A novel component of the metabolic syndrome: the oxidative stress

Circulating Fatty Acids Associate with Metabolic Changes in Adolescents Living with Obesity

Fatty acids play a crucial role in obesity development and in the comorbidities of obesity in both adults and children. This study aimed to assess the impact of circulating fatty acids on biomarkers of metabolic health of adolescents living with obesity. Parameters such as blood lipids, redox status, and leukocyte telomere length (rLTL) were measured alongside the proportions of individual fatty acids. The Mann-Whitney U test revealed that individuals with obesity exhibited an unfavorable lipid and redox status compared to the control normal weight group. The group with obesity also had lower plasma n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and a higher ratio of n-6 to n-3 PUFAs than the control group. They also had a shorter rLTL, indicating accelerated biological aging. There was an inverse association of rLTL and plasma n-6-to-n-3 PUFA ratio. Future studies should explore the impact of recommended nutrition plans and increased physical activity on these parameters to determine if these interventions can enhance the health and well-being of adolescents with obesity, knowing that early obesity can track into adulthood.

Overview of Ethnobotanical-Pharmacological Studies Carried Out on Medicinal Plants from the Serra da Estrela Natural Park: Focus on Their Antidiabetic Potential

The Serra da Estrela Natural Park (NPSE) in Portugal stands out as a well-preserved region abundant in medicinal plants, particularly known for their pharmaceutical applications in diabetes prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores these plants' botanical diversity, traditional uses, pharmacological applications, and chemical composition. The NPSE boast a rich diversity with 138 medicinal plants across 55 families identified as traditionally and pharmacologically used against diabetes globally. Notably, the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families are prevalent in antidiabetic applications. In vitro studies have revealed their significant inhibition of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, and certain plant co-products regulate genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin secretion. In vivo trials have demonstrated antidiabetic effects, including glycaemia regulation, insulin secretion, antioxidant activity, and lipid profile modulation. Medicinal plants in NPSE exhibit various activities beyond antidiabetic, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and more. Chemical analyses have identified over fifty compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides responsible for their efficacy against diabetes. These findings underscore the potential of NPSE medicinal plants as antidiabetic candidates, urging further research to develop effective plant-based antidiabetic drugs, beverages, and supplements.

Elemental iron protects gut microbiota against oxygen-induced dysbiosis

Gut dysbiosis induced by oxygen and reactive oxygen species may be related to the development of inflammation, resulting in metabolic syndrome and associated-conditions in the gut. Here we show that elemental iron can serve as an antioxidant and reverse the oxygen-induced dysbiosis. Fecal samples from three healthy donors were fermented with elemental iron and/or oxygen. 16S rRNA analysis revealed that elemental iron reversed the oxygen-induced disruption of Shannon index diversity of the gut microbiota.The bacteria lacking enzymatic antioxidant systems also increased after iron treatment. Inter-individual differences, which corresponded to iron oxidation patterns, were observed for the tested donors. Gut bacteria responding to oxygen and iron treatments were identified as guilds, among which, Escherichia-Shigella was promoted by oxygen and depressed by elemental iron, while changes in bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Blautia, Eubacterium, Ruminococcaceae, Flavonifractor, Oscillibacter, and Lachnospiraceae were reversed by elemental iron after oxygen treatment. Short-chain fatty acid production was inhibited by oxygen and this effect was partially reversed by elemental iron. These results suggested that elemental iron can regulate the oxygen/ROS state and protect the gut microbiota from oxidative stress.

Health Effects of Electrolyzed Hydrogen Water for the Metabolic Syndrome and Pre-Metabolic Syndrome: A 3-Month Randomized Controlled Trial and Subsequent Analyses

We studied the effect of three months' use of electrolyzed hydrogen water (EHW, Electrolyzed Hydrogen Water conditioner produced by Nihon Trim Co., Ltd.) on metabolic and pre-metabolic syndrome groups. This research was carried out jointly by Susaki City; Nihon Trim Co., Ltd.; and Kochi University as part of a local revitalization project with health as a keyword. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group trial was conducted to evaluate the clinical impact of EHW on participants who suffered from metabolic syndrome or pre-metabolic syndrome. EHW was produced via electrolysis using a commercially available apparatus (Nihon Trim Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan). During exercise, oxidative stress increases, and active oxygen species increase. In this study, we examined 181 subjects with metabolic syndrome or pre-metabolic syndrome. Among the group that drank EHW for 3 months, those who also engaged in a high level of physical activity showed a significant difference in waist circumference reduction. Although no significant difference was observed, several positive results were found in the participants who engaged in a high level of physical activity. Urinary 8-OHdG, urinary nitrotyrosine, HbA1c, and blood glucose levels increased in the filtered water (FW) group but decreased in the EHW group. High-sensitivity CRP increased less in the EHW group. 8-Isoprostane decreased more in the EHW group. In subgroup analysis, the EHW group showed a significantly greater reduction in waist circumference than the FW group only when controlled for high physical activity. Based on the result, we suggest that, among participants in the study who suffered from metabolic syndrome and pre-metabolic syndrome in which the level of active oxygen species is said to be higher than in healthy subjects, the group that consumed EHW and also engaged in a high level of physical activity experienced a suppressed or reduced increase in active oxygen species.

A review on the hypoglycemic effect, mechanism and application development of natural dietary polysaccharides

Diabetes mellitus (DM) as one chronic metabolic disease was greatly increased over recent decades. The major agents treating diabetes have noticeable side effects as well as the tolerability problems. The bioactive dietary polysaccharides from abundant natural resources exhibit good hypoglycemic effect with rare adverse effects, which might serve as a candidate to prevent and treat diabetes. However, the correlations between the hypoglycemic mechanism of polysaccharides and their structure were not mentioned in several studies, what's more, most of the current hypoglycemic studies on polysaccharides were based on in vitro and in vivo experiments, and there was a lack of knowledge about the effects in human clinical trials. The aim of this review is to discuss recent literature about the variety of dietary polysaccharides with hypoglycemic activity, as well the mechanism of action and the structure-function relationship are highlighted. Meanwhile, the application of dietary polysaccharides in functional foods and clinical medicine are realized with an in-depth understanding. So as to promote the exploration of dietary polysaccharides in low glycemic healthy foods or clinical medicine to prevent and treat diabetes.

Geographical Distribution of Dietary Patterns and Their Association with T2DM in Chinese Adults Aged 45 y and Above: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the geographical distribution of dietary patterns and their association with T2DM among Chinese adults aged 45 years and above.

METHODS

Data was from the China Adults Chronic Diseases and Nutrition Surveillance (2015). Dietary intake for each participant was determined through a combination of 3-day 24-h dietary recall interviews and food frequency questionnaires. Principal component analysis was used to extract dietary patterns and spatial analysis was employed to investigate the geographic distribution of them. T2DM was diagnosed using criteria of ADA 2018, and binary logistic regression was employed to examine the relationship between dietary patterns and T2DM.

