Adipose tissue, inflammation and atherosclerosis

Intravenous calcitriol administration improves the liver redox status and attenuates ferroptosis in mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity complicated with sepsis

Obesity aggravates ferroptosis, and vitamin D (VD) may inhibit ferroptosis. We hypothesized that weight reduction and/or calcitriol administration have benefits against the sepsis-induced liver redox imbalance and ferroptosis in obese mice. Mice were fed a high-fat diet for 11 weeks, then half of the mice continued to consume the diet, while the other half were transferred to a low-energy diet for 5 weeks. After feeding the respective diets for 16 weeks, sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Septic mice were divided into four experimental groups: OS group, obese mice injected with saline; OD group, obese mice with calcitriol; WS group, weight-reduction mice with saline; and WD group, weight-reduction mice with calcitriol. Mice in the respective groups were euthanized at 12 or 24 h after CLP. Results showed that the OS group had the highest inflammatory mediators and lipid peroxide levels in the liver. Calcitriol treatment reduced iron content, enhanced the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio, upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, ferroptosis-suppressing protein 1, and solute carrier family 7 member 11 expression levels. Also, mitochondrion-associated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, and heme oxidase-1 expression levels increased in the late phase of sepsis. These results were not noted in the WS group. These findings suggest that calcitriol treatment elicits a more-balanced glutathione redox status, alleviates liver ferroptosis, and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis-associated gene expressions. Weight reduction alone had minimal influences on liver ferroptosis and mitochondrial biogenesis in obese mice with sepsis.

Targeting TXNIP in endothelial progenitors mitigates IL-8-induced neutrophil recruitment under metabolic stress

BACKGROUND

This study explores the potential role of Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) silencing in endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) within the scope of age-related comorbidities and impaired vascular repair. We aim to elucidate the effects of TXNIP silencing on vasculogenic properties, paracrine secretion, and neutrophil recruitment under conditions of metabolic stress.

METHODS

ECFCs, isolated from human blood cord, were transfected with TXNIP siRNA and exposed to a high glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) medium to simulate metabolic stress. We evaluated the effects of TXNIP silencing on ECFCs' functional and secretory responses under these conditions. Assessments included analyses of gene and protein expression profiles, vasculogenic properties, cytokine secretion and neutrophil recruitment both in vitro and in vivo. The in vivo effects were examined using a murine model of hindlimb ischemia to observe the physiological relevance of TXNIP modulation under metabolic disorders.

RESULTS

TXNIP silencing did not mitigate the adverse effects on cell recruitment, vasculogenic properties, or senescence induced by metabolic stress in ECFCs. However, it significantly reduced IL-8 secretion and consequent neutrophil recruitment under these conditions. In a mouse model of hindlimb ischemia, endothelial deletion of TXNIP reduced MIP-2 secretion and prevented increased neutrophil recruitment induced by age-related comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that targeting TXNIP in ECFCs may alleviate ischemic complications exacerbated by metabolic stress, offering potential clinical benefits for patients suffering from age-related comorbidities.

The Intersection of the Pathogenic Processes Underlying Psoriasis and the Comorbid Condition of Obesity

In the past decade, our understanding of psoriasis pathogenesis has made significant steps forward, leading to the development of multiple game-changing therapies. While psoriasis primarily affects the skin, it is increasingly recognized as a systemic disease that can have effects beyond the skin. Obesity is associated with more severe forms of psoriasis and can potentially worsen the systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction seen in psoriatic patients. The exact mechanisms underlying the link between these two conditions are not fully understood, but it is believed that chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation play a role. In this review, we examine the existing body of knowledge regarding the intersection of pathogenic processes responsible for psoriasis and obesity. The ability of biological therapies to reduce systemic and obesity-related inflammation in patients with psoriasis will be also discussed.

Omental preadipocytes stimulate matrix remodeling and IGF signaling to support ovarian cancer metastasis

Ovarian cancer can metastasize to the omentum, which is associated with a complex tumor microenvironment. Omental stromal cells facilitate ovarian cancer colonization by secreting cytokines and growth factors. Improved understanding of the tumor supportive functions of specific cell populations in the omentum could identify strategies to prevent and treat ovarian cancer metastasis. Here, we showed that omental preadipocytes enhance the tumor initiation capacity of ovarian cancer cells. Secreted factors from preadipocytes supported cancer cell viability during nutrient and isolation stress and enabled prolonged proliferation. Co-culturing with pre-adipocytes led to upregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, cellular response to stress, and regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling in ovarian cancer cells. IGF-1 induced ECM genes and increased alternative NF-κB signaling by activating RelB. Inhibiting the IGF-1 receptor (IGF1R) initially increased tumor omental adhesion but decreased growth of established preadipocyte-induced subcutaneous tumors as well as established intraperitoneal tumors. Together, this study shows that omental preadipocytes support ovarian cancer progression, which has implications for targeting metastasis.

Inflammation mediates the relationship between diet quality assessed by healthy eating index-2015 and metabolic syndrome

Background

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic disorders, including obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and abnormal lipid levels. However, researches on the association between overall dietary quality measured by the Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) and the risk of metabolic syndrome is still lacking.

Methods

This study utilized data from four cycles (2011-2018) of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, including 17,582 participants. Logistic regression analysis was employed to explore the correlation between HEI and the risk of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, mediation analysis was conducted to examine the effects of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) and serum uric acid as potential mediators between HEI and metabolic syndrome risk. Weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression evaluated the composite exposure impact of the 13 components of the HEI on metabolic syndrome, as well as the proportion of their weights.

Results

Higher dietary quality measured by HEI-2015 (at the 75th percentile) was negatively correlated with the risk of metabolic syndrome (OR=0.80, 95%CI=0.72-0.89, P=0.003). Higher SII and serum uric acid levels were identified as risk factors for metabolic syndrome (P for trend<0.001). Approximately 37.5% of the effect of HEI on metabolic syndrome occurrence was mediated by SII (Indirect effect=-0.002, 95%CI (-0.003,-0.001), Direct effect=-0.022, 95%CI (-0.0273,-0.015)). Additionally, 25% of the effect of HEI on metabolic syndrome occurrence was mediated by serum uric acid levels (Indirect effect=-0.006, 95%CI (-0.010,-0.012), Direct effect=-0.024, 95%CI (-0.041,-0.009)). WQS regression analysis revealed the highest weighted proportions for seafood and plant proteins (25.20%) and sodium (17.79%), while the weight for whole fruit was the lowest (0.25%).

Conclusion

Better dietary quality measured by HEI-2015 was associated with a lower likelihood of metabolic syndrome. Higher SII and serum uric acid levels were identified as risk factors for metabolic syndrome and potential mediators.

Effects of an in vitro vitamin D treatment on the inflammatory responses in visceral adipose tissue from Ldlr-/- mice

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Atherosclerosis is associated with increased inflammation in the visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Vitamin D has been reported to modulate the inflammatory responses of stromal vascular cells (SVCs) and adipocytes in adipose tissue, but the role of vitamin D in atherosclerosis biology is unclear. This study examined the effects of in vitro 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25[OH]2D3) treatment on the inflammatory responses of SVCs and adipocytes from atherosclerotic mice.

MATERIALS/METHODS

C57BL/6J (B6) mice were divided randomly into 2 groups and fed a 10% kcal fat control diet (control group, CON) or 41% kcal fat, 0.21% cholesterol (high fat + cholesterol, HFC) diet (obese group, OB), and B6.129S7-Ldlrtm1Her/J (Ldlr-/-) mice were fed a HFC diet (obese with atherosclerosis group, OBA) for 16 weeks. SVCs and adipocytes isolated from VAT were pre-incubated with 1,25(OH)2D3 for 24 h and stimulated with lipopolysaccarides for the next 24 h. Proinflammatory cytokine production by adipocytes and SVCs, the immune cell population in SVCs, and the expression of the genes involved in the inflammatory signaling pathway in SVCs were determined.

RESULTS

The numbers of total macrophages and SVCs per mouse were higher in OB and OBA groups than the CON group. The in vitro 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment significantly reduced macrophages/SVCs (%) in the OBA group. Consistent with this change, the production of interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) by SVCs from the OBA group was decreased by 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment. The 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment significantly reduced the toll-like receptor 4 and dual-specificity protein phosphatase 1 (also known as mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1) mRNA levels in SVCs and MCP-1 production by adipocytes from all 3 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that vitamin D can attribute to the inhibition of the inflammatory response in VAT from atherosclerotic mice by reducing proinflammatory cytokine production.

