Potential applications of fish oils rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the management of gastrointestinal cancer

Fish waste biorefinery: A novel approach to promote industrial sustainability

In pursuit of sustainability and resource efficiency, concept of the circular economy has emerged as a promising framework for industries worldwide. The global fish processing industry generates a significant amount of waste, posing environmental challenges and economic inefficiencies. The substantial volume of fish waste generated globally along with its environmental impact highlights the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices. However, there is significant transformative potential in leveraging fish processing waste to generate industrial value. There are numerous applications of fish processing waste such as extraction of enzymes, protein hydrolysates, collagen, and gelatin. Moreover, the capacity of fish waste to generate chitin, fish oil, and biofuels foresees a future for sustainable resource management. However, it is also necessary to emphasize the need for innovation, and cross-sector collaboration to unlock this potential. While challenges lie ahead, this review explores transformative power of circular economy in reshaping the fisheries industry towards more sustainable future.

Association of healthy diet score and adiposity with risk of colorectal cancer: findings from the UK Biobank prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To explore the joint association of dietary patterns and adiposity with colorectal cancer (CRC), and whether adiposity mediates the relationship between dietary patterns and CRC risk, which could provide deeper insights into the underlying pathogenesis of CRC.

METHODS

The data of 307,023 participants recruited between 2006 and 2010 were extracted from the UK Biobank study. Healthy diet scores were calculated based on self-reported dietary data at baseline, and participants were categorized into three groups, namely, low, intermediate, and high diet score groups. Cox regression models with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the effects of the healthy diet score on CRC incidence, adjusting for various covariates. Furthermore, the mediation roles of obesity and central obesity between the healthy diet score and CRC risk were assessed using a counterfactual causal analysis based on Cox regression model. Additionally, joint association between dietary patterns and adiposity on CRC risks was assessed on the additive and multiplicative scales.

RESULTS

Over a median 6.2-year follow-up, 3,276 participants developed CRC. After adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, a lower risk of CRC incidence was found for participants with intermediate (HR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.72 to 0.95) and high diet scores (HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62 to 0.87) compared to those with low diet scores. When compared with the low diet score group, obesity accounted for 4.13% and 7.93% of the total CRC effect in the intermediate and high diet score groups, respectively, while central obesity contributed to 3.68% and 10.02% of the total CRC risk in the intermediate and high diet score groups, respectively. The mediating effect of adiposity on CRC risk was significant in men but not in women. Concurrent unhealthy diet and adiposity multiplied CRC risk.

CONCLUSION

Adiposity-mediated effects were limited in the link between dietary patterns and CRC incidence, implying that solely addressing adiposity may not sufficiently reduce CRC risk. Interventions, such as improving dietary quality in people with adiposity or promoting weight control in those with unhealthy eating habits, may provide an effective strategy to reduce CRC risk.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) impairs hypoxia-induced cellular and exosomal overexpression of immune-checkpoints and immunomodulatory molecules in different subtypes of breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Tumor cells express immune-checkpoint molecules to suppress anti-tumor immune responses. In part, immune evasion takes place by secreting exosomes bearing immune-checkpoint and immunomodulatory molecules and their inducing and/or regulating agents e.g., microRNAs (miRs). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on the expression of some selected immune-checkpoint and immunomodulatory molecules and their regulating miRs under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions in triple negative (TNBC) invasive and triple positive non-invasive breast cancer cell lines.

METHODS

MDA-MB-231 and BT-474 cells were treated with 100 µM DHA under hypoxic and normoxic conditions for 24 h. Exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifuge and confirmed by electron microscope and anti-CD9, -CD63, -CD81 immunoblotting. Total RNA from cells and exosomes were extracted and expression of CD39, CD73, CD47, CD80, PD-L1, B7-H3, B7-H4 genes and their related miRs were evaluated by quantitative Real-time PCR.

RESULTS

This study showed significant over-expression of immune-checkpoint and immunomodulatory molecules under hypoxic condition. Treatment with DHA resulted in a significant decrease in immune-checkpoint and immunomodulatory molecule expression as well as an upregulation of their regulatory miRNA expression.

CONCLUSION

DHA supplementation may be utilized in breast cancer therapy for down-regulation of cellular and exosomal immune escape-related molecules.

Analysis of Fatty Acids and Amino Acids of Three Local Freshwater Bagridae Fish Species in the Kampar Kanan River, Indonesia, for Food Security

Fish have become an irreplaceable dietary source of animal protein, especially among households with low socioeconomic status in rural and urban areas of Indonesia. This study is aimed at analysing the proximate composition, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids of three local Bagridae fish species in the Kampar Kanan river, Indonesia. The standard AOAC method was employed to examine the proximate composition of the carcass, and the analysis of amino acids and fatty acids was conducted through HPLC and GC-MS, respectively. The mineral content was determined using AAS. The nutrient composition results of Hemibagrus nemurus, Hemibagrus wyckii, and Mystus nigriceps revealed that the protein content was 24.26%, 22.57%, and 21.39% (% dry weight), whereas the total lipid content was 6.64%, 7.47%, and 7.75%, respectively. Regarding mineral contents, the calcium levels ranged from 1.49 to 1.66 mg/g, iron levels from 28.35 to 40.36 μg/g, and zinc levels from 24.03 to 54.46 μg/g. Among the fatty acids, palmitic acid was the most abundant in all three species, accounting for 25.59-30.70% of the total fatty acids. Additionally, significant amounts of C18:1 (oleic acid), C18:0 (stearic acid), and C20:4 (arachidonic acid) were also detected as primary fatty acids. The calculated atherogenic index values in the three species of Bagridae fish ranged from 0.73 to 0.99, while the thrombogenic index values varied between 0.54 and 0.75. The predominant amino acids found in the three species of Bagridae fish were glutamic acid with their concentrations ranging from 9.10 to 24.34%. These results indicate that consuming the meat of these three freshwater Bagridae fish species caught in the wild does not pose any health risks to consumers. They can be considered a safe and suitable food source with good nutritional quality.

The Salmon Oil OmeGo Reduces Viability of Colorectal Cancer Cells and Potentiates the Anti-Cancer Effect of 5-FU

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. Chemotherapy is toxic to normal cells, and combinatory treatment with natural well-tolerated products is being explored. Some omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and marine fish oils have anti-cancer effects on CRC cells. The salmon oil OmeGo (Hofseth BioCare) contains a spectrum of fatty acids, including the n-3 PUFAs docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosahexaenoic acid (EPA). We explored a potential anti-cancer effect of OmeGo on the four CRC cell lines DLD-1, HCT-8, LS411N, and LS513, alone and in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Screening indicated a time- and dose-dependent effect of OmeGo on the viability of the DLD-1 and LS513 CRC cell lines. Treatment with 5-FU and OmeGo (IC20-IC30) alone indicated a significant reduction in viability. A combinatory treatment with OmeGo and 5-FU resulted in a further reduction in viability in DLD-1 and LS513 cells. Treatment of CRC cells with DHA + EPA in a concentration corresponding to the content in OmeGo alone or combined with 5-FU significantly reduced viability of all four CRC cell lines tested. The lowest concentration of OmeGo reduced viability to a higher degree both alone and in combination with 5-FU compared to the corresponding concentrations of DHA + EPA in three of the cell lines. Results suggest that a combination of OmeGo and 5-FU could have a potential as an alternative anti-cancer therapy for patients with CRC.

