The role of vitamin A in mammalian reproduction and embryonic development

Mechanistic perspective on the actions of vitamin a in autism spectrum disorder etiology

Vitamin A (VA) has many functions in the body, some of which are key for the development and functioning of the nervous system, while some others might indirectly influence neural function. Both hypovitaminosis and hypervitaminosis A can lead to clinical manifestations of concern for individuals and for general global health. Scientific evidence on the link between VA and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is growing, with some clinical studies and accumulating results obtained from basic research using cellular and animal models. Remarkably, it has been shown that VA deficiency can exacerbate autistic symptomatology. In turn, VA supplementation has been shown to be able to improve autistic symptomatology in selected groups of individuals with ASD. However, it is important to recognize that ASD is a highly heterogeneous condition. Therefore, it is important to clarify how and when VA supplementation can be of benefit for affected individuals. Here we delve into the relationship between VA and ASD, discussing clinical observations and mechanistic insights obtained from research on selected autistic syndromes and laboratory models to advance in defining how the VA signaling pathway can be exploited for treatment of ASD.

Bibliometric analysis of research on retinoic acid in the field of kidney disorders

Retinoic acid is an active metabolite with significant physiological functions in human development, immunity, vision, and skin health. In recent years, research on retinoic acid in the field of kidney disorders has been increasing gradually. Yet, there is a lack of systematic bibliometric analysis of retinoic acid research in the kidney domain. This study included 1,368 articles published between 1998 and 2023 on treating kidney diseases with retinoic acid. Using the bibliometric analysis software VOSviewer and CiteSpace, we analyzed data on publication trends, contributing countries and institutions, journals and cocited journals, authors and cocited authors, cocited references, research hotspots, and frontiers. On the basis of the results of the bibliometric analysis, we identified the research efforts and their developmental trends, providing the groundwork for future research on retinoic acid.

All-trans retinoic acid induces lipophagy by reducing Rubicon in Hepa1c1c7 cells

All-trans retinoic acid (atRA), a metabolite of vitamin A, reduces hepatic lipid accumulation in liver steatosis model animals. Lipophagy, a new lipolysis pathway, degrades a lipid droplet (LD) via autophagy in adipose tissue and the liver. We recently found that atRA induces lipophagy in adipocytes. However, it remains unclear whether atRA induces lipophagy in hepatocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of atRA on lipophagy in Hepa1c1c7 cells and the liver of mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). First, we confirmed that atRA induced autophagy in Hepa1c1c7 cells by Western blotting and the GFP-LC3-mCherry probe. Next, we evaluated the lipolysis in fatty Hepa1c1c7 cells treated with the knockdown of Atg5, an essential gene in autophagy induction. Atg5-knockdown partly suppressed the atRA-induced lipolysis in fatty Hepa1c1c7 cells. We also found that atRA reduced the protein, but not mRNA, expression of Rubicon, a negative regulator of autophagy, in Hepa1c1c7 cells and the liver of HFD-fed mice. Rubicon-knockdown partly inhibited the atRA-induced lipolysis in fatty Hepa1c1c7 cells. In addition, atRA reduced hepatic Rubicon expression in young mice, but the effect of atRA on it diminished in aged mice. Finally, we investigated the mechanism underlying reduced Rubicon protein expression by atRA in hepatocytes. A protein synthesis inhibitor, but not proteasome or lysosomal inhibitors, significantly blocked the reduction of Rubicon protein expression by atRA in Hepa1c1c7 cells. These results suggest that atRA may promote lipophagy in fatty hepatocytes by reducing hepatic Rubicon expression via inhibiting protein synthesis.

Time-dependent changes in retinoids content in liver and adipose tissue after feeding of a vitamin A-deficient diet to mice

Vitamin A is an important nutrient for multiple physiological functions. To elucidate the role of vitamin A in vivo, vitamin A-deficient diets have been often used in mice to establish a vitamin A-deficiency model. However, the information on the appropriate feeding periods and time course of changes in vitamin A content in organs after the start of vitamin A-deficient diet feeding is lacking. This study aimed to assess the retinoids levels in liver and white adipose tissue in mice fed a vitamin A-deficient diet for ≤8 weeks. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the retinoids levels in liver and white adipose tissue every 2 weeks for ≤8 weeks. Vitamin A-deficient diet feeding significantly decreased retinol in the liver over 6 weeks, but retinyl palmitate, a main storage form of vitamin A, was not changed over 8 weeks. The plasma retinol level remained constant throughout the experiment. In white adipose tissue, retinyl palmitate gradually decreased over 8 weeks. These results indicate that vitamin A-deficient diet feeding longer than 6 weeks reduced retinol in liver and retinyl palmitate in white adipose tissue over 8 weeks, although it is not enough for the induction of a whole-body vitamin A deficiency.

Neuronal Cell Differentiation of iPSCs for the Clinical Treatment of Neurological Diseases

Current chemical treatments for cerebrovascular disease and neurological disorders have limited efficacy in tissue repair and functional restoration. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) present a promising avenue in regenerative medicine for addressing neurological conditions. iPSCs, which are capable of reprogramming adult cells to regain pluripotency, offer the potential for patient-specific, personalized therapies. The modulation of molecular mechanisms through specific growth factor inhibition and signaling pathways can direct iPSCs' differentiation into neural stem cells (NSCs). These include employing bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP-4), transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ), and Sma-and Mad-related protein (SMAD) signaling. iPSC-derived NSCs can subsequently differentiate into various neuron types, each performing distinct functions. Cell transplantation underscores the potential of iPSC-derived NSCs to treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and points to future research directions for optimizing differentiation protocols and enhancing clinical applications.

Retinoic Acid Upregulates METTL14 Expression and the m6A Modification Level to Inhibit the Proliferation of Embryonic Palate Mesenchymal Cells in Cleft Palate Mice

Cleft palate only (CPO) is one of the most common craniofacial birth defects. Environmental factors can induce cleft palate by affecting epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and non-coding RNA. However, there are few reports focusing on the RNA modifications. In this study, all-trans retinoic acid (atRA) was used to simulate environmental factors to induce a C57BL/6J fetal mouse cleft palate model. Techniques such as dot blotting and immunofluorescence were used to find the changes in m6A modification when cleft palate occurs. RNA-seq and KEGG analysis were used to screen for significantly differentially expressed pathways downstream. Primary mouse embryonic palate mesenchymal (MEPM) cells were successfully isolated and used for in vitro experimental verification. We found that an increased m6A methylation level was correlated with suppressed cell proliferation in the palatine process mesenchyme of cleft palate mice. This change is due to the abnormally high expression of m6A methyltransferase METTL14. When using siRNAs and the m6A methyltransferase complex inhibitor SAH to interfere with the expression or function of METTL14, the teratogenic effect of atRA on primary cells was partially alleviated. In conclusion, METTL14 regulates palatal mesenchymal cell proliferation and cycle-related protein expression relies on m6A methylation modification, affecting the occurrence of cleft palate.

Analysis of alterations in serum vitamins and correlations with gut microbiome, microbial metabolomics in patients with sepsis

BACKGROUND

Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play key roles in many biological pathways associated with sepsis. The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in the progression of sepsis and may contribute to the onset of multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in serum vitamins, and their correlation with intestinal flora and metabolomic profiles in patients with sepsis.

METHODS

The serum levels of vitamins were determined by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). 16S rRNA gene sequencing and Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) targeted metabolomics were used for microbiome and metabolome analysis.

RESULTS

In the training cohort: After univariate, multivariate (OPLS-DA) and Spearman analyses, it was concluded that vitamin levels of 25 (OH) VD3 and (VD2 + VD3), as well as vitamins A and B9, differed significantly among healthy controls (HC), non-septic critical patients (NS), and sepsis patients (SS) (P < 0.05). The validation cohort confirmed the differential vitamin findings from the training cohort. Moreover, analyses of gut flora and metabolites in septic patients and healthy individuals revealed differential flora, metabolites, and metabolic pathways that were linked to alterations in serum vitamin levels. We found for the first time that vitamin B9 was negatively correlated with g_Sellimonas.

