Involvement of toll-like receptor 2 and 4 in association between dyslipidemia and osteoclast differentiation in apolipoprotein E deficient rat periodontium

Design and synthesis of phenoxy methyl-oxadiazole compounds against Alzheimer's disease

This study examines the synthesis and evaluation of 11 newly developed compounds as potential anti-Alzheimer's agents that occur via cholinesterase and β-secretase inhibition. The compounds were tested for their inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) using the modified Ellman method. The results showed that several compounds exhibited significant inhibition of AChE, particularly compounds 6d, 7a, and 7e, which demonstrated high inhibitory activity at lower concentrations, with IC50 values of 0.120, 0.039, and 0.063 µM, respectively. However, the compounds showed limited effectiveness against BChE, with only a few compounds exhibiting moderate inhibition. Compound 7e showed an inhibitory effect against BACE-1 close to that of the standard drug. Structural analysis revealed that the compounds with substituted benzothiazole and thiazole moieties exhibited the most promising inhibitory activity. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of these synthesized derivatives as a treatment against Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, the structure, stability, and properties of the active compounds were further investigated using density functional theory calculations. As a final note, the utilization of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies allowed us to elucidate the action mechanism of the active compounds and gain insights into the structure-activity relationship against AChE and β-secretase proteins. These computational techniques provide valuable information on the binding modes, interactions with target enzymes, dynamic behavior, and conformational changes of the compounds, enabling a comprehensive understanding of their biological activity.

Extrusion and chlorogenic acid treatment increase the ordered structure and resistant starch levels in rice starch with amelioration of gut lipid metabolism in obese rats

Dietary interventions are receiving increasing attention for maintaining host health and diminishing disease risk. This study endeavored to elucidate the intervention effect of chlorogenic acid coupled with extruded rice starch (CGA-ES) in mitigating lipid metabolism disorders induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in rats. First, a significant increase in resistant starch (RS) and a decrease in the predicted glycemic index (pGI) were observed in CGA-ES owing to the formation of an ordered structure (Dm, single helix, and V-type crystalline structure) and partly released CGA. Compared to a physical mixture of starch and chlorogenic acid (CGA + S), CGA-ES showed a more potent effect in alleviating lipid metabolism disorders, manifesting as reduced levels of blood glucose, serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP), as well as body weight. It is correlated with an improvement in the gut microecology, featuring bacteria known for cholesterol reduction and butyrate production (Butyricicoccus, Bifidobacterium, Fusicatenibacter, Turicibacter, and Enterorhabdus), along with bile acid, butyrate and PG (PG (17:0/16:0) and PG (18:1/16:0)). The RS fraction of CGA-ES was found to be the main contributor. These findings would provide evidence for future studies to regulate lipid metabolism disorders, and even obesity using CGA-ES.

Reduction of neutral lipid reservoirs, bioconversion and untargeted metabolomics reveal distinct roles for vitamin K isoforms on lipid metabolism

Vitamin K isoforms are known as co-factors for the synthesis of blood-clotting proteins, but several other bioactivities were reported. In this work, we isolated a vitamin K1-analogue (OH-PhQ) from the cyanobacterium Tychonema sp. LEGE 07196 with lipid reducing activity. OH-PhQ reduced neutral lipid reservoirs with an EC50 value of 31 μM after 48 h exposure in zebrafish larvae, while other vitamin K isoforms had EC50 values of 21.1 μM (K2) and 1.2 μM (K3). No lipid reducing activity was observed for K1 up to 50 μM. The presence of vitamin K isoforms was studied in zebrafish after exposure (OH-PhQ, K1, K2 and K3), and a clear preference for bioconversion was observed to retain K1 and OH-PhQ. Untargeted metabolomics revealed different biological effects for vitamin K isoforms on the subclass and metabolite level, but similarities were present on the compound class level, particularly on the regulation of glycerophospholipids. Our data showed for the first time a lipid reducing activity of OH-PhQ and performed a comparative analysis of vitamin K isoforms, which could be important for the development of future nutraceuticals or food supplements.

Parental betaine supplementation promotes gosling growth with epigenetic modulation of IGF gene family in the liver

Betaine is widely used as a feed additive in the chicken industry to promote laying performance and growth performance, yet it is unknown whether betaine can be used in geese to improve the laying performance of goose breeders and the growth traits of offspring goslings. In this study, laying goose breeders at 39 wk of age were fed basal (Control, CON) or betaine-supplemented diets at low (2.5 g/kg, LBT) or high (5 g/kg, HBT) levels for 7 wk, and the breeder eggs laid in the last week were collected for incubation. Offspring goslings were examined at 35 and 63 d of age. The laying rate tended to be increased (P = 0.065), and the feed efficiency of the breeders was improved by betaine supplementation, while the average daily gain of the offspring goslings was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) in serum and liver were significantly increased in the HBT group (P < 0.05), with age-dependent alterations of serum T3 levels. Concurrently, hepatic mRNA expression of the IGF gene family was significantly increased in goslings derived from betaine-treated breeders (P < 0.05). A higher ratio of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-immunopositive nuclei was found in the liver sections of the HBT group, which was confirmed by significantly upregulated hepatic expression of PCNA mRNA and protein (P < 0.05). Moreover, hepatic expression of thyroxine deiodinase type 1 (Dio1) and thyroid hormone receptor β (TRβ) was also significantly upregulated in goslings of the HBT group (P < 0.05). These changes were associated with significantly higher levels of global DNA 5-mC methylation, together with increased expression of methyl transfer genes (P < 0.05), including betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT), glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT), and DNA (cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). The promoter regions of IGF-2 genes, as well as the predicted TRβ binding site on the IGF-2 gene, were significantly hypomethylated (P < 0.05). These results indicate that gosling growth can be improved by dietary betaine supplementation in goose breeders via epigenetic modulation of the IGF gene family, especially IGF-2, in the liver.

The corrective role of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for the genes controlling hypothalamus-pituitary-testis-axis in male obesity-associated secondary hypogonadism

Background

Obesity is one of the most prevalent and perilous health affairs. Male obesity-associated secondary hypogonadism (MOSH) is one of many of its complexities, which is mounting in parallel with the aggravation of obesity. Magnetic nanoparticles seem to be an advanced favorable trend in multiple biomedical fields.

Aim

In this study, we explore the therapeutic effects of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) coated with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) on an obese male rat model with MOSH syndrome, comparing their impacts with a well-known anti-obesity medication (Orlistat).

