Serum lipid levels and factors affecting atherogenic index in Japanese children

[Association Between Apolipoprotein C-3 SstⅠ Polymorphism and Serum Lipids in Patients With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus]

Objective

To investigate the apolipoprotein C-3 (APOC3) gene Sst Ⅰ polymorphism and its relationship with changes in serum lipids in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

A total of 630 pregnant women with GDM and 1027 normal pregnant controls were covered in the study. The genotype and allele frequencies of APOC3 Sst Ⅰ polymorphism were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and glucose (Glu) were measured by enzymatic methods. Plasma insulin (INS) was measured by chemiluminescence. Apolipoproteins A 1 (apoA1) and B (apoB) levels were measured by turbidimetric immunoassay.

Results

The allele frequencies of S1 and S2 of the APOC3 polymorphism at the SstⅠ locus were 0.704 and 0.296 in the GDM group and 0.721 and 0.279 in the control group, respectively. There was no significant difference in genotype frequency and allele frequency of APOC3 Sst Ⅰ polymorphism between the GDM and the control groups ( P>0.05). In the GDM group, those with S2S2 and S1S2 genotypes had higher plasma HDL-C levels and lower atherogenic index (AI) values than those with S1S1 genotype did, with the differences being statistically significant (all P<0.05). GDM patients were then divided into obesity and non-obesity subgroups. Further subgroup analysis showed that the association of APOC3 genotype with changes in HDL-C levels was observed only in obese GDM patients, while the association of APOC3 genotype with changes in AI values was observed in both obese and nonobese patients. In addition, in obese GDM patients, those with S2S2 genotype had significantly higher plasma TG levels than those with S1S1 and S1S2 genotypes did ( P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively). In non-obese GDM patients, those with S2S2 genotype had significantly lower apoB/apoA1 ratio than S2S2 carriers did ( P<0.05). No genotype-related effect on lipid and apolipoprotein variations was evident in the normal controls.

Conclusion

APOC3 Sst Ⅰ polymorphism in GDM patients is associated with HDL-C and TG levels as well as AI value and apoB/apoA1 ratio. The changes in lipid levels and apolipoprotein ratio showed BMI-dependent features. However, association between polymorphism at the locus and the development of GDM was not observed.

Antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and protective effects of Gladiolus psittacinus on hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVES

Gladiolus psittacinus (GP) is an important medicinal plant in folk medicine where its corm is used for treatment of diabetes mellitus. Despite this, there is paucity of scientific information to justify its use as antidiabetic drug. Hence, this study was designed to explore antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and effects of aqueous extract of Gladiolus psittacinus (AGP) on hyperglycemia-associated oxidative stress in pancreas, kidney and liver of diabetic rats.

METHODS

Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced in rats using streptozotocin 50 mg/kg (i.p.). Normal and diabetic rats were treated orally with AGP once a day for 14 days. Antidiabetic effects were evaluated on body weight, fasting blood glucose concentration (FBGC), lipid profiles and serum chemistry. Also, protective effects of AGP were also determined on markers of oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes and histopathology of pancreas, kidney and liver of diabetic rats.

RESULTS

Treatment with AGP emanated to significant decrease of FBGC (552.67-157.33 mg/dL), increase in body weight (100.01-133.76 g) and positive modulation of lipid parameters in diabetic rats. The alteration in the contents of markers of liver and kidney function were significantly modulated in the diabetic rats upon treatment. Also, oxidative damage and antioxidant depletions in pancreas, kidney and liver were significantly mitigated in treated diabetic rats. Structural aberrations in the histopathology slides of pancreas, kidney and liver were improved upon treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

It can be concluded that AGP could be used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its related ailments, thereby justifying its usage in traditional medicine.

Moxonidine ameliorates cardiac injury in rats with metabolic syndrome by regulating autophagy

