Modulatory Effect of Dietary Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Immunity, Represented by Phagocytic Activity

n-3 enriched Fish oil diet enhanced intestinal barrier integrity in broilers after Eimeria infection

Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp. results in substantial economic losses in the poultry industry. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids-enriched fish oil on growth performance, intestinal barrier integrity, and intestinal immune response of broilers challenged with Eimeria spp. A total of 576 fourteen-day-old broilers were randomly assigned in a completely randomized design with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement, comprising 2 diets supplemented with either 5% fish oil or 5% soybean oil, and 3 Eimeria spp. infection levels: a nonchallenge control, a low dose of Eimeria challenge, and a high challenge dose. The results of the study revealed significant interactions between diet and Eimeria challenge to parameters of gut barrier integrity and feed intake. A significant interaction was observed in feed intake between 5 and 8 d postinfection (DPI), where the fish oil groups exhibited a higher amount of feed intake compared to the soybean oil diet groups after coccidiosis infection. The effects of the fish oil diet resulted in enhanced gut barrier integrity, as evidenced by a trend of decreased gastrointestinal leakage and a lower mean of small intestine lesion scores after Eimeria challenge. Additionally, significant interactions were noted between Eimeria spp. challenge and diet regarding jejunal crypt depth. The positive impact of the fish oil diet was particularly noticeable with the high Eimeria challenge dose. Overall, these findings underscore the relationship between the fish oil diet and Eimeria challenge on broiler chicken intestinal health. Dietary supplementation of fish oil has the potential to maintain small intestine barrier integrity with severe Eimeria infection conditions.

Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their potential therapeutic role in protozoan infections

Protozoa exert a serious global threat of growing concern to human, and animal, and there is a need for the advancement of novel therapeutic strategies to effectively treat or mitigate the impact of associated diseases. Omega polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-PUFAs), including Omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6), are constituents derived from various natural sources, have gained significant attention for their therapeutic role in parasitic infections and a variety of essential structural and regulatory functions in animals and humans. Both ω-3 and ω-6 decrease the growth and survival rate of parasites through metabolized anti-inflammatory mediators, such as lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins, and have both in vivo and in vitro protective effects against various protozoan infections. The ω-PUFAs have been shown to modulate the host immune response by a commonly known mechanism such as (inhibition of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolic process, production of anti-inflammatory mediators, modification of intracellular lipids, and activation of the nuclear receptor), and promotion of a shift towards a more effective immune defense against parasitic invaders by regulation the inflammation like prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxane, are involved in controlling the inflammatory reaction. The immune modulation may involve reducing inflammation, enhancing phagocytosis, and suppressing parasitic virulence factors. The unique properties of ω-PUFAs could prevent protozoan infections, representing an important area of study. This review explores the clinical impact of ω-PUFAs against some protozoan infections, elucidating possible mechanisms of action and supportive therapy for preventing various parasitic infections in humans and animals, such as toxoplasmosis, malaria, coccidiosis, and chagas disease. ω-PUFAs show promise as a therapeutic approach for parasitic infections due to their direct anti-parasitic effects and their ability to modulate the host immune response. Additionally, we discuss current treatment options and suggest perspectives for future studies. This could potentially provide an alternative or supplementary treatment option for these complex global health problems.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing enteral immunonutrition (EIN) and standard enteral nutrition regarding biochemical, immunological, and clinical outcomes in gastrectomy patients with gastric cancer and investigating evidence networks for EIN formulae

Introduction

For patients with gastric cancer who have undergone gastrectomy, recent research has shown that enteral immunonutrition (EIN) is more successful than enteral nutrition (EN) at boosting host immunity and, in turn, improving prognosis. The claimed outcomes, however, are inconsistent.

Aim

This meta-analysis examines how EIN affects biochemical, immunological, and clinical outcomes for gastrectomy (GC) patients following gastrectomy and EIN formulae evidence networks.

Material and methods

A comprehensive search of the Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases identified English-language peer-reviewed journal papers. The odds ratio (OR) and standard mean difference (SMD) were calculated, along with their 95% confidence intervals. The heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane Q and I2 statistics and the appropriate p-value. The analysis used RevMan 5.3.

Results

This meta-analysis included 10 RCTs involving 1409 GC patients, 714 of whom were assigned to EIN and 695 to EN. After EIN treatment, serum proalbumin, serum transferrin, lymphocyte count, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio had statistically significant standardised mean differences (SMDs) of 2.39, 2.39, 1.34, and 0.72, respectively. EIN reduces postoperative infectious complications with an OR of 0.63 (95% CI: 0.41-0.77) for infections, an OR of 0.63 for complications, and an SMD of -1.05 for systemic inflammations. A network diagram with high-quality data and a well-defined network design with consistent and accurate connection shows that EIN can improve serum protein levels, immunological parameters, and post-operative problems.

