MicroRNAs in Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders

Evaluation of circulating plasma miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 as potential biomarkers for predicting prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in Nepali adult population

Circulating plasma miRNAs have emerged as potential early predictors of glucometabolic disorders. However, their biomarker potential remains unvalidated in populations with diverse genetic backgrounds, races, and ethnicities. This study aims to validate the biomarker potential of plasma miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 for early detection of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Nepali populations that represent distinct genetic backgrounds, races, and ethnicities. A total of 46 adults, categorized into healthy controls (n = 25), prediabetes (n = 9), and T2DM (n = 12) groups, were enrolled. Baseline sociodemographic, anthropometric, and clinical characteristics were collected. Fold change in plasma expression of all four miRNAs was quantified using RT-qPCR against the RNU6B reference gene. Their biomarker potential was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Multivariate discriminant function and hierarchical cluster analyses were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the miRNA panel in reclassifying study participants who were initially categorized according to their glucose tolerance status. Plasma expression of all four miRNAs was significantly upregulated in T2DM patients compared to normoglycemic controls. Furthermore, the expression of only miR-29a and miR-375 was upregulated in T2DM patients than in prediabetic individuals. Notably, only miR-192 expression was significantly upregulated in prediabetic individuals than in the normoglycemic controls. The miRNA expression profiles had the potential of reclassifying the participants into three original groups with an accuracy of 69.6 %. ROC curve analysis identified miR-192 as the predictor for both prediabetes and T2DM, while miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 were predictive only for T2DM. The specific set of miRNA combinations significantly improved their predictive accuracy. This study validates the early predictive biomarker potential of plasma miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 also in the Nepali population and paves the way for future translational studies to validate their utility in clinical laboratories.

Dietary Pattern's Role in Hepatic Epigenetic and Dietary Recommendations for the Prevention of NAFLD

NAFLD has emerged as a significant public health concern, with its prevalence increasing globally. Emphasizing the complex relationship between dietary patterns and epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation or miRNA expression can exert a positive impact on preventing and managing metabolic disorders, including NAFLD, within the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This review aims to evaluate the influence of dietary patterns on hepatic epigenetic gene modulation and provide dietary recommendations for the prevention and management of NAFLD in the general population.

METHODS

Comprehensive screening and eligibility criteria identified eleven articles focusing on epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary modifications or nutrient supplementation.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Data were organized based on study types, categorizing them into evaluations of epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary pattern modifications or specific nutrient intake.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the importance of dietary interventions in managing and preventing NAFLD, emphasizing the potential of dietary patterns to influence hepatic epigenetic gene modulation. This study provides valuable insights and recommendations to mitigate the risk of developing NAFLD: (i) eat a primarily plant-based diet; (ii) increase consumption of high-fiber foods; (iii) consume more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids; (iv) limit processed foods, soft drinks, added sugars, and salt; and (v) avoid alcohol.

Unveiling the role of microRNAs in metabolic dysregulation of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) presents a significant health concern globally, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its metabolic intricacies for effective management. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators in GDM pathogenesis, influencing glucose metabolism, insulin signaling, and lipid homeostasis during pregnancy. Dysregulated miRNA expression, both upregulated and downregulated, contributes to GDM-associated metabolic abnormalities. Ethnic and temporal variations in miRNA expression underscore the multifaceted nature of GDM susceptibility. This review examines the dysregulation of miRNAs in GDM and their regulatory functions in metabolic disorders. We discuss the involvement of specific miRNAs in modulating key pathways implicated in GDM pathogenesis, such as glucose metabolism, insulin signaling, and lipid homeostasis. Furthermore, we explore the potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications of miRNAs in GDM management, highlighting the promise of miRNA-based interventions for mitigating the adverse consequences of GDM on maternal and offspring health.

High fat diet affects the hippocampal expression of miRNAs targeting brain plasticity-related genes

Metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes are associated with brain dysfunction and cognitive deficits, although the underpinning molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Epigenetic factors, such as non-coding RNAs, have been reported to mediate the molecular effects of nutrient-related signals. Here, we investigated the changes of miRNA expression profile in the hippocampus of a well-established experimental model of metabolic disease induced by high fat diet (HFD). In comparison to the control group fed with standard diet, we observed 69 miRNAs exhibiting increased expression and 63 showing decreased expression in the HFD mice's hippocampus. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified numerous potential targets of the dysregulated miRNAs, pinpointing a subset of genes regulating neuroplasticity that were targeted by multiple differentially modulated miRNAs. We also validated the expression of these synaptic and non-synaptic proteins, confirming the downregulation of Synaptotagmin 1 (SYT1), calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase I delta (CaMK1D), 2B subunit of N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor (GRIN2B), the DNA-binding protein Special AT-Rich Sequence-Binding Protein 2 (SATB2), and RNA-binding proteins Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element-binding protein 1 (CPEB1) and Neuro-oncological ventral antigen 1 (NOVA1) in the hippocampus of HFD mice. In summary, our study offers a snapshot of the HFD-related miRNA landscape potentially involved in the alterations of brain functions associated with metabolic disorders. By shedding light on the specific miRNA-mRNA interactions, our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of HFD on the synaptic function.

Therapeutic prospects of microRNAs derived from mesenchymal stem cell extracellular vesicles in rheumatoid arthritis: a comprehensive overview

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammatory joint damage. Recent studies have focused on the significance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of RA. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a potential therapeutic option for RA based on their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. MSCs release extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing miRNAs that can modulate immune and inflammatory responses. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current evidence on the existence of various MSCs-derived miRNAs involved in the pathophysiology, characterization, and treatment of RA. An overview of the miRNA profiles in MSC-EVs is provided, along with an examination of their impact on various cell types implicated in RA pathogenesis, including synovial fibroblasts, macrophages, and T cells. Furthermore, the therapeutic capability of MSC-EVs for miRNA-based therapies in RA is discussed. In total, this review can present an extensive view of the complex interaction between EVs and MSC-derived miRNAs in RA and thus suggest valuable strategies for developing new therapeutic approaches to target this debilitating disease.

The Interplay Between Cytokines and MicroRNAs to Regulate Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders represent significant public health challenges worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that cytokines and microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders by regulating various metabolic processes, including insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate interplay between cytokines and miRNAs in the context of metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. We discuss how dysregulation of cytokine-miRNA networks contributes to the development and progression of metabolic disorders and explore the therapeutic potential of targeting these interactions for disease management.

Aging alone or combined with obesity increases white adipose tissue inflammatory status in male mice

White adipose tissue (WAT) has been recognized as a fundamental and crucial organ of interest in research focusing on inflammation during obesity or aging. WAT is also proposed as a significant component of cholecalciferol and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) storage, which participates in the decrease of 25(OH)D plasma levels reported during aging and obesity. In the present study, we evaluated WAT and plasma cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D content together with inflammatory status to highlight the putative relationship between vitamin D status and inflammatory process during aging alone or combined with obesity. Circulating cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D and the stored quantity of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT were quantified in young and old mice fed a control or obesogenic diet. The inflammation was assessed by measuring plasma inflammatory cytokines, mRNA, and microRNAs inflammatory-associated in WAT. The combination of aging and obesity decreased 25(OH)D plasma levels but did not modify circulating inflammatory markers. A cumulative effect of aging and obesity was observed in WAT, with rising mRNA inflammatory cytokines, notably Ccl5 and Tnf. Interestingly, aging and obesity-associated were also characterized by increased inflammatory microRNA expression. The inflammatory parameters in WAT were negatively correlated with the plasma 25(OH)D but positively correlated with the quantity of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT. These results support the cumulative effect of obesity and aging in aggravation of WAT inflammation and suggest that accumulation of cholecalciferol and 25(OH)D in WAT could constitute a mechanism to counteract WAT inflammation during aging and obesity.