AIMS

Reduced cardiac autophagy, ischemic injury, sympathetic overactivity, and apoptosis all contribute to metabolic syndrome (MetS)-associated cardiovascular risks. NR4A2, an orphan nuclear receptor NR4A family member, induces autophagy while suppressing apoptosis in myocardial infarction. Moxonidine, a sympathoinhibitor imidazoline1 receptor (I1R) agonist, has beneficial metabolic and hemodynamic effects; however, whether autophagy and/or NR4A2 signaling are involved in moxonidine's cardiovascular effects via I1R activation, is unknown, and is the aim of this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To induce MetS, rats were fed 3 % salt in their diet and 10 % fructose in their drinking water for 12 weeks. MetS-rats were given either moxonidine (6 mg/kg/day, gavage), efaroxan (I1R antagonist, 0.6 mg/kg/day, i.p), both treatments, or vehicles for the last two weeks. Blood pressure, lipid profile, and glycemic control were evaluated. Histopathological examination, circulating cardiac troponin I (c-TnI), proinflammatory interleukin-6 (IL-6), apoptosis (active caspase-3 and Fas-immunostaining), interstitial fibrosis [transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Mallory's trichrome staining], and extracellular matrix remodeling [matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)], were used to assess cardiac pathology. Cardiac NR4A2 and its downstream factor, p53, as well as autophagic flux markers, SQSTM1/p62, LC3, and Beclin-1 were also determined.

KEY FINDINGS

Moxonidine significantly ameliorated MetS-induced metabolic and hemodynamic derangements and the associated cardiac pathology. Moxonidine restored NR4A2 and p53 myocardial levels and enhanced autophagic flux via modulating SQSTM1/p62, LC3, and Beclin-1. Efaroxan reversed the majority of the moxonidine-induced improvements.

SIGNIFICANCE

The current study suggests that autophagy modulation via I1R activation is involved in moxonidine-mediated cardiac beneficial effects in MetS.

Hypolipidemic, Antioxidant and Cardioprotective Effects of the Aqueous Extract from Scorzanera Undulata Tubers in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

AIMS

This study aimed to assess the effect of Scorzanera undulata on plasma lipid profile.

BACKGROUND

Scorzanera undulata (S. undulata) is a medicinal plant popularly used in the Moroccan pharmacopeia as traditional medicine, particularly to treat diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of aqueous extract of Scorzanera undulata tubers (AERSU) on lipid profile and atherogenic indices in Wistar rats. Biochemical parameters such as Total Cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-and high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (LDL and HDL) were assessed. Furthermore, the in vitro antioxidant activity of AERSU was also evaluated.

METHODS

The effect of tubers aqueous extract (AERSU) of S. undulata (20 mg/kg) on plasma lipid profile was investigated in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The aqueous extract was tested for its in vitro antioxidant activity. Besides, cardiovascular parameters were estimated.

RESULTS

Treatment with AERSU significantly improved the weight in diabetic rats and decreased plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL lipoproteins levels. Furthermore, the extract had a favorable impact on the Atherogenic Index (AI) and Coronary Risk Index (CRI). In addition, AERSU seems to possess a potent in vitro antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates that aqueous Scorzanera undulate extract exhibits antidyslipidemic and antioxidant activities.

Anti-hypercholesterolemic potential of diet supplemented with Anchomanes difformis and Pleurotus tuberregium tubers in high cholesterol fed rats

Background

One significant ethnomedicinal motivation behind Pleurotus tuberregium (PTT) and Anchomanes difformis (ADT) tubers is cardiovascular-related conditions treatment. This investigation is in this way planned for deciding the impact of PTT and ADT enhanced eating routine on key enzymes linked with hypercholesterolemia in elevated cholesterol fed rodents.

Methods

Rats were isolated into control group, hypercholesterolemic-prompted untreated group, hypercholesterolemic-treated groups with dietary routine containing PTT (5% and 10%), ADT (5% and 10%), 5% PTT and 5% ADT conbination and traditional medication, atorvastatin for 28 days. Ten rodents were utilized for every one of the groups.

Results

Feeding with PTT and ADT comprehensive eating regimen and their combination significantly (P < 0.05) diminished the AChE, HMG-CoA, ALT, AST, ALP, LDH and CK activities and levels of mevalonate, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDLch), atherogenic indices, MDA and ROS yet significantly increased the SOD, CAT, GPx activities, and level of HDL, GSH when contrasted with HC-initiated untreated rodents. Likewise, histopathological of liver and heart demonstrated no obsessive changes in all the treated groups when contrasted with healthy control group. HPLC fingerprinting of the PTT and ADT aqueous concentrates uncovered the nearness of ferulic acid, vanillic acid, catechin, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid and gallic acid. Notwithstanding, aqueous concentrate of ADT contained plentiful convergences of the polyphenolics when contrasted with PTT concentrate.