RESULTS

A total of 36,648 participants were included in the study; 10.9% of them were diagnosed as T2DM. Three dietary patterns were identified with the name of plant-based pattern, animal-based pattern, and oriental traditional pattern, which were represented located in northern, northwest, and southern regions, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, participants in the highest quartile of the plant-based pattern were associated with lower T2DM odds (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.74, 0.90) when comparing with the lowest quartile. However, participants inclined to higher quartiles of animal-based pattern had a higher risk of T2DM (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.27) compared with those in the lower quartiles. No significant association was found between the oriental traditional pattern and T2DM (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.93, 1.14).

CONCLUSION

Dietary patterns of Chinese population revealed geographical disparities, with plant-based dietary pattern showing protective effects and animal-based pattern carrying high risks for T2DM. Regional dietary variations and food environment are paramount in T2DM prevention and management.

Oxidative stress in early metabolic syndrome impairs cardiac RyR2 and SERCA2a activity and modifies the interplay of these proteins during Ca2+ waves

We investigated how oxidative stress (OS) alters Ca2+ handling in ventricular myocytes in early metabolic syndrome (MetS) in sucrose-fed rats. The effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) or dl-Dithiothreitol (DTT) on systolic Ca2+ transients (SCaTs), diastolic Ca2+ sparks (CaS) and Ca2+ waves (CaW), recorded by confocal techniques, and L-type Ca2+ current (ICa), assessed by whole-cell patch clamp, were evaluated in MetS and Control cells. MetS myocytes exhibited decreased SCaTs and CaS frequency but unaffected CaW propagation. In Control cells, NAC/DTT reduced RyR2/SERCA2a activity blunting SCaTs, CaS frequency and CaW propagation, suggesting that basal ROS optimised Ca2+ signalling by maintaining RyR2/SERCA2a function and that these proteins facilitate CaW propagation. Conversely, NAC/DTT in MetS recovered RyR2/SERCA2a function, improving SCaTs and CaS frequency, but unexpectedly decreasing CaW propagation. We hypothesised that OS decreases RyR2/SERCA2a activity at early MetS, and while decreased SERCA2a favours CaW propagation, diminished RyR2 restrains it.

A nano-Liposomal formulation potentiates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and fibrinolytic activities of Allolobophora caliginosa coelomic fluid: formulation and characterization

BACKGROUND

Coelomic fluid, a pharmacologically active compound in earthworms, exhibits a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. However, the biological activities exerted by the coelomic fluid can be restrained by its low bioavailability and stability. Liposomes are progressively utilized as an entrapment system for natural bioactive compounds with poor bioavailability and stability, which could be appropriate for coelomic fluid. Thus, the present study was designed to fabricate, characterize, and evaluate the stability of liposomal formulation for Allolobophora caliginosa coelomic fluid (ACCF) as a natural antioxidant compound.

METHODS

The ACCF-liposomes were developed with a subsequent characterization of their physicochemical attributes. The physical stability, ACCF release behavior, and gastrointestinal stability were evaluated in vitro. The biological activities of ACCF and its liposomal formulation were also determined.

RESULTS

The liposomal formulation of ACCF had a steady characteristic absorption band at 201 nm and a transmittance of 99.20 ± 0.10%. Its average hydrodynamic particle size was 98 nm, with a PDI of 0.29 ± 0.04 and a negative zeta potential (-38.66 ± 0.33mV). TEM further confirmed the formation of vesicular, spherical nano-liposomes with unilamellar configuration. Additionally, a remarkable entrapment efficiency percent (77.58 ± 0.82%) with a permeability rate equal to 3.20 ± 0.31% and a high retention rate (54.16 ± 2.20%) for ACCF-liposomes were observed. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) result demonstrated that ACCF successfully entrapped inside liposomes. The ACCF-liposomes exhibited a slow and controlled ACCF release in vitro. Regarding stability studies, the liposomal formulation enhanced the stability of ACCF during storage and at different pH. Furthermore, ACCF-liposomes are highly stable in intestinal digestion conditions comparable to gastric digestion. The current study disclosed that liposomal formulation potentiates the biological activities of ACCF, especially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and thrombolytic activities.

CONCLUSION

These promising results offer a novel approach to increasing the bioaccessibility of ACCF, which may be crucial for the development of pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical-enriched functional foods.

The relation between dietary phytochemical index and metabolic health status in overweight and obese adolescents

Previous studies have rarely investigated dietary phytochemicals consumption in relation to metabolic health of adolescents. The current study was performed to investigate dietary phytochemical index (DPI) in relation to metabolic health status in overweight and obese adolescents. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 203 adolescents with overweight or obesity. Dietary intakes of participants were obtained through a validated 147-item food frequency questionnaire. DPI was calculated [(dietary energy derived from phytochemical-rich foods (kcal)/total daily energy intake (kcal)) ⨯100]. Glycemic and lipid profiles, blood pressure, and anthropometric indices were also measured. A metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUO) profile was determined based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and IDF/Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) definitions. Study subjects had a mean age of 13.98 years and 50.2% of them were girls. According to IDF and IDF/HOMA-IR criteria, 38.9% (37 boys, and 42 girls) and 33% (35 boys, and 32 girls) of the study participants were respectively MUO. According to IDF and IDF/HOMA-IR definitions, adolescents in the third DPI tertile had respectively 61% (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.39, 95%CI 0.16-0.91) and 67% (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.33, 95%CI 0.13-0.83) lower odds of being MUO, compared to the first tertile. Stratified analysis by sex indicated that DPI was inversely related to MUO phenotype based on IDF criteria in girls (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.25, 95%CI 0.06-0.98), but not in boys. The current study found that adolescents with a higher dietary intake of phytochemicals have lower odds of being MUO, particularly among girls. However, further large-scale prospective cohort studies are required to confirm this finding.

Dietary pro-oxidant score (POS) and cardio-metabolic panel among obese individuals: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is a disturbance in the natural balance between oxidative and anti-oxidative processes, which is the major effective factor in cardiovascular disorders and metabolic syndrome (MetS), due to the role of pro-oxidants in inducing oxidative stress, and as a result, the occurrence and exacerbation of components of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors, this cross-sectional study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between the status of dietary pro-oxidants score (POS) and metabolic parameters including serum lipids, glycemic markers and blood pressure among obese adults.

METHODS

338 individuals with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m ²), aged between 20 and 50 years were recruited in the present cross-sectional study. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to determine the dietary pro-oxidant score (POS). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's post-hoc comparisons after adjustment for confounders and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the association of cardiometabolic risk factors among the tertiles of POS.

RESULTS

Participants with higher POS had lower levels of body mass index (BMI), weight and waist circumference (WC). There were no significant associations between metabolic parameters including glycemic markers and lipid profile in one-way ANOVA and multivariate multinomial logistic regression models.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study revealed that greater dietary pro-oxidant intake might be associated with lower BMI, body weight, and WC in Iranian obese individuals. Further studies with interventional or longitudinal approaches will help to better elucidate the causality of the observed associations.