Early changes of microRNAs in blood one month after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Changes in microRNAs (miRNAs) are relevant to bariatric surgery and its comorbidities. The characteristics of changes in miRNAs of the early postoperative period following both bariatric procedures, sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), as well as the factors that related to the effectiveness of early weight loss remain unclear.

METHODS

We recruited 18 patients who performed SG and 15 patients who performed RYGB. Their preoperative and 1-month postoperative clinical data and fasting serum samples were collected, and the latter were analyzed by RNA-sequencing. Differential expression analysis of miRNAs was performed by the R-tool. Functional classification annotation and pathway enrichment analysis of targeted genes were analyzed by KOBAS software. The change profiles of miRNAs for both surgeries and their correlation with clinical characteristics and weight loss effectiveness were further analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 85 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified before and after SG, while a total of 76 were found before and after RYGB. The target genes of these miRNAs were similar in the Gene Ontology enrichment analysis in SG and RYGB, and the enrichment analysis in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes was mainly related to metabolic pathways. Hsa-miR-493-5p, hsa-miR-184, and hsa-miR-3199 exhibited similar changes in SG and RYGB, and the former two were correlated with clinical characteristics. Hsa-miR-6729-5p, hsa-miR-4659b-5p, and hsa-miR-2277-5p were correlated with the weight loss effectiveness of SG, while hsa-miR-4662a-5p was correlated with the weight loss effectiveness of RYGB.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term metabolic improvement and weight loss occurring after SG and RYGB surgery might be related to changes in miRNAs, which act on multiple biological pathways by regulating genes. In addition, some clinical characteristics and miRNAs were related to the effectiveness of early weight loss after SG and RYGB surgery.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR2200058333.

Role of micro-RNAs associated with adipose-derived extracellular vesicles in metabolic disorders

Micro-RNAs have emerged as important actors in the onset of metabolic disorders including obesity or type 2 diabetes. Particularly, several micro-RNAs are known to be key modulators of lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, or feeding behavior. Interestingly, the role of extracellular vesicles containing micro-RNAs, especially adipose-derived extracellular vesicles, are well-documented endocrine signals and disease biomarkers. However, the role of adipose-derived extracellular vesicles on the different tissues is different and highly related to the micro-RNA content. This review provides recent data about the potential involvement of adipose-derived extracellular vesicle-containing micro-RNAs in metabolic diseases.

The Gut Microbial Regulation of Epigenetic Modification from a Metabolic Perspective

Obesity is a global health challenge that has received increasing attention in contemporary research. The gut microbiota has been implicated in the development of obesity, primarily through its involvement in regulating various host metabolic processes. Recent research suggests that epigenetic modifications may serve as crucial pathways through which the gut microbiota and its metabolites contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity and other metabolic disorders. Hence, understanding the interplay between gut microbiota and epigenetic mechanisms is crucial for elucidating the impact of obesity on the host. This review primarily focuses on the understanding of the relationship between the gut microbiota and its metabolites with epigenetic mechanisms in several obesity-related pathogenic mechanisms, including energy dysregulation, metabolic inflammation, and maternal inheritance. These findings could serve as novel therapeutic targets for probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation tools in treating metabolic disruptions. It may also aid in developing therapeutic strategies that modulate the gut microbiota, thereby regulating the metabolic characteristics of obesity.

ALKBH5 regulates chicken adipogenesis by mediating LCAT mRNA stability depending on m6A modification

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation in various biological processes, our research is the first to elucidate its specific impact on LCAT mRNA stability and adipogenesis in poultry.

RESULTS

The 6 100-day-old female chickens were categorized into high (n = 3) and low-fat chickens (n = 3) based on their abdominal fat ratios, and their abdominal fat tissues were processed for MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq. An integrated analysis of MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq omics data revealed 16 differentially expressed genes associated with to differential m6A modifications. Among them, ELOVL fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2), pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), fatty acid binding protein 9 (PMP2), fatty acid binding protein 1 (FABP1), lysosomal associated membrane protein 3 (LAMP3), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) and solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1) have ever been reported to be associated with adipogenesis. Interestingly, LCAT was down-regulated and expressed along with decreased levels of mRNA methylation methylation in the low-fat group. Mechanistically, the highly expressed ALKBH5 gene regulates LCAT RNA demethylation and affects LCAT mRNA stability. In addition, LCAT inhibits preadipocyte proliferation and promotes preadipocyte differentiation, and plays a key role in adipogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, ALKBH5 mediates RNA stability of LCAT through demethylation and affects chicken adipogenesis. This study provides a theoretical basis for further understanding of RNA methylation regulation in chicken adipogenesis.

The complex web of obesity: from genetics to precision medicine

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is a growing public health concern affecting both children and adults. Since it involves both genetic and environmental components, the management of obesity requires both, an understanding of the underlying genetics and changes in lifestyle. The knowledge of obesity genetics will enable the possibility of precision medicine in anti-obesity medications.

AREAS COVERED

Here, we explore health complications and the prevalence of obesity. We discuss disruptions in energy balance as a symptom of obesity, examining evolutionary theories, its multi-factorial origins, and heritability. Additionally, we discuss monogenic and polygenic obesity, the converging biological pathways, potential pharmacogenomics applications, and existing anti-obesity medications - specifically focussing on the leptin-melanocortin and incretin pathways. Comparisons between childhood and adult obesity genetics are made, along with insights into structural variants, epigenetic changes, and environmental influences on epigenetic signatures.

EXPERT OPINION

With recent advancements in anti-obesity drugs, genetic studies pinpoint new targets and allow for repurposing existing drugs. This creates opportunities for genotype-informed treatment options. Also, lifestyle interventions can help in the prevention and treatment of obesity by altering the epigenetic signatures. The comparison of genetic architecture in adults and children revealed a significant overlap. However, more robust studies with diverse ethnic representation is required in childhood obesity.

miRNA expression in PCOS: unveiling a paradigm shift toward biomarker discovery

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that affects a substantial percentage of women, estimated at around 9-21%. This condition can lead to anovulatory infertility in women of childbearing age and is often accompanied by various metabolic disturbances, including hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, obesity, type-2 diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels. The development of PCOS is influenced by a combination of epigenetic alterations, genetic mutations, and changes in the expression of non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs). MicroRNAs, commonly referred to as non-coding RNAs, are approximately 22 nucleotides in length and primarily function in post-transcriptional gene regulation, facilitating mRNA degradation and repressing translation. Their dynamic expression in different cells and tissues contributes to the regulation of various biological and cellular pathways. As a result, they have become pivotal biomarkers for various diseases, including PCOS, demonstrating intricate associations with diverse health conditions. The aberrant expression of miRNAs has been detected in the serum of women with PCOS, with overexpression and dysregulation of these miRNAs playing a central role in the atypical expression of endocrine hormones linked to PCOS. This review takes a comprehensive approach to explore the upregulation and downregulation of various miRNAs present in ovarian follicular cells, granulosa cells, and theca cells of women diagnosed with PCOS. Furthermore, it discusses the potential for a theragnostic approach using miRNAs to better understand and manage PCOS.

miRNAs as Interconnectors between Obesity and Cancer

Obesity and cancer are a concern of global interest. It is proven that obesity may trigger the development or progression of some types of cancer; however, the connection by non-coding RNAs has not been totally explored. In the present review, we discuss miRNAs and lncRNAs dysregulation involved in obesity and some cancers, shedding light on how these conditions may exacerbate one another through the dysregulation of ncRNAs. lncRNAs have been reported as regulating microRNAs. An in silico investigation of lncRNA and miRNA interplay is presented. Our investigation revealed 44 upregulated and 49 downregulated lncRNAs in obesity and cancer, respectively. miR-375, miR-494-3p, miR-1908, and miR-196 were found interacting with 1, 4, 4 and 4 lncRNAs, respectively, which are involved in PPARγ cell signaling regulation. Additionally, miR-130 was found to be downregulated in obesity and reported as modulating 5 lncRNAs controlling PPARγ cell signaling. Similarly, miR-128-3p and miR-143 were found to be downregulated in obesity and cancer, interacting with 5 and 4 lncRNAs, respectively, associated with MAPK cell signaling modulation. The delicate balance between miRNA and lncRNA expression emerges as a critical determinant in the development of obesity-associated cancers, presenting these molecules as promising biomarkers. However, additional and deeper studies are needed to reach solid conclusions about obesity and cancer connection by ncRNAs.

