The relationship between dietary fatty acids and inflammatory genes on the obese phenotype and serum lipids

Diet-Induced Early Inflammatory Response of Visceral Adipose Tissue in Healthy Male Wistar Rats

The prolonged consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) leads to abnormal growth of the visceral adipose tissue (VAT), increased macrophage infiltration, and altered secretion of biologically active molecules. This is considered as a precondition for the development of obesity, inflammation, and obesity-related disorders. Therefore, we studied HFD-induced changes in the tissue levels of the inflammatory markers C-reactive protein, serum amyloid-A, and interleukin-4 in healthy male Wistar rats. The animals were first divided at random into two groups subjected to either a standard or a high-fat diet. The initial effect of the diet was evaluated after fourteen weeks. In order to study the diet duration effect, the standard diet was given to twelve animals from the HFD group, while the remaining continued with the HFD for an additional four weeks. Our results showed that the HFD barely affected body mass index, conicity, relative fat mass, and Lee indices, whereas it provoked adipocyte hypertrophy and gradually increased the levels of both the pro- and anti-inflammatory markers. The switch from the high-fat to the standard diet resulted in the comparatively fast restoration of the baseline levels of the studied molecules. Although, the prolonged consumption of an HFD causes adipocyte hypertrophy in healthy male animals, the inflammatory process in VAT is well-coordinated, time-dependent, and reversible.

Dietary inflammatory index and neuropsychiatric disorders

Neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) are considered a potential threat to mental health. Inflammation predominantly plays a role in the pathophysiology of NPDs. Dietary patterns are widely postulated to be involved in the physiological response to inflammation. This review aims to discuss the literature on how dietary inflammatory index (DII) is related to inflammation and, consequently, NPDs. After comprehensive scrutiny in different databases, the articles that investigated the relation of DII score and various NPDs and psychological circumstances were included. The association between dietary patterns and mental disorders comprising depression, anxiety, and stress proved the role of a proinflammatory diet in these conditions' exacerbation. Aging is another condition closely associated with DII. The impact of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory diet on sleep quality indicated related disorders like sleep latency and day dysfunctions among the different populations are in relation with the high DII score. The potential effects of genetic backgrounds, dietary patterns, and the gut microbiome on DII are discussed as well. To plan preventive or therapeutic interventions considering the DII, these factors, especially genetic variations, should be considered as there is a growing body of literature indicating the role of personalized medicine in different NPDs. To the best of our knowledge, there is a limited number of RCTs on this subject, so future research should evaluate the causality via RCTs and look for therapeutic interventions with an eye on personalized medicine using information about DII in NPDs.

Obesity and hypertension: Obesity medicine association (OMA) clinical practice statement (CPS) 2023

Background

This Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) provides an overview of the mechanisms and treatment of obesity and hypertension.

Methods

The scientific support for this CPS is based upon published citations, clinical perspectives of OMA authors, and peer review by the Obesity Medicine Association leadership.

Results

Mechanisms contributing to obesity-related hypertension include unhealthful nutrition, physical inactivity, insulin resistance, increased sympathetic nervous system activity, renal dysfunction, vascular dysfunction, heart dysfunction, increased pancreatic insulin secretion, sleep apnea, and psychosocial stress. Adiposopathic factors that may contribute to hypertension include increased release of free fatty acids, increased leptin, decreased adiponectin, increased renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation, increased 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, reduced nitric oxide activity, and increased inflammation.

Conclusions

Increase in body fat is the most common cause of hypertension. Among patients with obesity and hypertension, weight reduction via healthful nutrition, physical activity, behavior modification, bariatric surgery, and anti-obesity medications mostly decrease blood pressure, with the greatest degree of weight reduction generally correlated with the greatest degree of blood pressure reduction.

Obesity is associated with IL-6 gene polymorphisms rs1800795 and rs1800796 but not SOCS3 rs4969170

BACKGROUND

An imbalance of inflammatory factors can stimulate obesity by inducing chronic inflammation in adipose tissue. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine with both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) acts as an inhibitor for a number of cytokine signals. The IL-6 and SOCS3 genes are known to be involved in lipid and energy metabolism, although it is unclear how these genes relate to obesity. The aim of this study is to determine whether the obesity risk is associated with the IL-6 (rs1800795, rs1800796) and SOCS3 (rs4969170) gene polymorphisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Based on their body mass index (BMI) scores, 185 people were determined, of whom 90 were from the control group and 95 were obese. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters of the study subjects were documented during the examination. Genomic DNA isolation was performed from the blood samples of all participants. IL-6 (rs1800795, rs1800796) and SOCS3 (rs4969170) polymorphisms were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) from genomic DNA samples. The IL-6 rs1800795 and rs1800796 variants showed a significant difference between the control and obese groups (p = 0.027; p = 0.013). The SOCS3 rs4969170 variation did not substantially differ between the control and obese groups (p = 0.825).

CONCLUSION

In our study, IL-6 rs1800795(G/C) and rs1800796(G/C) polymorphisms appeared to be a risk factor for obesity. The C allele was associated with the obesity phenotypes. However, the SOCS3 rs4969170 (A/G) polymorphism was not linked to an increased risk of obesity. IL-6 polymorphisms may be new targets for obesity treatment.

Are levels of adipokines and micronutrients different in male adult smokers and non-smokers? A case-control study

OBJECTIVE

Smoking is a common public problem leading to increases in oxidative stress and decreases in the levels of some micronutrients, finally affecting adipokine levels. The aim of this study was to compare the serum levels of omentin (intelectin-1), chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes in male smokers and non-smokers.

METHODS

40 male smokers and 40 male non-smokers with a mean age of 38.6±14.1 years were included in this study. Serum levels of omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α were measured. To calculate the daily intake of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, and some of the micronutrients, the 24-h recall and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used.

RESULTS

Omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α levels in male smokers were lower than non-smokers, but these differences were not statistically significant. However, after adjustment for total and saturated fat intakes and age, omentin (β=138.4, p=0.027) and TNF-α (β=144.5, p=0.015) revealed significant differences.

CONCLUSION

The serum levels of omentin, chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes were not significantly different between smokers and non-smokers. Further population studies are needed to clarify this subject.

SYTL3-SLC22A3 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Gene-Gene/Environment Interactions on the Risk of Hyperlipidemia

The current study aims to further delineate the associations between the synaptotagmin-like 3 (SYTL3) and solute carrier family 22 member 3 (SLC22A3) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their haplotypes and gene–gene (G × G)/environment (G × E) interactions on the risk of hyperlipidemia (HLP) in the Maonan and Han ethnic groups. Genotype distribution among the SYTL3–SLC22A3 SNPs in 2,829 individual patients bearing no relationship to each other (Han, 1,436; Maonan, 1,393) was analyzed utilizing next-generation sequencing techniques. The genotype frequencies of the rs6455600, rs2129209, and rs446809 SNPs were varied between the two ethnic groups (P < 0.05–0.001). Various SNPs were correlated with serum levels of triglyceride (TG; rs446809), total cholesterol (TC; rs6455600, rs2129209, and rs539298), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; rs446809) among the Han population, whereas various SNPs were also correlated with TC (rs6455600 and rs539298), TG (rs446809), and LDL-C (rs446809) levels in the Maonan ethnic group (P < 0.008–0.001). One part of haplotypes resulted in worsened HLP-related morbidity in the Han (SYTL3 A-C-A-A; SLC22A3 A-A and A-G; and SYTL3–SLC22A3 A-C-A-A-A-A and A-C-A-A-A-G) and Maonan (SYTL3 A-C-A-A; SLC22A3 A-A and A-G; and SYTL3–SLC22A3 A-C-A-A-A-A, G-T-C-A-A-A, and G-T-C-A-C-A) ethnic groups, whereas another part of haplotypes lowered HLP-related health risks in the Han (SLC22A3 C-A and C-G and SYTL3–SLC22A3 A-C-A-A-C-A, A-C-A-A-C-G, and G-T-C-A-C-A) and Maonan (SLC22A3 C-G and SYTL3–SLC22A3 A-C-A-A-C-G) ethnic groups. We discovered that the SYTL3–SLC22A3 SNPs and their haplotypes were associated with serum lipid levels and the risk of HLP in our studied populations.

