Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases

Effects of adding rumen-protected palm oil in diet on milk fatty acid profile and lipid health indices in Kivircik ewes

This study aimed to determine the effect of the addition of rumen-protected palm oil making up 3% of the ration on lipid health indices and milk fatty acid composition of Kivircik ewes'. Kivircik ewes at two years of age, the same parity, lactation stage, and the same bodyweight (52.57 ± 5.80 kg) were chosen for this purpose. Two groups were formed, in which the control group was fed a basal diet without feed supplementation, whereas the treatment group received rumen-protected palm oil which corresponded to 3% of the ration. In order to protect palm oil, it was coated with calcium salts. Treatment increased the palmitic acid (C16:0) content of milk compared to the control group (P < 0.05) and tended to increase saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (P = 0.14). An increase in SFA and MUFA was attributed to an increase in palmitic acid and oleic acid (C18:1), respectively (P < 0.05). Results indicated that the omega-6/omega-3 ratio (n-6/n-3) ranged between 0.61 and 2.63. The inclusion of palm oil in the diet tended to increase desirable fatty acids (DFAs) regardless of the week of milk sampled (P = 0.42). Treatment did not improve the atherogenicity index (AI), thrombogenicity index (TI), health-promoting index (HPI), and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) ratio. Results showed that adding rumen-protected palm oil is a plausible method to meet the energy intake of ewes required during lactation without negatively affecting lipid health indices.

Can Glyphosate and Temperature Affect the Nutritional Lipid Quality in the Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis?

Mussels are an important source of the essential omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), which play a critical role in human health, preventing a variety of diseases. This study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the combined effect of glyphosate (Gly) and culturing temperature on the lipid content and fatty acid (FA) profile of the Mediterranean mussel M. galloprovincialis. In addition, a number of lipid nutritional quality indices (LNQIs) were applied as important tools to assess the nutritional value of food. Mussels were exposed for 4 days to two Gly concentrations (1 mg/L, 10 mg/L) and two temperatures (T°: 20-26 °C). Statistical analysis showed significant effects of T°C, Gly, and T°C × Gly interaction (p < 0.05) on the lipid and FA profiles of M. galloprovincialis. Mussels exposed to 10 mg/L Gly at 20 °C showed a decrease in eicosapentaenoic (EPA, from 14.6% to 12% of total FAs) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA, from 10% to 6.4% of total FAs), compared to the control mussels. Both stressors caused a considerable decrease in n-3 PUFAs, which resulted in a less favorable n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio. Overall, this study demonstrated a decline in the nutritive values of mussels, most prominently in groups exposed to 10 mg/L Gly at a temperature of 20 °C and in those exposed to a temperature of 26 °C. This was confirmed by such LNQIs as EPA + DHA, PUFA/Saturated FAs, atherogenic and thrombogenic indices (AI and TI), the health promoting index (HPI), and the unsaturation index (UI). Further investigations into chronic exposure to both stressors are desirable to predict the impacts on aquatic ecosystems and food quality.

The VegPlate for Sports: A Plant-Based Food Guide for Athletes

Background: Nutrition strategies improve physiological and biochemical adaptation to training, facilitate more intense workouts, promote faster recoveries after a workout in anticipation of the next, and help to prepare for a race and maintain the body’s hydration status. Although vegetarianism (i.e., lacto-ovo and veganism) has become increasingly popular in recent years, the number of vegetarian athletes is not known, and no specific recommendations have been made for vegetarian dietary planning in sports. Well-planned diets are mandatory to obtain the best performance, and the available literature reports that those excluding all types of flesh foods (meat, poultry, game, and seafood) neither find advantages nor suffer from disadvantages, compared to omnivorous diets, for strength, anaerobic, or aerobic exercise performance; additionally, some benefits can be derived for general health. Methods: We conceived the VegPlate for Sports, a vegetarian food guide (VFG) based on the already-validated VegPlate facilitating method, designed according to the Italian dietary reference intakes (DRIs). Results: The VegPlate for Sports is suitable for men and women who are active in sports and adhere to a vegetarian (i.e., lacto-ovo and vegan) diet, and provides weight-based, adequate dietary planning. Conclusions: The VegPlate for Sports represents a practical tool for nutrition professionals and gives the possibility to plan diets based on energy, carbohydrate (CHO), and protein (PRO) necessities, from 50 to 90 Kg body weight (BW).

Food, gut barrier dysfunction, and related diseases: A new target for future individualized disease prevention and management

Dysfunction of gut barrier is known as "leaky gut" or increased intestinal permeability. Numerous recent scientific evidences showed the association between gut dysfunction and multiple gastrointestinal tract (GI) and non-GI diseases. Research also demonstrated that food plays a crucial role to cause or remedy gut dysfunction related to diseases. We reviewed recent articles from electronic databases, mainly PubMed. The data were based on animal models, cell models, and human research in vivo and in vitro models. In this comprehensive review, our aim focused on the relationship between dietary factors, intestinal permeability dysfunction, and related diseases. This review synthesizes currently available literature and is discussed in three parts: (a) the mechanism of gut barrier and function, (b) food and dietary supplements that may promote gut health, and food or medication that may alter gut function, and (c) a table that organizes the synthesized information by general mechanisms for diseases related to leaky gut/intestinal permeability and associated dietary influences. With future research, dietary intervention could be a new target for individualized disease prevention and management.

Overview of diet and autoimmune demyelinating optic neuritis: a narrative review

This review summarizes the cellular and molecular underpinnings of autoimmune demyelinating optic neuritis (ADON), a common sequela of multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases. We further present nutritional interventions tested for people with multiple sclerosis focusing on strategies that have shown efficacy or associations with disease course and clinical outcomes. We then close by discuss the potential dietary guidance for preventing and/or ameliorating ADON.

A near complete genome assembly of chia assists in identification of key fatty acid desaturases in developing seeds

Chia is an annual crop whose seeds have the highest content of α-linolenic acid (ALA) of any plant known to date. We generated a high-quality assembly of the chia genome using circular consensus sequencing (CCS) of PacBio. The assembled six chromosomes are composed of 21 contigs and have a total length of 361.7 Mb. Genome annotation revealed a 53.5% repeat content and 35,850 protein-coding genes. Chia shared a common ancestor with Salvia splendens ~6.1 million years ago. Utilizing the reference genome and two transcriptome datasets, we identified candidate fatty acid desaturases responsible for ALA biosynthesis during chia seed development. Because the seed of S. splendens contains significantly lower proportion of ALA but similar total contents of unsaturated fatty acids, we suggest that strong expression of two ShFAD3 genes are critical for the high ALA content of chia seeds. This genome assembly will serve as a valuable resource for breeding, comparative genomics, and functional genomics studies of chia.

Evidence-base for the beneficial effect of nutraceuticals in canine dermatological immune-mediated inflammatory diseases - A literature review

BACKGROUND

Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) are associated with an abnormal immune response, resulting in a disturbed homeostasis and chronic inflammation. Most canine dermatological IMIDs (cDIMIDs), such as allergies, autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases, require long-term treatment with immunosuppressive drugs with potential adverse effects. In general, nutraceuticals are thought to be safe. As a result, there is a tendency for the more frequent use of nutraceuticals in veterinary medicine.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to present evidence-based proof for the use of various nutraceuticals in the treatment of cDIMIDs and, where possible, to provide conclusions to guide their use in veterinary dermatological practice.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search on common cDIMIDs and nutraceuticals was performed. Only peer-reviewed articles published in English and related to the study topic were included. A total of 64 eligible publications were classified in five categories based on study design and substantively assessed on additional criteria such as standardisation of diets and number of included animals. For final appraisal, classification of major, minor or no evidence was used whereby efficacy was based on clinical outcome measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

Minor evidence for the beneficial use of several nutraceuticals, including essential fatty acids, niacinamide and probiotics, was found for treatment of specific cDIMIDs. These nutraceuticals may improve clinical signs or reduce the required dose of concurrent medication (e.g. drug-sparing effect) in some dogs. Some nutraceuticals also may be used for long-term maintenance therapy. Despite some promising findings, major evidence for the use of nutraceuticals in cDIMIDs is lacking, warranting further research.