Conclusions

The tubers HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity could additionally support their antihypercholesterolemic use in folk medication. Accordingly, the tubers may in this way be valuable as restorative nourishment for helpful treatment of clinical conditions related hypercholesterolemia with the ADT diet holding more guarantee.

N-acetyl cysteine can blunt metabolic and cardiovascular effects via down-regulation of cardiotrophin-1 in rat model of fructose-induced metabolic syndrome

In this study, we investigated the ability of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) to alleviate the metabolic disorders in fructose-induced metabolic syndrome (MS) in male rats and to examine its protective effect on aortic and cardiac tissues via its influence on cardiotrophin-1 (CT-1) expression. NAC (20 mg/kg b.w./day) was administered to fructose induced MS animals for 12 weeks. Chronic fructose consumption (20% w/v) increased body weight gain, relative heart weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), insulin resistance (IR), and associated with metabolic alterations. Histological and immunohistochemical examination revealed aortic stiffness and myocardial degeneration and fibrosis together with increased CT-1 expression. Treatment with NAC improved IR, SBP, DBP, and mitigated dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress. Additionally, NAC down-regulated CT-1 expression in the heart and aorta. These findings demonstrated the protective effect of NAC against aortic and myocardial degeneration and fibrosis through down-regulation of CT-1 in fructose induced MS animal model.

Effect of Curculigo pilosa supplemented diet on blood sugar, lipid metabolism, hepatic oxidative stress and carbohydrate metabolism enzymes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has continued to raise concern globally and Curculigo pilosa (CP) is used for its treatment and management in folkloric medicine. In this study, the in vitro antioxidant abilities of CP and the effects of CP-supplemented diets on blood sugar, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and key carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were investigated.

METHODS

Polyphenol contents (total phenolic and total flavonoid) and antioxidant ability of different extracts of CP were determined in vitro. Diabetes mellitus were stimulated in healthy rats by single intraperitoneal administration of 50 mg/kg streptozotocin and it was confirmed by elevated blood glucose level after 3 days. Thirty six rats were distributed into six groups of six rats each and diabetic rats were fed with 5 and 10% CP-supplemented diet for 21 days. Thereafter, the effects of the dietary regimen were evaluated on blood glucose, body weight, hepatic carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, lipid profile, oxidative stress markers, serum markers of hepatic and renal damages and histopathology studies.

RESULTS

Different extracts of CP contained polyphenol contents and exhibited antioxidant properties in different models used. Diabetic rats showed elevated level of blood glucose and body weight loss. Treatment of diabetic rats with CP-supplemented diet significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the blood glucose and improved body weight loss. Also, the treatment with the CP-supplemented diet significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the activities of hepatic glycolytic (hexokinase and glucose-6-dehydrogenase) and lowered the gluconeogenic (fructose 1, 6 biphosphatase and glucose-6-phosphatase) enzymes in diabetic rats. The lipid profile, oxidative stress markers and serum markers of hepatic and renal damages were significantly (p < 0.05) restored to near normalcy in the diabetic rats. Histopathological slides also showed improvements in pancreas and hepatic tissues of diabetic rats treated with CP-supplemented diet.

CONCLUSION

Data obtained in this study suggested that CP-supplemented diet could be used as dietary regimen in the management of DM.

Antidiabetic activity of corn steep liquor extract of Curculigo pilosa and its solvent fractions in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The rhizome of Curculigo pilosa (CP) prepared with Corn steep liquor (CSL), is traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. In this study, antidiabetic activity of the CSL extract and its fractions (butanol and methanol) were evaluated in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced by single intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) and diabetic rats were treated with 300 mg/kg bodyweight of the extract(s) for 28 days. Antidiabetic effect was monitored by plasma blood glucose, oral glucose tolerances test (OGGT), body weight and heamatological indices. Also serum urea, creatinine, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate and alanine transaminases were evaluated. The levels of hepatic glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide were assessed; also histopathology of the hepatic tissues was examined. Oral administration of the extract resulted in significant (p < 0.05) reduction of plasma blood glucose (29.32% crude extract and 22.96% butanol fraction) and also increased body weight (20.61% crude extract, 13.44% butanol fraction and 6.23% methanol fraction) of diabetic rats. The heamotogical indices, plasma parameters and hepatic oxidative stress in diabetic rats were returned to near normalcy following treatment with the extract(s). The GC-MS analysis of the extract revealed the presence of stilbene, a proven antidiabetic agent, which might be responsible for the antidiabetic activity. The results obtained suggest that the CSL extract of CP could be used in management of diabetes mellitus thus providing scientific validation of its use as an antidiabetic agent.