CONCLUSION

Sepsis patients exhibited significantly lower levels of 25 (OH) VD3 and (VD2 + VD3), vitamins A and B9, which hold potential as predictive markers for sepsis prognosis. The changes in these vitamins may be associated with inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, and changes in gut flora.

All-trans retinoic acid induces lipophagy through the activation of the AMPK-Beclin1 signaling pathway and reduces Rubicon expression in adipocytes

Lipophagy is defined as a lipolysis pathway that degrades lipid droplet (LD) via autophagy. All-trans retinoic acid (atRA), a metabolite of vitamin A, stimulates lipolysis through hormone-sensitive lipase and β-oxidation. However, the regulation of lipolysis by atRA-induced autophagy in adipocytes remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of atRA on autophagy in epididymal fat of mice and the molecular mechanisms of autophagy in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Western blotting showed that atRA decreased the expression of p62, a cargo receptor for autophagic degradation, and increased the expression of the lipidated LC3B (LC3B-II), an autophagy marker, in epididymal fat. Next, we confirmed that atRA increased autophagic flux in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells using the GFP-LC3-RFP-LC3ΔG probe. Immunofluorescent staining revealed that the colocalization of LC3B with perilipin increased in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells treated with atRA. The knockdown of Atg5, an essential gene in autophagy induction, partly suppressed the atRA-induced release of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) from LDs in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. atRA time-dependently elicited the phosphorylation of AMPK and Beclin1, autophagy-inducing factors, in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Inversely, atRA decreased the protein expression of Rubicon, an autophagy repressor, in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells and epididymal fat. Interestingly, the expression of ALDH1A1, atRA-synthesizing enzymes, increased in epididymal fat with decreased protein expression of Rubicon in aged mice. These results suggest that atRA may partially induce lipolysis through lipophagy by activating the AMPK-Beclin1 signaling pathway in the adipocytes and increased atRA levels may contribute to decreased Rubicon expression in the epididymal fat of aged mice. (248/250 words).

Identification of testis development-related genes by combining Iso-Seq and RNA-Seq in Zeugodacus tau

Introduction: Zeugodacus tau (Walker) is an invasive pest. An effective method to control this pest is the sterile insect technique (SIT). To better apply this technique, it is necessary to understand testis development progression. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during testis development were analyzed by PacBio Iso-Seq and RNA-seq. Results: RNA-Seq library of Z. tau testes on day 1, 6, and 11 post eclosion were constructed. We identified 755 and 865 differentially expressed genes in the comparisons of T6 (testes on day 6) vs. T1 and T11 vs. T1, respectively. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in retinol metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism pathways. Knockdown of retinol dehydrogenase 12-like (rdh12-like), pyridoxal kinase (pdxk) and regucalcin (rgn), the representative gene in each of the above 3 pathways, reduced the hatching rate of Z. tau offspring. In addition, we identified 107 Drosophila spermatogenesis-related orthologous genes in Z. tau, of which innexin 2 (inx2) exhibited significantly up-regulated expression throughout testis development, and the knockdown of this gene reduced offspring hatching rate. Discussion: Our data indicated that rdh12-like, pdxk, rgn, and inx2 genes were related to testis development, and they were conserved in tephritid species. These results suggested that this gene might have the same function in tephritid. The findings provide an insight into testis development and spermatogenesis in tephritid species.

Non-canonical retinoid signaling in neural development, regeneration and synaptic function

Canonical retinoid signaling via nuclear receptors and gene regulation is critical for the initiation of developmental processes such as cellular differentiation, patterning and neurite outgrowth, but also mediates nerve regeneration and synaptic functions in adult nervous systems. In addition to canonical transcriptional regulation, retinoids also exert rapid effects, and there are now multiple lines of evidence supporting non-canonical retinoid actions outside of the nucleus, including in dendrites and axons. Together, canonical and non-canonical retinoid signaling provide the precise temporal and spatial control necessary to achieve the fine cellular coordination required for proper nervous system function. Here, we examine and discuss the evidence supporting non-canonical actions of retinoids in neural development and regeneration as well as synaptic function, including a review of the proposed molecular mechanisms involved.

Examination of the utility of skin carotenoid status in estimating dietary intakes of carotenoids and fruits and vegetables: A randomized, parallel-group, controlled feeding trial

OBJECTIVE

Optical spectroscopy-measured skin carotenoid status (SCS) has been validated for estimating fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake; however, there is limited research addressing SCS kinetics in whole-diet interventions. The aim of this controlled feeding trial was to explore SCS's response to carotenoid intake changes via whole-diet intervention, evaluating its biomarker potential.

METHODS

Eighty participants ages 20 to 49 y, without underlying diseases, were randomly allocated to the high-carotenoid group (HG; n = 40) or control group (CG; n = 40). The HG consumed a high-carotenoid diet (21 mg total carotenoids/2000 kcal), whereas the CG consumed a control diet (13.6 mg total carotenoids/2000 kcal) for 6 wk. Subsequently, skin and blood carotenoid concentrations were tracked without intervention for 4 wk. SCS was measured weekly via resonance Raman spectroscopy, and serum carotenoid concentrations were analyzed biweekly using high-performance liquid chromatography. Baseline carotenoid and F&V intakes were assessed via a 3-d diet record. The kinetics of SCS and serum carotenoid concentrations were analyzed using a weighted generalized estimating equation. Pearson's correlation analyses were used to examine baseline correlations between SCS and dietary carotenoid and F&V intakes, as well as serum carotenoid concentrations.

RESULTS

During the intervention, the HG showed a faster and greater SCS increase than the CG (difference in slope per week = 8.87 AU, Pinteraction <0.001). Baseline SCS had positive correlations with total carotenoid intake (r = 0.45), total F&V intake (r = 0.49), and total serum carotenoid concentration (r = 0.79; P < 0.001 for all).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that SCS is a valid biomarker for monitoring changes in carotenoid intake through whole diet, which supports using SCS for assessing carotenoid-rich F&V intake.

Dietary supplementation of VA enhances growth, feed utilization, glucose and lipid metabolism, appetite, and antioxidant capacity of Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary vitamin A on juvenile Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi). Chinese perch were fed with five experimental diets containing 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 mg VA·kg-1 for 8 weeks. Results showed that dietary vitamin A significantly influenced the fish's growth, feed utilization, glucose and lipid metabolism, appetite, and antioxidant capacity. Vitamin A-supplemented groups had higher weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) compared to the control group. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was also lower in the vitamin A-supplemented groups. Dietary vitamin A had no significant effect on the survival rate (SR). Compared to the control group, fish fed with vitamin A had increased feed intake (FI), and the expression of appetite-promoting genes (npy and agrp) was significantly higher in the 40 mg VA·kg-1 group. Vitamin A also enhanced the utilization of dietary protein by Chinese perch. The serum glucose content of the fish fed with 40 mg VA·kg-1 diet was significantly higher than that of the control group and 20 mg VA·kg-1 diet, indicating that the promoting effect of VA on gluconeogenesis was greater than that on glycolysis. Additionally, dietary vitamin A increased the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes (hl and fas) and antioxidant genes (nrf2 and gpx) in the fish. These results suggest that the optimal vitamin A requirement of juvenile Chinese perch bream was estimated to be 37.32 mg VA·kg-1 based on broken-line regression analysis of WGR. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of dietary vitamin A on the growth, metabolism, and antioxidant capacity of Chinese perch.

Nutrition during pregnancy: Influence on the gut microbiome and fetal development

Pregnancy is a finely tuned process, with the health and well-being of the developing fetus determined by the metabolic status and dietary intake of the mother. The maternal gut microbiome is remodeled during pregnancy, and this, coupled with the maternal nutrient intake during gestation shapes the production of metabolites that can cross the placenta and affect fetal development. As posited by the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease Hypothesis, such environmental influences can have major effects on the developing organ systems. When occurring at particularly sensitive gestational time points, these developmental programming events can have long lasting effects on offspring adaptation to the postnatal environment, and major health implications later in life. This review will summarize current knowledge on how pregnancy and maternal dietary intake intrinsically and extrinsically modify maternal gut microbiota composition and metabolite production. Further, we will assess how these factors shape the fetal landscape and ultimately contribute to offspring health. DOHaD, fetal development, metabolites, microbiome, nutrition, pregnancy, short-chain fatty acids.