Methods

42 male albino rats split into 7 equal groups: 1-negative control: nonobese, untreated; 35 rats fed the high fat-high fructose (HFHF) diet for a period of 12 weeks. Obese rats splitted into 6 equal groups; 2-positive control: obese untreated; 3-obese given Orlistat (30 mg/kg); 4-obese given CMC-SPIONs (25 mgFe/kg); 5-obese given CMC-SPIONs (50 mgFe/kg); 6-obese given CMC-SPIONs(25 mgFe/kg) + Orlistat (30 mg/kg), 7-obese given CMC-SPIONs (50 mgFe/kg) + Orlistat (30 mg/kg); all treatments given orally for 4 weeks. During sacrifice, blood serum and sectioned hypothalamic, pituitary, testicular, and adipose tissues were collected for biochemical and biomolecular assessments.

Results

The HFHF diet for 12 weeks resulted in a significant upsurge in body weight, body mass index, serum fasting glucose, insulin resistance, TAG, total cholesterol, and LDL-c; HDL-c was dropped. Serum FSH, LH, and testosterone values declined. A significant disorder in expression levels of genes regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular-axis pathway. Hypothalamic GnRH, Kisspeptin-1, Kisspeptin-r1, and Adipo-R1 values declined. GnIH and Leptin-R1 values raised up. Pituitary GnRH-R values declined. Testicular tissue STAR, HSD17B3, and CYP19A1 values declined. Adipose tissue adiponectin declined, while leptin raised up. CMC-SPIONs 25-50 mg could modulate the deranged biochemical parameters and correct the deranged expression levels of all previous genes. Co-treatments revealed highly synergistic effects on all parameters. Overall, CMC-SPIONs have significant efficiency whether alone or with Orlisat in limiting obesity and consequence subfertility.

Conclusion

CMC-SPIONs act as an incoming promising contender for obesity and MOSH disorders management, and need more studies on their mechanisms.

Phytochemical analysis and bioactivity assessment of five medicinal plants from Pakistan: Exploring polyphenol contents, antioxidant potential, and antibacterial activities

Plants have always been the prime focus in medicine industries due to their enormous ethnobotanical uses and multitude of biological and therapeutic properties. In the current study, preliminary phytochemical composition, Total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) with the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of hydroalcoholic extract and n-hexane, chloroform and n-butanol fractions of five selected medicinal plants [Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers., Lavandula stoechas L., Aesculus indica (Wall. ex Cambess.) Hook, Iris ensata Thunb., and Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers.] from Pakistan, have been evaluated. TPC and TFC were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu's and AlCl3 methods respectively. The antioxidant activity was performed by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and CUPRAC while the antibacterial potential of these plants was determined by agar well diffusion assay. K. pinnata (Lam.) Pers. exhibited the highest TPC (695 ± 13.2 mg.GA.Eq.g-1DE ± SD) in n-butanol fraction and the highest TFC in its chloroform faction (615 ± 6.31 mg Q.Eq.g-1 DE ± SD). The n-butanol fraction and hydroalcoholic extract of I. ensata Thunb. exhibited strong antioxidant potential by DPPH and CUPRAC assays respectively, whereas K. pinnata (Lam.) Pers. n-butanol fraction exhibited the strongest reducing potential. The hydroalcoholic extract of all tested plants exhibited significant antibacterial activity against tested bacterial strains with ZI (12-18 mm). Conclusively, K. pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Family: Crassulaceae) and I. ensataThunb. (Family: Iridaceae) exhibited the highest antioxidant and antibacterial potential. They can be explored for the isolation of phytoconstituents responsible for this potential and serve as a lead for the production of new natural antioxidants and antibacterial agents that can be used to cure various diseases.

Scalp acupuncture and computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation for stroke: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Objective

To assess the clinical effectiveness of scalp acupuncture and computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation in the treatment of cognitive impairment in stroke patients.

Methods

The literatures published before August 2021 in the following databases were included: PubMed, Chinese Biomedical Database, Wanfang Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Database of Chinese sci-tech periodicals (VIP), EBSCO Information Services, MEDLINE and Web of Science. Only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Primary outcomes were the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Our secondary outcome was Modified Barthel Index Score (MBI). The quality of all included trials was evaluated according to the Cochrane Collaboration. This protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42016048528).

Results

Sixteen articles were selected including 1333 patients. The result of the meta analysis showed that the combination of scalp acupuncture and computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation had a significant improvement in the cognitive impairments. The analysis of LOTCA showed the improvement on the LOTCA (p < 0.0001, n = 410, I2 = 86%, mean difference 8.31). The meta-analysis of the MOCA showed a weighted mean difference of 3.76 and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of 2.90-4.62 (p < 0.0001, n = 301). Besides, it was showed that the combination therapy played an important role in the improvement of the score of MBI with a weighted mean difference of 9.30 and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of 5.87-12.672 (p < 0.0001, n = 278).

Conclusions

Scalp acupuncture and computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation appears to be effective for stroke patients with respect to certain outcomes. However, the evidence thus far is inconclusive. Further high-quality RCTs following standardized guidelines with a low risk of bias are needed to confirm the effectiveness of acupuncture for postpartum depression.

Dietary Application of the Microalga Lobosphaera incisa P127 Reduces Severity of Intestinal Inflammation, Modulates Gut-Associated Gene Expression, and Microbiome in the Zebrafish Model of IBD

SCOPE

Microalgae are an emerging nutritional resource of biomolecules with potential to alleviate gut inflammation. The study explores the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory potential of the microalga Lobosphaera incisa P127, which accumulates a rare omega-6 LC-PUFA dihomo-ɣ-linolenic acid (DGLA) under nitrogen starvation. The therapeutic potential of dietary supplementation with P127 is investigated in the zebrafish model of IBD (TNBS-induced colitis).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Guts are sampled from zebrafish fed experimental diets for 4 weeks, before and 24 h after TNBS challenge. Diets containing 15% non-starved (Ns) and 7.5% and 15% N-starved (St) algal biomass significantly attenuate the severity of gut injury and goblet cell depletion. In contrast, diets containing 7.5% Ns and DGLA ethyl ester have no effect on gut condition. Fish fed 15% St, high-DGLA biomass, have the fewest individuals with pathological alterations in the gut. Dietary inclusion of Ns and St distinctly modulates gut-associated expression of the immune and inflammatory genes. Fish fed 15% Ns biomass display a coordinated boost in immune gene expression and show major changes in the gut microbiome prior challenge.

CONCLUSION

Dietary inclusion of L. incisa biomass at two physiological states, ameliorates TNBS-induced gut inflammation, suggesting the synergistic beneficial effects of biomass components not limited to DGLA.

