regressions and mediation analyses. SETTING Bielefeld, Germany. PARTICIPANTS Nine-hundred forty-seven women (pregnant or who had given birth in the past 2 months). RESULTS 16.7% of the participants (158/947) did not use FAS. Migration-related variables (e.g. language, length of stay) were not associated with FAS in the adjusted models. FAS was lower in women with lower level of formal education and in unplanned pregnancies. Reasons given by women for not taking FAS were unplanned pregnancy and lack of knowledge of FAS. CONCLUSIONS Health practitioners may be inclined to see migrant women as an inherently at-risk group for failed intake of FAS. However, it is primarily women who did not plan their pregnancy, and women of lower formal education level, who are at risk. Different public health strategies to counter low supplementation rates should be supported, those addressing the social determinants of health (i.e. education) and those more focused on family planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Miani
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Angelique Ludwig
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- Center for Innovation in Health Economics (ZIG OWL),Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ina-Merle Doyle
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- Institute for General Practice, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jürgen Breckenkamp
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Chantal Hoeller-Holtrichter
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jacob Spallek
- Department of Public Health, Institute for Health, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Oliver Razum
- Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Selhub J, Miller JW, Troen AM, Mason JB, Jacques PF. Perspective: The High-Folate-Low-Vitamin B-12 Interaction Is a Novel Cause of Vitamin B-12 Depletion with a Specific Etiology-A Hypothesis. Adv Nutr 2021; 13:16-33. [PMID: 34634124 PMCID: PMC8803489 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmab106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays important roles in intermediary metabolism. Vitamin B-12 deficiency has many identifiable causes, including autoimmune and other gastrointestinal malabsorption disorders, dietary deficiency, and congenital defects in genes that are involved in vitamin B-12 trafficking and functions. Another putative cause of vitamin B-12 deficiency is the high-folate-low vitamin B-12 interaction, first suspected as the cause for observed relapse and exacerbation of the neurological symptoms in patients with pernicious anemia who were prescribed high oral doses of folic acid. We propose that this interaction is real and represents a novel cause of vitamin B-12 depletion with specific etiology. We hypothesize that excessive intake of folic acid depletes serum holotranscobalamin (holoTC), thereby decreasing active vitamin B-12 in the circulation and limiting its availability for tissues. This effect is specific for holoTC and does not affect holohaptocorrin, the inert form of serum vitamin B-12. Depletion of holoTC by folic acid in individuals with already low vitamin B-12 status further compromises the availability of vitamin B-12 coenzymes to their respective enzymes, and consequently a more pronounced state of biochemical deficiency. This hypothesis is drawn from evidence of observational and intervention studies of vitamin B-12-deficient patients and epidemiological cohorts. The evidence also suggests that, in a depleted state, vitamin B-12 is diverted to the hematopoietic system or the kidney. This most likely reflects a selective response of tissues expressing folate receptors with high affinity for unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA; e.g., hematopoietic progenitors and renal tubules) compared with those tissues (e.g., liver) that only express the reduced folate carrier, which is universally expressed but has poor affinity for UMFA. The biochemical and physiological mechanisms underlying this interaction require elucidation to clarify its potential public health significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aron M Troen
- School of Nutritional Sciences and Institute of Biochemistry Food Science and Nutrition, The Robert H Smith Faculty of Agriculture Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Joel B Mason
- Tufts–USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul F Jacques