Identifying Foods That Optimize Intake of Key Micronutrients During Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Most pregnant women in the United States are at risk of inadequate intake of vitamin A, vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids from foods alone. Very few United States dietary supplements provide sufficient doses of all 6 nutrients without inducing excess intake.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify energy-efficient foods that provide sufficient doses of these nutrients and could be consumed in lieu of dietary supplements to achieve the recommended intake in pregnancy.

METHODS

In a previous analysis of 2,450 pregnant women, we calculated the range of additional intake needed to shift 90% of participants to intake above the estimated average requirement and keep 90% below the tolerable upper level for these 6 nutrients. Here, we identified foods and beverages from the 2019 to 2020 Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies that provide target levels of these nutrients without exceeding the additional energy intake recommended for pregnancy beginning in the second trimester (340 kilocalories).

RESULTS

We identified 2358 candidate foods meeting the target intake range for at least one nutrient. No candidate foods provided target amounts of all 6 nutrients. Seaweed (raw or cooked without fat) provided sufficient vitamin A, folate, calcium, iron, and omega-3s (5 of 6 nutrients) but would require an intake of >5 cups/d. Twenty-one other foods/beverages (mainly fish, vegetables, and beverages) provided target amounts of 4 of the 6 nutrients. Few foods met targets for vitamin D (n = 54) or iron (n = 93).

CONCLUSIONS

Results highlight the difficulty in meeting nutritional requirements from diet alone and imply that dietary supplements are likely necessary to meet vitamin D and iron targets in pregnancy, as well as omega-3 fatty acid targets for individuals who do not consume fish products. Other foods could be added in limited amounts to help meet intake targets without exceeding caloric recommendations or nutrient safety limits.

Deregulation of All-Trans Retinoic Acid Signaling and Development in Cancer

Cancer stem cells are the root cause of cancer, which, in essence, is a developmental disorder. All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) signaling via ligand-activation of the retinoic acid receptors (RARs) plays a crucial role in tissue patterning and development during mammalian embryogenesis. In adults, active RARγ maintains the pool of hematopoietic stem cells, whereas active RARα drives myeloid cell differentiation. Various findings have revealed that ATRA signaling is deregulated in many cancers. The enzymes for ATRA synthesis are downregulated in colorectal, gastric, lung, and oropharyngeal cancers. ATRA levels within breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and renal cancer cells were lower than within their normal counterpart cells. The importance is that 0.24 nM ATRA activates RARγ (for stem cell stemness), whereas 100 times more is required to activate RARα (for differentiation). Moreover, RARγ is an oncogene regarding overexpression within colorectal, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular, ovarian, pancreatic, and renal cancer cells. The microRNA (miR) 30a-5p downregulates expression of RARγ, and miR-30a/miR-30a-5p is a tumor suppressor for breast, colorectal, gastric, hepatocellular, lung, oropharyngeal, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and renal cancer. These complementary findings support the view that perturbations to ATRA signaling play a role in driving the abnormal behavior of cancer stem cells. Targeting ATRA synthesis and RARγ has provided promising approaches to eliminating cancer stem cells because such agents have been shown to drive cell death.

Vitamin A deficiency compromises the barrier function of the retinal pigment epithelium

A major cause for childhood blindness worldwide is attributed to nutritional vitamin A deficiency. Surprisingly, the molecular basis of the ensuing retinal degeneration has not been well defined. Abundant expression of the retinoid transporter STRA6 in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and homeostatic blood levels of retinol-binding protein delay vitamin A deprivation of the mouse eyes. Hence, genetic dissection of STRA6 makes mice susceptible to nutritional manipulation of ocular retinoid status. We performed RNA-seq analyses and complemented the data with tests of visual physiology, ocular morphology, and retinoid biochemistry to compare eyes with different vitamin A status. Mild ocular vitamin A deficiency decreased transcripts of photoreceptor transduction pathway-related genes and increased transcripts of oxidative stress pathways. The response was associated with impaired visual sensitivity and an accumulation of fluorescent debris in the retina. Severe vitamin A deficiency did not only impair visual perception but also decreased transcripts of genes encoding cell adhesion and cellular junction proteins. This response altered cell morphology, resulted in significant changes in transport pathways of small molecules, and compromised the barrier function of the RPE. Together, our analyses characterize the molecular events underlying nutritional blindness in a novel mouse model and indicate that breakdown of the outer blood-retinal barrier contributes to retinal degeneration and photoreceptor cell death in severe vitamin A deficiency.

Pros and Cons of Dietary Vitamin A and Its Precursors in Poultry Health and Production: A Comprehensive Review

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that cannot be synthesized in the body and must be obtained through diet. Despite being one of the earliest vitamins identified, a complete range of biological actions is still unknown. Carotenoids are a category of roughly 600 chemicals that are structurally related to vitamin A. Vitamin A can be present in the body in the form of retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid. Vitamins are required in minute amounts, yet they are critical for health, maintenance, and performing key biological functions in the body, such as growth, embryo development, epithelial cell differentiation, and immune function. Vitamin A deficiency induces a variety of problems, including lack of appetite, decreased development and immunity, and susceptibility to many diseases. Dietary preformed vitamin A, provitamin A, and several classes of carotenoids can be used to meet vitamin A requirements. The aim of this review is to compile the available scientific literature regarding the sources and important functions, such as growth, immunity, antioxidant, and other biological activities of vitamin A in poultry.

Zebrafish as a Model to Study Retinoic Acid Signaling in Development and Disease

Retinoic acid (RA) is a metabolite of vitamin A (retinol) that plays various roles in development to influence differentiation, patterning, and organogenesis. RA also serves as a crucial homeostatic regulator in adult tissues. The role of RA and its associated pathways are well conserved from zebrafish to humans in both development and disease. This makes the zebrafish a natural model for further interrogation into the functions of RA and RA-associated maladies for the sake of basic research, as well as human health. In this review, we explore both foundational and recent studies using zebrafish as a translational model for investigating RA from the molecular to the organismal scale.

Selecting a dietary supplement with appropriate dosing for 6 key nutrients in pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Most pregnant women in the United States (US) are at risk of inadequate intake of key nutrients during pregnancy from foods alone. Current dietary supplement practices reduce risk of inadequacy for only some nutrients and induce excessive intake of other nutrients.

OBJECTIVES

Our study aimed to estimate the doses of supplementation needed to help most pregnant women achieve the recommended intake without exceeding upper limits for key prenatal nutrients and to identify US dietary supplements providing these doses.

METHODS

We conducted 24-h dietary recalls in 2450 pregnant participants aged 14-50 y from 2007 to 2019. We estimated the usual intake of vitamins A and D, folate, calcium, iron, and ω-3 FAs from foods alone. We calculated the target doses of supplementation needed to shift 90% of participants to consume above the estimated average requirement and keep 90% below the tolerable upper limit. We identified products in the Dietary Supplement Label Database providing these target doses of supplementation.

RESULTS

The target dose for supplementation was ≥198 mcg retinol activity equivalents of total vitamin A (with ≤2063 mcg preformed retinol); 7-91 mcg vitamin D; 169-720 mcg dietary folate equivalents of folic acid; 383-943 mg calcium; 13-22 mg iron; and ≥59 mg ω-3 FAs. Out of 20,547 dietary supplements (including 421 prenatal products), 69 products (33 prenatal) contained all 6 nutrients; 7 products (2 prenatal) contained target doses for 5 nutrients. Only 1 product (not a prenatal) contained target doses for all 6 nutrients, but it currently costs ∼USD200/mo and requires 7 tablets per daily serving.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost no US dietary supplements provide key nutrients in the doses needed for pregnant women. Affordable and convenient products that fill the gap between food-based intake and estimated requirements of pregnancy without inducing excess intake are needed to support pregnant women and their offspring. Am J Clin Nutr 20XX;xx:xx-xx.