LC-MS-based metabolite profiling of aqueous extract of Pergularia tomentosa L. and its anti-hyperglycemic effect

Objectives

In this study, to find scientific evidence for the traditional use of Pergularia tomentosa as an anti-diabetic remedy, the effects of its aqueous extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in rats were evaluated.

Materials and Methods

Wistar rats were fasted overnight and diabetes mellitus was induced using streptozotocin (50 mg/kg body weight). The rats were randomly and equally divided into four groups (n=5): group I (normoglycaemic control), group II (diabetic rats), group III (diabetic rats treated with 200 mg/kg BW of an aqueous extract of P. tomentosa), group IV (normoglycemic rats treated with 200 mg/kg BW of an aqueous extract of P. tomentosa). Chemical profiling of the aqueous extract was carried out using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization and multiple-stage linear ion-trap and orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/LTQOrbitrap/MS/MS). In addition, the quantitative determination of the main cardenolides in the extract was carried out by an analytical approach based on LC coupled to tandem mass spectrometry with ESI source and hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass analyzer (LC-ESI/QTrap/MS/MS).

Results

Aqueous extract of P. tomentosa showed a reasonable reduction in blood glucose level. Probably, the P. tomentosa effect on hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic diabetic animals was associated with antioxidant properties, triglyceride levels, as well as liver enzymes. Meanwhile, LC-ESI/LTQOrbitrap/MS/MS analysis led to identification of double-linked cardenolides along with cardenolides and flavone glycosides as the main bioactive compounds.

Conclusion

The extract decreased the glucose level and induced a beneficial effect on the lipid profile, probably due to the presence of cardenolide glycosides.

Sex, age, and ethnic dependency of lipoprotein variants as the risk factors of ischemic heart disease: a detailed study on the different age-classes and genders in Tehran Cardiometabolic Genetic Study (TCGS)

Biological processes involving environmental and genetic factors drive the interplay between age- and sex-regulating lipid profile. The relation between variations in the LPA gene with increasing the risk of coronary heart disease is dependent on population differences, sex, and age. The present study tried to do a gene candidate association analysis in people with myocardial infarction (MI) in a 22 year cohort family-based longitudinal cohort study, Tehran Cardiometabolic Genetic Study (TCGS). After adjusting p value by the FDR method, only the association of rs6415084 with the MI probability and the age-of-CHD-onset was significant in males in their middle age (p < 0.005). Surprisingly, a lack of association was observed for the rest of the markers (16 SNPs). These results revealed the moderator effects of age and sex on the association between the genetic variants (SNPs) of LPA and heart disease risk. Our observations may provide new insights into the biology that underlies lipid profile with age or the sexual dimorphism of Lp(a) metabolism. Finally, Lp(a) appears to be an independent risk factor; however, the role of sex and ethnicity is important.

Prospective Study of Different Staple Diets of Diabetic Indian Population

Background:

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. Its prevention and regulation depends on dietary pattern and lifestyle. There are numerous studies which have been conducted to elucidate the relationship between type of diet consumption and sugar levels. The objective of this study was to enumerate the distribution of the staple food consumed in seven zones across India and their association with sugar levels.

Methodology:

A pan-India multicentered screening, covering the 63 districts, 29 states, and 4 union territories per populations, was undertaken. A specially designed questionnaire was administered for data collection, which comprised specific questions for diet 17,280 sample was analyzed across seven zones of India. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS; 21.0) software was used to analyze the data.

Results:

The survey suggested that rice and wheat are the major staple food consumed across different regions of India. In Jammu, North, East, South, and central zones, consumption of rice was more than wheat. However, in North and West zones, consumption of wheat was observed to be more than rice. Mean values of fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) were high in the group consuming Bajra (128.3 & 160.5). Similarly, FBS mean was less in group consuming rice (114.6), and PPBS was low in group consuming ragi (149.2).

Conclusion:

Staple food has significant effect on FBS, PPBS and glycated haemoglobin cholesterol levels and anthropometric measurements.

Therapeutic perspectives of the black cumin component thymoquinone: A review

The dietary phytochemical thymoquinone (TQ), belonging to the family of quinones, mainly obtained from the black and angular seeds of Nigella sativa, is one of the promising monoterpenoid hydrocarbons, which has been receiving massive attention for its therapeutic potential and pharmacological properties. It plays an important role as a chemopreventive and therapeutic agent in the treatment of various diseases and illnesses. The aim of this review is to present a summary of the most recent literature pertaining to the use of TQ for the prevention and treatment of various diseases along with possible mechanisms of action, and the potential use of this natural product as a complementary or alternative medicine. Research findings indicated that TQ exhibits numerous pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and anticancer, among others. Conclusions of this review on the therapeutic aspects of TQ highlight the medicinal and folk values of this compound against various diseases and ailments. In short, TQ could be a novel drug in clinical trials, as we hope.

Bioprocessing and integration of a high flux screening systematic platform based on isothermal amplification for the detection on 8 common pathogens

During a large variety of common pathogens, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, MRSA, MRCNS, V. parahaemolyticus, L. monocytogenes and Salmonella are the leading pathogens responsible for large number of human infections and diseases. In this study, a high flux screening based on nucleic acid isothermal amplification technique has been developed. For the 8 common pathogens, species-specific targets had been selected and analyzed for their unique specificity. After optimization, separate LAMP reaction assays had been bioprocessed and integrated into one systematic detection platform, including 8 strips (PCR tubes) and 96-well plates. Eight standard strains verified for the accuracy. Application of the established high flux screening platform was used for detection for 48 samples in 4 different 96-well plates, with 2 groups of 2 operators using double-blind procedure. The accuracy of 100% was obtained, with the total time consumption as 66-75 min (for 12 samples detection on 8 different pathogens). As concluded, through the bioprocess of the systematic platform based on LAMP technique, it's been demonstrated to be capable of simultaneous detection of 8 pathogens, with high sensitivity, specificity, rapidity and convenience.

"One-step" characterization platform for pathogenic genetics of Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is an important human pathogen causing a variety of life-threatening diseases. In recent years, the health problem caused by S. aureus contaminated food has become a global health problem. S. aureus can express various pathogenic factors, mainly used for adhesion, colonization, invasion and infection of the host. Therefore, rapid and accurate detection of virulence genes in S. aureus is necessary to prevent outbreaks caused by this pathogen. PCR is a useful tool for rapid detection of foodborne pathogens. The objective of this study was to detect the presence of major toxin genes in S. aureus, including sea, seb, sec, see, pvl and tsst, by using a PCR plate. Of the 13 strains tested, 12 (92.3%) were found to be positive for one or more toxin genes. This study realized the one-step detection of main toxin factors in S. aureus.

