The role of splenectomy in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis (AS)

Profile of the gut microbiota of Pacific white shrimp under industrial indoor farming system

The gut microbial communities interact with the host immunity and physiological functions. In this study, we investigated the bacterial composition in Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp's gut and rearing water under different host (developmental stage: juvenile and adult; health status: healthy and diseased) and environmental factors (temperature 25 °C and 28 °C; and light intensity: low and high). The PCoA analysis showed that all water samples were clustered together in a quarter, whereas the gut samples spread among three quarters. In terms of functional bacteria, gut samples of adult shrimp, healthy adult shrimp, adult shrimp raised at 28 °C, and juvenile shrimp under high light intensity exhibited a higher abundance of Vibrionaceae compared to each other opposite group. Gut samples of juvenile shrimp, infected adult shrimp, juvenile shrimp with low light intensity, and adult shrimp with a water temperature of 25 °C showed a higher abundance of Pseudoaltromonadaceae bacteria compared to each other opposite group. Gut samples of juvenile shrimp, healthy adult shrimp, adult shrimp raised at a water temperature of 28 °C, and juvenile shrimp with high light intensity showed the higher abundance of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio compared to each other opposite group. Our results showed that L. vannamei juveniles are more sensitive to bacterial infections; besides, water temperature of 28 °C and high light intensity groups were both important conditions improving the shrimp gut bacterial composition under industrial indoor farming systems. KEY POINTS: • Bacteria diversity was higher among shrimp intestinal microbiota compared to the rearing water. • Shrimp juveniles are more sensitive to bacterial infection compared to adults. • Water temperature of 28 °C and high light intensity are recommended conditions for white shrimp aquaculture.

What are the common downstream molecular events between alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver?

Liver fat storage, also called hepatic steatosis, is increasingly common and represents a very frequent diagnosis in the medical field. Excess fat is not without consequences. In fact, hepatic steatosis contributes to the progression toward liver fibrosis. There are two main types of fatty liver disease, alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although AFLD and NAFLD are similar in their initial morphological features, both conditions involve the same evolutive forms. Moreover, there are various common mechanisms underlying both diseases, including alcoholic liver disease and NAFLD, which are commonalities. In this Review, the authors explore similar downstream signaling events involved in the onset and progression of the two entities but not completely different entities, predominantly focusing on the gut microbiome. Downstream molecular events, such as the roles of sirtuins, cytokeratins, adipokines and others, should be considered. Finally, to complete the feature, some new tendencies in the therapeutic approach are presented.

Exploring the Influence of the Selected Conjugated Fatty Acids Isomers and Cancerous Process on the Fatty Acids Profile of Spleen

The spleen, traditionally associated with blood filtration and immune surveillance, has recently been recognized for its role in systemic lipid metabolism and potential influence on cancer development and progression. This study investigates effects of dietary supplements, specifically conjugated linolenic acids from pomegranate seed oil and bitter melon extract, on the fatty acid (FA) composition of the spleen in the context of cancerous processes. Advanced methods, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and silver ion-impregnated high-performance liquid chromatography, were employed to analyze the spleen's FA profile. Our research uncovered that dietary supplementation leads to alterations in the spleen's FA profile, especially under the carcinogenic influence of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. These changes did not align with a simple protective or anti-carcinogenic pattern, as previously suggested in in vitro studies. We observed shifts in conjugated FA isomer concentrations and variations in desaturase activities, suggesting disrupted lipid metabolism in cancerous conditions. The findings underscore the spleen's vital role in lipid metabolism within the body's systemic health framework, highlighting the complexity of dietary supplements' impact on FA profiles in the spleen and their potential implications in cancer progression and treatment. This study adds valuable insight into the complex interplay between diet, disease, and metabolic regulation, particularly in cancerous environments.

The mechanisms underlying alcohol-induced decreased splenic size: A network meta-analysis study

BACKGROUND

Organ weight change is widely accepted as a measure of toxicologic pathology. We and other groups have shown that excessive alcohol exposure leads to decreased spleen weight in rodents. This study explores the mechanisms underlying alcohol-induced splenic injury through a network meta-analysis.