Combination of rRT-PCR and Clinical Features to Predict Coronavirus Disease 2019 for Nosocomial Infection Control

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), immediately became a pandemic. Therefore, nosocomial infection control is necessary to screen for patients with possible COVID-19.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate commonly measured clinical variables to predict COVID-19.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 1087 patients in the isolation ward of a university hospital. Conferences were organized to differentiate COVID-19 from non-COVID-19 cases, and multiple nucleic acid tests were mandatory when COVID-19 could not be excluded. Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to determine the clinical factors associated with COVID-19 at the time of hospitalization.

Results

Overall, 352 (32.4%) patients were diagnosed with COVID-19. The majority of the non-COVID-19 cases were predominantly caused by bacterial infections. Multivariate analysis indicated that COVID-19 was significantly associated with age, sex, body mass index, lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein, and malignancy.

Conclusion

Some clinical factors are useful to predict patients with COVID-19 among those with symptoms similar to COVID-19. This study suggests that at least two real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reactions of SARS-CoV-2 are recommended to exclude COVID-19.

Endothelial and exercise vasodilation are reduced in postmenopausal females with obesity versus lean and overweight

BACKGROUND

Obesity (OB) is highly prevalent in females after menopause, especially visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation which contributes to endothelial dysfunction. The endothelium assists in regulating blood flow (BF) during exercise and is attenuated in females with OB. The purpose of this study was to examine upper and lower limb flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and BF regulation during graded low-intensity submaximal exercises in postmenopausal females with BMI in the lean (LN), overweight (OW) and OB categories.

METHODS

Participants were grouped by body mass index (BMI) into LN (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2; n = 11), OW (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m2; n = 15), and OB (BMI 30.0-39.9 kg/m2; n = 13). FMD of the brachial (BA-FMD) and superficial femoral arteries (FA-FMD) were assessed. Subsequently, BF and vascular conductance (VC) in the upper (BA-BF and BA-VC) and lower limbs (FA-BF and FA-VC) were measured during separate 3-stage incremental rhythmic handgrip and plantarflexion exercises.

RESULTS

Significantly lower FA-FMD (P < 0.05) were seen in OB than LN and OW groups with no differences in BA-FMD. Increases in FA-BF and FA-VC were attenuated during the last stage of plantarflexion exercise at 30% of 1RM in OB (both P < 0.001) compared to LN and OW, while upper-body exercise vasodilation was unchanged. FA-BF and FA-VC during plantarflexion exercise were correlated to FA-FMD (FA-BF: r = 0.423, P = 0.007, FA-VC: r = 0.367, P = 0.021) and BMI (FA-BF: r = -0.386, P = 0.015, FA-VC: r = -0.456, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Postmenopausal females with OB have reduced lower-limb endothelial and exercise vasodilator function during submaximal dynamic plantarflexion exercise compared to LN and OW. Our findings indicate that obesity may predict diminished leg endothelial function, BF and VC during exercise in postmenopausal females.

Distinguishing the impact of distinct obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and obesity related factors on human monocyte subsets

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and obesity go hand in hand in the majority of patients and both are associated with a systemic inflammation, immune disturbance and comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease. However, the unambiguous impact of OSAS and obesity on the individual inflammatory microenvironment and the immunological consequences of human monocytes has not been distinguished yet. Therefore, aim of this study was to investigate the impact of OSAS and obesity related factors on the inflammatory microenvironment by performing flow cytometric whole blood measurements of CD14/CD16 monocyte subsets in normal weight OSAS patients, patients with obesity but without OSAS, and patients with OSAS and obesity, compared to healthy donors. Moreover, explicitly OSAS and obesity related plasma levels of inflammatory mediators adiponectin, leptin, lipocalin and metalloproteinase-9 were determined and the influence of different OSAS and obesity related factors on cytokine secretion and expression of different adhesion molecules by THP-1 monocytes was analysed. Our data revealed a significant redistribution of circulating classical and intermediate monocytes in all three patient cohorts, but differential effects in terms of monocytic adhesion molecules CD11a, CD11b, CD11c, CX3CR1, CD29, CD49d, and plasma cytokine levels. These data were reflected by differential effects of OSAS and obesity related factors leptin, TNFα and hypoxia on THP-1 cytokine secretion patterns and expression of adhesion molecules CD11b and CD49d. In summary, our data revealed differential effects of OSAS and obesity, which underlines the need for a customized therapeutic regimen with respect to the individual weighting of these overlapping diseases.

Calpain and Cardiometabolic Diseases

Calpain is defined as a member of the superfamily of cysteine proteases possessing the CysPC motif within the gene. Calpain-1 and -2, which are categorized as conventional isozymes, execute limited proteolysis in a calcium-dependent fashion. Accordingly, the calpain system participates in physiological and pathological phenomena, including cell migration, apoptosis, and synaptic plasticity. Recent investigations have unveiled the contributions of both conventional and unconventional calpains to the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic disorders. In the context of atherosclerosis, overactivation of conventional calpain attenuates the barrier function of vascular endothelial cells and decreases the immunosuppressive effects attributed to lymphatic endothelial cells. In addition, calpain-6 induces aberrant mRNA splicing in macrophages, conferring atheroprone properties. In terms of diabetes, polymorphisms of the calpain-10 gene can modify insulin secretion and glucose disposal. Moreover, conventional calpain reportedly participates in amino acid production from vascular endothelial cells to induce alteration of amino acid composition in the liver microenvironment, thereby facilitating steatohepatitis. Such multifaceted functionality of calpain underscores its potential as a promising candidate for pharmaceutical targets for the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases. Consequently, the present review highlights the pivotal role of calpains in the complications of cardiometabolic diseases and embarks upon a characterization of calpains as molecular targets.

Correlation Between Abdominal Fat Distribution and Serum Uric Acid in Patients Recently Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes

Objective

To investigated the link between the distribution of abdominal fat and the concentration of serum uric acid (SUA) in individuals recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Studied 364 individuals had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within one month, and evaluated factors such as the distribution of fat in the abdomen, indicators related to glucose and lipid metabolism. The participants' SUA concentrations were divided into a normal control group (CG) and a hyperuricemia group (HG).

Results

The HG group had elevated abdominal subcutaneous fat area (SFA), visceral fat content (VFA), body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (PBG), glycosylated albumin (GA), serum creatinine (SCr), triacylglycerol (TG), and lower values in glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) when compared to the CG group (P < 0.05). Among the obese individuals, the hyperuricemia subgroup exhibited higher measurements in waistline, hipline, VFA, SFA, BMI, PBG, SCr, TG, and lower HDL-C (P < 0.05) compared to the subgroup with normal uric acid levels. In the non-obese group, the hyperuricemia subgroup showed higher VFA, SCr, and FBG levels, and lower HDL-C (P < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between VFA and serum uric acid (SUA) levels (r = 0.329, P < 0.0001). Logistic regression analysis indicated a 24% increased risk of hyperuricemia with every 10cm2 increase in abdominal VFA. Generate the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that VFA was the most effective predictor of hyperuricemia and insulin resistance (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients exhibit a strong correlation between abdominal visceral fat and SUA concentration, the former is identified as an autonomous risk factor for hyperuricemia and an effective indicator for assessing the presence of hyperuricemia and predicting insulin resistance.

The effects of capsaicin intake on weight loss among overweight and obese subjects: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Animal studies have shown that capsaicin plays a positive role in weight management. However, the results in human research are controversial. Therefore, the present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of capsaicin on weight loss in adults. We searched PubMed, Embase, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), Cochrane library and clinical registration centre, identifying all randomised controlled trials (RCT) published in English and Chinese to 3 May 2022. A random-effect model was used to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 % CI. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed by the Cochran Q statistic and I-squared tests (I 2 ). Statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 15.1. P-values < 0·05 were considered as statistically significant. From 2377 retrieved studies, fifteen studies were finally included in the meta-analyses. Fifteen RCT with 762 individuals were included in our meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, the supplementation of capsaicin resulted in significant reduction on BMI (WMD: -0·25 kg/m2, 95 % CI = -0·35, -0·15 kg/m2, P < 0·05), body weight (BW) (WMD: -0·51 kg, 95 % CI = -0·86, -0·15 kg, P < 0·05) and waist circumference (WC) (WMD: -1·12 cm, 95 % CI = -2·00, -0·24 cm, P < 0·05). We found no detrimental effect of capsaicin on waist-to-hip ratio (WMD: -0·05, 95 % CI = -0·17, 0·06, P > 0·05). The current meta-analysis suggests that capsaicin supplementation may have rather modest effects in reducing BMI, BW and WC for overweight or obese individuals.