Targeting the Retinoic Acid Pathway to Eradicate Cancer Stem Cells

All-trans retinoic acid is a morphogen during embryogenesis and a teratogen. Cancer is an error of development, and the retinoic acid receptors (RAR) for all-trans retinoic acid play a role in cancer. Expression of the cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenases, which mediate the last step to the synthesis of all-trans retinoic acid, is deregulated in various human cancers. Inhibiting these enzymes using a variety of agents reduced the proliferation of lung cancer cells, reduced the proliferation and induced apoptosis of ovarian, prostate, squamous, and uterine cancer cells, and sensitised breast, colorectal and ovarian cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. RARγ is an oncogene within some cases of AML, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal cancer, clear cell renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer. Pan-RAR and RARγ antagonist inhibition of the action of RARγ led to necroptosis of human prostate and pediatric brain tumour cancer stem cells. Treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma cells with the flavenoid acacetin, which interferes with the action of RARγ, decreased cell growth and induced apoptosis. Targeting the retinoic acid pathway is promising regarding the development of new drugs to eradicate cancer stem cells.

Evaluation of the Role of Soybean Lecithin, Egg Yolk Lecithin, and Krill Oil in Promoting Ovarian Development in the Female Redclaw Crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus

The optimal supplementation of lipid nutrients in the diet showed crucial physiological functions in gonadal development and maturation in adult female aquatic animals. Four isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets with no extra lecithin supplementation (control), 2% soybean lecithin (SL), egg yolk lecithin (EL), or krill oil (KO) supplementation were formulated for Cherax quadricarinatus (72.32 ± 3.58 g). Ovary development and physiological characteristics of crayfish were evaluated after a 10-week feeding trial. The results indicated that SL, EL, or KO supplementation all significantly increased the gonadosomatic index, especially in the KO group. Crayfish fed the diet with SL showed the highest hepatosomatic index compared with those fed the other experimental diets. KO was more efficient than SL and EL in promoting triacylglycerol and cholesterol deposition in the ovary and hepatopancreas but also showed the lowest concentration of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum. KO significantly increased yolk granule deposition and accelerated oocyte maturation than other experimental groups. Furthermore, dietary phospholipids significantly enhanced the gonad-stimulating hormone concentration in the ovary and reduced the secretion of gonad-inhibiting hormones in the eyestalk. KO supplementation also significantly improved organic antioxidant capacity. From the ovarian lipidomics results, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine are two main glycerophospholipids that respond to different dietary phospholipids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially C18:2n-6, C18:3n-3, C20:4n-6, C20:5n-3, and C22:6n-3) were pivotal participants during ovarian development of crayfish regardless of lipid type. Combined with the ovarian transcriptome, the best positive function of KO was due to activated steroid hormone biosynthesis, sphingolipid signaling, retinol metabolism, lipolysis, starch and sucrose metabolism, vitamin digestion and absorption, and pancreatic secretion. As a consequence, dietary supplementation with SL, EL, or KO all improved the ovarian development quality of C. quadricarinatus, especially KO, which was the optimum choice for promoting ovary development in adult female C. quadricarinatus.

Serum fat-soluble vitamins and the menstrual cycle in women of childbearing age

Evidence suggests that fat-soluble vitamins are involved in reproduction, but their association with the menstrual cycle, the proxy of female fecundity, remains largely unexplored in women of childbearing age. Serum fat-soluble vitamin levels were measured by HPLC-MS/MS and menstrual cycle data were acquired from 3123 women of reproductive age in Nanjing, China, using standard questionnaires. Irregular and long menstrual cycles occurred in 725 (23.2%) and 604 (19.3%) participants, respectively. Participants with higher levels of vitamins A and K had increased odds of irregular menstrual cycles (vitamin A: OR = 1.39 (95% CI: 1.12, 1.74); vitamin K: OR = 1.41 (95% CI: 1.13, 1.76)) and long menstrual cycles (vitamin A: OR = 1.34 (95% CI: 1.06, 1.69); vitamin K: OR = 1.27 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.61)), and the relationship showed a linear dose-response pattern (P-overall < 0.05, P-nonlinearity > 0.05). Vitamin A was positively associated with the average menstrual cycle length (β: 1.83, 95% CI: 0.28, 3.39). Vitamins A and K were interacted in their associations with irregular menstrual cycles and long cycles. In sensitivity analysis with further exclusion of participants with abnormal thyroid function or a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the association of vitamins A and K with the menstrual cycle remained robust. This study indicates that higher serum vitamin A and K levels in women of childbearing age are significantly associated with higher odds of irregular and long menstrual cycles with a linear dose-response curve. Further investigations are warranted to determine the appropriate fat-soluble vitamin levels for women of childbearing age.

ALDH1A2-related disorder: A new genetic syndrome due to alteration of the retinoic acid pathway

Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1, Family Member A2 (ALDH1A2) is essential for the synthesis of retinoic acid from vitamin A. Studies in model organisms demonstrate a critical role for ALDH1A2 in embryonic development, yet few pathogenic variants are linked to congenital anomalies in humans. We present three siblings with multiple congenital anomaly syndrome linked to biallelic sequence variants in ALDH1A2. The major congenital malformations affecting these children include tetralogy of Fallot, absent thymus, diaphragmatic eventration, and talipes equinovarus. Upper airway anomalies, hypocalcemia, and dysmorphic features are newly reported in this manuscript. In vitro functional validation of variants indicated that substitutions reduced the expression of the enzyme. Our clinical and functional data adds to a recent report of biallelic ALDH1A2 pathogenic variants in two families with a similar constellation of congenital malformations. These findings provide further evidence for an autosomal recessive ALDH1A2-deficient recognizable malformation syndrome involving the diaphragm, cardiac and musculoskeletal systems.

Using follicular fluid metabolomics to investigate the association between air pollution and oocyte quality

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Our objective was to use metabolomics in a toxicological-relevant target tissue to gain insight into the biological processes that may underlie the negative association between air pollution exposure and oocyte quality.

METHODS

Our study included 125 women undergoing in vitro fertilization at an academic fertility center in Massachusetts, US (2005-2015). A follicular fluid sample was collected during oocyte retrieval and untargeted metabolic profiling was conducted using liquid chromatography with ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometry and two chromatography columns (C18 and HILIC). Daily exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone, fine particulate matter, and black carbon was estimated at the women's residence using spatiotemporal models and averaged over the period of ovarian stimulation (2-weeks). Multivariable linear regression models were used to evaluate the associations between the air pollutants, number of mature oocytes, and metabolic feature intensities. A meet-in-the-middle approach was used to identify overlapping features and metabolic pathways.

RESULTS

Of the air pollutants, NO2 exposure had the largest number of overlapping metabolites (C18: 105; HILIC: 91) and biological pathways (C18: 3; HILIC: 6) with number of mature oocytes. Key pathways of overlap included vitamin D3 metabolism (both columns), bile acid biosynthesis (both columns), C21-steroid hormone metabolism (HILIC), androgen and estrogen metabolism (HILIC), vitamin A metabolism (HILIC), carnitine shuttle (HILIC), and prostaglandin formation (C18). Three overlapping metabolites were confirmed with level-1 or level-2 evidence. For example, hypoxanthine, a metabolite that protects against oxidant-induced cell injury, was positively associated with NO2 exposure and negatively associated with number of mature oocytes. Minimal overlap was observed between the other pollutants and the number of mature oocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher exposure to NO2 during ovarian stimulation was associated with many metabolites and biologic pathways involved in endogenous vitamin metabolism, hormone synthesis, and oxidative stress that may mediate the observed associations with lower oocyte quality.

Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Reveals Yeast Cell Wall Products Influence the Serum Proteome Composition of Broiler Chickens

With an ever-growing market and continual financial pressures associated with the prohibition of antibiotic growth promoters, the poultry industry has had to rapidly develop non-antibiotic alternatives to increase production yields. A possible alternative is yeast and its derivatives, such as the yeast cell wall (YCW), which have been proposed to confer selected beneficial effects on the host animal. Here, the effect of YCW supplementation on the broiler chicken was investigated using a quantitative proteomic strategy, whereby serum was obtained from three groups of broilers fed with distinct YCW-based Gut Health Products (GHP) or a control basal diet. Development of a novel reagent enabled application of ProteoMiner™ technology for sample preparation and subsequent comparative quantitative proteomic analysis revealed proteins which showed a significant change in abundance (n = 167 individual proteins; p < 0.05); as well as proteins which were uniquely identified (n = 52) in, or absent (n = 37) from, GHP-fed treatment groups versus controls. An average of 7.1% of proteins showed changes in abundance with GHP supplementation. Several effects of these GHPs including immunostimulation (via elevated complement protein detection), potential alterations in the oxidative status of the animal (e.g., glutathione peroxidase and catalase), stimulation of metabolic processes (e.g., differential abundance of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase), as well as evidence of a possible hepatoprotective effect (attenuated levels of serum α-glutathione s-transferase) by one GHP feed supplement, were observed. It is proposed that specific protein detection may be indicative of GHP efficacy to stimulate broiler immune status, i.e., may be biomarkers of GHP efficacy. In summary, this work has developed a novel technology for the preparation of high dynamic range proteomic samples for LC-MS/MS analysis, is part of the growing area of livestock proteomics and, importantly, provides evidential support for beneficial effects that GHP supplementation has on the broiler chicken.

Insight into the differences in the toxicity mechanisms of dinotefuran enantiomers in zebrafish by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS

Dinotefuran is a chiral insecticide widely used to control Nilaparvata lugens in agriculture. However, little is known about the toxic effects of dinotefuran enantiomers on aquatic organisms. In this study, zebrafish were exposed to 1.00 and 10.00 mg/L dinotefuran enantiomers for 96 h, after which multivariate pattern recognition, metabolite identification, and pathway analysis were performed. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were then conducted to reveal the metabolic perturbations caused by dinotefuran enantiomers. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed the perturbation of five main pathways, including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis; phenylalanine metabolism; retinol metabolism; arginine and proline metabolism; and glycerophospholipid metabolism. These disturbed metabolic pathways were strongly correlated with energy, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Pathway analysis also indicated that the metabolic pathway changes induced by the same level of R and S-dinotefuran were enantioselective. Our research may provide better insight into the risk of chiral dinotefuran in aquatic organisms in the environment.

Retinoic acid and RARγ maintain satellite cell quiescence through regulation of translation initiation

In adult skeletal muscle, satellite cells are in a quiescent state, which is essential for the future activation of muscle homeostasis and regeneration. Multiple studies have investigated satellite cell proliferation and differentiation, but the molecular mechanisms that safeguard the quiescence of satellite cells remain largely unknown. In this study, we purposely activated dormant satellite cells by using various stimuli and captured the in vivo-preserved features from quiescence to activation transitions. We found that retinoic acid signaling was required for quiescence maintenance. Mechanistically, retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) binds to and stimulates genes responsible for Akt dephosphorylation and subsequently inhibits overall protein translation initiation in satellite cells. Furthermore, the alleviation of retinoic acid signaling released the satellite cells from quiescence, but this restraint was lost in aged cells. Retinoic acid also preserves the quiescent state during satellite cell isolation, overcoming the cellular stress caused by the isolation process. We conclude that active retinoic acid signaling contributes to the maintenance of the quiescent state of satellite cells through regulation of the protein translation initiation process.

Effect of Supplementation of Vitamin A on Growth, Haemato-Biochemical Composition, and Antioxidant Ability in Cyprinus carpio var. communis

Vitamin A requirement in fingerling common carp, Cyprinus carpio var. communis (1.64 ± 0.02 g; ABW ± SD), was evaluated by conducting a 10 week growth experiment. Casein-gelatin-based test diets representing six graded levels of vitamin A (0, 0.03, 0.07, 0.11, 0.15, and 0.19 g/kg, dry diet) were designed and fed to the triplicate group of fish at 08:00 and 16:00 hrs at the rate of 4% body weight per day. Growth parameters like live weight gain (LWG %), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), specific growth rate (SGR), and body protein deposition (BPD) improved significantly (P < 0.05) with each elevated dietary vitamin A level and found maximum growth rate along with the best- FCR at 0.11 g/kg diet. Dietary vitamin A levels also significantly (P < 0.05) affected haematological parameters of the fish. Highest haemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte count (RBC), haematocrit content (Hct %), and lowest leucocyte count (WBC) were observed at 0.11 g/kg vitamin A fed diet compared to all the diets. Highest protein and lowest fat content were observed in the group of fingerlings fed with 0.11 g/kg vitamin A containing diet. Blood and serum profile also showed some significant (P < 0.05) differences with elevating concentration of dietary vitamin A levels. Serum parameters like aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and cholesterol values decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 0.11 g/kg vitamin A fed diet compared to control diet. However, except albumin the other electrolytes improved significantly (P < 0.05) and maximal values of these parameters were also evident at 0.11 g/kg of vitamin A fed diet. Better value of TBARS was found in the group that fed 0.11 g/kg vitamin A diet. Hepatosomatic index and condition factor improved significantly (P < 0.05) with fish fed at optimal dose 0.11 g/kg of vitamin A diet. Based on quadratic regression analysis of LWG%, FCR, BPD, Hb, and calcium values of C. carpio var. communis against the varying levels of dietary vitamin A, an optimum growth, best FCR, higher BPD, Hb, and Ca values lie in the range of 0.10 to 0.12 g/kg diet, respectively. The data generated during this study would be important in developing vitamin A balanced feed for successful intensive culture of C. carpio var. communis.

Retinoic acid promotes tissue vitamin A status and modulates adipose tissue metabolism of neonatal rats exposed to maternal high-fat diet-induced obesity

Maternal obesity may compromise the micronutrient status of the offspring. Vitamin A (VA) is an essential micronutrient during neonatal development. Its active metabolite, retinoic acid (RA), is a key regulator of VA homeostasis, which also regulates adipose tissue (AT) development in obese adults. However, its role on VA status and AT metabolism in neonates was unknown and it was determined in the present study. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised to a normal fat diet (NFD) or a high fat diet (HFD). From postnatal day 5 (P5) to P20, half of the HFD pups received oral RA every 3 d (HFDRA group). NFD pups and the remaining HFD pups (HFD group) received placebo. Six hours after dosing on P8, P14 and P20, n 4 pups per group were euthanised for different measures. It was found that total retinol concentration in neonatal liver and lung was significantly lower in the HFD group than the NFD group, while the concentrations were significantly increased in the HFDRA group. The HFD group exhibited significantly higher body weight (BW) gain, AT mass, serum leptin and adiponectin, and gene expression of these adipokines in white adipose tissue compared with the NFD group; these measures were significantly reduced in the HFDRA group. BAT UCP2 and UCP3 gene expression were significantly higher in pups receiving RA. In conclusion, repeated RA treatment during the suckling period improved the tissue VA status of neonates exposed to maternal obesity. RA also exerted a regulatory effect on neonatal obesity development by reducing BW gain and adiposity and modulating AT metabolism.

Women's health: optimal nutrition throughout the lifecycle

Sex differences are an important consideration when researching and establishing policies for nutrition and optimal health. For women's health, there are important physiologic, neurologic, and hormonal distinctions throughout the lifecycle that impact nutritional needs. Distinct from those for men, these nutritional needs must be translated into appropriate nutrition policy that aims to not only avoid overt nutritional deficiency, but also to promote health and minimize risk for chronic disease. Through a series of webinars, scientific experts discussed the advances in the understanding of the unique nutritional needs, challenges and opportunities of the various life stages for women across the life course and identified emerging nutritional interventions that may be beneficial for women. Nevertheless, there is concern that existing nutrition policy intended for women's health is falling short with examples of programs that are focused more on delivering calories than achieving optimal nutrition. To be locally effective, targeted nutrition needs to offer different proposals for different cultural, socio-economic, and geographic communities, and needs to be applicable at all stages of growth and development. There must be adequate access to nutritious foods, and the information to understand and implement proven nutritional opportunities. Experts provided recommendations for improvement of current entitlement programs that will address accessibility and other social and environmental issues to support women properly throughout the lifecycle.