Review of Eukaryote Cellular Membrane Lipid Composition, with Special Attention to the Fatty Acids

Biological membranes, primarily composed of lipids, envelop each living cell. The intricate composition and organization of membrane lipids, including the variety of fatty acids they encompass, serve a dynamic role in sustaining cellular structural integrity and functionality. Typically, modifications in lipid composition coincide with consequential alterations in universally significant signaling pathways. Exploring the various fatty acids, which serve as the foundational building blocks of membrane lipids, provides crucial insights into the underlying mechanisms governing a myriad of cellular processes, such as membrane fluidity, protein trafficking, signal transduction, intercellular communication, and the etiology of certain metabolic disorders. Furthermore, comprehending how alterations in the lipid composition, especially concerning the fatty acid profile, either contribute to or prevent the onset of pathological conditions stands as a compelling area of research. Hence, this review aims to meticulously introduce the intricacies of membrane lipids and their constituent fatty acids in a healthy organism, thereby illuminating their remarkable diversity and profound influence on cellular function. Furthermore, this review aspires to highlight some potential therapeutic targets for various pathological conditions that may be ameliorated through dietary fatty acid supplements. The initial section of this review expounds on the eukaryotic biomembranes and their complex lipids. Subsequent sections provide insights into the synthesis, membrane incorporation, and distribution of fatty acids across various fractions of membrane lipids. The last section highlights the functional significance of membrane-associated fatty acids and their innate capacity to shape the various cellular physiological responses.

Multidisciplinary nutritional management improves nutritional and hospitalized outcomes of patients with esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy: A randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the effects of multidisciplinary whole-course nutrition management on the nutritional status and complications during the course of treatment in patients with esophageal cancer (EC) undergoing chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS

A total of 36 EC patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy were divided into a control group (n = 18) and an intervention group (n = 18). Participants in the control group were given routine nutritional support, whereas those in the intervention group were provided whole-course nutrition management from the nutrition support team. Nutrition-related indicators, that is, serum albumin level (ALB), hemoglobin (Hb), and C reactive protein were assessed before, during, and after treatment in both groups. The incidence of complications (e.g., lymphocytopenia, radiation esophagitis, and myelosuppression), clinical outcomes, length of hospital stay, and hospital costs were also recorded. Differences between the 2 groups were tested using the Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

The ALB and Hb levels of the patients in the control group decreased significantly [ALB: -2.6 (-5.6, 0), P = .01; Hb: -12.0 (-27.0, -2.0), P = .04] and C reactive protein increased [8.9 (2.9, 14.9), P = .02] compared to those before treatment, while the indicators of participants in the intervention group did not change (P > .05). The incidence of grade ≥ II lymphocytopenia was higher in the control group than that in the intervention group (33.3% vs 61.1%, P = .03). Moreover, compared with the control group, the average length of hospital stay decreased by 12 days [47 (40, 50) vs 35 (23, 40), P = .001], and in-patient expenses decreased by 20,504 CNY in the intervention group (P = .004).

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary whole-course nutrition management can maintain the nutritional status of patients with EC undergoing chemoradiotherapy. This may lower the incidence of complications, shorten hospital stays, and reduce in-patient expenses.

Synthesis of encapsulated fish oil using whey protein isolate to prevent the oxidative damage and cytotoxicity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in rats

Fish oil exhibited several beneficial effects on human health; however, its applications face several challenges such as its effects on the organoleptic properties of food and its susceptibility to oxidation. Titanium dioxide NPs (TiO2-NPs) are utilized widely in pharmaceutical and food applications although there are some reports about their oxidative damage to living organisms. The current work was undertaken to identify fatty acids content in mullet fish oil, encapsulation, and characterization of the oil, and to assess the protective efficiency of the encapsulated mullet fish oil (EMFO) against the oxidative damage and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs in rats. Sixty female Sprague-Dawley rats were distributed to 6 groups and treated for 21 days included the control group; TiO2-NPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w); the groups treated with EMFO (50 or 100 mg/kg b.w) and the groups received TiO2-NPs plus EMFO at the low or high dose. Samples of blood, liver, and kidney were taken for different assays and histological studies. The GC-FID analysis showed that a total of 14 different fatty acids were found in Mullet fish oil included 41.4% polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), 31.1% monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and 25.1% saturated fatty acids (SFAs). The structure of EMFO was spherical with an average diameter of 234.5 nm and a zeta potential of -6.24 mV and was stable up to 10 days at 25 °C with EE of 81.08%. The PV of EMFO was decreased at 5 days then increased at 15 days; however, TBARS was increased throughout the storage time over 15 days. The biological evaluation showed that TiO2-NPs disturb the hepato-nephro functions, lipid profile, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes activity, and their corresponding gene expression along with severe pathological alterations in both hepatic and renal tissue. Co-administration of EMFO induced a strong antioxidant role, and the high level could normalize the majority of the parameters tested and the histological picture of the hepatic and renal tissues. These results pointed out that the encapsulation technology enhances the protective role of EMFO against oxidative stress and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs through the prevention of ω-3 PUFAs oxidation and controlling their release.

Study on the effects of the different polar group of EPA-enriched phospholipids on the proliferation and apoptosis in 95D cells

EPA-enriched phosphatidylcholine (EPA-PC) and EPA-enriched phosphatidylethanolamine (EPA-PE) are newly identified marine phospholipids. The polar group of phospholipids is known to influence EPA-phospholipid activity. However, the differences in anti-tumor effects between EPA-PC and EPA-PE have not been reported. In this study, we evaluated the effects of two forms of EPA on the proliferation and apoptosis in the lung-cancer cell line 95D as well as possible molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that EPA-PC effectively inhibited proliferative activity and promoted apoptosis of 95D cells in a dose-dependent manner, while EPA-PE had no effect on cell proliferation, although it slightly promoted apoptosis. Western blot results showed that EPA-PC and EPA-PE upregulated the expression of PPARγ, RXRα, and PTEN, and downregulated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, EPA-PC and EPA-PE induced the expression of the pro-apoptotic gene, Bax, and reduced the expression of the anti-apoptotic gene, Bcl-xl. Additionally, EPA-PC and EPA-PE promoted the release of cytochrome c and activated the apoptotic enzyme-cleaved caspase-3. These data suggest that the anti-tumor effect of EPA-phospholipids may be exerted via a PPARγ-related mechanism. EPA-PC was more efficacious as compared to EPA-PE, which might be due to the different polar groups of phospholipids.

Heavy metals bioaccumulation in marine cultured fish and its probabilistic health hazard

In aquacultures, heavy metals could be accumulated in fish tissues from natural and human-related sources depending on different factors. This study aims to estimate the level of bioaccumulation of heavy metals in cultured Gilt-head sea bream Sparusaurata. In this regard, heavy metals concentrations were measured in both water and fish musculature that were collected from a private fish farm in Kafr ElSheikh, Egypt. Regarding the water samples, heavy metals were within the permissible limits with exception of Cd, Cu, and Zn. In fish musculature, all heavy metals were within the WHO/FAO permissible limits. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) indicated that mostly all heavy metals accumulation in the Gilt-head sea bream musculature decreased with time which may be correlated with the increase in water pH, calcium, and other cations concentrations. The hazard index (HI) calculations indicate no adverse health effects of heavy metals on humans through daily fish consumption so far. However, health risks are not negligible making the regular monitoring of metal contaminants in the studied area a necessity.