Maternal dietary fatty acid composition and content prior to and during pregnancy and lactation influences serum profile, liver phenotype and hepatic miRNA expression in young male and female offspring

This study aimed to investigate whether modifying the pre-gestational lipid content could mitigate metabolic damage in offspring from dams exposed to a high-fat (HF) diet before conception and during pregnancy and lactation, with a focus on sex-specific outcomes. Specific effects of maternal normolipidic diets on offspring were also assessed. Female Wistar rats received control (C) or HF diets before conception. During pregnancy and lactation, females were distributed in five groups: C-C, HF-HF, HF-C, HF-saturated (HF-S) or HF-polyunsaturated n-3 group (HF-P). Saturated and PUFA n-3 diets were normolipidic. In 21-day-old offspring, corporal parameters, adiposity, serum metabolites, OGTT, liver phenotype, and miR-34a-5p hepatic expression were determined. Pre-gestational HF diet impaired glycemic response in females, independent of any change in body weight. Female and male offspring from dams continuously exposed to HF diet exhibited hyperglycemia, increased adiposity, and disrupted serum lipid profiles. Male offspring showed increased hepatic fat accumulation and miR-34a-5p expression. Shifting maternal dietary lipid content to normolipidic diets restored offspring's phenotype; however, decreased SIRT1, IRβ and IRS1 expression in offspring from dams exposed to HF diet before conception suggested early indicators of glucose metabolism damage. Our findings indicated a pronounced metabolic impact on males. In conclusion, glucose tolerance impairment in females before conception disturbed intrauterine environment, influencing in offspring's phenotype. Modifying maternal dietary lipid content mitigated effects of pre-gestational HF diet exposure on young offspring. Nevertheless, decreased hepatic levels of critical insulin signaling proteins indicated that independently of the maternal diet, pre-existing HF diet-induced glucose intolerance before conception may adversely program the offspring's phenotype.

Integrative network analysis of differentially methylated regions to study the impact of gestational weight gain on maternal metabolism and fetal-neonatal growth

Integrative network analysis (INA) is important for identifying gene modules or epigenetically regulated molecular pathways in diseases. This study evaluated the effect of excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) on INA of differentially methylated regions, maternal metabolism and offspring growth. Brazilian women from "The Araraquara Cohort Study" with adequate pre-pregnancy body mass index were divided into EGWG (n=30) versus adequate gestational weight gain (AGWG, n=45) groups. The methylome analysis was performed on maternal blood using the Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChip. Fetal-neonatal growth was assessed by ultrasound and anthropometry, respectively. Maternal lipid and glycemic profiles were investigated. Maternal triglycerides-TG (p=0.030) and total cholesterol (p=0.014); fetus occipito-frontal diameter (p=0.005); neonate head circumference-HC (p=0.016) and thoracic perimeter (p=0.020) were greater in the EGWG compared to the AGWG group. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that maternal DNA methylation was associated with maternal TG and fasting insulin, fetal abdominal circumference, and fetal and neonate HC. The DMRs studied were enriched in 142 biological processes, 21 molecular functions,and 17 cellular components with terms directed for the fatty acids metabolism. Three DMGMs were identified:COL3A1, ITGA4 and KLRK1. INA targeted chronic diseases and maternal metabolism contributing to an epigenetic understanding of the involvement of GWG in maternal metabolism and fetal-neonatal growth.

Obesity-associated epigenetic alterations and the obesity-breast cancer axis

Both breast cancer and obesity can regulate epigenetic changes or be regulated by epigenetic changes. Due to the well-established link between obesity and an increased risk of developing breast cancer, understanding how obesity-mediated epigenetic changes affect breast cancer pathogenesis is critical. Researchers have described how obesity and breast cancer modulate the epigenome individually and synergistically. In this review, the epigenetic alterations that occur in obesity, including DNA methylation, histone, and chromatin modification, accelerated epigenetic age, carcinogenesis, metastasis, and tumor microenvironment modulation, are discussed. Delineating the relationship between obesity and epigenetic regulation is vital to furthering our understanding of breast cancer pathogenesis.

Unraveling Adipose Tissue Dysfunction: Molecular Mechanisms, Novel Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Targets for Liver Fat Deposition

Adipose tissue (AT), once considered a mere fat storage organ, is now recognized as a dynamic and complex entity crucial for regulating human physiology, including metabolic processes, energy balance, and immune responses. It comprises mainly two types: white adipose tissue (WAT) for energy storage and brown adipose tissue (BAT) for thermogenesis, with beige adipocytes demonstrating the plasticity of these cells. WAT, beyond lipid storage, is involved in various metabolic activities, notably lipogenesis and lipolysis, critical for maintaining energy homeostasis. It also functions as an endocrine organ, secreting adipokines that influence metabolic, inflammatory, and immune processes. However, dysfunction in WAT, especially related to obesity, leads to metabolic disturbances, including the inability to properly store excess lipids, resulting in ectopic fat deposition in organs like the liver, contributing to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This narrative review delves into the multifaceted roles of WAT, its composition, metabolic functions, and the pathophysiology of WAT dysfunction. It also explores diagnostic approaches for adipose-related disorders, emphasizing the importance of accurately assessing AT distribution and understanding the complex relationships between fat compartments and metabolic health. Furthermore, it discusses various therapeutic strategies, including innovative therapeutics like adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs)-based treatments and gene therapy, highlighting the potential of precision medicine in targeting obesity and its associated complications.

T-2 Toxin-Mediated β-Arrestin-1 O-GlcNAcylation Exacerbates Glomerular Podocyte Injury via Regulating Histone Acetylation

T-2 toxin causes renal dysfunction with proteinuria and glomerular podocyte damage. This work explores the role of metabolic disorder/reprogramming-mediated epigenetic modification in the progression of T-2 toxin-stimulated podocyte injury. A metabolomics experiment is performed to assess metabolic responses to T-2 toxin infection in human podocytes. Roles of protein O-linked-N-acetylglucosaminylation (O-GlcNAcylation) in regulating T-2 toxin-stimulated podocyte injury in mouse and podocyte models are assessed. O-GlcNAc target proteins are recognized by mass spectrometry and co-immunoprecipitation experiments. Moreover, histone acetylation and autophagy levels are measured. T-2 toxin infection upregulates glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) expression and enhances hexosamine biosynthetic pathway in glomerular podocytes, resulting in a significant increase in β-arrestin-1 O-GlcNAcylation. Decreasing β-arrestin-1 or O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) effectively prevents T-2 toxin-induced renal dysfunction and podocyte injury. Mechanistically, O-GlcNAcylation of β-arrestin-1 stabilizes β-arrestin-1 to activate the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway as well as to inhibit autophagy during podocyte injury by promoting H4K16 acetylation. To sum up, OGT-mediated β-arrestin-1 O-GlcNAcylation is a vital regulator in the development of T-2 toxin-stimulated podocyte injury via activating the mTOR pathway to suppress autophagy. Targeting β-arrestin-1 or OGT can be a potential therapy for T-2 toxin infection-associated glomerular injury, especially podocyte injury.