METHODS

QIAGEN Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and Mammalian Phenotype (MP) Ontology were used to identify alcohol-related molecules associated with the small spleen phenotype. Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) and IPA bioinformatics tools were then used to analyze the biologic processes and enriched signaling pathways engaging these molecules. In addition, the "downstream effects analysis" algorithm was used to quantify alcohol's effects.

RESULTS

IPA identified 623 molecules affected by alcohol and a Venn diagram revealed that 26 of these molecules overlapped with those associated with the MP Ontology of small spleen. The 26 molecules are TGFB1, CASP8, MTOR, ESR1, CXCR4, CAMK4, NFKBIA, DRD2, BCL2, FAS, PEBP1, TRAF2, ATM, IGHM, EDNRB, MDM2, GLRA1, PRF1, TLR7, IFNG, ALOX5, FOXO1, IL15, APOE, IKBKG, and RORA. Some of the 26 molecules were also associated with the MP Ontology of abnormal white pulp and red pulp morphology of the spleen, abnormal splenic cell ratio, decreased splenocyte number, abnormal spleen physiology, increased splenocyte apoptosis, and reduced splenocyte proliferation. STRING and IPA "Core Analysis" showed that these molecules were mainly involved in pathways related to cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and immune responses. IPA's "Molecular Activity Predictor" tool showed that concurrent effects of activation and inhibition of these molecules led to decreased spleen size by modulating apoptosis, proliferation, and migration of splenocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our network meta-analysis revealed that excessive alcohol exposure can damage the spleen through a variety of molecular mechanisms, thereby affecting immune function and human health. We found that alcohol-mediated splenic atrophy is largely mediated by increased apoptosis signaling, migration of cells, and inhibition of splenocyte proliferation.

Organic and Inorganic Selenium Compounds Affected Lipidomic Profile of Spleen of Lambs Fed with Diets Enriched in Carnosic Acid and Fish Oil

The purpose of our study was to investigate the effect of 0.35 mg Se/kg basal diet (BD) (Se as sodium selenate (Se6) and yeast rich in seleno-methionine (SeYe)) and 0.1% carnosic acid (CA) supplementation to the diet containing 1% fish oil (F-O) and 2% rapeseed oil (R-O) on the contents of fatty acids (FA), malondialdehyde (MDA), tocopherols (Ts), and total cholesterol (TCh) in lambs' spleens. A total of 24 male lambs (4 groups per 6 animals) have been fed: the control diet-the basal diet (BD) enriched in F-O and R-O; the CA diet-BD enriched in F-O, R-O, and CA; the SeYeCA diet-BD enriched in F-O, R-O, CA, and SeYe; the Se6CA diet-BD enriched in F-O, R-O, CA, and Se6. Dietary modifications affected the profiles of saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids in spleens. The SeYeCA and Se6CA diets increased the docosapentaenoic acid preference in Δ4-desaturase; hence, a higher content of docosahexaenoic acid was found in the spleens of SeYe- or Se6-treated lambs than in spleens of animals receiving the CA and control diets. The SeYeCA and Se6CA diets increased the concentration ratio of n-3long-chain PUFA (n-3LPUFA) to FA (n-3LPUFA/FA) in spleens compared to the control and CA diets. The content of n-3PUFA was higher in the spleens of Se6 treated lambs than in spleens of animals receiving the SeYeCA, CA, and control diets. The Se6CA diet increased the content of c9t11CLA in the spleen compared to the control, CA, and SeYeCA diets. Experimental diets reduced the level of atherogenic FA, the content ratios of n-6PUFA/n-3PUFA and n-6LPUFA/n-3LPUFA, and improved the content ratio of MUFA/FA and the value of the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic FA ratio in the spleen in comparison with the control diet. The experimental diets supplemented with SeYe or Se6 increased levels of TCh and Ts in spleens in comparison with the CA and control CA diets. The present studies documented that Se6, SeYe, and CA influenced the metabolism of FA, Ts, and cholesterol in spleens.

