N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids modulate in-vitro T cell function in type I diabetic patients

EPA Induces an Anti-Inflammatory Transcriptome in T Cells, Implicating a Triglyceride-Independent Pathway in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

Twice-daily intake of purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) reduces atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in patients with high triglycerides, but its exact mechanism remains unclear. We exposed non-activated CD4+ T cells to 100μM EPA, oleic acid, palmitic acid, or control, and conducted RNA and ATAC-sequencing after 48 hours. EPA exposure downregulated immune response-related genes like HLA-DRA, CD69, and IL2RA, and upregulated oxidative stress prevention genes like NQO1. Transcription factor footprinting showed decreased GATA3 and PU.1, and increased REV-ERB. These effects were specific to EPA, suggesting it induces an anti-inflammatory transcriptomic landscape in CD4+ T cells, contributing to its observed cardiovascular benefits.

The Protective Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Mitochondria in SH-SY5Y Model of Rotenone-Induced Toxicity

Background: Polyunsaturated fatty acids in particular omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential nutrients and components of the plasma membrane. They are involved in various processes, including synaptic development, functionality, integrity, and plasticity, and are therefore thought to have general neuroprotective properties. Considerable research evidence further supports the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically on mitochondria, through their antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, making them an attractive addition in treatment options for neurodegenerative disorders in which mitochondrial alterations are commonly observed. However, precise information on the underlying protective mechanisms is still lacking. Methods: We utilized the most common neuronal cell line (SH-SY5Y) and induced mitochondrial oxidative stress through the addition of rotenone. To study the potential protective effect of DHA, the cells were additionally pre-treated with DHA prior to rotenone administration. By combining SILAC labeling, mitochondria enrichment, and subsequent proteomic analyses, we aimed to determine the capacity of DHA to alleviate mitochondrial oxidative stress in vitro and further shed light on the molecular mechanisms contributing to the proposed neuroprotective effect. Results: We confirmed a reduced cell viability and an increased abundance of reactive oxygen species upon rotenone treatment, DHA pre-treatment was shown to decrease said species. Additionally proteomic analysis revealed an increased expression of mitochondrial proteins in DHA pre-treated cells. Conclusions: With our study, we were able to define a potential compensatory mechanism by which the inhibition of complex I is overcome by an increased activity of the fatty acid beta oxidation in response to DHA.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) alleviates inflammation and damage induced by experimental colitis

PURPOSE

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are chronic gastrointestinal disorders associated with significant morbidity and complications. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in a trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis model, focusing on inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal membrane permeability.

METHODS

Wistar albino rats were divided into Control, Colitis, and Colitis + DHA groups (n = 8-10/group). The Colitis and Colitis + DHA groups received TNBS intrarectally, while the Control group received saline. DHA (600 mg/kg/day) or saline was administered via gavage for six weeks. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of colon tissues were conducted. Parameters including occludin and ZO-1 expressions, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured in colon tissues.

RESULTS

Colitis induction led to significantly higher macroscopic and microscopic damage scores, elevated TOS levels, reduced occludin and ZO-1 intensity, decreased mucosal thickness, and TAS levels compared to the Control group (p < 0.001). DHA administration significantly ameliorated these parameters (p < 0.001). MPO, MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were elevated in the Colitis group but significantly reduced in the DHA-treated group (p < 0.001 for MPO, MDA; p < 0.05 for TNF-α and IL-6).

CONCLUSION

DHA demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by reducing reactive oxygen species production, enhancing TAS capacity, preserving GSH content, decreasing proinflammatory cytokine levels, preventing neutrophil infiltration, reducing shedding in colon epithelium, and improving gland structure and mucosal membrane integrity. DHA also upregulated the expressions of occludin and ZO-1, critical for barrier function. Thus, DHA administration may offer a therapeutic strategy or supplement to mitigate colitis-induced adverse effects.