Association between the PLTP rs4810479 SNP and Serum Lipid Traits in the Chinese Maonan and Han Populations

The association between the phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) gene rs4810479 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and serum lipid levels is largely unknown. This investigation aimed to evaluate the relationship between the PLTP rs4810479 SNP, several environmental risk factors, and serum lipid parameters in the Chinese Maonan and Han nationalities. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism, gel electrophoresis, and direct sequencing were employed to determine the PLTP rs4810479 genotypes in 633 Maonan and 646 Han participants. The frequencies of CC, CT, and TT genotypes and the C allele were different between Maonan and Han groups (29.07%, 53.08%, 17.85%, and 55.61% vs. 35.60%, 49.70%, 14.70%, and 60.45%, respectively, P < 0.05). The C allele carriers in the Maonan group had higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than the C allele noncarriers, but this finding was only found in Maonan males but not in females. The C allele carriers in Han males had lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than the C allele noncarriers. Serum lipid profiles were also affected by several traditional cardiovascular risk factors in both populations. There might be an ethnic- and/or sex-specific association between the PLTP rs4810479 SNP and serum lipid traits.

Diet can exert both analgesic and pronociceptive effects in acute and chronic pain models: a systematic review of preclinical studies

BACKGROUND

Although diet is an essential aspect of human health, the link between diet and pain is still not well understood. Preclinical animal research provides information to understand underlying mechanisms that allow identifying the needs for human research.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to give a systematic overview of the current evidence from preclinical studies regarding the analgesic and pronociceptive effects of various diets in non-neuropathic, non-cancer, or non-visceral acute and chronic pain models.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic Review.

SETTING

This study examined studies that investigate the analgesic and pronociceptive effects of various diets in non-neuropathic, non-cancer, or non-visceral acute and chronic pain models.

METHODS

This review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42019133473. The certainty of evidence was examined by a modified GRADE approach.

RESULTS

After the screening process twenty-four eligible papers were included in this review. Nineteen studies examined acute pain, nine studies chronic inflammatory pain, and four studies assessed both acute and chronic pain models.

LIMITATIONS

Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, a meta-analysis was not included in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

In animal models, excessive saturated, monounsaturated or omega-6 polyunsaturated fat ingestion and diets rich in fats and carbohydrates can decrease pain sensitivity in acute nociceptive pain, whereas it can induce mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in chronic inflammatory pain. Additionally, diets rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients, as well as a calorie-restricted diet can promote recovery from primary mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in chronic inflammatory pain.

Relationship between Nutrient Intake and Human Gut Microbiota in Monozygotic Twins

Background and Objectives: The gut microbiota is associated with human health and dietary nutrition. Various studies have been reported in this regard, but it is difficult to clearly analyze human gut microbiota as individual differences are significant. The causes of these individual differences in intestinal microflora are genetic and/or environmental. In this study, we focused on differences between identical twins in Japan to clarify the effects of nutrients consumed on the entire gut microbiome, while excluding genetic differences. Materials and Methods: We selected healthy Japanese monozygotic twins for the study and confirmed their zygosity by matching 15 short tandem repeat loci. Their fecal samples were subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analyses to identify and compare the fluctuations in intestinal bacteria. Results: We identified 12 genera sensitive to environmental factors, and found that Lactobacillus was relatively unaffected by environmental factors. Moreover, we identified protein, fat, and some nutrient intake that can affect 12 genera, which have been identified to be more sensitive to environmental factors. Among the 12 genera, Bacteroides had a positive correlation with retinol equivalent intake (rs = 0.38), Lachnospira had a significantly negative correlation with protein, sodium, iron, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 intake (rs = −0.38, −0.41, −0.39, −0.63, −0.42, −0.49, respectively), Lachnospiraceae ND3007 group had a positive correlation with fat intake (rs = 0.39), and Lachnospiraceae UCG-008 group had a negative correlation with the saturated fatty acid intake (rs = −0.45). Conclusions: Our study is the first to focus on the relationship between human gut microbiota and nutrient intake using samples from Japanese twins to exclude the effects of genetic factors. These findings will broaden our understanding of the more intuitive relationship between nutrient intake and the gut microbiota and can be a useful basis for finding useful biomarkers that contribute to human health.

High-fat diet and fructose drink introduced after weaning rats, induces a better human obesity model than very high-fat diet

In the present study, we associated a high-fat diet (HF group: 45% kcal from lipids) or very high-fat (VHF group: 60% kcal from lipids) diet with a fructose drink (10% fructose) for hydration. Normal rat chow that received the control diet (content 16.3% kcal from lipid-AIN93G) and water. The treatments were introduced soon after weaning and were administered for 70 days. We aimed to compare HF and VHF groups and find which acts as a better model mimicking human obesity. Body mass gain, final body weight, adipocyte area in inguinal depots, visceral and subcutaneous adipose depots, serum triacylglycerol, and VLDL-c were all higher in the HF group, followed by the VHF group, compared to the C group. Only the HF group showed hyperinsulinemia and hyperleptinemia and higher total caloric intake, Lee index, HOMA2-IR, and total cholesterol. Serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels were lower in the HF and VHF groups than in the C group at the end for 70 days. In Summary, the HF (45%) diet administered with fructose induced a higher similarity of metabolic and hormonal alterations associated with human obesity. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: High intake of lipids with sugary drinks has been associated with obesity and its comorbidities. Although a diet with 45% or 60% of lipids is considered hyperlipidic, they are different in their effects on eating behavior and also probably from a metabolic point of view. Common sense is that the reduction in intake of lipids is favorable to health. Our study shows that this is not wholly true, and this information contributes to the guidelines for the treatment of obesity. In addition, the scientific literature on the subject has shown the most diverse results and also the use of experimental models with few similarities with human obesity. Our findings can contribute as a good model of obesity initiated during childhood to investigate possible using nutritional strategies, or the adoption of ergogenic nutritional resources in future studies, for example.

Comparative analysis of gene expression profiles in differentiated subcutaneous adipocytes between Jiaxing Black and Large White pigs

Background

Chinese domestic pig breeds are reputed for pork quality, but their low ratio of lean-to-fat carcass weight decreases production efficiency. A better understanding of the genetic regulation network of subcutaneous fat tissue is necessary for the rational selection of Chinese domestic pig breeds. In the present study, subcutaneous adipocytes were isolated from Jiaxing Black pigs a Chinese indigenous pig breed with redundant subcutaneous fat deposition and Large White pigs a lean-type pig breed with relatively low subcutaneous fat deposition. The expression profiles of mRNAs and lncRNAs were compared by RNA-seq analysis to identify biomarkers correlated with the differences of subcutaneous fat deposition between the two breeds.

Results

A total of 1058 differentially expressed genes and 221 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified in subcutaneous adipocytes between Jiaxing Black and Large White pigs, which included 275 up-regulated mRNAs, 783 down-regulated mRNAs, 118 up-regulated lncRNAs and 103 down-regulated lncRNAs. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that the differentially expressed genes and differentially expressed lncRNAs were mainly involved in the immune response, cell fate determination, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway, which are known to be related to adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. The expression levels of differentially expressed genes and differentially expressed lncRNAs according to the RNA-seq data were verified by quantitative PCR, which showed 81.8% consistency. The differences in MAPK pathway activity between Jiaxing Black and Large White pigs was confirmed by western blot analysis, which revealed elevated p38 phosphorylation in Jiaxing Black pigs.

Conclusions

This study offers a detailed characterization of mRNAs and lncRNAs in fat- and lean-type pig breeds. The activity of the MAPK signaling pathway was found to be associated with subcutaneous adipogenesis. These results provide new targets for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms regulating subcutaneous fat deposition in pigs.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-020-07361-9.