Conclusions

The use of EIN has been shown to enhance cellular immunity, regulate inflammatory response, and decrease postoperative complications in GC patients who underwent major GI surgery.

Role of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic, in the regulation of gene expression during the development of obesity: a systematic review

Introduction

There exists a correlation between obesity and the consumption of an excessive amount of calories, with a particular association between the intake of saturated and trans fats and an elevated body mass index. Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, have been identified as potential preventive nutrients against the cardiometabolic hazards that are commonly associated with obesity. The objective of this comprehensive review was to elucidate the involvement of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, in the modulation of gene expression during the progression of obesity.

Methods

The present analysis focused on primary studies that investigated the association between long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, gene expression, and obesity in individuals aged 18 to 65 years. Furthermore, a comprehensive search was conducted on many databases until August 2023 to identify English-language scholarly articles utilizing MeSH terms and textual content pertaining to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, gene expression, obesity, and omega-3. The protocol has been registered on PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42022298395. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on a total of nine primary research articles. All research collected and presented quantitative data.

Results and Discussion

The findings of our study indicate that the incorporation of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid may have potential advantages and efficacy in addressing noncommunicable diseases, including obesity. This can be attributed to their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to regulate genes associated with obesity, such as PPARγ and those within the ALOX family.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022298395, CRD42022298395.

Diabetes mellitus promotes susceptibility to periodontitis-novel insight into the molecular mechanisms

Diabetes mellitus is a main risk factor for periodontitis, but until now, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Diabetes can increase the pathogenicity of the periodontal microbiota and the inflammatory/host immune response of the periodontium. Hyperglycemia induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and enhances oxidative stress (OS), exacerbating periodontal tissue destruction. Furthermore, the alveolar bone resorption damage and the epigenetic changes in periodontal tissue induced by diabetes may also contribute to periodontitis. We will review the latest clinical data on the evidence of diabetes promoting the susceptibility of periodontitis from epidemiological, molecular mechanistic, and potential therapeutic targets and discuss the possible molecular mechanistic targets, focusing in particular on novel data on inflammatory/host immune response and OS. Understanding the intertwined pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and periodontitis can explain the cross-interference between endocrine metabolic and inflammatory diseases better, provide a theoretical basis for new systemic holistic treatment, and promote interprofessional collaboration between endocrine physicians and dentists.

Oleic acid as potential immunostimulant in metabolism pathways of hybrid grouper fingerlings (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus) infected with Vibrio vulnificus

Grouper culture has been expanding in Malaysia due to the huge demand locally and globally. However, due to infectious diseases such as vibriosis, the fish mortality rate increased, which has affected the production of grouper. Therefore, this study focuses on the metabolic profiling of surviving infected grouper fed with different formulations of fatty acid diets that acted as immunostimulants for the fish to achieve desirable growth and health performance. After a six-week feeding trial and one-week post-bacterial challenge, the surviving infected grouper was sampled for GC-MS analysis. For metabolite extraction, a methanol/chloroform/water (2:2:1.8) extraction method was applied to the immune organs (spleen and liver) of surviving infected grouper. The distribution patterns of metabolites between experimental groups were then analyzed using a metabolomics platform. A total of 50 and 81 metabolites were putatively identified from the spleen and liver samples, respectively. Our further analysis identified glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism had the most impacted pathways, respectively, in spleen and liver samples from surviving infected grouper. The metabolites that were highly abundant in the spleen found in these pathways were glycine (20.9%), l-threonine (1.0%) and l-serine (0.8%). Meanwhile, in the liver l-glutamine (1.8%) and aspartic acid (0.6%) were found to be highly abundant. Interestingly, among the fish diet groups, grouper fed with oleic acid diet produced more metabolites with a higher percent area compared to the control diets. The results obtained from this study elucidate the use of oleic acid as an immunostimulant in fish feed formulation affects more various immune-related metabolites than other formulated feed diets for vibriosis infected grouper.