Reduced Retinoic Acid Signaling During Gastrulation Induces Developmental Microcephaly

Retinoic acid (RA) is a central signaling molecule regulating multiple developmental decisions during embryogenesis. Excess RA induces head malformations, primarily by expansion of posterior brain structures at the expense of anterior head regions, i.e., hindbrain expansion. Despite this extensively studied RA teratogenic effect, a number of syndromes exhibiting microcephaly, such as DiGeorge, Vitamin A Deficiency, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and others, have been attributed to reduced RA signaling. This causative link suggests a requirement for RA signaling during normal head development in all these syndromes. To characterize this novel RA function, we studied the involvement of RA in the early events leading to head formation in Xenopus embryos. This effect was mapped to the earliest RA biosynthesis in the embryo within the gastrula Spemann-Mangold organizer. Head malformations were observed when reduced RA signaling was induced in the endogenous Spemann-Mangold organizer and in the ectopic organizer of twinned embryos. Two embryonic retinaldehyde dehydrogenases, ALDH1A2 (RALDH2) and ALDH1A3 (RALDH3) are initially expressed in the organizer and subsequently mark the trunk and the migrating leading edge mesendoderm, respectively. Gene-specific knockdowns and CRISPR/Cas9 targeting show that RALDH3 is a key enzyme involved in RA production required for head formation. These observations indicate that in addition to the teratogenic effect of excess RA on head development, RA signaling also has a positive and required regulatory role in the early formation of the head during gastrula stages. These results identify a novel RA activity that concurs with its proposed reduction in syndromes exhibiting microcephaly.

Role of cellular retinol-binding protein, type 1 and retinoid homeostasis in the adult mouse heart: A multi-omic approach

The main active metabolite of Vitamin A, all-trans retinoic acid (RA), is required for proper cellular function and tissue organization. Heart development has a well-defined requirement for RA, but there is limited research on the role of RA in the adult heart. Homeostasis of RA includes regulation of membrane receptors, chaperones, enzymes, and nuclear receptors. Cellular retinol-binding protein, type 1 (CRBP1), encoded by retinol-binding protein, type 1 (Rbp1), regulates RA homeostasis by delivering vitamin A to enzymes for RA synthesis and protecting it from non-specific oxidation. In this work, a multi-omics approach was used to characterize the effect of CRBP1 loss using the Rbp1^-/- mouse. Retinoid homeostasis was disrupted in Rbp1^-/- mouse heart tissue, as seen by a 33% and 24% decrease in RA levels in the left and right ventricles, respectively, compared to wild-type mice (WT). To further inform on the effect of disrupted RA homeostasis, we conducted high-throughput targeted metabolomics. A total of 222 metabolite and metabolite combinations were analyzed, with 33 having differential abundance between Rbp1^-/- and WT hearts. Additionally, we performed global proteome profiling to further characterize the impact of CRBP1 loss in adult mouse hearts. More than 2606 unique proteins were identified, with 340 proteins having differential expression between Rbp1^-/- and WT hearts. Pathway analysis performed on metabolomic and proteomic data revealed pathways related to cellular metabolism and cardiac metabolism were the most disrupted in Rbp1^-/- mice. Together, these studies characterize the effect of CRBP1 loss and reduced RA in the adult heart.

Association of lower vitamin a levels in neonates and their mothers with increased risk of neonatal late-onset sepsis: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

In developing countries, neonatal sepsis is one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity. Vitamin A deficiency also affects the immune system severely and is associated with various neonatal infections. We aimed to compare maternal and neonatal vitamin A levels among neonates with and without late-onset sepsis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

40 eligible infants were entered into this case-control study according to inclusion criteria. The case group included 20 term or near-term infants who had late-onset neonatal sepsis from three to seven days of life. The control group consisted of 20 term or near-term infants who were icteric hospitalized neonates without sepsis. Demographic, clinical and paraclinical features, as well as neonatal and maternal vitamin A levels, were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The average gestational age of the neonates was 37.1 ± 1.2, ranging from 35 to 39 days. There was a significant difference between the septic and non-septic groups in terms of white blood cell and neutrophil count, C-reactive protein, and neonatal and maternal vitamin A levels. A Spearman correlation analysis showed a significant direct correlation among maternal and neonatal vitamin A levels (correlation coefficient = 0.507; P-value = 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that neonates' vitamin A level had a significant direct association with sepsis (OR: 0.541; P-value=0.017).

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated the association of lower vitamin A levels in neonates and their mothers with an increased risk of late-onset sepsis, which emphasizes the importance of the consideration of vitamin A level evaluation and its appropriate neonatal and maternal supplementation.

Early nutritional influences of cardiovascular health

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence shows that nutritional choices during children's formative years, including prenatally, impacts the development of adult onset cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

AREAS COVERED

This literature review aims to synthesize the current body of evidence on nutritional factors, from conception through adolescence, which may influence a person's risk factors for future development of CVD.

EXPERT OPINION

Given the escalating healthcare costs associated with CVD, it is imperative that medical professionals and scientists remain steadfast in prioritizing and promoting early CVD prevention, even within the first few years of life. Though not the only contributing risk factor, diet is a modifiable risk factor and has been shown to have a profound impact on the reduction of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in adult literature. Nutritional choices should be targeted on multiple levels: prenatally with the mother, individually with the patient, in conjunction with their family unit, and also within the broader community wherein they reside. Healthcare providers can play a key advocacy role for local and national food environment policy changes.

A master of all trades - linking retinoids to different signalling pathways through the multi-purpose receptor STRA6

Retinoids are a group of vitamin A-related chemicals that are essential to chordate mammals. They regulate a number of basic processes, including embryogenesis and vision. From ingestion to metabolism and the subsequent cellular effects, retinoid levels are tightly regulated in the organism to prevent toxicity. One component of this network, the membrane receptor STRA6, has been shown to be essential in facilitating the cellular entry and exit of retinol. However, recent data suggests that STRA6 may not function merely as a retinoid transporter but also act as a complex signalling hub in its own right, being able to affect cell fate through the integration of retinoid signalling with other key pathways, such as those involving p53, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β catenin and calcium. This may open new therapeutic strategies in diseases like cancer, where these pathways are often compromised. Here, we look at the growing evidence regarding the novel roles of STRA6 beyond its well characterized classic functions.

Disparities in Risks of Inadequate and Excessive Intake of Micronutrients during Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Inadequate or excessive intake of micronutrients in pregnancy has potential to negatively impact maternal/offspring health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to compare risks of inadequate or excessive micronutrient intake in diverse females with singleton pregnancies by strata of maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, and prepregnancy BMI.

METHODS

Fifteen observational cohorts in the US Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Consortium assessed participant dietary intake with 24-h dietary recalls (n = 1910) or food-frequency questionnaires (n = 7891) from 1999-2019. We compared the distributions of usual intake of 19 micronutrients from food alone (15 cohorts; n = 9801) and food plus dietary supplements (10 cohorts with supplement data; n = 7082) to estimate the proportion with usual daily intakes below their age-specific daily Estimated Average Requirement (EAR), above their Adequate Intake (AI), and above their Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL), overall and within sociodemographic and anthropometric subgroups.

RESULTS

Risk of inadequate intake from food alone ranged from 0% to 87%, depending on the micronutrient and assessment methodology. When dietary supplements were included, some women were below the EAR for vitamin D (20-38%), vitamin E (17-22%), and magnesium (39-41%); some women were above the AI for vitamin K (63-75%), choline (7%), and potassium (37-53%); and some were above the UL for folic acid (32-51%), iron (39-40%), and zinc (19-20%). Highest risks for inadequate intakes were observed among participants with age 14-18 y (6 nutrients), non-White race or Hispanic ethnicity (10 nutrients), less than a high school education (9 nutrients), or obesity (9 nutrients).