Risks of obesity and diabetes development in the population of the Ivano-Frankivsk region in Ukraine

The epidemic of obesity that parallels diabetes mellitus and its complications are diseases of major concern to modern societies. Community-based screening is an effective strategy to identify people at high risk of developing overweight, obesity, prediabetes, diabetes, and related health problems. Here, we present the results of screening the population of four locations in the Ivano-Frankivsk region (Western Ukraine). The study group consisted of 400 adults and 252 children. The measured parameters were: (1) main vital signs - body temperature, resting heart rate, blood pressure; (2) anthropometric indicators - body mass and height, body mass index, waist circumference; and (3) metabolic parameters - fasting capillary blood glucose, total body fat, visceral fat, physical activity level and 10-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study found that 23 % of the adults were overweight and 14.8 % obese. Among children, 9.9 % were overweight and 8.7 % obese. Adult body mass index correlated with visceral fat percentage, systolic/diastolic blood pressure and levels of fasting capillary blood glucose. Adults over 18 years of age had fasting capillary blood glucose ≥5.6 mmol/L (14.3 %), including those with undiagnosed pre-diabetes (13.3 %) and suspected diabetes mellitus (1.0 %). The percentage of visceral body fat in adults was positively associated with the 10-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

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

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

Potential therapeutic implications of calcitriol administration and weight reduction on CD4 T cell dysregulation and renin angiotensin system-associated acute lung injury in septic obese mice

This study investigated the effects of weight reduction and/or calcitriol administration on regulating CD4 T cell subsets and renin-angiotensin system (RAS)-associated acute lung injury (ALI) in obese mice with sepsis. Half of the mice were fed a high-fat diet for 16 weeks, half of them had high-fat diet for 12 weeks then were transferred to a low-energy diet for 4 weeks. After feeding the respective diets, cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) were performed to induce sepsis. There were four sepsis groups: OSS group, obese mice injected with saline; OSD group, obese mice given calcitriol; WSS group, mice with weight reduction and saline; WSD group, mice with weight reduction and calcitriol. Mice were sacrificed after CLP. The findings showed that CD4 T subsets distribution did not differ among the experimental groups. Calcitriol-treated groups had higher RAS-associated AT2R, MasR, ACE2, and angiopoietin 1-7 (Ang(1-7)) levels in the lungs. Also, higher tight junction proteins were noted 12 h after CLP. At 24 h post-CLP, weight reduction and/or calcitriol treatment reduced plasma inflammatory mediator production. Calcitriol-treated groups had higher CD4/CD8, T helper (Th)1/Th2 and lower Th17/regulatory T (Treg) ratios than the groups without calcitriol. In the lungs, calcitriol-treated groups had lower AT1R levels, whereas the RAS anti-inflammatory protein levels were higher than those groups without calcitriol. Lower injury scores were also noted at this time point. These findings suggested weight reduction decreased systemic inflammation. However, calcitriol administration produced a more-balanced Th/Treg distribution, upregulated the RAS anti-inflammatory pathway, and attenuated ALI in septic obese mice.

Management of Obesity-Related Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Diseases by Medicinal Plants: From Traditional Uses to Therapeutic Targets

Inflammation is a crucial factor in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Cardiac remodeling in the presence of persistent inflammation leads to myocardial fibrosis and extracellular matrix changes, which reduce cardiac function, induce arrhythmias, and finally, cause heart failure. The majority of current CVD treatment plans concentrate on reducing risk factors such as hyperlipidemia, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. One such strategy could be inflammation reduction. Numerous in vitro, animal, and clinical studies indicate that obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of medicinal plants and phytochemicals to cure and prevent obesity and inflammation. In comparison to conventional therapies, the synergistic effects of several phytochemicals boost their bioavailability and impact numerous cellular and molecular targets. Focusing on appetite, pancreatic lipase activity, thermogenesis, lipid metabolism, lipolysis and adipogenesis, apoptosis in adipocytes, and adipocyte life cycle by medicinal plants and phytochemicals represent an important goal in the development of new anti-obesity drugs. We conducted an extensive review of the literature and electronic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and MedlinePlus, for collecting data on the therapeutic effects of medicinal plants/phytochemicals in curing obesity and its related inflammation and CVD diseases, including cellular and molecular mechanisms, cytokines, signal transduction cascades, and clinical trials.

The Modulation of Adipokines, Adipomyokines, and Sleep Disorders on Carcinogenesis

Obesity and sarcopenia, i.e., decreased skeletal muscle mass and function, are global health challenges. Moreover, people with obesity and sedentary lifestyles often have sleep disorders. Despite the potential associations, metabolic disturbances linking obesity, sarcopenia, and sleep disorders with cancer are neither well-defined nor understood fully. Abnormal levels of adipokines and adipomyokines originating from both adipose tissue and skeletal muscles are observed in some patients with obesity, sarcopenia and sleep disorders, as well as in cancer patients. This warrants investigation with respect to carcinogenesis. Adipokines and adipomyokines may exert either pro-carcinogenic or anti-carcinogenic effects. These factors, acting independently or together, may significantly modulate the incidence and progression of cancer. This review indicates that one of the possible pathways influencing the development of cancer may be the mutual relationship between obesity and/or sarcopenia, sleep quantity and quality, and adipokines/adipomyokines excretion. Taking into account the high proportion of persons with obesity and sedentary lifestyles, as well as the associations of these conditions with sleep disturbances, more attention should be paid to the individual and combined effects on cancer pathophysiology.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment and ischemic heart disease among female patients with breast cancer: A cohort study

BACKGROUND

The risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD) due to the impact of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists among female patients with breast cancer remains a controversy.

METHODS

Information from the Registry for Catastrophic Illness, the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), and the Death Registry Database in Taiwan were analyzed. Female patients with breast cancer were selected from the Registry for Catastrophic Illness from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2018. All the breast cancer patients were followed until new-onset IHD diagnosis, death, or December 31, 2018. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve was drawn to show the difference between patients treated with and without GnRH agonists. The Cox regression analysis was used to investigate the effects of GnRH agonists and the incidence of IHD.

RESULTS

A total of 172,850 female patients with breast cancer were recognized with a mean age of 52.6 years. Among them, 6071(3.5%) had received GnRH agonist therapy. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed a significant difference between patients with and without GnRH therapy (log-rank p < 0.0001). Patients who received GnRH therapy had a significantly decreased risk of developing IHD than those without GnRH therapy (HR = 0.18; 95% CI = 0.14-0.23). After adjusting for age, treatment, and comorbidity, patients who received GnRH therapy still had a significantly lower risk of developing IHD (AHR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.39-0.64).

CONCLUSION

The study showed that the use of GnRH agonists for breast cancer treatment was significantly associated with a reduced risk of IHD. Further research is required to investigate the possible protective effect of GnRH on IHD.

Effect of continuous aerobic exercise on endothelial function: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background: Current research suggests that continuous aerobic exercise can be effective in improving vascular endothelial function, while the effect between different intensities and durations of exercise is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of different durations and intensities of aerobic exercise on vascular endothelial function in different populations. Methods: Searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases. We included studies that satisfied the following criteria: 1) randomized controlled trials (RCTs); 2) including both an intervention and control group; 3) using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) as the outcome measure; and 4) testing FMD on the brachial artery. Results: From 3,368 search records initially identified, 41 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. There was a significant effect of continuous aerobic exercise on improving flow-mediated dilation (FMD) [weighted mean difference (WMD), 2.55, (95% CI, 1.93-3.16), p < 0.001]. Specifically, moderate-intensity [2.92 (2.02-3.825), p < 0.001] and vigorous-intensity exercise [2.58 (1.64-3.53), p < 0.001] significantly increased FMD. In addition, a longer duration [<12 weeks, 2.25 (1.54-2.95), p < 0.001; ≥12 weeks, 2.74 (1.95-3.54), p < 0.001], an older age [age <45, 2.09 (0.78-3.40), p = 0.002; 45 ≤ age <60, 2.25 (1.49-3.01), p < 0.001; age ≥60, 2.62 (1.31-3.94), p < 0.001], a larger basal body mass index (BMI) [20 < BMI < 25, 1.43 (0.98-1.88), p < 0.001; 25 ≤ BMI < 30, 2.49 (1.07-3.90), p < 0.001; BMI ≥ 30, 3.05 (1.69-4.42), p < 0.001], and a worse basal FMD [FMD < 4, 2.71 (0.92-4.49), p = 0.003; 4 ≤ FMD < 7, 2.63 (2.03-3.23), p < 0.001] were associated with larger improvements in FMD. Conclusion: Continuous aerobic exercise, especially moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, contributed to improving FMD. The effect of continuous aerobic exercise on improving FMD was associated with duration and participant's characteristics. Specifically, a longer duration, an older age, a larger basal BMI, and a worse basal FMD contributed to more significant improvements in FMD. Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=341442], identifier [CRD42022341442].