Metabolism and pharmacokinetics of a novel polyphenol fatty acid ester phloridzin docosahexaenoate in Balb/c female mice

Flavonoids are known to undergo phase II metabolism and produce metabolites with similar or stronger biological effects compared to the parent flavonoids. However, the limited cellular uptake and bioavailability restrict their clinical use. We synthesized phloridzin docosahexaenoate (PZ-DHA), a novel fatty acid ester of polyphenol, through an acylation reaction with the aim of increasing the cellular availability and stability of the parent biomolecules, phloridzin (PZ) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Here, we report metabolites and pharmacokinetic parameters of PZ-DHA, determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. PZ-DHA was taken-up by human (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, and MCF-7) and mouse (4T1) mammary carcinoma and human non-malignant mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A) in cellular uptake assays. Our results suggested that the acylation improves the cellular uptake of PZ and stability of DHA within cells. In mouse hepatic microsomal assays, two major glucuronides of PZ-DHA, PZ-DHA-4-O-glucuronide and PZ-DHA-4'-O-glucuronide (MW = 923.02 g/mol), were detected. One tri-methylated- (4,4',6'-O-trimethyl-PZ-DHA) (MW = 788.88 g/mol) and one di-sulphated- (PZ-DHA-4,4'-O-disulphide) PZ-DHA metabolite (MW = 906.20 g/mol) were also identified. Intraperitoneal injections of PZ-DHA (100 mg/kg) into Balb/c female mice was rapidly absorbed with a serum C_max and T_max of 23.7 µM and 60 min, respectively, and rapidly eliminated (t_1/2 = 28.7 min). PZ-DHA and its metabolites are readily distributed throughout the body (V_d = 57 mL) into many organs. We identified in vitro and in vivo metabolites of PZ-DHA, which could be tested for potential use to treat diseases such as cancer in multiple organ systems.

Short term chronic toxicity of tributyltin on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible protective role of omega-3

The declining rate of male fertility is a growing concern. Tributyltin (TBT) is a well-known endocrine disruptor (ED), that induces imposex in female gastropods and is widely used in various industrial applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxic effects of TBT on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible role of omega-3. Forty two adult male albino rats were divided into five groups; control group (Group I) and four experimental groups: omega-3 treated group, TBT treated group, TBT & omega-3 treated group and follow up group. At the end of the study, the rats were subjected to biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 and seminal examinations. Our results clarfied that TBT induced a significant decrease in testosterone, FSH, LH and serum glutathione peroxidase levels and a significant increase in the serum Malondialdehyde as compared to the control group. Tributyltin induced disorganization and shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, apoptosis, cellular damage and marked reduction in the germinal epithelium. A significant decrease in the cell proliferation and arrested spermatogenesis were also detected. Seminal analysis of TBT group showed a significant affection of all parameters as compared to other groups. Omega-3 ameliorated all of these hazardous effects. Follow up group still showed toxic effects. In conclusion, TBT has a toxic effect on the testis. Increased testicular oxidative stress, cellular damage and arrest of spermatogenesis with attenuation in antioxidant defenses are all contributing factors. Omega-3 can protect against TBT induced reproductive toxicity.

MIF gene rs755622 polymorphism positively associated with acute coronary syndrome in Chinese Han population: case-control study

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been recognized as a major player in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This study determined the association between polymorphisms of MIF gene and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The polymorphism of MIF gene (rs755622, rs1007888 and rs2096525) was analyzed in 1153 healthy controls and 699 ACS cases in Chinese Han population. Plasma MIF level was also measured in part of ACS patients (139/19.9%) and healthy controls (129/11.2%) randomly. Most participants including healthy controls and ACS patients carried rs755622 GG (63.1% vs. 56.7%) and CG genotypes (33.1% vs. 38.9%) and G allele of rs755622 (79.6% vs. 76.1%, respectively), while CC genotype (3.8% vs. 4.4%) and C allele (20.4% vs. 23.9%) carriers were the lowest. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that carriers with rs755622 C allele had a higher risk of ACS compared to other genotypes (AOR = 1.278, 95% CI: 1.042-1.567). In addition, CC genotype carriers had the highest plasma levels of MIF than other genotype carriers. The MIF level in ACS patients with CC genotype was significantly higher than ACS patients carrying GG genotype and healthy controls carrying 3 different genotypes of MIF gene rs755622. Our findings indicate that MIF gene rs755622 variant C allele is associated with increased risk of ACS. Identification of this MIF gene polymorphism may help for predicting the risk of ACS.

Camel milk exosomes modulate cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress and immuno-toxicity in rats

Camel milk proteins exhibit many beneficial properties including immuno-modulatory and anti-oxidant effects. Recent studies demonstrated that most of these properties are ascribed to the presence of extracellular nanovesicles known as exosomes. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of the immuno-modulatory and anti-oxidant properties of camel milk exosomes on the immuno-toxicity and oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) in albino rats. Exosomes were isolated from camel milk and exosomal kappa casein and lactoferrin mRNAs were detected and then sequenced. CTX was used to induce immunosuppression in rats, which were further treated with camel milk and its exosomes. The alterations in biochemical parameters, antioxidant status, cytokine profile, spleen histopathology and flow cytometric analysis were detected. Treatment with CTX resulted in a significant decrease in total protein, albumin, globulin, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels associated with a significant increase in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) when compared with the control group. Moreover, CTX depleted lymphocytes in the spleen tissue, significantly reduced the expression of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in the spleen cells and decreased the CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ cell percentages in the blood and spleen, while it induced a significant increase in the expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Co-administration of camel milk exosomes was able to normalize the antioxidant status and most of the biochemical and immunological parameters. This study clarifies that camel milk and its exosomes successfully ameliorate immunosuppression and oxidative stress induced by CTX in rats.