Pharmacological and nutritional targeting of voltage-gated sodium channels in the treatment of cancers

Voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels, initially characterized in excitable cells, have been shown to be aberrantly expressed in non-excitable cancer tissues and cells from epithelial origins such as in breast, lung, prostate, colon, and cervix, whereas they are not expressed in cognate non-cancer tissues. Their activity was demonstrated to promote aggressive and invasive potencies of cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo, whereas their deregulated expression in cancer tissues has been associated with metastatic progression and cancer-related death. This review proposes NaV channels as pharmacological targets for anticancer treatments providing opportunities for repurposing existing NaV-inhibitors or developing new pharmacological and nutritional interventions.

Establishment of a Patient-Derived Xenograft Model of Colorectal Cancer in CIEA NOG Mice and Exploring Smartfish Liquid Diet as a Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Cancer patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) better preserve tumor characteristics and microenvironment than traditional cancer cell line derived xenografts and are becoming a valuable model in translational cancer research and personalized medicine. We have established a PDX model for colorectal cancer (CRC) in CIEA NOG mice with a 50% engraftment rate. Tumor fragments from patients with CRC (n = 5) were engrafted in four mice per tumor (n = 20). Mice with established PDXs received a liquid diet enriched with fish oil or placebo, and fatty acid profiling was performed to measure fatty acid content in whole blood. Moreover, a biobank consisting of tissue and blood samples from patients was established. Histology, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization procedures were used for staining of tumor and xenograft tissue slides. Results demonstrate that key histological characteristics of the patients’ tumors were retained in the established PDXs, and the liquid diets were consumed as intended by the mice. Some of the older mice developed lymphomas that originated from human Ki67⁺, CD45⁺, and EBV⁺ lymphoid cells. We present a detailed description of the process and methodology, as well as possible issues that may arise, to refine the method and improve PDX engraftment rate for future studies. The established PDX model for CRC can be used for exploring different cancer treatment regimes, and liquid diets enriched with fish oil may be successfully delivered to the mice through the drinking flasks.

Krill oil extract inhibits the migration of human colorectal cancer cells and down-regulates EGFR signalling and PD-L1 expression

BACKGROUND

The currently available treatments for colorectal cancer (CRC) are often associated with serious side-effects. Therefore, the development of a novel nutraceutical agent may provide an alternative complementary therapy for CRC. Overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) associates with a range of cancers while downregulation of EGFR signalling can inhibit cancer growth. Our previous studies have shown that the free fatty acid extract (FFAE) of krill oil exhibits anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic properties. This study determines the effects of krill oil extract on the migration of human CRC cells, and its potential role in modulating EGFR signalling pathway and the expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1).

METHODS

Human CRC cells, DLD-1 and HT-29 were treated with FFAE of KO at 0.03 and 0.12 μL/100 μL for 8 or 24 h. Cell migration was determined by Boyden chamber migration assay. The expression of EGFR, phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR), protein kinase B (AKT), phosphorylated AKT (pAKT), extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK1/2), phosphorylated ERK1/2 (pERK1/2) as well as PD-L1 were assessed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The FFAE of krill oil significantly inhibited cell migration compared to ethanol-treated (vehicle control) cells (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). At the molecular level, krill oil extract reduced the expression of EGFR, pEGFR (P < 0.001 for both) and their downstream signalling, pERK1/2 and pAKT (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001) without altering total ERK 1/2 and AKT levels. In addition, the expression of PD-L1 was reduced by 67 to 72% (P < 0.001) following the treatment with krill oil extract.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that krill oil may be a potential therapeutic/adjunctive agent for CRC attributed to its anti-migratory effects.. The potential anti-cancer properties of krill oil are likely to be associated with the downregulation of EGFR, pEGFR and their downstream pERK/ERK1/2 and pAKT/AKT signalling pathways along with the downregulation of PD-L1.

Enhancing the physicochemical stability and digestibility of DHA emulsions by encapsulation of DHA droplets in caseinate/alginate honeycomb-shaped microparticles

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was encapsulated in caseinate/alginate microparticles by adjusting the pH based on the electrostatic complexation, in order to improve the physicochemical stability and digestibility of single caseinate-stabilized DHA emulsions. In this study, relatively stable honeycomb-shaped DHA microparticles were formed by electrostatic complexation between positively charged caseinate-coated DHA droplets, caseinate and negatively charged alginate at pH 4.5. The zeta-potential, particle size, size distribution, physical stability, microstructure, DHA oxidation and free fatty acids (FFA) release rate in a simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT) model were determined. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) measurements indicated that DHA microparticles had a particle size (1521.00 ± 39.15 nm) significantly larger than that of caseinate-stabilized DHA emulsions (243.23 ± 4.51 nm). The microparticles were much more stable near the isoelectric point (pI) of the adsorbed proteins compared with the single emulsions according to the original transmissions of LUMiSizer. The cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM) images also showed that the microparticles formed a specific honeycomb-shaped network structure with more uniform distribution and without aggregation. The incorporation of DHA droplets into caseinate/alginate microparticles significantly ameliorated their chemical stability. GIT studies showed that the digestion of DHA microparticles was enhanced which was due to more open loose structures compared with the large-scale close-knit aggregation of DHA emulsion droplets. This study may provide useful information for the stabilization of functional food components and rational design of nutraceutical delivery systems.

Δ6 fatty acid desaturases in polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis: insights into the evolution, function with substrate specificities and biotechnological use

Δ6 fatty acid desaturases (FADS6) have different substrate specificities that impact the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are involved in regulating multiple signalling pathways associated with various diseases. For decades, FADS6 with different substrate specificities have been characterized and the functions of these crucial enzymes have been investigated, while it remains enigmatic that the substrate specificities of FADS6 from various species have a huge difference. This review summarizes the substrate specificities of FADS6 in different species and reveals the underlying relationship. Further evaluation of biochemical properties has revealed that the FADS6 prefer linoleic acid that is more hydrophilic and stable. Domain-swapping and site-directed mutagenesis have been employed to delineate the regions and sites that affect the substrate specificities of FADS6. These analyses improve our understanding of the functions of FADS6 and offer information for the discovery of novel biological resources. KEY POINTS: • Outline of the excavation and identification of Δ6 fatty acid desaturases. • Overview of methods used to determine the pivotal resides of desaturases. • Application of substrate properties to generate specific fatty acids.

Nutrition and gastroenterological support in end of life care

Malnutrition and the broad spectrum of cancer cachexia frequently occur in patients with malignant disease of all tumour stages and impact on survival and quality of life of patients. Structured screening for the risk of malnutrition with validated tools and nutritional assessment are the prerequisite for adequate nutritional support in cancer patients. In patients receiving tumour directed therapy, the patients diet should meet the requirements to give optimal support, while later on comfort feeding is part of symptom focused palliation. The basis of nutritional support in a malnourished patient is nutritional counselling, and nutritional support can be offered within a step-up approach meeting the patient's needs. A combination of nutritional support with interventions targeting metabolic changes and physical exercise is suggested to treat cancer cachexia.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in wild and farmed whitemouth croaker and meagre from different Atlantic Ocean fishing areas: Concentrations and human health risk assessment

This work assessed the concentrations of 18 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in edible tissues of whitemouth croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) and meagre (Argyrosomus regius) captured in different Atlantic Ocean fishing areas and available to Brazilian and Portuguese consumers. Total PAH (∑PAHs) levels ranged from 1.32 to 5.41 μg/kg ww in wild-caught croaker and 2.66 (wild)-18.0 (farmed) μg/kg ww in meagre. Compounds with 2- and 3-rings represented 54-86% of ∑PAHs in the muscle tissues of wild-caught species (croaker and meagre) being naphthalene, fluorene, and phenanthrene the predominant compounds. ∑PAHs in farmed meagre were 4-7 times higher than in wild-caught meagre, with 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-ring compounds representing 15, 18, 44, 22, and 1% of ∑PAHs, respectively. Benzo(a)pyrene levels in farmed meagre varied between 0.06 and 0.34 μg/kg ww. Crude oil refining and combustion sources were identified as the major sources of PAHs in FAO 27, 34 and 41 Atlantic Ocean fishing areas. The biometric characteristics (length, weight, moisture, and fat content) and ∑PAHs allowed to discriminate between wild-caught and farmed meagre samples and between meagre and croaker. Assessment of carcinogenic risks suggested that a diet exclusive on farmed meagre may pose additional risks for the health of European top consumers fish.

