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van der Veer BK, Chen L, Tsaniras SC, Brangers W, Chen Q, Schroiff M, Custers C, Kwak HH, Khoueiry R, Cabrera R, Gross SS, Finnell RH, Lei Y, Koh KP. Epigenetic regulation by TET1 in gene-environmental interactions influencing susceptibility to congenital malformations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.21.581196. [PMID: 39026762 PMCID: PMC11257484 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.21.581196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The etiology of neural tube defects (NTDs) involves complex gene-environmental interactions. Folic acid (FA) prevents NTDs, but the mechanisms remain poorly understood and at least 30% of human NTDs resist the beneficial effects of FA supplementation. Here, we identify the DNA demethylase TET1 as a nexus of folate-dependent one-carbon metabolism and genetic risk factors post-neural tube closure. We determine that cranial NTDs in Tet1 -/- embryos occur at two to three times higher penetrance in genetically heterogeneous than in homogeneous genetic backgrounds, suggesting a strong impact of genetic modifiers on phenotypic expression. Quantitative trait locus mapping identified a strong NTD risk locus in the 129S6 strain, which harbors missense and modifier variants at genes implicated in intracellular endocytic trafficking and developmental signaling. NTDs across Tet1 -/- strains are resistant to FA supplementation. However, both excess and depleted maternal FA diets modify the impact of Tet1 loss on offspring DNA methylation primarily at neurodevelopmental loci. FA deficiency reveals susceptibility to NTD and other structural brain defects due to haploinsufficiency of Tet1. In contrast, excess FA in Tet1 -/- embryos drives promoter DNA hypermethylation and reduced expression of multiple membrane solute transporters, including a FA transporter, accompanied by loss of phospholipid metabolites. Overall, our study unravels interactions between modified maternal FA status, Tet1 gene dosage and genetic backgrounds that impact neurotransmitter functions, cellular methylation and individual susceptibilities to congenital malformations, further implicating that epigenetic dysregulation may underlie NTDs resistant to FA supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard K. van der Veer
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Lehua Chen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Spyridon Champeris Tsaniras
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Wannes Brangers
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Qiuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Mariana Schroiff
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Colin Custers
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Harm H.M. Kwak
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Rita Khoueiry
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Robert Cabrera
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Steven S. Gross
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Richard H. Finnell
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yunping Lei
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kian Peng Koh
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Seyoum Tola F. The concept of folic acid supplementation and its role in prevention of neural tube defect among pregnant women: PRISMA. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38154. [PMID: 38728462 PMCID: PMC11081602 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9, found in supplements and fortified foods, while folate occurs naturally in foods. Folic acid and its derivatives are extremely important in the synthesis of nucleic acids (DNA and ribose nucleic acid [RNA]) and different proteins. It acts as a coenzyme for the transfer of 1 carbon in the biosynthesis of purine, pyrimidine, and amino acids. Folic acid is critically important in rapidly proliferating tissues, including fetus and trophoblastic tissue to prevent neural tube defect (NTD). The main objective of this review is to identify the role of folic acid to prevent NTD among pregnancy mothers. Electronic databases including Web of Science, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane library used to systematically search without limitation of publication date and status. In pregnancy, the first trimester is a significant time for neural tube closure. Decreased blood folic acid levels inhibit DNA replication, repair, RNA synthesis, histone and DNA methylation, methionine production, and homocysteine remethylation reactions that cause NTDs in pregnancy. Therefore, folic acid supplementation is critically important for childbearing mothers before conception and in the first trimester pregnancy. As a result, women are recommended to take 400 microgram FA/day from preconception until the end of the first trimester to prevent NTD-affected pregnancies. This allows the developing neural tissue to acquire critical mass and provides the preferred rostrocaudal orientation so that these divisions contribute to the elongation of the developing neural tube in embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fikadu Seyoum Tola
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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3