Biofortification of cow milk through dietary supplementation with sunflower oil: fatty acid profile, atherogenicity, and thrombogenic index

The present study aimed to assess the effects of replacing the starchy ingredients of concentrate by increasing the levels of sunflower oil on the production, composition, fatty acid profile, and evaluate the atherogenicity and thrombogenic index of Jersey cow's milk. Eight Jersey cows were arranged in a double Latin square and distributed in treatments consisting of supplementation with increasing levels of sunflower oil replacing the corn grain and wheat bran of concentrate, including the following: T0 (control diet), without sunflower oil and with 38 g ether extract (EE)/kg dry matter (DM); T1 = 65 g EE/kg DM; T2 = 86 g EE/kg DM; and T3 = 110 g EE/kg DM. The daily milk production was measured, and the corrected milk production was calculated. Milk samples were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy to determine fat, protein, lactose, and total solids, whereas the lipid profile was assessed by gas chromatography. Milk production, energy-corrected milk production, fat content, daily fat production, lactose, and total solids were not affected by the treatments. Protein, lactose, and total solids concentrations decreased. Short-, medium-, and odd-chain fatty acids decreased with an increase in sunflower oil levels. Conversely, linear increases in long-chain, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations were observed. There were significant increases in stearic and elaidic acids and conjugated linoleic acid isomers, especially in vaccenic and rumenic acids. There was a positive effect on the milk atherogenicity, thrombogenicity, and nutraceutical indices. Dietary supplementation with sunflower oil changes the milk FA profile, decreases the atherogenicity and the thrombogenicity indices, and improve the nutraceutical index up to the addition of 86 g EE/kg DM de sunflower oil in the diets of Jersey cows.

Lipid metabolism in tumor immunology and immunotherapy

Lipids are a diverse class of biomolecules that have been implicated in cancer pathophysiology and in an array of immune responses, making them potential targets for improving immune responsiveness. Lipid and lipid oxidation also can affect tumor progression and response to treatment. Although their importance in cellular functions and their potential as cancer biomarkers have been explored, lipids have yet to be extensively investigated as a possible form of cancer therapy. This review explores the role of lipids in cancer pathophysiology and describes how further understanding of these macromolecules could prompt novel treatments for cancer.

Omega-6: Its Pharmacology, Effect on the Broiler Production, and Health

Lipids and oils are the primary sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFA and PUFA), which are necessary for human and animal health. Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential nutrients for broilers. Omega-6 members, such as linolenic acid, are essential for broilers and must be obtained through feed. Vegetable oils are the primary source of omega-6 added to broiler feeds. Unsaturated fatty acids are better digested and absorbed than saturated fatty acids and generate more energy at a lower cost, boosting productivity. Feeding supplements with omega-6 can increase the fatty acid content in meat and increase weight, carcass, viscera, and FCR. The quality of meat taste and antioxidant content was also improved after giving omega-6 and influencing mineral metabolism. Broiler reproductive performance is also enhanced by reducing late embryonic mortality, hence enhancing fertility, hatchability, sperm quality, and sperm quantity. Meanwhile, for broiler health, omega-6 can lower cholesterol levels, triglycerides, very low-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein. It also supports support for T-helper cell (TH)-2-like IgG titers, increasing prostaglandins, eicosanoids, and antioxidants. In addition, it also supports anti-inflammation. Other researchers have extensively researched and reviewed studies on the effects of omega-6 on poultry. Meanwhile, in this review, we provide new findings to complement previous studies. However, further studies regarding the effects of omega-6 on other poultry are needed to determine the performance of omega-6 more broadly.

Immunomodulatory effects of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) on porcine monocytes (CD14 +) immune response in vitro

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) found mostly in fish oil. They have been commonly used as dietary integrators in human and animal nutrition, modulating the immune system, mostly by exerting anti-inflammatory activities as demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro studies. The precise mechanisms of action at the background of EPA and DHA immunomodulatory activity are still not fully elucidated. Moreover, no information on their effects on porcine monocytes immune response is available yet. To cover this gap, the study aimed to evaluate DHA and EPA's in vitro impact on porcine monocytes (CD14 +) defensive functions. Briefly, monocytes were isolated from the blood of twenty-six healthy pigs, using a magnetic-activated cell sorting technique (MACS). Monocytes were first treated with increasing concentrations of DHA and EPA (25, 50, 100 and 200 µM) and apoptosis and viability were measured to assess potential cytotoxic effects. Once determined EPA and DHA subtoxic working concentrations (25, 50 and 100 µM), their effects on chemotaxis, phagocytosis and total, intracellular and extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were evaluated. DHA and EPA only decreased porcine monocytes viability at the highest concentration (200 µM), but their apoptosis was unaffected. DHA (100 µM) decreased the cells' chemotaxis, while EPA (25 µM) increased their intracellular ROS production after 60 min under non-inflammatory or resting conditions and at 90 min under pro-inflammatory conditions (PMA challenge). EPA (50 µM) decreased monocytes' intracellular ROS levels only under resting conditions at 30 min. No effects were observed on porcine monocytes phagocytic capacity. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that DHA and EPA can exert differential in vitro immunomodulatory effects in pigs, by dampening monocytes chemotaxis and potentiating their oxidative burst, respectively. Thus, our results suggest these n-3 PUFA might exert both anti-inflammatory and/or immune-enhancing effects in pigs.