Association between SLC44A4-NOTCH4 SNPs and serum lipid levels in the Chinese Han and Maonan ethnic groups

BACKGROUND

The current research was to assess the relationship of the solute carrier family 44 member 4 (SLC44A4) rs577272, notch receptor 4 (NOTCH4) rs3134931 SNPs and serum lipid levels in the Han and Maonan ethnic groups.

METHODS

The genetic makeup of the SLC44A4 rs577272 and NOTCH4 rs3134931 SNPs in 2467 unrelated subjects (Han, 1254; Maonan,1213) was obtained by using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism technique, combined with gel electrophoresis, and confirmed by direct sequencing.

RESULTS

The genotype frequencies of SLC44A4 rs577272 and NOTCH4 rs3134931 SNPs were different between Han and Maonan populations (P < 0.05); respectively. The SLC44A4 rs577272 SNP was associated with total cholesterol (TC) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in Maonan group. The NOTCH4 rs3134931 SNP was associated with triglyceride (TG) in Han; and TG and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in Maonan groups (P < 0.025-0.001). Stratified analysis according to gender showed that the SLC44A4 rs577272 SNP was associated with TC and HDL-C in Han and Maonan females; TC in Maonan males, meanwhile, the NOTCH4 rs3134931 SNP was associated with TG and HDL-C in Han males; TG in Han females; TG and LDL-C in Maonan males; and TG, HDL-C and LDL-C in Maonan females. Linkage disequilibrium analysis showed that the most common haplotype was rs577272G-rs3134931A (> 50%) in both Han and Maonan groups. The haplotype of rs577272G-rs3134931A was associated with TG and HDL-C in Han; and TC, TG and HDL-C in Maonan ethnic groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the relationship among SLC44A4 rs577272, NOTCH4 rs3134931 SNPs and serum lipid parameters may vary depending on the gender and/or ethnicity/race in some populations. Haplotypes could explain more changes in serum lipid parameters than any single SNP alone particularly for TC, TG and HDL-C.

Pro-inflammatory effect of obesity on rats with burn wounds

Objective

A burn is an inflammatory injury to the skin or other tissue due to contact with thermal, radioactive, electric, or chemical agents. Burn injury is an important cause of disability and death worldwide. Obesity is a significant public health problem, often causing underlying systemic inflammation. Studying the combined impact of burn injuries on obese patients has become critical to the successful treatment of these patients. The aim of this paper is to highlight the effect of inflammation associated with burn injuries on several body weight group in a rat study.

Materials and methods

Different degrees of obesity and burns were established in rats and divided into a normal weight group, overweight group, obese group, second-degree burn group, third-degree burn group, over-weight second-degree burn group, over-weight third-degree burn group, obese second-degree burn group, and obese third-degree burn group (20 rats per group). Changes in inflammatory factors and growth factor were measured on the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 14th days after burns were inflicted.

Results

The ELISA test showed that in the unburned control group, MCP-1, IL-1β and TNF-α protein expressions in the obese and over-weight groups were higher than the normal-weight group (P < 0.05). RT-PCR test showed that the expressions of MCP-1, IL-1β and TNF-α genes in the obese group were higher compared to the overweight and normal weight groups (P < 0.05). Three and 7 days after burns were inflicted, the level of VEGF in the normal weight group was higher than the obese group (P < 0.05), however increased VEGF was not observed on days 1 and 14.

Conclusion

Burn injury and obesity have a mutually synergistic effect on the body’s inflammatory response.

High-fat diet-induced adipose tissue expansion occurs prior to insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice

Background

To date, there is only scare evidence characterizing the temporal features and progression of metabolic dysfunction in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed obese mice. Hence, its specific pathogenesis remains unclear.

Methods

Sixty 6-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into HFD and control diet (CD) groups and sacrificed at 1, 5, 9, 13, 17, and 21 weeks, respectively. At weekly intervals, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance testing (IPGTT) and intraperitoneal insulin tolerance testing (IPITT) were performed in both groups. A detailed time course in HFD-fed mice was investigated by evaluating the initiation of glucose homeostasis impairment, dyslipidemia, systemic insulin sensitivity, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels, epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) expansion, macrophage content changes, pro-inflammatory (M1)/anti-inflammatory (M2) macrophage imbalance, lipid accumulation in the liver, and β-cell morphometry in the pancreas.

Results

In the HFD group, progressive weight gain and impairments in glucose metabolism (elevated fasting blood glucose and area under the curve (AUC) of IPGTT) were observed from the 3rd week, and a significantly elevated AUC of IPITT was first detected after week 7 of HFD feeding. As for dyslipidemia, after 9 weeks of feeding, the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and total cholesterol level in HFD group were significantly higher than those in the CD group (all P < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were shown in triglyceride level. Adipocyte size increased significantly in the HFD group in the 1st week, a phenotypic switch in eWAT from anti-inflammatory (M2) to pro-inflammatory (M1) macrophages was observed in the 5th week, and the metabolic inflammation was distinct in eWAT in the 9th week. Additionally, liver steatosis was considerably obvious at the 17th week and pancreatic β-cell morphometry did not change during 21 weeks of HFD feeding.

Conclusion

The eWAT expansion was detected early in HFD-induced obese mice, which occurred prior to obvious insulin resistance.

The CXCL12 SNPs and their haplotypes are associated with serum lipid traits

The relationship among the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 gene (CXCL12) and the serum lipid profiles in the Chinese population has rarely been described, especially in somewhat old-fashioned and isolated Maonan minority. The goal of the current study was to elucidate the connection among the CXCL12 rs501120 and rs1746048 SNPs, haplotypes, several environmental factors and serum lipid traits in the Maonan as well as Han populations. Genotyping of the two SNPs, gel electrophoresis and direct sequencing were accomplished in 1,494 distinct subjects (Maonan, 750 and Han, 744) using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. The frequencies of genotypes as well as alleles of the two SNPs were not similar between the two ethnic groups. The rs501120 SNP was related with serum total cholesterol levels, while the rs1746048 SNP was related with serum apolipoprotein (Apo) B levels. Four haplotypes were identified, of which the rs501120A-rs1746048C haplotype was the most common. The haplotypes of rs501120A-rs1746048T increased and rs501120G-rs1746048C decreased the risk of hyperlipidemia (P < 0.001 for each), showing consistent association with the levels of serum triglyceride, ApoA1 and ApoB. These outcomes specify that the CXCL12 SNPs as well as their haplotypes are related to serum lipid levels. Different serum lipid levels between both populations may partially be related to the CXCL12 SNPs, their haplotypes along with several environmental factors.

Tagging Fatty Acids Via Choline Coupling for the Detection of Carboxylic Acid Metabolites in Biological Samples

Background:

Fatty acids and other metabolites containing a carboxyl group are of high interest in biomedicine because of their major role in many metabolic pathways and, particularly in the case of oxidised fatty acids, their high biological activity. Tagging carboxylic acid compounds with a permanent positive charge such as a quaternary ammonium compound could increase the LC-MS detection sensitivity and selectivity. This paper describes a new and novel strategy for analysing carboxylcontaining compounds in biological samples by ESI-MS through coupling to choline.

Methods:

Coupling of carboxylic acid derivatives in biological samples was performed by coupling to 2-Fluoro-1, 3 dimethyl –pyridinium (FDMP). The variation in the fatty acid profile of five different plasma samples was studied and was illustrated by using principal components analysis (PCA) to group the samples. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) modelling was then applied to identify the fatty acids that were responsible for the variation.

Results:

The test results showed that choline coupling reactions were successful in detecting fatty acids, oxidised fatty acids and other compounds containing carboxylic acid groups in biological samples. The PCA results showed loadings of different fatty acids according to the plasma sample allowing identification of the fatty acids responsible for the observed variation.