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Knuth MM, Campos CV, Smith K, Hutchins EK, Lewis S, York M, Coghill LM, Franklin C, MacFarlane A, Ericsson AC, Magnuson T, Ideraabdullah F. Timing of standard chow exposure determines the variability of mouse phenotypic outcomes and gut microbiota profile. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.28.587032. [PMID: 38585881 PMCID: PMC10996631 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.28.587032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Standard chow diet contributes to reproducibility in animal model experiments since chows differ in nutrient composition, which can independently influence phenotypes. However, there is little evidence of the role of timing in the extent of variability caused by chow exposure. Here, we measured the impact of diet (5V5M, 5V0G, 2920X, and 5058) and timing of exposure (adult exposure (AE), lifetime exposure (LE), and developmental exposure (DE)) on growth & development, metabolic health indicators, and gut bacterial microbiota profiles across genetically identical C57BL6/J mice. Diet drove differences in macro- and micronutrient intake for all exposure models. AE had no effect on measured outcomes. However, LE mice exhibited significant sex-dependent diet effects on growth, body weight, and body composition. LE effects were mostly absent in the DE model, where mice were exposed to chow differences from conception to weaning. Both AE and LE models exhibited similar diet-driven beta diversity profiles for the gut bacterial microbiota, with 5058 diet driving the most distinct profile. Diet-induced beta diversity profiles were sex-dependent for LE mice. Compared to AE, LE drove 9X more diet-driven differentially abundant genera, majority of which were the result of inverse effects of 2920X and 5058. Our findings demonstrate that lifetime exposure to different chow diets has the greatest impact on reproducibility of experimental measures that are common components of preclinical mouse model studies. Importantly, weaning DE mice onto a uniform diet is likely an effective way to reduce unwanted phenotypic variability among experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M. Knuth
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Carolina Vieira Campos
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Translational Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-881, Brazil
| | - Kirsten Smith
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Elizabeth K. Hutchins
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Shantae Lewis
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mary York
- University of Missouri (MU) Bioinformatics and Analytics Core, Bond Life Sciences Center, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Lyndon M. Coghill
- University of Missouri (MU) Bioinformatics and Analytics Core, Bond Life Sciences Center, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, MU, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Craig Franklin
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, MU, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Mutant Mouse Resource and Research Center at the University of Missouri (MU MMRRC), Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- MU Metagenomics Center (MUMC), University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Amanda MacFarlane
- Texas A&M Agriculture, Food, and Nutrition Evidence Center, Fort Worth, TX 76102, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station TX 77843, USA
| | - Aaron C. Ericsson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, MU, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Mutant Mouse Resource and Research Center at the University of Missouri (MU MMRRC), Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- MU Metagenomics Center (MUMC), University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Terry Magnuson
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Mutant Mouse Resource and Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Folami Ideraabdullah
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Xu X, Zhang Z, Lin Y, Xie H. Risk of Excess Maternal Folic Acid Supplementation in Offspring. Nutrients 2024; 16:755. [PMID: 38474883 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, facilitates the transfer of methyl groups among molecules, which is crucial for amino acid metabolism and nucleotide synthesis. Adequate maternal folate supplementation has been widely acknowledged for its pivotal role in promoting cell proliferation and preventing neural tube defects. However, in the post-fortification era, there has been a rising concern regarding an excess maternal intake of folic acid (FA), the synthetic form of folate. In this review, we focused on recent advancements in understanding the influence of excess maternal FA intake on offspring. For human studies, we summarized findings from clinical trials investigating the effects of periconceptional FA intake on neurodevelopment and molecular-level changes in offspring. For studies using mouse models, we compiled the impact of high maternal FA supplementation on gene expression and behavioral changes in offspring. In summary, excessive maternal folate intake could potentially have adverse effects on offspring. Overall, we highlighted concerns regarding elevated maternal folate status in the population, providing a comprehensive perspective on the potential adverse effects of excessive maternal FA supplementation on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiguang Xu
- Epigenomics and Computational Biology Lab, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Ziyu Zhang
- Epigenomics and Computational Biology Lab, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Yu Lin
- Epigenomics and Computational Biology Lab, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Genetics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Hehuang Xie
- Epigenomics and Computational Biology Lab, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Genetics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health Program, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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5
