Genes and Eating Preferences, Their Roles in Personalized Nutrition

A Systematic Review of the Gene-Lifestyle Interactions on Metabolic Disease-Related Outcomes in Arab Populations

The increased prevalence of metabolic diseases in the Arab countries is mainly associated with genetic susceptibility, lifestyle behaviours, such as physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. The objective of this review was to investigate and summarise the findings of the gene-lifestyle interaction studies on metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes in Arab populations. Relevant articles were retrieved from a literature search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar starting at the earliest indexing date through to January 2024. Articles that reported an interaction between gene variants and diet or physical activity were included and excluded if no interaction was investigated or if they were conducted among a non-Arab population. In total, five articles were included in this review. To date, among three out of twenty-two Arab populations, fourteen interactions have been found between the FTO rs9939609, TCF7L2 rs7903146, MC4R rs17782313, and MTHFR rs1801133 polymorphisms and diet or physical activity on obesity and type 2 diabetes outcomes. The majority of the reported gene-diet/ gene-physical activity interactions (twelve) appeared only once in the review. Consequently, replication, comparisons, and generalisation of the findings are limited due to the sample size, study designs, dietary assessment tools, statistical analysis, and genetic heterogeneity of the studied sample.

Seaweed intake modulates the association between VIPR2 variants and the incidence of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged Koreans

Vasoactive intrinsic peptide receptor (VIPR2), a circadian gene, is involved in metabolic homeostasis and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Seaweeds contain polysaccharides that regulate metabolic homeostasis, possibly by altering the effects of VIPR2 variants. We examined the relationship between VIPR2 expression and the incidence of MetS based on seaweed consumption. This study included 4979 Koreans aged ≥40 years using data from the Ansan-Ansung cohort of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. The total seaweeds included were laver, kelp, and sea mustard. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze the interactions between the VIPR2 rs6950857 genotype associated with MetS incidence and seaweed intake after adjusting for covariates such as region. A total of 2134 patients with MetS were followed for an average of 8.9 years. In men with the GG genotype of rs6950857, the highest quintile of seaweed consumption was associated with a decreased incidence of MetS compared with that of the lowest quintile (hazard ratio, 0.78; 95% confidence interval, 0.62-0.98). We identified a unique association between the rs6950857 genotype, seaweed intake, and MetS. These findings highlight the importance of VIPR2 and the regulatory role of seaweed consumption in MetS incidence.

Using casein and gluten protein fractions to obtain functional ingredients

Today, the food industry widely uses both animal and plant proteins. Animal proteins have a balanced amino acid composition, while plant proteins have more pronounced functional properties. However, both types of proteins can act as allergens, which limits their practical application. Therefore, we aimed to select optimal conditions for obtaining hypoallergenic mixtures based on casein hydrolysates and gluten proteins, which have good functional properties and a balanced amino acid composition. We used wheat flour (Makfa, Russia) with 12.6% of crude protein and 69.4% of starch, as well as rennet casein (Atletic Food, Russia) with 90% of protein. The methods included the Lowry method, the Anson method, Laemmli electrophoresis, ion-exchange chromatography, and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Protex 6L was an optimal enzyme preparation for the hydrolysis of gliadin, while chymotrypsin was optimal for the hydrolysis of glutenin and casein. The optimal amount for all the enzymes was 40 units/g of substrate. We analyzed the effect of casein, glutenin, and gliadin enzymolysis time on the functional properties of the hydrolysates and found that the latter had relatively low water- and fat-holding capacities. The highest foaming capacity was observed in gliadin hydrolysates, while the highest emulsifying capacity was registered in casein and glutenin hydrolysates. Further, protein enzymolysis significantly decreased allergenicity, so the hydrolysates can be used to obtain functional additives for hypoallergenic products. Finally, the mixtures of casein hydrolysate and gliadin or glutenin hydrolysates had a balanced amino acid composition and a high amino acid score. Also, they retained high emulsifying and foaming capacities. The study proved the need for mixtures based on wheat protein and casein hydrolysates, which have good functional properties and hypoallergenicity.

Eating Behavior and Obesity in a Sample of Spanish Schoolchildren

From the point of view of prevention, it is convenient to explore the association between eating behavior and the obese phenotype during school and adolescent age. The aim of the present study was to identify eating behavior patterns associated with nutritional status in Spanish schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study of 283 boys and girls (aged 6 to 16 years) was carried out. The sample was evaluated anthropometrically by Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body fat percentage (%BF). Eating behavior was analyzed using the CEBQ "Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire". The subscales of the CEBQ were significantly associated with BMI, WHtR and %BF. Pro-intake subscales (enjoyment of food, food responsiveness, emotional overeating, desire for drinks) were positively related to excess weight by BMI (β = 0.812 to 0.869; p = 0.002 to <0.001), abdominal obesity (β = 0.543-0.640; p = 0.02 to <0.009) and high adiposity (β = 0.508 to 0.595; p = 0.037 to 0.01). Anti-intake subscales (satiety responsiveness, slowness in eating, food fussiness) were negatively related to BMI (β = -0.661 to -0.719; p = 0.009 to 0.006) and % BF (β = -0.17 to -0.46; p = 0.042 to p = 0.016).