On artherogenic index of plasma in sickle cell anaemia patients

INTRODUCTION

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is an inherited abnormality of haemoglobin associated with reduced life expectancy. Patients' complications include dyslipideamia. This study was aimed at determining the artherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in sickle cell anaemia patients and compares the value to HbAA controls value. A high AIP is strongly predictive of elevated cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

A comparative study was conducted among SCA patients attending the haematology clinic, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and HbAA Phenotype controls. A total of 304 participants were recruited consisting of equal numbers of SCA and HbAA controls. Single lipid profiles were done; logarithms of triglycerides/high density lipoprotein were calculated to obtain AIP and lipid profile ratios established for all participants.

RESULTS

There were lower mean values of Total Cholesterol (TC), High Density Lipoprotein(HDL) and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) amongst SCD participants than controls and higher mean values of triglycerides (TG) and Very Low Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) in SCD p < 0.05. The AIP in SCD ranges from -0.62 to 1.32 while that of controls ranges from -0.56 to 0.61.The mean AIP were 0.14 ± 0.29 and -0.009 ± 0.26 in SCD and controls respectively. P value = 0.002.

CONCLUSION

AIP value is higher in sickle cell anaemia than controls, the former have lower mean values of TC, HDL and LDL and higher mean values of TG and VLDL.

Cardiovascular disease mortality in relation to physical activity during adolescence and adulthood in Japan: Does school-based sport club participation matter?

We examined potential associations of sport club participation during adolescence and sports-related physical activity during adulthood with mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in a Japanese population. Between 1988 and 1990, 29,526 men and 41,043 women aged 40-79 years responded to a questionnaire including questions about the frequency of sports participation at baseline and sport club participation during junior/senior high school. Subjects were followed-up until the end of 2009, and 4230 cardiovascular deaths (870 CHD, 1859 stroke) were identified. Cox proportional-hazard regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR). During the first-two thirds of the follow-up - where the proportional hazards assumption was met - the multivariate-adjusted HR (95% confidence interval) for total CVD mortality was 0.77 (0.61-0.98) among men and 0.82 (0.61-1.10) among women who were physically active at baseline (≥5 h/week versus 1-2 h/week). The corresponding HRs for coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality were 0.65 (0.39-1.07) and 0.40 (0.17-0.91), respectively. The combined associations of sports participation during adulthood and adolescence were also examined. Among men who participated in sports for ≥5 h/week at baseline, the multivariate-adjusted HR for those who also engaged in sport club activities during adolescence was 0.89 (0.61-1.30) for total CVD mortality and 0.24 (0.08-0.71) for CHD mortality when compared to non-participants. Among women, no statistically significant differences were found between sport club participants and non-participants. In conclusion, participating in sport clubs during adolescence might lead to a more pronounced risk-reduction for CHD mortality among men who also participate in sport activities during adulthood.

Streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats: effects of White Butterfly (Clerodendrum volubile) leaves on blood glucose levels, lipid profile and antioxidant status

White Butterfly (Clerodendrum volubile) leaf is commonly used in traditional medicine for the management of various diseases including diabetes without the full understanding of the scientific basis for its use. This study sought to evaluate the antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effect of C. volubile leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Aqueous extract of C. volubile was prepared and its effect assessed on relevant enzymes associated with diabetes. Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly separated into 10 groups each containing five rats. The induction of diabetes in rats was by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (65 mg/kg body weight) while C. volubile extract was administered orally to diabetic and non-diabetic animals, at the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight for 14 days. Metformin (100 mg/kg body weight) served as positive control. Clerodendrum volubile extract inhibited α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 0.20 mg/ml) and α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 0.58 mg/ml). Furthermore, administration of C. volubile extract significantly reduced the elevated plasma glucose level and body weight, improved kidney functions, attenuated oxidative stress by decreasing MDA levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities, reinstated the lipid profile to nearly normal level and restored pancreatic histological integrity in diabetic rats. The results reveal that C. volubile represents a source of phytochemicals that exerts their antidiabetic effects through the modulation of glycemic and atherogenic indices as well as mitigation of free-radical-mediated damage.