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Fardous AM, Heydari AR. Uncovering the Hidden Dangers and Molecular Mechanisms of Excess Folate: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:4699. [PMID: 37960352 PMCID: PMC10648405 DOI: 10.3390/nu15214699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review delves into the intricate relationship between excess folate (vitamin B9) intake, especially its synthetic form, namely, folic acid, and its implications on health and disease. While folate plays a pivotal role in the one-carbon cycle, which is essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, concerns arise about its excessive intake. The literature underscores potential deleterious effects, such as an increased risk of carcinogenesis; disruption in DNA methylation; and impacts on embryogenesis, pregnancy outcomes, neurodevelopment, and disease risk. Notably, these consequences stretch beyond the immediate effects, potentially influencing future generations through epigenetic reprogramming. The molecular mechanisms underlying these effects were examined, including altered one-carbon metabolism, the accumulation of unmetabolized folic acid, vitamin-B12-dependent mechanisms, altered methylation patterns, and interactions with critical receptors and signaling pathways. Furthermore, differences in the effects and mechanisms mediated by folic acid compared with natural folate are highlighted. Given the widespread folic acid supplementation, it is imperative to further research its optimal intake levels and the molecular pathways impacted by its excessive intake, ensuring the health and well-being of the global population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M. Fardous
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
| | - Ahmad R. Heydari
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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6
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Maynard AG, Petrova B, Kanarek N. Notes from the 2022 Folate, Vitamin B12, and One-Carbon Metabolism Conference. Metabolites 2023; 13:486. [PMID: 37110145 PMCID: PMC10147059 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13040486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present notes from the Folate, Vitamin B12, and One-Carbon Metabolism Conference organized by The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB), held in Asheville, North Carolina, USA, 14-19 August 2022. We aim to share the most recent findings in the field with members of our scientific community who did not attend the meeting and who are interested in the research that was presented. The research described includes discussions of one-carbon metabolism at the biochemical and physiological levels and studies of the role of folate and B12 in development and in the adult, and from bacteria to mammals. Furthermore, the summarized studies address the role of one-carbon metabolism in disease, including COVID-19, neurodegeneration, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G. Maynard
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Boryana Petrova
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Naama Kanarek
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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7
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Bobrowski-Khoury N, Sequeira JM, Quadros EV. Brain Uptake of Folate Forms in the Presence of Folate Receptor Alpha Antibodies in Young Rats: Folate and Antibody Distribution. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15051167. [PMID: 36904166 PMCID: PMC10005127 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In a rat model, following exposure to rat folate receptor alpha antibodies (FRαAb) during gestation, FRαAb accumulates in the placenta and the fetus and blocks folate transport to the fetal brain and produces behavioral deficits in the offspring. These deficits could be prevented with folinic acid. Therefore, we sought to evaluate folate transport to the brain in young rat pups and determine what effect FRαAb has on this process, to better understand the folate receptor autoimmune disorder associated with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). When injected intraperitoneally (IP), FRαAb localizes to the choroid plexus and blood vessels including the capillaries throughout the brain parenchyma. Biotin-tagged folic acid shows distribution in the white matter tracts in the cerebrum and cerebellum. Since these antibodies can block folate transport to the brain, we orally administered various folate forms to identify the form that is better-absorbed and transported to the brain and is most effective in restoring cerebral folate status in the presence of FRαAb. The three forms of folate, namely folic acid, D,L-folinic acid and levofolinate, are converted to methylfolate while L-methylfolate is absorbed as such and all are efficiently distributed to the brain. However, significantly higher folate concentration is seen in the cerebrum and cerebellum with levofolinate in the presence or absence of FRαAb. Our results in the rat model support testing levofolinate to treat CFD in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey M. Sequeira
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Edward V. Quadros
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
- Correspondence:
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8