The Influence of the Differentiation of Genes Encoding Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors and Their Coactivators on Nutrient and Energy Metabolism

Genetic components may play an important role in the regulation of nutrient and energy metabolism. In the presence of specific genetic variants, metabolic dysregulation may occur, especially in relation to the processes of digestion, assimilation, and the physiological utilization of nutrients supplied to the body, as well as the regulation of various metabolic pathways and the balance of metabolic changes, which may consequently affect the effectiveness of applied reduction diets and weight loss after training. There are many well-documented studies showing that the presence of certain polymorphic variants in some genes can be associated with specific changes in nutrient and energy metabolism, and consequently, with more or less desirable effects of applied caloric reduction and/or exercise intervention. This systematic review focused on the role of genes encoding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and their coactivators in nutrient and energy metabolism. The literature review prepared showed that there is a link between the presence of specific alleles described at different polymorphic points in PPAR genes and various human body characteristics that are crucial for the efficacy of nutritional and/or exercise interventions. Genetic analysis can be a valuable element that complements the work of a dietitian or trainer, allowing for the planning of a personalized diet or training that makes the best use of the innate metabolic characteristics of the person who is the subject of their interventions.

Spicy Food and Chili Peppers and Multiple Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review

Spicy foods and chili peppers contain the primary ingredient capsaicin, which has potential health benefits. However, their efficacy in some health outcomes is also fiercely disputed, and some side effects have been confirmed. To assess the quality and strength of the associations between spicy food and chili pepper consumption and different health outcomes. An umbrella review is performed in humans. Eleven systematic reviews and meta-analyses with a total of 27 findings are identified. The health effect of consuming spicy food and chili peppers is unclear. Furthermore, the characteristics and context of different world regions and populations should be carefully considered. Direct correlations exist in esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and gallbladder cancer. However, negative connections are reported in metabolism, mortality, and cardiovascular disease. Dose-response analysis reveals a significant nonlinear relationship between gastric cancer risk and capsaicin intake. The consumption of spicy foods and chili peppers is typically safe. However, high-quality proof is available to confirm this conclusion.

Use of Edible, Medicinal, and Aromatic Plants in Various Health Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation among Inhabitants in the Area of Thrace, North-Eastern Greece

BACKGROUND

Medicinal and aromatical plants (MAPs) have been historically used as traditional remedies in many cultures in Europe and globally. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of MAPs in various health disorders in association to dietary habits and other lifestyle factors among residents in Thrace, NE Greece.

METHODS

Data were collected through anonymous and voluntary responses to a structured online questionnaire, via convenience (snowball) sampling.

RESULTS

The 561 responders (age: 39.7 ± 11.6 y) were mostly female (59.7%), with higher education (69.8%), working as state or private employees (55.4%), and having low/medium income (77.1%). Overall, more than 70% were using MAPs in various symptoms and common health disorders, such as chamomile against common cold and the flu. More than 20 different MAPs were being used in smaller frequencies against various conditions. Key contributing factors to the consumption of MAPs were sex (female over male), employment (employed vs. unemployed), education (higher education vs. lower) and higher Body Mass Index (overweight and obese vs. normal), while consumption of fruit, fish, and vegetables was mainly associated with the use of MAPs as common items of diet and in health disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of MAPs as part of the diet and as traditional remedy is present in the examined population, while particular choices seem to be affected by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

High Clinical and Genetic Similarity Between Chronic Pancreatitis Associated With Light-to-Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Classical Alcoholic Chronic Pancreatitis

Background and Aims

Heavy alcohol consumption and genetic factors represent the 2 major etiologies of chronic pancreatitis (CP). However, little is so far known about the clinical features and genetic basis of light-to-moderate alcohol consumption-related CP (LMA-CP).

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed on 1061 Chinese CP patients between 2010 and 2015. CP was classified as classical alcoholic CP (ACP; n = 206), LMA-CP (n = 154), and idiopathic CP (ICP; n = 701). Clinical features and genetic characteristics (PRSS1, SPINK1, CTRC, CFTR variant status) were compared between the different groups. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to ascertain the combinatorial effect of alcohol consumption and gene mutation.

