Effect of fish oil supplementation on the concentration of miRNA-122, FGF-21 and liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD: Study protocol for a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial

EPA-rich Nannochloropsis oceanica biomass regulates gut microbiota, alleviates inflammation and ameliorates liver fibrosis in rats

Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to show anti-fibrotic effects by lowering inflammation and regulating the gut microflora. Marine microalgae are an alternative, sustainable source of omega-3 fatty acids to the conventionally used fish oil. Microalgae N. oceanica is a promising source of EPA, one of the essential omega-3 PUFAs. Current study investigates the inhibitory effects of EPA rich N. oceanica biomass against CCl4 induced liver fibrosis in rats. Here, we studied the anti-fibrotic effects in N. oceanica biomass fed groups: T1 - Low dose (4.16 mg/kg EPA), T2 - Medium dose (8.33 mg/kg EPA) and T3 - High dose (16.66 mg/kg EPA), when compared to fish oil fed group (FO - 16.66 mg/kg EPA) as a positive control. The elevated levels of serum liver biomarker enzymes and cholesterol induced by CCl4 showed a significant reduction in T3. Histopathological analysis showed the protective effects of biomass feeding on inflammation and hepatocyte degeneration. In addition, the abundance of the SCFA producing bacteria like Blautia argi, Romboutsia ilealis, Romboutsia timonensis, Stomatobaculum longum and Limosilactobacillus reuteri markedly increased in the PUFA fed groups. The cholesterol metabolising bacteria Eubacterium coprostanoligenes showed a noteworthy increase upon PUFA administration. Overall results indicate that the ameliorative effects observed upon administration of N. oceanica biomass were comparable to FO in a dose dependent manner. Therefore, we can conclude that N. oceanica biomass supplementation is associated with the alleviation of liver fibrosis in rats.

Dietary Pattern's Role in Hepatic Epigenetic and Dietary Recommendations for the Prevention of NAFLD

NAFLD has emerged as a significant public health concern, with its prevalence increasing globally. Emphasizing the complex relationship between dietary patterns and epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation or miRNA expression can exert a positive impact on preventing and managing metabolic disorders, including NAFLD, within the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This review aims to evaluate the influence of dietary patterns on hepatic epigenetic gene modulation and provide dietary recommendations for the prevention and management of NAFLD in the general population.

METHODS

Comprehensive screening and eligibility criteria identified eleven articles focusing on epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary modifications or nutrient supplementation.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Data were organized based on study types, categorizing them into evaluations of epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary pattern modifications or specific nutrient intake.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the importance of dietary interventions in managing and preventing NAFLD, emphasizing the potential of dietary patterns to influence hepatic epigenetic gene modulation. This study provides valuable insights and recommendations to mitigate the risk of developing NAFLD: (i) eat a primarily plant-based diet; (ii) increase consumption of high-fiber foods; (iii) consume more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids; (iv) limit processed foods, soft drinks, added sugars, and salt; and (v) avoid alcohol.

Supplementation of Micro- and Macronutrients-A Role of Nutritional Status in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which the pathological cumulation of fat with coexisting inflammation and damage of hepatic cells leads to progressive dysfunctions of the liver. Except for the commonly well-known major causes of NAFLD such as obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, or diabetes, an unbalanced diet and imbalanced nutritional status should also be taken into consideration. In this narrative review, we summarized the current knowledge regarding the micro- and macronutrient status of patients suffering from NAFLD considering various diets and supplementation of chosen supplements. We aimed to summarize the knowledge indicating which nutritional impairments may be associated with the onset and progression of NAFLD at the same time evaluating the potential therapy targets that could facilitate the healing process. Except for the above-mentioned objectives, one of the most important aspects of this review was to highlight the possible strategies for taking care of NAFLD patients taking into account the challenges and opportunities associated with the micronutrient status of the patients. The current research indicates that a supplementation of chosen vitamins (e.g., vitamin A, B complex, C, or D) as well as chosen elements such as zinc may alleviate the symptoms of NAFLD. However, there is still a lack of sufficient data regarding healthy ranges of dosages; thus, further research is of high importance in this matter.

Lifestyle and Quality of Life of Women Diagnosed with Hypothyroidism in the Context of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver

Interconnections between hypothyroidism and metabolic disturbances manifesting in the liver and body composition have not yet been comprehensively analyzed in the context of lifestyle. This study aimed to assess the selected lifestyle factors and quality of life in the context of the development of NAFL (non-alcoholic fatty liver) in women diagnosed with hypothyroidism. This study included 134 women categorized into three groups: with hypothyroidism and NAFL, with only hypothyroidism, and with only NAFL. We compared the groups concerning the KomPAN and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, body composition parameters, and the stage of liver steatosis. The individuals with NAFL most frequently consumed lard, fried dishes, processed meats, red meat, sweets, and sweetened beverages. The individuals with hypothyroidism without coexisting NAFL exhibited the highest satisfaction with health. The NAFL group had the highest average body fat percentage. Selected lifestyle aspects influenced the development of NAFL in women diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Women's overall quality of life did not vary depending on the coexisting medical conditions. Preventive programs should promote the following: the regular consumption of meals, the appropriate energy supply, physical activity, mental health support, and striving for proper body composition parameters.