Protective effects of an electrophilic metabolite of docosahexaenoic acid on UVB-induced oxidative cell death, dermatitis, and carcinogenesis

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a representative omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids, undergoes metabolism to produce biologically active electrophilic species. 17-Oxo-DHA is one such reactive metabolite generated from DHA by cyclooxygenase-2 and dehydrogenase in activated macrophages. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of 17-oxo-DHA on ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and carcinogenesis in mouse skin. UVB-induced epidermal cell death was ameliorated by topically applied 17-oxo-DHA. Topical application of 17-oxo-DHA onto hairless mouse skin inhibited UVB-induced phosphorylation of the proinflammatory transcription factor, STAT3 on tyrosine 705 (Tyr705). The 17-oxo-DHA treatment also reduced the levels of oxidative stress markers, 4-hydroxynonenal-modified protein, malondialdehyde, and 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine. The protective effects of 17-oxo-DHA against oxidative damage in UVB-irradiated mouse skin were associated with activation of Nrf2. 17-Oxo-DHA enhanced the engulfment of apoptotic JB6 cells by macrophages, which was related to the increased expression of the scavenger receptor CD36. The 17-oxo-DHA-mediated potentiation of efferocytic activity of macrophages was attenuated by the pharmacologic inhibition or knockout of Nrf2. The pretreatment with 17-oxo-DHA reduced the UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis and tumor angiogenesis. It was also confirmed that 17-oxo-DHA treatment significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of the Tyr705 residue of STAT3 and decreased the expression of its target proteins in cutaneous papilloma. In conclusion, 17-oxo-DHA protects against UVB-induced oxidative cell death, dermatitis, and carcinogenesis. These effects were associated with inhibition of STAT3-mediated proinflammatory signaling and also activation of Nrf2 with subsequent upregulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory gene expression.

Distinct effects of α-linolenic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on the expression of genes related to cholesterol metabolism and the response to infection in THP-1 monocytes and immune cells of obese humans

BACKGROUND

Monocytes play a large role in chronic inflammatory conditions such as obesity, atherosclerosis and infection. Marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) beneficially alter immune function and attenuate chronic inflammation in part by modifying gene expression. Comparisons with plant-derived omega-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA) on immune cell gene expression and function are limited.

METHODS

Transcriptome analysis was performed on THP-1 human monocytes treated with ALA, DHA or vehicle for 48 hr using fold change analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), variable importance analysis (VIP), and ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). Candidate genes were validated by qPCR. Functional assays evaluated the transcriptomic predictions. Expression of candidate transcripts identified in THP-1 cells were examined in PBMC from clinical trial (OXBIO; NCT03583281) participants consuming ALA- or DHA-rich oil supplements.

FINDINGS

ALA and DHA-treated monocytes presented distinct transcriptomic profiles as per VIP and PLS-DA. Both fatty acids were predicted to reduce cellular cholesterol content, while ALA would uniquely increase response to infection and chemotactic signals. Functional assays revealed ALA and DHA decreased cholesterol content. DHA significantly decreased the response to infection and chemotaxis, but ALA had no effect. Candidate transcripts responded similarly in PBMC from n-3 PUFA supplemented women with obesity.

CONCLUSION

ALA and DHA differentially alter the transcription profiles and functions associated with the response to infection, chemotaxis, and cholesterol metabolism in mononuclear immune cells. Thus, they may uniquely affect related disease processes contributing to obesity, atherosclerosis, and the response to infection.

Stereocontrolled total synthesis of Resolvin D4 and 17(R)-Resolvin D4

The total synthesis of Resolvin D4 and its 17(R)-hydroxy-epimer is reported. These lipid-based natural products are biosynthesized from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6) during the body's rapid cellular and chemical response to injurious stimuli and are part of a large class of bioactive molecules that resolve inflammation. Our convergent synthesis employed a chiral pool strategy starting from glycidol derivatives and D-erythrose to introduce stereogenic centers. A copper(I)-mediated cross coupling between propargyl bromide and terminal acetylenic precursors yielded core structures of late-stage key intermediates. A simultaneous Lindlar reduction of the skipped diynyl moiety followed by silyl group cleavage securely completed the synthesis. The synthetic availability of these molecules helped further elucidate their stereoselective biofunctions.

Frontiers and hotspots evolution in anti-inflammatory studies for coronary heart disease: A bibliometric analysis of 1990-2022

BACKGROUND

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is characterized by forming of arterial plaques composed mainly of lipids, calcium, and inflammatory cells. These plaques narrow the lumen of the coronary artery, leading to episodic or persistent angina. Atherosclerosis is not just a lipid deposition disease but an inflammatory process with a high-specificity cellular and molecular response. Anti-inflammatory treatment for CHD is a promising therapy; several recent clinical studies (CANTOS, COCOLT, and LoDoCo2) provide therapeutic directions. However, bibliometric analysis data on anti-inflammatory conditions in CHD are lacking. This study aims to provide a comprehensive visual perspective on the anti-inflammatory research in CHD and will contribute to further research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All the data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. We used the Web of Science's systematic tool to analyze the year of countries/regions, organizations, publications, authors, and citations. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to construct visual bibliometric networks to reveal the current status and emerging hotspot trends for anti-inflammatory intervention in CHD.

RESULTS

5,818 papers published from 1990 to 2022 were included. The number of publications has been on the rise since 2003. Libby Peter is the most prolific author in the field. "Circulation" was ranked first in the number of journals. The United States has contributed the most to the number of publications. The Harvard University System is the most published organization. The top 5 clusters of keywords co-occurrence are inflammation, C-reactive protein, coronary heart disease, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, and myocardial infarction. The top 5 literature citation topics are chronic inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular risk; systematic review, statin therapy; high-density lipoprotein. In the past 2 years, the strongest keyword reference burst is "Nlrp3 inflammasome," and the strongest citation burst is "Ridker PM, 2017 (95.12)."

CONCLUSION

This study analyzes the research hotspots, frontiers, and development trends of anti-inflammatory applications in CHD, which is of great significance for future studies.

Beyond allergic progression: From molecules to microbes as barrier modulators in the gut-lung axis functionality

The "epithelial barrier hypothesis" states that a barrier dysfunction can result in allergy development due to tolerance breakdown. This barrier alteration may come from the direct contact of epithelial and immune cells with the allergens, and indirectly, through deleterious effects caused by environmental changes triggered by industrialization, pollution, and changes in the lifestyle. Apart from their protective role, epithelial cells can respond to external factors secreting IL-25 IL-33, and TSLP, provoking the activation of ILC2 cells and a Th2-biased response. Several environmental agents that influence epithelial barrier function, such as allergenic proteases, food additives or certain xenobiotics are reviewed in this paper. In addition, dietary factors that influence the allergenic response in a positive or negative way will be also described here. Finally, we discuss how the gut microbiota, its composition, and microbe-derived metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, alter not only the gut but also the integrity of distant epithelial barriers, focusing this review on the gut-lung axis.