Estimating the role of single-nucleotide polymorphism (rs1800629)-308 G/A of TNF-alpha gene as genetic marker associated with angina pectoris in a sample of Iraqi patients

BACKGROUND

Angina pectoris (AP) occurs when oxygen and other nutrients are insufficient to meet the metabolic needs of the heart muscle. Stable angina is the most common, while the unstable angina is less frequent. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is a pleiotropic cytokine plays a vital function in the immune response regulation. TNF gene cluster contains many polymorphisms; the most commonly investigated polymorphism is the rs1800629 SNP. This SNP, located at - 308 position with regard to the TNF promoter region, replaces guanine (G) with adenine (A), with the allelic types - 308 G/A, and has been linked to a variety of inflammatory condition and autoimmune diseases. The - 308 G/A SNP was investigated in AP and interconnected to the TNF level to figure out the responsibilities of TNF-alpha gene polymorphism in the pathogenesis of AP.

METHOD

The current work design as a case-control study that involves 300 participant divided to 200 patients evaluated as (stable angina n = 100 and unstable angina n = 100) compared with 100 apparently healthy control subjects. The serum level of TNF-alpha was assessed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)/sandwich method. The genotype and allele frequency distribution of TNF-alpha rs1800629 gene polymorphism were investigated by TaqMan probe of allelic discrimination method.

RESULTS

The levels of TNF-alpha were significantly higher in patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris in comparison with controls. The deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) of TNF-alpha genotypes was obvious in control and unstable angina pectoris groups. Moreover, the significant differences between patients with AP and controls under the five genetic models consider the association between TNF-alpha (rs1800629) - 308 G/A and AP with OR > 1. However, data analysis of allelic and genotypic of (rs1800629) - 308 G/A revealed higher significantly differences of GG homozygous and GA heterozygous proportions between stable angina patients and control. The A allele was more represented as etiological allele, and G allele was represented as protective allele. The serum levels of TNF-alpha were significantly higher in subjects with genetically mutated AA genotypes than in subjects with wild GG genotypes in the study groups. ROC curve analysis found the best cutoff value of TNF-alpha level was 77.25 pg/ml.

CONCLUSION

As the results, our data observed a linked of TNF-alpha (rs1800629) - 308 G/A genetic variant with angina pectoris patients, and the A allele has been linked to the production or expression of TNF-alpha serum level and represented an etiological factor of angina pectoris.

Expression of Steroid Receptor RNA Activator 1 (SRA1) in the Adipose Tissue Is Associated with TLRs and IRFs in Diabesity

Steroid receptor RNA activator gene (SRA1) emerges as a player in pathophysiological responses of adipose tissue (AT) in metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We previously showed association of the AT SRA1 expression with inflammatory cytokines/chemokines involved in metabolic derangement. However, the relationship between altered adipose expression of SRA1 and the innate immune Toll-like receptors (TLRs) as players in nutrient sensing and metabolic inflammation as well as their downstream signaling partners, including interferon regulatory factors (IRFs), remains elusive. Herein, we investigated the association of AT SRA1 expression with TLRs, IRFs, and other TLR-downstream signaling mediators in a cohort of 108 individuals, classified based on their body mass index (BMI) as persons with normal-weight (N = 12), overweight (N = 32), and obesity (N = 64), including 55 with and 53 without T2D. The gene expression of SRA1, TLRs-2,3,4,7,8,9,10 and their downstream signaling mediators including IRFs-3,4,5, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) were determined using qRT-PCR and SRA1 protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. AT SRA1 transcripts' expression was significantly correlated with TLRs-3,4,7, MyD88, NF-κB, and IRF5 expression in individuals with T2D, while it associated with TLR9 and TRAF6 expression in all individuals, with/without T2D. SRA1 expression associated with TLR2, IRAK1, and IRF3 expression only in individuals with obesity, regardless of diabetes status. Furthermore, TLR3/TLR7/IRAK1 and TLR3/TLR9 were identified as independent predictors of AT SRA1 expression in individuals with obesity and T2D, respectively. Overall, our data demonstrate a direct association between the AT SRA1 expression and the TLRs together with their downstream signaling partners and IRFs in individuals with obesity and/or T2D.

Quercetin improves high-fat diet-induced obesity by modulating gut microbiota and metabolites in C57BL/6J mice

High-fat diet-induced obesity is characterized by low-grade inflammation, which has been linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis. We hypothesized that quercetin supplementation would alter gut microbiota and reduce inflammation in obese mice. Male C57BL/6J mice, 4 weeks of age, were divided into 3 groups, including a low-fat diet group, a high-fat diet (HFD) group, and a high-fat diet plus quercetin (HFD+Q) group. The mice in HFD+Q group were given 50 mg per kg BW quercetin by gavage for 20 weeks. The body weight, fat accumulation, gut barrier function, glucose tolerance, and adipose tissue inflammation were determined in mice. 16 s rRNA amplicon sequence and non-targeted metabolomics analysis were used to explore the alteration of gut microbiota and metabolites. We found that quercetin significantly alleviated HFD-induced obesity, improved glucose tolerance, recovered gut barrier function, and reduced adipose tissue inflammation. Moreover, quercetin ameliorated HFD-induced gut microbiota disorder by regulating the abundance of gut microbiota, such as Adlercreutzia, Allobaculum, Coprococcus_1, Lactococcus, and Akkermansia. Quercetin influenced the production of metabolites that were linked to alterations in obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress, such as Glycerophospho-N-palmitoyl ethanolamine, sanguisorbic acid dilactone, O-Phospho-L-serine, and P-benzoquinone. Our results demonstrate that the anti-obesity effects of quercetin may be mediated through regulation in gut microbiota and metabolites.

Role of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissues in the Pathophysiology of Secondary Lymphedema

Background: Secondary lymphedema (LE) occurs due to the disruption of lymphatic circulation. Lymphatic fluid accumulation in subcutaneous tissues induces adipocyte proliferation. Obesity is an important risk factor for the occurrence and deterioration of LE. Although the relationship between LE and subcutaneous adipose tissue increase has been reported clinically, their pathophysiological relationship remains unknown. Thus, we aimed to verify whether subcutaneous adipose tissue increase is involved in the pathophysiology of secondary LE. Methods and Results: The hindlimb model of secondary LE was created using male Sprague-Dawley rats (control and LE groups; n = 5 each). Skin samples were obtained on postoperative day 168. Histological examination and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of inflammatory adipokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (Tnf-α), C-C chemokine ligand 2 (Ccl2), and interleukin-6 (Il-6) were performed. Limb volume and subcutaneous adipose tissues significantly increased in the LE group compared with those in the control. Macrophages aggregated in the augmented adipose tissues, around the adipocytes, and formed crown-like structures (CLSs). The number of CLSs significantly increased in the LE group. These macrophages expressed transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1). Inflammatory adipokine secretion was not observed. Although Il-6 expression increased in the LE group, IL-6 was expressed in subcutaneous myofibroblasts but not in subcutaneous adipocytes. Conclusion: As TGF-β1 derived from subcutaneous myofibroblasts is involved in skin fibrosis during LE, TGF-β1 derived from adipose tissues may also play a similar role. Drug treatment for subcutaneous adipose tissue reduction may improve the skin condition in secondary LE and may be a new therapeutic strategy.

Effects of exercise combined with diet intervention on body composition and serum biochemical markers in adolescents with obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of exercise combined with diet (ECWD), exercise alone, diet alone, and no intervention on body composition and serum biochemical markers in adolescents with obesity to provide reference for solving the metabolic disorders of adolescents caused by obesity.

CONTENTS

Studies published before January 5, 2021 were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang data, VIP database, and SinoMed. Randomized controlled trials with an age between 10 and 20 years, body mass index (BMI) ≥28 kg/m² or ≥95th percentiles, no history of endocrine and metabolic diseases, heart disease, hematologic disease, and so on before the trial were included.

SUMMARY

Fifteen of the 50,155 studies met the criteria. Meta-analysis showed that ECWD was more effective in reducing BMI (kg/m²) (-2.45 kg/m², 95% CI: -3.06; -1.85) and fat thickness of back (-13.77 mm, 95% CI: -15.92; -11.62), abdomen (-11.56 mm, 95% CI: -14.04; -9.09), and upper arm (-14.81 mm, 95% CI: -16.74; -12.89) than other interventions; in reducing body fat (-7.03 kg, 95% CI: -9.77; -4.29) and thigh circumference (-4.05 cm, 95% CI: -5.58; -2.52), ECWD and diet alone were more effective than exercise alone; ECWD and exercise alone were more effective in reducing waist circumference (-6.05 cm, 95% CI: -8.37; -3.72), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; -0.06, 95% CI: -0.11; -0.01), upper arm circumference (-2.57 cm, 95% CI: -3.70; -1.45), triglycerides (TG; -0.30 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.45; -0.14), total cholesterol (TC; -0.30 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.59; -0.01), and low density lipoprotein (LDL; -0.22 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.40; -0.04) than diet alone. ECWD also had effects on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6, leptin, and so on.