SARS-CoV-2 vaccines: What we know, what we can do to improve them and what we could learn from other well-known viruses

In recent weeks, the rate of SARS-CoV-2 infections has been progressively increasing all over the globe, even in countries where vaccination programs have been strongly implemented. In these regions in 2021, a reduction in the number of hospitalizations and deaths compared to 2020 was observed. This decrease is certainly associated with the introduction of vaccination measures. The process of the development of effective vaccines represents an important challenge. Overall, the breakthrough infections occurring in vaccinated subjects are in most cases less severe than those observed in unvaccinated individuals. This review examines the factors affecting the immunogenicity of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and the possible role of nutrients in modulating the response of distinct immune cells to the vaccination.

Cellular and humoral immune response between snail hosts and their parasites

In invertebrates, the innate immune system protects against a wide range of microbiological infections. Several immunological processes are involved in the interactive immune response between snails and their parasites, including phagocytosis, nitric oxide synthesis, phenol oxidase activity, lysozymes, and lectin formation. The immunological responses connected to the interaction between snails and parasites are discussed in detail in the current research. Understanding the nature of these interactive reactions will enable scientists to explore approaches to eliminate and cure parasitic infections.

Comparison of Different Dietary Fatty Acids Supplement on the Immune Response of Hybrid Grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus) Challenged with Vibrio vulnificus

Aquaculture has been expanding in Malaysia due to the increased demand for fish products. In addition, aquaculture faces challenges in maintaining feed suitability in support of the global growth of fish production. Therefore, improvements in diet formulation are necessary to achieve the optimal requirements and attain a desirable growth efficiency and health performance in fish. Seven weeks of study were conducted to compare the equal amounts of different fatty acids (2%) (oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, and behenic acid) on the survival, the growth, and the immune response of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus) against V. vulnificus. After six weeks of the feeding trial, fish were challenged with V. vulnificus for 30 min before continuing on the same feeding regime for the next seven days (post-bacterial challenge). Fish supplemented with dietary oleic acid showed significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced immune responses, i.e., lysozyme, respiratory burst, and phagocytic activities compared to the control diet group for both pre-and post-bacterial challenges. Following the Vibrio challenge, no significant effects of supplemented fatty acid diets on survival rate were observed, although dietary oleic acid demonstrated the highest 63.3% survival rate compared to only 43.3% of the control diet group. In addition, there were no significant effects (p > 0.05) on specific growth rate (SGR), white blood cell (WBC), and red blood cell (RBC) counts among all experimental diets. The results from this study suggest that among the tested dietary fatty acids, the oleic acid diet showed promising results in the form of elevated immune responses and increased disease resistance of the hybrid grouper fingerlings challenged with V. vulnificus.

Host Response Modulation Therapy in the Diabetes Mellitus—Periodontitis Conjuncture: A Narrative Review

The inflammatory response of the host in periodontitis is the phenomenon that underlies the onset and evolution of periodontal destructive phenomena. A number of systemic factors, such as diabetes mellitus (DM), can negatively affect the patient with periodontitis, just as the periodontal disease can aggravate the status of the DM patient. Host response modulation therapy involves the use of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant products aimed at resolving inflammation, stopping destructive processes, and promoting periodontal healing, all important aspects in patients with high tissue loss rates, such as diabetic patients. This paper reviews the data available in the literature on the relationship between DM and periodontitis, the main substances modulating the inflammatory response (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, sub-antimicrobial doses of doxycycline, or omega-3 fatty acids and their products, specialized pro-resolving mediators), as well as their application in diabetic patients.

Effect of Diet Enriched With Hemp Seeds on Goat Milk Fatty Acids, Transcriptome, and miRNAs

