Obesity and chronic inflammation crosslinking

A systematic review on the applicability of cell-free DNA level as an obesity biomarker

Obesity has become a global health concern in recent decades. Utilizing biomarkers presents a promising approach to comprehensively monitor the progress of obesity and its associated health conditions. This review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the correlation between cfDNA level and obesity and to provide insights into the applicability of using cfDNA level as a tool for monitoring progression of obesity. Searches were performed in PubMed and Embase on April 1, 2022. Data and other relevant information were extracted and compiled into a structured table for further analysis. Among 1170 articles screened, 11 articles were included in this review and assessed qualitatively. The results demonstrated that existing evidence mainly focused on three populations, including healthy individuals, cancer patients and pregnant women. Majority of the studies on healthy individuals identified a significant association between cfDNA level and body weight status but not among cancer patients. Varying results were observed among pregnant women at different gestational trimesters. Our review summarized some preliminary evidence on the association between cfDNA level and obesity. More cohort studies in larger scale with comprehensive assessment have to be conducted to examine the applicability of cfDNA as a biomarker for severity and disease progression of obesity.

Deciphering the complex interplay of obesity, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and tight junction remodeling: Unraveling potential therapeutic avenues

Obesity stands as a formidable global health challenge, predisposing individuals to a plethora of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. A confluence of genetic polymorphisms, suboptimal dietary choices, and sedentary lifestyles significantly contribute to the elevated incidence of obesity. This multifaceted health issue profoundly disrupts homeostatic equilibrium at both organismal and cellular levels, with marked alterations in gut permeability as a salient consequence. The intricate mechanisms underlying these alterations have yet to be fully elucidated. Still, evidence suggests that heightened inflammatory cytokine levels and the remodeling of tight junction (TJ) proteins, particularly claudins, play a pivotal role in the manifestation of epithelial barrier dysfunction in obesity. Strategic targeting of proteins implicated in these pathways and metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids presents a promising intervention for restoring barrier functionality among individuals with obesity. Nonetheless, recognizing the heterogeneity among affected individuals is paramount; personalized medical interventions or dietary regimens tailored to specific genetic backgrounds and allergy profiles may prove indispensable. This comprehensive review delves into the nexus of obesity, tight junction remodeling, and barrier dysfunction, offering a critical appraisal of potential therapeutic interventions.

The Interplay between Obesity and Inflammation

Obesity is an important condition affecting the quality of life of numerous patients and increasing their associated risk for multiple diseases, including tumors and immune-mediated disorders. Inflammation appears to play a major role in the development of obesity and represents a central point for the activity of cellular and humoral components in the adipose tissue. Macrophages play a key role as the main cellular component of the adipose tissue regulating the chronic inflammation and modulating the secretion and differentiation of various pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation also involves a series of signaling pathways that might represent the focus for new therapies and interventions. Weight loss is essential in decreasing cardiometabolic risks and the degree of associated inflammation; however, the latter can persist for long after the excess weight is lost, and can involve changes in macrophage phenotypes that can ensure the metabolic adjustment. A clear understanding of the pathophysiological processes in the adipose tissue and the interplay between obesity and chronic inflammation can lead to a better understanding of the development of comorbidities and may ensure future targets for the treatment of obesity.

High-dose oral contraceptives induce hyperinsulinemia without altering immune activation in diet-induced obesity which persists even following a dietary low-fat diet intervention

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are known to cause weight gain and alter metabolic and immunological pathways. However, modifications in arterial or venous thrombotic risk profiles of women of reproductive ages on COC remain unclear. The study aimed at assessing the impact of COC on immune activation in diet-induced obesity. We further established whether the dietary intervention of switching from a high-fat diet (HFD) to a low-fat diet (LFD) attenuates immunological responses. Twenty (n=20) five-week-old female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into two diet groups of HFD (n=15) and LFD (n=5) and were monitored for eight weeks. After eight weeks, animals in the HFD group switched diets to LFD and were randomly assigned to receive high-dose COC (HCOC) or low-dose COC (LCOC) for six weeks. Animals on HFD significantly gained weight and had a higher lee index when compared to the LFD group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the triglyceride-glucose index, insulin, and other metabolic parameters also increased in the HFD group compared to the LFD group (p < 0.001). Consistently, the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were elevated in the HFD group when compared to the LFD group (p < 0.05). Upon switching from a high-fat to a low-fat diet, insulin levels persistently increased in animals receiving HCOC treatment compared to the LFD and HFD/LFD groups (p < 0.05). Thus, in a rat model of HFD-feeding, short-term HCOC treatment induces long-term metabolic dysregulation, which persists despite dietary intervention. However, further studies are recommended to confirm these findings.

The role of peripheral white blood cell counts in the association between central adiposity and glycemic status

AIMS

Although central adiposity is a well-known risk factor for diabetes, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the potential mediation role of circulating WBC counts in the association between central adiposity and the risk of diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Fuqing cohort study, which included 6,613 participants aged 35-75 years. Logistic regression analysis and Spearman's rank correlation analysis were used to examine the relationships between waist-to-hip ratio, WBC counts and glycemic status. Both simple and parallel multiple mediation models were used to explore the potential mediation effects of WBCs on the association of waist-to-hip ratio with diabetes.

RESULTS

The study revealed a positive relationship between waist-to-hip ratio and risk of prediabetes (OR = 1.53; 95% CI, 1.35 to 1.74) and diabetes (OR = 2.89; 95% CI, 2.45 to 3.40). Moreover, elevated peripheral WBC counts were associated with both central adiposity and worsening glycemic status (P < 0.05). The mediation analysis with single mediators demonstrated that there is a significant indirect effect of central adiposity on prediabetes risk through total WBC count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and monocyte count; the proportions mediated were 9.92%, 6.98%, 6.07%, and 3.84%, respectively. Additionally, total WBC count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, monocyte count and basophil count mediated 11.79%, 11.51%, 6.29%, 4.78%, and 1.76%, respectively, of the association between central adiposity and diabetes. In the parallel multiple mediation model using all five types of WBC as mediators simultaneously, a significant indirect effect (OR = 1.09; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.14) were observed, with a mediated proportion of 12.77%.

CONCLUSIONS

Central adiposity was independently associated with an elevated risk of diabetes in a Chinese adult population; levels of circulating WBC may contribute to its underlying mechanisms.

Profiling the Gut Microbiota in Obese Children with Formula Feeding in Early Life and Selecting Strains against Obesity

Formula feeding, obesity and the gut microbiota are closely related. The present investigation explored the profiles of the intestinal microbiota in obese children over 5 years old with formula feeding in early life. We identified functional bacteria with anti-obesity potential through in vitro and in vivo experiments, elucidating their mechanisms. The results indicated that, in the group of children over 5 years old who were fed formula in early life, obese children exhibited distinct gut microbiota, which were characterized by diminished species diversity and reduced Bifidobacterium levels compared to normal-weight children. As a result, Lactobacillus acidophilus H-68 (H-68) was isolated from the feces of the N-FF group and recognized as a promising candidate. H-68 demonstrated the ability to stimulate cholecystokinin (CCK) secretion in STC-1 cells and produce bile salt hydrolase. In vivo, H-68 promoted CCK secretion, suppressing food intake, and regulated bile acid enterohepatic circulation, leading to increased deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid levels in the ileum and liver. This regulation effectively inhibited the diet-induced body weight and body fat gain, along with the liver fat deposition. In conclusion, H-68 was recognized for its prospective anti-obesity impact, signifying an auspicious pathway for forthcoming interventions targeted at averting pediatric obesity in formula-fed children.

