A systemic review of the roles of n-3 fatty acids in health and disease

Interaction between 3-SNP genetic risk score and dietary fats intake on inflammatory markers among overweight and obese women

Objectives

This study, for the first time, sought to investigate whether the interaction between the GRS consists of three SNPs (CAV-1, CRY-1, MC4R) and fat intake is associated with inflammatory markers among Iranian overweight and obese women.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 246 overweight and obese women, aged 18-48 years. Three SNPs, including CAV-1 rs3807992, CRY-1 rs2287161, and MC4R rs17782313, were genotyped using PCR-RFLP to calculate the genetic risk score (GRS) for each participant. Dietary fat intake was measured using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and Galectin-3 (Gal-3) were assessed as the primary outcomes of the study.

Results

After controlling for confounding variables, a significant interaction between high total fat intake and high GRS, compared to the reference group, was found for TGF-β level (P-value: 0.028). A significant positive interaction between high GRS and high intakes of SFA intake (P-value: 0.013). A significant interaction between high GRS and high intakes of MUFA, compared to the reference group, was found for ghrelin level (P-value: 0.040) and MCP-1 level (P-value: 0.075). There was a significant interaction between high GRS and intakes of DHA, compared to the reference group, for Gal-3 level (P-value: 0.013) MCP-1 level (P-value: 0.020).

Conclusions

Consuming different types of fats can influence the interaction between GRS and inflammatory markers, suggesting further research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

Supplementary information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01542-z.

Pre- and post-operative administration of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in cardiac surgery patients. A narrative review

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two biologically active omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), acquired by nutrition and incorporated in cell membranes' phospholipids, thus playing a crucial role in human health and homeostasis. Due to their potential cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arrhythmic actions, n-3 PUFA emerge as an interesting therapeutic option for cardiac surgery (CS) patients. The aim of this review was to assess the effects of perioperative administration of n-3 PUFA in CS patients. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in order to identify prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) reporting on the perioperative effects of n-3 PUFA among adult patients undergoing CS. A total of 31 articles, published between 1995 and 2022, including 10 543 patients, met the inclusion criteria. There seems to be a beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation for arrhythmias such as in Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation (POAF), reduction of Intensive Care Unit Length of Stay (ICULOS) & Hospital Length of Stay (HLOS), reduction in postoperative ventilation time, in inotropic demand, in postoperative fatigue, as well as in overall morbidity and mortality. Moreover, n-3 PUFA increase antioxidant potential, attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation with subsequent significant reduction in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, thus promoting early metabolic recovery of the heart after elective CS leading to improved myocardial protection. They represent a readily available and cost-effective strategy that could improve the outcome of patients undergoing CS, by reducing the risks of serious cardiovascular adverse events (AE), both peri- and post-operatively.

Roles and therapeutic opportunities of ω-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in lung cancer

Over the past decades, researchers have continuously investigated the potential functions of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) in cancers, including lung cancer. The ω-3 LCPUFAs, primarily consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, were found to modify inflammatory tumor microenvironment, induce cancer cell apoptosis and autophagy, and suppress tumor development when administered alone or with other therapeutical strategies. Although the precise anti-tumor mechanism has not been elucidated yet, ω-3 LCPUFAs are often used in the nutritional treatment of patients with cancer due to their ability to significantly improve patient's nutritional status, increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to treatments, and alleviate cancer-related complications. Here we present the key roles of ω-3 LCPUFAs as dietary supplementations in lung cancer, comprehensively review the recent progress on the underlying mechanisms of cancer cell regulation by ω-3 LCPUFAs, and introduce the application of ω-3 LCPUFAs in the clinical management of lung cancer and its malignant complications.

Effects of Dietary Gallic Acid on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Antioxidant Capacity, and Muscle Fiber Type-Related Gene Expression in Broiler Chickens Challenged with Lipopolysaccharide

In this study, broilers were selected as the research object to investigate the effects and mechanisms of dietary gallic acid (GA) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and muscle fiber-related gene expression. A total of 750 one-day-old healthy 817 male crossbred broiler chickens were divided into five treatment groups, with six replicates per group. Birds in the control (CON) group and LPS-challenged treatment (LPS) group were fed a basal diet, and birds in the other three treatment groups received the basal diet with 150, 300, or 450 mg/kg added GA (GA150, GA300, GA450). On days 14, 17, and 20, chickens in the LPS, GA150, GA300, and GA450 groups received intramuscular injections of LPS, while chickens in the CON group received saline. The results showed that the addition of GA to the diet could effectively increase the average daily gain (ADG) of broilers from 1 to 50 days of age, and had a trend (p = 0.078) of increasing the average daily feed intake (ADFI). Adding 450 mg/kg GA to the diet significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the drip loss and pH value of pectoral muscles 45 min after slaughter, and significantly increased (p < 0.05) the lightness value of pectoral muscles 45 min post-slaughter. With an increase in GA level, the content of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) in pectoral muscles decreased linearly (p < 0.05), and the concentration of C22:6n-3 increased linearly (p < 0.05). GA effectively improved (p < 0.05) the antioxidant capacity of muscles and significantly increased (p < 0.05) the activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in pectoral muscles after LPS stimulation, exhibiting linear and quadratic changes (p < 0.05). It also significantly increased (p < 0.05) the activity of hydrogen peroxide and decreased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), while it linearly decreased (p < 0.05) the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). In addition, the dietary supplementation of GA significantly increased (p < 0.05) the expression levels of myosin heavy chain (MyHC) I and MyHC IIa in pectoral muscles and significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the expression level of MyHC IIx. In summary, the dietary addition of GA can alleviate the effect of the stress response on the growth performance of broiler chickens and improve antioxidant capacity and meat quality. The appropriate amount of dietary GA at each stage was 300 mg/kg.

Dietary patterns - A scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023

Background

A dietary pattern can be defined as the quantities, proportions, variety, or combination of foods and drinks typically consumed. The dietary pattern approach aims to place emphasis on the total diet as a long-term health determinant, instead of focussing on separate foods and nutrients, which may interact or confound each other.

Aim

This scoping review describes the totality of evidence for the role of dietary patterns for health-related outcomes as a basis for setting and updating food-based dietary guidelines in the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023 (NNR2023).

Methods

We used evidence from 10 qualified systematic reviews identified by the NNR2023 project. No additional literature search was conducted.

Results

Strong or moderate evidence linked dietary patterns high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, low-fat dairy and legumes, and low in red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, sugary foods- and refined grains with beneficial health outcomes, such as reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, obesity, cancer, bone health, and premature death. We also found limited evidence suggesting a relationship with the described dietary patterns in childhood and decreased risk of obesity and hypertension later in life. Most studies have been conducted among adult populations, and thus, there is a need for studies in certain subgroups, such as children and adolescents as well as the elderly.

In Vivo Absorption and Lymphatic Bioavailability of Docosahexaenoic Acid from Microalgal Oil According to Its Physical and Chemical Form of Vectorization

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential fatty acid (FA) with proven pro-health effects, but improving its bioavailability is becoming a public health issue. The bioavailability of DHA from microalgal (A) oil has been comprehensively assessed, particularly in terms of the molecular structuring capabilities offered by A-oil. Here, we explored the impact of five DHA-rich formulas differing in terms of (i) molecular structure, i.e., ethyl ester (EE), monoglyceride (MG), or triglyceride (TG), and (ii) supramolecular form, i.e., emulsified TG or TG + phospholipids (PL blend) on the lymphatic kinetics of DHA absorption and the lipid characteristics of the resulting lipoproteins. We demonstrated in rats that the conventional A-DHA TG structure afforded more effective DHA absorption than the EE structure (+23%). Furthermore, the A-DHA MG and A-DHA emulsions were the better DHA vectors (AUC: 89% and +42%, respectively) due to improved lipolysis. The A-DHA MG and A-DHA emulsion presented the richest DHA content in TG (+40%) and PL (+50%) of lymphatic chylomicrons, which could affect the metabolic fate of DHA. We concluded that structuring A-DHA in TG or EE form would better serve for tissue and hepatic metabolism whereas A-DHA in MG and emulsion form could better target nerve tissues.