Effects of subcutaneous vs. oral nanoparticle-mediated insulin delivery on hemostasis disorders in type 1 diabetes: A rat model study

Complications associated with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) have complex origins that revolve around chronic hyperglycemia; these complications involve hemostasis disorders, coagulopathies, and vascular damage. Our study aims to develop innovative approaches to minimize these complications and to compare the outcomes of the new approach with those of traditional methods. To achieve our objective, we designed novel nanoparticles comprising covalent organic frameworks (nCOF) loaded with insulin, termed nCOF/Insulin, and compared it to subcutaneous insulin to elucidate the influence of insulin delivery methods on various parameters, including bleeding time, coagulation factors, platelet counts, cortisol plasma levels, lipid profiles, and oxidative stress parameters. Traditional subcutaneous insulin injections exacerbated hemostasis disorder and vascular injuries in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats through increasing plasma triglycerides and lipid peroxidation. Conversely, oral delivery of nCOF/Insulin ameliorated hemostatic disorders and restored the endothelial oxidant/antioxidant balance by reducing lipid peroxidation and enhancing the lipid profile. Our study pioneers the understanding of how STZ-induced diabetes disrupts bleeding time, induces a hypercoagulable state, and causes vascular damage through lipid peroxidation. Additionally, it provides the first evidence for the involvement of subcutaneous insulin treatment in exacerbating vascular and hemostasis disorders in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Introducing an innovative oral insulin delivery via the nCOF approach represents a potential paradigm shift in diabetes management and patient care and promises to improve treatment strategies for type 1 Diabetes.

Molecular effects of Vitamin-D and PUFAs metabolism in skeletal muscle combating Type-II diabetes mellitus

Multiple post-receptor intracellular alterations such as impaired glucose transfer, glucose phosphorylation, decreased glucose oxidation, and glycogen production contribute to insulin resistance (IR) in skeletal muscle, manifested by diminished insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Type-2 diabetes mellites (T2DM) has caused by IR, which is also seen in obese patients and those with metabolic syndrome. The Vitamin-D receptor (VDR) and poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) roles in skeletal muscle growth, shapes, and function for combating type-2 diabetes have been clarified throughout this research. VDR and PUFAs appears to show a variety of effects on skeletal muscle, in addition it shows a promising role on bone and mineral homeostasis. Individuals having T2DM are reported to suffer from severe muscular weakness and alterations in shape of the muscle. Several studies have investigated the effect on VDR on muscular strength and mass, which leads to Vitamin-D deficiency (VDD) in individuals, in which most commonly seen in elderly. VDR has been shown to affect skeletal cellular proliferation, intracellular calcium handling, as well as genomic activity in a variety of different ways such as muscle metabolism, insulin sensitivity, which is the major characteristic pathogenesis for IR in combating T2DM. The identified VDR gene polymorphisms are ApaI, TaqI, FokI, and BsmI that are associated with T2DM. This review collates informations on the mechanisms by which VDR activation takes place in skeletal muscles. Despite the significant breakthroughs made in recent decades, various studies show that IR affects VDR and PUFAs metabolism in skeletal muscle. Therefore, this review collates the data to show the role of VDR and PUFAs in the skeletal muscles to combat T2DM.

Dual oxidative stress and fatty acid profile impacts in Paracentrotus lividus exposed to lambda-cyhalothrin: biochemical and histopathological responses

Lambda-cyhalothrin (λ-cyh) is a potential pyrethroid insecticide widely used in pest control. The presence of pyrethroids in the aquatic ecosystem may induce adverse effects on non-target organisms such as the sea urchin. This study was conducted to assess the toxic effects of λ-cyh on the fatty acid profiles, redox status, and histopathological aspects of Paracentrotus lividus gonads following exposure to three concentrations of λ-cyh (100, 250 and 500 µg/L) for 72 h. The results showed a significant decrease in saturated fatty acid (SFAs) with an increase in monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs) levels in λ-cyh treated sea urchins. The highest levels in PUFAs were recorded in the eicosapentaenoic acids (C20:5n-3), docosahexaenoic acids (C22:6n-3) and arachidonic acids (C20:4n-6) levels. The λ-cyh intoxication promoted oxidative stress with an increase in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels. Furthermore, the enzymatic activities and non-enzymatic antioxidants levels were enhanced in all exposed sea urchins, while the vitamin C levels were decreased in 100 and 500 µg/L treated groups. Our biochemical results have been confirmed by the histopathological observations. Collectively, our findings offered valuable insights into the importance of assessing fatty acids' profiles as a relevant tool in aquatic ecotoxicological studies.