TLR4 and MMP2 polymorphisms and their associations with cardiovascular risk factors in susceptibility to aortic aneurysmal diseases

Background: Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) play important roles in aortic pathophysiology. We aimed to evaluate the contribution of TLR4 and MMP2 polymorphisms individually and complex interactions between gene and risk factors in susceptibility to aortic aneurysm (AA) and its subtypes. Methods: KASP method was adopted to detect TLR4rs11536889, rs1927914 and MMP2rs2285053 polymorphisms in 498 controls and 472 AA patients, including 212 abdominal AA (AAA) and 216 thoracic AA (TAA). Results: In the overall analysis, MMP2rs2285053 TC genotype was correlated with TAA risk (P = 0.047, OR = 1.487). Stratified analysis revealed an increased AA risk in males with TLR4rs1927914 TC genotype, while MMP2rs2285053 TC conferred an elevated AA risk in the subjects ≤60 years, and its TC genotype and dominant model were associated with TAA in the subjects ≤60 year. The interaction between TLR4rs1927914 and MMP2rs2285053 was associated with AAA risk (P _interaction = 0.028, OR = 2.913). Furthermore, significant interaction between TLR4rs11536889 and dyslipidemia was observed for TAA risk, while TLR4rs1927914 could interact with hypertension and diabetes to increase the risk of AA or its subtypes. Two-way interaction effect of TLR4rs1927914 and MMP2rs2285053 was enhanced by diabetes or dyslipidemia. Conclusion: TLR4 and MMP2 polymorphisms and their complex interactions with cardiovascular risk factors contributed to aortic aneurysmal diseases.

Serum glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol in relation to prostate cancer death in the Swedish AMORIS study

PURPOSE

Lifestyle-related conditions such as obesity are associated with prostate cancer progression, but the associations with hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia are unclear. This study, therefore, aims to examine the association of glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol with prostate cancer death.

METHODS

From the Swedish AMORIS cohort, we selected 14,150 men diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1996 and 2011 who had prediagnostic measurements of serum glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to determine the hazard ratios for death in relation to the aforementioned metabolic markers.

RESULTS

Using clinical cut-off points, a non-significant positive association was observed between glucose and prostate cancer death. When compared to those with glucose in the lowest quartile, those in the highest quartile had greater risk of prostate cancer death (HR 1.19; 95% CI 1.02-1.39). However, neither total cholesterol nor triglycerides were associated with prostate cancer death. Glucose and triglycerides were positively associated with overall, cardiovascular, and other deaths. Hypercholesterolemia was only associated with risk of CVD death.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that glucose levels may influence prostate cancer survival, but further studies using repeated measurements are needed to further elucidate how glucose levels may influence prostate cancer progression.

Plasma Fatty Acid Composition and Estimated Desaturase Activities Reflect Dietary Patterns in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome

Changes in plasma fatty acid (FA) composition and desaturase activities are observed in metabolic syndrome (MS). However, whether these changes are a reflection of dietary intakes of fats and FAs is not well established. The current study was aimed at assessing plasma FA composition and desaturase enzyme activities as biomarkers of dietary intakes in subjects with MS. Case control study was done on 41 MS patients and was compared with age matched 45 controls. Dietary intakes, anthropometric and clinical parameters were measured. FA composition was analysed using gas chromatography-flame ionisation detector and desaturase enzyme activities were estimated as ratios of product to precursor FAs. Higher levels of 14:0, 16:0, 16:1, 18:1, D9D-18 activity and lower levels of 18:0 and 18:2 n-6 were seen in MS group when compared to controls (p < 0.05). Strong positive correlations were seen between plasma triglyceride (TG) levels and 14:0, 16:0, 16:1, 18:1, total saturated fatty acid, total monounsaturated fatty acid, and D9D activities, while 18:0, 18:2 n-6 and total polyunsaturated fatty acid were negatively correlated with TG. Positive correlations were seen between plasma 14:0, 18:1 and D9D-18 activity with total energy intake and carbohydrate (CHO) intakes but not with fat intake. Plasma FA profile appears to be a better index of total energy intake and CHO intake than fat intake, suggesting it might be a good reflection of endogenous FA metabolism. Changes in FA composition may therefore serve as an early index of dysregulation of FA metabolism, resulting in increased risk of MS.

Toll-like receptor 2 activation primes and upregulates osteoclastogenesis via lox-1

BACKGROUND

Lectin-like oxidized low-density-lipoprotein receptor 1 (Lox-1) is the receptor for oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), a mediator in dyslipidemia. Toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 and - 4 are receptors of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major pathogen of chronic periodontitis. Although some reports have demonstrated that periodontitis has an adverse effect on dyslipidemia, little is clear that the mechanism is explained the effects of dyslipidemia on osteoclastogenesis. We have hypothesized that osteoclast oxLDL has directly effect on osteoclasts (OCs), and therefore alveolar bone loss on periodontitis may be increased by dyslipidemia. The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of Lox-1 on osteoclastogenesis associated with TLRs in vitro.

METHODS

Mouse bone marrow cells (BMCs) were stimulated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor into bone marrow macrophages (BMMs). The cells were also stimulated with synthetic ligands for TLR2 (Pam3CSK4) or TLR4 (Lipid A), with or without receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), and assessed for osteoclastogenesis by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, immunostaining, western blotting, flow activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and reverse transcription PCR.

RESULTS

Lox-1 expression was significantly upregulated by Pam3CSK4 and Lipid A in BMCs (p < 0.05), but not in BMMs. FACS analysis identified that Pam3CSK4 upregulated RANK and Lox-1 expression in BMCs. TRAP-positive cells were not increased by stimulation with Pam3CSK4 alone, but were increased by stimulation with combination combined Pam3CSK and oxLDL. Expression of both Lox-1 and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), an essential adaptor protein in the TLR signaling pathway, were suppressed by inhibitors of TLR2, TLR4 and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK).

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports that osteoclastogenesis is promoted under the coexistence of oxLDL by TLR2-induced upregulation of Lox-1 in BMCs. This indicates that periodontitis could worsen with progression of dyslipidemia.

Lowering the n-6/n-3 PUFAs ratio inhibits the formation of THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cell

Background

The balance between n-6 and n-3 PUFAs is an important determinant in the risk for cardiovascular disease. The study was to investigate the influence of the n-6 and n-3 PUFAs ratio on the formation of THP-1 monocyte-derived foam cells and explore the probable mechanism of anti-atherosclerosis.

Methods

THP-1 monocyte cells were cultured with PMA and ox-LDL to establish a foam-cell model, while treated with different ratios of n-6 to n-3 PUFAs for 48 h. The cholesterol of foam cells was measured by a cholesterol assay kit. The levels of IL-6 and TNFα in supernatant were detected with ELISA methods. The expressions of CD36, ABCA1, ACAT1, PPARγ and LXRα mRNA were detected with real-time PCR.