Role of Nutraceuticals in Obesity Management: A Mechanism and Prospective Supported by Molecular Docking Studies

Obesity and its comorbidities represent a major health problem worldwide. Treatment by reducing food intake and physical activity interventions has limited success especially with elderly people with chronic diseases. Nutraceuticals are naturally originated and successfully used for their physiological and nutritional benefit in health care. They might be alternative means to help lose weight and reduce obesity-associated metabolic disorders with the improvement of health, delay the aging process, prevention of chronic diseases, increase of life expectancy, or support to the structure or function of the body. The current study enumerates the inherent role of nutraceuticals in the management of obesity and its related comorbidities. The study is supported with the molecular docking studies discussing the mechanism of action. An attempt to optimize the role of nutraceuticals is made in this article in addition to widen the scope of its use in this chronic worldwide disease.

Impact of Aging and a High-Fat Diet on Adipose-Tissue-Derived Extracellular Vesicle miRNA Profiles in Mice

BACKGROUND

Middle-aged adults have the highest obesity rates, leading to significant health complications in later years. Obesity triggers the release of altered molecules, including extracellular vesicles (EVs) from excess adipose tissue (AT), contributing to various health complications. In this study, we assessed the effects of age and a high-fat diet on AT-derived EV miRNA profiles to understand their potential roles in aging and obesity.

METHOD

C57BL/6 male mice were subjected to a normal chow diet (NCD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) for either 10-12 weeks (young mice, n = 10) or 50-61 weeks (middle-aged mice, n = 12). After evaluating metabolic characteristics, peri-gonadal white AT was isolated and cultured to obtain EVs. AT-derived EV miRNAs were profiled using a NanoString miRNA panel (n = 599).

RESULTS

Middle-aged mice exhibited obesity regardless of diet. Young mice fed an HFD showed similar metabolic traits to middle-aged mice. In the NCD group, 131 differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) emerged in middle-aged mice compared to young mice, including miR-21, miR-148a, and miR-29a, associated with cancer, neuro/psychological disorders, and reproductive diseases. In the HFD group, 55 DE-miRNAs were revealed in middle-aged mice compared to young mice. These miRNAs were associated with significantly suppressed IGF1R activity.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the potential significant impact of miRNAs of AT EVs on aging- and obesity-related diseases.

Low expression levels of miRNA-155 and miRNA-499a are associated with obesity in Type 2 diabetes

Background & aims: This study investigated a possible correlation between three circulating miRNAs, previously observed to be associated to diabetic polyneuropathy, and the obesity condition. Methods & results: The expression levels of miR-128a, miR-155 and miR499a were evaluated in 49 participants with Type 2 diabetes, divided into different groups based on the presence or absence of obesity and central obesity. The analyses revealed a significant decrease of miR-155 and miR-499a expression levels in obese subjects. In particular, the reduction appears to be even more significant in Type 2 diabetes subjects with central obesity. Conclusion: The results suggest that these miRNAs could be involved in obesity-driven pathogenetic mechanisms.

Message Transmission Between Adipocyte and Macrophage in Obesity

Obesity is characterized by the chronic low-grade activation of the innate immune system. In this respect, macrophage-elicited metabolic inflammation and adipocyte-macrophage interaction have primary importance in obesity. Large quantity of macrophages is accumulated by different mechanisms in obese adipose tissue. Hypertrophic adipocyte-derived chemotactic monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1)/C-C chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) pathway promotes more macrophage accumulation into the obese adipose tissue. However, obesity-induced changes in adipose tissue macrophage density are mainly dependent on increases in the triple-positive cluster of differentiation (CD)11b+ F4/80+ CD11c+ adipose tissue macrophage subpopulation. As epigenetic regulators, microRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the most important mediators of obesity. miRNAs are expressed by adipocytes as well as macrophages and regulate inflammation with the expression of target genes. A paracrine loop involving free fatty acids and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) between adipocytes and macrophages establishes a vicious cycle that aggravates inflammatory changes in the adipose tissue. Adipocyte-specific caspase-1 and production of interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) by macrophages; both adipocyte and macrophage induction by toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) through nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) activation; free fatty acid-induced and TLR-mediated activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)-related pro-inflammatory pathways in CD11c+ immune cells; are effective in mutual message transmission between adipocyte and macrophage and in the development of adipose tissue inflammation. Thus, the metabolic status of adipocytes and their released exosomes are important determinants of macrophage inflammatory output. However, old adipocytes are removed by macrophages through trogocytosis or sending an "eat me" signal. As a single miRNA can be able to regulate a variety of target genes and signaling pathways, reciprocal transfer of miRNAs between adipocytes and macrophages via miRNA-loaded exosomes reorganizes the different stages of obesity. Changes in the expression of circulating miRNAs because of obesity progression or anti-obesity treatment indicate that miRNAs could be used as potential biomarkers. Therefore, it is believed that targeting macrophage-associated miRNAs with anti-obesity miRNA-loaded nano-carriers may be successful in the attenuation of both obesity and adipose tissue inflammation in clinical practice. Moreover, miRNA-containing exosomes and transferable mitochondria between the adipocyte and macrophage are investigated as new therapeutic targets for obesity-related metabolic disorders.

Effect of tomato, tomato-derived products and lycopene on metabolic inflammation: from epidemiological data to molecular mechanisms

The goal of this narrative review is to summarise the current knowledge and limitations related to the anti-inflammatory effects of tomato, tomato-derived products and lycopene in the context of metabolic inflammation associated to cardiometabolic diseases. The potential of tomato and tomato-derived product supplementation is supported by animal and in vitro studies. In addition, intervention studies provide arguments in favour of a limitation of metabolic inflammation. This is also the case for observational studies depicting inverse association between plasma lycopene levels and inflammation. Nevertheless, current data of intervention studies are mixed concerning the anti-inflammatory effect of tomato and tomato-derived products and are not in favour of an anti-inflammatory effect of pure lycopene in humans. From epidemiological to mechanistic studies, this review aims to identify limitations of the current knowledge and gaps that remain to be filled to improve our comprehension in contrasted anti-inflammatory effects of tomato, tomato-derived products and pure lycopene.

Proposal of a bioinformatics approach to predict molecular mechanisms involved in inflammatory response: case of ATRA and 1,25(OH)2D in adipocytes

Several inflammatory markers such as cytokines, chemokines, and microRNAs (miRNAs) are well known to be induced during obesity and are strongly linked to their comorbidities. Among many others factors, the micronutrient status is suspected to reduce obesity-associated inflammation via blunting inflammatory signalling pathways. This is notably the case for active forms of vitamin A (all-trans retinoic acid ATRA) and vitamin D (1,25(OH)₂D) as previously shown. In the present study, we aimed to implement a new bioinformatics approach to unveil commonly regulated signalling pathways through a combination of gene and miRNA expression sets impacted by ATRA and 1,25(OH)₂D in adipocytes. In a first set of experiments, we focused only our attention on ATRA and demonstrated that it reduced LPS-mediated miRNA expression (miR-146a, miR-150, and miR-155) in mouse adipose tissue, in adipocyte cultures, and in adipocyte-derived vesicles. This result was confirmed in TNFα-induced miRNA in human adipocytes. Then, bioinformatic analysis highlighted that both ATRA and 1,25(OH)₂D-regulated genes and miRNA converge to the canonical 'nuclear factor Kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway.' Altogether, these results showed that ATRA has anti-inflammatory effects on miRNA expression. In addition, the proposed bioinformatic model converges to NF-κB signalling pathway that has been previously demonstrated to be regulated by ATRA and 1,25(OH)₂D, thus confirming the interest of such approach.