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Alnabbat KI, Fardous AM, Shahab A, James AA, Bahry MR, Heydari AR. High Dietary Folic Acid Intake Is Associated with Genomic Instability in Peripheral Lymphocytes of Healthy Adults. Nutrients 2022; 14:3944. [PMID: 36235597 PMCID: PMC9571807 DOI: 10.3390/nu14193944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mandatory fortification of food with synthetic folic acid (FA) was instituted in 1998 to reduce the incidence of neural tube defects. Adequate folate status is correlated with numerous health benefits. However, elevated consumption of FA is controversially associated with deleterious effects on health. We previously reported that excess FA mimicked folate depletion in a lymphoblastoid cell line. To explore the impact of FA intake from fortified food, we conducted an observational human study on 33 healthy participants aged 18-40 not taking any supplements. Food intake, anthropomorphic measurements, and blood samples were collected and analyzed. Our results show that individuals belonging to the highest tertile of folic acid intake, as well as ones with the highest folic acid to total folate intake ratio (FAR), display a significantly greater incidence of lymphocyte genomic damage. A decrease in global DNA methylation is observed in the highest tertile of FAR compared to the lowest (p = 0.055). A downward trend in the overall gene expression of select DNA repair and one carbon cycle genes (MGMT, MLH1, UNG, MTHFR, MTR) is noted with increased folate status and FA intake. These results provide supporting evidence that high consumption of FA from fortified foods can precipitate genomic instability in peripheral lymphocyte in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijah I Alnabbat
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Department of Food and Nutrition Sciences, King Faisal University, Al Hufūf 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M Fardous
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Aiman Shahab
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Andrew A James
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Manhel R Bahry
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Ahmad R Heydari
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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9
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High Folate, Perturbed One-Carbon Metabolism and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14193930. [PMID: 36235580 PMCID: PMC9573299 DOI: 10.3390/nu14193930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate is a dietary micronutrient essential to one-carbon metabolism. The World Health Organisation recommends folic acid (FA) supplementation pre-conception and in early pregnancy to reduce the risk of fetal neural tube defects (NTDs). Subsequently, many countries (~92) have mandatory FA fortification policies, as well as recommendations for periconceptional FA supplementation. Mandatory fortification initiatives have been largely successful in reducing the incidence of NTDs. However, humans have limited capacity to incorporate FA into the one-carbon metabolic pathway, resulting in the increasingly ubiquitous presence of circulating unmetabolised folic acid (uFA). Excess FA intake has emerged as a risk factor in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Several other one-carbon metabolism components (vitamin B12, homocysteine and choline-derived betaine) are also closely entwined with GDM risk, suggesting a role for one-carbon metabolism in GDM pathogenesis. There is growing evidence from in vitro and animal studies suggesting a role for excess FA in dysregulation of one-carbon metabolism. Specifically, high levels of FA reduce methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) activity, dysregulate the balance of thymidylate synthase (TS) and methionine synthase (MTR) activity, and elevate homocysteine. High homocysteine is associated with increased oxidative stress and trophoblast apoptosis and reduced human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) secretion and pancreatic β-cell function. While the relationship between high FA, perturbed one-carbon metabolism and GDM pathogenesis is not yet fully understood, here we summarise the current state of knowledge. Given rising rates of GDM, now estimated to be 14% globally, and widespread FA food fortification, further research is urgently needed to elucidate the mechanisms which underpin GDM pathogenesis.
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Early Life Stage Folic Acid Deficiency Delays the Neurobehavioral Development and Cognitive Function of Rat Offspring by Hindering De Novo Telomere Synthesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136948. [PMID: 35805953 PMCID: PMC9266327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Early life stage folate status may influence neurodevelopment in offspring. The developmental origin of health and disease highlights the importance of the period of the first 1000 days (from conception to 2 years) of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of early life stage folic acid deficiency on de novo telomere synthesis, neurobehavioral development, and the cognitive function of offspring rats. The rats were divided into three diet treatment groups: folate-deficient, folate-normal, and folate-supplemented. They were fed the corresponding diet from 5 weeks of age to the end of the lactation period. After weaning, the offspring rats were still fed with the corresponding diet for up to 100 days. Neurobehavioral tests, folic acid and homocysteine (Hcy) levels, relative telomere length in brain tissue, and uracil incorporation in telomere in offspring were measured at different time points. The results showed that folic acid deficiency decreased the level of folic acid, increased the level of Hcy of brain tissue in offspring, increased the wrong incorporation of uracil into telomeres, and hindered de novo telomere synthesis. However, folic acid supplementation increased the level of folic acid, reduced the level of Hcy of brain tissue in offspring, reduced the wrong incorporation of uracil into telomeres, and protected de novo telomere synthesis of offspring, which was beneficial to the development of early sensory-motor function, spatial learning, and memory in adolescence and adulthood. In conclusion, early life stage folic acid deficiency had long-term inhibiting effects on neurodevelopment and cognitive function in offspring.