In dairy ruminants, a diet supplemented with feed rich in unsaturated fatty acids can be an effective medium to increase the health-promoting properties of milk, although their effect on the pathways/genes involved in these processes has not been properly and completely defined to date. To improve our knowledge of the cell’s activity in specific conditions, next-generation RNA-sequencing technology was used to allow whole transcriptome characterization under given conditions. In addition to this, microRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been known as post-transcriptional regulators in fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism by targeting lipid metabolism genes. In this study, to analyze the transcriptome and miRNAs in goat milk after a supplemental diet enriched with linoleic acid (hemp seeds), next-generation RNA-sequencing was used in order to point out the general biological mechanisms underlying the effects related to milk fat metabolism. Ten pluriparous Alpine goats were fed with the same pretreatment diet for 40 days; then, they were arranged to two dietary treatments consisting of control (C) and hemp seed (H)-supplemented diets. Milk samples were collected at 40 (time point = T0) and 140 days of lactation (time point = T1). Milk fatty acid (FA) profiles revealed a significant effect of hemp seeds that determined a strong increment in the preformed FA, causing a reduction in the concentration of de-novo FA. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated n−3 FAs were increased by hemp treatment, determining a reduction in the n−6/n−3 ratio. After removing milk fats and proteins, RNA was extracted from the milk cells and transcriptomic analysis was conducted using Illumina RNA-sequencing. A total of 3,835 genes were highly differentially expressed (p-value &lt; 0.05, fold change &gt; 1.5, and FDR &lt; 0.05) in the H group. Functional analyses evidenced changes in metabolism, immune, and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, modifications in feeding strategies affected also key transcription factors regulating the expression of several genes involved in milk fat metabolism, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Moreover, 38 (15 known and 23 novel) differentially expressed miRNAs were uncovered in the H group and their potential functions were also predicted. This study gives the possibility to improve our knowledge of the molecular changes occurring after a hemp seed supplementation in the goat diet and increase our understanding of the relationship between nutrient variation and phenotypic effects.

Effects From Dietary Addition of Sargassum sp., Spirulina sp., or Gracilaria sp. Powder on Immune Status in Broiler Chickens

Algae are innovative and significant nutrient sources with various health benefits when used as additives in animal feed. The study aims to examine the effect of different inclusions of three algae species, Sargassum sp., Spirulina sp., and Gracilaria sp. on the immune response of broiler chickens, as measured by the cellular immune response, humoral immune response, intestinal microbial counts, hindgut acidosis, and hematological measures. Here is a list of the seven experimental treatments (TRT). TRT 1 was the control group without algae; TRT 2 was supplemented with Sargassum sp. at 1% of the diet; TRT 3 with Sargassum sp. at 2% of the diet; TRT 4 with Spirulina sp. at 5% of the diet; TRT 5 with Spirulina sp. at 7.5% of the diet; TRT 6 with Gracilaria sp. at 0.5% of the diet; and TRT 7 Gracilaria sp. at 1% of the diet. Each treatment involved five replicates with 17 broiler chickens each, and the analyses were triplicated. The results showed that including algae in the feed ration of broiler chickens induces a higher cellular response than the control group, represented by T-cell response in the wattle area (P = 0.037). Sargassum sp. at 1 and 2% enhanced IgA antibody titers significantly and Gracilaria sp. at 5% enhanced IgY antibody titers, P = 0.045 and P = 0.030, respectively. All algal inclusions inhibited the growth of Salmonella sp. and improved LAB counts in the intestine of broilers, excepting the Gracilaria sp. at 0.5%, where LAB counts were similar to the control group. The E. coli counts decreased numerically but not significantly. Blood lymphocytes were enhanced while white blood cells (WBC) and heterophils were decreased as a results of algal inclusions. In conclusion, supplementing broiler chickens with algae could enhance their cellular and humoral immune status and promote healthy microflora in their guts.

An insight to the therapeutic potential of algae-derived sulfated polysaccharides and polyunsaturated fatty acids: Focusing on the COVID-19

Covid-19 pandemic severely affected human health worldwide. The rapidly increasing COVID-19 cases and successive mutations of the virus have made it a major challenge for scientists to find the best and efficient drug/vaccine/strategy to counteract the virus pathogenesis. As a result of research in scientific databases, regulating the immune system and its responses with nutrients and nutritional interventions is the most critical solution to prevent and combat this infection. Also, modulating other organs such as the intestine with these compounds can lead to the vaccines' effectiveness. Marine resources, mainly algae, are rich sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds with known immunomodulatory properties and the gut microbiome regulations. According to the purpose of the review, algae-derived bioactive compounds with immunomodulatory activities, sulfated polysaccharides, and polyunsaturated fatty acids have a good effect on the immune system. In addition, they have probiotic/prebiotic properties in the intestine and modulate the gut microbiomes; therefore, they can increase the effectiveness of vaccines produced. Thus, they with respectable safety, immune regulation, and modulation of microbiota have potential therapeutic against infections, especially COVID-19. They can also be employed as promising candidates for the prevention and treatment of viral infections, such as COVID-19.