Impairment of Endogenous Synthesis of Omega-3 DHA Exacerbates T-Cell Inflammatory Responses

Omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are involved in numerous biological processes and have a range of health benefits. DHA is obtained through the action of elongases (ELOVLs) and desaturases, among which Elovl2 is the key enzyme involved in its synthesis, and can be further metabolized into several mediators that regulate the resolution of inflammation. Our group has recently reported that ELOVL2 deficient mice (Elovl2^-/-) not only display reduced DHA levels in several tissues, but they also have higher pro-inflammatory responses in the brain, including the activation of innate immune cells such as macrophages. However, whether impaired synthesis of DHA affects cells of adaptive immunity, i.e., T lymphocytes, is unexplored. Here we show that Elovl2^-/- mice have significantly higher lymphocytes in peripheral blood and that both CD8+ and CD4+ T cell subsets produce greater amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines in both blood and spleen compared to wild type mice, with a higher percentage of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells (CTLs) as well as IFN-γ-producing Th1 and IL-17-producing Th17 CD4+ cells. Furthermore, we also found that DHA deficiency impacts the cross-talk between dendritic cells (DC) and T cells, inasmuch as mature DCs of Elovl2^-/- mice bear higher expression of activation markers (CD80, CD86 and MHC-II) and enhance the polarization of Th1 and Th17 cells. Reintroducing DHA back into the diets of Elovl2^-/- mice reversed the exacerbated immune responses observed in T cells. Hence, impairment of endogenous synthesis of DHA exacerbates T cell inflammatory responses, accounting for an important role of DHA in regulating adaptive immunity and in potentially counteracting T-cell-mediated chronic inflammation or autoimmunity.

Metabolic and Metabolomic Insights Regarding the Omega-3 PUFAs Intake in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is currently considered an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of pancreatic β-cells, insulin deficiency, and dysglycemia. Dietary factors, including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs), were reported to influence T1DM. Therefore, a better understanding of the potential role of ω-3 PUFAs in the development and progression of T1DM will help to improve the clinical management of the disease. In this review, we explored the current understanding of molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways induced by ω-3 PUFAs and the beneficial effects of ω-3 PUFAs intake in the prevention and treatment of T1DM, as well as the underlying possible metabolomic (lipidomics) changes.

Effects of fatty acids on T cell function: role in atherosclerosis

T cells are among the most common cell types present in atherosclerotic plaques and are increasingly being recognized as a central mediator in atherosclerosis development and progression. At the same time, triglycerides and fatty acids have re-emerged as crucial risk factors for atherosclerosis. Triglycerides and fatty acids are important components of the milieu to which the T cell is exposed from the circulation to the plaque, and increasing evidence shows that fatty acids influence T cell function. In this Review, we discuss the effects of fatty acids on four components of the T cell response - metabolism, activation, proliferation and polarization - and the influence of these changes on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We also discuss how quiescent T cells can undergo a type of metabolic reprogramming induced by exposure to fatty acids in the circulation that influences the subsequent functions of T cells after activation, such as in atherosclerotic plaques.