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Bobrowski-Khoury N, Sequeira JM, Arning E, Bottiglieri T, Quadros EV. Absorption and Tissue Distribution of Folate Forms in Rats: Indications for Specific Folate Form Supplementation during Pregnancy. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14122397. [PMID: 35745126 PMCID: PMC9228663 DOI: 10.3390/nu14122397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Food fortification and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy have been implemented as strategies to prevent fetal malformations during pregnancy. However, with the emergence of conditions where folate metabolism and transport are disrupted, such as folate receptor alpha autoantibody (FRαAb)-induced folate deficiency, it is critical to find a folate form that is effective and safe for pharmacologic dosing for prolonged periods. Therefore, in this study, we explored the absorption and tissue distribution of folic acid (PGA), 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate (MTHF), l-folinic acid (levofolinate), and d,l-folinic acid (Leucovorin) in adult rats. During absorption, all forms are converted to MTHF while some unconverted folate form is transported into the blood, especially PGA. The study confirms the rapid distribution of absorbed folate to the placenta and fetus. FRαAb administered, also accumulates rapidly in the placenta and blocks folate transport to the fetus and high folate concentrations are needed to circumvent or overcome the blocking of FRα. In the presence of FRαAb, both Leucovorin and levofolinate are absorbed and distributed to tissues better than the other forms. However, only 50% of the leucovorin is metabolically active whereas levofolinate is fully active and generates higher tetrahydrofolate (THF). Because levofolinate can readily incorporate into the folate cycle without needing methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and methionine synthase (MS) in the first pass and is relatively stable, it should be the folate form of choice during pregnancy, other disorders where large daily doses of folate are needed, and food fortification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Bobrowski-Khoury
- The School of Graduate Studies, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA;
| | - Jeffrey M. Sequeira
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA;
| | - Erland Arning
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX 75204, USA; (E.A.); (T.B.)
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX 75204, USA; (E.A.); (T.B.)
| | - Edward V. Quadros
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA;
- Correspondence:
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12
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Excessive Folic Acid Mimics Folate Deficiency in Human Lymphocytes. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:1452-1462. [PMID: 35723355 PMCID: PMC9164024 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44040097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Food fortification with synthetic folic acid (FA), along with supplementation, results in a marked increase in the population total of serum folates and unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA). Despite the success in reducing neural tube defects at birth in the intended target population (women of childbearing age), the potential deleterious effects of chronically high levels of UMFA in susceptible segments of the population require further investigation. In this study, we examine the effects of FA concentrations, ranging from depletion to supraphysiological levels, on markers of proliferation, DNA methylation, and DNA damage and repair in a human lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL). We note that both low and high levels of FA similarly impact global DNA methylation, cytome biomarkers measured through the CBMN assay, DNA damage induced by oxidative stress, and DNA base excision repair gene expression.
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13
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Moderate Folic Acid Supplementation in Pregnant Mice Results in Altered Sex-Specific Gene Expression in Brain of Young Mice and Embryos. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14051051. [PMID: 35268026 PMCID: PMC8912750 DOI: 10.3390/nu14051051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Food fortification and increased vitamin intake have led to higher folic acid (FA) consumption by many pregnant women. We showed that FA-supplemented diet in pregnant mice (fivefold higher FA than the recommended level (5xFASD)) led to hyperactivity-like behavior and memory impairment in pups. Disturbed choline/methyl metabolism and altered placental gene expression were identified. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of 5xFASD on the brain at two developmental stages, postnatal day (P) 30 and embryonic day (E) 17.5. Female C57BL/6 mice were fed a control diet or 5xFASD for 1 month before mating. Diets were maintained throughout the pregnancy and lactation until P30 or during pregnancy until E17.5. The 5xFASD led to sex-specific transcription changes in P30 cerebral cortex and E17.5 cerebrum, with microarrays showing a total of 1003 and 623 changes, respectively. Enhanced mRNA degradation was observed in E17.5 cerebrum. Expression changes of genes involved in neurotransmission, neuronal growth and development, and angiogenesis were verified by qRT-PCR; 12 and 15 genes were verified at P30 and E17.5, respectively. Hippocampal collagen staining suggested decreased vessel density in FASD male embryos. This study provides insight into the mechanisms of neurobehavioral alterations and highlights potential deleterious consequences of moderate folate oversupplementation during pregnancy.