Results

Compared with the foam cell model group, the low and middle ratio of n-6 to n-3 PUFAs groups decreased the intracellular concentration of cholesterol (P < 0.01), but the high n-6/n-3 PUFAs ratio did not. Fatty acids decreased the level of IL-6 and TNFα in supernatant in a ratio-dependent manner. Fatty acids treatment also decreased the expressions of CD36、ACTA1、PPARγ、LXRα mRNA in a ratio-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Lowering the ratios of n-6 to n-3 PUFAs can decrease the secretion of inflammatory cytokines then reduce the expressions of CD36 and ACAT1 mRNA. As well, it can decrease the expressions of CD36 mRNA through the PPARγ pathway. This leads to less cholesterol ingestion into the cells and decreased synthesis of cholesteryl ester, which inhibits the formation of the foam cells, further preventing the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis.

Saponin from sea cucumber exhibited more significant effects than ginsenoside on ameliorating high fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6 mice

Obesity and its comorbidities are considered to be a severe public health problem. Many natural compounds found in food have been proved to ameliorate the metabolic abnormalities induced by obesity. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of saponin from sea cucumber (SSC) and ginsenoside (SG) on improving the lipid metabolism in C57BL/6 mice fed with a high fat diet. The mice were randomly divided into six groups including a low fat diet group (LF), a high fat diet group (HF), and four dietary intervention groups. The administration of SSC for 8 weeks exhibited a more significant reduction in HF induced fat mass, weight gain, lipid levels in the liver and serum, and serum glucose and insulin levels than SG. Further research indicated that SSC ameliorated high fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6 mice mainly through inhibiting lipid synthesis and accelerating lipid β-oxidation and glycolysis in the liver. These results suggested that saponin from sea cucumber might be applied as a food supplement and/or functional ingredient to relieve metabolic disorders induced by obesity.

Expression of Toll‑like receptor 4 on mast cells in gingival tissues of human chronic periodontitis

The purpose of the present study was to examine the expression of Toll‑like receptor 4 (TLR4) on mast cells in gingival tissues of human chronic periodontitis. A total of 68 donors, including 23 with mild chronic periodontitis, 25 with advanced chronic periodontitis and 20 healthy controls, were included in the present study. Gingival specimens from the donors were fixed in 4% neutral formalin, stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histologic observation, stained for immunohistochemical identification of TLR4 in gingival tissues, and stained with double immunofluorescence for the identification of TLR4 on mast cells in gingival tissues. The results revealed that the expression of TLR4 in the gingival tissues and on mast cells in the gingival tissues of patients with chronic periodontitis were significantly higher, compared with those of the normal control group (P<0.05). The expression levels of TLR4 in the gingival tissues and on mast cells in patients with advanced chronic periodontitis were significantly higher, compared with those in patients with mild chronic periodontitis (P<0.05). In conclusion, the expression of TLR4 in gingival tissues and on mast cells increased with the severity of chronic periodontitis, suggesting that TLR4, particularly mast cell TLR4, may be important in the disease process of human chronic periodontitis.

Effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of Rosa damascena on learning and memory in male rats consuming a high-fat diet

CONTEXT

High-fat diet (HFD) can cause deficits in learning and memory through oxidative stress and increase Alzheimer disease risk. Rosa damascena Mill. (Rosaceae) extract possesses potent antioxidant properties.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effects of the hydroalcoholic extracts of petals of R. damascena on learning and memory in male rats consuming an HFD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were randomly assigned to four groups: control, R. damascena extract, HFD and HFD + extract. The extract (1 g/kg bw daily) was administered by oral gavage for 1 month. Animals were allowed free access to high-fat chow for 3 months. The Morris water maze and the passive avoidance learning tests were used to assess learning and memory.

RESULTS

In the passive avoidance learning test, the step-through latencies in the retention test (STLr) of the extract (147.4 ± 23.3) and HFD (150.3 ± 25.2) groups were significantly lower than those of the control group (270.4 ± 10.5) (respectively, p < 0.001 and p < 0.01). STLr was significantly higher in the HFD + extract group (265.3 ± 10.6) than in the HFD group (150.3 ± 25.2) (p < 0.01). Time spent in the dark compartment (TDC) in the HFD + extract group (5.3 ± 2.6) was significantly lower than that in the HFD group (85.8 ± 19.1) (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that, while HFD or R. damascena extract alone leads to memory deficits, R. damascena extract exerted a positive effect on HFD-induced memory deficits. We hypothesize that the observed effects of R. damascena extract are likely due to its strong antioxidant properties.

Salidroside protects against foam cell formation and apoptosis, possibly via the MAPK and AKT signaling pathways

Background

Foam cell formation and apoptosis are closely associated with atherosclerosis pathogenesis. We determined the effect of salidroside on oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced foam cell formation and apoptosis in THP1 human acute monocytic leukemia cells and investigated the associated molecular mechanisms.

Methods

THP1-derived macrophages were incubated with salidroside for 5 h and then exposed to ox-LDL for 24 h to induce foam cell formation. Cytotoxicity, lipid deposition, apoptosis, and the expression of various proteins were tested using the CCK8 kit, Oil Red O staining, flow cytometry, and western blotting, respectively.

Results

Ox-LDL treatment alone promoted macrophage-derived foam cell formation, while salidroside treatment alone inhibited it (p < 0.05). The number of early/late apoptotic cells decreased with salidroside treatment in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Salidroside dramatically upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, but had no effect on heme oxygenase-1 expression; moreover, it markedly downregulated ox-LDL receptor 1 and upregulated ATP-binding cassette transporter A1. Salidroside also obviously decreased the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, p38 MAPK, and increased that of Akt. However, the total expression of these proteins was not affected.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, we speculate that salidroside can suppress ox-LDL-induced THP1-derived foam cell formation and apoptosis, partly by regulating the MAPK and Akt signaling pathways.

TLR4 Inactivation in Myeloid Cells Accelerates Bone Healing of a Calvarial Defect Model in Mice

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been implicated in inflammation-induced bone destruction in various chronic bone diseases; however, its direct influence on bone healing is not well understood. The authors’ previous study showed accelerated bone healing with higher osteoclastogenesis gene expression in toll-like receptor 4 knockout mice (TLR4^-/-). This study aimed to further elucidate the underlying cellular mechanisms during fracture healing by generating a myeloid cell-specific toll-like receptor 4 knockout model (Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice).

Methods:

Calvarial defects, 1.8 mm in diameter, were created in wild-type, TLR4^-/-, and Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice. Bone healing was investigated using micro–computed tomography and histologic, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemistry analyses. Primary bone marrow–derived cells were also isolated from wild-type, TLR4^-/-, and Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice to measure their osteoclast differentiation and resorption properties.