Conclusion:

A new and easy tagging method was developed to detect carboxylic acids in plasma samples. The method proved to be precise and reproducible and can quantify fatty acid compounds to 50 ng/ml.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Inhibit IL-17A Secretion through Decreased ICAM-1 Expression in T Cells Co-Cultured with Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Harvested from Adipose Tissues of Obese Subjects

SCOPE

Obese adipose tissue (AT) is infiltrated by inflammatory immune cells including IL-17A-producing-T (Th17) cells. It has been previously demonstrated that adipose-derived stem cells from obese (ob-ASCs), but not lean AT promote Th17 cells. Because n-3 PUFAs are known to inhibit obese AT inflammation, it is tested here whether they could inhibit ob-ASC-mediated IL-17A secretion.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The n-3 PUFA precursor, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), or its derivatives, eicosapentaenoic, or docosahexaenoic acid, is added to co-cultures of human ob-ASCs and mononuclear cells (MNCs). All three inhibited IL-17A, but not IL-1β, IL-6, nor TNFα  secretion. As a control, palmitic acid (PA), a saturated fatty acid, did not inhibit IL-17A secretion. ALA also inhibited IL-17A secretion mediated by adipocytes differentiated from ob-ASCs. Toll-like-receptor 4 is shown to be involved in ob-ASC-mediated-IL-17A secretion, and to be inhibited by ALA, together with Cyclo-Oxygenase-2 and Signal-Transducer-and-Activator-of-transcription-3. In addition, ALA down-regulated Intercellular-Adhesion-Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in both monocytes and ASCs, which resulted in decreased interactions between ob-ASCs and MNCs, and inhibition of IL-17A secretion.

CONCLUSION

It is demonstrated herein that ALA inhibits Th17 cell promotion, through decreased ICAM-1expression in both ob-ASCs and monocytes. This novel mechanism may contribute to explain the beneficial effects of n-3 PUFA in IL-17A-related inflammatory pathologies.

Dietary Fatty Acids and the Metabolic Syndrome: A Personalized Nutrition Approach

Dietary fatty acids are present in a wide variety of foods and appear in different forms and lengths. The different fatty acids are known to have various effects on metabolic health. The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of risk factors of chronic diseases. The etiology of the MetS is represented by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Dietary fatty acids can be important contributors of the evolution or in prevention of the MetS; however, great interindividual variability exists in the response to fatty acids. The identification of genetic variants interacting with fatty acids might explain this heterogeneity in metabolic responses. This chapter reviews the mechanisms underlying the interactions between the different components of the MetS, dietary fatty acids and genes. Challenges surrounding the implementation of personalized nutrition are also covered.

Association between the MGAT1 rs634501 polymorphism and serum lipid traits in the Chinese Han and Maonan ethnic groups

Little is known about the association of monoacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 gene (MGAT1) rs634501 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and serum lipid profiles in the Chinese populations. The aim of this study was to detect the association of the MGAT1 rs634501 SNP and several environmental factors with serum lipid levels in the Chinese Maonan and Han populations. Genotypes of the SNP in 2014 unrelated participants (Han, 986; Maonan, 1028) were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism combined with gel electrophoresis, and confirmed by direct sequencing. The genotypic and allelic frequencies of the MGAT1 rs634501 SNP were significantly different between the Han and Maonan populations as well as between males and females in the Maonan population. The A allele carriers had lower serum apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 levels, the ApoA1/ApoB ratio and higher ApoB levels in Maonans; and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, ApoA1 levels, ApoA1/ApoB ratio, and higher triglyceride levels in Han than the A allele non-carriers. There were also different associations of the MGAT1 rs634501 SNP and serum lipid profiles between males and females in the both ethnic groups. Serum lipid parameters in the two ethnic groups were also associated with several environmental factors. These results suggest that the association of the MGAT1 rs634501 SNP and serum lipid parameters might have ethnic- and/or sex-specificity.

Association between -174G>C polymorphism in the IL-6 promoter region and the risk of obesity: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Many researchers have suggested that the -174G>C polymorphism in the interleukin-6 (IL-6) promoter region contributes to the risk of obesity; however, this hypothesis is still inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to combine the data from several studies to arrive at a conclusion regarding the association between -174G>C polymorphism and the risk of obesity.

METHODS

The PubMed and Embase databases were searched up to February 20, 2018. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity were also performed.

RESULTS

Ten eligible studies involving 7210 cases were performed to identify the association strength. The association strength was measured by the ORs and 95% CIs. By pooling the eligible studies, we found a significant association between the -174G>C polymorphism and obesity risk (C vs G: OR = 1.37; 95% CI, 1.08-1.74; Pheterogeneity < .01). Overall, individuals with the variant CC (OR = 1.58; 95% CI, 1.09-2.28; Pheterogeneity < 0.01) and GC/CC (OR = 1.61; 95% CI, 1.13-2.29; Pheterogeneity < .01) were associated with a significantly increased risk of obesity.

CONCLUSION

The meta-analysis results suggested that the polymorphism -174G>C in the IL-6 promoter region was associated with a significantly increased risk of obesity.

Association of the APOA1 rs964184 SNP and serum lipid traits in the Chinese Maonan and Han populations

BACKGROUND

Maonan nationality belongs to a mountain ethnic minority in China. Little is known about the association of apolipoprotein A1 gene (APOA1) rs964184 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and serum lipid levels in this population. The aim of this study was to detect the association of the APOA1 rs964184 SNP and several environmental factors with serum lipid profiles in the Chinese Maonan and Han populations.

METHODS

Genotypes of the APOA1 rs964184 SNP in 867 individuals of Maonan nationality and 820 participants of Han nationality were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism, combined with gel electrophoresis, and confirmed by direct sequencing.

RESULTS

The frequencies of CC, CG and GG genotypes of the APOA1 rs964184 SNP were 68.86, 29.18 and 1.96% in the Maonan population, and 63.78, 30.85 and 5.37% in the Han population (P < 0.001). The frequency of the G allele was 16.55% in Maonan and 20.79% in Han (P < 0.001). The G allele carriers had lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in Maonan and higher triglyceride (TG) levels in Han peoples than the G allele non-carriers. Subgroup analyses showed that the G allele carriers had lower HDL-C levels in both Maonan males and females; and lower apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 levels and the ApoA1/ApoB ratio in Han males than the G allele non-carriers. Serum lipid parameters in the two ethnic groups were also associated with several environmental factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study reveals that there may be a racial/ethnic- and/or gender-specific association between the APOA1 rs964184 SNP and serum lipid parameters in our study populations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered.

Association of the LIPC rs1532085 SNP and serum lipid traits in the Chinese Maonan and Han populations

The hepatic lipase gene (LIPC) is known to play an important role in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism pathways, but the association of the LIPC rs1532085 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and serum lipid profiles has not been previously reported in different racial/ethnic groups. The present study was to detect the association of the LIPC rs1532085 SNP and several environmental factors with serum lipid levels in the Maonan and Han populations. Genotypes of the LIPC rs1532085 SNP in 833 individuals of Maonan nationality and 801 participants of Han nationality were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. The frequencies of AA, AG, and GG genotypes were 22.34%, 47.70%, and 29.96% in Han, and 24.96%, 51.38%, and 23.64% in Maonan populations (P < 0.05). The frequency of the G allele was 53.80% in Han and 49.33% in Maonan individuals (P < 0.05). The G allele carriers had lower total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), Apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 and ApoB levels in Han than the G allele non-carriers, but not in Maonan. Subgroup analyses indicated that the G allele carriers had lower TC, TG, LDL-C and ApoA1 levels in Han females than the G allele non-carriers (P < 0.05-0.001). Serum lipid parameters in the two ethnic groups were also associated with several environmental factors. These findings revealed that there might be a racial/ethnic- and/or sex-specific association between the LIPC rs1532085 SNP and serum lipid parameters in some populations.