Intermittent fasting and health outcomes: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials

Background

Benefits of Intermittent fasting (IF) on health-related outcomes have been found in a range of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Our umbrella review aimed to systematically analyze and synthesize the available causal evidence on IF and its impact on specific health-related outcomes while evaluating its evidence quality.

Methods

We comprehensively searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases (from inception up to 8 January 2024) to identify related systematic reviews and meta-analyses of RCTs investigating the association between IF and human health outcomes. We recalculated the effect sizes for each meta-analysis as mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed for populations based on three specific status: diabetes, overweight or obesity, and metabolic syndrome. The quality of systematic reviews was evaluated using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR), and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) system. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023382004).

Findings

A total of 351 associations from 23 meta-analyses with 34 health outcomes were included in the study. A wide range of outcomes were investigated, including anthropometric measures (n = 155), lipid profiles (n = 83), glycemic profiles (n = 57), circulatory system index (n = 41), appetite (n = 9), and others (n = 6). Twenty-one (91%) meta-analyses with 346 associations were rated as high confidence according to the AMSTAR criteria. The summary effects estimates were significant at p < 0.05 in 103 associations, of which 10 (10%) were supported by high certainty of evidence according to GRADE. Specifically, compared with non-intervention diet in adults with overweight or obesity, IF reduced waist circumference (WC) (MD = -1.02 cm; 95% CI: -1.99 to -0.06; p = 0.038), fat mass (MD = -0.72 kg; 95% CI: -1.32 to -0.12; p = 0.019), fasting insulin (SMD = -0.21; 95% CI: -0.40 to -0.02; p = 0.030), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (SMD = -0.20; 95% CI: -0.38 to -0.02; p = 0.027), total cholesterol (TC) (SMD = -0.29; 95% CI: -0.48 to -0.10; p = 0.003), and triacylglycerols (TG) (SMD = -0.23; 95% CI: -0.39 to -0.06; p = 0.007), but increased fat free mass (FFM) (MD = 0.98 kg; 95% CI: 0.18-1.78; p = 0.016). Of note, compared with the non-intervention diet, modified alternate-day fasting (MADF) reduced fat mass (MD = -0.70 kg; 95% CI: -1.38 to -0.02; p = 0.044). In people with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes, IF increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels compared to continuous energy restriction (CER) (MD = 0.03 mmol/L; 95% CI: 0.01-0.05; p = 0.010). However, IF was less effective at reducing systolic blood pressure (SBP) than a CER diet in adults with overweight or obesity (SMD = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.05-0.36; p = 0.008).

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that IF may have beneficial effects on a range of health outcomes for adults with overweight or obesity, compared to CER or non-intervention diet. Specifically, IF may decreased WC, fat mass, LDL-C, TG, TC, fasting insulin, and SBP, while increasing HDL-C and FFM. Notably, it is worth noting that the SBP lowering effect of IF appears to be weaker than that of CER.

Funding

This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (Q-JW), the Natural Science Foundation of China (Q-JW and T-TG), Outstanding Scientific Fund of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University (Q-JW), and 345 Talent Project of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University (T-TG).

The potential of short-chain fatty acid epigenetic regulation in chronic low-grade inflammation and obesity

Obesity and chronic low-grade inflammation, often occurring together, significantly contribute to severe metabolic and inflammatory conditions like type 2 diabetes (T2D), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer. A key player is elevated levels of gut dysbiosis-associated lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which disrupts metabolic and immune signaling leading to metabolic endotoxemia, while short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) beneficially regulate these processes during homeostasis. SCFAs not only safeguard the gut barrier but also exert metabolic and immunomodulatory effects via G protein-coupled receptor binding and epigenetic regulation. SCFAs are emerging as potential agents to counteract dysbiosis-induced epigenetic changes, specifically targeting metabolic and inflammatory genes through DNA methylation, histone acetylation, microRNAs (miRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). To assess whether SCFAs can effectively interrupt the detrimental cascade of obesity and inflammation, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence for their clinical application. The review emphasizes factors influencing SCFA production, the intricate connections between metabolism, the immune system, and the gut microbiome, and the epigenetic mechanisms regulated by SCFAs that impact metabolism and the immune system.

Salivary α-amylase activity is associated with cardiometabolic and inflammatory biomarkers in overweight/obese, non-diabetic Qatari women

Introduction

Obesity, prevalent in approximately 80% of Qatar's adult population, increases the risk of complications like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Predictive biomarkers are crucial for preventive strategies. Salivary α-amylase activity (sAAa) inversely correlates with obesity and insulin resistance in adults and children. However, the connection between sAAa and cardiometabolic risk factors or chronic low-grade inflammation markers remains unclear. This study explores the association between serum sAAa and adiposity markers related to cardiovascular diseases, as well as markers indicative of chronic low-grade inflammation.

Methods

Serum samples and clinical data of 1500 adult, non-diabetic, Overweight/Obese participants were obtained from Qatar Biobank (QBB). We quantified sAAa and C reactive protein (CRP) levels with an autoanalyzer. Cytokines, adipokines, and adiponectin of a subset of 228 samples were quantified using a bead-based multiplex assay. The associations between the sAAa and the adiposity indices and low-grade inflammatory protein CRP and multiple cytokines were assessed using Pearson's correlation and adjusted linear regression.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 36 ± 10 years for both sexes of which 76.6% are women. Our analysis revealed a significant linear association between sAAa and adiposity-associated biomarkers, including body mass index β -0.032 [95% CI -0.049 to -0.05], waist circumference β -0.05 [95% CI -0.09 to -0.02], hip circumference β -0.052 [95% CI -0.087 to -0.017], and HDL β 0.002 [95% CI 0.001 to 0.004], albeit only in women. Additionally, sAAa demonstrated a significant positive association with adiponectin β 0.007 [95% CI 0.001 to 0.01]while concurrently displaying significant negative associations with CRP β -0.02 [95% CI -0.044 to -0.0001], TNF-α β -0.105 [95% CI -0.207 to -0.004], IL-6 β [95% CI -0.39 -0.75 to -0.04], and ghrelin β -5.95 [95% CI -11.71 to -0.20], specifically within the female population.

Conclusion

Our findings delineate significant associations between sAAa and markers indicative of cardiovascular disease risk and inflammation among overweight/obese adult Qatari females. Subsequent investigations are warranted to elucidate the nuances of these gender-specific associations comprehensively.

High-fat diets promote peritoneal inflammation and augment endometriosis-associated abdominal hyperalgesia

Immune dysfunction is one of the central components in the development and progression of endometriosis by establishing a chronic inflammatory environment. Western-style high-fat diets (HFD) have been linked to greater systemic inflammation to cause metabolic and chronic inflammatory diseases, and are also considered an environmental risk factor for gynecologic diseases. Here, we aimed to examine how HFD cause an inflammatory environment in endometriosis and discern their contribution to endometriotic-associated hyperalgesia. Our results showed that HFD-induced obesity enhanced abdominal hyperalgesia that was induced by endometriotic lesions. Peritoneal inflammatory macrophages and cytokine levels increased by lesion induction were elevated by chronic exposure to HFD. Increased expression of pain-related mediators in the dorsal root ganglia was observed after lesion induction under the HFD condition. Although HFD did not affect inflammatory macrophages in the peritoneal cavity without lesion induction, the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota were clearly altered by HFD as a sign of low-grade systemic inflammation. Thus, HFD alone might not establish a local inflammatory environment in the pelvic cavity, but it can contribute to further enhancing chronic inflammation, leading to the exacerbation of endometriosis-associated abdominal hyperalgesia following the establishment and progression of the disease.