Construction of a molecular regulatory network related to fat deposition by multi-tissue transcriptome sequencing of Jiaxian red cattle

Intramuscular fat (IMF) refers to the fat that accumulates between muscle bundles or within muscle cells, whose content significantly impacts the taste, tenderness, and flavor of meat products, making it a crucial economic characteristic in livestock production. However, the intricate mechanisms governing IMF deposition, involving non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), genes, and complex regulatory networks, remain largely enigmatic. Identifying adipose tissue-specific genes and ncRNAs is paramount to unravel these molecular mysteries. This study, conducted on Jiaxian red cattle, harnessed whole transcriptome sequencing to unearth the nuances of circRNAs and miRNAs across seven distinct tissues. The interplay of these ncRNAs was assessed through differential expression analysis and network analysis. These findings are not only pivotal in unveiling the intricacies of fat deposition mechanisms but also lay a robust foundation for future research, setting the stage for enhancing IMF content in Jiaxian red cattle breeding.

Peripheral nervous system glia in support of metabolic tissue functions

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) relays information between organs and tissues and the brain and spine to maintain homeostasis, regulate tissue functions, and respond to interoceptive and exteroceptive signals. Glial cells perform support roles to maintain nerve function, plasticity, and survival. The glia of the central nervous system (CNS) are well characterized, but PNS glia (PNSG) populations, particularly tissue-specific subtypes, are underexplored. PNSG are found in large nerves (such as the sciatic), the ganglia, and the tissues themselves, and can crosstalk with a range of cell types in addition to neurons. PNSG are also subject to phenotypic changes in response to signals from their local tissue environment, including metabolic changes. These topics and the importance of PNSG in metabolically active tissues, such as adipose, muscle, heart, and lymphatic tissues, are outlined in this review.

Associations of spleen volume with markers of blood count and lipid profile in a large population-based study

Background

The aim of our study was to investigate associations of spleen volume with blood count markers and lipid profile in the general population.

Materials & methods

Cross-sectional data from 1,106 individuals aged 30-90 years from the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-START-2) were analyzed. Blood count markers included red blood cell (RBC) counts, hemoglobin, platelet count, and white blood cell (WBC) counts. Lipid profile included total-cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) as well as triglycerides. Linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, body height, and weight were used to associate standardized spleen volume with blood counts and lipid profile markers.

Results

Spleen volume was positively associated with RBC (β = 0.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.03 to 0.08) and hemoglobin (β = 0.05; 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.09) but inversely with platelet count (β = -16.3; 95% CI = -20.5 to -12.1) and WBC (β = -0.25; 95% CI = -0.37 to -0.14). Furthermore, spleen volume showed inverse associations with total cholesterol (β = -0.17; 95% CI = -0.24 to -0.09), HDL-C (β = -0.08; 95% CI = -0.10 to -0.05), and LDL-C (β = -0.12; 95% CI = -0.17 to -0.06). There was no significant association of spleen volume with triglycerides.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the spleen volume is associated with markers of the blood count and lipid profile in the general population.

The effect of C/N ratio and its frequent addition on commensal and pathogenic bacterial abundances in shrimp Litopeaneus vanname gut in a biofloc system: Ratio and frequent addition interaction matters

The environmental biotic and abiotic factors form a complicated relationship with the host intestinal microbiota. In our study, we applied different levels of C/N ratio (10, 15, 20) and frequent addition times (once, twice, triple a day) in a factorial experimental design. GC/LC analysis of filtrated biofloc (BF) samples revealed the highest relative fold change for the untargeted bioactive molecules among different treatments, whereas the 16s rRNA analysis revealed the change in the shrimp gut microbiota composition. Based on the available literature on the relationship between the bioactive molecules and the available bacteria in this study, the next bioactive molecules were discussed. Proline was associated with Bacteroidota, Flavobacteriaceae, Gammaproteobacteria, and Flavobacteriales. Plumbagine was associated with Norcardiaceae. Phytosphingosin was associated with Bacteroidota. Phosphocholine compound was associated with Bacteroidota. The monobutyl ether, benzofuran, and piperidone were associated with Micobacteriaceae and Mycobacterium. Generally, C/N 15 and 20 once a day, and C/N 20 triple a day have showed a merit over other treatments in term of low pathogenic and unfavorable bacteria, and high commensal bacterial abundances. The revealed bioactive molecule composition showed the complicity of BF as a source for novel compounds as biosecurity agents in BF system. These molecules could be developed to feed additives upgrading the biosecurity level in aquaculture systems. Other bioactive molecules require future studies to reveal novel molecules in term of aquaculture biosecurity control.