Impact of the TRPV2 Inhibitor on Advanced Heart Failure in Patients with Muscular Dystrophy: Exploratory Study of Biomarkers Related to the Efficacy of Tranilast

Cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of death in patients with muscular dystrophy (MD). Tranilast, a widely used anti-allergic drug, has displayed inhibitory activity against the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 2 and improved cardiac function in MD patients. To identify urinary biomarkers that assess improved cardiac function after tranilast administration, we performed a urinary metabolomic study focused on oxidative fatty acids. Accompanying the clinical trial of tranilast, urine specimens were collected over 24 weeks from MD patients with advanced heart failure. Urinary levels of tetranor-PGDM (tetranor-prostaglandin D metabolite), a metabolite of prostaglandin D₂, significantly decreased 12 weeks after tranilast administration and were correlated with BNP. These results suggest that prostaglandin-mediated inflammation, which increases with the pathological progression of heart failure in MD patients, was attenuated. Urinary prostaglandin E₃ (PGE₃) levels significantly increased 4 weeks after tranilast administration. There were positive correlations between the urinary levels of PGE₃ and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, an oxidative stress marker. High PGE₃ levels may have a protective effect against cardiomyopathy in MD patients with high oxidative stress. Although further validation studies are necessary, urinary tetranor-PGDM and PGE₃ levels may help the current understanding of the extent of advanced heart failure in patients with MD after tranilast administration.

DHA Induces Cell Death through the Production of ROS and the Upregulation of CHOP in Fibroblast-like Synovial Cells from Human Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease marked by a massive proliferation of synovial cells in the joints. In this study, we investigated the pro-apoptotic effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in human fibroblast-like synovial cells from RA patients (RA-FLS). An in vitro study using MH7A cells showed that DHA treatment induced caspase-8-dependent apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner and reduced the TNF-α-mediated induction of MMP-9 and IL-1β. DHA also induced the phosphorylation of eIF2α, the expression of the ER stress markers ATF4 and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and death receptor 5 (DR5). The knockdown of CHOP or DR5 increased cell viability and reduced apoptosis in DHA-treated cells. Furthermore, the knockdown of CHOP reduced DHA-mediated DR5 expression, while the overexpression of CHOP increased DR5 expression. We also found that DHA treatment induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and pretreatment with the anti-oxidant Tiron effectively abrogated not only the expression of CHOP and DR5, but also DHA-induced apoptosis. Under this condition, cell viability was increased, while PARP-1 cleavage and caspase-8 activation were reduced. All the findings were reproduced in human primary synovial cells obtained from RA patients. These results suggest that the DHA-mediated induction of ROS and CHOP induced apoptosis through the upregulation of DR5 in RA-FLSs, and that CHOP could be used as a therapy for RA.

Role of omega-3 endocannabinoids in the modulation of T-cell activity in a multiple sclerosis experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model

Epidemiological studies show that omega-3 fatty acid consumption is associated with improved conditions in neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the mechanism of this association is not well understood. Emerging evidence suggests that parent molecules such as docosahexaenoic acid are converted into downstream metabolites that are capable of directly modulating immune responses. In vitro, we found that docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide (DHEA), another dietary component and its epoxide metabolite, reduced the polarization of naïve T-cells toward proinflammatory Th1 and Th17 phenotypes. Furthermore, we identified that DHEA and related endocannabinoids are changing during the disease progression in mice undergoing relapse-remitting experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (RR-EAE). In addition, daily administration of DHEA to mice delayed the onset of disease, the rate of relapse, and the severity of clinical scores at relapse in RR-EAE, an animal model of MS. Collectively, these data indicate that DHEA and their downstream metabolites reduce the disease severity in the RR-EAE model of MS and can be potential dietary adjuvants to existing MS therapeutics.

Evaluation of antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of GC/MS characterized methanol leaf extract of Terminalia superba (Combretaceae, Engl. & Diels)

Background

Terminalia superba is a well-known medicinal plant used in folk medicine for the management of various diseases and swelling. Validation of its efficacy in standardized scientific models is lacking. This gap needs to be filled as a way of enhancing modern drug discovery. The aim is to evaluate the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of T. superba in known and established models. Also, to establish and possibly correlate the established activity with the phytochemicals identified using GC/MS and qualitative methods.

Results

The result showed a dose-dependent percentage inhibition of DPPH, HO•, and Fe3+ reducing activity. The antibacterial activity showed dose-dependent significant (p < 0.05) inhibition against all the organisms used. The anti-inflammatory activity of METS was confirmed in the carrageenan model with significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of paw volume when compared to control while significantly decreasing (p < 0.05) weight of xylene-induced ear. For instance, after 6 h, there was  a reduction of 42%, 33%, and 22% for diclofenac, 200 mg, and 100 mg, respectively, as against 4% in control. The significant (p < 0.05) increase in MDA was attenuated by the treatment with METS dose dependently. Phytochemical assay and GC/MS characterization showed that alkaloids, saponins, phenols, quinone, tannins, coumarins, proteins, flavonoids, and amino acids were dominant with fatty acids accounting for 53%. Others are esters (23%), organic compounds (12%), alkanes (9%), and carboxylic acids (3%).

Conclusions

T. superba possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties which are believed to arise from the secondary metabolites observed in the GC–MS characterization.

Graphical Abstract

Serum and diet long-chain omega-3 fatty acid nutritional status in Chinese elite athletes

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) are essential for improving the health and performance of athletes. The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status of omega-3 PUFAs in Chinese elite athletes by both dietary intake analysis and serum biomarker detection. A cross-sectional analysis of data from 54 elite athletes (24 men and 30 women) from Shanghai professional sports teams was conducted. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was employed to analyze dietary intake, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) was conducted to measure serum biomarkers of PUFAs. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationships of PUFA biomarkers with diet, inflammation and oxidative stress. The results showed that the median intake of EPA + DHA among athletes was 132 mg/d, which is lower than the minimum value recommended by dietary guidelines (250 mg/d). The average serum EPA + DHA was 4.0 ± 1.1%, and the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 was 7.7 ± 1.7. Most (96.3%) of the athletes were below the targeted value of serum EPA + DHA, which is associated with a reduction in cardiovascular risk. Correlation analysis showed that the serum EPA + DHA was positively correlated with the long-term dietary intake of EPA + DHA and negatively correlated with inflammatory markers. In conclusion, the serum circulating EPA + DHA and omega-6/omega-3 ratio are effective biomarkers reflecting the nutritional status of PUFAs in athletes. Omega-3 PUFAs have a potential effect on inhibiting inflammatory markers. Hence, it is necessary for Chinese athletes to improve their suboptimal nutritional status of PUFAs through dietary intervention.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Current insights into mechanisms of action in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the autoimmune diseases characterized by the lack of self-tolerance and the formation of immune complexes and nuclear autoantigens resulting in inflammation in multiple organs. Nowadays, the major aim of SLE therapy is the control of disease activity. However, the biological heterogeneity between patients and the absence of safe and specific targeted treatments complicate the lupus management. Therefore, the potential prophylactic effects of natural therapy considering the potential side effects of classical pharmacology, also the role of diet therapy in decreasing co-morbidities and improving quality of life in SLE patients could be a promising approach to SLE disease. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) are one of the agents that are considered for their preventive and therapeutic properties in disease activity of SLE and the related complications. The intake of omega-3 PUFAs likely has a direct relationship with improvements in inflammatory, cardiovascular, depressive, and neuromotor symptoms of the patients. The current review summarizes clinical and preclinical studies with comprehensive insights into the mechanisms of action of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3 FAs) in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus to provide an update on the negative and positive aspects of the intake of omega-3 FAs in SLE patients.

The bidirectional relationship between endometriosis and microbiome

Endometriosis has been described by many different theories of pathogenesis over the years. It is now also appreciated to be a state of chronic inflammation, and the role of immune dysfunction in its development has been proven. There is increasing evidence to support the role of the microbiome in the formation and progression of endometriosis via inflammatory pathways. The dysbiosis seen in endometriosis is thought to be both causative and a consequence of the pathogenesis. Gut, peritoneal fluid and female reproductive tract microbiota has been studied to understand if there are any microbiome signatures specific to endometriosis. New research on how to manipulate the microbiome for better detection and treatment of endometriosis is emerging.