Vitamin D Modulates Lipid Composition of Adipocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Under Inflammatory Conditions

SCOPE

Adipocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (AdEVs) convey lipids that can play a role in the energy homeostasis. Vitamin D (VD) has been shown to limit the metabolic inflammation as it decreases inflammatory markers expression in adipose tissue (AT). However, VD effect on adipocytes-derived EVs has never been investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the AdEVs lipid composition by LC-MS/MS approach in 3T3-L1 cells treated with VD or/and pro-inflammatory factor (tumor necrosis factor α [TNFα]). Among all lipid species, four are highlighted (glycerolipids, phospholipids, lysophospholipids, and sphingolipids) with a differential content between small (sEVs) and large EVs (lEVs). This study also observes that VD alone modulates EV lipid species involved in membrane fluidity and in the budding of membrane. EVs treated with VD under inflammatory conditions have different lipid profiles than the control group, which is more pronounced in lEVs. Indeed, 25 lipid species are significantly modulated in lEVs, compared with only seven lipid species in sEVs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study concludes that VD, alone or under inflammatory conditions, is associated with specific lipidomic signature of sEVs and lEVs. These observations reinforce current knowledge on the anti-inflammatory effect of VD.

Genetics and epigenetics in the obesity phenotyping scenario

Obesity is a common complex trait that elevates the risk for various diseases, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A combination of environmental and genetic factors influences the pathogenesis of obesity. Advances in genomic technologies have driven the identification of multiple genetic loci associated with this disease, ranging from studying severe onset cases to investigating common multifactorial polygenic forms. Additionally, findings from epigenetic analyses of modifications to the genome that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence have emerged as key signatures in the development of obesity. Such modifications can mediate the effects of environmental factors, including diet and lifestyle, on gene expression and clinical presentation. This review outlines what is known about the genetic and epigenetic contributors to obesity susceptibility, along with the albeit limited therapeutic options currently available. Furthermore, we delineate the potential mechanisms of actions through which epigenetic changes can mediate environmental influences and the related opportunities they present for future interventions in the management of obesity.

Towards precision medicine in bariatric surgery prescription

Obesity is a complex, multifactorial and chronic disease. Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective treatment intervention for obesity and obesity-related diseases. However, weight loss after surgery can be highly heterogeneous and is not entirely predictable, particularly in the long-term after intervention. In this review, we present and discuss the available data on patient-related and procedure-related factors that were previously appointed as putative predictors of bariatric surgery outcomes. In addition, we present a critical appraisal of the available evidence on which factors could be taken into account when recommending and deciding which bariatric procedure to perform. Several patient-related features were identified as having a potential impact on weight loss after bariatric surgery, including age, gender, anthropometrics, obesity co-morbidities, eating behavior, genetic background, circulating biomarkers (microRNAs, metabolites and hormones), psychological and socioeconomic factors. However, none of these factors are sufficiently robust to be used as predictive factors. Overall, there is no doubt that before we long for precision medicine, there is the unmet need for a better understanding of the socio-biological drivers of weight gain, weight loss failure and weight-regain after bariatric interventions. Machine learning models targeting preoperative factors and effectiveness measurements of specific bariatric surgery interventions, would enable a more precise identification of the causal links between determinants of weight gain and weight loss. Artificial intelligence algorithms to be used in clinical practice to predict the response to bariatric surgery interventions could then be created, which would ultimately allow to move forward into precision medicine in bariatric surgery prescription.

Study protocol: Identification and validation of integrative biomarkers of physical activity level and health in children and adolescents (INTEGRActiv)

Background

Physical activity (PA) provides health benefits across the lifespan and improves many established cardiovascular risk factors that have a significant impact on overall mortality. However, discrepancies between self-reported and device-based measures of PA make it difficult to obtain consistent results regarding PA and its health effects. Moreover, PA may produce different health effects depending on the type, intensity, duration, and frequency of activities and individual factors such as age, sex, body weight, early life conditions/exposures, etc. Appropriate biomarkers relating the degree of PA level with its effects on health, especially in children and adolescents, are required and missing. The main objective of the INTEGRActiv study is to identify novel useful integrative biomarkers of PA and its effects on the body health in children and adolescents, who represent an important target population to address personalized interventions to improve future metabolic health.

Methods/design

The study is structured in two phases. First, biomarkers of PA and health will be identified at baseline in a core cohort of 180 volunteers, distributed into two age groups: prepubertal (n = 90), and postpubertal adolescents (n = 90). Each group will include three subgroups (n = 30) with subjects of normal weight, overweight, and obesity, respectively. Identification of new biomarkers will be achieved by combining physical measures (PA and cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, anthropometry) and molecular measures (cardiovascular risk factors, endocrine markers, cytokines and circulating miRNA in plasma, gene expression profile in blood cells, and metabolomics profiling in plasma). In the second phase, an educational intervention and its follow-up will be carried out in a subgroup of these subjects (60 volunteers), as a first validation step of the identified biomarkers.

Discussion

The INTEGRActiv study is expected to provide the definition of PA and health-related biomarkers (PA-health biomarkers) in childhood and adolescence. It will allow us to relate biomarkers to factors such as age, sex, body weight, sleep behavior, dietary factors, and pubertal status and to identify how these factors quantitatively affect the biomarkers' responses. Taken together, the INTEGRActiv study approach is expected to help monitor the efficacy of interventions aimed to improve the quality of life of children/adolescents through physical activity.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier NCT05907785.

Selected miRNA and Psoriasis-Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)-Overweight/Obesity Network-A Pilot Study

Psoriasis is nowadays recognized as a multifactorial systemic disease with complex and not fully understood pathogenesis. In psoriatic patients, the increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and frequent comorbidities like obesity are observed. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in miRNA (miR-22-3p, miR-133a-3p, miR-146a-5p, miR-369-3p, and Let-7b-5p) involved in CVD risk among psoriatic patients with overweight/obesity and with normal weight. The study comprised 28 male psoriatic patients and 16 male healthy controls. miRNA isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells was reverse-transcribed and RT-qPCR was performed. We have found decreased levels of miR-22, miR-133a, miR-146a, and miR-369 among the psoriatic patients. There was a statistically significant difference in miR-22 and miR-146a levels between psoriatic patients with overweight/obesity and with normal weight. There were positive correlations between miR-22 and miR-146a levels and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in psoriatic patients with normal weight and between the miR-133a level and PsA in the overweight/obese patients. The decreased levels of selected miRNA are consistent with the levels observed in CVD indicating their impact on the CVD risk in psoriatic patients. miR-22 and miR-146 may be recognized as one of the contributing factors in the obesity-CVD-psoriasis network.

Hypothalamic α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) is downregulated by TNFα-induced Let-7 overexpression driven by fatty acids

The α7nAChR is crucial to the anti-inflammatory reflex, and to the expression of neuropeptides that control food intake, but its expression can be decreased by environmental factors. We aimed to investigate whether microRNA modulation could be an underlying mechanism in the α7nAchR downregulation in mouse hypothalamus following a short-term exposure to an obesogenic diet. Bioinformatic analysis revealed Let-7 microRNAs as candidates to regulate Chrna7, which was confirmed by the luciferase assay. Mice exposed to an obesogenic diet for 3 days had increased Let-7a and decreased α7nAChR levels, accompanied by hypothalamic fatty acids and TNFα content. Hypothalamic neuronal cells exposed to fatty acids presented higher Let-7a and TNFα levels and lower Chrna7 expression, but when the cells were pre-treated with TLR4 inhibitor, Let-7a, TNFα, and Chrna7 were rescued to normal levels. Thus, the fatty acids overload trigger TNFα-induced Let-7 overexpression in hypothalamic neuronal cells, which negatively regulates α7nAChR, an event that can be related to hyperphagia and obesity predisposition in mice.

Novel Multi-Ingredient Supplement Facilitates Weight Loss and Improves Body Composition in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Despite the growing recognition of the obesity crisis, its rates continue to rise. The current first-line therapies, such as dietary changes, energy restriction, and physical activity, are typically met with poor adherence. Novel nutritional interventions can address the root causes of obesity, including mitochondrial dysfunction, and facilitate weight loss.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a multi-ingredient nutritional supplement designed to facilitate mitochondrial function and metabolic health outcomes over a 12 wk period.