Effects of a Standard American Diet and an anti-inflammatory diet in male and female mice

BACKGROUND

Obesity and chronic pain are prevalent concerns. Pain is frequently experienced in weight-bearing joints, but is common in other areas of the body as well, suggesting other factors. Poor diet often contributes to obesity and can directly influence the immune system. We have shown that poor diet prolongs recovery from inflammatory injury. Therefore, our goal was to determine whether poor-quality diet-induced consequences could be prevented or reversed by an anti-inflammatory diet (AID).

METHODS

A Standard American Diet (SAD) was developed to investigate the effects of poor diet on pain. The SAD includes amounts of refined sugar, carbohydrates and fats that better model the typical American diet, as compared to high-fat diets. We developed an AID to explore whether the effects of the SAD could reverse or whether the AID would enhance recovery prophylactically. The AID was developed using ingredients (epigallocatechin gallate, sulforaphane, resveratrol, curcumin and ginseng) with known anti-inflammatory properties. Following 15 weeks of diet [SAD, AID or regular (REG)] exposure, male and female mice underwent inflammatory injury, at which point some animals had their diets switched for the remainder of the study.

RESULTS

Animals who consumed the SAD showed longer recovery compared to the AID- and REG-fed animals. Animals switched off the SAD had faster recovery times, with AID-fed animals recovering as fast as REG-fed animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor diet prolonged recovery from inflammatory injury. Substitution of SAD with AID or REG promoted faster recovery. These findings suggest diet can be used as a non-pharmacological intervention following injury.

SIGNIFICANCE

Obesity may increase susceptibility to chronic pain often due to poor diet. Diet has potential to be used as treatment for pain. This study investigates the use of a novel translatable diet to act as a preventative (i.e. prior to surgery) or an intervention (i.e. following an injury).

Does dietary fat affect inflammatory markers in overweight and obese individuals?-a review of randomized controlled trials from 2010 to 2016

Background

Obesity, a major cause of death and disability, is increasing worldwide. Obesity is characterized by a chronic, low-grade inflammatory state which is suggested to play a critical role in the development of obesity-related diseases like cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. In fact, in the hours following consumption of a meal, a transient increase in inflammatory markers occurs, a response that is exaggerated in obese subjects. Dietary composition, including content of dietary fatty acids, may affect this inflammatory response both acutely and chronically, and thereby be predictive of progression of disease. The aim of the review was to summarize the literature from 2010 to 2016 regarding the effects of dietary fat intake on levels of inflammatory markers in overweight and obesity in human randomized controlled trials.

Methods and results

We performed a literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed databases. The literature search included human randomized controlled trials, both postprandial and long-term interventions, from January 2010 to September 2016. In total, 37 articles were included. Interventions with dairy products, vegetable oils, or nuts showed minor effects on inflammatory markers. The most consistent inflammatory-mediating effects were found in intervention with whole diets, which suggests that many components of the diet reduce inflammation synergistically. Furthermore, interventions with weight reduction and different fatty acids did not clearly show beneficial effects on inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

Most interventions showed either no or minor effects of dietary fat intake on inflammatory markers in overweight and obese subjects. To progress our understanding on how diet and dietary components affect our health, mechanistic studies are required. Hence, future studies should include whole diets and characterization of obese phenotypes at a molecular level, including omics data and gut microbiota.

The SRGAP2 SNPs, their haplotypes and G × E interactions on serum lipid traits

Maonan nationality is a relatively conservative and isolated minority in China. Little is known about the association of the Slit-Robo Rho GTPase activating protein 2 gene (SRGAP2) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and serum lipid levels in the Chinese populations. This study was performed to clarify the association of the SRGAP2 rs2483058 and rs2580520 SNPs and their haplotypes with serum lipid traits in the Maonan and Han populations. Genotyping of the 2 SNPs was performed in 2444 unrelated subjects (Han, 1210 and Maonan, 1234) by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism combined with gel electrophoresis, and then confirmed by direct sequencing. The allelic (rs2483058) and genotypic (rs2483058 and rs2580520) frequencies were different between the two ethnic groups. Four haplotypes were identified in our populations, and the rs2483058G-rs2580520C haplotype was the commonest one. The rs2483058C-rs2580520G haplotype was associated with an increased risk of dyslipidemia, and showed consistent association with serum total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 levels, and the ApoA1/ApoB ratio. These results indicated that the SRGAP2 SNPs and their haplotypes were associated with serum lipid levels. Their haplotypes can explain much more serum lipid variation than any single SNP alone, especially for serum TC, HDL-C and ApoA1 levels.

Association between the MVK and MMAB polymorphisms and serum lipid levels

Maonan ethnic group is a relatively conservative and isolated minority in China. Little is known about the association of the mevalonate kinase (MVK), methylmalonic aciduria (cobalamin deficiency) cblB type (MMAB) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and serum lipid levels. This study aimed to determine the association between four SNPs in the MVK/MMAB and serum lipid levels. Genotyping of the rs3759387, rs877710, rs7134594 and rs9593 SNPs was performed in 1264 Maonan subjects and 1251 Han participants. Allele and genotype frequencies of the selected SNPs were different between the two populations (P < 0.05-0.001). Four SNPs were associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the both ethnic groups (P < 0.0125-0.001); and one SNP with apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 (rs7134594) in Han Chinese (P <0.0125). Strong linkage disequilibria were noted among the SNPs (D'=0.63-0.96; r² =0.13-0.88). The commonest haplotype was C-C-C-T (> 50%). The frequencies of C-C-C-T, C-G-T-A, A-G-T-A, C-G-C-T, and A-C-T-A were different between the two populations (P <0.001). The associations between haplotypes and dyslipidemia were different in the Han and/or Maonan population (P < 0.05-0.001), haplotypes could explain much more serum lipid variation than any single SNP alone especially for HDL-C. Differences in lipid profiles between the two populations might partially attribute to these SNPs and their haplotypes.

The IL-6 Gene Promoter SNP and Plasma IL-6 in Response to Diet Intervention

We recently reported that interleukin-6 (IL-6), an inflammatory marker associated with breast pathology and the development of breast cancer, decreases with diet intervention and weight loss in both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant obese women. Here, we tested whether an individual’s genotype at an IL6 SNP, rs1800795, which has previously been associated with circulating IL-6 levels, contributes to changes in IL-6 levels or modifies the effect of diet composition on IL-6 in these women. We genotyped rs1800795 in overweight/obese women (N = 242) who were randomly assigned to a lower fat (20% energy), higher carbohydrate (65% energy) diet; a lower carbohydrate (45% energy), higher fat (35% energy) diet; or a walnut-rich (18% energy), higher fat (35% energy), lower carbohydrate (45% energy) diet in a 1-year weight loss intervention study of obesity-related biomarkers for breast cancer incidence and mortality. Plasma IL-6 levels were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months. At baseline, individuals with a CC genotype had significantly lower IL-6 levels than individuals with either a GC or GG genotype (p < 0.03; 2.72 pg/mL vs. 2.04 pg/mL), but this result was not significant when body mass index (BMI) was accounted for; the CC genotype group had lower BMI (p = 0.03; 32.5 kg/m² vs. 33.6 kg/m²). We did not observe a 2-way interaction of time*rs1800795 genotype or diet*rs1800795 genotype. Our findings provide evidence that rs1800795 is associated with IL-6 levels, but do not support a differential interaction effect of rs1800795 and diet composition or time on changes in circulating IL-6 levels. Diet intervention and weight loss are an important strategy for reducing plasma IL-6, a risk factor of breast cancer in women, regardless of their rs1800795 genotype.