Lipid peroxidation and neuroinflammation: A possible link between maternal fructose intake and delay of acquisition of neonatal reflexes in Wistar female rats

Fructose is a common sweetener found in the daily diet supplemented to many processed and ultra-processed foods and beverages. Consumption of fructose-sweetened beverages has drastically increased in the last decades and is widely associated with metabolic disease, systemic pro-inflammatory status, and adverse transgenerational effects. To date, the impact of maternal fructose intake in brain function of the offspring is less explored. Therefore, the aim of this study was first, to investigate adverse effects in developmental milestones of the progeny of mothers with metabolic syndrome (MetS), induced by ad libitum consumption of a 20% fructose solution, and second to identify possible molecular changes in the nervous system of the newborns associated with maternal fructose intake. Wistar rats were randomly separated into two groups with access to water or fructose (20% w/v in water) for 10 weeks. After MetS was confirmed, dams were mated with control males and continued drinking water or fructose solution during gestation. At postnatal day (PN) 1, a subgroup of offspring of each sex was sacrificed and brains were dissected for oxidative stress and inflammatory status analysis. Changes in the developmental milestones due to maternal fructose consumption were studied (PN3-PN21) in another subgroup of offspring. Sexually dimorphic effects were found on the progeny's acquisition of neurodevelopmental milestones, in brain lipid peroxidation, neuroinflammation, and antioxidative defensive response. Our results suggest that dams' MetS, induced by fructose intake, disrupts brain redox homeostasis in female offspring and affects sensorimotor brain circuitry which may have a translational value for studying neurodevelopmental diseases.

Unbalanced Redox With Autophagy in Cardiovascular Disease

Precise redox balance is essential for the optimum health and physiological function of the human body. Furthermore, an unbalanced redox state is widely believed to be part of numerous diseases, ultimately resulting in death. In this review, we discuss the relationship between redox balance and cardiovascular disease (CVD). In various animal models, excessive oxidative stress has been associated with increased atherosclerotic plaque formation, which is linked to the inflammation status of several cell types. However, various antioxidants can defend against reactive oxidative stress, which is associated with an increased risk of CVD and mortality. The different cardiovascular effects of these antioxidants are presumably due to alterations in the multiple pathways that have been mechanistically linked to accelerated atherosclerotic plaque formation, macrophage activation, and endothelial dysfunction in animal models of CVD, as well as in in vitro cell culture systems. Autophagy is a regulated cell survival mechanism that removes dysfunctional or damaged cellular organelles and recycles the nutrients for the generation of energy. Furthermore, in response to atherogenic stress, such as the generation of reactive oxygen species, oxidized lipids, and inflammatory signaling between cells, autophagy protects against plaque formation. In this review, we characterize the broad spectrum of oxidative stress that influences CVD, summarize the role of autophagy in the content of redox balance-associated pathways in atherosclerosis, and discuss potential therapeutic approaches to target CVD by stimulating autophagy.

Adherence to oxidative balance scores and lower odds of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a case-control study

Evidence has also shown that oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, or in other words, disruption of the oxidant and antioxidant balance, can play an important role in the initiation or progression of NAFLD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between the oxidative balance scores (OBS) and the risk of NAFLD. 552 healthy and 340 patients adult over the age of 18 with NAFLD participated in this case-control research. A validated 168-item quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and indicators of physical activity, obesity, and smoking status were used to assess OBS score. The connection between OBS and NAFLD was discovered using binary logistic regression. The mean (± SD) age and (body mass index) BMI of the study population was 40.22 ± 9.79 years and 29.06 ± 3.92 kg/m², respectively. The mean ± SD of OBS was 41.48 ± 5.23. After adjustment for potential confounders, higher scores of adherence to the OBS conferred a protection for the presence of NAFLD (odds ratio [OR]: 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15-0.49; P for trend < 0.001). The findings of the present study indicate an approximately 80% reduction in the odds of developing NAFLD with higher OBS adherence in the overall population. However, prospective studies are needed to further investigate this association.

Evaluation of mulberry leaves’ hypoglycemic properties and hypoglycemic mechanisms

The effectiveness of herbal medicine in treating diabetes has grown in recent years, but the precise mechanism by which it does so is still unclear to both medical professionals and diabetics. In traditional Chinese medicine, mulberry leaf is used to treat inflammation, colds, and antiviral illnesses. Mulberry leaves are one of the herbs with many medicinal applications, and as mulberry leaf study grows, there is mounting evidence that these leaves also have potent anti-diabetic properties. The direct role of mulberry leaf as a natural remedy in the treatment of diabetes has been proven in several studies and clinical trials. However, because mulberry leaf is a more potent remedy for diabetes, a deeper understanding of how it works is required. The bioactive compounds flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, polyphenols, volatile oils, sterols, amino acids, and a variety of inorganic trace elements and vitamins, among others, have been found to be abundant in mulberry leaves. Among these compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols have a stronger link to diabetes. Of course, trace minerals and vitamins also contribute to blood sugar regulation. Inhibiting alpha glucosidase activity in the intestine, regulating lipid metabolism in the body, protecting pancreatic -cells, lowering insulin resistance, accelerating glucose uptake by target tissues, and improving oxidative stress levels in the body are some of the main therapeutic properties mentioned above. These mechanisms can effectively regulate blood glucose levels. The therapeutic effects of the bioactive compounds found in mulberry leaves on diabetes mellitus and their associated molecular mechanisms are the main topics of this paper’s overview of the state of the art in mulberry leaf research for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Role of Nutrition in the Etiopathogenesis and Prevention of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in a Group of Obese Adults

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is liver damage characterized by an accumulation of triglycerides in hepatocytes of >5% (due to an alteration of the balance of the lipid metabolism in favour of lipogenesis compared to lipolysis) that is not induced by the consumption of alcohol. The pathology includes simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH (steatosis associated with microinflammatory activities), which can evolve in 15% of subjects with hepatic fibrosis to cirrhosis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. The aim of this study is to report the role of macro- and micronutrients in the pathogenesis and prevention of NAFLD in obese subjects. A total of 22 obese or overweight patients with hepatic steatosis were monitored periodically, evaluating their eating habits, fasting glycaemia, lipid picture, liver enzymes, anthropometric parameters, nutrition status, liver ultrasound, oxidative stress, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A statistical analysis shows a significant positive relationship between total cholesterol and the Mediterranean adequacy index (MAI) (r = -0.57; p = 0.005) and a significant negative relationship between ALT transaminases and the MAI (r = -0.56; p = 0.007). Nutrition and diet are important factors in the pathogenesis and prevention of NAFLD. The dietary model, based on the canons of the Mediterranean diet, prevents and reduces the accumulation of fat in hepatocytes. Therefore, in agreement with other studies in the literature, we can state that a dietary model characterized by foods rich in fibre, carotenoids, polyphenols, ω3 fatty acids, folic acid, and numerous other molecules is inversely correlated with the serum levels of ALT transaminases, an enzyme whose level increases when the liver is damaged and before the most obvious symptoms of organ damage appear.