OUTLOOK

ECWD is more effective than exercise alone, diet alone, or no intervention in solving the problems of body shape and metabolic disorder of adolescents with obesity.

Anti-adipogenic activities of pheophorbide a and pyropheophorbide a isolated from wild bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L. var. abbreviata Seringe) in vitro

BACKGROUND

The wild bitter gourd (WBG) is a commonly consumed vegetable in Asia that has antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-adipogenic activities of isolated compounds from WBG on 8-day differentiated cultures of 3 T3-L1 adipocytes that were then stained with Oil Red O (ORO) or diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI).

RESULTS

ORO stains of the methanol extracts of de-seeded HM86 cultivar of WBG (WBG-M) and the ethyl acetate fractions (WBG-M-EA) showed anti-adipogenic activities against differentiated adipocytes. Two chlorophyll-degraded compounds, pheophorbide a (1) and pyropheophorbide a (2), were isolated from WBG-M-EA. Treatments with 1 (5, 10, and 20 μmol L^-1 ) and 2 (2.5, 5, and 10 μmol L^-1 ) showed dose-dependent reductions in lipid accumulations and reduced nuclear DAPI stains in differentiated 3 T3-L1 adipocytes. The concentrations for 50% inhibition against lipid accumulations of 1 and 2, respectively, were 16.05 and 7.04 μmol L^-1 . Treatments with 1 and 2 showed enhanced lactate dehydrogenase release in the first 4-day cell mitotic clonal expansions during the differentiating cultural processes, although the effect was less on the non-differentiating cultural processes. Thus, 1 and 2 were more toxic to differentiating adipocytes than to non-differentiated pre-adipocytes, which partly resulted in anti-adipogenic activities with lowered lipid accumulations.

CONCLUSION

Both 1 and 2 showed anti-adipogenic activities in cell models. These chlorophyll-degraded compounds commonly exist in several vegetables during storage or edible seaweeds, which will provide resources for further investigations aiming to test anti-obesity in animal studies. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Inflammation Related to Obesity in the Etiopathogenesis of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) are rare neoplasms, which, due to their heterogeneous nature, non-specific symptoms, and lack of specific tumor markers pose many diagnostic and clinical challenges. In recent years, the effectiveness of GEP-NEN diagnosis has increased, which is probably associated with the greater availability of diagnostic tests and the cooperation of many experienced specialists in various scientific disciplines. In addition to the possible genetic etiology, the cause of GEP-NET development is not fully understood. Inflammation and obesity are known risks that contribute to the development of many diseases. Chronic inflammation accompanying obesity affects the hormonal balance and cell proliferation and causes the impairment of the immune system function, leading to neoplastic transformation. This review explores the role of inflammation and obesity in GEP-NETs. The exact mechanisms inducing tumor growth are unknown; however, the profile of inflammatory factors released in the GEP-NET tumor microenvironment is responsible for the progression or inhibition of tumor growth. Both the excess of adipose tissue and the impaired function of the immune system affect not only the initiation of cancer but also reduce the comfort and lifetime of patients.

Prevention and Treatment of Obesity-Related Inflammatory Diseases by Edible and Medicinal Plants and Their Active Compounds

Obesity, defined by excessive fat mass and its associated low-grade chronic inflammation, leads to insulin resistance, diabetes, and metabolic dysfunctions. The immunomodulatory properties of natural agents have gained much interest in recent decades. Some of the plant-derived agents are known to be immunomodulators that can affect both innate and adaptive immunity, e.g., thymoquinone, curcumin, punicalagin, resveratrol, quercetin, and genistein. Natural immunomodulators may contribute to the treatment of a number of inflammatory diseases, as they have significant efficacy and safety profiles. The immunomodulatory effects of traditional Greco-Arab and Islamic diets and medicinal plants are well acknowledged in abundant in vitro studies as well as in animal studies and clinical trials. This review highlights the role of Greco-Arab and Islamic diets and medicinal plants in the management of inflammation associated with obesity. Although previously published review articles address the effects of medicinal plants and phytochemicals on obesity-related inflammation, there is no systematic review that emphasizes clinical trials of the clinical significance of these plants and phytochemicals. Given this limitation, the objective of this comprehensive review is to critically evaluate the potential of the most used herbs in the management of obesity-related inflammation based on clinical trials.

Accuracy of Y-scope, a newly developed portable abdominal impedance analyzer, for the assessment of abdominal visceral fat area

Aim

This study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of a newly developed multifrequency segmental (MFS) bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method using an additional portable abdominal (PA) impedance analyzer, in the assessment of abdominal visceral fat area (VFA).

Materials and methods

One hundred healthy Korean subjects aged 19 years or over (43 men and 57 women) were recruited, and VFA was estimated by a conventional MFS-BIA machine and a new MFS-BIA machine with a PA-BIA device, indicating MFS-VFA and MFS&PA-VFA, respectively. The accuracy of the VFA values was compared with those evaluated with CT at the level of the umbilicus (CT-VFA).

Results

The mean age was 41 years and mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.4 kg/m². The mean ± SD VFAs measured by CT, conventional MFS-BIA, and new MFS&PA-BIA together were 93.4 ± 60.9, 92.7 ± 53.4, and 93.6 ± 55.4 cm², respectively. Correlation coefficients comparing CT-VFA with MFS-VFA and MFS&PA-VFA were 0.612 and 0.932, respectively (P < 0.001 for both). The mean difference between CT-VFA and MFS&PA-VFA was less affected by age, sex, and BMI compared with that between CT-VFA and MFS-VFA. Intraclass correlation coefficient (95% CI) between CT-VFA and MFS&PA-VFA was also greater than that between CT-VFA and MFS-VFA, 0.96 (0.95–0.98) vs. 0.76 (0.64–0.84), respectively.

Conclusion

In this study, application of a newly developed MFS-BIA machine combined with a PA-BIA device significantly improved the correlation with CT-measured VFA without proportional error. This novel approach using advanced technology may be able to provide more reliable estimates of abdominal VFA.

Epicardial Fat Volume Is Associated with Endothelial Dysfunction, but not with Coronary Calcification: From the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

BACKGROUND

The increase in epicardial fat volume (EFV) is related to coronary artery disease (CAD), independent of visceral or subcutaneous fat. The mechanism underlying this association is unclear. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and endothelial dysfunction are related to coronary events, but whether EFV is related to these markers needs further clarification.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the association between automatically measured EFV, cardiovascular risk factors, CAC, and endothelial function.

METHODS

In 470 participants from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) with measures of EFV, CAC score and endothelial function, we performed multivariable models to evaluate the relation between cardiovascular risk factors and EFV (response variable), and between EFV (explanatory variable) and endothelial function variables or CAC score. Two-sided p <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Mean age was 55 ± 8 years, 52.3% of patients were men. Mean EFV was 111mL (IQ 86-144), and the prevalence of CAC score=0 was 55%. In the multivariable analyses, increased EFV was related to female sex, older age, waist circumference, and triglycerides (p<0.001 for all). Higher EFV was associated with worse endothelial function: as compared with the first quartile, the odds ratio for basal pulse amplitude were (q2=1.22, 95%CI 1.07-1.40; q3=1.50, 95%CI 1.30-1.74; q4=1.50, 95%CI 1.28-1.79) and for peripheral arterial tonometry ratio were (q2=0.87, 95%CI 0.81-0.95; q3=0.86, 95%CI 0.79-0.94; q4=0.80, 95%CI 0.73-0.89), but not with CAC score>0.

CONCLUSION

Higher EFV was associated with impaired endothelial function, but not with CAC. The results suggest that EFV is related to the development of CAD through a pathway different from the CAC pathway, possibly through aggravation of endothelial dysfunction and microvascular disease.

Genetic pleiotropy underpinning adiposity and inflammation in self-identified Hispanic/Latino populations

BACKGROUND

Concurrent variation in adiposity and inflammation suggests potential shared functional pathways and pleiotropic disease underpinning. Yet, exploration of pleiotropy in the context of adiposity-inflammation has been scarce, and none has included self-identified Hispanic/Latino populations. Given the high level of ancestral diversity in Hispanic American population, genetic studies may reveal variants that are infrequent/monomorphic in more homogeneous populations.

METHODS

Using multi-trait Adaptive Sum of Powered Score (aSPU) method, we examined individual and shared genetic effects underlying inflammatory (CRP) and adiposity-related traits (Body Mass Index [BMI]), and central adiposity (Waist to Hip Ratio [WHR]) in HLA participating in the Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) cohort (N = 35,871) with replication of effects in the Cameron County Hispanic Cohort (CCHC) which consists of Mexican American individuals.