Separation of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid by three-zone simulated moving bed chromatography

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are essential fatty acids for human body, which are widely used in the field of healthy food and medicine. Meanwhile, there are some differences in their physiological functions, such as "scavenger for blood vessel" of EPA and "brain protector" of DHA. In order to make full use of EPA and DHA, it is necessary to prepare their high-purity component. In this paper, EPA and DHA were separated and purified by three-zone simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography with C18 used as stationary phase and ethanol-water as mobile phase. For the single column experiment, a separation unit of SMB, the effects of the ratio of ethanol to water, pH value and temperature on the separation were investigated. The equilibrium dispersion (ED) model was used to obtain the adsorption parameters of EPA and DHA by inverse method and genetic algorithm, and the accuracy of the adsorption parameters was verified by fitting the overloaded elution curves under different conditions. Based on the acquired nonlinear adsorption isotherms the complete separation region was found according to triangle theory. The effects of sample concentration, flow ratios of adsorption zone and rectification zone, and column distribution mode of SMB on the separation were investigated. Under the optimized SMB conditions, the experimental result was that without regard to the other components, the chromatographic purity and recovery values of EPA and DHA exceeded 99% with the productivity of 4.15 g/L/h, and the solvent consumption of 1.11 L/g.

ZNF577 Methylation Levels in Leukocytes From Women With Breast Cancer Is Modulated by Adiposity, Menopausal State, and the Mediterranean Diet

The methylation levels of ZNF577 in breast tumors has been previously identified as a possible epigenetic mark of breast cancer associated with obesity. The aim of the current study was to investigate differences in methylation levels of ZNF577 depending on obesity, menopausal state and dietary pattern in blood leukocytes, a non-invasive sample. The methylation levels of ZNF577 of two CpG sites (CpGs) located in promoter and island previously identified as differentially methylated according to adiposity and menopausal state by 450 k array (cg10635122, cg03562414) were evaluated by pyrosequencing in DNA from the blood leukocytes of breast cancer patients [n = 90; n = 64 (71.1%) overweight/obesity and n = 26 (28.9%) normal-weight] and paired tumor tissue biopsies (n = 8 breast cancer patients with obesity; n = 3/5 premenopausal/postmenopausal women). Differences in methylation levels were evaluated at each CpGs individually and at the mean of the two evaluated CpGs. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was evaluated using the MEDAS-validated questionnaire, and the consumption of food groups of interest was also evaluated using the recommended intakes of the Sociedad Española de Nutricion Comunitaria. The methylation levels of ZNF577 were correlated between paired leukocytes and breast tumor biopsies (r = 0.62; p = 0.001). Moreover, higher methylation was found in leukocytes from patients with obesity (p = 0.002) and postmenopausal patients (p = 0.022) than patients with normal-weight or premenopausal, respectively. After adjusting for the body mass index and age, higher levels of ZNF577 methylation were also found in women with greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p = 0.017) or specific foods. Relevantly, the methylation levels of ZNF577 showed a good ability for fish consumption detection [area under the ROC curve (AUC) = 0.72; p = 0.016]. In conclusion, the association between methylation of ZNF577 and adiposity, menopausal state, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet can be detected in the blood leukocytes. The results guarantee the need of performing further studies in longer longitudinal cohorts in order to elucidate the role of ZNF577 methylation in the association between breast cancer, adiposity and dietary patterns.

Home parenteral nutrition with an omega-3-fatty-acid-enriched MCT/LCT lipid emulsion in patients with chronic intestinal failure (the HOME study): study protocol for a randomized, controlled, multicenter, international clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a life-preserving therapy for patients with chronic intestinal failure (CIF) indicated for patients who cannot achieve their nutritional requirements by enteral intake. Intravenously administered lipid emulsions (ILEs) are an essential component of HPN, providing energy and essential fatty acids, but can become a risk factor for intestinal-failure-associated liver disease (IFALD). In HPN patients, major effort is taken in the prevention of IFALD. Novel ILEs containing a proportion of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) could be of benefit, but the data on the use of n-3 PUFA in HPN patients are still limited.

METHODS/DESIGN

The HOME study is a prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind, multicenter, international clinical trial conducted in European hospitals that treat HPN patients. A total of 160 patients (80 per group) will be randomly assigned to receive the n-3 PUFA-enriched medium/long-chain triglyceride (MCT/LCT) ILE (Lipidem/Lipoplus® 200 mg/ml, B. Braun Melsungen AG) or the MCT/LCT ILE (Lipofundin® MCT/LCT/Medialipide® 20%, B. Braun Melsungen AG) for a projected period of 8 weeks. The primary endpoint is the combined change of liver function parameters (total bilirubin, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase) from baseline to final visit. Secondary objectives are the further evaluation of the safety and tolerability as well as the efficacy of the ILEs.

DISCUSSION

Currently, there are only very few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of ILEs in HPN, and there are very few data at all on the use of n-3 PUFAs. The working hypothesis is that n-3 PUFA-enriched ILE is safe and well-tolerated especially with regard to liver function in patients requiring HPN. The expected outcome is to provide reliable data to support this thesis thanks to a considerable number of CIF patients, consequently to broaden the present evidence on the use of ILEs in HPN.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03282955. Registered on 14 September 2017.

Dealing with saturated and unsaturated fatty acid metabolism for anticancer therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although saturated fatty acid (FA) (SFA) and monounsaturated FA (MUFA) are synthesized in cancer cells from acetyl-CoA, polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) are necessarily obtained from diet. Depending on concentrations and metabolism, these different FAs may support tumor proliferation but also exert growth inhibitory effects. The mutual interplay between them also requires to integrate the FA oxidation component that may be concomitant with FA synthesis is cancer cells.

RECENT FINDINGS

New molecular mechanisms driving FA synthesis, lipotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of eicosanoids in mouse and human cancers were recently elicited. To block or take advantage of the above represent attractive perspectives of treatments to fight cancer progression.

SUMMARY

The various enzymatic reactions leading to SFA synthesis represent as many targets to prevent tumor growth. Ironically excess SFAs are per-se toxic for cancer cells and the introduction of a double bound to form MUFA is actually limiting lipotoxicity in cancer cells. Blocking stearoyl-CoA desaturase therefore represents another attractive modality. By contrast, dietary PUFAs may exert direct cytotoxic effects by promoting apoptosis or by generating anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. Altogether, these data point out the intricate relationship between SFA, MUFA and PUFA at the heart of the metabolism of proliferating cancer cells.