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14
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Folic Acid, Folinic Acid, 5 Methyl TetraHydroFolate Supplementation for Mutations That Affect Epigenesis through the Folate and One-Carbon Cycles. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020197. [PMID: 35204698 PMCID: PMC8961567 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation is an essential biochemical mechanism that is central to the transmission of life, and crucially responsible for regulating gametogenesis and continued embryo development. The methylation of DNA and histones drives cell division and regulation of gene expression through epigenesis and imprinting. Brain development and its maturation also depend on correct lipid methylation, and continued neuronal function depends on biogenic amines that require methylation for their synthesis. All methylation processes are carried out via a methyltransferase enzyme and its unique co-factor S-adenosylmethionine (SAM); the transfer of a methyl group to a target molecule results in the release of SAH (SA homocysteine), and then homocysteine (Hcy). Both of these molecules are toxic, inhibiting methylation in a variety of ways, and Hcy recycling to methionine is imperative; this is achieved via the one carbon cycle, supported by the folates cycle. Folate deficiency causes hyperhomocysteinaemia, with several associated diseases; during early pregnancy, deficiency interferes with closure of the neural tube at the fourth week of gestation, and nutraceutical supplementation has been routinely prescribed to prevent neural tube defects, mainly involving B vitamins, Zn and folates. The two metabolic pathways are subject to single nucleotide polymorphisms that alter their activity/capacity, often severely, impairing specific physiological functions including fertility, brain and cardiac function. The impact of three types of nutraceutical supplements, folic acid (FA), folinic acid (FLA) and 5 Methyl THF (MTHF), will be discussed here, with their positive effects alongside potentially hazardous secondary effects. The issue surrounding FA and its association with UMFA (unmetabolized folic acid) syndrome is now a matter of concern, as UMFA is currently found in the umbilical cord of the fetus, and even in infants’ blood. We will discuss its putative role in influencing the acquisition of epigenetic marks in the germline, acquired during embryogenesis, as well as the role of FA in the management of cancerous disease.
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15
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OUP accepted manuscript. Nutr Rev 2022; 80:2178-2197. [DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuac025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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16
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Yang X, Sun W, Wu Q, Lin H, Lu Z, Shen X, Chen Y, Zhou Y, Huang L, Wu F, Liu F, Chu D. Excess Folic Acid Supplementation before and during Pregnancy and Lactation Alters Behaviors and Brain Gene Expression in Female Mouse Offspring. Nutrients 2021; 14:nu14010066. [PMID: 35010941 PMCID: PMC8746785 DOI: 10.3390/nu14010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of folic acid (FA) during early pregnancy protects against birth defects. However, excess FA has shown gender-specific neurodevelopmental toxicity. Previously, we fed the mice with 2.5 times the recommended amount of FA one week prior to mating and during the pregnancy and lactation periods, and detected the activated expression of Fos and related genes in the brains of weaning male offspring, as well as behavioral abnormalities in the adults. Here, we studied whether female offspring were affected by the same dosage of FA. An open field test, three-chamber social approach and social novelty test, an elevated plus-maze, rotarod test and the Morris water maze task were used to evaluate their behaviors. RNA sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed genes in the brains. Quantitative real time-PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blots were applied to verify the changes in gene expression. We found increased anxiety and impaired exploratory behavior, motor coordination and spatial memory in FA-exposed females. The brain transcriptome revealed 36 up-regulated and 79 down-regulated genes in their brains at weaning. The increase of Tlr1; Sult1a1; Tph2; Acacb; Etnppl; Angptl4 and Apold1, as well as a decrease of Ppara mRNA were confirmed by qRT-PCR. Among these genes; the mRNA levels of Etnppl; Angptl4andApold1 were increased in the both FA-exposed female and male brains. The elevation of Sult1a1 protein was confirmed by Western blots. Our data suggest that excess FA alteres brain gene expression and behaviors in female offspring, of which certain genes show apparent gender specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.Y.); (Q.W.); (X.S.); (L.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (H.L.); (F.W.)