Macroalgae Specialized Metabolites: Evidence for Their Anti-Inflammatory Health Benefits

Inflammation is an organism's response to chemical or physical injury. It is split into acute and chronic inflammation and is the last, most significant cause of death worldwide. Nowadays, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the greatest threat to human health is chronic disease. Worldwide, three out of five people die from chronic inflammatory diseases such as stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, heart disorders, and cancer. Nowadays, anti-inflammatory drugs (steroidal and non-steroidal, enzyme inhibitors that are essential in the inflammatory process, and receptor antagonists, among others) have been considered as promising treatments to be explored. However, there remains a significant proportion of patients who show poor or incomplete responses to these treatments or experience associated severe side effects. Seaweeds represent a valuable resource of bioactive compounds associated with anti-inflammatory effects and offer great potential for the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs. This review presents an overview of specialized metabolites isolated from seaweeds with in situ and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties. Phlorotannins, carotenoids, sterols, alkaloids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids present significant anti-inflammatory effects given that some of them are involved directly or indirectly in several inflammatory pathways. The majority of the isolated compounds inhibit the pro-inflammatory mediators/cytokines. Studies have suggested an excellent selectivity of chromene nucleus towards inducible pro-inflammatory COX-2 than its constitutive isoform COX-1. Additional research is needed to understand the mechanisms of action of seaweed's compounds in inflammation, given the production of sustainable and healthier anti-inflammatory agents.

Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on oxidative stress parameters and sex hormone levels of modern genotype sows

BACKGROUND

Sows are exposed to severe stress and hormonal challenges during their whole productive life. As polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role in immune and reproductive functions, with a better understanding of their role in breeding sows' nutrition, improved performance and more sustainable pig production can be achieved.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we investigated the effects of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the antioxidant status and hormone levels of sows.

METHODS

A total of 48 Danish Large white × Danish Landrace sows were supplemented either with sunflower oil (SO) as a control group or with fish oil (FO) as experimental group at the same dose of 10 g/kg feed. Blood samples were collected on day 14 of lactation, 5 days after weaning (insemination), and 30 days after insemination. To estimate antioxidant and reproductive effects, the amounts of reduced glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), serum 17β oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (6-keto PGF1α) levels were investigated.

RESULTS

FO-based supplementation increased GPx activity on day 14 of lactation. Five days after weaning, the concentration of GSH in FO-fed sows was significantly higher than that in SO-fed sows. The E2 content of blood was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group for two of the three examined periods (day 14 of lactation and 30 days after insemination), whereas P4 levels were significantly higher in the experimental group 5 days after weaning. We found that 6-keto PGF1α levels were systematically lower in the experimental group throughout the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence of the major impact of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids on the tested hormone levels, which serve as precursors for the production of E2 and P4 but have an opposite effect on PGF2α production.

Is the vesicular nucleotide transporter a molecular target of eicosapentaenoic acid?

Vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT), an active transporter for nucleotides in secretory vesicles, is responsible for the vesicular storage of ATP and plays an essential role in purinergic chemical transmission. Inhibition of VNUT decreases the concentration of ATP in the luminal space of secretory vesicles, followed by decreased vesicular ATP release, resulting in the blockade of purinergic chemical transmission. Very recently, Miyaji and colleagues reported that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a potent VNUT inhibitor and effective in treating neuropathic and inflammatory pain and insulin resistance through inhibition of vesicular storage and release of ATP. However, our validation study indicated that, in bovine adrenal chromaffin granule membrane vesicles, EPA inhibited the formation of an electrochemical gradient of protons across the membrane with the concentration of 50% inhibition (IC50) being 1.0 μM without affecting concanamycin B-sensitive ATPase activity. Essentially, similar results were obtained with proteoliposomes containing purified vacuolar H⁺-ATPase. Consistent with these observations, EPA inhibited the ATP-dependent uptakes of ATP and dopamine by chromaffin granule membrane vesicles, with ID50 being 1.2 and 1.0 μM, respectively. Furthermore, EPA inhibited ATP-dependent uptake of L-glutamate by mouse brain synaptic vesicles with ID50 being 0.35 μM. These results indicate that EPA at sub-μM acts as a proton conductor and increases proton permeability across the membrane, regardless of the presence or absence of VNUT, thereby inhibiting non-specifically the vesicular storage of neurotransmitters. Thus, EPA may affect a broader range of chemical transmission than proposed.

Causal effects of fatty acids on depression: Mendelian randomization study

Objectives

Fatty acids (FA) are widely believed to play a role in the pathophysiology of depression. However, the causal relationships between FA and depression remain elusive and warrant further research. We aimed to investigate the potential causal relationship between FA [saturated fatty acids (SFA), mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)] and the risk of depression using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

We conducted a two-sample MR analysis using large-scale European-based genome-wide association studies (GWASs) summary data related to depression (n = 500,199 individuals) and FA [saturated fatty acids (SFA), mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)] levels. MR analysis was performed using the Wald ratio and inverse variance-weighted (IVW) methods, and sensitivity analysis was conducted by the simple mode, weighted mode, weighted median method, and MR-Egger method.

Results

We found the causal effects for the levels of oleic acid (OA; OR = 1.07, p = 5.72 × 10^-4), adrenic acid (OR = 0.74, p = 1.01 × 10^-3), α-linolenic acid (ALA; OR = 2.52, p = 1.01 × 10^-3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; OR = 0.84, p = 3.11 × 10^-3) on depression risk, after Bonferroni correction. The sensitivity analyses indicated similar trends. No causal effect between the levels of SFA and depression risk was observed.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that adrenic acid and EPA are protective against the risk of depression, while OA and ALA are potential risk factors for depression. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanisms that mediate the association between these FAs and depression risk should be investigated in further experiments.

Research progress on Walnut oil: Bioactive compounds, health benefits, extraction methods, and medicinal uses

Walnut oil is extracted from walnut kernels (Juglans regia Linne) or iron walnut kernels (Juhlans sigillata Dode). The percentage of oil in walnuts is 52%-70%. The main constituents in oil are fatty acids, phenols, sterols, squalene, melatonin, vitamins, and minerals. Many extraction methods such as supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, maceration, modified "bligh and dyer extraction," aqueous enzymatic extraction, ultrasonic extraction, soxhlet extraction, and cold-press extraction methods are reported in the literature. Walnut oil showed anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic activities. The reported data in the literature suggest that walnut oil has many health benefits. This review summarizes the extraction methods, bioactive constituents, health benefits, and pharmacological actions of walnut oil. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Walnut oil is a natural vegetable oil of significant importance due to their nutritional, and intelligence-boosting benefits. Several factors, including the processing parameters and the phytochemical profile, affect walnut oil products' flavor and color. In addition, storage environment of walnut oil can also affect walnut oil quality. Apart from the predominant ingredient fatty acids, the chemical composition of walnut oil comprises phenols, sterols, squalene, melatonin, vitamins, and minerals. These bioactive compounds are of potential value owing to their health-promoting benefits, including antioxidant, antitumor, and cholesterol-lowering effects. Many chemical constituents were isolated from walnut oil; however, all the compounds are not explored for their possible medicinal value. Thus, clinical studies, exploration of the therapeutic potential and the molecular mechanisms of all the compounds, and development of convenient dosage forms either for therapeutic or functional food purposes are warranted.

Randomized Controlled Trial of Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acid Supplementation to Reduce Inflammatory Markers in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This double-blind, randomized controlled trial, tested fatty acid (FA) supplementation in children (ages 2- < 6 years) recently diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Participants received daily oral FA supplement containing omega-3 and omega-6 FA, or a placebo for 90 days based on participant weight. Erythrocyte FAs and the cytokines, IL-1β, IL-2, IFNγ, were measured in plasma obtained from serial blood collections. Treatment increased omega-3 and omega-6 FA levels (1.40 mol% for EPA and 1.62 mol% for DHA) and reduced IL-2 levels compared to placebo (- 0.17 pg/mL, 95% CI - 0.31, - 0.02, d = - 0.62). Omega 3-6 treatment was tolerable and adherence was greater than 70%. Future research will assess the effects of Omega 3-6 treatment on ASD symptoms. Registered on 06/08/2018 with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03550209.