Gestational Weight Gain: Is the Role of Genetic Variants a Determinant? A Review

Excessive or insufficient gestational weight gain (GWG) leads to diverse adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. There is evidence that pregestational body mass index (pBMI) plays a role in GWG, but no genetic cause has been identified. In this review, we aim to analyze genotype variants associated with GWG. Results: We identified seven genotype variants that may be involved in GWG regulation that were analyzed in studies carried out in Brazil, Romania, the USA, Turkey, Ukraine, and Canada. Some genetic variants were only associated with GWG in certain races or depending on the pBMI. In women who were obese or overweight before gestation, some genetic variants were associated with GWG. Environmental and genetic factors together showed a greater association with GWG than genetic factors alone; for example, type of diet was observed to have a significant influence. Conclusions: We found little scientific evidence of an association between genotype variants in countries with a high prevalence of women of reproductive age who are overweight and obese, such as in Latin America. GWG may be more dependent on environmental factors than genetic variants. We suggest a deeper study of genetic variants, cytokines, and their possible association with GWG, always with the respective control of potential cofounding factors, such as pBMI, diet, and race.

Effects of physical activity levels on characteristic pain in temporomandibular dysfunctions: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Physical activity is known to influence the symptoms of a variety of pain disorders including fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis although the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. In spite of the high prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), no previous study has objectively evaluated the relationship between TMD and general physical activity. This study aims to investigate the influence of physical activity on pain and disability from TMD, considering various confounders including sleep, systemic inflammation, psychosocial disturbances, and widespread pain.

METHODS

This observational cross-sectional study is based on consecutive samples of 100 TMD patients (22 with high pain disability and 78 with low pain disability level). Physical activity levels were assessed with actigraph. Level of pain and disability were evaluated using the Graded Chronic Pain Scale. Hematologic examinations including inflammatory biomarkers were assessed and comorbidities were investigated with validated questionnaires. Differences were analyzed according to disability level.

RESULTS

Patients with high disability level spent significantly more time doing both moderate (p = 0.033) and vigorous (p = 0.039) level physical activity. Light physical activity, on the other hand, was associated with low disability but the difference did not reach statistical significance. Time spent in light physical activity was significantly associated with high levels of pain and disability (p = 0.026, β = -0.001) and time spent in vigorous physical activity had significant predictive power (cutoff value 2.5 min per week, AUC 0.643, p = 0.041). Scores of the Jaw Function Limitation Score-20 (p = 0.001), present McGill Pain Score (p = 0.010), and number of people potentially diagnosed with fibromyalgia (p = 0.033) were significantly higher in the high disability group.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate or vigorous physical activity is associated with worse TMD symptoms while light physical activity may be beneficial. Further research related to the amount and frequency of physical activity is necessary to establish clinical guidelines for TMD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinical trial registration of the Clinical Research Information Service of Republic of Korea (number KCT0007107).

High-fat diets promote peritoneal inflammation and augment endometriosis-associated abdominal hyperalgesia

Immune dysfunction is one of the central components in the development and progression of endometriosis by establishing a chronic inflammatory environment. Western-style high-fat diets (HFD) have been linked to greater systemic inflammation to cause metabolic and chronic inflammatory diseases, and are also considered an environmental risk factor for gynecologic diseases. Here, we aimed to examine how HFD alter an inflammatory environment in endometriosis and discern their contribution to endometriotic-associated hyperalgesia. Our results showed that HFD-induced obesity enhanced abdominal mechanical allodynia that was induced by endometriotic lesions. Peritoneal inflammatory macrophages and cytokine levels increased by lesion induction were elevated by chronic exposure to HFD. Pain-related mediators in the dorsal root ganglia were further stimulated after lesion induction under the HFD condition. Although HFD did not affect inflammatory macrophages in the peritoneal cavity without lesion induction, the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota were clearly altered by HFD as a sign of low-grade systemic inflammation. Thus, HFD alone might not establish a local inflammatory environment in the pelvic cavity, but it can contribute to further enhancing chronic inflammation, leading to the exacerbation of endometriosis-associated abdominal hyperalgesia following the establishment and progression of the disease.

Neuroinflammation: A Modifiable Pathway Linking Obesity, Alzheimer's disease, and Depression

Obesity, depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are three major interrelated modern health conditions with complex relationships. Early-life depression may serve as a risk factor for AD, while late-life depression may be a prodrome of AD. Depression affects approximately 23% of obese individuals, and depression itself raises the risk of obesity by 37%. Mid-life obesity independently increases AD risk, while late-life obesity, particularly metabolically healthy obesity, may offer protection against AD pathology. Chronic inflammation serves as a key mechanism linking obesity, AD, and depression, encompassing systemic inflammation from metabolic disturbances, immune dysregulation through the gut microbiome, and direct interactions with amyloid pathology and neuroinflammation. In this review, we explore the biological mechanisms of neuroinflammation in relation to obesity, AD, and depression. We assess the efficacy of therapeutic interventions targeting neuroinflammation and discuss current and future radiological imaging initiatives for studying neuroinflammation. By comprehending the intricate interplay among depression, obesity, and AD, especially the role of neuroinflammation, we can advance our understanding and develop innovative strategies for prevention and treatment.

The role of IGF-1 in exercise to improve obesity-related cognitive dysfunction

Obesity is an important factor that threatens human health. The occurrence of many chronic diseases is related to obesity, and cognitive function decline often occurs with the onset of obesity. With the further prevalence of obesity, it is bound to lead to a wider range of cognitive dysfunction (ORCD). Therefore, it is crucial to suppress ORCD through intervention. In this regard, exercise has been shown to be effective in preventing obesity and improving cognitive function as a non-drug treatment. There is sufficient evidence that exercise has a regulatory effect on a growth factor closely related to cognitive function-insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 may be an important mediator in improving ORCD through exercise. This article reviews the effects of obesity and IGF-1 on cognitive function and the regulation of exercise on IGF-1. It analyzes the mechanism by which exercise can improve ORCD by regulating IGF-1. Overall, this review provides evidence from relevant animal studies and human studies, showing that exercise plays a role in improving ORCD. It emphasizes the importance of IGF-1, which helps to understand the health effects of exercise and promotes research on the treatment of ORCD.

Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein and future Parkinson's disease risk: a European prospective cohort

INTRODUCTION

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is the outer membrane component of Gram-negative bacteria. LPS-binding protein (LBP) is an acute-phase reactant that mediates immune responses triggered by LPS and has been used as a blood marker for LPS. LBP has recently been indicated to be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) in small-scale retrospective case-control studies. We aimed to investigate the association between LBP blood levels with PD risk in a nested case-control study within a large European prospective cohort.