| | - Wenyan Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (W.S.); (Z.L.); (Y.C.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Qian Wu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.Y.); (Q.W.); (X.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Hongyan Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (H.L.); (F.W.)
| | - Zhixing Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (W.S.); (Z.L.); (Y.C.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.Y.); (Q.W.); (X.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Yongqi Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (W.S.); (Z.L.); (Y.C.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (W.S.); (Z.L.); (Y.C.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Li Huang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.Y.); (Q.W.); (X.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Feng Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (H.L.); (F.W.)
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Neurochemistry, Inge Grundke-Iqbal Research Floor, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY 10314, USA
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Dandan Chu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.Y.); (Q.W.); (X.S.); (L.H.)
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (D.C.)
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Zhao R, An Z, Sun Y, Xia L, Qiu L, Yao A, Liu Y, Liu L. Metabolic profiling in early pregnancy and associated factors of folate supplementation: A cross-sectional study. Clin Nutr 2021; 40:5053-5061. [PMID: 34455263 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy generally alters the balance of maternal metabolism, but the molecular profiles in early pregnancy and associated factors of folate supplementation in pregnant women remains incompletely understood. METHODS Untargeted metabonomics based on high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry integrated with multivariate metabolic pathway analysis were applied to characterize metabolite profiles and associated factors of folate supplements in early pregnancy. The metabolic baseline of early pregnancy was determined by metabolic analysis of 510 serum samples from 131 non-pregnant and 379 pregnant healthy Chinese women. The pathophysiology of adaptive reactions and metabolic challenges induced by folate supplementation in early pregnancy was further compared between pregnant women with (n = 168) and without (n = 184) folate supplements. RESULTS Compared with non-pregnant participants, 106 metabolites, majority of which are related to amino acids and lysophosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylcholine, and 13 metabolic pathways were significantly changed in early pregnancy. The supplementation of folate in early pregnancy induced marked changes in N-acyl ethanolamine 22:0, N-acyl taurine 18:2, glycerophosphoserine 44:1 and 8,11,14-eicosatrienoate, proline, and aminoimidazole ribotide levels. CONCLUSIONS During early pregnancy, the metabolism of amino acids significantly changes to meet the physiological requirements of pregnant women. Folate intake may change glucose and lipid metabolism. These findings provide a comprehensive landscape for understanding the basic characteristics and gestational metabolic networks of early pregnancy and folate supplementation. This study provides a basis for further research into the relationship between metabolic markers and pregnancy diseases. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study protocol was registered on www.ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03651934, on August 29, 2018 (prior to recruitment).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhao
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated with Beijing Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, PR China
| | - Zhuoling An
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated with Beijing Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, PR China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated with Beijing Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, PR China
| | - Liangyu Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, China Academic Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Ling Qiu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, China Academic Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Aimin Yao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Shunyi District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanping Liu
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, China Academic Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, PR China.
| | - Lihong Liu
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated with Beijing Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, PR China.