Habitual fish oil supplementation and incident chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Data from a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Fish oil is one of the most popular supplements in the UK and other developed countries. However, the relationship between fish oil use and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively examine the association of habitual fish oil supplementation with incident COPD risk and to evaluate potential effect modification by genetic predisposition.

METHODS

This study included 484,414 participants (mean and standard deviation [SD] age: 56.5 [8.1] years) from the UK Biobank who completed a touchscreen questionnaire on habitual fish oil supplement use between 2006 and 2010 and were followed up through 2018. Cox regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) with adjustment for sociodemographic and lifestyle behaviours, health conditions, and other potential confounding factors. A weighted genetic risk score (GRS) for COPD was derived from 112 validated single nucleotide polymorphisms.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 9.0 years, 8860 incident COPD events were recorded. A total of 31.4% (152,230) of the study participants reported habitual fish oil supplementation at baseline. Habitual fish oil supplementation was significantly associated with a lower risk of incident COPD (adjusted HR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.84-0.93). The association with COPD did not differ by GRS strata (P for interaction = 0.880). The results from subgroup and sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of our findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that habitual fish oil supplementation is associated with a lower risk of incident COPD, irrespective of genetic predisposition.

Phase III, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Neuroaspis plp10 as an adjuvant treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis: the MINERAL Study

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of Neuroaspis plp10 nutritional supplement when added to interferon (IFN)-β treatment in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Design

A 30-month phase III multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Randomisation stratified by centre using a computer-generated procedure with Neuroaspis plp10 versus placebo in 1:1 ratio. The first 6 months were used as both the pre-entry and normalisation period.

Setting

3 teaching hospitals in Greece and 1 Neurology Institute in Cyprus.

Participants

61 patients with RRMS on IFN-β were randomly assigned to receive Neuroaspis plp10 (n=32) or placebo (n=29), 20 mL, orally, once daily, for 30 months.

Intervention

Neuroaspis plp10, a cocktail mixture, containing specific PUFA (12 150 mg) and γ-tocopherol (760 mg) versus virgin olive oil (placebo).

Main outcome measure

The primary end point was the annual relapse rate (ARR) whereas the secondary ones were the rate of sustained progression of disability, as measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the brain T2 and gadolinium-enhancing lesions, at 2 years.

Results

For the intention-to-treat analyses Neuroaspis plp10 significantly reduced the ARR by 80%, (RRR, 0.20; 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.45; p=0.0001) and the risk of sustained progression of disability by 73% (HR, 0.27; 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.83; p=0.022) versus placebo, at 2 years. The number of T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions and the number of new/enlarged T2-hyperintense lesions were significantly reduced (p=0.01 and p<0.0001, respectively). Both T1-enhancing and new/enlarging T2-hyperintense lesions were significantly reduced (p=0.05 and p<0.0001, respectively). No significant adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Neuroaspis plp10 added to IFN-β was significantly more effective than IFN-β alone in patients with RRMS.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN06166891.

Micro-Encapsulated Microalgae Oil Supplementation Has No Systematic Effect on the Odor of Vanilla Shake-Test of an Electronic Nose

In this study, we aimed to carry out the efficient fortification of vanilla milkshakes with micro-encapsulated microalgae oil (brand: S17-P100) without distorting the product’s odor. A 10-step oil-enrichment protocol was developed using an inclusion rate of 0.2 to 2 w/w%. Fatty acid (FA) profile analysis was performed using methyl esters with the GC-MS technique, and the recovery of docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 n3, DHA) was robust (r = 0.97, p < 0.001). The enrichment process increased the DHA level to 412 mg/100 g. Based on this finding, a flash-GC-based electronic nose (e-nose) was used to describe the product’s odor. Applying principal component (PC) analysis to the acquired sensor data revealed that for the first four PCs, only PC3 (6.5%) showed a difference between the control and the supplemented products. However, no systematic pattern of odor profiles corresponding to the percentages of supplementation was observed within the PC planes. Similarly, when discriminant factor analysis (DFA) was applied, though a classification of the control and supplemented products, we obtained a validation score of 98%, and the classification pattern of the odor profiles did not follow a systematic format. Again, when a more targeted approach such as the partial least square regression (PLSR) was used on the most dominant sensors, a weak relationship (R2 = 0.50) was observed, indicating that there was no linear combination of the qualitative sensors’ signals that could accurately describe the supplemented concentration variation. It can therefore be inferred that no detectable off-odor was present as a side effect of the increase in the oil concentration. Some volatile compounds of importance in regard to the odor, such as ethylacetate, ethyl-isobutarate, pentanal and pentyl butanoate, were found in the supplemented product. Although the presence of yeasts and molds was excluded from the product, ethanol was detected in all samples, but with an intensity that was insufficient to cause an off-odor.

Nutritional Profiling of Wild (Pangasius pangasius) and Farmed (Pangasius hypophthalmus) Pangasius Catfish with Implications to Human Health

This study analyzed and compared the nutritional profiles of wild (Pangasius pangasius) and farmed (Pangasius hypophthalmus) pangasius catfish collected from the various sources of river and culture ponds in Bangladesh. The results indicated that the wild pangasius catfish had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of moisture, fat and ash content, compared to the farmed one. However, the farmed pangasius had significantly higher level of protein and carbohydrate, compared to wild pangasius. The total EAA ratio was found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in wild pangasius (1.51 ± 0.01 g/100 g), compared to farmed pangasius (1.55 ± 0.01 g/100 g), which exceeded the FAO/WHO minimum standard of 40% for both species. In regard to fatty acid contents, wild pangasius was found to be rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with a mean value of 4.89% and 2.72%, respectively, while the values in the farmed pangasius were 1.07% and 0 (not detected), respectively. A higher ω-3/ω-6 ratio was found in wild pangasius 14.26%, in comparison with farmed pangasius (0.14%). Overall, the results indicated that pangasius catfish either farmed or wild are suitable for human consumption wherein wild pangasius has superior amino acid and fatty acid quality, compared to the pangasius reared in captivity.

The Effects of Almond Consumption on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Conflicting findings have been reported regarding the effects of almond consumption on inflammatory markers. This study aimed to summarize the current literature to determine whether almonds can affect inflammatory markers. A systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science up to March 2021. Randomized clinical trials that compared almond with no almond consumption were included. The outcomes of interest were changes in circulating C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, TNF-α, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) concentrations. The random-effects model was used to find the mean differences. In total, 18 trials with 847 participants were eligible for the current analysis. Participants' ages ranged from 26.3 to 69.6 y. Combining 16 studies, almond consumption significantly reduced serum concentrations of CRP [weighted mean difference (WMD): -0.25 mg/L; 95% CI: -0.43, -0.06 mg/L; I2 = 0.0%; P-heterogeneity = 0.633]. However, the beneficial effect of almond intake only occurred at doses <60 g/d. Pooling 11 effect sizes, almond interventions significantly decreased circulating IL-6 concentrations (WMD: -0.11 pg/mL; 95% CI: -0.21, -0.01 pg/mL; I2 = 19.9%; P-heterogeneity = 0.254). In subgroup analyses, effects on CRP and IL-6 were nonsignificant in unhealthy participants or those with obesity. In addition, almond consumption had no significant effect on TNF-α (WMD: -0.05 pg/mL; 95% CI: -0.11, 0.01 pg/mL; I2 = 0.0%; P-heterogeneity = 0.893; n = 6), ICAM-1 (WMD: 6.39 ng/mL; 95% CI: -9.44, 22.22 ng/mL; I2 = 66.6%; P-heterogeneity = 0.006; n = 7), or VCAM-1 (WMD: -8.31 ng/mL; 95% CI: -35.32, 18.71 ng/mL; I2 = 58.8%; P-heterogeneity = 0.033; n = 6). In conclusion, almond consumption beneficially affects CRP and IL-6 concentrations in adults. However, it has no beneficial effect on TNF-α, ICAM-1, or VCAM-1. More trials are needed to determine the effects of almonds on inflammation.