METHODS

A total of 352 incident PD cases (55% males) were identified and one control per case was selected, matched by age at recruitment, sex and study center. LBP levels in plasma collected at recruitment, which was on average 7.8 years before diagnosis of the cases, were analyzed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for one unit increase of the natural log of LBP levels and PD incidence by conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

Plasma LBP levels were higher in prospective PD cases compared to controls (median (interquartile range) 26.9 (18.1-41.0) vs. 24.7 (16.6-38.4) µg/ml). The OR for PD incidence per one unit increase of log LBP was elevated (1.46, 95% CI 0.98-2.19). This association was more pronounced among women (OR 2.68, 95% CI 1.40-5.13) and overweight/obese subjects (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.09-2.18).

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that higher plasma LBP levels may be associated with an increased risk of PD and may thus pinpoint to a potential role of endotoxemia in the pathogenesis of PD, particularly in women and overweight/obese individuals.

Association between Cardiovascular Health, C-Reactive Protein, and Comorbidities in Spanish Urban-Dwelling Overweight/Obese Hypertensive Patients

The relationship between poorer cardiovascular health metrics (CVHM) plus low-grade inflammation (LGI) and hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) and hypertension-related comorbidities (HRC) in hypertensive populations with an overweight/obese (Ow/Ob) hypertension-related phenotype is understudied. We examined the relationship between the CVHM score and the presence of LGI and Ow/Ob hypertension-associated phenotype morbidities and mortality in 243 hypertensive patients from an urban primary care center. We recorded the baseline CVHM score plus clinical data, including hs-C-reactive protein (CRP) and prevalent and incident HMOD-HRC and death. A total of 26 (10.7%) had a body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m², 95 (31.1%) were overweight (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m²), and 122 (50.2%) were obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²). There were 264 cases of HMOD-HRC and 9 deaths. Higher hs-CRP levels were observed as BMI increased. Linear regression analysis showed a significant correlation between BMI and hs-CRP, adjusted for confounders. Additionally, individuals with a higher hs-CRP tertile had a significant increase in BMI. Significantly lower log hs-CRP levels were found as the number of ideal CVHM scores rose. Multivariate binary logistic regression found the risk of HMOD-HRC increased significantly as the ideal CVHM scores decreased, and hs-CRP levels also correlated with HMOD-HRC in the whole cohort and in the Ow and Ob subpopulations. These findings highlight the need for early intervention targeting ideal CVHMs among hypertensive individuals with an Ow/Ob phenotype in order to attenuate the inflammatory state and prevent cardiovascular disease.

Metabolite-sensing GPCRs controlling interactions between adipose tissue and inflammation

Metabolic disorders including obesity, diabetes and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are a group of conditions characterised by chronic low-grade inflammation of metabolic tissues. There is now a growing appreciation that various metabolites released from adipose tissue serve as key signalling mediators, influencing this interaction with inflammation. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of signal transduction proteins and most historically successful drug targets. The signalling pathways for several key adipose metabolites are mediated through GPCRs expressed both on the adipocytes themselves and on infiltrating macrophages. These include three main groups of GPCRs: the FFA4 receptor, which is activated by long chain free fatty acids; the HCA₂ and HCA₃ receptors, activated by hydroxy carboxylic acids; and the succinate receptor. Understanding the roles these metabolites and their receptors play in metabolic-immune interactions is critical to establishing how these GPCRs may be exploited for the treatment of metabolic disorders.

The Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Obesity and PCOS-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Inflammasomes have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of several chronic inflammatory disorders, such as diabetes and obesity. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the possible role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify studies investigating NLRP3 its related components (Caspase 1, ASC and IL-1β) in adipose tissue and/or blood from obese individuals compared to non-obese controls. Another search was conducted for studies investigating NLRP3 in PCOS women and animal models. The ssearched databases included Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Clinicaltrials.gov, the EU Clinical Trials Register and the WHO International Clinical Trials Register. The quality and risk of bias for the included articles were assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Data were extracted and pooled using RevMan software for the calculation of the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Twelve eligible studies were included in the obesity systematic review and nine in the PCOS review. Of the obesity studies, nine (n = 270) were included in the meta-analysis, which showed a significantly higher adipose tissue NLRP3 gene expression in obese (n = 186) versus non-obese (n = 84) participants (SMD 1.07; 95% CI, 0.27, 1.87). Pooled analysis of adipose tissue IL-1β data from four studies showed significantly higher IL-1β gene expression levels in adipose tissue from 88 obese participants versus 39 non-obese controls (SMD 0.56; 95% CI, 0.13, 0.99). Meta-analysis of adipose tissue ASC data from four studies showed a significantly higher level in obese (n = 109) versus non-obese (n = 42) individuals (SMD 0.91, 95% CI, 0.30, 1.52). Of the nine PCOS articles, three were human (n = 185) and six were animal studies utilizing PCOS rat/mouse models. All studies apart from one article consistently showed upregulated NLRP3 and its components in PCOS women and animal models. In conclusion, obesity and PCOS seem to be associated with upregulated expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components. Further research is required to validate these findings and to elucidate the role of NLRP3 in obesity and PCOS.

Association of Inflammatory and Oxidative Status Markers with Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in 40-to-45-Year-Old Females: A Cross-Sectional Study

Oxidative stress and sterile inflammation play roles in the induction and maintenance of metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study cohort included 170 females aged 40 to 45 years who were categorized according to the presentation of MetS components (e.g., central obesity, insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and elevated systolic blood pressure) as controls not presenting a single component (n = 43), those with pre-MetS displaying one to two components (n = 70), and females manifesting MetS, e.g., ≥3 components (n = 53). We analyzed the trends of seventeen oxidative and nine inflammatory status markers across three clinical categories. A multivariate regression of selected oxidative status and inflammatory markers on the components of MetS was performed. Markers of oxidative damage (malondialdehyde and advanced-glycation-end-products-associated fluorescence of plasma) were similar across the groups. Healthy controls displayed lower uricemia and higher bilirubinemia than females with MetS; and lower leukocyte counts, concentrations of C-reactive protein, interleukine-6, and higher levels of carotenoids/lipids and soluble receptors for advanced glycation end-products than those with pre-MetS and MetS. In multivariate regression models, levels of C-reactive protein, uric acid, and interleukine-6 were consistently associated with MetS components, although the impacts of single markers differed. Our data suggest that a proinflammatory imbalance precedes the manifestation of MetS, while an imbalance of oxidative status accompanies overt MetS. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether determining markers beyond traditional ones could help improve the prognosis of subjects at an early stage of MetS.

Unraveling the Role of Adiponectin Receptors in Obesity-Related Breast Cancer

Obesity has a noteworthy role in breast tumor initiation and progression. Among the mechanisms proposed, the most validated is the development of chronic low-grade inflammation, supported by immune cell infiltration along with dysfunction in adipose tissue biology, characterized by an imbalance in adipocytokines secretion and alteration of their receptors within the tumor microenvironment. Many of these receptors belong to the seven-transmembrane receptor family, which are involved in physiological features, such as immune responses and metabolism, as well as in the development and progression of several malignancies, including breast cancer. These receptors are classified as canonical (G protein-coupled receptors, GPCRs) and atypical receptors, which fail to interact and activate G proteins. Among the atypical receptors, adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs) mediate the effect of adiponectin, the most abundant adipocytes-derived hormone, on breast cancer cell proliferation, whose serum levels are reduced in obesity. The adiponectin/AdipoRs axis is becoming increasingly important regarding its role in breast tumorigenesis and as a therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment. The objectives of this review are as follows: to point out the structural and functional differences between GPCRs and AdipoRs, and to focus on the effect of AdipoRs activation in the development and progression of obesity-dependent breast cancer.