Effect of N-Acetylcysteine on Dyslipidemia and Carbohydrate Metabolism in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by insulin-deficient production leading to hyperglycemia, which is associated with diabetic complications such as cardiovascular diseases. Antioxidants have been proving a good alternative to diabetic complications, with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) having antioxidant characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of NAC on the lipid profile and the atherogenic index (AI) in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats.

Method

32 male Wistar rats (60 days of age) weighting ±250 g were randomly distributed into four groups (n = 8): CTRL: control rats; CTRL+NAC: control rats treated with NAC; DM: diabetic rats; DM+NAC: diabetic rats treated with NAC. T1DM was induced using STZ (60 mg/kg, ip; single dose), and NAC (25 mg/kg/day) was administrated by gavage, for 37 days. The animals received chow and water ad libitum. After the experimental period, blood and cardiac tissue samples were collected to analyze energetic metabolism, lipid profile, and AI.

Results

NAC decreased (p < 0.01) glycemia, energy intake, carbohydrate, and protein consumption in diabetic rats (DM+NAC), when compared with DM, while the alimentary efficiency was improved (p < 0.01) in treated diabetic rats (DM+NAC). Diabetic rats treated with NAC decreased (p < 0.01) lipid profile and AI in diabetic rats (DM+NAC) when compared to DM.

Conclusion

NAC improves lipid profile and decreases AI in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Comparative alteration in atherogenic indices and hypocholesteremic effect of palm oil and palm oil mill effluent in normal albino rats

The comparative hypocholesteremic effect of feeding palm oil and palm oil mill effluent (POME) was investigated in male albino rats. Diets were prepared and designed to contain 50% of energy as carbohydrate, 35% as fat, and 15% as protein. Groups of six rats were each fed one of these diets, while a group was fed pelletized mouse chow which served as the control. Feeding on palm oil and POME led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and vLDL. Feeding on POME led to significant increase (p < 0.05) in cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL levels in brain tissues. Increased hepatic LDL level was also observed in POME fed rats. Except for hepatic triglyceride and tissues HDL level, a rather reduced level of the studied lipids was observed in the serum and tissues of palm oil fed rats compared to POME. These results indicate the protective potentials of palm oil against cardiovascular disease, as well as hyperlipidemia that characterize obesity and hypertension; as compared to its effluent.

Anti-hyperlipidemic activity of an extract from roots and rhizomes of Panicum repens L. on high cholesterol diet-induced hyperlipidemia in rats

The hypolipidemic effect of an ethanolic extract from the roots and rhizomes of Panicum repens L. was investigated in rats suffering from high-cholesterol, diet-induced hyperlipidemia, and the phytochemicals in the extract were analyzed. The extract was administered p.o. in doses of 250 mg/kg/day together with cholesterol at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for 7 weeks. The high-cholesterol diet caused a significant increase in total lipids, total cholesterol (TC), total triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and the atherogenic index, whereas the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was significantly decreased. Administration of the P. repens extract (p<0.05) significantly reduced the rise of the serum levels of total lipids, TC, TG, and LDL-C, as well as the atherogenic index, whereas it significantly increased (p<0.05) the level of HDL-C. HPLC analysis of the phenolics and flavonoids in the extract revealed the presence of gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, chicoric acid, primulic acid, rutin, apigenin-7-glucoside, and quercetin. In conclusion, the P. repens extract was found to possess hypolipidemic activity in high-fat, diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats.

Antiobesity and Hypolipidemic Activity of Moringa oleifera Leaves against High Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Rats

In the present study, the methanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MEMOL) was evaluated for antiobesity activity in rats. The antiobesity potential of MEMOL was studied against high fat diet-induced obesity (HFD) in rats. In this study, chronic administration of HFD in rats produced hypercholesterolemia (116.2 ± 0.27 mg/dL), which led to an increase in the body weight (225 gr), total cholesterol, triglycerides (263.0 ± 4.69 mg/dL), and attenuation in the levels of HDL (34.51 ± 2.20 mg/dL) as well as changes in body temperature of animals. Treatment of obese rats with MEMOL for 49 days resulted in a significant (P<0.001) change in body weight, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL level along with a significant (P<0.001) increase in body temperature as compared to the HFD-induced obesity. MEMOL treated rats also showed a significant decrease in the level of liver biomarkers, organ weight, and blood glucose level. Further, rats treated with MEMOL (200 mg and 400 mg/kg) show reduced atherogenic index (1.7 ± 0.6 and 0.87 ± 0.76). The results indicate that the rats treated with Moringa oleifera (MO) have significantly attenuated the body weight without any change in the feed intake and also elicited significant thermogenic effect and to act as hypolipidemic and thermogenic property in obesity related disorders.