Dietary Supplementation of Fructooligosaccharides Enhanced Antioxidant Activity and Cellular Immune Response in Broiler Chickens

This study investigated the impact of various concentrations of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) prebiotic on the production performance, antioxidant status, and immune response of broiler chicken. The FOS was used at 0, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7%. The cycle included 340 broilers distributed into 4 batteries, with 85 broiler chickens in each battery. There were 5 replicates with 17 broiler chickens each, and the analyses were triplicated. The studied parameters were production performance, antioxidant status, hematological measurements, cellular and humoral immune response, intestinal acidosis, intestinal microbial counts, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) level in the hindgut. Results showed that broiler chickens fed 0.7% of FOS had significantly higher body weight gain than the control group and the groups fed 0.3% and 0.5% of FOS. Supplementing broiler feed with FOS at all levels increased the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduced the malondialdehyde of the sera (P = 0.015 and 0.025, respectively). Liver catalase enzyme in the broiler chickens fed 0.5 and 0.7% of FOS was higher than that of the control group and the group fed 0.3% of FOS (P = 0.001). However, the liver MDA of the control group was higher than that of all the other groups (P = 0.031). The total WBC and heterophils % were the highest after supplementing broilers with 0.7% FOS (P = 0.004 and 0.003, respectively) at 3 wks of age. Conversely, lymphocytes and monocytes were the lowest for the 0.7% FOS group (P = 0.030 and 0.020, respectively). Dietary 0.05 and 0.7% of FOS induced the highest cellular response compared to the other treatments (P = 0.020). Thymus, bursa of Fabricious, and spleen weights were enhanced after FOS supplementation, which indicates a higher specific cellular response. To conclude, FOS prebiotic at all levels can be utilized safely to enhance the antioxidant activity and the cellular immune response of broiler chickens. Using 0.7% of FOS resulted in higher body weight of broilers. Accordingly, this amount of FOS is sufficient to reach the required results.

Effect of Ginger Powder on Production Performance, Antioxidant Status, Hematological Parameters, Digestibility, and Plasma Cholesterol Content in Broiler Chickens

The effect of dietary ginger powder on the production performance, digestibility, hematological parameters, antioxidant status, dietary oxidation stability, and plasma cholesterol content of broiler chickens was investigated. Ginger powder was included in the diet at 0, 5, 10, or 15 g/kg. Total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde in sera samples, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde in liver samples, and the peroxide value and acid value of the stored diets were evaluated. The results showed that ginger inclusion significantly improved antioxidation indices in broiler sera and liver. Total body weight gain in ginger-supplemented birds was higher than that of control birds (p < 0.048). Supplementing the broiler chickens with ginger powder reduced total feed consumption (p < 0.031). White blood cell counts and the percentage of heterophils in the blood were increased in birds that received ginger supplementation (p < 0.001). The inclusion of ginger in the diet improved dry matter digestibility, crude protein utilization, crude fiber utilization, and ether extract utilization. In addition, blood cholesterol, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein levels were decreased (p < 0.001), and high-density lipoprotein and levels were increased, following the inclusion of ginger in the diet (p < 0.001).

Improving Rabbit Doe Metabolism and Whole Reproductive Cycle Outcomes via Fatty Acid-Rich Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Supplementation in Free and Nano-Encapsulated Forms

Simple Summary

Under intensive rabbit production systems, due to the increased energy requirements of reproductive events, specifically pregnancy and lactation, rabbit does may confront several metabolic disorders as a result of energy imbalance. Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (ME) is one of the phytogenic extracts that has an impressive range of phytochemicals, specifically fatty acids (FAs). These phytochemicals may be biologically effective to support metabolism and reproductive functions of rabbit does during different reproductive cycle events. However, the high FAs content of ME makes them highly susceptible to lipid oxidation, diminishing their nutritional value and biological effects. In this study, we aimed to test the effects of FAs of ME either in a free-from or in a nano-encapsulated form on metabolism, immunity, milk production, milk composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during different physiological status (premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation). The results showed that ME improved health, metabolism, immune functions, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does. These effects remained obvious even when a lower dose of ME was used in a nano-encapsulated form.

Abstract

The effects of free and nano-encapsulated ME supplementations on the metabolism, immunity, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation were investigated. Multiparous rabbit does (n = 26 per group) received 50 mg of free ME (FME) daily, 25 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (HNME), or 10 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (LNME) per kilogram of body weight or were not supplemented (C) during a whole reproductive cycle. The ME contained 30 fatty acids with 54.27% total unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs). The fatty acid encapsulation efficiency of alginate nanoparticles was 70.46%. Compared with the C group, rabbits in all ME treatments had significantly increased body weight, feed intake, and glucose concentration and significantly decreased non-esterified free fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Rabbits supplemented with ME also had significantly increased white blood cell counts, phagocytic activity, lysozyme activity, and immunoglobulin G and decreased interleukin-1β concentrations. Moreover, ME supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of colostrum immunoglobulins, milk yield and energy content, and milk USFAs (omega-3 and 6). Rabbit does in the ME treatments had significantly higher conception and parturition rates and better litter characteristics than the C rabbit does. These results demonstrate the positive role of ME fatty acids on the health status and productive and reproductive performance of rabbit does at different physiological stages. Compared with the FME treatment, these parameters were further improved in rabbits that received nano-encapsulated ME at lower doses, illustrating how nano-encapsulation technology improves the bioavailability of ME.