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (Sanyeqing) root extracts evoke S phase arrest while inhibiting the migration and invasion of human pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells

BACKGROUND

Ethyl acetate extracts from Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (Sanyeqing) (EFT), a member of the Vitaceae plant family, have been shown to exhibit efficacy against a variety of cancers. In this light, our current study seeks to examine the mechanism of efficacy between EFT extracts and human pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells.

METHODS

The chemical components of EFT were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The cytotoxicity of EFT on PANC-1 cells was measured using an MTT assay. In order to investigate EFT induction of cell cycle arrest, changes in cell-cycle distribution were monitored by flow cytometry. Wound healing and transwell assays were employed to investigate whether migration and invasion of PANC-1 cells were inhibited by EFT. Relative protein expression was detected using Western blot.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis of the chemical composition of EFT revealed that the majority of constituents were organic acids and their corresponding esters. EFT exhibits measurable cytotoxicity and inhibition of PANC-1 invasion. Growth inhibition was primarily attributed to downregulation of CDK2 which induces cell cycle arrest in the S-phase. Inhibition of metastasis is achieved through downregulation of mesenchymal-associated genes/activators, including ZEB1, N-cadherin, Vimentin, and Fibronectin. Meanwhile, the expression of E-cadherin was significantly increased by EFT treatment. Furthermore, downregulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were observed.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of PANC-1 with EFT demonstrated measurable cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, EFT evoked S phase arrest while inhibiting the migration and invasion of PANC-1 cells. Additionally, EFT inhibited the epithelial to mesenchymal transition and MMPs expression in PANC-1 cells. This study serves to confirm the strong therapeutic potential of EFT while identifying the mechanisms of action.

A good egg: An evaluation of a social and behavior change communication campaign to increase egg consumption among children in Rwanda

Childhood malnutrition, which is endemic in rural areas of low-income countries, leads to a host of deleterious outcomes such as poor cognitive development, low educational attainment and lower lifetime wages. Promoting the consumption of eggs among young children has emerged as a promising strategy to combat childhood malnutrition, though pathways to scale remain unclear. In this paper, we evaluate the impact of a social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) campaign combined with a program in which rural families purchased chickens on credit (poultry + SBCC; n = 769) relative to an arm in which families only received the poultry intervention (poultry only; n = 750), using a difference-in-difference estimation strategy with propensity score matching. The SBCC consisted of radio messages, in-person training, text message reminders and posters. We found a relatively modest but statistically significant increase in the number of times per week respondents in the poultry + SBCC arm reported feeding eggs to children of 0.28 (p = 0.02) compared to the poultry-only arm. The increase in egg feeding, however, was more pronounced for boys (0.42, p < 0.01) than for girls (0.14, p = 0.26). In addition, the campaign increased egg feeding more for those who were already feeding eggs to children (0.63, p < 0.01) than those who were not engaging in those practices at baseline (0.26, p < 0.01). However, the difference in these differences was not statistically significant. Future campaigns should ensure higher saturation of messaging and include specific messaging around the importance of feeding girls as well as boys. Campaigns seeking to scale up egg feeding quickly could potentially target the easier-to-reach segment of caregivers who already occasionally feed eggs to children though these might not be the neediest group.

Effect of Germination on Fatty Acid Composition in Cereal Grains

Sprouted grains are gaining popularity as functional food ingredients. This study aimed to evaluate the lipid and fatty acid composition of eight sprouted grains (millet, amaranth, quinoa, wheat, rye, barley, buckwheat, and oat). The method used was germination for up to 72 h at temperatures ranging from 19-23 °C. In general, the lipid content increased in the various grains sprouted, providing a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The % oil yield ranged from 1.17 ± 0.02% in sprouted rye to 5.71 ± 0.26% in sprouted amaranth. Germinated oat showed the greatest increase in fat content, 54.3%, compared to the control. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were more prevalent in whole grains (46.9-75.6%) than saturated fatty acids (10.1-25.9%) and increased with sprouting. The primary fatty acids detected in the grains, in order of abundance, were linoleic, oleic, palmitic, linolenic, and stearic acids. Millet sprouts contained the lowest total saturated fatty acids and the highest polyunsaturated fatty acids. Amaranth had the highest amount of saturated fatty acids, while buckwheat contained the lowest quantity of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The lowest omega-6/omega-3 ratio was 7 to 1 in sprouted rye and 8 to 1 in sprouted barley.

Bioactive oxylipins in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with and without hypertriglyceridemia

Objective

Dyslipidemia, in particular elevated triglycerides (TGs) contribute to increased cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this pilot study we aimed to assess how increased TGs affect hepatic fat as well as polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism and oxylipin formation in T2DM patients.

Methods

40 patients with T2DM were characterized analyzing routine lipid blood parameters, as well as medical history and clinical characteristics. Patients were divided into a hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) group (TG ≥ 1.7mmol/l) and a normal TG group with TGs within the reference range (TG < 1.7mmol/l). Profiles of PUFAs and their oxylipins in plasma were measured by gas chromatography and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Transient elastography (TE) was used to assess hepatic fat content measured as controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) (in dB/m) and the degree of liver fibrosis measured as stiffness (in kPa).

Results

Mean value of hepatic fat content measured as CAP as well as body mass index (BMI) were significantly higher in patients with high TGs as compared to those with normal TGs, and correlation analysis showed higher concentrations of TGs with increasing CAP and BMI scores in patients with T2DM. There were profound differences in plasma oxylipin levels between these two groups. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) and lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolites were generally more abundant in the HTG group, especially those derived from arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), γ-linolenic acid (γ-LA), and α-linolenic acid (α-LA), and a strong correlation between TG levels and plasma metabolites from different pathways was observed.

Conclusions

In adult patients with T2DM, elevated TGs were associated with increased liver fat and BMI. Furthermore, these patients also had significantly higher plasma levels of CYP- and LOX- oxylipins, which could be a novel indicator of increased inflammatory pathway activity, as well as a novel target to dampen this activity.

Biofortification of cow milk through dietary supplementation with sunflower oil: fatty acid profile, atherogenicity, and thrombogenic index

The present study aimed to assess the effects of replacing the starchy ingredients of concentrate by increasing the levels of sunflower oil on the production, composition, fatty acid profile, and evaluate the atherogenicity and thrombogenic index of Jersey cow's milk. Eight Jersey cows were arranged in a double Latin square and distributed in treatments consisting of supplementation with increasing levels of sunflower oil replacing the corn grain and wheat bran of concentrate, including the following: T0 (control diet), without sunflower oil and with 38 g ether extract (EE)/kg dry matter (DM); T1 = 65 g EE/kg DM; T2 = 86 g EE/kg DM; and T3 = 110 g EE/kg DM. The daily milk production was measured, and the corrected milk production was calculated. Milk samples were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy to determine fat, protein, lactose, and total solids, whereas the lipid profile was assessed by gas chromatography. Milk production, energy-corrected milk production, fat content, daily fat production, lactose, and total solids were not affected by the treatments. Protein, lactose, and total solids concentrations decreased. Short-, medium-, and odd-chain fatty acids decreased with an increase in sunflower oil levels. Conversely, linear increases in long-chain, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations were observed. There were significant increases in stearic and elaidic acids and conjugated linoleic acid isomers, especially in vaccenic and rumenic acids. There was a positive effect on the milk atherogenicity, thrombogenicity, and nutraceutical indices. Dietary supplementation with sunflower oil changes the milk FA profile, decreases the atherogenicity and the thrombogenicity indices, and improve the nutraceutical index up to the addition of 86 g EE/kg DM de sunflower oil in the diets of Jersey cows.