Sarcopenia, body composition and factors associated with variceal gastrointestinal bleeding and splenectomy in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is a common complication of cirrhosis and an important predictor of morbimortality. We aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and its associated factors in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (HSS) as well as to evaluate whether muscle mass and function are associated with variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (VUGIB) and previous splenectomy in subjects without other liver diseases.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study including adults with HSS who underwent clinical, biochemical, anthropometric, muscle strength and physical performance evaluations and were submitted to bioelectrical impedance analysis and abdominal ultrasound. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the 2019 European consensus criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 66 patients with HSS (62.1% male; mean age 48.8±8.6 y) were included. Overall, six subjects (9.1%) were diagnosed with probable sarcopenia and none had confirmed sarcopenia. Fat-free body mass index (BMI) was independently associated with VUGIB (odds ratio 0.701 [95% confidence interval 0.51 to 0.96]; p=0.025). Compared with patients who did not undergo surgery, individuals who underwent esophagogastric devascularization combined with splenectomy (EGDS) had higher serum lipid levels, fat percentage and frequency of metabolic syndrome, with lower skeletal muscle mass index and hand grip strength.

CONCLUSIONS

HSS mansoni seems not to cause sarcopenia. However, a lower fat-free BMI was associated with previous VUGIB and the subgroup of patients who underwent EGDS presented higher lipid levels, fat percentage and frequency of metabolic syndrome and lower muscle mass and function.

High-fat diet activates splenic NOD1 and enhances neutrophil recruitment and neutrophil extracellular traps release in the spleen of ApoE-deficient mice

In the course of atherogenesis, the spleen plays an important role in the regulation of extramedullary hematopoiesis, and in the control of circulating immune cells, which contributes to plaque progression. Here, we have investigated the role of splenic nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 (NOD1) in the recruitment of circulating immune cells, as well as the involvement of this immune organ in extramedullary hematopoiesis in mice fed on a high-fat high-cholesterol diet (HFD). Under HFD conditions, the absence of NOD1 enhances the mobilization of immune cells, mainly neutrophils, from the bone marrow to the blood. To determine the effect of NOD1-dependent mobilization of immune cells under pro-atherogenic conditions, Apoe^−/− and Apoe^−/−Nod1^−/− mice fed on HFD for 4 weeks were used. Splenic NOD1 from Apoe^−/− mice was activated after feeding HFD as inferred by the phosphorylation of the NOD1 downstream targets RIPK2 and TAK1. Moreover, this activation was accompanied by the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), as determined by the increase in the expression of peptidyl arginine deiminase 4, and the identification of citrullinated histone H3 in this organ. This formation of NETs was significantly reduced in Apoe^−/−Nod1^−/− mice. Indeed, the presence of Ly6G⁺ cells and the lipidic content in the spleen of mice deficient in Apoe and Nod1 was reduced when compared to the Apoe^−/− counterparts, which suggests that the mobilization and activation of circulating immune cells are altered in the absence of NOD1. Furthermore, confirming previous studies, Apoe^−/−Nod1^−/− mice showed a reduced atherogenic disease, and diminished recruitment of neutrophils in the spleen, compared to Apoe^−/− mice. However, splenic artery ligation reduced the atherogenic burden in Apoe^−/− mice an effect that, unexpectedly was lost in Apoe^−/−Nod1^−/− mice. Together, these results suggest that neutrophil accumulation and activity in the spleen are driven in part by NOD1 activation in mice fed on HFD, contributing in this way to regulating atherogenic progression.

Platelets inhibit development of atherosclerosis in atherosclerotic mice

Platelets can protect from lipopolysaccharide-induced septic shock by inhibiting inflammation, but it is unknown whether platelets have an anti-atherosclerotic effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of platelet transfusion on atherosclerosis (AS) in a mouse model of AS. Apolipoprotein E deficiency (ApoE^-/-) mice were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks to establish a mouse model of AS. Mice weekly underwent bi-weekly injection with or without platelets during AS induction (HFD+platelet). Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Oil Red O, and Sudan IV stainings were used to assess pathological and morphological changes in the aortic tissue. Lipid levels, and liver and kidney function were examined using an automatic biochemical analyzer. Immune histochemical assays were used to detect the infiltration and distribution of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) in the aortic arch. Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to examine the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 in the aorta or the peripheral blood, respectively. Compared with the HFD group, AS pathological lesions from the aortic arch in the HFD+platelet group were significantly smaller and alterations in the lipid metabolism were also less pronounced. Furthermore, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 levels were all significantly reduced in mice that received platelet injection. Platelets transfusion can effectively ameliorate lipid metabolism, suppress the inflammatory response in the vascular wall, and inhibit the development of AS in mice.