The relationship between the structure and functionality of essential PUFA delivery systems based on sodium caseinate with phosphatidylcholine liposomes without and with a plant antioxidant: an in vitro and in vivo study

The aim of this work was to establish the main relationship between the structure and functionality of supramolecular complexes formed by sodium caseinate (SC) with phosphatidylcholine (PC) liposomes filled with fish oil (FO) to an equal mass ratio of n-3 to n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the absence and presence of one of the most effective plant antioxidants, namely the essential oil of clove buds (EOC). The functionality of the supramolecular complexes (SC-PC-FO and SC-PC-FO-EOC) was considered from the point of view of the possibility of their use as effective delivery systems for long-chain n-3 PUFAs (eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids from FO). The laser light scattering method was used in the static, dynamic and electrophoretic modes to characterize the structure and thermodynamic parameters of the supramolecular complexes in an aqueous medium. It was found that the SC-PC-FO and SC-PC-FO-EOC complex particles had the following similar properties: nanosize; a spherical shape; 100% solubility in an aqueous medium (pH 7.0, ionic strength = 0.001 M); a high encapsulating ability of SC (up to 70%) in relation to the studied liposomes; and a high protective ability relative to lipid autooxidation (up to 96% on the 20th day of storage at room temperature in light). In addition, a sequential transformation of both the structural and thermodynamic parameters has been observed for the complex particles under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal (GI) conditions in accordance with the INFOGEST protocol. A greater release of the encapsulated lipids from the enzymatically hydrolyzed complex particles was observed at the small intestine stage compared to their release at the gastric stage. These data were in good agreement with those on the assessment of the bioavailability of the target PUFAs in in vivo experiments based on the chronic intake of aqueous solutions of the complexes (both SC-PC-FO and SC-PC-FO-EOC) by experimental mice for 92 days. Liver lipid profiles of the mice, obtained by gas-liquid chromatography, showed the following: (i) an almost twofold increase in the DHA content as compared with that of the control; (ii) an almost threefold decrease in the mass ratio of arachidonic acid (AA) (C20:4 n-6) to DHA (C22:6 n-3) compared to that of the control due to both a significant decrease in the AA content and a simultaneous pronounced increase in the DHA content; and (iii) an almost twofold decrease in the mass ratio of the total amounts of n-6 to n-3 PUFAs compared to that of the control.

Immunity and Nutrition: The Right Balance in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an increasingly urgent medical problem that strongly impairs quality of life for patients. A global rise in incidence has been observed over the last few decades, with the highest incidence rates recorded in North America and Europe. Still, an increased incidence has been reported in the last ten years in newly industrialized countries in Asia, including China and India, both with more than one billion inhabitants. These data underline that IBD is an urgent global health problem. In addition, it is estimated that between 20% and 30% of IBD patients will develop colorectal cancer (CRC) within their lifetime and CRC mortality is approximately 50% amongst IBD patients. Although the exact etiology of IBD is still being defined, it is thought to be due to a complex interaction between many factors, including defects in the innate and adaptive immune system; microbial dysbiosis, i.e., abnormal levels of, or abnormal response to, the gastrointestinal microbiome; a genetic predisposition; and several environmental factors. At present, however, it is not fully understood which of these factors are the initiators of inflammation and which are compounders. The purpose of this review is to analyze the complex balance that exists between these elements to maintain intestinal homeostasis and prevent IBD or limit adverse effects on people’s health.

Insight on Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Endometrial Receptivity

Endometrial receptivity plays a crucial role in fertilization as well as pregnancy outcome in patients faced with fertility challenges. The optimization of endometrial receptivity may help with normal implantation of the embryo, and endometrial receptivity may be affected by numerous factors. Recently, the role of lipids in pregnancy has been increasingly recognized. Fatty acids and their metabolites may be involved in all stages of pregnancy and play a role in supporting cell proliferation and development, participating in cell signaling and regulating cell function. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, in particular, are essential fatty acids for the human body that can affect the receptivity of the endometrium through in a variety of methods, such as producing prostaglandins, estrogen and progesterone, among others. Additionally, polyunsaturated fatty acids are also involved in immunity and the regulation of endometrial decidualization. Fatty acids are essential for fetal placental growth and development. The interrelationship of polyunsaturated fatty acids with these substances and how they may affect endometrial receptivity will be reviewed in this article.