The Mediterranean Diet, a Rich Source of Angiopreventive Compounds in Cancer

Diet-based chemoprevention of cancer has emerged as an interesting approach to evade the disease or even target its early phases, reducing its incidence or slowing down tumor progression. In its basis in the essential role of angiogenesis for tumor growth and metastasis, angioprevention proposes the use of inhibitors of angiogenesis in cancer prevention. The anti-angiogenic potential exhibited by many natural compounds contained in many Mediterranean diet constituents makes this dietary pattern especially interesting as a source of chemopreventive agents, defined within the angioprevention strategy. In this review, we focus on natural bioactive compounds derived from the main foods included in the Mediterranean diet that display anti-angiogenic activity, as well as their possible use as angiopreventive agents.

Krill oil extract suppresses the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells through activation of caspase 3/9

Background

Currently available treatments for colorectal cancer (CRC) associate with numerous side-effects that reduce patients' quality of life. The effective nutraceuticals with high anti-proliferative efficacy and low side-effects are desirable. Our previous study has reported that free fatty acids extract (FFAE) of krill oil induced apoptosis of CRC cells, possibly associated with changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The aims of this study were to compare the anti-proliferative efficacy of FFAE from krill oil on CRC cells with commonly used chemotherapeutic drug, Oxaliplatin, and to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-proliferative effects of krill oil with a focus on intrinsic mitochondrial death pathway.

Methods

Three human CRC cell lines, including DLD-1, HT-29 and LIM-2405, and one mouse CRC cell line, CT-26, were treated with FFAE of KO and the bioactive components of krill oil, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for 24 h and 48 h. Similarly, these cell lines were treated with Oxaliplatin, a commonly used drug for CRC treatment, for 24 h. The effects of FFAE of KO, EPA, DHA and Oxaliplatin on cell proliferation, mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined via WST-1, JC-10, and ROS assays respectively. The expression of caspase-3, caspase-9 and DNA damage following treatments of FFAE of KO was investigated via western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results

The FFAE of KO, EPA and DHA significantly inhibited cell proliferation and increased formation of ROS in all four cell lines (P < 0.01). A small dose of FFAE from KO ranged from 0.06 μL/100 μL to 0.12 μL/100 μL containing low concentrations of EPA (0.13-0.52 μM) and DHA (0.06-0.26 μM) achieved similar anti-proliferative effect as Oxaliplatin (P > 0.05). Treatments with the FFAE of KO, EPA and DHA (2:1 ratio) resulted in a significant increase in the mitochondrial membrane potential (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the expression of active forms of caspase-3 and caspase-9 was significantly increased following the treatment of FFAE of KO.

Conclusions

The present study has demonstrated that the anti-proliferative effects of krill oil on CRC cells are comparable with that of Oxaliplatin, and its anti-proliferative property is associated with the activation of caspase 3/9 in the CRC cells.

Grafting phenolics onto milk protein via conjugated polymerization for delivery of multiple functionalities: Synthesis and characterization

A synthetic scenario for functionalization of β-lactoglobulin (βLg) with polymeric units containing caffeic acid (βLg-polyCA) was developed; and all intermediates and final products were structurally confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and physico-chemically characterized using differential scanning calorimetry and circular dichroism. The antioxidant properties and emulsion stability of βLg, βLg-CA conjugate and βLg-polyCA based systems containing high percentage of fish oil (50%) were evaluated; and βLg-polyCA presented the highest antioxidant and free radical-scavenging activity based on DPPH, ABTS and HS scavenging assays (92.4, 87.92 and 67.35% respectively). Thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) test demonstrated that compared to native βLg, βLg-polyCA afford up 4-5 fold of inhibition of oxidative rancidity and displayed drastic secondary structure changes. Compared to native βLg based emulsions, βLg-polyCA had larger oil droplet sizes, stronger negative zeta potentials (-69.9 mv), narrower size distributions (PDI: 0.22) and less creaming index.

Therapeutic bullfrog oil-based nanoemulsion for oral application: Development, characterization and stability

The aim of this study was to develop, optimize, and characterize a stable therapeutic bullfrog oil based nanoemulsion for oral application using a rational experimental design approach. The optimized oral nanoemulsion contained 0.2 % sodium benzoate and 0.02 % propyl-paraben as preservatives; 0.1 % sucralose and 0.4 % acesulfam K as sweeteners and 0.1 % tutti-frutti as flavoring to mask the unpleasant organoleptic characteristics of bullfrog oil. The oral O/W-nanoemulsion showed the droplet size, PDI, zeta potential, and pH of 410 ± 8 nm, 0.20 ± 0.02, -38 ± 2.5 mV, and 6.43 ± 0.05, respectively. The optimized oral nanoemulsion showed a milky single-phase and optimal physical stability at 25 °C for 90 days. Indeed, higher oxidation induction time and lower formation of peroxides in the oral nanoemulsion were responsible for improving its stability. A therapeutic delivery system containing bullfrog oil for oral application was successfully developed and optimized with ideal thermo-oxidative stability.

Docosahexaenoic acid enhances methylmercury-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and cell death and eicosapentaenoic acid potentially attenuates these effects in mouse embryonic fibroblasts

Fish consumption has both the risk of methylmercury (MeHg) poisoning and the benefit of obtaining n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). However, the cellular interaction between MeHg and PUFAs remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of MeHg and n-3 PUFA exposure on mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). The results showed that EPA had a negligible effect on MeHg-induced cell death, whereas DHA promoted it. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations in cells exposed to DHA and MeHg were higher than in those exposed to EPA and MeHg. Treatment with DHA and MeHg markedly induced the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (CHOP and DNAJB9) and Nrf2 target gene (p62 and HMOX-1) mRNA levels. Unexpectedly, EPA supplementation in addition to DHA and MeHg attenuated DHA- and MeHg-induced cell death and suppressed ER stress and expression of Nrf2 target genes. Our results revealed a differential impact of DHA and EPA on MeHg-induced cell death, and combined treatment with DHA and EPA along with MeHg attenuated MeHg-induced toxicity.

Molecular therapeutic strategies targeting pancreatic cancer induced cachexia

Pancreatic cancer (PC) induced cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality and reduced quality of life. The pathophysiology of cachexia is complex and poorly understood. Many molecular signaling pathways are involved in PC and cachexia. Though our understanding of cancer cachexia is growing, therapeutic options remain limited. Thus, further discovery and investigation of the molecular signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of cachexia can be applied to development of targeted therapies. This review focuses on three main pathophysiologic processes implicated in the development and progression of cachexia in PC, as well as their utility in the discovery of novel targeted therapies.

Skeletal muscle wasting is the most prominent pathophysiologic anomaly in cachectic patients and driven by multiple regulatory pathways. Several known molecular pathways that mediate muscle wasting and cachexia include transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), myostatin and activin, IGF-1/PI3K/AKT, and JAK-STAT signaling. TGF-β antagonism in cachectic mice reduces skeletal muscle catabolism and weight loss, while improving overall survival. Myostatin/activin inhibition has a great therapeutic potential since it plays an essential role in skeletal muscle regulation. Overexpression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) leads to increased ubiquitination associated proteolysis, inhibition of myogenesis, and decreased muscle mass in PC induced cachexia. IGFBP-3 antagonism alleviates muscle cell wasting.