- Tufts–USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bai Y, Wang R, Yang Y, Li R, Wu X. Folic Acid Absorption Characteristics and Effect on Cecal Microbiota of Laying Hens. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:720851. [PMID: 34485442 PMCID: PMC8416075 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.720851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This experiment was conducted to investigate the characteristics of folic acid (FA) absorption in laying hens and the effect of FA supplementation on cecal microbiota. A total of 432 healthy hens (30-week-old) were randomly assigned to four diets supplemented with FA: 0, 1, 6, and 24 mg/kg of feed for 8 w. Blood, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, and cecal chyme samples (six samples per treatment) were collected from the hens at the end of the feeding trial. Expression profiles of folate transport and transformation genes in intestine and cecal microbiota were detected. Results showed that serum folate level significantly increased (P < 0.01) with an increase in dietary FA supplementation, reaching a plateau at 6 mg/kg FA supplementation. The expression of FA transport and transformation genes was not affected in the cecum (P > 0.05) by dietary FA supplementation; however, it was affected in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum and mostly showed a downward trend in treatment groups (P < 0.05). The genes affected include duodenal folate receptor (Folr) and dihydrofolate reductase (Dhfr), jejunal proton-coupled folate transporter (Pcft) and reduced folate carrier (Rfc), and ileal ATP binding cassette subfamily C member (Abcc2), Abcc3, Rfc, Folr, and Dhfr. Furthermore, according to the operational taxonomic unit classification and taxonomic position identification, the cecal microbiota population of the hens was not affected by dietary FA supplementation at the phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species levels (P > 0.05). However, the relative abundance of some microbiota was affected by dietary FA supplementation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, FA transport from the intestinal lumen into enterocytes, and then into the bloodstream, is strictly regulated, which may be associated with the regulation of the expression profiles of genes involved in FA absorption. Pathogenic bacteria decreased in the cecum, especially at 24 mg/kg supplementation, but the beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacteriaceae) decreased at this level, too. Overall, FA supplementation at 6 mg/kg, which was selected for folate-enriched egg production, did not affect the health and metabolism of laying hens negatively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Bai
- Laboratory of Poultry Production, College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Laboratory of Poultry Production, College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China.,Department of Life Sciences, Luliang University, Luliang, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Laboratory of Poultry Production, College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Ruirui Li
- Laboratory of Poultry Production, College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xiaotian Wu
- Laboratory of Poultry Production, College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang J, Cai D, Yang M, Hao Y, Zhu Y, Chen Z, Aziz T, Sarwar A, Yang Z. Screening of folate-producing lactic acid bacteria and modulatory effects of folate-biofortified yogurt on gut dysbacteriosis of folate-deficient rats. Food Funct 2021; 11:6308-6318. [PMID: 32602881 DOI: 10.1039/d0fo00480d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Folate deficiency is accompanied by gut dysbacteriosis. To understand dietary intervention in folate deficiency, a folate-deficient rat model was used to evaluate the modulatory effects of folate-producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and biofortified yogurt on gut dysbacteriosis. The high folate-producing strain was screened from 12 LABs, and its variant, namely Lactobacillus plantarum GSLP-7 V, with folate productivity in yogurt at 3.72 μg mL-1, was obtained by stressing with 5.0 mg L-1 methotrexate and 100.00 mg L-1 Ca2+. To our knowledge, this is the highest folate productivity in yogurt by LAB strains ever reported. To further examine the folate supplement effect in vivo, a folate-deficient rat model was established and fed a folate-free diet for 8 weeks. Also, the effects of L. plantrum GSLP-7 V, yogurt fermented with L. plantrum GSLP-7 V, plain yogurt, and chemical folic acid on folate deficiency and gut dysbacteriosis were examined. Analysis of the change in gut microbiota showed that the gut dysbacteriosis was significantly correlated with folate deficiency. Administration of L. plantrum GSLP-7 V and its fermented yogurt for 10 days restored the disrupted gut microbiota and recovered the serum folate and homocysteine to normal levels, while chemical folic acid worsened the gut dysbacteriosis. Chemical folic acid only enriched Akkermansia, while L. plantrum GSLP-7 V and its fermented yogurt modulated the gut microbiota comprehensively through 7 and 10 key genera, respectively. This study confirmed the effectiveness of dietary intervention with folate-biofortified yogurt through modulating gut microbiota, suggesting the potential of the folate-producing LAB as an agent for the treatment of folate-deficiency related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Dongyan Cai
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Ming Yang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Yijiang Hao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Yuanhua Zhu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Zexuan Chen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Tariq Aziz