Antioxidant Activity of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Its Regulatory Roles in Mitochondria

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are single-electron-bearing oxidation-reduction products that are mainly produced in mitochondria. Excessive ROS accumulation may lead to oxidative damage. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential component of brain phospholipids and is mainly derived from the diet. Its antioxidant activities have been extensively studied. However, its regulatory roles in mitochondria and the underlying mechanism remain to be elucidated. In this study, the DHA's effect on cellular antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial functions was examined in HepG2 cells. The results showed that 100 μM DHA decreased cellular and mitochondrial ROS levels to 75.2 ± 9.4% (P < 0.05) and 55.1 ± 1.4% (P < 0.01), respectively. It also increased the total antioxidant capacity by 55.6 ± 0.1 and 49.2 ± 1.1% (P < 0.05), based on ABTS and FRAP assay results, respectively. Consistently, it increased the activities and gene expression of major antioxidant enzymes by at least 35 and 40% (P < 0.05), respectively. Furthermore, DHA promoted mitochondrial functions and biogenesis. These data suggested that DHA's antioxidant activity can be attributed to its enhancement of mitochondrial functions and biogenesis. This study may shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying DHA's function in improving resistance to and relieving the symptoms of chronic disease.

Effect of cadmium exposure on essential omega-3 fatty acids in the edible bivalve Donax trunculus

Donax trunculus is the most consumed bivalve by the local population of the Northeast Algeria for its nutritional value. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine the effects of cadmium (Cd), a known toxic metal, on the alterations in main essential omega-3 fatty acids, i.e., eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; C20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22:6n-3), in male and female gonads of D. trunculus during the reproduction period at spring (before spawning). Additionally, this work seeks to describe the relation between EPA and DHA with non-methylene-interrupted dienoic (NMID) fatty acids, and explores their possible contribution of to protect against Cd stress. The samples were collected at El Battah, a relatively clean sea shore, and reared in the laboratory. Physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen were measured. Cd was added to the rearing water at two sublethal concentrations (LC₁₀ and LC₂₅-96h, as determined previously). A two-way ANOVA analysis indicated significant effects of concentrations and genders for both fatty acids. Our results showed a significant reduction in EPA and DHA concentrations in the both genders, with a strong effect in females. There was also a negative correlation between NMID fatty acids and the two essential omega-3 fatty acids for each gender.

In vitro effects of oil's fatty acids on T cell function in gestational diabetic pregnant women and their newborns

BACKGROUND

The aim of this investigation was to determine the in vitro effects of linseed, olive and Nigel oils on T cell proliferation and function in gestational diabetes.

METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 40 control healthy and 32 gestational diabetic mothers and their newborns. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were isolated using a density gradient of Ficoll. T cell proliferation, interleukin-2 and -4 (IL-2, IL-4) secretion, fatty acid composition and intracellular oxidative status were investigated.

RESULTS

Mitogen (Concanavalin A) stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, IL-2 secretion, intracellular reduced glutathione levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities were lower while intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) and carbonyl proteins were higher in diabetic mothers and in their newborns as compared to their respective controls. Linseed oil induced a reduction in T-lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 production, and alpha linolenic acid membrane enrichment in both diabetic and control groups. In the presence of Nigel oil, T-lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 secretion, phospholipid linoleic and oleic acids were enhanced. Olive oil had no effect on lymphocyte proliferation in all groups. Linseed, olive and Nigel oils induced an increase in T cell levels of reduced glutathione levels and in activities of catalase and SOD with a concomitant decrease in MDA and carbonyl protein contents.

CONCLUSION

Linseed, olive and Nigel oils had beneficial effects on T cell functions in gestational diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes, PUFAs, and vitamin D: their relation to inflammation

Chronic diseases have become one of the most important public health problems, due to their high costs for treatment and prevention. Until now, researchers have considered that the etiology of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is multifactorial. Recently, the study of the innate immune system has offered an explanation model of the pathogenesis of T2DM. On the other hand, there is evidence about the beneficial effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) n-3 and n-6 in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases including diabetes. Furthermore, high vitamin D plasmatic concentrations have been associated with the best performance of pancreatic β cells and the improving of this disease. In conclusion, certain fatty acids in the adequate proportion as well as 25-hydroxivitamin D can modulate the inflammatory response in diabetic people, modifying the evolution of this disease.