RESULTS

Of the > 16 million SNPs tested, variants representing 7 independent loci were found to illustrate significant association with multiple traits. Two out of 7 variants were replicated at statistically significant level in multi-trait analyses in CCHC. The lead variant on APOE (rs439401) and rs11208712 were found to harbor multi-trait associations with adiposity and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this study demonstrate the importance of considering pleiotropy for improving our understanding of the etiology of the various metabolic pathways that regulate cardiovascular disease development.

The Role of B Lymphocyte Subsets in Adipose Tissue Development, Metabolism, and Aging

Adipose tissue contains resident B lymphocytes (B cells) with varying immune functions and mechanisms, depending on the adipose depot type and location. The heterogeneity of B cells and their functions affect the immunometabolism of the adipose tissue in aging and age-associated metabolic disorders. B cells exist in categorizations of subsets that have developmental or phenotypic differences with varying functionalities. Subsets can be categorized as either protective or pathogenic depending on their secretion profile or involvement in metabolic maintenance. In this article, we summarized recent finding on the B cell heterogeneity and discuss how we can utilize our current knowledge of adipose resident B lymphocytes for potential treatment for age-associated metabolic disorders. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12: 1-13, 2022.

Raman studies of the adipose tissue: Current state-of-art and future perspectives in diagnostics

The last decades revealed that the adipose tissue shows an unexplored therapeutic potential. In particular, targeting the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), that surrounds blood vessels, can prevent cardiovascular pathologies and browning of the adipose tissue can become an effective strategy against obesity. Therefore, new analytical tools are necessary to analyze this tissue. This review reports on the recent developments of various Raman-based techniques for the identification and quantification of the adipose tissue compared to conventional analytical methods. In particular, the emphasis is on analysis of PVAT, investigation of pathological changes of the adipose tissue in model systems and possibilities for its characterization in the clinical context. Overall, the review critically discusses the potential and limitations of Raman techniques in adipose tissue-targeted diagnostics and possible future anti-obesity therapies.

Proteomic Profiles of Body Mass Index and Waist-to-Hip Ratio and Their Role in Incidence of Diabetes

CONTEXT

It is unclear to what extent the plasma proteome of abdominal fat distribution differs from that of body mass index, and whether the differences have clinical implications.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the difference between the plasma proteomic profiles of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and then examine the identified BMI- or WHR-specific proteins in relation to incidence of diabetes.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Malmö Diet and Cancer-Cardiovascular Cohort study in the general community. Participants (n = 4203) with no previous diabetes (aged 57.2 ± 6.0 years, 37.8% men) were included. Plasma proteins (n = 136) were measured by the Proseek proximity extension method. BMI- and WHR-specific proteins were identified at baseline using a 2-step iterative resampling approach to optimize internal replicability followed by β coefficient comparisons. The identified proteins were considered internally replicated and were then studied in relation to incident diabetes by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. The main outcome measure was incident diabetes over a mean follow-up of 20.3 ± 5.9 years.

RESULTS

After excluding 21 overlapping proteins and proteins that did not show significantly different associations with BMI vs WHR, 10 internally replicated proteins were found to be specific to BMI, and 22 were found to be specific to WHR (false discovery rate-adjusted P < .05). Of the WHR-specific proteins, 18 remained associated with diabetes risk after multivariate adjustments, whereas none of the BMI-specific proteins showed associations with diabetes risk.

CONCLUSION

Abdominal fat distribution was associated with some unique characteristics of the plasma proteome that potentially could be related to its additional risk of diabetes beyond general obesity.

Obesity augments the disease burden in COVID-19: Updated data from an umbrella review

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic calls for identification of risk factors, which may help to identify people at enhanced risk for severe disease outcomes to improve treatment and, if possible, establish prophylactic measures. This study aimed to determine whether individuals with obesity compared to individuals with normal weight have an increased risk for severe COVID-19. We conducted a systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library and critically reviewed the secondary literature using AMSTAR-2. We explored 27 studies. Findings indicate that individuals with obesity (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m² ), as compared to individuals without obesity, experience an increased risk for hospitalization (odds ratio [OR]: 1.40-2.45), admission to the intensive care unit (OR: 1.30-2.32), invasive mechanical ventilation (OR: 1.47-2.63), and the composite outcome 'severe outcome' (OR or risk ratio: 1.62-4.31). We found diverging results concerning death to COVID-19, but data trended towards increased mortality. Comparing individuals with obesity to individuals without obesity, findings suggested younger individuals (<60 years) experience a higher risk of severe disease compared to older individuals (≥60 years). Obesity augments the severity of COVID-19 including a tendency to increased mortality and, thus, contributes to an increased disease burden, especially among younger individuals.

The Relationship between F2-Isoprostanes Plasma Levels and Depression Symptoms in Healthy Older Adults

The increasing proportion of older citizens in our society reflects a need to better understand age-related biological underpinnings of mood, as depression in older age may be under-diagnosed. Pre-clinical and human studies evidence a relationship between oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers in depression symptoms, and an influence of biological factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI), but focus has been clinical or younger samples, and less is known about patterns in healthy older adults. We investigated these associations with data derived from the Australian Research Council Longevity Study (ARCLI; ANZCTR12611000487910), in 568 healthy adults aged 60–75 years using F₂-Isoprostanes plasma levels, and controlling for demographic factors, in assessing mood via the Beck Depression Inventory-II, Chalder Fatigue Scale, and General Health Questionnaire 12. Elevated F₂-Isoprostanes contributed to depressed mood on the BDI-II and reduced general health on the GHQ-12. BMI was positively associated with Chalder Fatigue scores, yet better ratings on the GHQ-12. Females had significantly higher F₂-Isoprostanes than males. The results suggest that in otherwise healthy older adults, mood and mental health are reduced with increases in oxidative stress markers, exhibiting similar patterns observed in clinical groups. Sex as a factor should be considered when assessing OS levels in systemic pathologies. BMI as a modifiable risk factor for maintenance of mental health, and OS modification through nutrient supplementation, are discussed. The findings contribute to understanding oxidative stress marker patterns in healthy older adults and their potential role in mood symptoms and mental health.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms as important risk factors of diabetes among Middle East population

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that leads to the dysfunction of various tissues and organs, including eyes, kidneys, and cardiovascular system. According to the World Health Organization, diabetes prevalence is 8.8% globally among whom about 90% of cases are type 2 diabetes. There are not any significant clinical manifestations in the primary stages of diabetes. Therefore, screening can be an efficient way to reduce the diabetic complications. Over the recent decades, the prevalence of diabetes has increased alarmingly among the Middle East population, which has imposed exorbitant costs on the health care system in this region. Given that the genetic changes are among the important risk factors associated with predisposing people to diabetes, we examined the role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the pathogenesis of diabetes among Middle East population. In the present review, we assessed the molecular pathology of diabetes in the Middle East population that paves the way for introducing an efficient SNP-based diagnostic panel for diabetes screening among the Middle East population. Since, the Middle East has a population of 370 million people; the current review can be a reliable model for the introduction of SNP-based diagnostic panels in other populations and countries around the world.

Angiogenesis, Metabolism, Endothelial and Platelet Markers in Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease

Introduction: Diabetes is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the pathophysiology of both being linked to metabolic, endothelial, renal, angiogenic and platelet abnormalities. We hypothesised that abnormalities in these systems are more adverse in those whose CVD is compounded by diabetes, compared to those with diabetes or CVD alone.

Materials and methods: Serum or plasma from 66 patients with diabetes alone, 76 with CVD alone, and 70 with both diabetes and CVD i.e. diabetic cardiovascular disease, was probed for markers of angiogenesis [angiopoietin 1 and 2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and endoglin], metabolic [soluble receptor for advanced glycation products (sRAGE), leptin, lipocalin-2, interleukin-8, and cystatin-C], the endothelium (von Willebrand factor, endothelial microparticles and soluble E selectin)], and the platelet (platelet microparticles and soluble P selectin) by ELISA, Luminex or flow cytometry.

Results: VEGF (p = 0.04), von Willebrand factor (p = 0.001) and endothelial microparticles (p = 0.042) were all higher in diabetic cardiovascular disease than in diabetes alone and cardiovascular disease alone. Soluble E selectin was higher in diabetic cardiovascular disease than in diabetes alone (p = 0.045), whilst cystatin-C (p = 0.004) and soluble P selectin (p < 0.001) were higher in diabetes and diabetic cardiovascular disease than in cardiovascular disease alone. There were no differences in angiopoietin 1 or 2, endoglin, sRAGE, leptin, lipocalin-2, or interleukin-8.