METHODS

Fifty-five overweight and/or obese participants (age (mean ± SEM): 26 ± 1; body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2): 30.5 ± 0.6) completed this double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants were randomized to 12 wks of daily consumption of multi-ingredient supplement (MIS; n = 28; containing 50 mg forskolin, 500 mg green coffee bean extract, 500 mg green tea extract, 500 mg beet root extract, 400 mg α-lipoic acid, 200 IU vitamin E, and 200 mg CoQ10) or control placebo (PLA, n = 27; containing microcrystalline cellulose) matched in appearance. The co-primary outcomes were bodyweight and fat mass (kg) changes. The secondary outcomes included other body composition measures, plasma markers of obesity, fatty liver disease biomarkers, resting energy metabolism, blood pressure, physical performance, and quality of life. The post-intervention differences between MIS and PLA were examined via ANCOVA which was adjusted for the respective pre-intervention variables.

RESULTS

After adjustment for pre-intervention data, there was a significant difference in weight (p < 0.001) and fat mass (p < 0.001) post-intervention between the PLA and MIS treatment arms. Post-intervention weight and fat mass were significantly lower in MIS. Significant post-intervention differences corrected for baseline were found in markers of clinical biochemistry (AST, p = 0.017; ALT, p = 0.008), molecular metabolism (GDF15, p = 0.028), and extracellular vesicle-associated miRNA species miR-122 and miR-34a in MIS (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Following the 12 wks of MIS supplementation, weight and body composition significantly improved, concomitant with improvements in molecular markers of liver health and metabolism.

Exercise-regulated white adipocyte differentitation: An insight into its role and mechanism

White adipocytes play a key role in the regulation of fat mass amount and energy balance. An appropriate level of white adipocyte differentiation is important for maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Exercise, an important way to improve metabolic health, can regulate white adipocyte differentiation. In this review, the effect of exercise on the differentiation of white adipocytes is summarized. Exercise could regulate adipocyte differentiation in multiple ways, such as exerkines, metabolites, microRNAs, and so on. The potential mechanism underlying the role of exercise in adipocyte differentiation is also reviewed and discussed. In-depth investigation of the role and mechanism of exercise in white adipocyte differentiation would provide new insights into exercise-mediated improvement of metabolism and facilitate the application of exercise-based strategy against obesity.

Pleiotrophin and metabolic disorders: insights into its role in metabolism

Pleiotrophin (PTN) is a cytokine which has been for long studied at the level of the central nervous system, however few studies focus on its role in the peripheral organs. The main aim of this review is to summarize the state of the art of what is known up to date about pleiotrophin and its implications in the main metabolic organs. In summary, pleiotrophin promotes the proliferation of preadipocytes, pancreatic β cells, as well as cells during the mammary gland development. Moreover, this cytokine is important for the structural integrity of the liver and the neuromuscular junction in the skeletal muscle. From a metabolic point of view, pleiotrophin plays a key role in the maintenance of glucose and lipid as well as whole-body insulin homeostasis and favors oxidative metabolism in the skeletal muscle. All in all, this review proposes pleiotrophin as a druggable target to prevent from the development of insulin-resistance-related pathologies.

Expression Analysis of hsa-miR-181a-5p, hsa-miR-143-3p, hsa-miR-132-3p and hsa-miR-23a-3p as Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer-Relationship to the Body Mass Index

This work aims to investigate the expression levels of four preselected miRNAs previously linked to cancer and/or obesity, with the purpose of finding potential biomarkers in the clinical management of CRC developed by patients showing different BMI values. We analyzed samples from a total of 65 subjects: 43 affected by CRC and 22 without cancer. Serum and both subcutaneous and omental adipose tissues (SAT and OAT) were investigated, as well as tumor and non-tumor colorectal tissues in the case of the CRC patients. The relative expression (2^-∆∆Ct) levels of 4 miRNAs (hsa-miR-181a-5p, hsa-miR-143-3p, has-miR-132-3p and hsa-miR-23a-3p) were measured by RT-qPCR. Serum, SAT and OAT expression levels of these miRNAs showed significant differences between subjects with and without CRC, especially in the group of overweight/obese subjects. In CRC, serum levels of hsa-miR-143-3p clearly correlated with their levels in both SAT and OAT, independently of the BMI group. Moreover, hsa-miR-181a-5p could be considered as a biomarker in CRC patients with BMI ≥ 25 Kg/m² and emerges as a tumor location marker. We conclude that both adiposity and CRC induce changes in the expression of the miRNAs investigated, and hsa-miR-143-3p and hsa-miR-181a-5p expression analysis could be useful in the clinical management of CRC.

Vitamin D in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events

Both experimental and clinical findings linking vitamin D to cardiovascular (CV) risk have prompted consideration of its supplementation to improve overall health. Yet several meta-analyses do not provide support for the clinical effectiveness of this strategy. Meanwhile, the understanding of the roles of vitamin D in the pathophysiology of CV diseases has evolved. Specifically, recent work has revealed some non-classical pleiotropic effects of vitamin D, increasing the complexity of vitamin D signalling. Within particular microenvironments (e.g. dysfunctional adipose tissue and atherosclerotic plaque), vitamin D can act locally at cellular level through intracrine/autocrine/paracrine feedforward and feedback circuits. Within atherosclerotic tissues, 'local' vitamin D levels may influence relevant systemic consequences independently of its circulating pool. Moreover, vitamin D links closely to other signalling pathways of CV relevance including those driving cellular senescence, ageing, and age-related diseases-among them CV conditions. This review updates knowledge on vitamin D biology aiming to clarify the widening gap between experimental and clinical evidence. It highlights the potential reverse causation confounding correlation between vitamin D status and CV health, and the need to consider novel pathophysiological concepts in the design of future clinical trials that explore the effects of vitamin D on atherosclerosis and risk of CV events.

Metabolo-epigenetic interplay provides targeted nutritional interventions in chronic diseases and ageing

Epigenetic modifications are chemical modifications that affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences. In particular, epigenetic chemical modifications can occur on histone proteins -mainly acetylation, methylation-, and on DNA and RNA molecules -mainly methylation-. Additional mechanisms, such as RNA-mediated regulation of gene expression and determinants of the genomic architecture can also affect gene expression. Importantly, depending on the cellular context and environment, epigenetic processes can drive developmental programs as well as functional plasticity. However, misbalanced epigenetic regulation can result in disease, particularly in the context of metabolic diseases, cancer, and ageing. Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCD) and ageing share common features including altered metabolism, systemic meta-inflammation, dysfunctional immune system responses, and oxidative stress, among others. In this scenario, unbalanced diets, such as high sugar and high saturated fatty acids consumption, together with sedentary habits, are risk factors implicated in the development of NCCD and premature ageing. The nutritional and metabolic status of individuals interact with epigenetics at different levels. Thus, it is crucial to understand how we can modulate epigenetic marks through both lifestyle habits and targeted clinical interventions -including fasting mimicking diets, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compounds- which will contribute to restore the metabolic homeostasis in NCCD. Here, we first describe key metabolites from cellular metabolic pathways used as substrates to "write" the epigenetic marks; and cofactors that modulate the activity of the epigenetic enzymes; then, we briefly show how metabolic and epigenetic imbalances may result in disease; and, finally, we show several examples of nutritional interventions - diet based interventions, bioactive compounds, and nutraceuticals- and exercise to counteract epigenetic alterations.

Genetics: A Starting Point for the Prevention and the Treatment of Obesity

Obesity is a common, serious, and costly disease. More than 1 billion people worldwide are obese-650 million adults, 340 million adolescents, and 39 million children. The WHO estimates that, by 2025, approximately 167 million people-adults and children-will become less healthy because they are overweight or obese. Obesity-related conditions include heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. These are among the leading causes of preventable, premature death. The estimated annual medical cost of obesity in the United States was nearly $173 billion in 2019 dollars. Obesity is considered the result of a complex interaction between genes and the environment. Both genes and the environment change in different populations. In fact, the prevalence changes as the result of eating habits, lifestyle, and expression of genes coding for factors involved in the regulation of body weight, food intake, and satiety. Expression of these genes involves different epigenetic processes, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, or non-coding micro-RNA synthesis, as well as variations in the gene sequence, which results in functional alterations. Evolutionary and non-evolutionary (i.e., genetic drift, migration, and founder's effect) factors have shaped the genetic predisposition or protection from obesity in modern human populations. Understanding and knowing the pathogenesis of obesity will lead to prevention and treatment strategies not only for obesity, but also for other related diseases.