Relationships between birth weight and serum cholesterol levels in healthy Japanese late adolescents

Poor growth in utero has been suggested to be associated with adverse levels of serum cholesterol concentrations in later life. In Asia, there have only been a limited number of studies examining the relationship between fetal status and serum lipids, especially in adolescents. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between birth weight and serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels; adjusting for current physical status including percent body fat, physical activity and nutrient intake in healthy Japanese late adolescents. The data of 573 late adolescents with an average age of 17.6 (287 boys and 286 girls) who underwent physical examinations which included blood sampling and who had all the required data, were analyzed. Birth weight was obtained from their maternal and child health handbook. Multiple regression analysis showed that birth weight was positively associated with serum HDL in girls, independently of percent body fat or fat intake, when adjusted for current body height and weight. There were no associations between birth weight and serum HDL in boys, or serum LDL in either sex.

LDL-cholesterol and body mass index among Japanese schoolchildren: a population-based cross-sectional study

Background

Serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is one of the most important risk factors for coronary heart disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between LDL-C and body mass index (BMI) in population-based Japanese schoolchildren.

Methods

The subjects comprised all fourth graders and seventh graders in Ina Town, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, during 2002-2009. Information about each subject’s age, sex, and family history of hypercholesterolemia was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The body height, weight, and LDL-C were measured for each child. LDL-C was measured using the direct method. According to the LDL-C criteria of the Japan Atherosclerosis Society, LDL-C level was categorized into three subgroups: acceptable, < 110 mg/dL; borderline, 110-139 mg/dL; and high, ≥ 140 mg/dL. Children with either borderline or high LDL-C level were considered to have high-normal LDL-C (HLDL-C).

Results

Data from a total of 5869 subjects were analyzed. A higher BMI category was associated with a higher prevalence of HLDL-C regardless of sex or grade level (P < 0.05). When compared with the <50th percentile BMI category, the odds ratio (OR) for HLDL-C was statistically significant in the 75th to 84th percentile category of fourth-grade boys (OR: 1.95, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.28-2.97), the 85th to 94th percentile of fourth-grade girls (2.52, 1.74-3.64), and the 85th to 94th percentile of seventh-grade boys (2.04, 1.31-3.20) and girls (1.90, 1.24-2.91).

Conclusion

A statistically significant association between LDL-C levels and BMI was observed in Japanese school children.

Trends in risk factors for cardiovascular disease among Iranian adolescents: the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, 1999-2008

OBJECTIVES

Data on secular trends in adolescent obesity and dyslipidemia are limited. Data on obesity status collected during 3 surveys were used to evaluate these trends in obesity and dyslipidemia among Tehranian adolescents and to assess the likelihood of risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

We analyzed data for adolescents (age 10 to 19 years) from 3 cross-sectional surveys of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study: 1999-2001 (n = 3010, 47.2% males), 2002-2005 (n = 1107, 48.4% males), and 2006-2008 (n = 1090, 46.6% males). Overweight and abdominal obesity were defined using Iranian body mass index (BMI) percentiles, International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) criteria, and Iranian waist circumference (WC) charts. Hypertension was defined by using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's recommended cut points, and dyslipidemia was defined according to the recent recommendations of the American Heart Association.

RESULTS

The overall adjusted prevalences of "at risk for overweight" and overweight changed from 13% and 8% (using Iranian cutoffs), respectively, and 14.8% and 4.7% (using IOTF criteria) in 1999-2001 to 19% and 15% (Iranian cutoffs) and 23.0% and 9.2% (IOTF criteria) in 2006-2008 (P < 0.01 for all comparisons). The prevalence of abdominal obesity increased in males from 14.5% in 1999-2001 to 33.3% in 2006-2008 (P < 0.001). Almost half the adolescents had low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the 3 surveys. In all surveys, as BMI and WC increased, multivariate age- and sex-adjusted odds ratios of low HDL-C and high triglyceride levels significantly increased. Overweight was associated with a greater likelihood of these risk factors, as compared with increased WC.