Conclusion: Angiopoietin 1 or 2, endoglin, sRAGE, leptin, lipocalin-2, interleukin-8, and cystatin-c cannot differentiate diabetes from cardiovascular disease, or both conditions combined. Our data point to a more adverse endothelial (von Willebrand factor, endothelial microparticles), and angiogenic profile (VEGF) in those with diabetic cardiovascular disease, supporting the view that this group should be targeted more aggressively.

In Vitro Antilipidic and Antithrombotic Activities of Plectranthus glandulosus (Lamiaceae) Leaves Extracts and Fractions

Objective

The present study investigated the effect of the leaves extracts and fractions of Plectranthus glandulosus on the inhibition of pancreatic lipase, cholesterol esterase, adipocytes lipid uptake, and antithrombotic activity which may be important in atherosclerosis development.

Methods

Aqueous, ethanolic, and hydroethanolic extracts of Plactranthus glandulosus were prepared by maceration. The hydroethanolic extract was fractionated into n-hexane, ethylacetate, and n-butanol fractions and their inhibition of pancreatic lipase, cholesterol esterase, adipocytes lipid uptake, and antithrombotic activities measured. Liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) analysis was carried out to determine phytochemical constituents present in the extracts.

Results

The standard orlistat exhibited a higher inhibitory activity on pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase (16.31 μg/mL and 15.75 μg/mL, respectively) compared to ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀, 17.70 μg/mL and IC₅₀, 24.8 μg/mL, respectively). Among crude extract, hydroethanolic extract showed a better inhibition against pancreatic lipase (IC₅₀, 21.06 μg/mL) and cholesterol esterase (IC₅₀, 25.14 μg/mL) though not comparable to the effect of orlistat. The best lipid uptake inhibition was observed in the hydroethanolic extract (IC₅₀, 45.42 μg/mL) followed by the ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀, 47.77 μg/mL). A better antithrombolytic activity was exhibited by the ethyl acetate fraction at all concentrations (50-800 μ/mL), while hydroethanolic extract exhibited the best activity among crude extract. However, these were not comparable to the standard aspirin. The LC-HRMS analysis revealed the presence of 7-O-methyl luteolin 5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, chrysoeriol 5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, 5,7-dihydroxy-3,2′,4′-trimethoxyflavone, and plectranmicin as major compounds in both hydroethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction.

Conclusion

Thus, our finding supports the traditional use of this plant, which might provide a potential source for future antiatherosclerotic drug discovery.

Indole-3-Acetic Acid Alters Intestinal Microbiota and Alleviates Ankylosing Spondylitis in Mice

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a systemic, chronic, and inflammatory autoimmune disease associated with the disorder of intestinal microbiota. Unfortunately, effective therapies for AS are lacking. Recent evidence has indicated that indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), an important microbial tryptophan metabolite, can modulate intestinal homeostasis and suppress inflammatory responses. However, reports have not examined the in vivo protective effects of IAA against AS. In this study, we investigated the protective effects and underlying mechanisms through which IAA acts against AS. We constructed a proteoglycan (PG)-induced AS mouse model and administered IAA (50 mg/kg body weight) by intraperitoneal injection daily for 4 weeks. The effects of IAA on AS mice were evaluated by examining disease severity, intestinal barrier function, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, T-helper 17 (Th17)/T regulatory (Treg) balance, and inflammatory cytokine levels. The intestinal microbiota compositions were profiled through whole-genome sequencing. We observed that IAA decreased the incidence and severity of AS in mice, inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α], interleukin [IL]-6, IL-17A, and IL-23), promoted the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and reduced the ratios of pro-/anti- inflammatory cytokines. IAA ameliorated pathological changes in the ileum and improved intestinal mucosal barrier function. IAA also activated the AhR pathway, upregulated the transcription factor forehead box protein P3 (FoxP3) and increased Treg cells, and downregulated the transcription factors retinoic acid receptor–related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and decreased Th17 cells. Furthermore, IAA altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota composition by increasing Bacteroides and decreasing Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, in addition to increasing the abundances of Bifidobacterium pseudolongum and Mucispirillum schaedleri. In conclusion, IAA exerted several protective effects against PG-induced AS in mice, which was mediated by the restoration of balance among the intestinal microbial community, activating the AhR pathway, and inhibiting inflammation. IAA might represent a novel therapeutic approach for AS.

Iron Metabolism in Normal and Pathological Pregnancies and Fetal Consequences

Iron is required for energy production, DNA synthesis, and cell proliferation, mainly as a component of the prosthetic group in hemoproteins and as part of iron-sulfur clusters. Iron is also a critical component of hemoglobin and plays an important role in oxygen delivery. Imbalances in iron metabolism negatively affect these vital functions. As the crucial barrier between the fetus and the mother, the placenta plays a pivotal role in iron metabolism during pregnancy. Iron deficiency affects 1.2 billion individuals worldwide. Pregnant women are at high risk of developing or worsening iron deficiency. On the contrary, in frequent hemoglobin diseases, such as sickle-cell disease and thalassemia, iron overload is observed. Both iron deficiency and iron overload can affect neonatal development. This review aims to provide an update on our current knowledge on iron and heme metabolism in normal and pathological pregnancies. The main molecular actors in human placental iron metabolism are described, focusing on the impact of iron deficiency and hemoglobin diseases on the placenta, together with normal metabolism. Then, we discuss data concerning iron metabolism in frequent pathological pregnancies to complete the picture, focusing on the most frequent diseases.

Prevention of Osteoarthritis Progression by Statins, Targeting Metabolic and Inflammatory Aspects: A Review

Background and purpose:

Several traditional risk factors of atherosclerosis such as age, obesity, and altered lipid metabolism are shared with osteoarthritis (OA). Metabolic abnormalities and atheromatous vascular disease are linked with systemic inflammation and progression of OA. Hence, treatment of OA with statins is expected to improve metabolic abnormalities and prevent OA progression. Many studies which have addressed this issue found inconsistent results. This review aims to elucidate the effect of statins in OA by summarizing the existing data.

Methods:

Potential studies in English language published in Medline/PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar since 2000 were searched by using keywords such as osteoarthritis, statins, progression, treatment, prevalence, synovitis, pain. Fourteen papers were found to be relevant and were summarised.

Results:

Data regarding symptomatic effect of statins in OA are scarce and the results varied from no effect to a small improvement or even increased risk of pain in knee OA. However, most studies on the incidence and progression of OA found a significant decreased risk of incident OA, as well as reduced risk of radiographic progression in statin users vs. non-users. Factors such as patient adherence, duration of treatment, and higher cumulative statin doses were associated with greater efficacy.

Conclusion:

Existing data indicate a preventing effect of statin therapy on OA progression. However, unless a formal meta-analysis with weight analysis is made, a conclusion cannot be drawn.

Wheat grain phenolics: a review on composition, bioactivity, and influencing factors

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a widely cultivated crop and one of the most commonly consumed food grains in the world. It possesses several nutritional elements. Increasing attention to wheat grain phenolics bioactivity is due to the increasing demand for foods with natural antioxidants. To provide a comprehensive understanding of phenolics in wheat grain, this review first summarizes the phenolics' form and distribution and the phenolic components identified in wheat grain. In particular, the biosynthesis path for phenolics is discussed, identifying some candidate genes involved in the biosynthesis of phenolic acids and flavonoids. After discussing the methods for determining antioxidant activity, the effect of genotypes, environmental conditions, and cultivation systems on grain phenolic component content are explored. Finally, the bioavailability of phenolics under different food processing method are reported and discussed. Future research is recommended to increase wheat grain phenolic content by genetic engineering, and to improve its bioavailability through proper food processing. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Association between low skeletal muscle mass and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in asymptomatic individuals evaluated by CT

AIM

To investigate the associations of skeletal muscle area and density with coronary atherosclerotic plaques and significant stenosis in asymptomatic adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 243 consecutive subjects who had voluntarily undergone abdominal unenhanced computed tomography (CT) and coronary CT angiography (CCTA) as part of a general health examination were investigated retrospectively. Skeletal muscle area index (SMI) and skeletal muscle density (SMD) was assessed using CT. Coronary atherosclerotic plaques and stenosis on CCTA were evaluated. The associations of low SMI and low SMD with coronary atherosclerotic plaques and significant stenosis were determined by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, there were significant associations of low SMI or low SMD with atherosclerotic plaque, total significant stenosis, and significant stenosis caused by calcified or mixed plaques (for all p<0.05). In addition, multivariate regression analysis also showed that low SMI was independently associated with calcified plaque (p=0.038) and non-calcified plaque (p=0.006), and individuals with low SMD were more likely to have mixed plaque (p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

Assessment of the skeletal muscle on CT help to identify asymptomatic adults at risk for coronary atherosclerosis.