Selenium-Enriched Cardamine violifolia Increases Selenium and Decreases Cholesterol Concentrations in Liver and Pectoral Muscle of Broilers

BACKGROUND

Supernutrition of selenium (Se) in an effort to produce Se-enriched meat may inadvertently cause lipid accumulation. Se-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SeCv) contains >80% of Se in organic forms.

OBJECTIVES

This study was to determine whether feeding chickens a high dose of SeCv could produce Se-biofortified muscle without altering their lipid metabolism.

METHODS

Day-old male broilers were allocated to 4 groups (6 cages/group and 6 chicks/cage) and were fed either a corn-soy base diet (BD, 0.13-0.15 mg Se/kg), the BD plus 0.5 mg Se/kg as sodium selenite (SeNa) or as SeCv, or the BD plus a low-Se Cardamine violifolia (Cv, 0.20-0.21mg Se/kg). At week 6, concentrations of Se and lipid and expression of selenoprotein and lipid metabolism-related genes were determined in the pectoral muscle and liver.

RESULTS

The 4 diets showed no effects on growth performance of broilers. Compared with the other 3 diets, SeCv elevated (P < 0.05) Se concentrations in the pectoral muscle and liver by 14.4-127% and decreased (P < 0.05) total cholesterol concentrations by 12.5-46.7% and/or triglyceride concentrations by 28.8-31.1% in the pectoral muscle and/or liver, respectively. Meanwhile, SeCv enhanced (P < 0.05) muscular α-linolenic acid (80.0%) and hepatic arachidonic acid (58.3%) concentrations compared with SeNa and BD, respectively. SeCv downregulated (P < 0.05) the cholesterol and triglyceride synthesis-related proteins (sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 2 and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 2) and upregulated (P < 0.05) hydrolysis and β-oxidation of fatty acid-related proteins (lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid binding protein 1, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A), as well as selenoprotein P1 and thioredoxin reductase activity in the pectoral muscle and/or liver compared with SeNa.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with SeNa, SeCv effectively raised Se and reduced lipids in the liver and muscle of broilers. The effect was mediated through the regulation of the cholesterol and triglyceride biosynthesis and utilization-related genes.

Mediterranean-Like Dietary Pattern Associations With Gut Microbiome Composition and Subclinical Gastrointestinal Inflammation

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Case-control studies have shown that patients with Crohn's disease (CD) have a microbial composition different from healthy individuals. Although the causes of CD are unknown, epidemiologic studies suggest that diet is an important contributor to CD risk, potentially via modulation of bacterial composition and gut inflammation. We hypothesized that long-term dietary clusters (DCs) are associated with gut microbiome compositions and gut inflammation. Our objectives were to identify dietary patterns and assess whether they are associated with alterations in specific gut microbial compositions and subclinical levels of gut inflammation in a cohort of healthy first-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with CD.

METHODS

As part of the Genetic, Environmental, Microbial (GEM) Project, we recruited a cohort of 2289 healthy FDRs of patients with CD. Individuals provided stool samples and answered a validated food frequency questionnaire reflecting their habitual diet during the year before sample collection. Unsupervised analysis identified 3 dietary and 3 microbial composition clusters.

RESULTS

DC3, resembling the Mediterranean diet, was strongly associated with a defined microbial composition, with an increased abundance of fiber-degrading bacteria, such as Ruminococcus, as well as taxa such as Faecalibacterium. The DC3 diet was also significantly associated with lower levels of subclinical gut inflammation, defined by fecal calprotectin, compared with other dietary patterns. No significant associations were found between individual food items and fecal calprotectin, suggesting that long-term dietary patterns rather than individual food items contribute to subclinical gut inflammation. Additionally, mediation analysis demonstrated that DC3 had a direct effect on subclinical inflammation that was partially mediated by the microbiota.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these results indicated that Mediterranean-like dietary patterns are associated with microbiome and lower intestinal inflammation. This study will help guide future dietary strategies that affect microbial composition and host gut inflammation to prevent diseases.

Effect of Omega-3 on HLA-DR Expression by Conjunctival Cells and Tear Cytokine Concentrations in the Dry Eye Assessment and Management Study

OBJECTIVES

To determine effect of omega-3 supplementation on conjunctival cell HLA-DR expression and tear concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17A, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α in dry eye disease patients in the Dry Eye Assessment and Management study.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to receive a daily dose of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (ω3) or refined olive oil (placebo) for 12 months. At baseline, 6 and 12 months, HLA-DR expression in conjunctival total, epithelial, and white blood cells and cytokine concentration in tears were determined. Differences in change from baseline between treatment groups were assessed using generalized estimating equations (HLA-DR) or Wilcoxon rank-sum test (cytokines).

RESULTS

No differences were observed in HLA-DR expression in total, epithelial, or white blood cells between ω3 and placebo groups at 6 months (n=435) or 12 months (n=436). The median concentration percent change differed between ω3 and placebo groups at 6 months for IL-6 (-36.6 vs. 24.5%, P =0.02, n=75) and for IL-8 (3.7% vs. 72.6%, P =0.02, n=68); at 12 months, they did not differ ( P ≥0.18). No other differences between the treatment groups were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

ω3 supplementation did not consistently affect ocular inflammatory status as measured by the frequency of HLA-DR expressing conjunctival cells or tear cytokines.

Short-Term Fish Oil Supplementation during Adolescence Supports Sex-Specific Impact on Adulthood Visuospatial Memory and Cognitive Flexibility

Numerous studies have supported benefits of omega-3 supplementation using Menhaden fish oil (FO) to promote brain maturation and plasticity during critical developmental periods. The goal of this study was to determine sex-specific immediate and delayed impact of adolescent omega-3 supplementation on visuospatial memory and cognitive flexibility. Sixty-four Wistar rats (n = 32 males and females) received daily FO or soybean oil (CSO) supplementation via oral gavage (0.3 mL/100 g body weight) from postnatal day 28–47. The Barnes Maze Test (BMT) was used to measure visuospatial memory and reversal learning trials (RL) determined cognitive flexibility. Juveniles underwent testing immediately after the gavage period, while adults began testing on postnatal day 90. Adult rats showed reduced working memory errors (WME) and gradual decrease in escape latencies compared to juveniles. Importantly, adult FO-supplemented females displayed fewer WME than males, while males’ performance benefited from CSO supplementation. Overall, sex- and supplementation-dependent effects supported a positive impact of FO in female rats only. Our findings support the potential for supplementation limited to the early adolescence period to influence adulthood spatial learning and cognitive flexibility in a sex-specific manner.

A Systematic Review of Nutritional Interventions on Key Cytokine Pathways in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Implications for Comorbid Depression: Is a More Comprehensive Approach Required?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with both local and systemic inflammatory processes via the aberrant regulation of inflammatory pathways and imbalances in several mediators of inflammation. Cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1B, IL-6, IL-17, IL-18, rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated protein, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) have been used in diagnosing and tracking the progression of RA. The primary objective of this review is to identify and summarize which specific dietary patterns and nutritional interventions go beyond symptom management to improve the response to known inflammatory cytokines and possibly decrease markers of inflammation in the RA disease process. Analysis of the 41 identified publications demonstrated that certain dietary patterns, the consumption of specific macronutrients, and supplementation with herbals or other compounds have shown some effect on improving cytokine profiles in patients with RA.