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight and abdominal obesity are increasing in Tehranian adolescents, and these increases are accompanied by abnormalities in levels of serum triglyceride and HDL-C.

Effects of total glucosides from paeony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall) roots on experimental atherosclerosis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Total glucosides of paeony (TGP), compounds extracted from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora Pall, have been used as an anti-inflammatory drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China. Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of atherosclerotic vascular disease. Risk of cardiovascular diseases is significantly higher in patients with RA than in normal population. It has a great significance to study the effects of TGP on atherosclerosis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the effects of TGP on atherosclerosis induced by excessive administration of vitamin D and cholesterol in rats and study the mechanisms involved.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Atherosclerosis was induced by excessive administration of vitamin D and cholesterol in rats. TGP was intragastrically administered for 15 weeks. The serum concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured by automatic biochemistry analyzer. Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were determined by immunoturbidimetry method, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The morphological changes of aorta were observed with optical microscopy.

RESULTS

Compared to controls, TGP significantly lowered the serum level of TC, TG, LDL-C, ApoB, TNF-alpha, IL-6 and CRP, increased the ratios of HDL-C/LDL-C and ApoA1/ApoB, decreased the intima-media thickness (IMT) of abdominal aortal wall and improved the morphological change of the aorta.

CONCLUSIONS

TGP may attenuate the development of atherosclerotic disease. The beneficial effects are associated with its lowering blood lipids and inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines.

Opposing roles of PARP-1 in MMP-9 and TIMP-2 expression and mast cell degranulation in dyslipidemic dilated cardiomyopathy

INTRODUCTION

Previously, we demonstrated that inhibition of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) exerts protective effects against high-fat (HF) diet-induced atherogenesis in part by increasing tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2 expression. Given that characteristics of dilated cardiomyopathy closely associate with atherosclerosis and are mediated by an imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and TIMPs, we hypothesized that PARP-1 gene deletion may protect against HF-induced cardiac hypertrophy and dilatations by altering TIMP-2/MMPs balance in favor of a maintenance of tissue homeostasis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Hemodynamic parameters determined by echocardiography were similar in ApoE(-/-) mice and PARP-1-deficient ApoE(-/-) mice (DKO) fed a regular diet (RD). However, histological analysis revealed that cardiomyocytes of ApoE(-/-) mice on RD were hypertrophied, displaying an enlarged cell body and nucleus, traits that were absent in DKO animals. HF diet-fed ApoE(-/-) mice exhibited increased interventricular septum, left ventricular (LV) internal dimension, LV volume, and LV mass in addition to a separation of myocardial fibers suggestive of dilated cardiomyopathy. PARP-1 gene deletion protected against these degenerative changes. MMP activity was dramatically increased in hearts of ApoE(-/-) mice on HF diet and was accompanied by increased collagen degradation, mast cell degranulation, and increased myocyte cell death. PARP-1 gene knockout was associated with increased TIMP-2 expression antagonizing, as a result, the damaging effects of active MMPs.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that PARP-1 gene deletion exerts protective effects against HF diet-induced dilated cardiomyopathy by maintaining increased expression of TIMP-2. With additional protective effects against cell death and inflammation, PARP-1 deficiency preserves cardiac tissue homeostasis.

Adiponectin and resistin concentrations after glucose load in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome

Our aims were to evaluate the serum adiponectin and resistin levels at fasting and after glucose load and their interaction with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Twenty-two adolescents with PCOS and 16 healthy controls were included in the study. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in all adolescents. Fasting lipids was measured. Insulin, glucose, adiponectin, and resistin levels were measured at 0 and 120 min of OGTT. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI), fasting glucose-to-insulin ratio (FGIR), and the whole -body insulin sensitivity index (ISI) were calculated. Fasting adiponectin was correlated with ISI (r = 0.729, p < 0.0001), FGIR (r = 0.696, p < 0.0001), QUICKI (r = 0.592, p = 0.004) and HDL-C (r = 0.516, p = 0.028), systolic blood pressure (r = -0.732, p < 0.0001), body mass index (r = -0.738, p < 0.0001), waist circumference (r = -0.706, p < 0.0001), and HOMA-IR (r = -0.595, p = 0.003). No correlation was found between resistin and insulin resistance indexes. Obese adolescents with PCOS have increased CVD risk such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance than normo-weight PCOS. Hypoadiponectinaemia could be increase risks levels in obese girls with PCOS.