Odorant Metabolism in Humans

Odorants are relatively small molecules which are easily taken up and distributed in the human body. Despite their relevance in everyday life, however, only a limited amount of evidence about their metabolism, pathways, and bioactivities in the human body exists. With this Review, we aim to encourage future interdisciplinary research on the function and mechanisms of the biotransformation of odorants, involving different disciplines such as nutrition, medicine, biochemistry, chemistry, and sensory sciences. Starting with a general overview of the different ways of odorant uptake and enzymes involved in the metabolism of odorants, a more precise description of biotransformation processes and their function in the oral cavity, the nose, the lower respiratory tract (LRT), and the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is given together with an overview of the different routes of odorant excretion. Finally, perspectives for future research are discussed.

Integration of Distinct Analysis Strategies Improves Tissue-Trait Association Identification

Integrating genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with transcriptomic data, human complex traits and diseases have been linked to relevant tissues and cell types using different methods. However, different results from these methods generated confusion while no gold standard is currently accepted, making it difficult to evaluate the discoveries. Here, applying three methods on the same data source, we estimated the sensitivity and specificity of these methods in the absence of a gold standard. We established a more specific tissue-trait association atlas by combining the information captured by different methods. Our triangulation strategy improves the performance of existing methods in establishing tissue-trait associations. The results provide better etiological and functional insights for the tissues underlying different human complex traits and diseases.

Exposure to ambient fine particulate matter impedes the function of spleen in the mouse metabolism of high-fat diet

Epidemiological and experimental evidence has been associating the exposure with ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) with metabolic malfunctions such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. As the blood-filter and the important lymphatic organ, spleen participates in the regulation of metabolic balance. In this work, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based lipidomics, metabolomics and proteomics were performed to study the effects of PM_2.5 exposure and high-fat diet (HFD) induced obesity on mice spleen. By comparing the differences in lipids, metabolites, and proteins in the spleens from PM_2.5 and HFD treated mice, we discovered the individual and combined effects of the two risk factors. The results showed the PM_2.5 exposure altered energy metabolism of the mice, as evidenced by the upregulation of TCA cycle. In addition, the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids was also significantly changed, which might be related to the preventive function of spleen in lipid metabolism. The PM_2.5-induced metabolic changes in spleen could further aggravate the adverse impacts of HFD on mice, resulting in impeded splenic metabolism of lipids. This study revealed the effects of PM_2.5 and obesity mice spleen, which might be of great significance to public health.

Adoptive transfer of metabolically reprogrammed macrophages for atherosclerosis treatment in diabetic ApoE−/- mice

Atherosclerosis is characterized by inflammation in the arterial wall, which is known to be exacerbated by diabetes. Therapeutic repression of inflammation is a promising strategy for treating atherosclerosis. In this study, we showed that diabetes aggravated atherosclerosis in apolipoproteinE knockout (ApoE^−/-) mice, in which increased expression of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (Acsl1) in macrophages played an important role. Knockdown of Acsl1 in macrophages (Mφ^shAcsl1) reprogrammed macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype, especially under hyperglycemic conditions. Injection of Mφ^shAcsl1 reprogrammed macrophages into streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic ApoE^−/- mice (ApoE^−/-+ STZ) alleviated inflammation locally in the plaque, liver and spleen. Consistent with the reduction in inflammation, plaques became smaller and more stable after the adoptive transfer of reprogrammed macrophages. Taken together, our findings indicate that increased Acsl1 expression in macrophages play a key role in aggravated atherosclerosis of diabetic mice, possibly by promoting inflammation. Adoptive transfer of Acsl1 silenced macrophages may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis.