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Abid Sarwar
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Zhennai Yang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Paffoni A, Reschini M, Noli SA, Viganò P, Parazzini F, Somigliana E. Folate Levels and Pregnancy Rate in Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Techniques: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:341-356. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
14
|
Molloy AM. Adverse effects on cognition caused by combined low vitamin B-12 and high folate status-we must do better than a definite maybe! Am J Clin Nutr 2020; 112:1422-1423. [PMID: 33094822 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqaa286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Molloy
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Reynolds EH. Antiepileptic drugs, folate and one carbon metabolism revisited. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 112:107336. [PMID: 32871500 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
16
|
Reiss A, Cohen MJ, Kaliner E, Gabai Kapara E, Singer A, Grotto I, Gamzu R. Lower rates of neural tube defects in Israel following folic acid supplementation policy. Prev Med 2020; 139:106064. [PMID: 32220587 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are common and disabling congenital malformations that remain a public health challenge despite prevention efforts. In 2000, The Israeli Ministry of Health published recommendations on daily folic acid (FA) supplementation for women of reproductive age and established a national NTD registry. This study aims to evaluate the long-term impact of the FA supplementation policy on NTD rates in Israel and the need for further intervention. In this descriptive report, we present the rate of NTD-affected pregnancies recorded in the registry between 2000 and 2012, their subtype (anencephaly, spina bifida or other), outcome (live birth, stillbirth or pregnancy termination), ethnic group (Jewish, Bedouin and non-Bedouin Muslim) and years of maternal education. The final analysis included 2374 NTD cases reported between 2000 and 2012, compared with 1,668,073 live births. During this period NTD rates decreased from 20.3 to 11.2 cases per 10,000 live births, a 45% reduction. Reductions were seen in rates of spina bifida, anencephaly and encephalocele. NTD rates decreased in all pregnancy outcomes and in all ethnic groups, though rates among Bedouins remain high. Women with higher levels of education tended to have lower NTD rates, and were more prone to choose termination of an affected pregnancy. Following the institution of FA supplementation in Israel, a substantial reduction was seen in NTD rates. Nonetheless, Israeli NTD rates remain higher than in other developed countries. FA interventions should continue to be vigorously implemented, especially in vulnerable populations. The global success of mandatory fortification of grain strongly advocates its consideration in Israel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annie Reiss
- Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Matan J Cohen
- Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel; Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem District, Israel
| | - Ehud Kaliner
- Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Amihood Singer
- Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Grotto
- Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel; Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
| | - Ronni Gamzu
- Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Saldanha LG, Dwyer JT, Haggans CJ, Mills JL, Potischman N. Perspective: Time to Resolve Confusion on Folate Amounts, Units, and Forms in Prenatal Supplements. Adv Nutr 2020; 11:753-759. [PMID: 32134106 PMCID: PMC7360441 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmaa017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate-containing prenatal supplements are commonly consumed in the United States, but inconsistencies in units of measure and chemical forms pose challenges for providing authoritative advice on recommended amounts. New regulations require folate to be declared as micrograms of dietary folate equivalents (DFE) on product labels, whereas intake recommendations for reducing the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) and the Tolerable Upper Intake Level are expressed as micrograms of folic acid. Today, >25% of prenatal supplements contain folate as synthetic salts of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF), but recommendations do not include this form of the vitamin. Harmonizing units of measure and addressing newer forms of folate salts in intake recommendations and in the prevention of NTDs would resolve the confusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila G Saldanha
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Johanna T Dwyer
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Carol J Haggans
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James L Mills
- Epidemiology Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nancy Potischman