Another component of cachexia is profound systemic inflammation driven by pro-cachectic cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interferon gamma (INF-γ). IL-6 antagonism has been shown to reduce inflammation, reduce skeletal muscle loss, and ameliorate cachexia. While TNF-α inhibitors are clinically available, blocking TNF-α signaling is not effective in the treatment of cancer cachexia. Blocking the synthesis or action of acute phase reactants and cytokines is a feasible therapeutic strategy, but no anti-cytokine therapies are currently approved for use in PC. Metabolic alterations such as increased energy expenditure and gluconeogenesis, insulin resistance, fat tissue browning, excessive oxidative stress, and proteolysis with amino acid mobilization support tumor growth and the development of cachexia. Current innovative nutritional strategies for cachexia management include ketogenic diet, utilization of natural compounds such as silibinin, and supplementation with ω3-polyunsaturated fatty acids. Elevated ketone bodies exhibit an anticancer and anticachectic effect. Silibinin has been shown to inhibit growth of PC cells, induce metabolic alterations, and reduce myofiber degradation. Consumption of ω3-polyunsaturated fatty acids has been shown to significantly decrease resting energy expenditure and regulate metabolic dysfunction.

Supplementation with omega fatty acids increases the mRNA expression level of PLA2G4A in patients with gastric cancer

Background

Many lines of evidence suggest that arachidonic acid (AA)-based eicosanoid signaling pathway involved in development and progression of human cancers. Cytosolic phospholipase A2-α (cPLA2α) encoded by the PLA2G4A gene acts as an upstream regulator of eicosanoid signaling pathway through providing intracellular AA. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of omega fatty acids on mRNA expression level of PLA2G4A in patients with gastric cancer (GC) and to assess the possible relation between its expression and clinicopathological features.

Methods

According to treatment strategy, 34 chemotherapy-naive patients were randomly divided into two groups including, treatment group I (17 subjects received cisplatin alone) and treatment group II (17 individuals received cisplatin plus omega fatty acids) in a double-blind manner. The gastric biopsies specimens were taken from subjects before and after treatment and then mRNA expression level of PLA2G4A was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR procedure.

Results

The expression of the PLA2G4A gene at the protein level in the gastric biopsies samples was also determined by immunohistochemistry. Our findings revealed a significantly up-regulated expression of PLA2G4A mRNA in treatment group II after receiving cisplatin plus omega fatty acid compared to before treatment (P=0.003). In treatment group I, there was no significant difference in mRNA expression levels of PLA2G4A before and after treatment (P=0.790). We also found that mRNA expression of PLA2G4A in treatment group II was significantly associated with tumor size (P=0.007) and familial history (P=0.006).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that supplementation with omega fatty acids increases the mRNA expression level of PLA2G4A in patients with GC and may be crucial in guarding the cell from transformation and carcinogenesis.

Immune regulation and anti-cancer activity by lipid inflammatory mediators

Rodent and clinical studies have documented that myeloid cell infiltration of tumors is associated with poor outcomes, neutrophilia and lymphocytopenia. This contrasts with increased lymphocyte infiltration of tumors, which is correlated with improved outcomes. Lifestyle parameters, such as obesity and diets with high levels of saturated fat and/or omega (ω)-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), can influence these inflammatory parameters, including an increase in extramedullary myelopoiesis (EMM). While tumor secretion of growth factors (GFs) and chemokines regulate tumor-immune-cell crosstalk, lifestyle choices also contribute to inflammation, abnormal pathology and leukocyte infiltration of tumors. A relationship between obesity and high-fat diets (notably saturated fats in Western diets) and inflammation, tumor incidence, metastasis and poor outcomes is generally accepted. However, the mechanisms of dietary promotion of an inflammatory microenvironment and targeted drugs to inhibit the clinical sequelae are poorly understood. Thus, modifications of obesity and dietary fat may provide preventative or therapeutic approaches to control tumor-associated inflammation and disease progression. Currently, the majority of basic and clinical research does not differentiate between obesity and fatty acid consumption as mediators of inflammatory and neoplastic processes. In this review, we discuss the relationships between dietary PUFAs, inflammation and neoplasia and experimental strategies to improve our understanding of these relationships. We conclude that dietary composition, notably the ratio of ω-3 vs ω-6 PUFA regulates tumor growth and the frequency and sites of metastasis that together, impact overall survival (OS) in mice.

Enzymatic catalysis for sustainable production of high omega-3 triglyceride oil using imidazolium-based ionic liquids

Two different fish oil preparations, namely triglycerides and ethyl esters containing, respectively, 30.02% and 74.38% of omega-3 fatty acids, were employed as the substrates for transesterification. Catalyzed by immobilized lipase using imidazolium-based ionic liquid systems, the total content of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the resulting triglyceride reached 63.60% when 4% hydrophobic ionic liquid was used, which was 11.74% higher than that of the triglyceride produced in a solvent-free reaction system. The activation energy of the product (triglyceride-type fish oil) was 173.64 KJ mol-1, which was not significantly different from that of the commercial ethyl ester-type fish oil, so were the other thermal oxidative kinetic parameters. The kinetic parameters depicting the thermal and oxidative stability of the fish oil product provide the basis for industrial processing, storage, and applications.

Marine ω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid and Fish Intake after Colon Cancer Diagnosis and Survival: CALGB 89803 (Alliance)

Background: Marine ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), primarily found in dark fish, may prevent colorectal cancer progression, in part through inhibition of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). However, data in humans are limited.Methods: We examined marine ω-3 PUFAs and fish intake and survival among 1,011 colon cancer patients enrolled in Cancer and Leukemia Group B 89803 between 1999 and 2001 and followed through 2009. Diet was assessed during and 6 months after chemotherapy. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for disease-free (DFS), recurrence-free (RFS), and overall survival (OS).Results: We observed 343 recurrences and 305 deaths (median follow-up: 7 years). Patients in the highest vs. lowest quartile of marine ω-3 PUFA intake had an HR for DFS of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.54-0.97; P_trend = 0.03). Individuals who consumed dark fish ≥1/week versus never had longer DFS (HR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.48-0.87; P-value = 0.007), RFS (HR 0.61; 95% CI, 0.46-0.86; P_trend = 0.007), and OS (HR 0.68; 95% CI, 0.48-0.96; P_trend = 0.04). In a subset of 510 patients, the association between marine ω-3 PUFA intake and DFS appeared stronger in patients with high PTGS2 expression (HR 0.32; 95% CI, 0.11-0.95; P_trend = 0.01) compared with patients with absent/low PTGS2 expression (HR 0.78; 95% CI, 0.48-1.27; P_trend = 0.35; P_interaction = 0.19).Conclusions: Patients with high intake of marine ω-3 PUFAs and dark fish after colon cancer diagnosis may have longer DFS.Impact: Randomized controlled trials examining dark fish and/or marine ω-3 PUFA supplements and colon cancer recurrence/survival are needed. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(4); 438-45. ©2018 AACR.

Effects of Omegaven®, EPA, DHA and oxaliplatin on oesophageal adenocarcinoma cell lines growth, cytokine and cell signal biomarkers expression

Background

There is limited evidence assessing the effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on oesophageal adenocarcinoma, both in vitro and in vivo. We evaluated the effects of the omega-3 PUFA and oxaliplatin on OE33 and OE19 cells.

Method

The two oesophageal cells were treated with Omegaven® (fish oil emulsion), EPA, DHA and oxaliplatin and incubated for up to 144 h.

Results

The following inhibitory effects were observed on OE33 cells: EPA reduced cell growth by 39% (p = 0.001), DHA by 59% (p < 0.000) and Oxaliplatin by 77% (p < 0.000). For OE19 cells, the EPA reduced growth by 1% (p = 0.992), DHA by 26% (p = 0.019) and oxaliplatin by 76% (p < 0.000). For both cells, Omegaven® resulted in reduced cell growth at intermediate concentrations (20-40 μM) and increased cell growth at low (10 μM) and high (50 μM) concentrations. DHA, Omegaven® and oxaliplatin were associated with significant downregulation of VEGF and p53 protein, and upregulation of p21 protein. DHA, Omegaven® and Oxaliplatin also led to significant downregulation of the total ERK1/2 and Akt proteins.