1

Increased Acsl1 in macrophages is responsible for the exacerbated inflammation in diabetes

2

Mφ^shAcsl1 is characterized as anti-inflammatory phenotype

3

Adoptive transfer of Mφ^shAcsl1 alleviates atherosclerosis in diabetic ApoE^−/- mice

4

Mφ^shAcsl1 inhibits both local and systemic inflammation in vivo

The impact of splenectomy on human lipid metabolism

BACKGROUND

Splenectomy impacts hematological, immunological, and metabolic functions of the patient. Since our understanding of its metabolic effects, in particular effects on lipid metabolism, is limited, this study aims to investigate the effects of splenectomy on lipid metabolism.

METHODS

The data from 316 patients undergoing splenectomy between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Thirty-eight patients whose serum lipid values were measured both preoperatively and 1 year after surgery were included in this study.

RESULTS

Significantly higher levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) lipid profile were found in the postsplenectomy measurements. However, no significant differences were recorded in levels of triglyceride, HDL, or very-LDL.

CONCLUSION

We determined that splenectomy does impact lipid metabolism, and that the metabolic effects of splenectomy should further be investigated.

Metabolomics Based on 1H-NMR Reveal the Regulatory Mechanisms of Dietary Methionine Restriction on Splenic Metabolic Dysfunction in Obese Mice

Methionine restriction (MR) has been reported to have many beneficial health effects, including stress resistance enhancement and lifespan extension. However, the effects of MR on the splenic metabolic dysfunction induced by obesity in mice remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the scientific problem and clarify its possible mechanisms. C57BL/6J mice in the control group were fed a control diet (0.86% methionine, 4.2% fat) for 34 weeks, and others were fed a high-fat diet (0.86% methionine, 24% fat) for 10 weeks to establish diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse models. Then, the obtained DIO mice were randomly divided into two groups: the DIO group (DIO diet), the DIO + MR group (0.17% methionine, 24% fat) for 24 weeks. Our results indicated that MR decreased spleen weight, and spleen and plasma lipid profiles, promoted lipid catabolism and fatty acid oxidation, glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolism, and improved mitochondrial function and ATP generation in the spleen. Moreover, MR normalized the splenic redox state and inflammation-related metabolite levels, and increased plasma levels of immunoglobulins. Furthermore, MR increased percent lean mass and splenic crude protein levels, activated the autophagy pathway and elevated nucleotide synthesis to maintain protein synthesis in the spleen. These findings indicate that MR can ameliorate metabolic dysfunction by reducing lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the spleen, and the mechanism may be the activation of autophagy pathway.

The Vagus Nerve and Spleen: Influence on White Adipose Mass and Histology of Obese and Non-obese Rats

The vagus nerve (VN) and spleen represent a complex interface between neural and immunological functions, affecting both energy metabolism and white adipose tissue (WAT) content. Here, we evaluated whether vagal and splenic axis participates in WAT mass regulation in obese and non-obese male Wistar rats. High doses of monosodium glutamate (M; 4 g/Kg) were administered during the neonatal period to induce hypothalamic lesion and obesity (M-Obese rats). Non-obese or Control (CTL) rats received equimolar saline. At 60 days of life, M-Obese and CTL rats were randomly distributed into experimental subgroups according to the following surgical procedures: sham, subdiaphragmatic vagotomy (SV), splenectomy (SPL), and SV + SPL (n = 11 rats/group). At 150 days of life and after 12 h of fasting, rats were euthanized, blood was collected, and the plasma levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, insulin, and interleukin 10 (IL10) were analyzed. The visceral and subcutaneous WAT depots were excised, weighed, and histologically evaluated for number and size of adipocytes as well as IL10 protein expression. M-Obese rats showed higher adiposity, hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and insulin resistance when compared with CTL groups (p < 0.05). In CTL and M-Obese rats, SV reduced body weight gain and triglycerides levels, diminishing adipocyte size without changes in IL10 expression in WAT (p< 0.05). The SV procedure resulted in high IL10 plasma levels in CTL rats, but not in the M-Obese group. The splenectomy prevented the SV anti-adiposity effects, as well as blocked the elevation of IL10 levels in plasma of CTL rats. In contrast, neither SV nor SPL surgeries modified the plasma levels of IL10 and IL10 protein expression in WAT from M-Obese rats. In conclusion, vagotomy promotes body weight and adiposity reduction, elevating IL10 plasma levels in non-obese animals, in a spleen-dependent manner. Under hypothalamic obesity conditions, VN ablation also reduces body weight gain and adiposity, improving insulin sensitivity without changes in IL10 protein expression in WAT or IL10 plasma levels, in a spleen-independent manner. Our findings indicate that the vagal-spleen axis influence the WAT mass in a health state, while this mechanism seems to be disturbed in hypothalamic obese animals.