Results:

A similar faster bone healing response, with active intramembranous bone formation, intense osteopontin staining, and more osteoblast infiltration, was observed in TLR4^-/- and Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining showed more osteoclast infiltration in Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice than in wild-type mice at day 7. Primary bone marrow–derived cells isolated from TLR4^-/- and Lyz-TLR4^-/- mice presented enhanced osteoclastogenesis and resorption activity compared with those from wild-type mice. Comparable M0, M1, and M2 macrophage infiltration was found among all groups at days 1, 4, and 7.

Conclusions:

This study revealed that inactivation of toll-like receptor 4 in myeloid cells enhanced osteoclastogenesis and accelerated healing response during skull repair. Together with the role of toll-like receptor 4 in inflammation-mediated bone destruction, it suggests that toll-like receptor 4 might regulate inflammation-induced osteoclastogenesis under different clinical settings.

Puerarin and Amlodipine Improvement of D-Galactose-Induced Impairments of Behaviour and Neurogenesis in Mouse Dentate Gyrus: Correlation with Glucocorticoid Receptor Expression

Glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) exert actions on the hippocampus that are important for memory formation. There are correlations between vascular dysfunctions and GR-related gene expression. Both vascular dysfunction and GR gene expression decline occur during the ageing process. Therefore, hypotensors, which have effects on improving vascular dysfunction, may be able to ameliorate GR gene expression decline in ageing mice and improve ageing-mediated memory deficits. In this study, we hypothesized that hypotensors could alleviate the decline of GR gene expression and ameliorate age-induced learning and memory deficits in a D-gal-induced ageing mice model. In line with our hypothesis, we found that chronic D-gal treatment decreased GR and DCX expression in the hippocampus, leading to learning and memory deficits. Amlodipine (AM) and puerarin (PU) treatment improved GR gene expression decline in the hippocampus and ameliorated the learning and memory deficits of D-gal-treated mice. These changes correlated with enhanced DCX expression and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus. Furthermore, PU treatment conveyed better effects than AM treatment, but combination therapy did not enhance the effects on improving GR expression. However, we did not find evidence of these changes in non-D-gal-treated mice that lacked GR gene expression decline. These results suggest that AM and PU could improve D-gal-induced behavioural deficits in correlation with GR gene expression.

Bamboo (Phyllostachys bambusoides) leaf extracts inhibit adipogenesis by regulating adipogenic transcription factors and enzymes in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

In this study, the inhibitory effects of bamboo leaf extracts on adipogenesis were investigated by evaluating their activity against adipogenic transcription factors and enzymes in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Bamboo leaf extracts significantly decreased triglyceride levels, and increased glycerol release in adipocytes. Cells treated with the water extract showed significantly higher glycerol release as well as lower triglyceride contents than those treated with the ethanol extract. Both bamboo leaf extracts significantly inhibited the expression of adipogenic transcription factors and enzymes, such as CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase, and fatty acid synthase, and increased the expression of phospho-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. These results show that bamboo leaf extracts inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and that the water extract was more efficacious than the ethanol extract.

Common variants in the genes of triglyceride and HDL-C metabolism lack association with coronary artery disease in the Pakistani subjects

Background

Serum Triglyceride (TG) and High Density Lipoprotein (HDL-C) levels are modifiable coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors. Polymorphisms in the genes regulating TG and HDL-C levels contribute to the development of CAD. The objective of the current study was to investigate the effect of four such single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in the genes for Lipoprotein Lipase (LPL) (rs328, rs1801177), Apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5) (rs66279) and Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) (rs708272) on HDL-C and TG levels and to examine the association of these SNPs with CAD risk.

Methods

A total of 640 subjects (415 cases, 225 controls) were enrolled in the study. The SNPs were genotyped by KASPar allelic discrimination technique. Serum HDL-C and TG were determined by spectrophotometric methods.

Results

The population under study was in Hardy Weinberg equilibrium and minor allele of SNP rs1801177 was completely absent in the studied subjects. The SNPs were association with TG and HDL-C levels was checked through regression analysis. For rs328, the effect size of each risk allele on TG and HDL-C (mmol/l) was 0.16(0.08) and −0.11(0.05) respectively. Similarly, the effect size of rs662799 for TG and HDL-C was 0.12(0.06) and −0.13(0.0.3) and that of rs708272 was 0.08(0.04) and 0.1(0.03) respectively. The risk allele frequencies of the SNPs were higher in cases than controls, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05) and SNPs were not associated with CAD risk (p > 0.05). The combined gene score of four SNPs significantly raised TG and lowered HDL-C but did not increase CAD risk.

Conclusion

The studied SNPs were associated with TG and HDL-C levels, but not with CAD in Pakistani population under study.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12944-017-0419-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Modulation of the sympathetic nervous system by renal denervation prevents reduction of aortic distensibility in atherosclerosis prone ApoE-deficient rats

BACKGROUND

Apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE(-/-)) rodents spontaneously develop severe hypercholesterolemia and increased aortic stiffness, both accepted risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in humans. In patients with resistant hypertension renal denervation (RDN) may improve arterial stiffness, however the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. This study investigates the impact of RDN on aortic compliance in a novel atherosclerosis prone ApoE(-/-)-rat model.

METHODS

Normotensive, 8 weeks old ApoE(-/-) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to bilateral surgical RDN (n = 6 per group) or sham operation (n = 5 per group) and fed with normal chow for 8 weeks. Compliance of the ascending aorta was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Vasomotor function was measured by aortic ring tension recordings. Aortic collagen content was quantified histologically and plasma aldosterone levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

After 8 weeks, ApoE(-/-)-sham demonstrated a 58 % decrease in aortic distensibility when compared with SD-sham (0.0051 ± 0.0011 vs. 0.0126 ± 0.0023 1/mmHg; p = 0.02). This was accompanied by an impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation of aortic rings and an increase in aortic medial fibrosis (17.87 ± 1.4 vs. 12.27 ± 1.1 %; p = 0.006). In ApoE(-/-)-rats, RDN prevented the reduction of aortic distensibility (0.0128 ± 0.002 vs. 0.0051 ± 0.0011 1/mmHg; p = 0.01), attenuated endothelial dysfunction, and decreased aortic medial collagen content (12.71 ± 1.3 vs. 17.87 ± 1.4 %; p = 0.01) as well as plasma aldosterone levels (136.33 ± 6.6 vs. 75.52 ± 8.4 pg/ml; p = 0.0003). Cardiac function and metabolic parameters such as hypercholesterolemia were not influenced by RDN.