This review illustrates the importance of proper patient education on the anti-inflammatory and potential protective impacts substantial dietary change may have on the disease progression and symptoms of RA. Identifying nutritional interventions and dietary patterns that improve the inflammatory cytokine profile, and therefore disease progression and inflammatory comorbidities of RA will help further focus research on treatments that may provide a better overall improvement in quality of life for RA patients by focusing on the root cause inflammatory processes that affect not only joint destruction but also depression-rated disability. This review further notes that while depression is commonly found in patients who suffer from chronic illnesses, it is especially prevalent in the RA population. The pathology of depression is associated with systemic inflammation, which is a known outcome of RA and may explain this strong association. Cytokines IL-6, IL-1, and TNF-α, known mediators involved in the progression of RA, are strongly associated with stress-related disorders including depression and anxiety. The presence of these cytokines is also correlated with the severity and duration of depression. This may signal a potential use of cytokines in diagnosing and following the progression of depression not only in patients with RA but also others. Given the statistics presented on depression and suicide in patients with RA, and the shared inflammatory pathway between the two diseases, depression and suicide screening scales should be included along with analysis of inflammatory markers and disease activity scores (DAS) in any future RA study.

A cell-free difunctional demineralized bone matrix scaffold enhances the recruitment and osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells by promoting inflammation resolution

The dialogue between host macrophages (Mφs) and endogenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) promotes M2 Mφs polarization to resolve early-stage inflammation, thereby effectively guiding in situ bone regeneration. Once inflammation is unresolved/incontrollable, it will induce the impediment of MSCs homing at bone defect site, implying the seasonable resolution of inflammation in balancing bone homeostasis. Repeatedly, evidence elucidated that specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) could conduce to proper resolve inflammation and promote the repairing of bone defect. A difunctional demineralized bone matrix (DBM) scaffold co-modified by maresin 1 (MaR1) and aptamer 19S (Apt19S) was fabricated to facilitate the osteogenesis of MSCs. To confirm the osteogenesis and immunomodulatory role of the difunctional DBM scaffold, the proliferation, recruitment, and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and the Mφs M2 subtype polarization were evaluated in vitro. Then, the DBM scaffolds were implanted into mice model with critical size calvarial defect to evaluate bone repair efficiency. Finally, the specific resolution mechanism in Mφs cultured on the difunctional DBM scaffold was further in-depth investigated. This difunctional DBM scaffold exhibited an enhanced function on the recruitment, proliferation, migration, osteogenesis of MSCs and the resolution of inflammation, finally improved bone-scaffold integration. At the same time, MaR1 modified on the difunctional DBM scaffold increased the biosynthesis of 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) and 12S-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid (12S-HETE), and also directly stimulated lipid droplets (LDs) biogenesis in Mφs, which suggested that MaR1 regulated Mφ lipid metabolism at bone repair site. Findings based on this synergy strategy demonstrated that Mφ lipid metabolism was essential in bone homeostasis, which might provide a theoretical direction for the treatment-associated application of MaR1 in inflammatory bone disease.

Early Diagnosis and Prevention of Infections in Cirrhosis

Strategies to prevent infection and improve outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. HAV, hepatitis A virus; HBV, hepatitis B virus; COVID-19, novel coronavirus disease 2019; NSBB, nonselective β-blocker; PPI, proton pump inhibitors.Cirrhosis is a risk factor for infections. Majority of hospital admissions in patients with cirrhosis are due to infections. Sepsis is an immunological response to an infectious process that leads to end-organ dysfunction and death. Preventing infections may avoid the downstream complications, and early diagnosis of infections may improve the outcomes. In this review, we discuss the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and biomarkers of infection; the incremental preventive strategies for infections and sepsi; and the consequent organ failures in cirrhosis. Strategies for primary prevention include reducing gut translocation by selective intestinal decontamination, avoiding unnecessary proton pump inhibitors' use, appropriate use of β-blockers, and vaccinations for viral diseases including novel coronavirus disease 2019. Secondary prevention includes early diagnosis and a timely and judicious use of antibiotics to prevent organ dysfunction. Organ failure support constitutes tertiary intervention in cirrhosis. In conclusion, infections in cirrhosis are potentially preventable with appropriate care strategies to then enable improved outcomes.

Vesicular nucleotide transporter is a molecular target of eicosapentaenoic acid for neuropathic and inflammatory pain treatment

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid, is an essential nutrient that exhibits antiinflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardiovascular-protective activities. Although EPA is used as a nutrient-based pharmaceutical agent or dietary supplement, its molecular target(s) is debatable. Here, we showed that EPA and its metabolites strongly and reversibly inhibit vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT), a key molecule for vesicular storage and release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in purinergic chemical transmission. In vitro analysis showed that EPA inhibits human VNUT-mediated ATP uptake at a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 67 nM, acting as an allosteric modulator through competition with Cl^-. EPA impaired vesicular ATP release from neurons without affecting the vesicular release of other neurotransmitters. In vivo, VNUT^-/- mice showed a delay in the onset of neuropathic pain and resistance to both neuropathic and inflammatory pain. EPA potently attenuated neuropathic and inflammatory pain in wild-type mice but not in VNUT^-/- mice without affecting the basal nociception. The analgesic effect of EPA was canceled by the intrathecal injection of purinoceptor agonists and was stronger than that of existing drugs used for neuropathic pain treatment, with few side effects. Neuropathic pain impaired insulin sensitivity in previous studies, which was improved by EPA in the wild-type mice but not in the VNUT^-/- mice. Our results showed that VNUT is a molecular target of EPA that attenuates neuropathic and inflammatory pain and insulin resistance. EPA may represent a unique nutrient-based treatment and prevention strategy for neurological, immunological, and metabolic diseases by targeting purinergic chemical transmission.

Ulva pertusa, a Marine Green Alga, Attenuates DNBS-Induced Colitis Damage via NF-κB/Nrf2/SIRT1 Signaling Pathways

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) represent gastrointestinal (GI) disorders associated with varied responses to microbial and environmental agents. Natural compounds have been suggested as a valid approach to the management of various GI diseases, particularly the green alga Ulva pertusa, belonging to the Ulvaceae family, which showed powerful biological properties. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect and the mechanism of Ulva pertusa treatments in a murine model of DNBS-induced colitis. Colitis was induced by DNBS intrarectal installation (4 mg in 100 μL of 50% ethanol), while Ulva pertusa treatments (doses of 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg) were administered orally daily. Ulva pertusa, at the higher doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, significantly reduced tissue damage DNBS-induced and the consequent inflammatory cascade via NF-κB inhibition. Furthermore, we demonstrated, for the first time, Ulva pertusa action on the SIRT1/Nrf2 axis, enhancing antioxidant response and the modulation of the apoptosis pathway colitis-induced, regulating the expression of p53, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspases. Taken together, Ulva pertusa could be considered a valid approach for counteracting and blocking the progression of IBDs through modulation of the NF-κB/SIRT1/Nrf2 axis.

Comparison of metabolic profiles in aqueous humor of Fuchs' syndrome and presumed viral-induced anterior uveitis patients

PURPOSE

To investigate and compare the metabolic profiles in the aqueous humor of Han Chinese patients with Fuchs' syndrome and presumed viral-induced anterior uveitis (PVIAU).

METHODS

The metabolites in the aqueous humor of 20 Fuchs' syndrome patients, 20 PVIAU patients and 20 senile cataract control patients were detected by liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Differential metabolites were analyzed by Student's t-test, multivariate analysis, cluster analysis and correlation analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was applied to explore the potential disrupted metabolic pathways in Fuchs' syndrome and PVIAU.