A Novel Model for Nephrotic Syndrome Reveals Associated Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiome and Extramedullary Hematopoiesis

Glomerular kidney disease causing nephrotic syndrome is a complex systemic disorder and is associated with significant morbidity in affected patient populations. Despite its clinical relevance, well-established models are largely missing to further elucidate the implications of uncontrolled urinary protein loss. To overcome this limitation, we generated a novel, inducible, podocyte-specific transgenic mouse model (Epb41l5^fl/fl*Nphs1-rtTA-3G*tetOCre), developing nephrotic syndrome in adult mice. Animals were comprehensively characterized, including microbiome analysis and multiplexed immunofluorescence imaging. Induced knockout mice developed a phenotype consistent with focal segmental glomerular sclerosis (FSGS). Although these mice showed hallmark features of severe nephrotic syndrome (including proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia and dyslipidemia), they did not exhibit overt chronic kidney disease (CKD) phenotypes. Analysis of the gut microbiome demonstrated distinct dysbiosis and highly significant enrichment of the Alistipes genus. Moreover, Epb41l5-deficient mice developed marked organ pathologies, including extramedullary hematopoiesis of the spleen. Multiplex immunofluorescence imaging demonstrated red pulp macrophage proliferation and mTOR activation as driving factors of hematopoietic niche expansion. Thus, this novel mouse model for adult-onset nephrotic syndrome reveals the significant impact of proteinuria on extra-renal manifestations, demonstrating the versatility of this model for nephrotic syndrome-related research.

Molecular Response in Intestinal and Immune Tissues to in Ovo Administration of Inulin and the Combination of Inulin and Lactobacillus lactis Subsp. cremoris

Intestinal microbiota are a key factor in maintaining good health and production results in chickens. They play an important role in the stimulation of immune responses, as well as in metabolic processes and nutrient digestion. Bioactive substances such as prebiotics, probiotics, or a combination of the two (synbiotic) can effectively stimulate intestinal microbiota and therefore replace antibiotic growth promoters. Intestinal microbiota might be stimulated at the early stage of embryo development in ovo. The aim of the study was to analyze the expression of genes related to energy metabolism and immune response after the administration of inulin and a synbiotic, in which lactic acid bacteria were combined with inulin in the intestines and immune tissues of chicken broilers. The experiment was performed on male broiler chickens. Eggs were incubated for 21 days in a commercial hatchery. On day 12 of egg incubation, inulin as a prebiotic and inulin with Lactobacillus lactis subsp. cremoris as a synbiotic were delivered to the egg chamber. The control group was injected with physiological saline. On day 35 post-hatching, birds from each group were randomly selected and sacrificed. Tissues (spleen, cecal tonsils, and large intestine) were collected and intended for RNA isolation. The gene panel (ABCG8, HNF4A, ACOX2, APBB1IP, BRSK2, APOA1, and IRS2) was selected based on the microarray dataset and biological functions of genes related to the energy metabolism and immune responses. Isolated RNA was analyzed using the RT-qPCR method, and the relative gene expression was calculated. In our experiment, distinct effects of prebiotics and synbiotics following in ovo delivery were manifested in all analyzed tissues, with the lowest number of genes with altered expression shown in the large intestines of broilers. The results demonstrated that prebiotics or synbiotics provide a potent stimulation of gene expression in the spleen and cecal tonsils of broiler chickens. The overall number of gene expression levels and the magnitude of their changes in the spleen and cecal tonsils were higher in the group of synbiotic chickens compared to the prebiotic group.