COVID-19 infection and body weight: A deleterious liaison in a J-curve relationship

During the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, obesity has been shown to be an independent risk factor for high morbidity and mortality. Obesity confers poor outcomes in younger (<60 years) patients, an age-group considered low-risk for complications, a privilege that is negated by obesity. Findings are consistent, the higher the body mass index (BMI) the worse the outcomes. Ectopic (visceral) obesity also promotes proinflammatory, prothrombotic, and vasoconstrictive states, thus enhancing the deleterious effects of COVID-19 disease. Less, albeit robust, evidence also exists for a higher risk of COVID-19 infection incurred with underweight. Thus, the relationship of COVID-19 and BMI has a J-curve pattern, where patients with both overweight/obesity and underweight are more susceptible to the ailments of COVID-19. The pathophysiology underlying this link is multifactorial, mostly relating to the inflammatory state characterizing obesity, the impaired immune response to infectious agents coupled with increased viral load, the overexpression in adipose tissue of the receptors and proteases for viral entry, an increased sympathetic activity, limited cardiorespiratory reserve, a prothrombotic milieu, and the associated comorbidities. All these issues are herein reviewed, the results of large studies and meta-analyses are tabulated and the pathogenetic mechanisms and the BMI relationship with COVID-19 are pictorially illustrated.

Comparative effects of on-pump versus off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery on serum cytokine and chemokine levels

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery with two methods (on-pump or off-pump) can be used to rescue individuals with severe coronary artery disease (CAD). Each method might cause an inflammatory response, which can lead to some complications. The aim of this study was to compare the changes in serum concentrations of IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, VEGF, MCP-1, and epidermal growth factor between the two CABG surgery methods. Forty-eight patients (22 = on-pump, 26 = off-pump) who underwent on-pump or off-pump CABG surgery were enrolled in this study. Serum cytokines levels were measured in two blood samples, the first sample was taken from each patient in the morning of the day of surgery after a 12-hr fasting and the second sample on the first postoperative day at 24-hr after surgery. In baseline, comparisons between the two groups of on-pump/off-pump surgery did not show any significant difference in demographic data, anthropometric parameters, lipid profile indices, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels (p > .05). There was a significant difference between the serum levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), IFN-γ, and MCP-1 in patients with on-pump surgery and a significant increase in serum IL-6 (p < .001), IL8 (p < .05), VEGF (p < .001), and IFN-γ (p < .01) levels in patients with off-pump surgery in post-operation stage compared to pre-operation. Cardiopulmonary pump in patients under CABG surgery can activate systemic inflammation and the changes of serum cytokines levels in off-pump CABG were lower compared with on-pump CABG.

CXCL16 may be a predisposing factor to atherosclerosis: An animal study

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory process initiated when lipoprotein is retained in the arterial wall. Leukocyte recruitment accelerates this process. CXC chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16) acts as a chemokine to attract immune cells and also facilitates the phagocytosis process of modified low‑density lipoprotein. Whether CXCL16 promotes or inhibits the pathological process of AS remains to be elucidated. To clarify this, CXCL16 gene was introduced into C57BL/6J wild‑type mice to establish a stable CXCL16 overexpression mouse model. The initial changes of AS in mice were induced by high‑fat diet (HFD). To study how the interaction of HFD and CXCL16 affected fatty acid metabolism and deposition, body weight and plasma lipid profile were assessed. Soluble CXCL16, matrix metalloproteinase‑9, monocyte chemoattractant protein‑1 and intercellular adhesion molecule‑1 were detected by immunohistochemistry and ELISA to identify how CXCL16 affects AS lesion formation. The present study suggested that overexpression of CXCL16 combined with HFD lead to atherogenesis by upregulating the aforementioned inflammatory related genes at a protein level. The present study was the first, to the best of the authors' knowledge, to build a CXCL16 homozygous transgenic mice model to study how overexpressed CXCL16 is associated with AS for intervening in the occurrence and development of AS.

Are Pregnant Women Who Are Living with Overweight or Obesity at Greater Risk of Developing Iron Deficiency/Anaemia?

Low-grade inflammation is often present in people living with obesity. Inflammation can impact iron uptake and metabolism through elevation of hepcidin levels. Obesity is a major public health issue globally, with pregnant women often affected by the condition. Maternal obesity is associated with increased pregnancy risks including iron deficiency (ID) and iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA)-conditions already highly prevalent in pregnant women and their newborns. This comprehensive review assesses whether the inflammatory state induced by obesity could contribute to an increased incidence of ID/IDA in pregnant women and their children. We discuss the challenges in accurate measurement of iron status in the presence of inflammation, and available iron repletion strategies and their effectiveness in pregnant women living with obesity. We suggest that pre-pregnancy obesity and overweight/obese pregnancies carry a greater risk of ID/IDA for the mother during pregnancy and postpartum period, as well as for the baby. We propose iron status and weight gain during pregnancy should be monitored more closely in women who are living with overweight or obesity.

The Role of Exercise, Diet, and Cytokines in Preventing Obesity and Improving Adipose Tissue

The prevalence of obesity continues to rise worldwide despite evidence-based public health recommendations. The promise to adopt a healthy lifestyle is increasingly important for tackling this global epidemic. Calorie restriction or regular exercise or a combination of the two is accepted as an effective strategy in preventing or treating obesity. Furthermore, the benefits conferred by regular exercise to overcome obesity are attributed not only to reduced adiposity or reduced levels of circulating lipids but also to the proteins, peptides, enzymes, and metabolites that are released from contracting skeletal muscle or other organs. The secretion of these molecules called cytokines in response to exercise induces browning of white adipose tissue by increasing the expression of brown adipocyte-specific genes within the white adipose tissue, suggesting that exercise-induced cytokines may play a significant role in preventing obesity. In this review, we present research-based evidence supporting the effects of exercise and various diet interventions on preventing obesity and adipose tissue health. We also discuss the interplay between adipose tissue and the cytokines secreted from skeletal muscle and other organs that are known to affect adipose tissue and metabolism.

Inflammatory and endothelial dysfunction indices among Egyptian females with obesity classes I-III

Background: Obesity is an alarming threat to health in Egypt. More than one in three Egyptians is obese, the highest rate in the world. We aimed to delineate the variability of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction markers among Egyptian females with different obesity classes. Methods: Out of 130 females, 70 were categorized into three obesity groups: Class I, body mass index (BMI) 30–34.9 kg/m²; Class II, BMI 35–39.9 kg/m² and Class III BMI ≥ 40 kg/m², besides 60 control subjects. Anthropometric measurements were recorded and serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL) 6 (IL-6), IL-12, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1) and soluble vascular adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) were assessed among participants. Results: In all three classes of obesity, significant increase (P <0.05) in BMI, waist-hip ratio, fat mass and body fat mass % were noted. CRP and sVCAM-1 levels were increased among the three obesity groups. TNF-α levels were increased in class II and III obesity groups. IL-6 and IL-12 levels were elevated in class I and class III groups. While, ICAM-1 levels were increased in class III obesity group. Conclusion: Based on individuals’ BMI, serum levels of TNF-α, CRP, IL-6, IL-12, sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 are differentially altered with the progression of obesity. We strongly support the hypothesis that, as the obesity rate is still mounting, a subclinical inflammatory reaction has a role in pathogenesis of obesity and emphasize the elevation of endothelial dysfunction in individuals with obesity.

Low-Dose Coconut Oil Supplementation Induces Hypothalamic Inflammation, Behavioral Dysfunction, and Metabolic Damage in Healthy Mice

SCOPE

Coconut oil (CO) diets remain controversial due to the possible association with metabolic disorder and obesity. This study investigates the metabolic effects of a low amount of CO supplementation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Swiss male mice are assigned to be supplemented orally during 8 weeks with 300 µL of water for the control group (CV), 100 or 300 µL of CO (CO100 and CO300) and 100 or 300 µL of soybean oil (SO; SO100 and SO300). CO led to anxious behavior, increase in body weight gain, and adiposity. In the hypothalamus, CO and SO increase cytokines expression and pJNK, pNFKB, and TLR4 levels. Nevertheless, the adipose tissue presented increases macrophage infiltration, TNF-α and IL-6 after CO and SO consumption. IL-1B and CCL2 expression, pJNK and pNFKB levels increase only in CO300. In the hepatic tissue, CO increases TNF-α and chemokines expression. Neuronal cell line (mHypoA-2/29) exposed to serum from CO and SO mice shows increased NFKB migration to the nucleus, TNF-α, and NFKBia expression, but are prevented by inhibitor of TLR4 (TAK-242).

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that a low-dose CO changes the behavioral pattern, induces inflammatory pathway activation, TLR4 expression in healthy mice, and stimulates the pro-inflammatory response through a TLR4-mediated mechanism.