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Reynolds EH, Green R. Valproate and folate: Congenital and developmental risks. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 108:107068. [PMID: 32375098 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Increasing awareness of the congenital and developmental risks associated with the use of sodium valproate (VPA) has led to recent European guidelines designed to avoid the use of this drug in pregnancy if effective alternative treatments are available. In the general population, it is well established that periconceptual folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) and possibly other congenital abnormalities. We here review the evidence 1) that VPA interferes with one-carbon metabolism, including the transport of methylfolate into the brain and the placenta by targeting folate receptors; 2) that VPA effects on the folate metabolic system contribute to congenital and developmental problems associated with VPA exposure; and 3) that genetic factors, notably polymorphisms related to one-carbon metabolism, contribute to the vulnerability to these VPA-induced risks. Based on these facts, we propose that the standard periconceptual use of 400 μg of folic acid may not adequately protect against VPA or other antiepileptic drug (AED)-induced congenital or developmental risks. Pending definitive studies to determine appropriate dose, we recommend up to 5 mg of folic acid periconceptually in at-risk women with the caveat that the addition of supplementary vitamin B12 may also be prudent because vitamin B12 deficiency is common in pregnancy in some countries and is an additional risk factor for developmental abnormalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ralph Green
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Berry RJ. Lack of historical evidence to support folic acid exacerbation of the neuropathy caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. Am J Clin Nutr 2019; 110:554-561. [PMID: 31187858 PMCID: PMC6785032 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqz089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In 1998 a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for folic acid was established based on case reports from the 1940s suggesting that high-dosage folic acid intake, used to treat patients with pernicious anemia, had the potential to precipitate or speed-up the development of neurological problems. This UL has been employed in the decision-making process used by more than 80 countries to establish programs to fortify staple foods with folic acid to prevent neural tube birth defects. Some have claimed that this UL is flawed and has become an obstacle to the wider adoption of neural tube defect prevention programs and have called for re-evaluation of the scientific validity of this UL. Case reports cannot establish causality, but they can reveal patterns in the timing of the onset and treatment of patients with pernicious anemia. These patterns can be compared with secular trends of usual medical practice for the treatment of pernicious anemia and with the changes in usage of folic acid preparations, including recommended therapeutic dosage and precautions for its usage surrounding the synthesis of folic acid in 1945 and vitamin B12 in 1948. Folic acid package inserts, early editions of hematology textbooks, and international expert reports provide valuable historical information. The recommended therapeutic daily dosage for folic acid of 5-20 mg was unchanged from 1946 through to 1971. The likely cause of the neurological problems encountered is the development of vitamin B12 neuropathy when pernicious anemia was treated with high-dosage folic acid before vitamin B12 was widely available in the early 1950s. Thus, the historical record does not provide compelling evidence that folic acid can potentially cause neurologic complications among those with low vitamin B12 status and lends support for reconsidering the basis for the UL of folic acid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Berry
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Congenital and Developmental Disorders, Atlanta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
[Folic acid and vitamin B12 determination in the assessment of cognitive disorders : Overview and data analysis from a university outpatient memory clinic]. DER NERVENARZT 2019; 90:1162-1169. [PMID: 30968196 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-019-0710-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies are particularly frequent conditions in older people. Since these metabolic disorders represent relevant dyscognitive factors, the assessment of vitamin B12 and folic acid levels is essential in the diagnostic approach of cognitive disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia in an outpatient memory clinic. This article summarizes the relevant diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies and their effects on cognition. The literature review is supplemented by a data analysis of a naturalistic cohort of 250 patients from this outpatient memory clinic.