Contribution of Extramedullary Hematopoiesis to Atherosclerosis. The Spleen as a Neglected Hub of Inflammatory Cells

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) incidence is becoming higher. This fact is promoted by metabolic disorders such as obesity, and aging. Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of most of these pathologies. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that begins with the progressive accumulation of lipids and fibrotic materials in the blood-vessel wall, which leads to massive leukocyte recruitment. Rupture of the fibrous cap of the atherogenic cusps is responsible for tissue ischemic events, among them myocardial infarction. Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH), or blood cell production outside the bone marrow (BM), occurs when the normal production of these cells is impaired (chronic hematological and genetic disorders, leukemia, etc.) or is altered by metabolic disorders, such as hypercholesterolemia, or after myocardial infarction. Recent studies indicate that the main EMH tissues (spleen, liver, adipose and lymph nodes) complement the hematopoietic function of the BM, producing circulating inflammatory cells that infiltrate into the atheroma. Indeed, the spleen, which is a secondary lymphopoietic organ with high metabolic activity, contains a reservoir of myeloid progenitors and monocytes, constituting an important source of inflammatory cells to the atherosclerotic lesion. Furthermore, the spleen also plays an important role in lipid homeostasis and immune-cell selection. Interestingly, clinical evidence from splenectomized subjects shows that they are more susceptible to developing pathologies, such as dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis due to the loss of immune selection. Although CVDs represent the leading cause of death worldwide, the mechanisms involving the spleen-atherosclerosis-heart axis cross-talk remain poorly characterized.

Systemic Amelioration via Curcumin in Rats following Splenectomy: Lipid Profile, Endothelial and Oxidative Damage

BACKGROUND

We investigated the postsurgical effects of splenectomy with additional curcumin therapy, as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory substance among the lipid profile and histopathological changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

32 rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group (L): laparotomy, sham group: splenectomy (S), splenectomy group treated with curcumin (SC) and splenectomy group treated with corn oil (SCO) for 28 days. The primary outcomes; total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX-1), secondary outcomes: nuclear factor kappa B (NF-кB), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. Histopathological changes were examined in vascular, intestinal and lung tissues. The analysis was performed by ANOVA.

RESULTS

TG, LDL, ox-LDL, and LOX-1 elevated in S group while reduced by curcumin compared with L group (p < 0.05). Serum and tissue levels of NF-кB and MDA were higher in S group and lower in SC group than L group (p < 0.05). Serum and intestinal levels of SOD and GPx increased in L group while reduced by curcumin (p < 0.05). Total histopathological scores of intestinal tissues were higher in S and SCO groups compared to L and SC groups (p < 0.05). No major changes in vascular and lung tissues were observed except the lymphoid follicles which was higher in S and SCO groups compared to L and SC groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin partially improved the lipid profile dysfunction by modulating NF-кB, MDA, SOD, and GPx in splenectomized rats while less likely improving any vascular and alveolar regeneration.

Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation of brachial and femoral veins, and coagulation and lipid profiles in dogs following open splenectomy

In dogs, splenectomy is mandatory as an emergency following splenic rupture with resultant hemoperitoneum and hypotensive shock. The present work aimed to evaluate the Doppler ultrasonographic parameters of brachial and femoral veins in splenectomized dogs and to investigate the effect of splenectomy on the coagulation and lipid profiles. A total number of 9 dogs underwent clinical, abdominal ultrasonographic and laboratory examinations prior to the surgical operation and kept for 60-day observation period post-splenectomy. Follow-up ultrasonography revealed no serious complications post-splenectomy. Both brachial and femoral veins were imaged medial to their corresponding arteries. Doppler ultrasonographic parameters of both veins showed no significant changes throughout the study period (P > 0.05). Haematological analysis revealed development of anemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytosis in dogs post-splenectomy. Coagulation profile exhibited no significant variations in prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times (P > 0.05). In comparison with their baseline values, the mean concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides were significantly increased 30-day post-splenectomy. In conclusion, it may seem that open splenectomy has no influence on the Doppler ultrasonographic indices of brachial and femoral veins with no evidence of deep vein thrombosis in dogs. However, persistent leukocytosis and thrombocytosis, as well as altered lipid profile may increase the risk of vascular complications with the long run. Therefore, a further long-term study may be required.