The Effect of Ethyl Esters of Linseed Oil on the Changes in the Fatty Acid Profile of Hair Coat Sebum, Blood Serum and Erythrocyte Membranes in Healthy Dogs

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supplementation with ethyl esters of linseed oil on the fatty acid profile in hair sebum, blood serum and erythrocyte membranes in healthy dogs. The material for the study included hair and blood samples of adult beagle dogs. The experiment was performed in two periods: summer and winter. Each time it lasted 16 weeks. During the first 8 weeks, the dogs received a supplement, the amount of which was determined individually so that the ratio of α-linolenic acid (ALA) to linoleic acid (LA) together in the feed and supplement was 1:1. Hair coat and blood samples were collected on days 0, 56 and 112; i.e., before the start of supplementation, after 8 weeks of supplementation and 8 weeks after supplementation was completed. The study included a determination of the fatty acid profile with a particular emphasis on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in hair sebum, blood serum and erythrocyte membranes. As a result of supplementation, a significant decrease in saturated acids and an increase in unsaturated acids was observed in hair sebum both in summer and winter and especially in omega-3 fatty acids; i.e., α-linolenic (ALA) and its derivatives eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The same relationships were observed in blood serum and in erythrocyte cell membranes in all the studied periods. Additionally, 8 weeks after the end of supplementation, the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids was still higher compared to the period before supplementation. Moreover, the supplementation resulted in a favorable decrease in the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 acids in the tested samples, which persisted even after the withdrawal period.

Chronic hypoxia and hyperoxia alter tissue-specific fatty acid profile and FD6D and elongase gene expression levels in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Commercially important trout species, especially rainbow trout, are under great threat due to several negative factors affecting oxygen levels in water such as global warming and eutrophication. In our study, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was exposed to chronic (for 28 days) hypoxia (4.0 ± 0.5 mg/L) and hyperoxia (12 ± 1.2 mg/L) in order to evaluate the alteration of fatty acid profiles in muscle, liver and gill tissues. In addition, delta-6-desaturase and elongase gene expression profiles were measured in liver, kidney and gill tissues. The amount of saturated fatty acids increased by oxygen applications in the liver, while it decreased in the muscle and gill tissues compared to normoxia (p < 0.05). Monounsaturated fatty acids levels increased in muscle and gill (p < 0.05). Although n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) decreased in muscle tissue, n-6 PUFA increased (p < 0.05). The n-3/n-6 ratio decreased in muscle tissue in response to the both exposures (p < 0.05) as well as eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid ratio (p < 0.05). Hypoxia exposure generally increased delta-6-desaturase and elongase mRNA levels in all tissues (p < 0.05). However, gene expression profiles were variable in fish exposed to hyperoxia. As a result of oxygen exposures, the lipid profile of muscle tissue, which stores dense fat, was negatively affected more than that of liver and gill tissues. We determined that the change in expression levels was tissue specific.

Dietary Supplementation with Milk Lipids Leads to Suppression of Developmental and Behavioral Phenotypes of Hyperexcitable Drosophila Mutants

Dietary modifications often have a profound impact on the penetrance and expressivity of neurological phenotypes that are caused by genetic defects. Our previous studies in Drosophila melanogaster revealed that seizure-like phenotypes of gain-of-function voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channel mutants (paraShu, parabss1, and paraGEFS+), as well as other seizure-prone "bang-sensitive" mutants (eas and sda), were drastically suppressed by supplementation of a standard diet with milk whey. In the current study we sought to determine which components of milk whey are responsible for the diet-dependent suppression of their hyperexcitable phenotypes. Our systematic analysis reveals that supplementing the diet with a modest amount of milk lipids (0.26% w/v) mimics the effects of milk whey. We further found that a minor milk lipid component, α-linolenic acid, contributed to the diet-dependent suppression of adult paraShu phenotypes. Given that lipid supplementation during the larval stages effectively suppressed adult paraShu phenotypes, dietary lipids likely modify neural development to compensate for the defects caused by the mutations. Consistent with this notion, lipid feeding fully rescued abnormal dendrite development of class IV sensory neurons in paraShu larvae. Overall, our findings demonstrate that milk lipids are sufficient to ameliorate hyperexcitable phenotypes in Drosophila mutants, providing a foundation for future investigation of the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which dietary lipids modify genetically induced abnormalities in neural development, physiology, and behavior.

Fish oil supplementation protects against protein undernutrition-induced testicular and ovarian biochemical alterations in rats

Proteins are required for biological functions and their inadequacy might impair the growth and development of the reproductive system. The study investigated the effects of fish oil (FO) supplementation on low-protein diet-induced alterations in male and female reproductive organs. Male and female rats were assigned randomly to four groups respectively. The NPD rats had five rats per group and were given 16% casein diet while the LPD rats had eight rats per group and received 5% casein diet. After the 8th week, FO was administered for 3 weeks via oral gavage at a concentration of 400mg Kg^-1 after which the rats were sacrificed and testes and ovaries were excised. LPD-fed rats showed lower body weights for both genders. In LPD-fed rats, NO was significantly increased while GSH, vitamins C and E levels, the activities of CAT (except in ovaries), and GST were significantly reduced in both tissues. The activities of SOD and GPx were only reduced in the testes including sperm count, motility, and increase deformed sperm cells. Testosterone and progesterone levels were also reduced and lipid homeostasis was disrupted in the plasma of LPD-fed rats. FO supplementation reduces the NO, CHOL, TG, LDL (in females), and VLDL but significantly improves HDL (in females), testosterone, and progesterone levels, sperm count, motility, and morphology. The antioxidant status of both tissues also increased significantly in LPD-fed rats. Conclusively, FO might be effective in improving testicular and ovarian functions and for the maintenance of plasma lipid homeostasis in LPD-fed rats.

Chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk from Xinjiang

Pamir yak milk is considered to be ideal food for local people, but its nutritional profile has not yet been reported. This study investigated the chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk, and compared the results with reference composition of goat and cow milk. We found that the Pamir yak milk had higher contents of protein (4.30%), fat (4.63), lactose (5.21%) and total solid (14.84%) than that of goat and cow milk. The predominant amino acids were glutamate (20%), proline (10%), lysine (10%) and leucine (10%), of which the essential amino acids accounted for 48% of the total amino acids. Meanwhile, Pamir yak milk was rich in minerals such as Ca, Fe, Zn and Mg and thiamine (B₁ ), niacin (B₃ ), Pyridoxine (B₆ ) and cobalamin (B₁₂ ) were higher than those of cow and goat milk. Also, medium-chain fatty acids (C12-C16) exhibited the highest level. However, The α -linolenic acid (C18:3), eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were found in yak milk. All of the above-mentioned differences were demonstrated by the fact that the yak milk quality may be affecting by pasture production, animal species and nutritive value of the herbage. Therefore, Pamir yak milk is a promising alternative food that may contribute to human health.

Effects of bovine milk and buffalo milk on lipid metabolism in mice

Buffalo milk contains more polyunsaturated fatty acids than bovine milk. However, it is not clear about the effects of buffalo milk and bovine milk on lipid metabolism. In this study, a mouse model was used to explore the effects of buffalo milk and bovine milk on lipid metabolism in mice. The experiment was divided into three groups: a control group on a normal diet; a bovine milk group infused with bovine milk; a buffalo milk group infused with buffalo milk. We fed three groups of mice (n = 6) for 6 weeks. These results showed that bovine milk and buffalo milk had no effect on body weight gain. Bovine milk increased the content of ApoA1, ApoB and glucose in serum, compared with the control group, but buffalo milk has no profound change in serum ApoB. Remarkably, buffalo milk decreased the content of total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) in the liver lipid profile, and also downregulated the expression of the carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 (Cpt2) gene involved in the fatty acid oxidation in the liver. This study also found that bovine milk and buffalo milk did not cause the expression of pro-inflammatory factors in serum and colon tissues. This experiment proved that buffalo milk has beneficial effects on the regulation of lipid metabolism, and also does not affect the normal growth and pro-inflammatory response of the colon in mice. It provides a theoretical basis for future in-depth research on the special functions of buffalo milk and the development of buffalo milk functional foods.