Metabolic Syndrome and Nephrolithiasis; A Cross Sectional Population-based Study on the Baseline Data of the PERSIAN Kavar Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between metabolic syndrome and its components with nephrolithiasis.

METHODS

In current study, 4,901 individuals from the PERSIAN (Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN) Kavar cohort study were included. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the ATP III criteria (2005 revision). The nephrolithiasis was assessed using a structured questionnaire, and ultrasound findings were reviewed in subjects who reported positive history of nephrolithiasis. We applied logistic regression to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

The prevalence of nephrolithiasis and metabolic syndrome was 28.5% and 40.91%, respectively. Almost 31% of the patients with metabolic syndrome had a history of nephrolithiasis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a positive association between metabolic syndrome and nephrolithiasis (OR= 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14-1.49, P<.001) after adjustment age, sex, ethnicity, physical activity, smoking status, and alcohol intake. Furthermore, the relation was higher for elders aged 50 years or more (P for interaction= .016) and Turk Nomad participants (P for interaction= 0.044) than the others. There was also a positive independent association between hypertension (OR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.12-1.48, P<.001) and hypertriglyceridemia (OR= 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01-1.31, P=.033) with nephrolithiasis.

CONCLUSION

In this large sample study, we demonstrate a weak positive association between metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and hypertriglyceridemia with nephrolithiasis.

Obesity and Its Association with Undiagnosed Diabetes Mellitus, High Blood Pressure and Hypercholesterolemia in the Malaysian Adult Population: A National Cross-Sectional Study Using NHMS Data

This study aimed to report the prevalence of obesity, classified using Asian cut-off, and its relationships with undiagnosed diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and hypercholesteremia. We analyzed the nationally representative data from 14,025 Malaysian adults who participated in the NHMS 2015. The relationship between obesity and undiagnosed diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and hypercholesteremia was determined using multivariable logistic regressions, and lifestyle risk factors and sociodemographic characteristics were adjusted. The undiagnosed high blood pressure group showed the highest proportionate of overweight/obese (80.0%, 95% CI: 78.1-81.8) and central obesity (61.8%, 95% CI: 59.3-64.2). Inverse association was observed between underweight with undiagnosed high blood pressure (aOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.26-0.61) and hypercholesterolemia (aOR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.59-0.95) groups. In contrast, positive relationships were shown between overweight/obese and risk of undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (aOR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.31-2.07), high blood pressure (aOR: 3.08, 95% CI: 2.60-3.63), and hypercholesterolemia (aOR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.22-1.53). Likewise, central obesity was positively associated with a risk of undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (aOR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.17-1.67), high blood pressure (aOR: 2.83, 95% CI: 2.45-3.26), and hypercholesterolemia (aOR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.12-1.42). Our findings indicated the importance of periodical health examinations to assess the risk of non-communicable diseases among the general and abdominal obese Malaysian adults.

Lipotoxicity, glucotoxicity and some strategies to protect vascular smooth muscle cell against proliferative phenotype in metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and atherosclerosis through a mechanism that involves vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, lipotoxicity and glucotoxicity. Several molecules found to be increased in MetS, including free fatty acids, fatty acid binding protein 4, leptin, resistin, oxidized lipoprotein particles, and advanced glycation end products, influence VSMC proliferation. Most of these molecules act through their receptors on VSMCs by activating several signaling pathways associated with ROS generation in various cellular compartments. ROS from NADPH-oxidase and mitochondria have been found to promote VSMC proliferation and cell cycle progression. In addition, most of the natural or synthetic substances described in this review, including pharmaceuticals with hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties, attenuate VSMC proliferation by their simultaneous modulation of cell signaling and their scavenging property due to the presence of a phenolic ring in their structure. This review discusses recent data in the literature on the role that several MetS-related molecules and ROS play in the change from contractile to proliferative phenotype of VSMCs. Hence the importance of proposing an appropriate strategy to prevent uncontrolled VSMC proliferation using antioxidants, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic agents.

Therapeutic effects of the gold nanoparticle on obesity-triggered neuroinflammation: a review

Introduction: Obesity is considered a chronic non-communicable disease characterised by excess body fat. In recent years the prevalence of obesity has grown a lot. Individuals with obesity store the excess of nutrients consumed in the form of fat in adipose tissue, and generate an imbalance of this tissue, where there is the secretion of adipocytokines, which contributes to a peripheral and central inflammatory picture, reaching the central nervous system (CNS), generating neuroinflammation. There is still no effective and safe therapy for the treatment of obesity, many of the drugs marketed has serious side effects. Therefore, there is a search for therapies aimed mainly at reducing inflammation.Objective: In this work the possibility of using a new therapeutic option for obesity will be explored, using nanotechnology. Nanotechnology has gained prominence in recent years for being a promising technology for treatment and as a molecule-in-the-light in inflammatory diseases. Gold nanoparticles (GNP) stand out among nanomaterials because they demonstrate anti-inflammatory characteristics by various pathways, and have been widely used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including in the CNS, demonstrating excellent results.Result: Thus, the use of GNP for the treatment of obesity is promising due to the inflammatory state of obesity, thus acting as anti-inflammatory at the peripheral and central levels.

Exposure to Bisphenol A Substitutes, Bisphenol S and Bisphenol F, and Its Association with Developing Obesity and Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Bisphenol A, a well-known endocrine-disrupting chemical, has been replaced with its analogs bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) over the last decade due to health concerns. BPS and BPF are present in relatively high concentrations in different products, such as food products, personal care products, and sales receipts. Both BPS and BPF have similar structural and chemical properties to BPA; therefore, considerable scientific efforts have investigated the safety of their exposure. In this review, we summarize the findings of relevant epidemiological studies investigating the association between urinary concentrations of BPS and/or BPF with the incidence of obesity or diabetes. The results showed that BPS and BPF were detected in many urinary samples at median concentrations ranging from 0.03 to 0.4 µg·L^-1. At this exposure level, BPS median urinary concentrations (0.4 µg·L^-1) were associated with the development of obesity. At a lower exposure level (0.1-0.03 µg·L^-1), two studies showed an association with developing diabetes. For BPF exposure, only one study showed an association with obesity. However, most of the reported studies only assessed BPS exposure levels. Furthermore, we also summarize the findings of experimental studies in vivo and in vitro regarding our aim; results support the possible obesogenic effects/metabolic disorders mediated by BPS and/or BPF exposure. Unexpectedly, BPS may promote worse obesogenic effects than BPA. In addition, the possible mode of action underlying the obesogenic effects of BPS might be attributed to various pathophysiological mechanisms, including estrogenic or androgenic activities, alterations in the gene expression of critical adipogenesis-related markers, and induction of oxidative stress and an inflammatory state. Furthermore, susceptibility to the adverse effects of BPS may be altered by sex differences according to the results of both epidemiological and experimental studies. However, the possible mode of action underlying these sex differences is still unclear. In conclusion, exposure to BPS or BPF may promote the development of obesity and diabetes. Future approaches are highly needed to assess the safety of BPS and BPF regarding their potential effects in promoting metabolic disturbances. Other studies in different populations and settings are highly suggested.

Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Oxidative Stress in a Sample of Patients Recruited in a Dietary Center in a Southern University Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Background and objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effects of alcohol consumption on oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted by analyzing the increase in lipid peroxidation, the reduction of antioxidant defenses and the alteration of the oxidation/antioxidant balance after the administration of ethanol in 25% aqueous solution (v/v) at a concentration of 0.76 g/kg of body weight daily in two doses for 3 days. The changes in oxidative stress indices were investigated by standard methods previously described. Results: Ethanol administration has determined a significant increase in plasma levels of lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), malonilaldehyde (MDA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSH), and a decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH) and GSH/GSSH ratio. Conclusions: In the proposed experimental condition, the excessive and repeated consumption of ethanol causes oxidative damage, as shown by the increase in lipid peroxidation, the reduction of antioxidant defenses and the alteration of the oxidation/antioxidant balance, which, at least in part, are responsible for the harmful effects of excess ethanol.

Separation and purification of antioxidant peptides from purple speckled kidney bean by macroporous adsorption resin and analysis of amino acid composition

The protein hydrolysate of purple speckled kidney bean (PSKB) was used as the raw material in this study, and the antioxidant peptide of the PSKB protein hydrolysate was purified using macroporous resin. The XAD-7HP macroporous resin was selected as the best purification material, and the static adsorption-desorption of the purified PSKB antioxidant peptide was optimized. The optimum static adsorption and desorption conditions were as follows: the adsorption capacity reached 11.93 ± 0.11 mg/ml at pH 7 for 24 h, and the desorption capacity was 5.24 ± 0.04 mg/ml with 60% ethanol for 30 min. Under this condition, the amount of antioxidant peptide obtained by adsorption-desorption was the highest. The optimum process conditions were as follows: the appropriate flow rate was 1 ml/min, and the optimal injection volume was 40 ml. The adsorption amount at this time can reach 12.19 ± 0.15 mg/ml. The components with an elution time of 10-30 min were separated using the reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) technique to obtain three main components, namely, RP₁, RP₂, and RP₃. The DPPH free radical scavenging ability reached 56.26 ± 0.56, 66.42 ± 0.56, and 78.57 ± 0.56%, respectively, which were 36.65, 46.34 ± 0.56, and 54.39 ± 0.56% higher than those before purification. The amino acid sequences of the three components were identified as Phe-Leu-Val-Asp-Arg-Ile, Phe-Leu-Val-Ala-Pro-Asp-Asp, and Lys-Asp-Arg-Val-Ile-Ser-Glu-Leu.

Effects of Resveratrol Against Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats: Role of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a serious health problem associated with an increase in risk factors for hepatic steatosis, which is the most common liver disease today. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effects of resveratrol against metabolic alterations associated with a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD). Thirty-two male rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: control (cont.), metabolic syndrome (MS), resveratrol (Res), and metabolic syndrome treated with resveratrol (MS + Res). Resveratrol was administrated orally at a dose of 30 mg/kg·bw, daily. After 10 weeks, body weight, serum biochemical parameters, hepatic oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, as well as mRNA levels of hepatic genes related to lipid metabolism and insulin signaling were measured. In addition, the liver was examined histopathologically to detect lipid deposition. Increased body weight, hepatic dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hepatic insulin resistance, hepatic oxidative and inflammatory stress conditions, upregulation of mRNA expression level of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1-c (SREBP1-c), and downregulation of mRNA expression levels of peroxisome proliferated activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and insulin receptor substrate-2 (IR-S2) were all observed in the MS rats. Hepatic steatosis was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin and Oil Red O staining. Administration of resveratrol reduced liver steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammatory state. Also, it improved lipid profile as well as insulin sensitivity and reverted alterations in hepatic mRNA expression levels of the tested genes. Based on these findings, resveratrol could be proposed as a therapeutic approach for MS prevention.

Blood and Urinary Biomarkers of Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clustering of at least three of the following five medical conditions: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high serum triglycerides, and low serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Antipsychotic (AP)-induced MetS (AIMetS) is the most common adverse drug reaction (ADR) of psychiatric pharmacotherapy. Herein, we review the results of studies of blood (serum and plasma) and urinary biomarkers as predictors of AIMetS in patients with schizophrenia (Sch). We reviewed 1440 studies examining 38 blood and 19 urinary metabolic biomarkers, including urinary indicators involved in the development of AIMetS. Among the results, only positive associations were revealed. However, at present, it should be recognized that there is no consensus on the role of any particular urinary biomarker of AIMetS. Evaluation of urinary biomarkers of the development of MetS and AIMetS, as one of the most common concomitant pathological conditions in the treatment of patients with psychiatric disorders, may provide a key to the development of strategies for personalized prevention and treatment of the condition, which is considered a complication of AP therapy for Sch in clinical practice.

Persimmon Water Extract Suppresses Hepatic Lipotoxicity by Regulating Lipid Metabolites

This study was performed to investigate the effects of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hepatic lipotoxicity. The compounds of persimmon water extract (PWE) were identified as gallic acid, glucogallin, 1-O-Galloyl-(2-O-acetyl)-glu, and trihydroxy-octadecadienoic acid. The PWE was ingested by C57BL/6 mice with an HFD for 8 weeks. The PWE improved glucose tolerance and suppressed weight gain by inhibiting increases in the weight of liver and adipose tissues. The results of serum biomarker analysis showed that PWE suppressed biomarkers such as liver injury and dyslipidemia. In ex vivo tests, reduction of oxidative stress and improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction were confirmed in the liver of PWE groups. In a molecular study, it was confirmed that PWE decreased lipid accumulation, insulin resistance, inflammation, and apoptosis in the liver. Finally, in a metabolite analysis of liver tissue using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS), it was confirmed that PWE has an effect on lipid metabolism. In particular, PWE reduced phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (lysoPCs). Notably, it is presumed that the reduction of lysoPCs and PCs in the PWE group is related to the improvement of liver dysfunction due to lipotoxicity.