Results

Compared with ICP, the clinical features of LMA-CP were characterized by higher rates of developing pancreatic stones, pseudocyst, diabetes, and steatorrhea, which were similar to those associated with ACP. The prevalence of CP-related gene variants in LMA-CP was 38.3%, similar to ACP (39.8%), although significantly lower than ICP (56.2%). Alcohol consumption enhanced the risk of a poor clinical outcome, whereas genetic factors amplified alcohol's effects. Compared with ICP, LMA-CP and ACP were associated with a high risk of pancreatic stones (patients without variants, OR = 2.01 and 2.54; patients with variants, OR = 2.17 and 1.07), pseudocyst (patients without variants, OR = 1.03 and 1.43; patients with variants, OR = 1.67 and 2.14), diabetes mellitus (patients without variants, OR = 0.86 and 1.31; patients with variants, OR = 2.05 and 1.55), and steatorrhea (patients without variants, OR = 1.56 and 2.10; patients with variants, OR = 2.11 and 1.60).

Conclusion

Evidence was presented to show that LMA-CP was clinically and genetically similar to ACP but significantly different from ICP. Our findings provide support to the growing view that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.

Germplasm Enhancement and Identification of Loci Conferring Resistance against Plasmodiophora brassicae in Broccoli

In order to breed broccoli and other Brassica materials to be highly resistant to clubroot disease, 41 Brassicaceae varieties were developed and identified between 2020 and 2021. Seven known clubroot genes were used for screening these materials. In addition, the resistant and susceptible broccoli cultivars were designed for observing their differences in the infection process with Plasmodiophora brassicae. The results showed that 90% of total materials had carried more than two clubroot resistance genes: one material carried two disease resistance genes, four materials carried seven genes for clubroot resistance, two materials carried six genes for clubroot resistance, and in total 32% of these materials carried five genes for clubroot resistance. As a result, several new genotypes of Brassicaceae germplasm were firstly created and obtained based on distant hybridization and identification of loci conferring resistance against Plasmodiophora brassicae in this study. We found and revealed that similar infection models of Plasmodiophora brassicae occurred in susceptible and resistant cultivars of broccoli, but differences in infection efficiency of Plasmodiophora brassicae also existed in both materials. For resistant broccoli plants, a small number of conidia formed in the root hair, and only a few spores could enter the cortex without forming sporangia while sporangia could form in susceptible plants. Our study could provide critical Brassica materials for breeding resistant varieties and new insight into understanding the mechanism of plant resistance.

Tackling Atherosclerosis via Selected Nutrition

The development and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis are significantly influenced by lifestyle, particularly nutrition. The modern level of science and technology development promote personalized nutrition as an efficient preventive measure against atherosclerosis. In this survey, the factors were revealed that contribute to the formation of an individual approach to nutrition: genetic characteristics, the state of the microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and environmental factors (diets, bioactive components, cardioprotectors, etc.). In the course of the work, it was found that in order to analyze the predisposition to atherosclerosis associated with nutrition, genetic features affecting the metabolism of nutrients are significant. The genetic features include the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of genes and epigenetic factors. The influence of telomere length on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and circadian rhythms was also considered. Relatively new is the study of the relationship between chrono-nutrition and the development of metabolic diseases. That is, to obtain the relationship between nutrition and atherosclerosis, a large number of genetic markers should be considered. In this relation, the question arises: “How many genetic features need to be analyzed in order to form a personalized diet for the consumer?” Basically, companies engaged in nutrigenetic research and choosing a diet for the prevention of a number of metabolic diseases use SNP analysis of genes that accounts for lipid metabolism, vitamins, the body’s antioxidant defense system, taste characteristics, etc. There is no set number of genetic markers. The main diets effective against the development of atherosclerosis were considered, and the most popular were the ketogenic, Mediterranean, and DASH-diets. The advantage of these diets is the content of foods with a low amount of carbohydrates, a high amount of vegetables, fruits and berries, as well as foods rich in antioxidants. However, due to the restrictions associated with climatic, geographical, material features, these diets are not available for a number of consumers. The way out is the use of functional products, dietary supplements. In this approach, the promising biologically active substances (BAS) that exhibit anti-atherosclerotic potential are: baicalin, resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin and other plant metabolites. Among the substances, those of animal origin are popular: squalene, coenzyme Q10, omega-3. For the prevention of atherosclerosis through personalized nutrition, it is necessary to analyze the genetic characteristics (SNP) associated with the metabolism of nutrients, to assess the state of the microbiota of the GIT. Based on the data obtained and food preferences, as well as the individual capabilities of the consumer, the optimal diet can be selected. It is topical to exclude nutrients of which their excess consumption stimulates the occurrence and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and to enrich the diet with functional foods (FF), BAS containing the necessary anti-atherosclerotic, and stimulating microbiota of the GIT nutrients. Personalized nutrition is a topical preventive measure and there are a number of problems hindering the active use of this approach among consumers. The key factors include weak evidence of the influence of a number of genetic features, the high cost of the approach, and difficulties in the interpretation of the results. Eliminating these deficiencies will contribute to the maintenance of a healthy state of the population through nutrition.