Socio-Demographic, Lifestyle, and Cardiometabolic Characteristics Associated with Low-Grade Systemic Inflammation in Russian Adult Population

Mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is higher in Russia compared to other European countries. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a biomarker of inflammation, and its elevated levels indicate increased CVD risks. We aim to describe the prevalence of low-grade systemic inflammation (LGSI) and the associated factors in a Russian population. The Know Your Heart cross-sectional study was conducted in Arkhangelsk, Russia in 2015-2017 with a population sample aged 35-69 years (n = 2380). LGSI was defined as hs-CRP ≥ 2 and <10 mg/L, and its associations with socio-demographic, lifestyle, and cardiometabolic characteristics were analyzed. The prevalence of LGSI (age-standardized to European Standard Population 2013) was 34.1% (33.5% in men and 36.1% in women). In the total sample, the increased odds ratios (ORs) of LGSI were associated with abdominal obesity (2.1), smoking (1.9), dyslipidemia (1.5), pulmonary diseases (1.4), and hypertension (1.3); the decreased ORs were in women (0.6) and in married participants (0.6). In men, the ORs were higher with abdominal obesity (2.1), smoking (2.0), CVDs (1.5), and hazardous drinking (1.5); in women-with abdominal obesity (4.4) and pulmonary diseases (1.5). In conclusion, one-third of the adult population in Arkhangelsk had LGSI. Abdominal obesity was the strongest LGSI correlate in both sexes, while the profiles of other associated factors were different between men and women.

Obesity and multiple myeloma: emerging mechanisms and perspectives

Obesity is a global pandemic that has been associated with the development of breast, endometrial, large intestine, renal, esophageal, and pancreatic cancer. Obesity is also involved in the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Recently, an increase in the incidence of obesity-related cancers has been reported. Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy, after lymphoma. The aim of this review is to examine the epidemiological data on obesity and MM, assess the effect of obesity on MM outcomes, evaluate the possible mechanisms through which obesity might increase the incidence of MM and provide the effects of obesity management on MM. Current evidence indicates that obesity may have an impact on the progression of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to MM and increase the prevalence of MM. However, data regarding the effect of obesity on MGUS incidence are controversial; further studies are needed to examine whether obesity affects the development of MGUS or the progression of MGUS to MM. In addition, obesity affects MM outcomes. Increased BMI is associated with decreased survival in patients with MM, while data regarding the effect of obesity on newly diagnosed MM subjects and autologous stem cell transplantation are limited. Interestingly, the obesity paradox may also apply to patients with relapsed/refractory MM who are overweight or obese, because they may have a survival advantage. The pathophysiological pathways linking obesity to MM are very complicated and include bone marrow adipose tissue; adipokines, such as adiponectin, leptin, resistin, and visfatin; inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, such as TNF-α and IL-6; hormones including insulin and the insulin-like growth factor system as well as sex hormones. In terms of the effect of pharmacological management of obesity, orlistat has been shown to alter the proliferation of MM cells, whereas no data exist on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, naltrexone/bupropion, or phentermine/topiramate. Bariatric surgery may be associated with a reduction in the incidence of MM, however, further studies are needed.

Garlic-derived exosomes carrying miR-396e shapes macrophage metabolic reprograming to mitigate the inflammatory response in obese adipose tissue

Low-grade chronic inflammation originating from the adipose tissue and imbalance of lipid metabolism in the liver are the main drivers of the development of obesity and its related metabolic disorders. In this work, we found that garlic-derived exosomes (GDE) supplementation improved insulin resistance, altered the levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum and epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) by decreasing the accumulation of macrophages in HFD-fed mice. Meanwhile, we also observed that GDE regulated the expression of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2, 6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), one of the critical glycolytic enzymes, to shape the metabolic reprograming of macrophage induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and mitigate the inflammatory response in adipocytes via macrophage-adipocyte cross-talk. Data from small RNA sequencing, bioinformatical analysis and the gene over-expression revealed that miR-396e, one of the most abundant miRNAs of GDE, played a critical role in promoting the metabolic reprogramming of macrophage by directly targeting PFKFB3. The findings of this study not only provide an in-depth understanding of GDE protecting against inflammation in obesity but supply evidence to study the molecular mechanisms associated with the interspecies communication.

Microbe-Derived Antioxidants Alleviate Liver and Adipose Tissue Lipid Disorders and Metabolic Inflammation Induced by High Fat Diet in Mice

Obesity induces lipodystrophy and metabolic inflammation. Microbe-derived antioxidants (MA) are novel small-molecule nutrients obtained from microbial fermentation, and have anti-oxidation, lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects. Whether MA can regulate obesity-induced lipodystrophy and metabolic inflammation has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of MA on oxidative stress, lipid disorders, and metabolic inflammation in liver and epididymal adipose tissues (EAT) of mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). Results showed that MA was able to reverse the HFD-induced increase in body weight, body fat rate and Lee's index in mice; reduce the fat content in serum, liver and EAT; and regulate the INS, LEP and resistin adipokines as well as free fatty acids to their normal levels. MA also reduced de novo synthesis of fat in the liver and EAT and promoted gene expression for lipolysis, fatty acid transport and β-oxidation. MA decreased TNF-α and MCP1 content in serum, elevated SOD activity in liver and EAT, induced macrophage polarization toward the M2 type, inhibited the NLRP3 pathway, increased gene expression of the anti-inflammatory factors IL-4 and IL-13 and suppressed gene expression of the pro-inflammatory factors IL-6, TNF-α and MCP1, thereby attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation induced by HFD. In conclusion, MA can effectively reduce HFD-induced weight gain and alleviate obesity-induced oxidative stress, lipid disorders and metabolic inflammation in the liver and EAT, indicating that MA shows great promise as a functional food.

Microbiome Dysbiosis: A Pathological Mechanism at the Intersection of Obesity and Glaucoma

The rate at which obesity is becoming an epidemic in many countries is alarming. Obese individuals have a high risk of developing elevated intraocular pressure and glaucoma. Additionally, glaucoma is a disease of epidemic proportions. It is characterized by neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation with optic neuropathy and the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGC). On the other hand, there is growing interest in microbiome dysbiosis, particularly in the gut, which has been widely acknowledged to play a prominent role in the etiology of metabolic illnesses such as obesity. Recently, studies have begun to highlight the fact that microbiome dysbiosis could play a critical role in the onset and progression of several neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in the development and progression of several ocular disorders. In obese individuals, gut microbiome dysbiosis can induce endotoxemia and systemic inflammation by causing intestinal barrier malfunction. As a result, bacteria and their metabolites could be delivered via the bloodstream or mesenteric lymphatic vessels to ocular regions at the level of the retina and optic nerve, causing tissue degeneration and neuroinflammation. Nowadays, there is preliminary evidence for the existence of brain and intraocular microbiomes. The altered microbiome of the gut could perturb the resident brain-ocular microbiome ecosystem which, in turn, could exacerbate the local inflammation. All these processes, finally, could lead to the death of RGC and neurodegeneration. The purpose of this literature review is to explore the recent evidence on the role of gut microbiome dysbiosis and related inflammation as common mechanisms underlying obesity and glaucoma.