Changes in Adiposity and Body Composition during Anemia Recovery with Goat or Cow Fermented Milks

To date, no studies are available about adipose tissue modifications during anemia recovery; therefore, the aim of this study is to provide detailed information about adipose tissue homeostasis during anemia recovery with fermented milks. Forty male Wistar rats were placed on a pre-experimental period of 40 days, divided in two groups (normal-Fe diet and Fe-deficient diet). Then rats were fed fermented goat or cow milk-based diets with normal-Fe content during 30 days. Ghrelin and adiponectin decreased in both groups of animals fed fermented goat milk, whereas leptin and NEFA increased. UCP-1 decreased in anemic rats fed either fermented milk, and irisin greatly increased in both groups of animals fed fermented goat milk. Fermented goat milk reduces adiposity, inducing leptin elevation and ghrelin reduction. Conversely, plasma adiponectin concentrations decreased in animals fed fermented goat milk, showing an inverse correlation with NEFA, an important marker of lipid mobilization, indicating increased lipolysis. Irisin up-regulation in animals fed fermented goat milk contributes to a favorable metabolic profile and the browning of adipose tissue during anemia recovery.

Interorgan cross talk between fatty acid metabolism, tissue inflammation, and FADS2 genotype in humans with obesity

OBJECTIVE

Fatty acid (FA) composition affects obesity-associated low-grade inflammation. It has been shown that the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) 2 gene polymorphism associates with FA metabolism and adipose tissue (AT) inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between FA metabolism and inflammation in different tissues and the possible interorgan cross talk.

METHODS

Cross-sectional baseline data from 155 individuals with obesity (both male and female) participating in the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass operation in the ongoing Kuopio Obesity Surgery Study were used. Gas chromatograph for FA composition, liver histology, and targeted RNA expression for gene expression profile were performed.

RESULTS

It was demonstrated that the saturated fatty acid (SFA) proportion in AT correlated positively with inflammation in subcutaneous AT (SAT) and visceral AT (VAT) but not in the liver, while the monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) proportion in SAT and VAT correlated negatively with AT inflammation. Notably, there was a positive correlation between AT n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), but not AT SFAs or MUFAs, and liver inflammation. This correlation was modified by the FADS2 genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

The AT FA profile relates with AT inflammation. Additionally, there seems to be a complex interaction, partly regulated by the FADS2 genotype, regulating the interaction between FAs in AT and liver inflammation.

Genetic variation and exercise-induced muscle damage: implications for athletic performance, injury and ageing

Prolonged unaccustomed exercise involving muscle lengthening (eccentric) actions can result in ultrastructural muscle disruption, impaired excitation-contraction coupling, inflammation and muscle protein degradation. This process is associated with delayed onset muscle soreness and is referred to as exercise-induced muscle damage. Although a certain amount of muscle damage may be necessary for adaptation to occur, excessive damage or inadequate recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage can increase injury risk, particularly in older individuals, who experience more damage and require longer to recover from muscle damaging exercise than younger adults. Furthermore, it is apparent that inter-individual variation exists in the response to exercise-induced muscle damage, and there is evidence that genetic variability may play a key role. Although this area of research is in its infancy, certain gene variations, or polymorphisms have been associated with exercise-induced muscle damage (i.e. individuals with certain genotypes experience greater muscle damage, and require longer recovery, following strenuous exercise). These polymorphisms include ACTN3 (R577X, rs1815739), TNF (-308 G>A, rs1800629), IL6 (-174 G>C, rs1800795), and IGF2 (ApaI, 17200 G>A, rs680). Knowing how someone is likely to respond to a particular type of exercise could help coaches/practitioners individualise the exercise training of their athletes/patients, thus maximising recovery and adaptation, while reducing overload-associated injury risk. The purpose of this review is to provide a critical analysis of the literature concerning gene polymorphisms associated with exercise-induced muscle damage, both in young and older individuals, and to highlight the potential mechanisms underpinning these associations, thus providing a better understanding of exercise-induced muscle damage.

Expression and Sequence Variants of Inflammatory Genes; Effects on Plasma Inflammation Biomarkers Following a 6-Week Supplementation with Fish Oil

(1) BACKGROUND: A growing body of literature suggest that polymorphisms (SNPs) from inflammation-related genes could possibly play a role in cytokine production and then interact with dietary n-3 fatty acids (FAs) to modulate inflammation. The aim of the present study was to test whether gene expression of selected inflammatory genes was altered following an n-3 PUFA supplementation and to test for gene-diet interactions modulating plasma inflammatory biomarker levels. (2) METHODS: 191 subjects completed a 6-week n-3 FA supplementation with 5 g/day of fish oil. Gene expression of TNF-α and IL6 was assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using the TaqMan technology. Genotyping of 20 SNPs from the TNF-LTA gene cluster, IL1β, IL6 and CRP genes was performed. (3) RESULTS: There was no significant reduction of plasma IL-6, TNF-α and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels after the 6-week fish oil supplementation. TNF-α and IL6 were slightly overexpressed in PBMCs after the supplementation (fold changes of 1.05 ± 0.38 and 1.18 ± 0.49, respectively (n = 191)), but relative quantification (RQ) within the -0.5 to 2.0 fold are considered as nonbiologically significant. In a MIXED model for repeated measures adjusted for the effects of age, sex and BMI, gene by supplementation interaction effects were observed for rs1143627, rs16944, rs1800797, and rs2069840 on IL6 levels, for rs2229094 on TNF-α levels and for rs1800629 on CRP levels (p < 0.05 for all). (4) CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that a 6-week n-3 FA supplementation with 5 g/day of fish oil did not alter gene expression levels of TNF-α and IL6 in PBMCs and did not have an impact on inflammatory biomarker levels. However, gene-diet interactions were observed between SNPs within inflammation-related genes modulating plasma inflammatory biomarker levels.

Association between the DOCK7, PCSK9 and GALNT2 Gene Polymorphisms and Serum Lipid levels

This study was to determine the association between several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the dedicator of cytokinesis 7 (DOCK7), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (GALNT2) and serum lipid levels. Genotyping of 9 SNPs was performed in 881 Jing subjects and 988 Han participants. Allele and genotype frequencies of the detected SNPs were different between the two populations. Several SNPs were associated with triglyceride (TG, rs10889332, rs615563, rs7552841, rs1997947, rs2760537, rs4846913 and rs11122316), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (rs1997947), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (rs1168013 and rs7552841), apolipoprotein (Apo) A1 (rs1997947), ApoB (rs10889332 and rs7552841), and ApoA1/ApoB ratio (rs7552841) in Jing minority; and with TG (rs10889332, rs615563, rs7552841, rs11206517, rs1997947, rs4846913 and rs11122316), HDL cholesterol (rs11206517 and rs4846913), LDL cholesterol (rs1168013), ApoA1 (rs11206517 and rs4846913), ApoB (rs7552841), and ApoA1/ApoB ratio (rs4846913) in Han nationality. Strong linkage disequilibria were noted among the SNPs. The commonest haplotype was G-C-G-C-T-G-C-C-G (>10%). The frequencies of C-C-G-C-T-G-T-C-G, G-C-A-C-T-G-C-C-G, G-C-G-C-T-A-C-C-A, G-C-G-C-T-G-C-C-A, G-C-G-C-T-G-T-C-A haplotypes were different between the two populations. Haplotypes could explain much more serum lipid variation than any single SNP alone especially for TG. Differences in lipid profiles between the two populations might partially attribute to these SNPs and their haplotypes.

The association between altered lipid profile and suicide attempt among Tunisian patients with schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

There have been many studies on psychiatric disorders, but very little is known about the biology of suicide with schizophrenia. In the present study, we are looking for a possible connection between altered lipid profile and suicidal behavior in schizophrenic Tunisian patients.

METHODS

Assay of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglycerides (TG) has been done for 126 schizophrenic patients with and without suicide attempts and 131 healthy controls recruited in the University Hospital of Monastir.

RESULTS

TC and LDL-c levels were significantly higher in schizophrenic patients compared to controls. TC was significantly lower in schizophrenic patients with suicide attempt compared to those without suicide attempt. Depending to the sonority of suicide attempt, TC was significantly lower in patients with recent suicide attempt compared to those with lifetime suicide attempt and without suicide attempt (p < 0.001), and no significant differences between TG, LDL-c, and HDL-c were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study showed that TC levels in schizophrenic patients after a recent suicide attempt are significantly lower than in patients without suicide attempt and with lifetime suicide attempts. TC can be one of biological markers defined suicidal risk for schizophrenic patients.