Functional Characterization and Molecular Marker Development of the Proenkephalin as Biomarker of Food Addiction in Food Habit Domestication of Mandarin Fish (Siniperca Chuatsi)

Proenkephalin (PENK), as the precursor of endogenous opioid enkephalin (ENK), is widely present in the nervous system and plays an important role in animal food addiction and rewarding behavior. In our study, we intend to study the functional characterization and molecular marker development of the penk gene related to food habit domestication of mandarin fish. We found that the penk gene of mandarin fish had three types of endogenous opioid peptide sequences. Compared with other tissues, penk mRNA was highly expressed in the whole brain. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of lysine or methionine significantly increased the expression of penk mRNA. The expression of penk mRNA in the brain of mandarin fish that could be easily domesticated from eating live prey fish to artificial diets was significantly higher than those that could not. After feeding with high-carbohydrate artificial diets, the expression of penk mRNA showed no significant difference between mandarin fish with hypophagia and those that still ate normally. A total of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) loci related to easy domestication toward eating artificial diets were screened from the mandarin fish population. Additionally, the TT genotype at one of the loci was significantly correlated with the food habit domestication of mandarin fish.

Making a case for genomics in chiropractic education

OBJECTIVE

To determine if an existing course in genetics should be revised to refocus on the topic of genomics and its impact on health and primary care, a survey of chiropractors was conducted regarding genomics and patient care.

METHODS

A short survey was designed to ascertain chiropractors' knowledge and use of genomics in their practices, particularly regarding direct to consumer genetic testing. Nine closed-ended questions and 2 open-ended questions were included. Pearson correlation was used to evaluate relationships between close-ended responses. Content analysis was conducted on the final open-ended question that queried respondents for further comments.

RESULTS

There were 181 completed surveys returned. Patients do ask chiropractors about their own direct to consumer genetic testing results-42% indicated that they are approached by patients 1-3 times per month to discuss genetics/genomics. Knowledge of genomics varies among chiropractors, yet 51% feel that teaching genomics is moderately (31%) or extremely (20%) important.

CONCLUSION

An introductory course in clinical genomics is necessary to prepare a chiropractor for patient care.

Sweet Taste Preference: Relationships with Other Tastes, Liking for Sugary Foods and Exploratory Genome-Wide Association Analysis in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome

Taste perception and its association with nutrition and related diseases (type 2 diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular, etc.) are emerging fields of biomedicine. There is currently great interest in investigating the environmental and genetic factors that influence sweet taste and sugary food preferences for personalized nutrition. Our aims were: (1) to carry out an integrated analysis of the influence of sweet taste preference (both in isolation and in the context of other tastes) on the preference for sugary foods and its modulation by type 2 diabetes status; (2) as well as to explore new genetic factors associated with sweet taste preference. We studied 425 elderly white European subjects with metabolic syndrome and analyzed taste preference, taste perception, sugary-foods liking, biochemical and genetic markers. We found that type 2 diabetic subjects (38%) have a small, but statistically higher preference for sweet taste (p = 0.021) than non-diabetic subjects. No statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in preferences for the other tastes (bitter, salty, sour or umami) were detected. For taste perception, type 2 diabetic subjects have a slightly lower perception of all tastes (p = 0.026 for the combined “total taste score”), bitter taste being statistically lower (p = 0.023). We also carried out a principal component analysis (PCA), to identify latent variables related to preferences for the five tastes. We identified two factors with eigenvalues >1. Factor 2 was the one with the highest correlation with sweet taste preference. Sweet taste preference was strongly associated with a liking for sugary foods. In the exploratory SNP-based genome-wide association study (GWAS), we identified some SNPs associated with sweet taste preference, both at the suggestive and at the genome-wide level, especially a lead SNP in the PTPRN2 (Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type N2) gene, whose minor allele was associated with a lower sweet taste preference. The PTPRN2 gene was also a top-ranked gene obtained in the gene-based exploratory GWAS analysis. In conclusion, sweet taste preference was strongly associated with sugary food liking in this population. Our exploratory GWAS identified an interesting candidate gene related with sweet taste preference, but more studies in other populations are required for personalized nutrition.