Plant-Derived Nutraceuticals Involved in Body Weight Control by Modulating Gene Expression

Obesity is the most prevalent health problem in the Western world, with pathological body weight gain associated with numerous co-morbidities that can be the main cause of death. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of obesity, such as diet, sedentary lifestyle, and genetic make-up. Genetic predispositions play an important role in obesity, but genetic variations alone cannot fully explain the explosion of obesity, which is why studies have turned to epigenetics. The latest scientific evidence suggests that both genetics and environmental factors contribute to the rise in obesity. Certain variables, such as diet and exercise, have the ability to alter gene expression without affecting the DNA sequence, a phenomenon known as epigenetics. Epigenetic changes are reversible, and reversibility makes these changes attractive targets for therapeutic interventions. While anti-obesity drugs have been proposed to this end in recent decades, their numerous side effects make them not very attractive. On the other hand, the use of nutraceuticals for weight loss is increasing, and studies have shown that some of these products, such as resveratrol, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ginger, capsaicin, and caffeine, can alter gene expression, restoring the normal epigenetic profile and aiding weight loss.

Serum microRNA Levels as a Biomarker for Diagnosing Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Chinese Colorectal Polyp Patients

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. It is reported that NAFLD is associated with colorectal polyps. Since identifying NAFLD in its early stages could prevent possible disease progression to cirrhosis and decrease the risk of HCC by early intervention, patients with colorectal polyp may thus be considered a target group for screening NAFLD. This study aimed to investigate the potential of serum microRNAs (miRNAs) in identifying NAFLD for colorectal polyp patients. Serum samples were collected from 141 colorectal polyp patients, of which 38 had NAFLD. The serum level of eight miRNAs was determined by quantitative PCR and delta Ct values of different miRNA pairs which were compared between NAFLD and control groups. A miRNA panel was formulated from candidate miRNA pairs by multiple linear regression model and ROC analysis was performed to evaluate its diagnostic potential for NAFLD. Compared to the control group, the NAFLD group showed significantly lower delta Ct values of miR-18a/miR-16 (6.141 vs. 7.374, p = 0.009), miR-25-3p/miR-16 (2.311 vs. 2.978, p = 0.003), miR-18a/miR-21-5p (4.367 vs. 5.081, p = 0.021) and miR-18a/miR-92a-3p (8.807 vs. 9.582, p = 0.020). A serum miRNA panel composed of these four miRNA pairs significantly identified NAFLD in colorectal polyp patients with an AUC value of 0.6584 (p = 0.004). The performance of the miRNA panel was further improved to an AUC value of 0.8337 (p < 0.0001) when polyp patients with other concurrent metabolic disorders were removed from the analysis. The serum miRNA panel is a potential diagnostic biomarker for screening NAFLD in colorectal polyp patients. This serum miRNA test could be performed for colorectal polyp patients for early diagnosis and for prevention of the disease from progressing into more advanced stages.

Expression Signature of Immune-Related MicroRNAs in Autoimmune Skin Disease: Psoriasis and Vitiligo Insights

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis and vitiligo are both chronic, skin-specific diseases classified as autoimmune diseases due to the involvement of several biochemical pathways in their pathogenesis, similar to those altered in other autoimmune diseases. The role of miRNAs in regulating skin autoimmune function has yet to be fully characterized.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the expression profile of a panel of 11 circulating immune-related miRNAs in patients with autoimmune skin diseases, specifically psoriasis and vitiligo, and correlate their expression signature with the clinicopathological features of the diseases.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Relative gene expression quantification for 11 immune-related circulating miRNAs in plasma was done for 300 subjects-100 patients with psoriasis, 100 patients with vitiligo and 100 normal healthy volunteers-followed by different modalities of bioinformatics analysis for the results.

RESULTS

The expression levels of all the studied immune-related miRNAs were elevated in both autoimmune skin disorders, with much higher levels of expression in psoriasis than in vitiligo patients. There was a significant correlation between most of the studied miRNAs, suggesting shared target genes and/or pathways. Moreover, all the studied miRNAs showed significant results as biomarkers for autoimmune skin disease, with miRNA-145 being the best candidate. Regarding the clinicopathological data, miRNA-7, miRNA-9, miRNA-145, miRNA-148a, and miRNA-148b were positively correlated with age. All the miRNAs were inversely correlated with obesity and disease duration.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the critical role of miRNAs in skin-specific autoimmune diseases that proved to be potential biomarkers for autoimmune skin disorders, warranting their exploration as therapeutic targets.

Role of δ-tocotrienol and resveratrol supplementation in the regulation of micro RNAs in patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of δ-tocotrienol and resveratrol mixture (TRM) supplementation in comparison to placebo for 24 weeks, on the relative expression of miRNAs (miRNA-130b-5p, miRNA-221-5p, miR-15b-5p, miRNA-122-5p, and miRNA-376b-5p) in patients with Metabolic syndrome (MetS).

DESIGN

This randomized placebo-controlled trial was conducted at the tertiary care institute of the NUMS, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A total of 82 adult MetS patients were enrolled and randomly grouped into the TRM group (n=41) and the Placebo group (n=41). Patients in the TRM group were given 400mg capsules (δ-tocotrienol 250mg; Resveratrol 150mg) and placebo received (cellulose 400mg capsule) twice daily for 24 weeks.

RESULTS

The TRM supplementation revealed a significant (p<0.001) upregulation of 3.05-fold in miRNA-130b-5p and 2.45-fold in miRNA-221-5p while miRNA-122-5p was downregulated by 2.22-fold as compared to placebo. No significant difference was observed in miRNA-15b-5p and miRNA-376b-5p. Moreover, TRM group participants with reverted MetS had significantly (p<0.05) upregulated miRNA-130b-5p, miRNA-221-5p, and downregulated miRNA-122-5p relative to non-reverted patients with MetS.

CONCLUSION

Daily TRM supplementation may improve metabolic syndrome by upregulated miR-130b-5p, which is involved in central obesity and inflammation, as well as miR-221-5p, which is involved in insulin resistance. Additionally, TRM downregulate of miRNA 122, which improved dyslipidemia.

Colon cancer transcriptome

Over the last four decades, methodological innovations have continuously changed transcriptome profiling. It is now feasible to sequence and quantify the transcriptional outputs of individual cells or thousands of samples using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). These transcriptomes serve as a connection between cellular behaviors and their underlying molecular mechanisms, such as mutations. This relationship, in the context of cancer, provides a chance to unravel tumor complexity and heterogeneity and uncover novel biomarkers or treatment options. Since colon cancer is one of the most frequent malignancies, its prognosis and diagnosis seem to be critical. The transcriptome technology is developing for an earlier and more accurate diagnosis of cancer which can provide better protectivity and prognostic utility to medical teams and patients. A transcriptome is a whole set of expressed coding and non-coding RNAs in an individual or cell population. The cancer transcriptome includes RNA-based changes. The combined genome and transcriptome of a patient may provide a comprehensive picture of their cancer, and this information is beginning to affect treatment decision-making in real-time. A full assessment of the transcriptome of colon (colorectal) cancer has been assessed in this review paper based on risk factors such as age, obesity, gender, alcohol use, race, and also different stages of cancer, as well as non-coding RNAs like circRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and siRNAs. Similarly, they have been examined independently in the transcriptome study of colon cancer.