Collapse
|
21
|
Irwin RE, Thursby SJ, Ondičová M, Pentieva K, McNulty H, Richmond RC, Caffrey A, Lees-Murdock DJ, McLaughlin M, Cassidy T, Suderman M, Relton CL, Walsh CP. A randomized controlled trial of folic acid intervention in pregnancy highlights a putative methylation-regulated control element at ZFP57. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:31. [PMID: 30777123 PMCID: PMC6380035 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0618-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal blood folate concentrations during pregnancy have been previously linked with DNA methylation patterns, but this has been done predominantly through observational studies. We showed recently in an epigenetic analysis of the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) of folic acid supplementation specifically in the second and third trimesters (the EpiFASSTT trial) that methylation at some imprinted genes was altered in cord blood samples in response to treatment. Here, we report on epigenome-wide screening using the Illumina EPIC array (~ 850,000 sites) in these same samples (n = 86). RESULTS The top-ranked differentially methylated promoter region (DMR) showed a gain in methylation with folic acid (FA) and was located upstream of the imprint regulator ZFP57. Differences in methylation in cord blood between placebo and folic acid treatment groups at this DMR were verified using pyrosequencing. The DMR also gains methylation in maternal blood in response to FA supplementation. We also found evidence of differential methylation at this region in an independent RCT cohort, the AFAST trial. By altering methylation at this region in two model systems in vitro, we further demonstrated that it was associated with ZFP57 transcription levels. CONCLUSIONS These results strengthen the link between folic acid supplementation during later pregnancy and epigenetic changes and identify a novel mechanism for regulation of ZFP57. This trial was registered 15 May 2013 at www.isrctn.com as ISRCTN19917787.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle E. Irwin
- Genomic Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Sara-Jayne Thursby
- Genomic Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Miroslava Ondičová
- Genomic Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Kristina Pentieva
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Helene McNulty
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Rebecca C. Richmond
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Aoife Caffrey
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Diane J. Lees-Murdock
- Genomic Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | | | - Tony Cassidy
- Psychology Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Matthew Suderman
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Caroline L. Relton
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Colum P. Walsh
- Genomic Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Alves da Silva AV, de Castro Oliveira SB, Di Rienzi SC, Brown-Steinke K, Dehan LM, Rood JK, Carreira VS, Le H, Maier EA, Betz KJ, Aihara E, Ley RE, Preidis GA, Shen L, Moore SR. Murine Methyl Donor Deficiency Impairs Early Growth in Association with Dysmorphic Small Intestinal Crypts and Reduced Gut Microbial Community Diversity. Curr Dev Nutr 2018. [PMCID: PMC6324351 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzy070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Folate and choline are essential methyl donor nutrients throughout the life span; however, the adverse effects of combined deficiency on early growth, intestinal epithelial morphology, and the gut microbiome remain only partially understood. Objectives We investigated the effects of dietary folate and choline deficiency on early growth, small intestinal (SI) epithelial architecture, and the gut microbiota of mice. To explore potential mechanisms for adverse effects on gut epithelial morphology, we also evaluated gene expression and DNA methylation in mouse intestinal epithelial organoids (enteroids) maintained in methyl donor–deficient (MDD) conditions. Methods Pregnant dams were administered 1 of 4 diets: 1) control diet (CD−), 2) an isocaloric MDD− diet, or 3) CD+ and 4) MDD+ formulations containing 1% succinylsulfathiazole to inhibit folate-producing gut bacteria. We weaned pups to their dams’ diet at 3 wk of age and monitored body weight and tail length pre- and postweaning. We measured serum folate, SI crypt morphology, and microbiota composition at 7 wk of age. Results Both MDD+ and MDD− diets impaired early ponderal and linear growth, lowered serum folate concentrations, and produced patchy areas of increased crypt depth throughout the SI. Succinylsulfathiazole increased crypt depth independently of diet. MDD or succinylsulfathiazole, alone or in combination, altered the gut microbiome, with decreased Bacteroidales and Clostridiales, increased Lactobacillales and Erysipelotrichaceae taxa, and decreased α-diversity indexes. Enteroids maintained in MDD media displayed dysmorphic crypt domains, altered expression of stem cell and secretory differentiation genes, and decreased DNA methylation of the glycosylation genes Beta-1,4-N-Acetyl-Galactosaminyltransferase-1 (B4galnt1) and Phosphoethanolamine/Phosphocholine-Phosphatase (Phospho1). Conclusion MDD impairs ponderal and linear growth in mice in association with dysmorphic SI crypts and reduced gut microbial diversity. In vitro methyl donor deficiency similarly induced dysmorphic crypts in mouse enteroids in conjunction with altered gene expression and DNA methylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio V Alves da Silva
- Instituto de Biomedicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Stephanie B de Castro Oliveira
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Sara C Di Rienzi
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Lauren M Dehan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Jill K Rood
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | | | - Hung Le
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Elizabeth A Maier
- Instituto de Biomedicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Kristina J Betz
- Instituto de Biomedicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Eitaro Aihara
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ruth E Ley
- Department of Microbiome Science, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Geoffrey A Preidis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX
| | - Lanlan Shen
- USDA Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Sean R Moore
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| |
Collapse
|