Effect of Acute Intake of Fermented Orange Juice on Fasting and Postprandial Glucose Metabolism, Plasma Lipids and Antioxidant Status in Healthy Human

Higher postprandial plasma glucose and lipemia, and oxidative and inflammatory responses, are considered important cardiovascular risk factors. Fermentation of fruits has generated products with high concentrations of bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential acute effects that fermented orange juice (FOJ) can exert in healthy humans by modulating postprandial response, and inflammatory/antioxidant status, compared with orange juice (OJ). Nine volunteers were recruited for a randomized, controlled, and crossover study. Participants ingested 500 mL of FOJ. At 4 h post intake, subjects consumed a standardized mixed meal. Blood samples were collected at 0-8 h hours post intake. The subjects repeated the protocol with OJ following a 2-week washout period. Glucose and lipid metabolism, plasma antioxidant capacity (ORAC, FRAP), endogenous antioxidants (albumin, bilirubin, uric acid), C-reactive protein and fibrinogen were measured in plasma samples. There was a trend of a smaller increase in LDL-C after FOJ intake compared with OJ, a significant decrease in apo-B and significant increase in ORAC. The glycemic and triglyceride response of meal was attenuated with FOJ. No differences were obtained in endogenous antioxidants and inflammation status between the treatments. The acute consumption of FOJ could play a protective role against cardiovascular risk factors.

Relationship between hyperuricemia with deposition and sexual dysfunction in males and females

PURPOSE

The association between gout, the most common crystal arthropathy, and sexual dysfunctions has often been investigated by studies in the last decades. Despite the presence of shared risk factors and comorbidities and the possible effects on sexual health of long-term gout complications, awareness of this association is severely lacking and the pathogenetic mechanisms have only partially been identified. In the present review, we aimed to investigate the current evidence regarding the potential mechanisms linking sexual dysfunctions and gout.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search within PubMed was performed to provide a summary of currently available evidence regarding the association between gout and sexual dysfunctions.

RESULTS

Gout and sexual dysfunctions share several risk factors, including diabesity, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and peripheral vascular disease. Gout flares triggered by intense inflammatory responses feature severe pain and disability, resulting in worse sexual function, and some, but not all, treatments can also impair sexual health. Long-term gout complications can result in persistent pain and disability due to joint deformity, fractures, or nerve compression, with negative bearing on sexual function. The presence of low-grade inflammation impairs both sex steroids synthesis and endothelial function, further advancing sexual dysfunctions. The psychological burden of gout is another issue negatively affecting sexual health.

CONCLUSIONS

According to currently available evidence, several biological and psychological mechanisms link sexual dysfunctions and gout. Addressing risk factors and providing adequate treatment could potentially have beneficial effects on both conditions. Appropriate clinical evaluation and multidisciplinary approach are recommended to improve patient care.

Oxidative stress in obesity and insulin resistance

Since obesity is one of the main factors in the development of insulin resistance (IR) and is also associated with increased oxidative stress (OxS) rate, this study aims to review the published literature to collate and provide a comprehensive summary of the studies related to the status of the OxS in the pathogenesis of obesity and related IR. OxS represents an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and the capacity of the antioxidant defense system (AOS) to neutralize RONS. A steady-state of RONS level is maintained through endogenous enzymatic and non-enzymatic AOS components. Three crucial enzymes, which suppress the formation of free radicals, are superoxide dismutases, catalases, and glutathione peroxidases. The second line of AOS includes non-enzymatic components such as vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q, and glutathione which neutralizes free radicals by donating electrons to RONS. Emerging evidence suggests that high RONS levels contribute to the progression of OxS in obesity by activating inflammatory pathways and thus leading to the development of pathological states, including IR. In addition, decreased level of AOS components in obesity increases the susceptibility to oxidative tissue damage and further progression of its comorbidities. Increased OxS in accumulated adipose tissue should be an imperative target for developing new therapies in obesity-related IR.

Pathophysiological Commonality Between Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Metabolic Syndrome: Role of Corticotropin-releasing Factor-Toll-like Receptor 4-Proinflammatory Cytokine Signaling

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) displays chronic abdominal pain with altered defecation. Most of the patients develop visceral hypersensitivity possibly resulting from impaired gut barrier and altered gut microbiota. We previously demonstrated that colonic hyperpermeability with visceral hypersensitivity in animal IBS models, which is mediated via corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-proinflammatory cytokine signaling. CRF impairs gut barrier via TLR4. Leaky gut induces bacterial translocation resulting in dysbiosis, and increases lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Activation of TLR4 by LPS increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which activate visceral sensory neurons to induce visceral hypersensitivity. LPS also activates CRF receptors to further increase gut permeability. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, and recently several researchers suggest the possibility that impaired gut barrier and dysbiosis with low-grade systemic inflammation are involved in MS. Moreover, TLR4-proinflammatory cytokine contributes to the development of insulin resistance and obesity. Thus, the existence of pathophysiological commonality between IBS and MS is expected. This review discusses the potential mechanisms of IBS and MS with reference to gut barrier and microbiota, and explores the possibility of existence of pathophysiological link between these diseases with a focus on CRF, TLR4, and proinflammatory cytokine signaling. We also review epidemiological data supporting this possibility, and discuss the potential of therapeutic application of the drugs used for MS to IBS treatment. This notion may pave the way for exploring novel therapeutic approaches for these disorders.

Antioxidant-Rich Dietary Intervention Improves Cardiometabolic Profiles and Arterial Stiffness in Elderly Koreans with Metabolic Syndrome

PURPOSE

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic metabolic diseases. This study investigated the effect of the antioxidant-rich dietary intervention on oxidative stress, metabolic parameters, and arterial stiffness in elderly Koreans with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-one subjects with MetS were enrolled and randomly divided into dietary intervention group and control group. Subjects in the intervention group received three meal boxes prepared with antioxidant-rich ingredients every day for 4 weeks, and subjects in the control group maintained their usual diets. Anthropometric and various biochemical parameters related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and MetS were assessed. Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and fat measurement using computed tomography were also conducted before and after 4 weeks.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in waist circumference, visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio, lipid peroxidation, oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, lipid parameters, advanced glycation end products, and baPWV between before and after the study in the experimental group (all p<0.05). Significant inter-group differences were observed between the experimental and control group in terms of the differences in body mass index, waist circumference, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, protein carboxylation, lipid peroxidation, oxLDL, blood pressure, lipid parameters, and baPWV between before and after the study (all p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Antioxidant-rich dietary intervention for a 4-week period ameliorated the state of oxidative stress and improved the components of MetS including central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and arterial stiffness in elderly Koreans with MetS.

Relationship Analysis of Inorganic Arsenic Exposure and Metabolic Syndrome Based on Propensity Score Matching in Xinjiang, China

PURPOSE

The role of inorganic arsenic (iAs) in the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains unclear. This investigation focused on the effect of iAs exposure on MetS and whether the results are consistent in different subgroups.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The present study was conducted on 629 men and 616 women aged 35-70 years and living in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. The 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was adopted to regulate the confounding factors, and the multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the relationship between urinary iAs and MetS.