RESULTS

Comparisons of metabolic profiles identified 29 differential metabolites between Fuchs' syndrome patients and controls, 36 differential metabolites between PVIAU patients and controls, and 30 differential metabolites between Fuchs' syndrome patients and PVIAU patients. DL-serine was markedly elevated in Fuchs' syndrome, and 1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine in PVIAU. KEGG pathway analysis suggested that the differential metabolites in Fuchs' syndrome compared with control were mostly enriched in central carbon metabolism in cancer, adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, and mineral absorption, while those in PVIAU compared with control were mostly enriched in protein digestion and absorption, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, and ABC transporters. The metabolic pathways differentially affected in Fuchs' syndrome compared to PVIAU included central carbon metabolism in cancer, protein digestion and absorption, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

In Fuchs' syndrome and PVIAU patients, the aqueous humor exhibited specific metabolic profiles and enriched metabolic pathways, which provides a better understanding of the pathogenesis of Fuchs' syndrome and PVIAU in Han Chinese patients. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Effects of Omega-3-6-9 fatty acid supplementation on behavior and sleep in preterm toddlers with autism symptomatology: Secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Children born extremely preterm disproportionately experience sequelae of preterm birth compared to those born at later gestational ages, including higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and associated behaviors.

AIM

Explore effects of combined dietary docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, and oleic acid (omega 3-6-9) on caregiver-reported behavior and sleep in toddlers born at ≤29 weeks' gestation who were exhibiting symptoms commonly seen with ASD.

STUDY DESIGN

90-day randomized (1:1), double blinded, placebo-controlled trial.

SUBJECTS

Thirty-one children aged 18-38 months received omega 3-6-9 (n = 15) or canola oil placebo (n = 16).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Mixed effects regression analyses followed intent to treat and explored treatment effects on measures of caregiver-reported behavior (Child Behavior Checklist 1.5-5, Toddler Behavior Assessment Questionnaire - Short Form, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition) and sleep (Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire).

RESULTS

Twenty-nine of 31 (94%; n_tx = 13, n_placebo = 16) children randomized had data available for at least one outcome measure, 27 (87%; n_tx = 12, n_placebo = 15) had complete outcome data. Children randomized to omega 3-6-9 experienced a medium magnitude benefit of supplementation on anxious and depressed behaviors (Δ_Difference = -1.27, d = -0.58, p = 0.049) and internalizing behaviors (Δ_Difference = -3.41, d = -0.68, p = 0.05); and a large magnitude benefit on interpersonal relationship adaptive behaviors (Δ_Difference = 7.50, d = 0.83, p = 0.01), compared to placebo. No effects were observed on other aspects of behavior or sleep.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings provide preliminary support for further exploration of omega 3-6-9 during toddlerhood to improve socioemotional outcomes among children born preterm, especially for those showing early symptoms commonly seen with ASD. Results need to be replicated in a larger sample.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01683565.

Dietary supplements for intestinal inflammation

Intestinal inflammation leads to various chronic diseases, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD mainly affects the large intestine, but it can also affect the gastrointestinal tract as a whole. Its major symptoms are pain, diarrhea, and weight loss, and it is usually associated with deficiencies of both macro- and micronutrients. Unluckily, after some time the body develops resistance against the already available drugs: thus, many patients fail to maintain remission, which is achieved in less than 50% of cases. Diet is a major determinant of gut inflammation. An unbalanced diet can affect the gut microbiota and cause dysbiosis, which is related to a dysregulated host immune response. The Mediterranean Diet its renowned for its anti-inflammatory effects and for preventing dysbiosis. In order to improve management and treatment of intestinal inflammatory diseases, it should become common practice to integrate the patient's diet with dietary supplements with anti-inflammatory effects (probiotics, butyrate, phosphatidylcholine, lactoferrin, palmitoylethanolamide, silymarin, and omega 3), which maintain the stability of the intestinal microbial cohort and strengthen the mucosal barrier, thus preventing or soothing IBD symptoms. Dietary supplements may help fight the high costs, the adverse side effects, and the recurrent relapses typical of drug use.

Targeting mTOR in the Context of Diet and Whole-body Metabolism

The mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is the central regulator of cell growth and proliferation by integrating growth factor and nutrient availability. Under healthy physiological conditions, this process is tightly coordinated and essential to maintain whole-body homeostasis. Not surprisingly, dysregulated mTOR signaling underpins several diseases with increasing incidence worldwide, including obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Consequently, there is significant clinical interest in developing therapeutic strategies that effectively target this pathway. The transition of mTOR inhibitors from the bench to bedside, however, has largely been marked with challenges and shortcomings, such as the development of therapy resistance and adverse side effects in patients. In this review, we discuss the current status of first-, second-, and third-generation mTOR inhibitors as a cancer therapy in both preclinical and clinical settings, with a particular emphasis on the mechanisms of drug resistance. We focus especially on the emerging role of diet as an important environmental determinant of therapy response, and posit a conceptual framework that links nutrient availability and whole-body metabolic states such as obesity with many of the previously defined processes that drive resistance to mTOR-targeted therapies. Given the role of mTOR as a central integrator of cell metabolism and function, we propose that modulating nutrient inputs through dietary interventions may influence the signaling dynamics of this pathway and compensatory nodes. In doing so, new opportunities for exploiting diet/drug synergies are highlighted that may unlock the therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors as a cancer treatment.

Eicosapentaenoic acid mitigates palmitic acid-induced heat shock response, inflammation and repair processes in fish intestine

Understanding the metabolic effects of fatty acids on fish intestine is critical to the substitution of fish oil with vegetable oils in aquaculture. In this study, the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and palmitic acid (PA) on fish intestine were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. As the first step for in vitro study, an intestinal cell line (SPIF) was established from silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus). Thereafter, the effects of EPA and PA on cell viability, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, and the expression of genes related to heat shock response, inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and degradation were examined in SPIF cells. Finally, these metabolic effects of EPA and PA on the intestine were examined in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. Results showed that all tested fatty acids (PA, oleic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid) except EPA reduced SPIF viability to distinct degrees at the same concentrations. PA decreased SPIF viability accompanied by an increase in PGE2 level. Meanwhile, PA increased the expression of genes related to heat shock response (grp78, grp94, hsp70, and hsp90) and inflammation (nf-κb, il-1β, and cox2). Furthermore, PA reduced the expression of collagen type I (col1a1a and col1a1b) and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation-related gene mmp2, while up-regulating timp2 mRNA expression. In vivo, PA also increased hsp70, il-1β, and cox2 mRNA levels and limited the expression of collagen type I in the larval zebrafish intestine. Interestingly, the combination of EPA and PA partially recovered the PA-induced changes in cell viability, PGE2 production, and mRNA expression in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that PA may result in heat shock and inflammatory responses, as well as alter ECM formation and degradation in fish intestine, while EPA could at least partially mitigate these negative effects caused by PA.

Ambient particulate matter (PM10)-induced injury in feline lung cells and nutritional intervention

Ambient particulate matter (APM) is extremely harmful to life's health. In this study, we investigated cellular injury in cat (Felix catus) lung cells (FCA-L2) exposed to organic and water-soluble extracts from APM. As well, the protective effect of vitamin E (VE), lycopene and a mixture of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (molar concentration ratio of 2:1) against this damage was evaluated. Organic and water-soluble extracts induced oxidative stress in FCA-L2 cells, as evidenced by excess reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial damage, while treatment with VE, lycopene and EPA: DHA remarkably alleviated these indices. It was further found that treatment with EPA: DHA decreased lactate dehydrogenase and malondialdehyde, as well as increased activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. Our study confirmed that nutrients mediates APM-induced oxidative stress via antioxidant proteins. Also, these findings could provide new insights into reducing APM-induced cytotoxicity by nutritional supplementation based on antioxidant compounds for animals.