Gene-PUFA interactions and obesity risk

Although there are indications for modulatory effects of PUFA on associations between SNP and obesity risk, scientific evidence in human subjects is still scarce. The present analyses investigated interaction effects between SNP in candidate genes for obesity and PUFA in erythrocyte membranes on obesity risk. Within the second Bavarian Food Consumption Survey (cross-sectional, population-based), 568 adults provided blood samples. Fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed by means of GC. Genotyping was performed for twenty-one genes, including cytokines, adipokines, neurotransmitters and transcription factors. In addition, plasma IL-6 concentrations were analysed. For the statistical analysis, a logistic regression model assuming additive genetic effects was chosen. About 20 % of the study participants were classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2)). Several significant gene-PUFA interactions were found, indicating regulatory effects of PUFA by gene variants of IL-2, IL-6, IL-18, TNF receptor family member 1B and 21, leptin receptor and adiponectin on obesity risk. After stratification by genotype, the strongest effects were found for rs2069779 (IL-2) and all tested PUFA as well as for rs1800795 (IL-6) and linoleic or arachidonic acid. The obesity risk of minor allele carriers significantly decreased with increasing fatty acid content. The genetic PUFA-IL-6 interaction was also reflected in plasma IL-6 concentrations. If replicated in a prospective study with sufficient statistical power, the results would indicate a beneficial effect of high PUFA supply for a substantial proportion of the population with respect to obesity risk.

Poxytrins, a class of oxygenated products from polyunsaturated fatty acids, potently inhibit blood platelet aggregation

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an important component of marine lipids, exhibits anti-inflammatory activity related to some of its oxygenated metabolites, such as neuroprotectin/protectin D1 [NPD1/PD1; 10(R),17(S)-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z, 11E,13E,15Z,19Z-hexaenoic acid] produced through the 15-lipoxygenase pathway. However, other metabolites from DHA can be produced through this pathway, and other polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) of nutritional value may be oxygenated as well. Their biological activities remain unknown. Isomers of protectin D1 were synthesized using soybean lipoxygenase and tested for their ability to inhibit human blood platelet aggregation. A geometric isomer called PDX, previously described with the 11E,13Z,15E geometry, instead of 11E,13E,15Z in PD1, inhibited platelet aggregation at submicromolar concentrations when induced by either collagen, arachidonic acid, or thromboxane. The inhibition occurred at the level of both the cyclooxygenase activity and thromboxane receptor site. Interestingly, all the metabolites tested exhibiting the E,Z,E-conjugated triene were active, whereas E,E,Z trienes (as in PD1) or all-trans (E,E,E) trienes were inactive. We conclude that PDX and other oxygenated products from PUFAs of nutritional interest, having the E,Z,E-conjugated triene motif and collectively named poxytrins (PUFA oxygenated trienes), might have antithrombotic potential.

Arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acid deficits in preterm neonatal mononuclear cell membranes. Implications for the immune response at birth

Preterm neonates are more susceptible to infection than term neonates. Arachidonic acid (20:4n-6) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) are biologically active components of cell membrane phospholipids. Arachidonic acid is a substrate for the synthesis of eicosanoids, potent regulators of immune function. Preterm babies may have a deficiency of arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, but the impact of this deficit on maturation of the immune system is unknown. To address this we explored links between placental provision of fatty acids to cord blood mononuclear cell (CBMC) membranes using gas chromatography (GC), and maturation of the immune response with gestational age by analysing lymphocyte subsets by flow cytometry. This is the first study to examine the lipid profile of the phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) fractions of CBMC membranes from preterm neonates. The long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) composition of CBMC membranes was dominated by arachidonic acid in both PE (34%) and PC (15%) fractions in healthy term neonates (> or =37 weeks, n=9), whilst in healthy preterm neonates (<37 weeks, n=10) the level of arachidonic acid was significantly lower at 28.8% and 12.5% respectively (p<0.05). Preterm neonates (<37 weeks, n=23) also had significantly lower absolute numbers of CD4+ (p<0.05) leukocytes and CD4+ (p<0.01) and CD8+ (p<0.05) naïve T-cells than term (> or =37 weeks, n=24) neonates that correlated with gestational age (p<0.01-0.05).