Induction of miR-665-3p Impairs the Differentiation of Myogenic Progenitor Cells by Regulating the TWF1-YAP1 Axis

Actin dynamics are known to orchestrate various myogenic processes in progenitor cells. Twinfilin-1 (TWF1) is an actin-depolymerizing factor that plays a crucial role in the differentiation of myogenic progenitor cells. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the epigenetic regulation of TWF1 expression and impaired myogenic differentiation in the background of muscle wasting. This study investigated how miR-665-3p affects TWF1 expression, actin filaments' modulation, proliferation, and myogenic differentiation in progenitor cells. Palmitic acid, the most prevalent saturated fatty acid (SFA) in food, suppressed TWF1 expression and inhibited the myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells while increasing the level of miR-665-3p expression. Interestingly, miR-665-3p inhibited TWF1 expression by targeting TWF1 3'UTR directly. In addition, miR-665-3p accumulated filamentous actin (F-actin) and enhanced the nuclear translocation of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), consequently promoting cell cycle progression and proliferation. Furthermore, miR-665-3p suppressed the expressions of myogenic factors, i.e., MyoD, MyoG, and MyHC, and consequently impaired myoblast differentiation. In conclusion, this study suggests that SFA-inducible miR-665-3p suppresses TWF1 expression epigenetically and inhibits myogenic differentiation by facilitating myoblast proliferation via the F-actin/YAP1 axis.

Novel Insights into circRNA Saga Coming from Spermatozoa and Epididymis of HFD Mice

Obesity is a pathophysiological disorder associated with adiposity accumulation, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation state that is progressively increasing in younger population worldwide, negatively affecting male reproductive skills. An emerging topic in the field of male reproduction is circRNAs, covalently closed RNA molecules produced by backsplicing, actively involved in a successful spermatogenesis and in establishing high-quality sperm parameters. However, a direct correlation between obesity and impaired circRNA cargo in spermatozoa (SPZ) remains unclear. In the current work, using C57BL6/J male mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD, 60% fat) as experimental model of oxidative stress, we investigated the impact of HFD on sperm morphology and motility as well as on spermatic circRNAs. We performed a complete dataset of spermatic circRNA content by a microarray strategy, and differentially expressed (DE)-circRNAs were identified. Using a circRNA/miRNA/target network (ceRNET) analysis, we identified circRNAs potentially involved in oxidative stress and sperm motility pathways. Interestingly, we demonstrated an enhanced skill of HFD sperm in backsplicing activity together with an inefficient epididymal circRNA biogenesis. Fused protein in sarcoma (FUS) and its ability to recruit quaking (QKI) could be involved in orchestrating such mechanism.

Multi-omics approaches for precision obesity management : Potentials and limitations of omics in precision prevention, treatment and risk reduction of obesity

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease that cannot be addressed by simply promoting better diets and more physical activity. To date, not a single country has successfully been able to curb the accumulating burden of obesity. One explanation for the lack of progress is that lifestyle intervention programs are traditionally implemented without a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's diagnostic biomarkers. Evidence from genome-wide association studies highlight the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the development of obesity and how they in turn affect the transcriptome, metabolites, microbiomes, and proteomes.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the different types of omics data: genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and illustrate how a multi-omics approach can be fundamental for the implementation of precision obesity management.

RESULTS

The different types of omics designs are grouped into two categories, the genotype approach and the phenotype approach. When applied to obesity prevention and management, each omics type could potentially help to detect specific biomarkers in people with risk profiles and guide healthcare professionals and decision makers in developing individualized treatment plans according to the needs of the individual before the onset of obesity.

CONCLUSION

Integrating multi-omics approaches will enable a paradigm shift from the one size fits all approach towards precision obesity management, i.e. (1) precision prevention of the onset of obesity, (2) precision medicine and tailored treatment of obesity, and (3) precision risk reduction and prevention of secondary diseases related to obesity.

Investigating the Function of MicroRNAs in Human Retinal Microvascular Endothelial Cells of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the main complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Recent studies have implicated microRNAs dysfunction in human retinal microvascular endothelial cell (HRMEC). In this study, we aim to investigate the apoptotic promotion of miR-29b-3p by blocking SIRT1 in HRMEC for DR situation. To identify the regulating relationship between miR-29b-3p and SIRT1, HRMECs were transfected with miR-29b-3p mimics/inhibitors or their negative controls. Cell viability was assessed with the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and apoptotic cells were stained by one-step TUNEL assay kit. Gene and protein expression were assayed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting separately. Dual-luciferase reporter assay using HEK293T cells was performed to show the direct interaction of miR-29b-3p and the 3'-UTR of SIRT1. HRMECs were identified as >95% positive for CD31 and vWF. Upregulated miR-29b-3p decreased the expression of SIRT1 and increased the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, while downregulated miR-29b-3p increased the expression of SIRT1 protein and downregulated the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. Dual-luciferase reporter assay showed the direct interaction of miR-29b-3p and SIRT1. The dysregulation of miR-29b-3p/SIRT1 is a potential mechanism of HRMEC apoptosis in DR. miR-29b-3p/SIRT1 may be a potential therapeutic target for DR.

Precision Nutrition: Recent Advances in Obesity

"Precision nutrition" is an emerging area of nutrition research that focuses on understanding metabolic variability within and between individuals and helps develop customized dietary plans and interventions to maintain optimal individual health. It encompasses nutritional genomic (gene-nutrient interactions), epigenetic, microbiome, and environmental factors. Obesity is a complex disease that is affected by genetic and environmental factors and thus a relevant target of precision nutrition-based approaches. Recent studies have shown significant associations between obesity phenotypes (body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and central and regional adiposity) and genetic variants, epigenetic factors (DNA methylation and noncoding RNA), microbial species, and environment (sociodemographics and physical activity). Additionally, studies have also shown that the interactions between genetic variants, microbial metabolites, and epigenetic factors affect energy balance and adiposity. These include variants in FTO, MC4R, PPAR, APOA, and FADS genes, DNA methylation in CpG island regions, and specific miRNAs and microbial species such as Firmicutes, Bacteriodes, Clostridiales, etc. Similarly, studies have shown that microbial metabolites, folate, B-vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids interact with miRNAs to influence obesity phenotypes. With the advent of next-generation sequencing and analytical approaches, the advances in precision nutrition have the potential to lead to new paradigms, which can further lead to interventions or customized treatments specific to individuals or susceptible groups of individuals. This review highlights the recent advances in precision nutrition as applied to obesity and projects the importance of precision nutrition in obesity and weight management.

Circulating microRNAs Showed Specific Responses according to Metabolic Syndrome Components and Sex of Adults from a Population-Based Study

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate several metabolic pathways and are potential biomarkers for early risk prediction of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Our aim was to evaluate the levels of 21 miRNAs in plasma according to MetS components and sex in adults. We employed a cross-sectional study of 192 adults aged 20 to 59 years old from the 2015 Health Survey of São Paulo with Focus in Nutrition. Data showed reduced levels of miR-16 and miR-363 in women with MetS; however, men with one or more risk factors showed higher levels of miR-let-7c and miR-30a. Individuals with raised waist circumference showed higher levels of miR-let-7c, miR-122, miR-30a, miR-146a, miR-15a, miR-30d and miR-222. Individuals with raised blood pressure had higher miR-30a, miR-122 and miR-30a levels. Plasma levels of four miRNAs (miR-16, miR-363, miR-375 and miR-486) were lower in individuals with low HDL-cholesterol concentrations. In addition, plasma levels of five miRNAs (miR-122, miR-139, miR-let-7c, miR-126 and miR-30a) were increased in individuals with high fasting plasma glucose and/or insulin resistance. Our results suggest that the pattern of miRNA levels in plasma may be a useful early biomarker of cardiometabolic components of MetS and highlight the sex differences in the plasma levels of miRNAs in individuals with MetS.