Conclusion

DHA, Omegaven® and oxaliplatin were associated with downregulation of p53 and VEGF in both cells. Of the PUFAs studied, DHA alone or in combination (Omegaven®) had greater in vitro anti-cancer effects than EPA alone.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12944-018-0664-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

An analysis of dietary fiber and fecal fiber components including pH in rural Africans with colorectal cancer

Background/Aims

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is now a major public health problem with heavy morbidity and mortality in rural Africans despite the lingering dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs consumption. Studies have shown that increased intake of dietary fiber which contribute to low fecal pH and also influences the activity of intestinal microbiota, is associated with a lowered risk for CRC. However, whether or not the apparent high dietary fiber consumption by Africans do not longer protects against CRC risk is unknown. This study evaluated dietary fiber intake, fecal fiber components and pH levels in CRC patients.

Methods

Thirty-five subjects (CRC=21, control=14), mean age 45 years were recruited for the study. A truncated food frequency questionnaire and modified Goering and Van Soest procedures were used.

Results

We found that all subjects consumed variety of dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs. There is slight preponderance in consumption of dietary fiber by the control group than the CRC patients. We also found a significant difference in the mean fecal neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin contents from the CRC patients compared to the controls (P<0.05). The CRC patients had significantly more fecal pH level than the matched apparently healthy controls (P=0.017).

Conclusions

The identified differences in the fecal fiber components and stool pH levels between the 2 groups may relate to CRC incidence and mortality in rural Africans. There is crucial need for more hypothesis-driven research with adequate funding on the cumulative preventive role of dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs against colorectal cancer in rural Africans “today.”

The Roles of Adjuvant Supplements in Colorectal Cancer Patients on Chemotherapy - Reaping Benefits from Metabolic Crosstalk

The prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is on a steady rise over the years, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting CRC as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. While treatment modalities may differ in accordance to the staging and severity of the disease itself, chemotherapy is almost unavoidable in most cases. Though effective in its mode of action, chemotherapy is commonly associated with undesirable side effects that negatively affects the patient in terms of quality of life, and in some cases may actually interfere with their treatment regimens, thus escalating to poor prognosis. Gastrointestinal disturbances is a major side effect of chemotherapy and in CRC, gastrointestinal disturbances may be further aggravated and grave in nature mainly due to the affected site, being the gastrointestinal tract. The use of complementary therapies as adjuncts to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy in CRC patients is gaining prominence with dietary supplements being the most commonly employed adjunct. Some of the frequently used dietary supplements for CRC patients are probiotics, omega-3 fatty acid and glutamine. The successful crosstalk between these dietary supplements with important metabolic pathways is crucial in the alleviation of chemotherapy side effects.

The type of dietary fat and dietary energy restriction affects the activity of the desaturases in the liver microsomes

The aim of present study was to investigate the effect of different dietary oils and the dietary energy restriction on the activity of enzymes participating in the process of arachidonic acid synthesis and on fatty acid profile in serum. It was also evaluated how diet modification affects the weight of animals and weight of the specific organs: liver, kidney and spleen. Wistar male rats were divided into 6 groups according to the diet fed (control, sunflower oil, olive oil, rapeseed oil, fish oil and a group of dietary energy restriction - DER group). The enzyme activities were established indirectly in liver microsomes. To this aim the method of high performance liquid chromatography with UV/VIS detection was used. In addition, the indices of ∆⁶-desaturase (D6D) and ∆⁵-desaturase (D5D) were determined. Significant differences in the concentrations of fatty acids and enzyme activity were observed. The results concerning desaturases show the negative correlation between n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids intake and enzymes activity. The highest D6D activity was observed in microsomes obtained from sunflower oil fed rats and the lowest D6D activity was in the DER group. D5D index did not differ much depending on the diet. Among groups supplemented with oils the higher mean values of the weight of liver were observed in the group supplemented with rapeseed oil. Consumption of diets supplemented with edible oils of different fatty acid profile influence both serum fatty acid composition and the activity of ∆⁶- and Δ⁵-desaturase.

Remodelling of primary human CD4+ T cell plasma membrane order by n-3 PUFA

Cell membrane fatty acids influence fundamental properties of the plasma membrane, including membrane fluidity, protein functionality, and lipid raft signalling. Evidence suggests that dietary n-3 PUFA may target the plasma membrane of immune cells by altering plasma membrane lipid dynamics, thereby regulating the attenuation of immune cell activation and suppression of inflammation. As lipid-based immunotherapy might be a promising new clinical strategy for the treatment of inflammatory disorders, we conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to examine the effects of n-3 PUFA on CD4+ T cell membrane order, mitochondrial bioenergetics and lymphoproliferation. n-3 PUFA were incorporated into human primary CD4+ T cells phospholipids in vitro in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in a reduction in whole cell membrane order, oxidative phosphorylation and proliferation. At higher doses, n-3 PUFA induced unique phase separation in T cell-derived giant plasma membrane vesicles. Similarly, in a short-term human pilot study, supplementation of fish oil (4 g n-3 PUFA/d) for 6 weeks in healthy subjects significantly elevated EPA (20 : 5n-3) levels in CD4+ T cell membrane phospholipids, and reduced membrane lipid order. These results demonstrate that the dynamic reshaping of human CD4+ T cell plasma membrane organisation by n-3 PUFA may modulate down-stream clonal expansion.

Protective Effects of ω-3 PUFA in Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity: A Critical Review

It has been demonstrated that ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA) may exert a beneficial role as adjuvants in the prevention and treatment of many disorders, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Particularly, several in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies have shown the antitumor activity of ω-3 PUFA in different kinds of cancers, and several human studies have shown that ω-3 PUFA are able to decrease the risk of a series of cardiovascular diseases. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain their pleiotropic beneficial effects. ω-3 PUFA have also been shown to prevent harmful side-effects (including cardiotoxicity and heart failure) induced by conventional and innovative anti-cancer drugs in both animals and patients. The available literature regarding the possible protective effects of ω-3 PUFA against anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, as well as the mechanisms involved, will be critically discussed herein. The study will analyze the critical role of different levels of ω-3 PUFA intake in determining the results of the combinatory studies with anthracyclines. Suggestions for future research will also be considered.

Antigastric Cancer Bioactive Aurantiochytrium Oil Rich in Docosahexaenoic Acid: From Media Optimization to Cancer Cells Cytotoxicity Assessment

Dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may have a role in contributing to the prevention or inhibition of some malignancies. DHA, the most important polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in fish and thraustochytrid oils, is known for its anticancer activity. However, antigastric cancer activity of thraustochytrid microbial oil is still unclear. In this investigation, 45 thraustochytrid strains were screened for the production of antigastric cancer oil. Cytotoxicity of 12 thraustochytrid oils was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol- 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) on gastric cancer AGS cells. The most cytotoxic effect was related to the oil extracted from the qe-4 strain with 45% cell cytotoxicity. Therefore, the Taguchi methodology was used to optimize this bioactive microbial oil. The amounts of biomass, oil, and DHA were increased to 10.32 g/L, 3.86 g/L, and 1390 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, the use of glycerol in low saline medium enhanced the yield of DHA. Then, the cytotoxicity of thraustochytrids oil rich in DHA or C16 (0.5 to 10 mg/mL), was assessed on AGS cells. Only the oil that was rich in DHA showed an inhibitory effect (IC₅₀ ) on AGS cells (same as the standard DHA at 1.26 mg/mL). These new findings revealed that thraustochytrid derived oil rich in DHA, has an inhibitory effect on gastric cancer cells. Phylogenetic analysis showed that qe-4 is related to the genus Aurantiochytrium (AN: KR091914) as a potential candidate for the production of bioactive oil. In conclusion, these results certainly support further investigations on this bioactive microbial oil as an additive for the fortification of food and dairy products.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Thraustochytrid microbial oil rich in DHA, showed antigastric cancer activity comparable to that of pure DHA; indicating that this microbial bioactive omega-3 oil rich in the very important PUFA (DHA), can be applied as an additive for the fortification of food and dairy products. Also, Aurantiochytrium sp. KR091914, as a GRAS microorganism, is a good producer of this bioactive oil.