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18
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Luan Y, Leclerc D, Cosín-Tomás M, Malysheva OV, Wasek B, Bottiglieri T, Caudill MA, Rozen R. Moderate Folic Acid Supplementation in Pregnant Mice Results in Altered Methyl Metabolism and in Sex-Specific Placental Transcription Changes. Mol Nutr Food Res 2021; 65:e2100197. [PMID: 34010503 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202100197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE Many pregnant women have higher folic acid (FA) intake due to food fortification and increased vitamin use. It is reported that diets containing five-fold higher FA than recommended for mice (5xFASD) during pregnancy resulted in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency and altered choline/methyl metabolism, with neurobehavioral abnormalities in newborns. The goal is to determine whether these changes have their origins in the placenta during embryonic development. METHODS AND RESULTS Female mice are fed control diet or 5xFASD for a month before mating and maintained on these diets until embryonic day 17.5. 5xFASD led to pseudo-MTHFR deficiency in maternal liver and altered choline/methyl metabolites in maternal plasma (increased methyltetrahydrofolate and decreased betaine). Methylation potential (S-adenosylmethionine:S-adenosylhomocysteine ratio) and glycerophosphocholine are decreased in placenta and embryonic liver. Folic acid supplemented diet results in sex-specific transcriptome profiles in placenta, with validation of dietary expression changes of 29 genes involved in angiogenesis, receptor biology or neurodevelopment, and altered methylation of the serotonin receptor 2A gene. CONCLUSION Moderate increases in folate intake during pregnancy result in placental metabolic and gene expression changes, particularly in angiogenesis, which may contribute to abnormal behavior in pups. These results are relevant for determining a safe upper limit for folate intake during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Luan
- Departments of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center (MUHC), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Daniel Leclerc
- Departments of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center (MUHC), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marta Cosín-Tomás
- Departments of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center (MUHC), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Olga V Malysheva
- Division of Nutritional Sciences and Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Brandi Wasek
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Marie A Caudill
- Division of Nutritional Sciences and Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Rima Rozen
- Departments of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center (MUHC), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Pannia E, Hammoud R, Kubant R, Sa JY, Simonian R, Wasek B, Ashcraft P, Bottiglieri T, Pausova Z, Anderson GH. High Intakes of [6S]-5-Methyltetrahydrofolic Acid Compared with Folic Acid during Pregnancy Programs Central and Peripheral Mechanisms Favouring Increased Food Intake and Body Weight of Mature Female Offspring. Nutrients 2021; 13:1477. [PMID: 33925570 PMCID: PMC8146511 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Supplementation with [6S]-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (MTHF) is recommended as an alternative to folic acid (FA) in prenatal supplements. This study compared equimolar gestational FA and MTHF diets on energy regulation of female offspring. Wistar rats were fed an AIN-93G diet with recommended (2 mg/kg diet) or 5-fold (5X) intakes of MTHF or FA. At weaning, female offspring were fed a 45% fat diet until 19 weeks. The 5X-MTHF offspring had higher body weight (>15%), food intake (8%), light-cycle energy expenditure, and lower activity compared to 5X-FA offspring (p < 0.05). Both the 5X offspring had higher plasma levels of the anorectic hormone leptin at birth (60%) and at 19 weeks (40%), and lower liver weight and total liver lipids compared to the 1X offspring (p < 0.05). Hypothalamic mRNA expression of leptin receptor (ObRb) was lower, and of suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (Socs3) was higher in the 5X-MTHF offspring (p < 0.05), suggesting central leptin dysregulation. In contrast, the 5X-FA offspring had higher expression of genes encoding for dopamine and GABA- neurotransmitter receptors (p < 0.01), consistent with their phenotype and reduced food intake. When fed folate diets at the requirement level, no differences were found due to form in the offspring. We conclude that MTHF compared to FA consumed at high levels in the gestational diets program central and peripheral mechanisms to favour increased weight gain in the offspring. These pre-clinical findings caution against high gestational intakes of folates of either form and encourage clinical trials examining their long-term health effects when consumed during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Pannia
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
| | - Rola Hammoud
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
| | - Ruslan Kubant
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
| | - Jong Yup Sa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
| | - Rebecca Simonian
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
| | - Brandi Wasek
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, TX 75226, USA; (B.W.); (P.A.); (T.B.)
| | - Paula Ashcraft
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, TX 75226, USA; (B.W.); (P.A.); (T.B.)
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, TX 75226, USA; (B.W.); (P.A.); (T.B.)
| | - Zdenka Pausova
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - G. Harvey Anderson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (E.P.); (R.H.); (R.K.); (J.Y.S.); (R.S.); (Z.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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