An Egg Intervention Improves Dietary Intakes but Does Not Fill Intake Gaps for Multiple Micronutrients among Infants in Rural Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

Eggs are nutrient-rich. Strengthening evidence of the impact of egg consumption on dietary quality can inform complementary feeding guidance.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to assess the effect of an egg intervention on dietary intakes among infants aged 6-12 mo in rural Bangladesh.

METHODS

We conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial allocating clusters (n = 566) to enteric pathogen control or placebo treatment, with daily provision of a protein-rich meal, isocaloric meal, egg, or control. Nutrition education was provided to all arms. Our focus here is on the egg and control arms. Infants were enrolled at 3 mo. From 6 mo, we visited households weekly to distribute eggs and measure compliance. A semistructured feeding questionnaire assessed 24-h intake at 6, 9, and 12 mo. Assessments were repeated in ∼10% of subjects 2-29 d later. Using NCI SAS macros, we estimated usual intake distributions for energy, protein, fat, and 18 micronutrients and the proportion meeting intake recommendations. We compared the outcomes between the arms using clustered bootstrapping.

RESULTS

Data were available from 757 infants (137 clusters) and 943 infants (141 clusters) in the egg and control arms, respectively. In the egg arm compared with the control arm, the mean usual intakes were higher for energy (610 compared with 602 kcal/d, 9 mo; 669 compared with 658 kcal/d, 12 mo), crude protein (2.2 compared with 1.7 g/(kg·d), 9 mo; 2.4 compared with 1.9 g/(kg·d), 12 mo), available protein (2.0 compared with 1.6 g/(kg·d), 9 mo; 2.1 compared with 1.8 g/(kg·d), 12 mo), and for 13 and 14 micronutrients at 9 and 12 mo, respectively. The proportion meeting intake recommendations for most micronutrients was higher in the egg arm but remained <50% for 15 and 13 micronutrients at 9 and 12 mo, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily egg consumption improved dietary intakes among Bangladeshi infants, but was insufficient to meet multiple micronutrient intake recommendations, demonstrating the need to be coupled with other strategies.

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: A Factory of Nutraceutical and Food Supplements for Human Health

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii) is one of the most well-studied microalgae organisms that revealed important information for the photosynthetic and metabolic processes of plants and eukaryotes. Numerous extensive studies have also underpinned its great potential as a biochemical factory, capable of producing various highly desired molecules with a direct impact on human health and longevity. Polysaccharides, lipids, functional proteins, pigments, hormones, vaccines, and antibodies are among the valuable biomolecules that are produced spontaneously or under well-defined conditions by C. reinhardtii and can be directly linked to human nutrition and diet. The aim of this review is to highlight the recent advances in the field focusing on the most relevant applications related to the production of important biomolecules for human health that are also linked with human nutrition and diet. The limitations and challenges are critically discussed along with the potential future applications of C. reinhardtii biomass and processed products in the field of nutraceuticals and food supplements. The increasing need for high-value and low-cost biomolecules produced in an environmentally and economy sustainable manner also underline the important role of C. reinhardtii.

Effects of Pork Backfat Replacement with Emulsion Gels Formulated with a Mixture of Olive, Chia and Algae Oils on the Quality Attributes of Pork Patties

This paper reports on the development of new emulsion gels containing a mixture of olive, chia and algae oil emulsified with soy protein isolate and stabilized by two different cold gelling agents, gelatin (EGEL) and chitosan (ECHIT), and to evaluate their potential use as pork backfat replacers in cooked pork patties. Reformulated patties were produced by half and full pork backfat replacement and compared to normal fat patties and reduced fat content patties made by replacing half of the added fat with water. Color parameters, pH and thermal stability of the emulsion gels were determined at processing and after 10 days of refrigerated storage. Proximate composition, fatty acid profile, technological properties and sensory attributes were evaluated after patty processing, while color parameters, pH and lipid oxidation were monitored in patties during 15 days of refrigerated storage (4 °C). Reformulated patties showed significant improvements of the lipid profile (lower saturated fatty acid content and n-6/n-3 ratio and higher long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid content) as compared to the controls. In terms of technological properties, chitosan was more effective than gelatin as a stabilizer of the emulsion gel. All reformulated patties showed a good evolution of lipid oxidation during storage and acceptable sensory attributes.

A combination of omega-3 and exercise reduces experimental Achilles tendinopathy induced with a type-1 collagenase in rats

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of omega-3 supplementation with exercise in a collagenase-induced Achilles tendinopathy (AT) rat model. Experimental groups (healthy control (HC), AT, exercise (Ex), omega-3 (W), and Ex+W) were randomly allocated. After a week of adaptation, oral omega-3 was initiated for 8 weeks (5 days/week). The exercise groups performed treadmill running for 30 min/day (5 days/week, 20 m/min, 8 weeks) following one week of adaptation (10 m/min, 15 min/day). Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and total antioxidant-oxidant status (TAS) levels were determined in serum samples. Tendon samples were obtained for biomechanical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical assessments. Ultimate tensile force, yield force, stiffness values, collagen type-I alpha 1 expression, and serum TAS significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in AT vs. HC. These values and expression significantly increased in the Ex+W group vs. AT. Serum MMP-13, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels decreased in all treatment groups vs. AT. The most significant decrease was found in the Ex+W group (P < 0.01). Histopathologically, the improvement in degeneration was statistically significant in the Ex+W group (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemically, MMP-13, IL-1β, TNF-α, and nitric oxide synthase-2 expression was decreased in all treatment groups vs. AT. In conclusion, omega-3 and exercise might be recommended in AT patients.

Effect of Gum Acacia on the Intestinal Bioavailability of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Rats

Lipid emulsification is a technique that is being explored for improving the bioavailability of omega 3 (n-3) long chain (LC) fatty acid (FA). The nature of the emulsifiers can differently impact the lipid bioavailability via a modification of the lipolysis step. Among natural emulsifiers, gum acacia (GA), an indigestible polysaccharide, provides protective encapsulation of n-3 by forming a specifically crown-like shape around lipid drops, which could also impact the digestion step. Despite the interest in lipolysis rate, the impact of GA on lipid bioavailability has never been explored in a complete physiological context. Thus, we followed in a kinetics study the n-3 bioavailability in rat lymph, orally administered DHA-rich oil, formulated based on GA compared to the bulk phase form of the oil. The AUC values were significantly improved by +121% for total TG and by 321% for n-3 PUFA, specifically for EPA (+244%) and for DHA (+345%). Benefits of GA have also been related to the transport of FA in lymph, which was 2 h earlier (Tmax = 4 h), compared to the Tmax (6 h) obtained with the bulk phase oil. All the data showed that GA is one of the most favorable candidates of natural emulsifiers to improve n-3 bioavailability and their rate of absorption for health targets.

Evaluation of cytokines in protective effect of docosahexaenoic acid in experimental achilles tendinopathy rat model induced with type-1 collagenase

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as a treatment for Achilles tendinopathy (AT) induced with type-I collagenase in rats and compare it with collagen.

METHODS

The AT model was induced with type I collagenase, and animals were randomly assigned to groups. Group 1:AT, Group 2: Collagen (7.2 mg/kg/day), Group 3:DHA (300 mg/kg/day), and Group 4:DHA (100 mg/kg/day). Right tendons of Group1 were used as a healthy control (HC). Oral treatments were applied for eight weeks. Serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), and interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β) concentrations were determined by ELISA. Tendon samples were taken for histopathological evaluation and examined immunohistochemically with antibodies specific for Col1A1, TNF-α, MMP-13, IL-1β, and nitric oxide synthase-2(NOS-2). The ultimate tensile force (UTF) yield force(YF) and stiffness were measured by biomechanical assessments.