Docosahexaenoic acid and disulfiram act in concert to kill cancer cells: a mutual enhancement of their anticancer actions

We previously reported a synergistic anticancer action of clioquinol and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in human cancer cells. However, clioquinol has been banned from the clinic due to its neurotoxicity. This study identified disulfiram (DSF) as a substitute compound to clioquinol, acting in concert with DHA to more effectively kill cancer cells and suppress tumor growth. Treatment with DSF and DHA induced greater apoptotic cell death and suppression of tumor growth in vitro and in vivo, as compared to DSF and DHA used alone. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that DSF enhances DHA-induced cellular oxidative stress as evidenced by up-regulation of Nrf2-mediated heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) gene transcription. On the other hand, DHA was found to enhance DSF-induced suppression of mammosphere formation and stem cell frequency in a selected cancer model system, indicating that alterations to cancer cell stemness are involved in the combinatory anticancer action of DSF and DHA. Thus, DHA and DSF, both clinically approved drugs, act in concert to more effectively kill cancer cells. This combinatory action involves an enhancement of cellular oxidative stress and suppression of cancer cell stemness.

Ω-3 index as a prognosis tool in cardiovascular disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In 2004, the 'Ω-3 index' was described as the sum of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20 : 5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22 : 6 n-3) in red blood cells (RBCs) as an index of coronary heart disease mortality. This review outlines new evidence to support the Ω-3 index as a tool to inform disease prognosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have reported differential metabolism of EPA and DHA. High-dose supplementation with EPA and DHA led to increased levels of RBC DHA that were associated with decreased liver fat. EPA and DHA in RBCs were associated with reduced mortality in a prospective study of patients with cardiac disease; the strongest association was with EPA. A diet containing 9.5-g α-linolenic acid lead to an increase in EPA but not DHA status in middle-aged women.

SUMMARY

Dietary intake or supplementation studies with n-3 fatty acids should include measurement of n-3 status in a standardized way. The Ω-3 index, reflecting EPA and DHA status throughout the body, is convenient and may be appropriate in some cases, but as EPA and DHA assimilate differently in membranes, and have different potency, measurement of individual fatty acid composition in RBCs may be more informative.

Short-term treatment with eicosapentaenoic acid improves inflammation and affects colonic differentiation markers and microbiota in patients with ulcerative colitis

Patients with long-standing ulcerative colitis (UC) have an increased colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. In this pilot study we evaluated the effect of Eicosapentaenoic acid as free fatty acid (EPA-FFA) supplementation on mucosal disease activity, colonic differentiation markers and microbiota composition in UC patients. Twenty long-standing UC patients in stable clinical remission and with fecal calprotectin (FC) > 150 µg/g were enrolled (T0) and supplemented with EPA-FFA 2 g/daily for 90 days (T3). Endoscopic and histologic disease activities were measured by Mayo and Geboes scores, respectively. HES1, KLF4, STAT3, IL-10 and SOCS3 levels were determined using western blotting and qRT-PCR, while phospho-STAT3 levels were assessed by western blotting. Goblet cells were stained by Alcian blue. Microbiota analyses were performed on both fecal and colonic samples. Nineteen patients completed the study; seventeen (89.5%) were compliant. EPA-FFA treatment reduced FC levels at T3. Patients with FC > 150 µg/g at T3 (n = 2) were assumed as non-responders. EPA-FFA improved endoscopic and histological inflammation and induced IL-10, SOCS3, HES1 and KLF4 in compliant and responder patients. Importantly, long-term UC-driven microbiota composition was partially redressed by EPA-FFA. In conclusion, EPA-FFA supplementation reduced mucosal inflammation, promoted goblet cells differentiation and modulated intestinal microbiota composition in long-standing UC patients.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) promotes immunogenic apoptosis in human multiple myeloma cells, induces autophagy and inhibits STAT3 in both tumor and dendritic cells

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in fish oil, is a multi-target agent and exerts anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities alone or in combination with chemotherapies. Combinatorial anticancer therapies, which induce immunogenic apoptosis, autophagy and STAT3 inhibition have been proposed for long-term therapeutic success. Here, we found that DHA promoted immunogenic apoptosis in multiple myeloma (MM) cells, with no toxicity on PBMCs and DCs. Immunogenic apoptosis was shown by the emission of specific DAMPs (CRT, HSP90, HMGB1) by apoptotic MM cells and the activation of their pro-apoptotic autophagy. Moreover, immunogenic apoptosis was directly shown by the activation of DCs by DHA-induced apoptotic MM cells. Furthermore, we provided the first evidence that DHA activated autophagy in PBMCs and DCs, thus potentially acting as immune stimulator and enhancing processing and presentation of tumor antigens by DCs. Finally, we found that DHA inhibited STAT3 in MM cells. STAT3 pathway, essential for MM survival, contributed to cancer cell apoptosis by DHA. We also found that DHA inhibited STAT3 in blood immune cells and counteracted STAT3 activation by tumor cell-released factors in PBMCs and DCs, suggesting the potential enhancement of the anti-tumor function of multiple immune cells and, in particular, that of DCs.

Formyl peptide receptor 1 suppresses gastric cancer angiogenesis and growth by exploiting inflammation resolution pathways

Chronic inflammation can result from inadequate engagement of resolution mechanisms, mainly accomplished by specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) arising from the metabolic activity of lipoxygenases (ALOX5/15) on ω-6 or ω-3 essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). We previously demonstrated that formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1) suppresses gastric cancer (GC) by inhibiting its inflammatory/angiogenic potential. In this study, we asked whether FPR1 exploits inflammation resolution pathways to suppress GC angiogenesis and growth. Here, we demonstrate that genetic or pharmacologic modulation of FPR1 in GC cells regulated ALOX5/15 expression and production of the SPMs Resolvin D1 (RvD1) and Lipoxin B4 (LXB4). SPM treatment of GC cells abated their angiogenic potential. Genetic deletion of ALOX15 or of the RvD1 receptor GPR32 increased the angiogenic and tumorigenic activity of GC cells thereby mimicking FPR1 loss. Deletion/inhibition of ALOX5/15 or GPR32 blocked FPR1-mediated anti-angiogenic activities, indicating that ALOX5/15 and GPR32 are required for FPR1's pro-resolving action. An ω-3- or ω-6-enriched diet enforced SPM endogenous production in mice and inhibited growth of shFPR1 GC xenografts by suppressing their angiogenic activity. These data implicate that FPR1 and/or pro-resolving pathway components might be used as risk/prognostic markers for GC; ω-6/3-enriched diets, and targeting FPR1 or SPM machinery may be exploited for GC management.