Obesity as a Risk Factor for Breast Cancer-The Role of miRNA

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the world, with an ever-increasing incidence rate. Due to the dynamic increase in the occurrence of risk factors, including obesity and related metabolic disorders, the search for new regulatory mechanisms is necessary. This will help a complete understanding of the pathogenesis of breast cancer. The review presents the mechanisms of obesity as a factor that increases the risk of developing breast cancer and that even initiates the cancer process in the female population. The mechanisms presented in the paper relate to the inflammatory process resulting from current or progressive obesity leading to cell metabolism disorders and disturbed hormonal metabolism. All these processes are widely regulated by the action of microRNAs (miRNAs), which may constitute potential biomarkers influencing the pathogenesis of breast cancer and may be a promising target of anti-cancer therapies.

Effects of Irvingia gabonensis Extract on Metabolism, Antioxidants, Adipocytokines, Telomere Length, and Aerobic Capacity in Overweight/Obese Individuals

We investigated the effects of Irvingia gabonensis (IG) kernel extract on the metabolism, adiposity indices, redox status, inflammation, adipocytokines, blood leukocyte relative telomere length (RTL), and aerobic capacity of overweight/obese individuals. All participants used the first 12-week phase to monitor body weight. They were then randomly divided into two groups: (1) 300 mg IG or (2) placebo (PLA). Both groups took one tablet per day for 12 weeks. The variables were measured before supplementation and after 3, 6, and 12 weeks of supplementation. RTL and aerobic capacity were measured before and after 12 weeks. Compared with the PLA, the IG increased plasma vitamin C after supplementation at 6 (p < 0.01) and 12 weeks (p < 0.05) and serum adiponectin after 3 weeks (p < 0.05). Compared with before supplementation, plasma malondialdehyde in the IG and serum leptin in the PLA were decreased after 12-week supplementation, without any differences between the groups. There were no differences between groups with respect to metabolism, inflammation, RTL, and aerobic capacity after the supplementation. We suggest that 12-week daily IG supplementation improved plasma vitamin C and adiponectin. The findings show the possible mechanism contributing to the effect of IG supplementation on a reduction in obesity-related complications.

Nanoencapsulation of Bimi® extracts increases its bioaccessibility after in vitro digestion and evaluation of its activity in hepatocyte metabolism

Isothiocyanates (ITCs) have low stability in aqueous conditions, reducing their bioavailability when used as food ingredients. Therefore, the aim of this work was to increase the stability of the ITCs present in extracts of Bimi® edible parts by nanoencapsulation using cauliflower-derived plasma membrane vesicles. The bioactivity of these nanoencapsulates was evaluated in a HepG2 hepatocyte cell line in a model for low-grade chronic inflammation. The vesicles showed a higher capacity of retention in the in vitro gastrointestinal digestion for 3,3-diindolylmethane (DIM), indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and sulforaphane (SFN). Furthermore, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis of the vesicles revealed a decreased size under acidic pH and a release of their cargo after the intestinal digestion. The HepG2 experiments revealed differences in metabolism under the condition of chronic inflammation. The cauliflower-derived plasma membrane vesicles are able to enhance the stability of ITCs through the in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, improving their bioaccesibility and potential bioavailability.

Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR) and Circulating Cytokines in Older Persons: The Role of Gender and Body Mass Index

BACKGROUND

Inflammation, along with aging processes, contributes to the development of insulin resistance (IR), but the roles of different inflammatory and other cytokines in this process remain unclear. Thus, we aimed to analyze the association between several plasma cytokines with IR as evaluated by the metabolic score for insulin resistance, METS-IR.

METHODS

We measured the plasma concentrations of thirty cytokines from a cohort of older persons and analyzed their role as independent factors for IR. We used regression analyses adjusted for known IR-associated factors (including age, gender, cholesterol levels, and BMI) to find the determinants of IR.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 132 subjects, mostly women (82F/50M), slightly overweight, and with a mean age of 78.5 ± 6.5 years. In the overall population, IL-15 significantly and negatively correlates with METS-IR (r = -0.183, p = 0.036). A regression model showed that the association between IL-15 and METS-IR was significantly modulated by gender and BMI (R²: 0.831). Only in women, EGF, Eotaxin and MCP-1 significantly correlated with METS-IR even after controlling by age (EGF, r = 0.250 p = 0.025; Eotaxin, r = 0.276 p = 0.13; MCP-1, r = 0.237, p = 0.033). Furthermore, regression models showed that these molecules were associated with METS-IR and were strongly mediated by BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate the association between cytokines and IR has to be interpreted in a gender-specific manner. In women, EGF, Eotaxin, and MCP-1 circulating levels are associated with METS-IR being BMI a significant mediator. Understanding the role of gender in the relationship between cytokines and IR will help to define individualized preventive and treatment interventions to reduce the risk of age-related metabolic disorders.

Increased LRG1 Levels in Overweight and Obese Adolescents and Its Association with Obesity Markers, Including Leptin, Chemerin, and High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein

Leucine-rich α-2 glycoprotein1 (LRG1) is a member of the leucine-rich repeat (LRR) family that is implicated in multiple diseases, including cancer, aging, and heart failure, as well as diabetes and obesity. LRG1 plays a key role in diet-induced hepatosteatosis and insulin resistance by mediating the crosstalk between adipocytes and hepatocytes. LRG1 also promotes hepatosteatosis by upregulating de novo lipogenesis in the liver and suppressing fatty acid β-oxidation. In this study, we investigated the association of LRG1 with obesity markers, including leptin and other adipokines in adolescents (11−14 years; n = 425). BMI-for-age classification based on WHO growth charts was used to define obesity. Plasma LRG1 was measured by ELISA, while other markers were measured by multiplexing assay. Median (IQR) of LRG1 levels was higher in obese (30 (25, 38) µg/mL) and overweight (30 (24, 39) µg/mL) adolescents, compared to normal-weight participants (27 (22, 35) µg/mL). The highest tertile of LRG1 had an OR [95% CI] of 2.55 [1.44, 4.53] for obesity. LRG1 was positively correlated to plasma levels of high sensitivity c-reactive protein (HsCRP) (ρ = 0.2), leptin (ρ = 0.2), and chemerin (ρ = 0.24) with p < 0.001. Additionally, it was positively associated with plasma level of IL6 (ρ = 0.17) and IL10 (ρ = 0.14) but not TNF-α. In conclusion, LRG1 levels are increased in obese adolescents and are associated with increased levels of adipogenic markers. These results suggest the usefulness of LRG1 as an early biomarker for obesity and its related pathologies in adolescents.