RESULTS

The median content of urinary iAs was examined as 2.20 μg/dL (interquartile range: 1.30-3.20 μg/dL), and the MetS prevalence reached 23.69% (295 cases/950 participants). After the confounding factors were adjusted, the ORs (95% CIs) for MetS from the minimal to the maximum urinary iAs quartiles reached 1.171 (0.736,1.863), 1.568 (1.008, 2.440) and 2.011 (1.296, 3.120), respectively (referencing 1.00) (P for trend=0.001). After the PSM, the urinary iAs content still plays a potential prediction role in MetS (P for trend=0.011). In addition, as revealed from the subgroup analysis, the urinary iAs content was a predictor of MetS in the female patients, whereas it did not serve as a significant predictor of MetS in the male patients (P for interaction<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The increased urinary iAs content was associated with the increased prevalence of MetS in Chinese population. More attention should be paid to female urinary iAs content to avoid the high prevalence of MetS.

“Obesity and Insulin Resistance” Is the Component of the Metabolic Syndrome Most Strongly Associated with Oxidative Stress

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is not a homogeneous entity, but this term refers to the coexistence of factors that increase the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There are different versions of the criteria for the diagnosis of MS, which makes the population of patients diagnosed with MS heterogeneous. Research to date shows that MS is associated with oxidative stress (OS), but it is unclear which MS component is most strongly associated with OS. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between the parameters of OS and the presence of individual elements of MS in young adults, as well as to identify the components of MS by means of principal components analysis (PCA) and to investigate how the parameters of OS correlate with the presence of individual components. The study included 724 young adults with or without a family history of coronary heart disease (population of the MAGNETIC study). Blood samples were taken from the participants of the study to determine peripheral blood counts, biochemical parameters, and selected parameters of OS. In addition, blood pressure and anthropometric parameters were measured. In subjects with MS, significantly lower activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper- and zinc-containing SOD (CuZnSOD), and manganese-containing SOD (MnSOD) were found, along with significantly higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and significantly lower concentration of thiol groups per gram of protein (PSH). We identified three components of MS by means of PCA: “Obesity and insulin resistance”, “Dyslipidemia”, and “Blood pressure”, and showed the component “Obesity and insulin resistance” to have the strongest relationship with OS. In conclusion, we documented significant differences in some parameters of OS between young adults with and without MS. We showed that “Obesity and insulin resistance” is the most important component of MS in terms of relationship with OS.

Biological Functions and Activities of Rice Bran as a Functional Ingredient: A Review

Rice bran (RB) is a nutrient-rich by-product of the rice milling process. It consists of pericarp, seed coat, nucellus, and aleurone layer. RB is a rich source of a protein, fat, dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals (mainly oryzanols and tocopherols), and is currently mostly used as animal feed. Various studies have revealed the beneficial health effects of RB, which result from its functional components including dietary fiber, rice bran protein, and gamma-oryzanol. The health effects of RB including antidiabetic, lipid-lowering, hypotensive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, while its consumption also improves bowel function. These health benefits have drawn increasing attention to RB in food applications and as a nutraceutical product to mitigate metabolic risk factors in humans. This review therefore focuses on RB and its health benefits.

Oxidative Stress in Takotsubo Syndrome-Is It Essential for an Acute Attack? Indirect Evidences Support Multisite Impact Including the Calcium Overload-Energy Failure Hypothesis

Indirect evidences in reviews and case reports on Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) support the fact that the existence of oxidative stress (OS) might be its common feature in the pre-acute stage. The sources of OS are exogenous (environmental factors including pharmacological and toxic influences) and endogenous, the combination of both may be present, and they are being discussed in detail. OS is associated with several pathological conditions representing TTS comorbidities and triggers. The dominant source of OS electrones are mitochondria. Our analysis of drug therapy related to acute TTS shows many interactions, e.g., cytostatics and glucocorticoids with mitochondrial cytochrome P450 and other enzymes important for OS. One of the most frequently discussed mechanisms in TTS is the effect of catecholamines on myocardium. Yet, their metabolic influence is neglected. OS is associated with the oxidation of catecholamines leading to the synthesis of their oxidized forms - aminochromes. Under pathological conditions, this pathway may dominate. There are evidences of interference between OS, catecholamine/aminochrome effects, their metabolism and antioxidant protection. The OS offensive may cause fast depletion of antioxidant protection including the homocystein-methionine system, whose activity decreases with age. The alteration of effector subcellular structures (mitochondria, sarco/endoplasmic reticulum) and subsequent changes in cellular energetics and calcium turnover may also occur and lead to the disruption of cellular function, including neurons and cardiomyocytes. On the organ level (nervous system and heart), neurocardiogenic stunning may occur. The effects of OS correspond to the effect of high doses of catecholamines in the experiment. Intensive OS might represent "conditio sine qua non" for this acute clinical condition. TTS might be significantly more complex pathology than currently perceived so far.

Are people with metabolically healthy obesity really healthy? A prospective cohort study of 381,363 UK Biobank participants

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

People with obesity and a normal metabolic profile are sometimes referred to as having 'metabolically healthy obesity' (MHO). However, whether this group of individuals are actually 'healthy' is uncertain. This study aims to examine the associations of MHO with a wide range of obesity-related outcomes.

METHODS

This is a population-based prospective cohort study of 381,363 UK Biobank participants with a median follow-up of 11.2 years. MHO was defined as having a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² and at least four of the six metabolically healthy criteria. Outcomes included incident diabetes and incident and fatal atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD), heart failure (HF) and respiratory diseases.

RESULTS

Compared with people who were not obese at baseline, those with MHO had higher incident HF (HR 1.60; 95% CI 1.45, 1.75) and respiratory disease (HR 1.20; 95% CI 1.16, 1.25) rates, but not higher ASCVD. The associations of MHO were generally weaker for fatal outcomes and only significant for all-cause (HR 1.12; 95% CI 1.04, 1.21) and HF mortality rates (HR 1.44; 95% CI 1.09, 1.89). However, when compared with people who were metabolically healthy without obesity, participants with MHO had higher rates of incident diabetes (HR 4.32; 95% CI 3.83, 4.89), ASCVD (HR 1.18; 95% CI 1.10, 1.27), HF (HR 1.76; 95% CI 1.61, 1.92), respiratory diseases (HR 1.28; 95% CI 1.24, 1.33) and all-cause mortality (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.14, 1.31). The results with a 5 year landmark analysis were similar.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Weight management should be recommended to all people with obesity, irrespective of their metabolic status, to lower risk of diabetes, ASCVD, HF and respiratory diseases. The term 'MHO' should be avoided as it is misleading and different strategies for risk stratification should be explored.