Protective effects of PARP-1 knockout on dyslipidemia-induced autonomic and vascular dysfunction in ApoE mice: effects on eNOS and oxidative stress

The aims of this study were to investigate the role of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-1 in dyslipidemia-associated vascular dysfunction as well as autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Apolipoprotein (ApoE)^−/− mice fed a high-fat diet were used as a model of atherosclerosis. Vascular and autonomic functions were measured in conscious mice using telemetry. The study revealed that PARP-1 plays an important role in dyslipidemia-associated vascular and autonomic dysfunction. Inhibition of this enzyme by gene knockout partially restored baroreflex sensitivity in ApoE^−/− mice without affecting baseline heart-rate and arterial pressure, and also improved heart-rate responses following selective blockade of the autonomic nervous system. The protective effect of PARP-1 gene deletion against dyslipidemia-induced endothelial dysfunction was associated with preservation of eNOS activity. Dyslipidemia induced PARP-1 activation was accompanied by oxidative tissue damage, as evidenced by increased expression of iNOS and subsequent protein nitration. PARP-1 gene deletion reversed these effects, suggesting that PARP-1 may contribute to vascular and autonomic pathologies by promoting oxidative tissue injury. Further, inhibition of this oxidative damage may account for protective effects of PARP-1 gene deletion on vascular and autonomic functions. This study demonstrates that PARP-1 participates in dyslipidemia-mediated dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and that PARP-1 gene deletion normalizes autonomic and vascular dysfunctions. Maintenance of eNOS activity may be associated with the protective effect of PARP-1 gene deletion against dyslipidemia-induced endothelial dysfunction.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) consumption improves Glutathione and HDL-cholesterol levels in experimental diabetes

The aim of this investigation was to assess the influence of peanut (Arachis hypogaea) consumption on oxidant-antioxidant status and lipid profile in Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. 32 rats were divided into 4 groups as control, control+peanut, diabetic, diabetic+peanut. Control and diabetic groups were fed on standard rat chow whereas control+peanut and diabetic+peanut were fed on standard rat chow supplemented with 0.63 g % peanut for 12 weeks. Serum glucose levels, lipids, Glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and atherogenic index (AI) levels were determined at the end of the experiment. In the diabetic group TG (Triglyceride), TC (Total cholesterol), LDL-C (LDL-cholesterol) levels and atherogenic indexes increased significantly whereas HDL-C (HDL-cholesterol) level decreased significantly compared to the control group. The supplementation with peanut in the diabetic group led to significantly higher HDL-C levels and lower AI levels compared to diabetic group. Peanut consumption increased GSH levels significantly both in control and diabetic groups. In conclusion, this study shows that peanut consumption may improve oxidant-antioxidant status in healthy and diabetic status without increasing blood lipids. Moreover, increased HDL-C levels and decreased AI levels in diabetic rats indicate that, peanut consumption may have protective effects against cardiovascular complications of diabetes.

Serum leptin, oxidized low density lipoprotein and plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine levels and their relationship with dyslipidaemia in adolescent girls with polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate serum leptin, oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels and their interaction with dyslipidaemia in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

PATIENTS AND DESIGN

The study group consisted of 23 obese (obPCOS) and 21 nonobese girls with PCOS (nPCOS), and 31 lean healthy controls. PCOS was defined by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria as the presence of chronic oligoanovulation and hyperandrogenism. Fasting leptin, ox-LDL, ADMA and detailed lipid-lipoprotein profile were determined. Atherogenic index (AI) was calculated as [Total cholesterol - HDL cholesterol/HDL cholesterol]. Logarithmic transformations were made for ox-LDL.

RESULTS

Total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein A levels and AI were higher and apolipoprotein AI was lower in obPCOS compared to those in controls (P < 0.05). LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein A levels were higher in nPCOS compared to controls (P < 0.05). ADMA and ox-LDL levels did not differ in the three groups. Leptin was significantly higher in obPCOS compared with that in the other two groups (P < 0.001) and it was correlated with triglycerides (r = 0.62), VLDL cholesterol (r = 0.45), lipoprotein A (r = 0.38) and AI (r = 0.43) in the PCOS group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that ADMA and ox-LDL levels in adolescent PCOS subjects were not different than those in controls. Abnormal lipid profile was shown in obese and nonobese girls with PCOS and leptin was related with these lipid abnormalities in the PCOS subjects.