Neutrophil Elastase Increases Vascular Permeability and Leukocyte Transmigration in Cultured Endothelial Cells and Obese Mice

Neutrophil elastase (NE) plays a pivotal role in inflammation. However, the mechanism underlying NE-mediated inflammation in obesity remains unclear. Here, we report that NE activates protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR2), stimulates actin filament (F-actin) formation, decreases intercellular junction molecule VE-cadherin expression, and increases the permeability of human arterial endothelial cells (hECs). NE also prompts degradation of VE-cadherin and its binding proteins p120- and β-catenins via MG132-sensitive proteasomes. NE stimulates phosphorylation of myosin light-chain (MLC) and its regulator myosin phosphatase target subunit-1 (MYPT1), a target of Rho kinase (ROCK). Inhibitors of PAR2 and ROCK prohibit NE-induced F-actin formation, MLC phosphorylation, and VE-cadherin reduction in hECs, and impede monocyte transmigration through hEC monolayer pretreated with either neutrophils or NE. Further, administration of an NE inhibitor GW311616A significantly attenuates vascular leakage, leukocyte infiltration, and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the white adipose tissue from high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Likewise, NE-deficient mice are resistant to HFD-induced vascular leakage in the heart. Together, NE regulates actomyosin cytoskeleton activity and VE-cadherin expression by activating PAR2 signaling in the endothelial cells, leading to increased vascular permeability and leukocyte extravasation. Hence, inhibition of NE is a potential approach to mitigate vascular injury and leukocyte infiltration in obesity-related systemic inflammation.

Obesity and Endothelial Function

Obesity is a major public health problem and is related to increasing rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Over 1.9 billion adults are overweight or obese worldwide and the prevalence of obesity is increasing. Obesity influences endothelial function through obesity-related complications such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The excess fat accumulation in obesity causes adipocyte dysfunction and induces oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and inflammation leading to endothelial dysfunction. Several anthropometric indices and imaging modalities that are used to evaluate obesity have demonstrated an association between obesity and endothelial function. In the past few decades, there has been great focus on the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction caused by obesity for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular events. This review focuses on pathophysiological mechanisms of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction and therapeutic targets of obesity.

Neutrophils Actively Contribute to Obesity-Associated Inflammation and Pathological Complications

Obesity is characterized by an increase in body weight associated with an exaggerated enlargement of the adipose tissue. Obesity has serious negative effects because it is associated with multiple pathological complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. Nowadays, 39% of the world population is obese or overweight, making obesity the 21st century epidemic. Obesity is also characterized by a mild, chronic, systemic inflammation. Accumulation of fat in adipose tissue causes stress and malfunction of adipocytes, which then initiate inflammation. Next, adipose tissue is infiltrated by cells of the innate immune system. Recently, it has become evident that neutrophils, the most abundant leukocytes in blood, are the first immune cells infiltrating the adipose tissue. Neutrophils then get activated and release inflammatory factors that recruit macrophages and other immune cells. These immune cells, in turn, perpetuate the inflammation state by producing cytokines and chemokines that can reach other parts of the body, creating a systemic inflammatory condition. In this review, we described the recent findings on the role of neutrophils during obesity and the initiation of inflammation. In addition, we discuss the involvement of neutrophils in the generation of obesity-related complications using diabetes as a prime example.

More Active Intestinal Immunity Developed by Obese Mice Than Non-Obese Mice After Challenged by Escherichia coli

Obese mice presented lower mortality to non-fatal pneumonia induced by Escherichia coli (E. coli) than the non-obese mice. However, it remained obscure whether the intestine contributed to the protective effect of obese mice with infection. The 64 non-obese (NOB) mice were divided into NOB-uninfected and NOB-E. coli groups, while 64 high-fat diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice were divided into DIO-uninfected and DIO-E. coli groups. Mice in E. coli groups were intranasally instilled with 40 μl E. coli (4.0 ×109 colony-forming units [CFUs]), while uninfected groups with the same volume of phosphate buffer saline (PBS). The T subsets of Intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and lamina propria lymphocytes (LPLs) in the intestine were collected for flow cytometry analysis at 0, 12, 24, and 72 h post-infection, also the duodenum and colon were harvested to survey histopathological change. The results showed that the percentage of CD3+T cells in LPLs in DIO-E. coli group was significantly lower than that in the DIO-uninfected group after infection (p &lt; 0.05). The percentage of CD4+T cells in IELs in NOB-E. coli was significantly lower than that in DIO-E. coli after infection (p &lt; 0.05). The percentage of CD8+T cells in LPLs in NOB-E. coli was significantly lower than that in DIO-E. coli at 12 and 24 h (p &lt; 0.05). The immunoglobulin A (IgA)+ cells in DIO-uninfected were higher than that in NOB-uninfected at all time points (p &lt; 0.05). The IgA+ cells in DIO-E. coli were higher than that in DIO-uninfected at 12, 24, and 72 h (p &lt; 0.05). The results revealed that the level of intestinal mucosal immunity in obese mice was more active than that in non-obese mice.

Lipid metabolism disorders and lipid mediator changes of mice in response to long-term exposure to high-fat and high sucrose diets and ameliorative effects of mulberry leaves

Mulberry leaves exhibit anti-lipogenic and lipid-lowering effects. However, the lipid biomarkers and underlying mechanisms for the improvement of the action of mulberry leaves on obesity and lipid metabolism disorders have not been sufficiently investigated yet. Herein, biochemical analysis combined with metabolomics targeting serum lipid mediators (oxylipins) were used to explore the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of mulberry leaf water extract (MLWE) in high-fat and high-sucrose diet (HFHSD)-fed mice. Our results showed that MLWE supplementation not only decreased body weight gain, serum total triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels, but also increased the serum level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In addition, MLWE supplementation also ameliorated hepatic steatosis and lipid accumulation. These beneficial effects were associated with down-regulating genes involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipogenesis such as acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthase, and up-regulating genes related to lipolysis that encoded peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, adiponectin (ADPN), adiponectin receptor (AdipoR) 1, AdipoR2, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and hormone-sensitive lipase. Moreover, a total of 54 serum lipid mediators were differentially changed in HFHSD-fed mice, among which 11 lipid mediators from n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were apparently reversed by MLWE. These findings indicated that the ADPN/AMPK pathway, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and n-3 PUFA metabolism played important roles in anti-obesity and improvement of lipid metabolism disorders modulated by MLWE supplementation.

Dietary Supplementation of Auricularia auricula-judae Polysaccharides Alleviate Nutritional Obesity in Mice via Regulating Inflammatory Response and Lipid Metabolism

The incidence of lipid metabolism disorder and obesity that is caused by high-calorie diets is increasing year by year, which has become an urgent global health problem. This study was performed to explore the intervention effects of polysaccharides that were extracted from Auricularia auricula-judae resources in the Qinba Mountain area on nutritional obesity in C57BL/6J mice that was induced by high fat and high fructose diets (HFFD) and to investigate their underlying molecular mechanisms. The results showed that dietary supplementation of Auricularia auricula-judae polysaccharides (AAP) significantly improved mice’s insulin resistance state, altered serum lipid metabolites, and slowed down body weight gain that was induced by HFFD. In addition, AAP supplementation decreased inflammatory factor levels and alleviated liver histomorphology changes. Furthermore, AAP down-regulated liver adipogenic-related gene expressions, suppressed cholesterol synthesis-related gene levels, up-regulated fatty acid β-oxidation-related gene expressions, and promoted cholesterol efflux-related gene expressions, thus improving mice hepatic lipid metabolism homeostasis. Moreover, the intervention effects were closely related to mitochondrial function. These results provide a scientific basis for the further development and utilization of Auricularia auricula-judae resources in the Qinba Mountain area.