RESULTS

UTF,YF and stiffness values were increased in all treatment groups compared to the AT control, a significant increase was found in Group 2 (p < 0.05). There was severe degeneration of tendon cells in the AT control. The tendon cells in samples from Groups 2-3 were less degraded, and this was statistically significant (p < 0.05). TNF-α, MMP-13, IL-1β, and NOS-2 expressions were significantly higher in the AT control compared to the HC. In all treatment groups, their concentrations were lower than in the AT control. Serum TNF-α, MMP-13, and IL-1β levels were lower in all treatment groups (Especially in Group3 (p < 0.001)) compared to Group1.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy of high-dose DHA as a treatment for AT was investigated from biochemical, histopathological, and biomechanical perspectives. The results showed that DHA could be an alternative treatment compound to collagen.

Production, Biosynthesis, and Commercial Applications of Fatty Acids From Oleaginous Fungi

Oleaginous fungi (including fungus-like protists) are attractive in lipid production due to their short growth cycle, large biomass and high yield of lipids. Some typical oleaginous fungi including Galactomyces geotrichum, Thraustochytrids, Mortierella isabellina, and Mucor circinelloides, have been well studied for the ability to accumulate fatty acids with commercial application. Here, we review recent progress toward fermentation, extraction, of fungal fatty acids. To reduce cost of the fatty acids, fatty acid productions from raw materials were also summarized. Then, the synthesis mechanism of fatty acids was introduced. We also review recent studies of the metabolic engineering strategies have been developed as efficient tools in oleaginous fungi to overcome the biochemical limit and to improve production efficiency of the special fatty acids. It also can be predictable that metabolic engineering can further enhance biosynthesis of fatty acids and change the storage mode of fatty acids.

Deciphering the immunoboosting potential of macro and micronutrients in COVID support therapy

The immune system protects human health from the effects of pathogenic organisms; however, its activity is affected when individuals become infected. These activities require a series of molecules, substrates, and energy sources that are derived from diets. The consumed nutrients from diets help to enhance the immunity of infected individuals as it relates to COVID-19 patients. This study aims to review and highlight requirement and role of macro- and micronutrients of COVID-19 patients in enhancing their immune systems. Series of studies were found to have demonstrated the enhancing potentials of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, copper, zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, and selenium) in supporting the immune system's fight against respiratory infections. Each of these nutrients performs a vital role as an antiviral defense in COVID-19 patients. Appropriate consumption or intake of dietary sources that yield these nutrients will help provide the daily requirement to support the immune system in its fight against pathogenic viruses such as COVID-19.

Insulin activates LC-PUFA biosynthesis of hepatocytes by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR/Srebp1 pathway in teleost Siganus canaliculatus

Insulin is well known an important metabolic regulator in glucose and lipid metabolism. It has been proved to activate long-chain (≥ C₂₀) polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) biosynthesis in mammals, but little is known about such a role in fish. To explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of insulin in fish LC-PUFA biosynthesis, we treated the rabbitfish S. canaliculatus hepatocyte line (SCHL) cells with 65 nM insulin for 12 h, and the results showed that the mRNA levels of genes encoding the key enzymes and transcription factor involved in rabbitfish LC-PUFA biosynthesis such as Δ6Δ5 fads2, elovl5 and srebp1, as well as those of PI3K pathway genes including pdk1, akt2 and mtor increased significantly. Moreover, SCHL cells treated with different PI3K/Akt pathway inhibitors (LY294002, Wortmannin, AKTi-1/2) alone or combined with insulin decreased the mRNA levels of PI3K/Akt/mTOR downstream signaling genes, including Δ6Δ5 fads2, Δ4 fads2, elovl5, elovl4 and srebp1. While PI3K/Akt agonists (740 Y-P, IGF-1, SC-79) had the opposite results. The results of fatty acid composition analysis of hepatocytes showed that insulin stimulation increased the Δ6Δ5 Fads2-dependent PUFA desaturation indexes, while Elovl5-dependent PUFA elongation indexes had upward trends, and consequently LC-PUFA contents increased. Taken together, these results indicated that insulin activated LC-PUFA biosynthesis probably through PI3K/Akt/mTOR/Srebp1 pathway in S. canaliculatus hepatocytes.

Healthy Eating Enhances Intrinsic Capacity, Thus Promoting Functional Ability of Retirement Home Residents in Northern Taiwan

Healthy aging is defined as the process of developing and maintaining functional ability in older age with intrinsic capacity, the composite of all the physical and mental capacities of an individual, being the core. This study was conducted to explore the intervention effects of improved dietary quality on intrinsic capacity. A prospective single-group interventional quasi-experimental study with 59 functional independent older adults from retirement homes were recruited. Texture-modified plant-based dietary supplements were provided. In addition, dietary intake, functional ability, and intrinsic capacity in vitality, locomotion, cognition, and psychological capacity were assessed. Vitality was captured by nutritional status, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Locomotor capacity was assessed based on the performance of physical fitness in backscratch test, chair-sit-and-reach test, chair-stand test, one-foot-standing test, and gaits peed. Psychomotor capacity and cognition were measured by using 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), respectively. In a 4-month of intervention, after controlling for baseline values and covariates, participants with higher dietary intervention adherence showed a significant improvement over time in vitality captured by cardiorespiratory endurance (Pinteraction = 0.009) and significant improvement in locomotion captured by gait speed (Pclusters = 0.034). A significant decrease in the chair-stand test (Ptime = <0.001) and MMSE (Ptime = 0.022) was observed during the four months of intervention. Enhanced intrinsic capacity further contributed to the improvement of ADL over time (Pinteraction = 0.034). In conclusion, healthy eating enhances intrinsic capacity in vitality and locomotion thus promoting functional ability among older adults.

Effect of increased levels of dietary α-linolenic acid on the n-3 PUFA bioavailability and oxidative stress in rat

We investigated the impact of increased alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) dietary levels on its plasma bioavailability and its bioconversion in n-3 long chain poly unsaturated fatty acids during a 60-d kinetics and the oxidative stress potentially associated. Rats were submitted to a normolipidic diet providing 0, 3, 10 and 24% ALA of dietary lipids for 0, 15, 30 and 60 days. The lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress (nitric oxide (NO) contents and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), gluthation peroxidase (GPx) activities) were studied in the liver and plasma. When the diet was deprived in n-3 PUFAs, ALA, (eicosanoic acid) EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels decreased in all lipid fractions of plasma and in red blood cell (RBC) lipids. The addition of ALA in the diet linearly improves its bioavailability and its bioconversion in EPA (R²=0.98). By providing 10 to 24% ALA in dietary lipids (LA/ALA, 1·6 and 5·5 respectively), ALA and EPA were more broadly packaged in all lipid fractions (triglyceride (TAG), cholesterol ester (CE) and free fatty acids (FFA)) of plasma from 15 to 30 days timeframe. Only 3% ALA was sufficient to promote the maximal bioconversion of ALA in DHA in phospholipid (PL) and TAG fractions. Additionally, the improvement of ALA bioconversion in EPA and DHA did not impact the oxidative stress markers and limiting lipid peroxidation. To conclude, this study demonstrated that in rat, 10% ALA in the lipid diet for 15-30 days promotes its bioavailability and its bioconversion and allowed the greatest levels in plasma and RBCs.

The Influence of Vitamin E and Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Reproductive Health Indices Among Male Workers Exposed to Electromagnetic Fields

The present study aims to investigate the effects of using the supplementation of vitamin E and Omega 3 fatty acids on reproductive indices among workers in an automobile parts manufacturing plant. The effect of exposure to electromagnetic fields on certain sex hormones and sperm parameters will also be assessed. The participants were deployed into four groups as per the double-blind block randomization method. Semen parameters and sex hormones of the participants were analyzed before and after 3-month consumption of supplements. The level of workers’ exposure to low-frequency magnetic and electrical fields was measured through the recommendation of National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Univariate analysis of variance indicated that exposure to electric fields had a statistically significant effect on sperm count, morphology, and motility. The simultaneous consumption of vitamin E + Omega 3 had a statistically significant effect on sperm morphology and motility.