Modulation of C-reactive protein and plasma omega-6 fatty acid levels by phospholipase A2 gene polymorphisms following a 6-week supplementation with fish oil

This clinical trial investigated the impact of a six-week supplementation with fish oil and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in PLA2G4A and PLA2G6 genes on total omega-6 fatty acid (n-6 FA) levels in plasma phospholipids (PL) and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in 191 subjects. Interaction effects between SNPs and supplementation modulated total n-6 FAs and CRP levels in both men and women. Associations between SNPs and total n-6 FA levels and between SNPs and CRP levels were identified in men, independently of supplementation. Supplementation decreased total n-6 FAs without affecting plasma CRP levels. Changes in CRP levels correlated positively with changes in total n-6 FAs in men (r=0.25 p=0.01), but not in women. In conclusion, total n-6 FA levels in plasma PL and plasma CRP levels are modulated by SNPs within PLA2G4A and PLA2G6 genes alone or in combination with fish oil supplementation.

FADS2 genotype regulates delta-6 desaturase activity and inflammation in human adipose tissue

Obesity is associated with disturbed lipid metabolism and low-grade inflammation in tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between FA metabolism and adipose tissue (AT) inflammation in the Kuopio Obesity Surgery study. We investigated the association of surgery-induced weight loss and FA desaturase (FADS)1/2 genotypes with serum and AT FA profile and with AT inflammation, measured as interleukin (IL)-1β and NFκB pathway gene expression, in order to find potential gene-environment interactions. We demonstrated an association between serum levels of saturated and polyunsaturated n-6 FAs, and estimated enzyme activities of FADS1/2 genes with IL-1β expression in AT both at baseline and at follow-up. Variation in the FADS1/2 genes associated with IL-1β and NFκB pathway gene expression in SAT after weight reduction, but not at baseline. In addition, the FA composition in subcutaneous and visceral fat correlated with serum FAs, and the associations between serum PUFAs and estimated D6D enzyme activity with AT inflammation were also replicated with corresponding AT FAs and AT inflammation. We conclude that the polymorphism in FADS1/2 genes associates with FA metabolism and AT inflammation, leading to an interaction between weight loss and FADS1/2 genes in the regulation of AT inflammation.

Total Western Diet Alters Mechanical and Thermal Sensitivity and Prolongs Hypersensitivity Following Complete Freund's Adjuvant in Mice

Obesity and chronic pain are often comorbid and their rates are increasing. It is unknown whether increased pain is caused by greater weight or poor diet quality or both. Therefore, we utilized a Total Western Diet (TWD) to investigate the functional and physiologic consequences of nutritionally poor diet in mice. For 13 weeks on the commercially available TWD, based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, thresholds of TWD-fed mice significantly increased in both thermal and mechanical tests. Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging revealed a significant increase in fat mass with a concomitant decrease in lean mass in the TWD-fed mice. In addition, there were significant increases in levels of serum leptin and inflammatory cytokines. After chronic pain induction using complete Freund's adjuvant, hypersensitivity was more pronounced and significantly prolonged in the TWD-fed mice. Therefore, prolonged exposure to poor diet quality resulted in altered acute nociceptive sensitivity, systemic inflammation, and persistent pain after inflammatory pain induction.

PERSPECTIVE

These results highlight the negative effects of poor diet quality with respect to recovery from hypersensitivity and susceptibility to chronic pain. A complete understanding of the impact of diet can aid in treatment and recovery dynamics in human clinical patients.

Interaction of SNP in the CRP gene and plasma fatty acid profile in inflammatory pattern: A cross-sectional population-based study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the interaction of three single nucleotide polymorphisms in the C-reactive protein (CRP) gene and plasma fatty acid (FA) levels in modulating inflammatory profile.

METHODS

A total of 262 subjects, aged >19 y and <60 y, participated in a cross-sectional, population-based study performed in Brazil. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs1205, rs1417938, and rs2808630) spanning the CRP gene were genotyped. Eleven plasma inflammatory biomarkers and plasma FA profile were determined. Cluster analysis was performed to stratify individuals based on eleven inflammatory biomarkers into two groups: an inflammatory (INF) and a noninflammatory group.

RESULTS

The INF cluster had higher age, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure; higher levels of triacylglycerol, high-sensitivity CRP, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-12, IL-10, soluble monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, C16:0, polyunsaturated fatty acid, and omega (n)-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid; and greater C20:4n-6, C18:1/18:0, and C20:4/20:3 ratios than the noninflammatory group. Statistically significant gene-plasma C16:1n-7 interaction was detected for rs1417938 (P = 0.047). Those with a dominant homozygous rs2808630 had a lower risk of belonging to the INF group with the upper 50th percentile of C20:4n-6, n-3 highly unsaturated FA, and C20:4/20:3 ratio. Regarding rs1205, A allele carriers had lower risk of being in the INF group when C20:5n-3 and n-3 highly unsaturated FA levels were greater than the median.

CONCLUSIONS

The INF group exhibited changes in metabolic parameters that predispose this group to chronic disease, where polymorphisms in the CRP gene modulated the risk of being in the INF group depending on individual plasma fatty acid and lipid profile.

Effects of a Mediterranean Diet Intervention on Anti- and Pro-Inflammatory Eicosanoids, Epithelial Proliferation, and Nuclear Morphology in Biopsies of Normal Colon Tissue

This randomized trial evaluated the effects of intervention with either a Healthy Eating or a Mediterranean diet on colon biomarkers in 120 healthy individuals at increased colon cancer risk. The hypothesis was that eicosanoids and markers of proliferation would be favorably affected by the Mediterranean diet. Colon epithelial biopsy tissues and blood samples were obtained at baseline and after 6 mo of intervention. Colonic eicosanoid concentrations were evaluated by HPLC-MS-MS, and measures of epithelial proliferation and nuclear morphology were evaluated by image analysis of biopsy sections. There was little change in proinflammatory eicosanoids and in plasma cytokine concentrations with either dietary intervention. There was, however, a 50% increase in colonic prostaglandin E3 (PGE3), which is formed from eicosapentanoic acid, in the Mediterranean arm. Unlike PGE2, PGE3, was not significantly affected by regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at baseline, and normal weight subjects had significantly higher colon PGE3 than overweight or obese subjects. Increased proliferation in the colon at baseline, by Ki67 labeling, was associated with morphological features that defined smaller nuclei in the epithelial cells, lower colon leukotriene concentrations and higher plasma cytokine concentrations. Dietary intervention had little effect on measures of epithelial proliferation or of nuclear morphology. The increase in PGE3 with a Mediterranean diet indicates that in normal colon, diet might affect protective pathways to a greater extent than proinflammatory and proliferative pathways. Hence, biomarkers from cancer models might not be relevant in a true prevention setting.

Ethnic differences in the association between lipid metabolism genes and lipid levels in black and white South African women

OBJECTIVE

Dyslipidaemia can lead to the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD), however its prevalence has been shown to differ between ethnic groups in South Africa (SA). Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate ethnic differences in the association between serum lipid levels and polymorphisms within genes involved in lipid metabolism in black and white SA women.

METHODS

In a convenient sample of 234 white and 209 black SA women of Xhosa ancestry, body composition (DXA) and fasting serum lipids were measured. Participants were genotyped for the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP, rs708272, B1/B2), lipoprotein lipase (LPL, rs328, S/X), hepatic lipase (LIPC, rs1800588, C/T) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9, rs28362286, C/X) polymorphisms.