Preparative isolation of maltol glycoside from Dianthus superbus and its anti-inflammatory activity in vitro

Dianthus superbus is a traditional Chinese medicine that is commonly utilized as a treatment for inflammation, pain, and immunological conditions. In this study, an anti-inflammatory maltol glycoside derived from Dianthus superbus was isolated for the first time via medium and high-pressure liquid chromatography, and at the same time, the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of this maltol glycoside was preliminarily explored. Initially, crude samples of Dianthus superbus were preprocessed via MCI GEL® CHP20P and Spherical C18 medium-pressure chromatography, under the guidance of evaluation of in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. Fr44 was found to be the target fraction, and it was further isolated via two-dimensional reversed-phase/hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography, yielding > 95% pure and was identified as tunicoside B. MTT assay, nitric oxide and nitric oxide synthase were used to evaluate the effects of tunicoside B on murine macrophage Raw264.7 by nitric oxide synthase assay kit, molecular docking, and western blotting. The results showed that tunicoside B did not affect the viability of cells and exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity. As far as we know, this is the first report of tunicoside B from Dianthus superbus and the first study on the anti-inflammatory activity of tunicoside B. More importantly, the approach established in this study is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the separation and pharmacological activity study of maltol glycosides from other natural products.

Tunicoside B was isolated via medium-pressure chromatography and 2D reversed-phase/hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography. Tunicoside B did not affect the viability of cells in vivo, and exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity.

Decreased level of soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-κβ ligand (sRANKL) in overweight and obese children

INTRODUCTION

Childhood obesity contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases. The molecular pathway - receptor activator of nuclear factor-κβ ligand (RANKL), its receptor RANK and osteoprotegerin (OPG) - takes part not only in bone metabolism but is also involved in the atherosclerosis process. RANKL stimulates osteogenic differentiation and calcification of vascular smooth cells. The associations between the OPG-sRANKL system and various cardiovascular risk factors were displayed. We aimed to evaluate the relationships between serum sRANKL (soluble RANKL) levels and the OPG/sRANKL ratio with cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 70 children with overweight and obesity (mean age 13.0 ± 2.8) and 35 age-matched normal weight, healthy peers as a control group. In all patients, anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests were performed. Additionally, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was made only in overweight and obese children. Atherogenic and insulin resistance indices were calculated.

RESULTS

Overweight and obese children had lower sRANKL levels compared to the control group (median 276.95 vs 325.90, p=0.011), and consequently a higher OPG/sRANKL ratio (0.02 vs 0.01, p = 0.013). The studied children in the lowest quartile of sRANKL levels had higher body weight, Body Mass Index, waist circumference and increased glucose and insulin levels 60 minutes after OGTT and higher uric acid values compared to children in the highest quartile. In multivariable linear regression analysis sRANKL negatively correlated only with uric acid (β = - 0.508, p = 0.041). No association was found for the OPG/sRANKL ratio.

CONCLUSION

Excess fat mass seems to alter the OPG/RANKL ratio mainly by reducing serum sRANKL levels. The correlation between sRANKL and uric acid may suggest a contribution of the OPG-sRANKL system in the cardiometabolic process, but that observation should be confirmed in future studies.

Longitudinal association of the anti-inflammatory serum marker GDF-15 with serum IgA and IgG in apparently healthy children

Both the innate and adaptive immune responses are deregulated in individuals with obesity and are key drivers of its associated metabolic alterations. Although the anti-inflammatory growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a candidate protein against obesity, its mechanisms regulating the immune responses are not fully cleared. We examined whether GDF-15 was related to serum immunoglobulins in a children’s cohort assessed longitudinally during childhood. Results showed that circulating GDF-15 positively associated with IgA (p < 0.002) and IgG (p < 0.001) levels and the IgA*IgG product (p < 0.001) in apparently healthy children at both baseline (age 9) and follow-up (age 13). The associations were readily observed in heavier children (those with BMI-SDS above the median) as well as in children with higher renal fat accumulation (those with renal fat-to-height ratio above the median) and remained significant after correcting for possible confounding variables. Serum GDF-15 levels accounted for up to 16% of the variance of follow-up IgG levels and up to 14% of the variance of follow-up IgA*IgG product. The longitudinal associations of the anti-inflammatory GDF-15 with IgA, IgG and the IgA*IgG product in children with higher BMI or higher renal fat accumulation suggest a role of GDF-15 in human obesity through the regulation of the immune adaptive system.

The Alterations in and the Role of the Th17/Treg Balance in Metabolic Diseases

Chronic inflammation plays an important role in the development of metabolic diseases. These include obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. The proinflammatory environment maintained by the innate immunity, including macrophages and related cytokines, can be influenced by adaptive immunity. The function of T helper 17 (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells in this process has attracted attention. The Th17/Treg balance is regulated by inflammatory cytokines and various metabolic factors, including those associated with cellular energy metabolism. The possible underlying mechanisms include metabolism-related signaling pathways and epigenetic regulation. Several studies conducted on human and animal models have shown marked differences in and the important roles of Th17/Treg in chronic inflammation associated with obesity and metabolic diseases. Moreover, Th17/Treg seems to be a bridge linking the gut microbiota to host metabolic disorders. In this review, we have provided an overview of the alterations in and the functions of the Th17/Treg balance in metabolic diseases and its role in regulating immune response-related glucose and lipid metabolism.

Towards Goals to Refine Prophylactic and Therapeutic Strategies Against COVID-19 Linked to Aging and Metabolic Syndrome

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) gave rise to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A strong correlation has been demonstrated between worse COVID-19 outcomes, aging, and metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is primarily derived from obesity-induced systemic chronic low-grade inflammation with numerous complications, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The majority of COVID-19 deaths occurs in people over the age of 65. Individuals with MetS are inclined to manifest adverse disease consequences and mortality from COVID-19. In this review, we examine the prevalence and molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced risk of COVID-19 in elderly people and individuals with MetS. Subsequently, we discuss current progresses in treating COVID-19, including the development of new COVID-19 vaccines and antivirals, towards goals to elaborate prophylactic and therapeutic treatment options in this vulnerable population.

Time perspective, future anxiety, and hope for success in individuals awaiting bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

The paper focuses on the problems of temporal functioning of obese individuals and of individuals prepared for bariatric treatment. The experience of time heavily weighs on many areas of human functioning, everyday activity, planning and achieving goals, engaging in pro-health behaviours, and in consequence on the quality of life and on physical health. Contingent on numerous factors, obesity may be related to focusing on particular aspects of time perspective. The aim of the study was to determine the specificity of particular temporal dispositions in individuals prepared for bariatric surgery, and thus to devise suitable post-op psychological interventions.

PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE

The study sample comprised 28 individuals (60.7% women, mean age M = 43.82 years, SD = 10.01, mean BMI M = 44.83 kg/m2, SD = 6.51) awaiting bariatric surgery. The data were collected individually with the following pen-and-paper questionnaires: the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, the Dark Future Scale, and the Polish adaptation of Snyder's Adult Hope Scale, which is named the Hope for Success Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The results showed the prevalence of present hedonistic time perspective in the obese. With regard to future anxiety or the hope for success, no significant deviations from the general population were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that this group is in need of temporal psychotherapy aimed at balancing the time perspective. The results may also be interpreted through the lens of contextual determinants connected with task orientation preceding the surgery.