Effect of air fryer frying temperature on the quality attributes of sturgeon steak and comparison of its performance with traditional deep fat frying

In this study, the influence of air-frying temperature on the physical properties of sturgeon steaks was explored. Meanwhile, the comparison of traditional deep fat frying (TF) and air fryer frying (AFF) methods on the quality, flavor, and digestibility of sturgeon steaks were investigated. The results indicated that along with the increase of temperature (130, 160, and 190℃) for 15 min, the moisture content of AFF sturgeon steak surface decreased dramatically while that of interior was well preserved. The applied texture property analysis exhibited that AFF sturgeon steak showed the enhanced elasticity, low hardness, and soft texture. The results indicated that AFF sturgeon steak contained higher essential amino acid content than TF sturgeon steak. More flavor compounds (aldehydes, alcohols, and esters) were produced after AFF than TF. Although the digestibility of fried sturgeon steaks decreased after frying, AFF sturgeon steaks were digested rapidly in the stomach and intestine. Conclusively, AFF sturgeon steaks exhibited a crispy texture, appealing flavor, and low oil content. This work provides a certain reference for the suitable frying methods in the processing industry of sturgeon products.

Therapeutic Potential and Nutraceutical Profiling of North Bornean Seaweeds: A Review

Malaysia has a long coastline surrounded by various islands, including North Borneo, that provide a suitable environment for the growth of diverse species of seaweeds. Some of the important North Bornean seaweed species are Kappaphycus alvarezii, Eucheuma denticulatum, Halymenia durvillaei (Rhodophyta), Caulerpa lentillifera, Caulerpa racemosa (Chlorophyta), Dictyota dichotoma and Sargassum polycystum (Ochrophyta). This review aims to highlight the therapeutic potential of North Bornean seaweeds and their nutraceutical profiling. North Bornean seaweeds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, renal protective and hepatic protective potentials. The protective roles of the seaweeds might be due to the presence of a wide variety of nutraceuticals, including phthalic anhydride, 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene, 2-pentylthiophene, furoic acid (K. alvarezii), eicosapentaenoic acid, palmitoleic acid, fucoxanthin, β-carotene (E. denticulatum), eucalyptol, oleic acid, dodecanal, pentadecane (H. durvillaei), canthaxanthin, oleic acid, pentadecanoic acid, eicosane (C. lentillifera), pseudoephedrine, palmitic acid, monocaprin (C. racemosa), dictyohydroperoxide, squalene, fucosterol, saringosterol (D. dichotoma), and lutein, neophytadiene, cholest-4-en-3-one and cis-vaccenic acid (S. polycystum). Extensive studies on the seaweed isolates are highly recommended to understand their bioactivity and mechanisms of action, while highlighting their commercialization potential.

Modulatory Properties of Food and Nutraceutical Components Targeting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Inflammasomes are key intracellular multimeric proteins able to initiate the cellular inflammatory signaling pathway. NLRP3 inflammasome represents one of the main protein complexes involved in the development of inflammatory events, and its activity has been largely demonstrated to be connected with inflammatory or autoinflammatory disorders, including diabetes, gouty arthritis, liver fibrosis, Alzheimer’s disease, respiratory syndromes, atherosclerosis, and cancer initiation. In recent years, it has been demonstrated how dietary intake and nutritional status represent important environmental elements that can modulate metabolic inflammation, since food matrices are an important source of several bioactive compounds. In this review, an updated status of knowledge regarding food bioactive compounds as NLRP3 inflammasome modulators is discussed. Several chemical classes, namely polyphenols, organosulfurs, terpenes, fatty acids, proteins, amino acids, saponins, sterols, polysaccharides, carotenoids, vitamins, and probiotics, have been shown to possess NLRP3 inflammasome-modulating activity through in vitro and in vivo assays, mainly demonstrating an anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Plant foods are particularly rich in important bioactive compounds, each of them can have different effects on the pathway of inflammatory response, confirming the importance of the nutritional pattern (food model) as a whole rather than any single nutrient or functional compound.

Statistical optimization and formulation of microalga cultivation medium for improved omega 3 fatty acid production

Microalgae are considered a rich source of high-value metabolites with an array of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. Different strategies have been developed for cultivating microalgae at large-scale photobioreactors but high cost and low productivity are the major hurdles. Optimizing the composition of media for the cultivation of microalgae to induce biomass production and high-value metabolite accumulation has been considered as an important factor for sustainable product development. In this study, the effect of plant growth regulators together with basal microalgal cultivation medium on biomass, total lipid, and EPA production was studied using the Plackett-Burman model and Response surface methodology. The traditional one-factor-at-a-time optimization approach is laborious, time-consuming, and requires more experiments which makes the process and analysis more difficult. The Designed PB model was found to be significant for biomass (396 mg/L), lipid (254 mg/L), and EPA (5.6%) production with a P value < 0.05. The major objective of this study is to formulate a medium for EPA production without compromising the growth properties. Further, we had formulated a new media using RSM to achieve the goal and the significant variables selected were NaNO3, NaH2PO4, and IAA and was found to be significant with 16.72% EPA production with a biomass production of 893 mg/L with a P value < 0.05. The formulated medium can be used in large-scale cultivation systems which can enhance biomass production as well as the omega 3 fatty acid production in marine microalgae Nannochloropsis oceanica.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43393-021-00069-1.

Novel Healthy Eating Index to Examine Daily Food Guides Adherence and Frailty in Older Taiwanese

This study was conducted to investigate the adherence of Daily Food Guides (DFGs) among older Taiwanese, and the relationship of dietary quality and frailty. 154 functional independent older adults who were retirement home residents or community dwellers involved in congregate meal services were recruited. DFGs adherence was measured using a novel Taiwanese Healthy Index (T-HEI). Dietary quality was further assessed using Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS). Frailty was defined using modified Fried’s criteria. Of the total participants, 12.3% were considered non-frail individuals, while 77.3% were prefrail, and 10.4% were frail. Compared to non-frail participants, prefrail and frail individuals indicated significantly lower adherence to DFGs (p_trend = 0.025). Intake of dark or orange vegetables (p_trend = 0.010), whole grains (p_trend = 0.007), as well as nuts and seeds (p_trend = 0.029) by non-frail individuals were significantly higher than the levels by prefrail and frail individuals. Linear regression model adjusted for age, gender, and functional ability showed that T-HEI was inversely associated with frailty status (β = −0.16 ± 0, p = 0.047), but additional adjustment for nutritional status attenuated the association (β = −0.14 ± 0, p = 0.103). A similar relationship was observed for DASH but not MDS (DASH: β = −0.18 ± 0.01, p = 0.024; MDS: β = −0.06 ± 0.02, p = 0.465). After adjustment for confounders, the association was not observed. However, the distribution of whole grains component in both DASH and MDS was significantly higher in non-frail than prefrail and frail individuals, indicating the importance of whole grains intake in frailty prevention. In conclusion, higher adherence to DFGs and better dietary quality were associated with a lower prevalence of frailty. Higher nutrient-dense foods intake such as whole grains, dark or orange vegetables, nuts, and seeds mark a watershed in frailty prevention.