CONCLUSIONS

Improved diet quality is needed for most pregnant females. Even with dietary supplement use, >20% of participants were at risk of inadequate intake of ≥1 micronutrients, especially in some population subgroups. Pregnancy may be a window of opportunity to address disparities in micronutrient intake that could contribute to intergenerational health inequalities.

Retinaldehyde Dehydrogenase Inhibition-Related Adverse Outcome Pathway: Potential Risk of Retinoic Acid Synthesis Inhibition during Embryogenesis

Retinoic acid (RA) is one of the factors crucial for cell growth, differentiation, and embryogenesis; it interacts with the retinoic acid receptor and retinoic acid X receptor to eventually regulate target gene expression in chordates. RA is transformed from retinaldehyde via oxidization by retinaldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH), which belongs to the family of oxidoreductases. Several chemicals, including disulphiram, diethylaminobenzaldehyde, and SB-210661, can effectively inhibit RALDH activity, potentially causing reproductive and developmental toxicity. The modes of action can be sequentially explained based on the molecular initiating event toward key events, and finally the adverse outcomes. Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) is a conceptual and theoretical framework that describes the sequential chain of casually liked events at different biological levels from molecular events to adverse effects. In the present review, we discussed a recently registered AOP (AOP₂₉₇; inhibition of retinaldehyde dehydrogenase leads to population decline) to explain and support the weight of evidence for RALDH inhibition-related developmental toxicity using the existing knowledge.

The role of polymorphism in various potential genes on polycystic ovary syndrome susceptibility and pathogenesis

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathies affecting the early reproductive age in women, whose pathophysiology perplexes many researchers till today. This syndrome is classically categorized by hyperandrogenism and/or hyperandrogenemia, menstrual and ovulatory dysfunction, bulky multi follicular ovaries on Ultrasonography (USG), and metabolic abnormalities such as hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, obesity. The etiopathogenesis of PCOS is not fully elucidated, but it seems that the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, ovarian, and/or adrenal androgen secretion may contribute to developing the syndrome. Infertility and poor reproductive health in women's lives are highly associated with elevated levels of androgens. Studies with ovarian theca cells taken from PCOS women have demonstrated increased androgen production due to augmented ovarian steroidogenesis attributed to mainly altered expression of critical enzymes (Cytochrome P450 enzymes: CYP17, CYP21, CYP19, CYP11A) in the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway. Despite the heterogeneity of PCOS, candidate gene studies are the widely used technique to delineate the genetic variants and analyze for the correlation of androgen biosynthesis pathway and those affecting the secretion or action of insulin with PCOS etiology. Linkage and association studies have predicted the relationship between genetic variants and PCOS risk among families or populations. Several genes have been proposed as playing a role in the etiopathogenesis of PCOS, and the presence of mutations and/or polymorphisms has been discovered, which suggests that PCOS has a vital heritable component. The following review summarizes the influence of polymorphisms in crucial genes of the steroidogenesis pathway leading to intraovarian hyperandrogenism which can result in PCOS.

Erf Affects Commitment and Differentiation of Osteoprogenitor Cells in Cranial Sutures via the Retinoic Acid Pathway

ETS2 repressor factor (ERF) haploinsufficiency causes late-onset craniosynostosis (CRS) (OMIM entry 600775; CRS4) in humans, while in mice Erf insufficiency also leads to a similar multisuture synostosis phenotype preceded by mildly reduced calvarium ossification. However, neither the cell types affected nor the effects per se have been identified so far. Here, we establish an ex vivo system for the expansion of suture-derived mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (sdMSCs) and analyze the role of Erf levels in their differentiation. Cellular data suggest that Erf insufficiency specifically decreases osteogenic differentiation of sdMSCs, resulting in the initially delayed mineralization of the calvarium. Transcriptome analysis indicates that Erf is required for efficient osteogenic lineage commitment of sdMSCs. Elevated retinoic acid catabolism due to increased levels of the cytochrome P450 superfamily member Cyp26b1 as a result of decreased Erf levels appears to be the underlying mechanism leading to defective differentiation. Exogenous addition of retinoic acid can rescue the osteogenic differentiation defect, suggesting that Erf affects cranial bone mineralization during skull development through retinoic acid gradient regulation.

Genome-wide DNA methylation and transcription analysis in tongue and biceps femoris muscles of cloned pigs with macroglossia

Cloned animals are prone to abnormal phenotypes such as enlarged tongue, fetal oversize, and progeria. In the present study, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing and mRNA sequencing were performed on tongue and biceps femoris muscles of cloned piglets with and without macroglossia, in an attempt to elucidate the epigenetic causes of the macroglossia phenotype. We identified 14 958 and 18 752 differentially methylated regions in the tongue and biceps femoris muscles, respectively, of macroglossia piglets and these correspond to 4574 and 4772 differentially methylated genes compared with the control group (piglets without macroglossia). Larger methylation difference was found in tongue muscle than in biceps femoris muscle. In total, 114 genes in tongue and 72 genes in biceps femoris muscles were found to be differentially expressed between the two groups. Of these differentially expressed genes in tongue muscle, 31 were also differentially methylated genes, among which DIO3 and ZIC1 were imprinting or predicted imprinting genes. These two and another six overlapping genes (ALDH1A2, MKX, MAB21L2, CA3, RANBP3L, and MYL10) are crucial factors involved in embryonic development or tissue and organ development. GO enrichment analysis suggested possible alteration of these processes. Our study provides novel molecular insights into the formation of macroglossia in cloned pigs.

Molecular Characterisation of Uterine Endometrial Proteins during Early Stages of Pregnancy in Pigs by MALDI TOF/TOF

The molecular mechanism underlying embryonic implantation is vital to understand the correct communications between endometrium and developing conceptus during early stages of pregnancy. This study’s objective was to determine molecular changes in the uterine endometrial proteome during the preimplantation and peri-implantation between 9 days (9D), 12 days (12D), and 16 days (16D) of pregnant Polish Large White (PLW) gilts. 2DE-MALDI-TOF/TOF and ClueGO^TM approaches were employed to analyse the biological networks and molecular changes in porcine endometrial proteome during maternal recognition of pregnancy. A total of sixteen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using 2-DE gels and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Comparison between 9D and 12D of pregnancy identified APOA1, CAPZB, LDHB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB, TTR upregulated DEPs, and ANXA5, SMS downregulated DEPs. Comparison between 9D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, APOA1, ACTB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB upregulated DEPs and ANXA5, SMS, LDHB, ACTR3, HP, ENO3, OAT downregulated DEPs. However, a comparison between 12D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, ACTB upregulated DEPs, and CRYM, ANXA4, ANXA5, CAPZB, LDHB, ACTR3, CCT5, ENO3, OAT, TTR down-regulated DEPs. Outcomes of this study revealed key proteins and their interactions with metabolic pathways involved in the recognition and establishment of early pregnancy in PLW gilts.

Metabolism of Neonatal Vitamin A Supplementation: A Systematic Review

A systematic review was conducted to summarize the absorption, transport, storage, and metabolism of oral neonatal vitamin A supplementation (NVAS). This review focused specifically on the neonatal period (first 28 d of life for humans) to inform guidance by WHO on recommendations related to NVAS. A systematic search of international and regional databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria were human or animal studies that gave oral vitamin A as a single or limited number of doses to apparently healthy neonates. Studies evaluating fortification or food-based approaches, dosing with retinoic acid, or studies of neonatal models of disease were excluded. The search retrieved 8847 unique records. After screening by title and abstract, 88 were screened using the full text, and 35 records met inclusion criteria: 13 human and 22 animal studies. Studies indicate that high-dose NVAS is absorbed well by neonates, typically mirroring fat absorption. Doses were primarily stored in the liver and transiently increased in the lung, kidney, spleen, adrenal glands, brain, skin, and adipose tissue, generally with a dose-response. Serum retinol and retinyl esters also transiently increased following NVAS. Although minimal acute adverse effects are noted, there is a lack of data supporting NVAS for improving organ maturation or sustained delivery to target organs. Research gaps include the physiological effects of the short-term increase of vitamin A concentrations in extrahepatic tissues, or whether there are unknown adverse effects over time.