CONCLUSION

ApoE(-/-)-rats spontaneously develop impaired vascular compliance. RDN improves aortic distensibility and attenuated endothelial dysfunction in ApoE(-/-)-rats. This was associated with a reduction in aortic fibrosis formation, and plasma aldosterone levels.

Impact of ionic liquid properties on selective enrichment of glycerides in direct lipase-catalyzed esterification

The direct lipase-catalyzed esterification of oleic acid and glycerol was studied in ionic liquids in order to deduce the effects of solvent properties such as viscosity, E_N^T, log P and Kamlet–Taft parameters on selective enrichment of glycerides.

Anti-hyperlipidemia and antioxidant activities of Amygdalus pedunculata seed oil

Evaluating the anti-hyperlipidemia and antioxidant activities of AO compared with OO and RSO.

Occlusal disharmony accelerates the initiation of atherosclerosis in apoE knockout rats

Background

Psychosocial stress is one of the risk factors for atherosclerosis. As occlusal disharmony induces psychological stress, we hypothesized that psychological stress by occlusal disharmony accelerates atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of occlusal disharmony on the initiation of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E (apoE) knockout rats.

Methods

Fourteen male apoE-knockout rats (age; 8 weeks) (Sprague–Dawley strain background) were divided into two groups of seven rats: the occlusal disharmony group and the no treatment (control) group. In the occlusal disharmony group, the maxillary molar cusps were cut off for the 8-week experimental period.

Results

In the occlusal disharmony group, the percentages of the area of total aortic lumen occupied by plaques and lipid were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.05, t-test). The occlusal disharmony group also showed significantly higher serum levels of very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL), plasma levels of corticosterone (1.9, 1.3 and 1.3 times, respectively), higher aortic protein expression levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) (1.5 and 1.4 times, respectively), and higher aortic gene expression of levels of VCAM1 and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) (1.9 and 4.3 times, respectively), as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in serum levels of oxidized LDL, reactive oxygen metabolites and C-reactive protein between the two groups.

Conclusion

In apoE knockout rats, occlusal disharmony may induce VCAM1, ICAM1 and TLR4 expression and accelerate the initiation of atherosclerosis.

Differential effects of lipid fractions from silver carp brain on human cervical carcinoma cells in vitro

Previous research has revealed that n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) exhibit anticancer activities. Lipids from a fish brain contain substantial n3 PUFAs. However, no research has been conducted on the action and mechanism of their potent anticancer activities. In this study, total lipids (TLs) from silver carp brain were isolated into polar lipids (PLs) and neutral lipids (NLs), and the anticancer potential of the lipid fractions (LFs) was investigated using the human cervical carcinoma HeLa cell line. LFs effectively inhibited the cell proliferation of HeLa cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner by cell cycle arrest at the S stage and by inducing apoptosis. Further analyses indicated that the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential could be one of mechanisms of apoptosis induced by LFs. Among the TLs, PLs have proven to be more effective in inducing cervical carcinoma cell death than NLs. This work will play a role in promoting lipids from silver carp brain as a potential preventive and therapeutic agent against human cervical carcinoma.

Astaxanthin: sources, extraction, stability, biological activities and its commercial applications--a review

There is currently much interest in biological active compounds derived from natural resources, especially compounds that can efficiently act on molecular targets, which are involved in various diseases. Astaxanthin (3,3'-dihydroxy-β, β'-carotene-4,4'-dione) is a xanthophyll carotenoid, contained in Haematococcus pluvialis, Chlorella zofingiensis, Chlorococcum, and Phaffia rhodozyma. It accumulates up to 3.8% on the dry weight basis in H. pluvialis. Our recent published data on astaxanthin extraction, analysis, stability studies, and its biological activities results were added to this review paper. Based on our results and current literature, astaxanthin showed potential biological activity in in vitro and in vivo models. These studies emphasize the influence of astaxanthin and its beneficial effects on the metabolism in animals and humans. Bioavailability of astaxanthin in animals was enhanced after feeding Haematococcus biomass as a source of astaxanthin. Astaxanthin, used as a nutritional supplement, antioxidant and anticancer agent, prevents diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, and also stimulates immunization. Astaxanthin products are used for commercial applications in the dosage forms as tablets, capsules, syrups, oils, soft gels, creams, biomass and granulated powders. Astaxanthin patent applications are available in food, feed and nutraceutical applications. The current review provides up-to-date information on astaxanthin sources, extraction, analysis, stability, biological activities, health benefits and special attention paid to its commercial applications.

Melatonin ameliorates vascular endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and atherosclerosis by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB system in high-fat-fed rabbits

Vascular endothelial dysfunction (VED) and inflammation contribute to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Melatonin (MLT) normalizes lipid profile, improves endothelial function, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. However, the precise mechanisms are still unclear. This study investigated whether MLT could ameliorate VED, inflammation, and atherosclerosis by suppressing the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) system in high-fat-fed rabbits. Rabbits were randomly divided into three groups that received a standard diet (control group), high-cholesterol diet (atherosclerosis group), or high-cholesterol diet plus 10 mg/kg/day MLT (MLT group) for 12 wk. After treatment, high-fat diet significantly increased serum lipid and inflammatory markers in rabbits in atherosclerosis group compared with that in control group. In addition, high-fat diet also induced VED and typical atherosclerotic plaque formation and increased intima/media thickness ratio, which were significantly improved by MLT therapy as demonstrated in MLT group. Histological and immunoblot analysis further showed that high-fat diet enhanced the expressions of TLR4, myeloid differentiation primary response protein (MyD88), and NF-κB p65, but decreased inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB) expression. By contrast, MLT therapy decreased the expressions of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB p65 and increased IκB expression. This study has demonstrated that MLT ameliorates lipid metabolism, VED, and inflammation and inhibits the progression of atherosclerosis in high-fat-fed rabbits. Moreover, our study indicates for the first time that suppression of the TLR4/NF-κB system in local vasculature with atherosclerotic damage is important for the protective effects of MLT.

Two neglected biologic risk factors in bone grafting and implantology: high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low serum vitamin D

Following a failure of a bone graft or an implant placement, the hypothesis of a biological abnormality is rarely considered as a possible cause. A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature for dyslipidemia or vitamin D deficiency may explain this lack of consideration. Excess low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (dyslipidemia) is responsible for a slower bone metabolism or lower dental implant osseointegration. In addition, vitamin D is a key factor for linking innate and adaptive immunity. Both of these factors are compromised under the conditions of vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, vitamin D deficiency slows implant osseointegration and increases the risk of graft infection. Vitamin D is also involved in immune function and therefore allergic reactions.