Early overnutrition in male mice negates metabolic benefits of a diet high in monounsaturated and omega-3 fats

Overconsumption of saturated fats promotes obesity and type 2 diabetes. Excess weight gain in early life may be particularly detrimental by promoting earlier diabetes onset and potentially by adversely affecting normal development. In the present study we investigated the effects of dietary fat composition on early overnutrition-induced body weight and glucose regulation in Swiss Webster mice, which show susceptibility to high-fat diet-induced diabetes. We compared glucose homeostasis between a high-fat lard-based (HFL) diet, high in saturated fats, and a high-fat olive oil/fish oil-based (HFO) diet, high in monounsaturated and omega-3 fats. We hypothesized that the healthier fat profile of the latter diet would improve early overnutrition-induced glucose dysregulation. However, early overnutrition HFO pups gained more weight and adiposity and had higher diabetes incidence compared to HFL. In contrast, control pups had less weight gain, adiposity, and lower diabetes incidence. Plasma metabolomics revealed reductions in various phosphatidylcholine species in early overnutrition HFO mice as well as with diabetes. These findings suggest that early overnutrition may negate any beneficial effects of a high-fat diet that favours monounsaturated and omega-3 fats over saturated fats. Thus, quantity, quality, and timing of fat intake throughout life should be considered with respect to metabolic health outcomes.

Effect of Oil Extract from Microalgae (Schizochytrium sp.) on the Viability and Apoptosis of Human Osteosarcoma Cells

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcoma is a malignant tumor type that starts in bone and occurs most frequently in adolescents. Traditional techniques are insufficient, especially for metastatic ones. As alternative treatment techniques, natural products are worthy of examining due to being safe and innovative. Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, have various positive effects on human health and growth. In addition, some PUFAs show anti-cancer activity by inducing apoptosis, specifically in cancer cells.

OBJECTIVE

Here, the study aims to investigate the time and dose-dependent effects of oil extract from Schizochytrium sp. against the osteosarcoma cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human Fetal Osteoblast Cells (hFOB) and osteosarcoma cells (SAOS-2) were treated with different concentrations of fatty acid samples. GC-FID was performed for fatty acid composition analysis of Schizochytrium sp. MTT-cell viability and Annexin V-apoptosis assays were performed to investigate the time and dose-dependent effects of the samples on cell lines.

RESULTS

The oil extract sample has a specific activity against the SAOS-2 cancer line and decreases cell proliferation, especially at high dose treatments. Apoptosis assay results indicate that the oil extract sample causes a significant increase in the number of apoptotic cells in the SAOS-2 cell line (71.7% of SAOS-2 cells), which shows its selective activity against bone cancer cell line as a natural anti-cancer molecule.

CONCLUSION

It was observed that Schizochytrium sp. extract has a time and dose-dependent ability to induce apoptosis, specifically in SAOS-2 cells.

Long Chain Fatty Acids as Modulators of Immune Cells Function: Contribution of FFA1 and FFA4 Receptors

Long-chain fatty acids are molecules that act as metabolic intermediates and constituents of membranes; however, their novel role as signaling molecules in immune function has also been demonstrated. The presence of free fatty acid (FFA) receptors on immune cells has contributed to the understanding of this new role of long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) in immune function, showing their role as anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory molecules and elucidating their intracellular mechanisms. The FFA1 and FFA4 receptors, also known as GPR40 and GPR120, respectively, have been described in macrophages and neutrophils, two key cells mediating innate immune response. Ligands of the FFA1 and FFA4 receptors induce the release of a myriad of cytokines through well-defined intracellular signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the cellular responses and intracellular mechanisms activated by LCFAs, such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), in T-cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, as well as the role of the FFA1 and FFA4 receptors in immune cells.

Microalgal feedstock for the production of omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters and ɛ-polylysine

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Microalgal omega-3 fatty acids can be an alternative for fish based omega-3 fatty acids.

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Potassium carbonate is the efficient catalyst for the ethyl ester production.

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ɛ-polylysine can be produced from the spent biomass after transesterification.

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Co-production of two products could be the promising bio-refinery approach.

Microalgal omega-3 fatty acids are considered as an efficient alternative for fish-based omega-3 fatty acids. Ethyl esters derived from omega-3 fatty acids are being considered as the drug for hypertriglyceridemia. In this study, omega-3 fatty acids rich Chlorella sp. was utilized for the transesterification for the ethyl ester production using a potassium carbonate alkaline catalyst. At the optimized conditions of transesterification, 86.2% ethyl ester yield was achieved with solvent to algae ratio (20 mL/g), water addition (45 %), catalyst (4 %), temperature (75°C), and reaction time (60 min). Additionally, the acid-hydrolysed spent biomass was used for the production of ɛ-polylysine by fermentation using Streptomyces sp. as fermentative organism. The maximum yield of 1.78 g/L was achieved after 90 h fermentation. This study established a biorefinery approach where two highly valuable compounds could be produced from the Chlorella sp. by transesterification followed by fermentation.

Growth and fatty acid composition of Acutodesmus obliquus under different light spectra and temperatures

The combined impact of temperature and light spectra on the fatty acid (FA) composition in microalgae has been sparsely investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the interactions of light and temperature on the FA composition in Acutodesmus obliquus. For this purpose, A. obliquus was cultivated with different temperatures (20, 30, and 35°C), as well as broad light spectra (blue, green, and red light). Growth and FA composition were monitored daily. Microalgal FA were extracted, and a qualitative characterization was done by gas chromatography coupled with electron impact ionization mass spectrometry (GC-EI/MS). Compared to red light, green and blue light caused a higher percentage of the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) 16:4, 18:3, and 18:4, at all temperatures. The highest total percentage of these PUFA were observed at the lowest cultivation temperature and blue and green light. These data imply that a combination of lower temperatures and blue-green light (450-550 nm) positively influences the activity of specific FA-desaturases in A. obliquus. Additionally, a lower 16:1 trans/cis ratio was observed upon green and blue light treatment and lower cultivation temperatures. Remarkably, green light treatment resulted in a comparably high growth under all tested conditions. Therefore, a higher content of green light, compared to blue light might additionally lead to a higher biomass concentration. Microalgae cultivation with low temperatures and green light might therefore result in a suitable FA composition for the food industry and a comparably high biomass production.

Determination of in vivo biological activities of Dodonaea viscosa flowers against CCL4 toxicity in albino mice with bioactive compound detection

Dodonaea viscosa L.Jacq. is an evergreen shrub and native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. It has been used as traditional medicine in different countries. The foremost objective of the current study was to discover the protective potential of D. viscosa flowers Methanol (DVM) and Chloroform (DVC) extracts against CCL₄ induced toxicity in mice. This study was intended to identify phytochemicals through HPLC, GCMS, and FT-IR, as well as in vitro antioxidant and in vitro anti-tuberculosis activity. Our comprehensive findings indicate that Dodonaea viscosa is valuable and widespread herbal medicine through therapeutic potentials for curing various ailments. Dodonaeaviscosa flowersare found to have a protective effect against oxidative stress produced by CCL₄ in the liver, kidney, and spleen. The intake of DV extracts restored the level of hepatic enzymes (ALP, AST ALT, and Direct bilirubin), hematological parameters (RBCs, WBCs, and Platelets), total protein, and liver antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and CAT) after a decline in levels by CCL₄. Histopathological results discovered the defensive effect of 300 mg/kg of DVM extract against CCL₄ induced damage, thus having an improved protective effect compared to DVC and control. As a result of metabolite screening, the total flavonoids and total phenolics were present in abundance. A phytochemical investigation by HPLC identified gallic acid, epicatechin, cumeric acid, flavonoids, while GCMS estimated oleic acid (Octadecenoic acid) (C₁₈H₃₄O₂), Stearic acid (C₁₈H₃₆O₂), Ricinoleic acid (C₁₈H₃₄O₃), and Cedrol (C₁₅H₂₆O). DVM extract exhibited resistance against in vitro Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains. So this study proposed that the protective effect of DV against oxidative damage induced in the liver, kidney, and spleen can be correlated to the antioxidant compounds.