RESULTS

Compared to white women, black women had lower concentrations of serum total cholesterol (TC, P < 0.001), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, P < 0.001), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, P < 0.001) and triglycerides (TG, P < 0.001). There were significant differences in the genotype and allele frequency distributions between black and white women for the LPL S/X (P < 0.001), PCSK9 C679X (P = 0.002) and LIPC 514C/T (P < 0.001) polymorphisms. In black women only, there were genotype effects on serum lipid levels. Specifically, women with the LPL SX genotype had lower TC and LDL-C and higher HDL-C concentrations than those with the SS genotype and women with the CETP B2 allele had lower LDL-C concentrations than those with the B1B1 genotype.

CONCLUSION

Polymorphisms within the LPL and CETP genes were associated with a more protective lipid profile in black, but not white SA women. This supports the hypothesis that the more favorable lipid profile of black compared to white SA women is associated with polymorphisms in lipid metabolism genes, specifically the LPL and CETP genes.

Female attempted suicide patients with low HDL levels are at higher risk of suicide re-attempt within the subsequent year: a clinical cohort study

Our aims were, to clarify the blood lipid differences [Total serum cholesterol (TC), High-density lipoprotein (HDL), Low density lipoprotein (LDL), Triglyceride (TG)] between female patients who had attempted suicide and controls and to determine whether we could use the patients׳ initial lipid profiles to predict suicide re-attempt within the subsequent year. A total of 284 participants (110 cases and 174 controls) were recruited, with no differences in body mass index, age, blood sampling time and gender. Blood samples were collected from all participants for serum lipid profiles and assayed in an auto-analyzer. We divided the suicide re-attempter group into suicide attempters in the subsequent year (SSY) and suicide attempters after the subsequent year (SASY). The TC, LDL, and TG levels were significantly lower in the suicidal group than in the control group. HDL was significantly higher in the suicidal group than in the control group. Low TG (<70mg/dL) (OR (odds ratio)=12.8; 95% CI (confidence interval)=5.4-30.5; p<0.0001)and low LDL/HDL (<1.8) (OR=4.1; 95% CI=1.8-9.3; p=0.001) were significantly associated with a current suicide attempt. HDL levels in the SSY (41.5±4.5mg/dL) were lower than in the non-suicide attempters group (NSA) (50.9±10.3mg/dL) and SASY (58.7±12.8mg/dL)(d.f.=2, F=5.2, p=0.007). Serum HDL level may be a potential candidate predictor for the future risk of suicidality.

Intermuscular and intramuscular adipose tissues: Bad vs. good adipose tissues

Human studies of the influence of aging and other factors on intermuscular fat (INTMF) were reviewed. Intermuscular fat increased with weight loss, weight gain, or with no weight change with age in humans. An increase in INTMF represents a similar threat to type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance as does visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Studies of INTMF in animals covered topics such as quantitative deposition and genetic relationships with other fat depots. The relationship between leanness and higher proportions of INTMF fat in pigs was not observed in human studies and was not corroborated by other pig studies. In humans, changes in muscle mass, strength and quality are associated with INTMF accretion with aging. Gene expression profiling and intrinsic methylation differences in pigs demonstrated that INTMF and VAT are primarily associated with inflammatory and immune processes. It seems that in the pig and humans, INTMF and VAT share a similar pattern of distribution and a similar association of components dictating insulin sensitivity. Studies on intramuscular (IM) adipocyte development in meat animals were reviewed. Gene expression analysis and genetic analysis have identified candidate genes involved in IM adipocyte development. Intramuscular (IM) adipocyte development in human muscle is only seen during aging and some pathological circumstance. Several genetic links between human and meat animal adipogenesis have been identified. In pigs, the Lipin1 and Lipin 2 gene have strong genetic effects on IM accumulation. Lipin1 deficiency results in immature adipocyte development in human lipodystrophy. In humans, overexpression of Perilipin 2 (PLIN2) facilitates intramyocellular lipid accretion whereas in pigs PLIN2 gene expression is associated with IM deposition. Lipins and perilipins may influence intramuscular lipid regardless of species.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha -308 G>A polymorphism, adherence to Mediterranean diet, and risk of overweight/obesity in young women

The present study was conducted in order to (i) characterize the adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) pattern and fatty acids (FAs) intakes and (ii) explore interactions between TNFA −308 G>A polymorphism and adherence to MD and FAs intakes, respectively, on overweight/obesity risk. From 2010 to 2013, 380 healthy women were enrolled, and MD score (MDS) and FAs intakes were evaluated by a Food Frequencies Questionnaire in relation to nutritional status. TNFA −308 G/A polymorphism was characterized using PCR-RFLP. A total of 32.6% of women were overweight or obese. Lower mean MDS values were more observed in the younger age group than in the older age group (3.60 versus 4.45). The risk of being overweight/obese was 3.5-fold increased due to poor adherence to MD and was about twofold increased in less educated women. Furthermore, younger age was associated with poor adherence to MD. No evidence for an independent effect of the polymorphism on overweight/obesity risk was found. There was no evidence of biological interaction from the gene-diet interaction analyses. Young women, less educated and with poor adherence to MD, are a target group for the nutritional interventions that aimed to control the obesity risk, thus improving the adherence to MD and particularly the intake of unsaturated FAs.

Polymorphism of rs873308 near the transmembrane protein 57 gene is associated with serum lipid levels

SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) of rs10903129 near the TMEM (transmembrane protein) 57 locus has been associated with TC (total cholesterol) in a previous GWAS (genome-wide association study), but the association of TMEM57 rs873308 SNP and serum lipid levels has not been previously reported. The current study was undertaken to detect the association of the TMEM57 rs873308 SNP and several environmental factors with serum lipid profiles in the Han Chinese and Mulao populations. The genotypes of the TMEM57 rs873308 SNP in 865 individuals of Han Chinese and 902 participants of Mulao nationality were determined by PCR and RFLP (restriction-fragment-length polymorphism) combined with gel electrophoresis and then confirmed by direct sequencing. The T allele frequency of TMEM57 rs873308 SNP was not different between Han and Mulao (23.18% versus 25.72%, P>0.05), but different between males and females in the two ethnic groups (P<0.05). The T allele carriers had lower serum TC, Apo (apolipoprotein) B, HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels, ApoA1/ApoB ratio in Han; and lower TAG (triacylglycerol), LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), ApoA1 levels and the ApoA1/ApoB ratio and higher HDL-C levels in Mulao than the T allele non-carriers. There was also different association of the TMEM57 rs873308 SNP and serum lipid profiles between males and females in the both ethnic groups. Serum lipid parameters in the two ethnic groups were also associated with several environmental factors. The association of the TMEM57 rs873308 SNP and serum lipid levels was different in the Han Chinese and Mulao populations and between males and females in the both ethnic groups. There may be a sex-specific association of the TMEM57 rs873308 SNP and serum lipid levels in our study populations.

Novel regulatory roles of omega-3 fatty acids in metabolic pathways: a proteomics approach

Background

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) have been shown to alleviate the symptoms of metabolic disorders, such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity and insulin resistance. Several putative mechanisms by which n-3 PUFA elicit beneficial health effects have been proposed; however, there is still a shortage of knowledge on the proteins and pathways that are regulated by n-3 PUFA.

Methods

Using two dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, we investigated the effects of diets high or low in n-3 PUFA on hepatic proteomic profile of C57BL/6 mice.

Results

The findings show for the first time that high dietary n-3 PUFA reduced the expression of regucalcin, adenosine kinase and aldehyde dehydrogenase. On the other hand, diets high in n-3 PUFA increased the expression of apolipoprotein A-I, S-adenosylmethionine synthase, fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase, ketohexokinase, malate dehydrogenase, GTP-specific succinyl CoA synthase, ornithine aminotransferase and protein disulfide isomerase-A3.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed for the first time that n-3 PUFA causes alterations in several novel functional proteins involved in regulating lipid, carbohydrate, one-carbon, citric acid cycle and protein metabolism, suggesting integrated regulation of metabolic pathways. These novel proteins are potential targets to develop therapeutic strategies against metabolic disorders.