An Intricate Review on Nutritional and Analytical Profiling of Coconut, Flaxseed, Olive, and Sunflower Oil Blends

Vegetable oils (VOs), being our major dietary fat source, play a vital role in nourishment. Different VOs have highly contrasting fatty acid (FA) profiles and hence possess varying levels of health protectiveness. Consumption of a single VO cannot meet the recommended allowances of various FA either from saturated FA (SFA), monounsaturated FA (MUFA), polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), Ω-3 PUFAs, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Coconut oil (CO), flaxseed oil (FO), olive oil (OO), and sunflower oil (SFO) are among the top listed contrast VOs that are highly appreciated based on their rich contents of SFAs, Ω-3 PUFAs, MUFAs, and Ω-6 PUFA, respectively. Besides being protective against various disease biomarkers, these contrasting VOs are still inappropriate when consumed alone in 100% of daily fat recommendations. This review compiles the available data on blending of such contrasting VOs into single tailored blended oil (BO) with suitable FA composition to meet the recommended levels of SFA, MUFA, PUFA, MCTs, and Ω-3 to Ω-6 PUFA ratios which could ultimately serve as a cost-effective dietary intervention towards the health protectiveness and improvement of the whole population in general. The blending of any two or more VOs from CO, FO, OO, and SFO in the form of binary, ternary, or another type of blending was found to be very conclusive towards balancing FA composition; enhancing physiochemical and stability properties; and promising the therapeutic protectiveness of the resultant BOs.

Nutrigenomics of Dietary Lipids

Dietary lipids have a major role in nutrition, not only for their fuel value, but also as essential and bioactive nutrients. This narrative review aims to describe the current evidence on nutrigenomic effects of dietary lipids. Firstly, the different chemical and biological properties of fatty acids contained both in plant- and animal-based food are illustrated. A description of lipid bioavailability, bioaccessibility, and lipotoxicity is provided, together with an overview of the modulatory role of lipids as pro- or anti-inflammatory agents. Current findings concerning the metabolic impact of lipids on gene expression, epigenome, and gut microbiome in animal and human studies are summarized. Finally, the effect of the individual’s genetic make-up on lipid metabolism is described. The main goal is to provide an overview about the interaction between dietary lipids and the genome, by identifying and discussing recent scientific evidence, recognizing strengths and weaknesses, to address future investigations and fill the gaps in the current knowledge on metabolic impact of dietary fats on health.

The lipid paradox in neuroprogressive disorders: Causes and consequences

Chronic systemic inflammation is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in an environment of low low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and low total cholesterol and with the pathophysiology of neuroprogressive disorders. The causes and consequences of this lipid paradox are explored. Circulating activated neutrophils can release inflammatory molecules such as myeloperoxidase and the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha. Since activated neutrophils are associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease and with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, it seems reasonable to hypothesise that the inflammatory molecules released by them may act as mediators of the link between systemic inflammation and the development of atherosclerosis in neuroprogressive disorders. This hypothesis is tested by considering the association at a molecular level of systemic inflammation with increased LDL oxidation; increased small dense LDL levels; increased lipoprotein (a) concentration; secretory phospholipase A₂ activation; cytosolic phospholipase A₂ activation; increased platelet activation; decreased apolipoprotein A1 levels and function; decreased paroxonase-1 activity; hyperhomocysteinaemia; and metabolic endotoxaemia. These molecular mechanisms suggest potential therapeutic targets.

Dietary source of polyunsaturated fatty acids influences cell cytotoxicity in broiler chickens

The current study aims to investigate the effects of dietary source of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on immune response in broiler chickens, represented by cytotoxic cell activity. A total of 255 one-day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chickens were fed on fish oil (FO)-, flaxseed oil-enriched diets at 50 and 19 g/kg, respectively, in addition to the soybean-based control diet. At slaughter, samples of blood and spleen were harvested from 20 birds/treatment (n = 20). The immune tissues' fatty acid profile was analyzed by gas chromatography, and the cytotoxic cell activity was investigated. The results showed that supplementing broiler chickens with diets rich in n-3 PUFA had a substantial effect on the broiler immune tissues' fatty acid profile. Cytotoxic cell activity was significantly higher in splenocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from broilers fed flaxseed oil than those provided FO and the soybean control diet. These results suggest that flaxseed oil may be used to enrich chickens with n-3 PUFA and improve the immune status of chicken flocks to resist diseases.