Recent developments in maintaining gel properties of surimi products under reduced salt conditions and use of additives

Salt is a necessary condition to produce a surimi product that is based on the gelation of salt-soluble myofibrillar proteins. Recently, there has been a growing concern among consumers to consume healthy foods due to the threat of several chronic diseases caused by an unhealthy diet. Methods of reducing salt content out of concern for health issues caused by excessive sodium intake may affect the gel properties of surimi, as can many health-oriented food additives. Several studies have investigated different strategies to improve the health characteristics of surimi products without decreasing gel properties. This review reports recent developments in this area and how the gel properties were successfully maintained under reduced-salt conditions and the use of additives. This review of recent studies presents a great deal of progress made in the health benefits of surimi and can be used as a reference for further development in the surimi product processing industry.

Effect of a Rumen-Protected Microencapsulated Supplement from Linseed Oil on the Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Fatty Acid Composition in Korean Native Steers

Simple Summary

In vitro and in vivo studies on the supplementation of rumen-protected microencapsulated fatty acid from linseed oil (MO) on rumen digestibility, physiological profile, growth performance, meat quality, and meat fatty acid profile in Korean native steers were conducted. The in vitro study showed that 3% MO is an optimal dose, as there were decreases in the neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber digestibility at 48 h. Supplementation with 3% MO not only promotes growth performance but also enhances the omega-3 fatty acid concentration of meat in Korean native steers.

Abstract

We evaluated the effects of a rumen-protected microencapsulated supplement from linseed oil (MO) on ruminal fluid, growth performance, meat quality, and fatty acid composition in Korean native steers. In an in vitro experiment, ruminal fluid was taken from two fistulated Holstein dairy cows. Different levels of MO (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) were added to the diet. In an in vivo experiment, eight steers (average body weight = 597.1 ± 50.26 kg; average age = 23.8 ± 0.12 months) were assigned to two dietary groups, no MO (control) and MO (3% MO supplementation on a DM basis), for 186 days. The in vitro study revealed that 3% MO is an optimal dose, as there were decreases in the neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber digestibility at 48 h (p < 0.05). The in vivo study showed increases in the feed efficiency and average daily gain in the 3% MO group compared to the control group on days 1 to 90 (p < 0.05). Regarding meat quality, the shear force produced by the longissimus thoracis muscle in steers from the 3% MO group was lower than that produced by the control group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, in terms of the fatty acid profile, higher concentrations of C22:6n3 were demonstrated in the subcutaneous fat and higher concentrations of C18:3n3, C20:3n3, and C20:5n3 were found in the intramuscular fat from steers fed with 3% MO (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that supplementation with 3% MO supplements improves the growth performance and meat quality modulated by the omega-3 fatty acid content of meat in Korean native steers.

7-Docosahexaenoyl-Quercetin

Fatty acids and polyphenols represent different classes of pharmacologically active molecules. Hybrid derivatives of these compounds are interesting therapeutic tools. They could be obtained using enzymatic approaches, which allow regioselective derivatizations. In this short note, the pancreatic porcine lipase was employed to mediate the regioselective synthesis of 7-docosahexaenoyl-quercetin was described. The C-7 regioisomer formation was confirmed by 1H-NMR experiment. Generally, in this approach the alcoholic OH- was preferred when present. Nevertheless, in this case, it was demonstrated that the hindrance of the acyl group is a variable to obtain a good regioselectivity in C-7 position, employing only one-step reaction.

The Ω-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid selectively induces apoptosis in tumor-derived cells and suppress tumor growth in gastric cancer

Despite current achievements and innovations in cancer treatment, conventional chemotherapy has several limitations, such as unsatisfactory long-term survival, cancer drug resistance and toxicity against non-tumoral cells. In the search for safer therapeutic alternatives, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has shown promising effects inhibiting tumor growth without significant side effects in several types of cancer, but in gastric cancer (GC) its effects have not been completely described. In this study, we characterized the effects of DHA in GC using in vivo and in vitro models. Among all of the evaluated Ω-3 and Ω-6 fatty acids, DHA showed the highest antiproliferative potency and selectivity against the GC-derived cell line AGS. 10-100 μM DHA decreased AGS cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner but had no effect on non-tumoral GES-1 cells. To evaluate if the effects of DHA were due to apoptosis induction, cells were stained with Annexin V-PI, observing that 75 and 100 μM DHA increased apoptosis in AGS, but not in GES-1 cells. Additionally, levels of several proapoptotic and antiapoptotic regulators were assessed by qPCR, western blot and activity assays, showing similar results. In order to evaluate DHA efficacy in vivo, xenografts in an immunodeficient mouse model (BALB/cNOD-SCID) were used. In these experiments, DHA treatment for six weeks consistently reduced subcutaneous tumor size, ascitic fluid volume and liver metastasis. In summary, we found that DHA has a selective antiproliferative effect on GC, being this effect driven by apoptosis induction. Our investigation provides promising features for DHA as potential therapeutic agent in GC.

Leucoselect Phytosome Modulates Serum Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Docosahexaenoic Acid, and Prostaglandin E3 in a Phase I Lung Cancer Chemoprevention Study

Grape seed procyanidin extract (GSE) has been shown to exert antineoplastic properties in preclinical studies. Recently, we reported findings from a modified phase I, open-label, dose escalation clinical study conducted to evaluate the safety, tolerability, MTD, and potential chemopreventive effects of leucoselect phytosome, a standardized GSE complexed with soy phospholipids to enhance bioavailability, in heavy active and former smokers. Three months of leucoselect phytosome treatment significantly decreased bronchial Ki-67 labeling index (LI), a marker of cell proliferation on the bronchial epithelium. Because GSE is widely used as a supplement to support cardiovascular health, we evaluate the impact of oral leucoselect phytosome on the fasting serum complex lipid metabolomics profiles in our participants. One month of leucoselect phytosome treatment significantly increased eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) with well-established anticancer properties. Leucoselect phytosome also significantly increased unsaturated phosphatidylcholines (PC), likely from soy phospolipids in the phytosome and functioning as transporters for these PUFAs. Furthermore, 3-month leucoselect phytosome treatment significantly increased serum prostaglandin (PG) E₃ (PGE₃), a metabolite of EPA with anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic properties. Such increases in PGE₃ correlated with reductions of bronchial Ki-67 LI (r = -0.9; P = 0.0374). Moreover, posttreatment plasma samples from trial participants significantly inhibited proliferation of human lung cancer cell lines A549 (adenocarcinoma), H520 (squamous cell carcinoma), DMS114 (small cell carcinoma), and 1198 (preneoplastic cell line). Our findings further support the potential utility of leucoselect phytosome in reducing cardiovascular and neoplastic risks in heavy former and active smokers. PREVENTION RELEVANCE: In this correlative study of leucoselect phytosome for lung cancer chemoprevention in heavy active and former smokers, we demonstrate for the first time, favorable modulations of n-3PUFA and downstream PGE₃ in fasting serum, further supporting the chemopreventive potential of leucoselect phytosome against lung cancer.

Modeling the structure and infrared spectra of omega-3 fatty acid esters

Omega-3 dietary supplements provide a rich source of the active moieties eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which exist in the form of triacylglycerols or ethyl esters. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy provides a rapid and quantitative tool to assess the quality of these products as specific normal modes, in particular the ester carbonyl stretch modes, exhibit characteristic spectral features for the two ester forms of omega-3 fatty acids. To uncover the origin of the observed spectra, in this work, we perform molecular dynamics simulations of EPA and DHA ethyl esters and triacylglycerols to characterize their conformation, packing, and dynamics in the liquid phase and use a mixed quantum/classical approach to calculate their IR absorption spectra in the ester carbonyl stretch region. We show that the ester liquids exhibit slow dynamics in spectral diffusion and translational and rotational motion, consistent with the diffusion ordered NMR spectroscopy measurements. We further demonstrate that the predicted IR spectra are in good agreement with experiments and reveal how a competition between intermolecular and intramolecular interactions gives rise to distinct absorption peaks for the fatty acid esters.