Vitamin A Update: Forms, Sources, Kinetics, Detection, Function, Deficiency, Therapeutic Use and Toxicity

Vitamin A is a group of vital micronutrients widely present in the human diet. Animal-based products are a rich source of the retinyl ester form of the vitamin, while vegetables and fruits contain carotenoids, most of which are provitamin A. Vitamin A plays a key role in the correct functioning of multiple physiological functions. The human organism can metabolize natural forms of vitamin A and provitamin A into biologically active forms (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid), which interact with multiple molecular targets, including nuclear receptors, opsin in the retina and, according to the latest research, also some enzymes. In this review, we aim to provide a complex view on the present knowledge about vitamin A ranging from its sources through its physiological functions to consequences of its deficiency and metabolic fate up to possible pharmacological administration and potential toxicity. Current analytical methods used for its detection in real samples are included as well.

Valproic Acid Induces Autism-Like Synaptic and Behavioral Deficits by Disrupting Histone Acetylation of Prefrontal Cortex ALDH1A1 in Rats

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the impact of valproic acid (VPA) on the histone acetylation of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 (ALDH1A1) and the mechanism underlying VPA-induced autism-like behavior.

Methods

Female Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with VPA during gestation to establish an autism model in their offspring. Some offspring prenatally exposed to VPA were randomly treated with MS-275, one histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, or retinoic acid (RA) after birth. Behavioral tests were conducted on the offspring 6 weeks after birth. Electrophysiological experiments were performed to investigate long-term potentiation (LTP) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The expression levels of AMPA receptors (GluA1 and 2), NMDA receptors (GluN1 and 2), synapsin 1 (SYN1), HDAC, acetylated histone 3 (AcH3), RA receptor alpha (RARα), and ALDH1A1 in the PFC were measured by Western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. ALDH enzyme activity in PFC tissue was detected using a Micro ALDH Assay Kit. The RA level in the PFC was measured using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. A chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiment explored the interaction between the ALDH1A1 gene and AcH3.

Results

Offspring prenatally exposed to VPA showed autism-like behavior, upregulated the levels of LTP and GluN2A, GluA1, and SYN1 proteins relevant to synaptic plasticity in the PFC. The expression levels of HDAC3 mRNA and protein were increased. On the other hand, there was a significant reduction in the levels of AcH3, RARα, RA, ALDH1A1 mRNA and protein, the level of ALDH activity and AcH3 enrichment in the ALDH1A1 promoter region in VPA-induced offspring. Administration of MS-275 in VPA offspring significantly elevated the levels of AcH3, ALDH1A1 mRNA and protein, ALDH activity, RA, the level of RARα protein and the binding of AcH3 to the ALDH1A1 promoter. In addition, the GluA1 protein level and LTP were reduced, and most behavioral deficits were reversed. After RA supplementation in the VPA-treated offspring, the RA and RARα protein levels were significantly upregulated, GluA1 protein and LTP were downregulated, and most autism-like behavioral deficits were effectively reversed.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that VPA impairs histoneacetylation of ALDH1A1 and downregulates the RA-RARα pathway. Such epigenetic modification of ALDH1A1 by VPA leads to autism-like synaptic and behavioral deficits.

Metabolomics reveals the reproductive abnormality in female zebrafish exposed to environmentally relevant levels of climbazole

Climbazole (CBZ) ubiquitously detected in the aquatic environment may disrupt fish reproductive function. Thus far, the previous study has focused on its transcriptional impact of steroidogenesis-related genes on zebrafish, but the underlying toxic mechanism still needs further investigation at the metabolic level. In this study, adult zebrafish were chronically exposed to CBZ at concentrations of 0.1 (corresponding to the real concentration in surface water), 10, and 1000 μg/L and evaluated for reproductive function by egg production, with subsequent ovarian tissue samples taken for histology, metabolomics, and other biochemical analysis. After 28 days' exposure, fecundity was significantly decreased in all exposure groups, with the inhibition of oocytes in varying developmental stages to a certain degree. The decrease in retinoic acid and sex hormones, down-regulated genes important in steroidogenesis, and increase in oxidized/reduced glutathione ratio and occurrence of apoptotic cells were observed in zebrafish ovaries following exposure to CBZ even at environmentally realistic concentrations, suggesting that alternations in steroidogenesis and oxidative stress can play significant roles in CBZ-triggered reproductive toxicity. Besides, mass spectrometry imaging analysis validated the results from metabolomics analysis. Our findings provide novel perspectives for unveiling the mechanism of reproductive dysfunction by CBZ and highlight its risk to fish reproduction.

Perspective on Similarities and Possible Overlaps of Congenital Disease Formation-Exemplified on a Case of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and Neuroblastoma in a Neonate

The coincidence of two rare diseases such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and neuroblastoma is exceptional. With an incidence of around 2–3:10,000 and 1:8000 for either disease occurring on its own, the chance of simultaneous presentation of both pathologies at birth is extremely low. Unfortunately, the underlying processes leading to congenital malformation and neonatal tumors are not yet thoroughly understood. There are several hypotheses revolving around the formation of CDH and neuroblastoma. The aim of our study was to put the respective hypotheses of disease formation as well as known factors in this process into perspective regarding their similarities and possible overlaps of congenital disease formation. We present the joint occurrence of these two rare diseases based on a patient presentation and immunochemical prognostic marker evaluation. The aim of this manuscript is to elucidate possible similarities in the pathogeneses of both disease entities. Discussed are the role of toxins, cell differentiation, the influence of retinoic acid and NMYC as well as of hypoxia. The detailed discussion reveals that some of the proposed pathophysiological mechanisms of both malformations have common aspects. Especially disturbances of the retinoic acid pathway and NMYC expression can influence and disrupt cell differentiation in either disease. Due to the rarity of both diseases, interdisciplinary efforts and multi-center studies are needed to investigate the reasons for congenital malformations and their interlinkage with neonatal tumor disease.

Retinoids in the visual cycle: role of the retinal G protein-coupled receptor

Driven by the energy of a photon, the visual pigments in rod and cone photoreceptor cells isomerize 11-cis-retinal to the all-trans configuration. This photochemical reaction initiates the signal transduction pathway that eventually leads to the transmission of a visual signal to the brain and leaves the opsins insensitive to further light stimulation. For the eye to restore light sensitivity, opsins require recharging with 11-cis-retinal. This trans-cis back conversion is achieved through a series of enzymatic reactions composing the retinoid (visual) cycle. Although it is evident that the classical retinoid cycle is critical for vision, the existence of an adjunct pathway for 11-cis-retinal regeneration has been debated for many years. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-retinal G protein-coupled receptor (RGR) has been identified previously as a mammalian retinaldehyde photoisomerase homologous to retinochrome found in invertebrates. Using pharmacological, genetic, and biochemical approaches, researchers have now established the physiological relevance of the RGR in 11-cis-retinal regeneration. The photoisomerase activity of RGR in the RPE and Müller glia explains how the eye can remain responsive in daylight. In this review, we will focus on retinoid metabolism in the eye and visual chromophore regeneration mediated by RGR.

Overlapping Molecular Pathways Leading to Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fragile X Syndrome, and Targeted Treatments

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are subdivided into idiopathic (unknown) etiology and secondary, based on known etiology. There are hundreds of causes of ASD and most of them are genetic in origin or related to the interplay of genetic etiology and environmental toxicology. Approximately 30 to 50% of the etiologies can be identified when using a combination of available genetic testing. Many of these gene mutations are either core components of the Wnt signaling pathway or their modulators. The full mutation of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene leads to fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common cause of monogenic origin of ASD, accounting for ~ 2% of the cases. There is an overlap of molecular mechanisms in those with idiopathic ASD and those with FXS, an interaction between various signaling pathways is suggested during the development of the autistic brain. This review summarizes the cross talk between neurobiological pathways found in ASD and FXS. These signaling pathways are currently under evaluation to target specific treatments in search of the reversal of the molecular abnormalities found in both idiopathic ASD and FXS.