Pharmacological Properties and Health Benefits of Eugenol: A Comprehensive Review

The biologically active phytochemicals are sourced from edible and medicinally important plants and are important molecules being used for the formulation of thousands of drugs. These phytochemicals have great benefits against many ailments particularly the inflammatory diseases or oxidative stress-mediated chronic diseases. Eugenol (EUG) is a versatile naturally occurring molecule as phenolic monoterpenoid and frequently found in essential oils in a wide range of plant species. EUG bears huge industrial applications particularly in pharmaceutics, dentistry, flavoring of foods, agriculture, and cosmeceutics. It is being focused recently due to its great potential in preventing several chronic conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared EUG as a nonmutant and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) molecule. The available literature about pharmacological activities of EUG shows remarkable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties and has a significant effect on human health. The current manuscript summarizes the pharmacological characteristics of EUG and its potential health benefits.

The Interplay between S-Glutathionylation and Phosphorylation of Cardiac Troponin I and Myosin Binding Protein C in End-Stage Human Failing Hearts

Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance between the antioxidant defense system and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). At low levels, ROS are involved in the regulation of redox signaling for cell protection. However, upon chronical increase in oxidative stress, cell damage occurs, due to protein, DNA and lipid oxidation. Here, we investigated the oxidative modifications of myofilament proteins, and their role in modulating cardiomyocyte function in end-stage human failing hearts. We found altered maximum Ca²⁺-activated tension and Ca²⁺ sensitivity of force production of skinned single cardiomyocytes in end-stage human failing hearts compared to non-failing hearts, which was corrected upon treatment with reduced glutathione enzyme. This was accompanied by the increased oxidation of troponin I and myosin binding protein C, and decreased levels of protein kinases A (PKA)- and C (PKC)-mediated phosphorylation of both proteins. The Ca²⁺ sensitivity and maximal tension correlated strongly with the myofilament oxidation levels, hypo-phosphorylation, and oxidative stress parameters that were measured in all the samples. Furthermore, we detected elevated titin-based myocardial stiffness in HF myocytes, which was reversed by PKA and reduced glutathione enzyme treatment. Finally, many oxidative stress and inflammation parameters were significantly elevated in failing hearts compared to non-failing hearts, and corrected upon treatment with the anti-oxidant GSH enzyme. Here, we provide evidence that the altered mechanical properties of failing human cardiomyocytes are partially due to phosphorylation, S-glutathionylation, and the interplay between the two post-translational modifications, which contribute to the development of heart failure.

National digestive disease specialists survey on cardiovascular risk management in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in spanish hospitals

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of mortality among non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. The aim was to explore the level of knowledge and clinical management of cardiovascular risk (CVR) in NAFLD patients by Digestive Disease specialists.

METHODS

An anonymous web-based survey was designed with 44 close-ended questions, divided into five sections, that were based on current guidelines on CVD prevention. Between November 2019 and January 2020, Digestive Disease specialists from Spanish hospitals were invited to participate in this survey via email and Twitter. Student's t, chi-square and Fishers' exact tests, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

208 clinicians completed the survey. Most respondents (83.2%) believe that NAFLD is an independent risk factor for CVD, especially in the presence of NASH and fibrosis. Personal history of CVDs and cardiovascular risk-related comorbidities are collected by more than 75% of respondents. However, less than 17% perform an elementary physical examination to address the CVR, except weight which is evaluated by 69.8%. Over 54% of respondents do not perform or request any supplementary tests for CVR assessment, and only 10.2% use specific calculators. Furthermore, 54.3% spend less than 5 minutes giving lifestyle advice, and more than 52% do not start drug treatment after a recent diagnosis of any cardiovascular comorbidity. Only 25.6% have a multidisciplinary Unit for metabolic comorbidities in their hospitals, although 89% of the respondents would support the implementation of this Unit.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular risk management in daily clinical practice by Digestive Disease specialists in Spain remains suboptimal.

Ameliorating effects of metabolic syndrome with the consumption of rich-bioactive compounds fruits from Brazilian Cerrado: a narrative review

Evidence suggests that bioactive compounds present in fruits and vegetables, including carotenoids, polyphenols, and phytosterols, may have beneficial effects against the development of obesity and other diseases. The fruits of the Brazilian Cerrado are rich in biologically active compounds but are underexplored by the population being used only locally dietary consumption. The objective of this review is to direct attention to the bioactive compounds already elucidated for the fruits of "Cerrado" cashew (Anacadium othanianum Rizz.), baru almond (Dipteryx alata Vogel), cagaita (Eugenia dysenterica DC.), "Cerrado" pear (Eugenia klotzschiana Berg), mangaba (Hancornia speciosa), and pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb), demonstrating possible metabolic effects of the consumption of these fruits on the metabolic syndrome and its risk factors. Studies have shown that Cerrado native fruits have a high content of bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds, which also demonstrate high antioxidant capacity and may be related to the protective effect in metabolic syndrome-related diseases by act as inhibitors in various processes in lipid metabolism and glucose transport. Although more scientific evidence is still needed, the consumption of native fruits from the Cerrado seems to be a promising strategy which -along with other strategies such as nutritional therapy- can ameliorate the effects of the metabolic syndrome.

Understanding the role of oxidative stress in the incidence of metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea

BACKGROUND

Understanding the causes and risk factors of metabolic syndrome is important for promoting population health. Oxidative stress has been associated with metabolic syndrome, and also obstructive sleep apnea. These are two diseases which have common prognostic characteristics for heart disease. The aim of this study was to examine the role of oxidative stress in the concurrent presence of metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea in a working population.

METHODS

Participants were 163 artisan bakers in Shahroud, Iran, routinely exposed to significant heat stress and other oxidative stress indicators on a daily basis as part of their work. Using a cross-sectional design, data relevant to determining metabolic syndrome status according to International Diabetes Federation criteria, and the presence of obstructive sleep apnea according to the STOP-Bang score, was collected. Analyses included hierarchical binary logistic regression to yield predictors of the two diseases.

RESULTS

Hierarchical binary logistic regression showed that oxidative stress - alongside obesity, no regular exercise, and smoking - was an independent predictor of metabolic syndrome, but not obstructive sleep apnea. Participants who were obese were 28 times more likely to have metabolic syndrome (OR 28.59, 95% CI 4.91-63.02) and 44 times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea (OR 44.48, 95% CI 4.91-403.28). Participants meeting metabolic syndrome criteria had significantly higher levels of malondialdehyde (p <  0.05) than those who did not. No difference in oxidative stress index levels were found according to obstructive sleep apnea status.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that oxidative stress contributes to the onset of metabolic syndrome, and that obstructive sleep apnea is involved in oxidative stress. Whilst obesity, exercise, and smoking remain important targets for reducing the incidence of metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea, policies to control risks of prolonged exposure to oxidative stress are also relevant in occupations where such environmental conditions exist.

Telomere Length and Oxidative Stress and Its Relation with Metabolic Syndrome Components in the Aging

Simple Summary

A link between telomere length and some age-related diseases has been identified, including metabolic syndrome. So far, there is no mechanism to explain the origin or cause of telomere shortening in this syndrome; however, oxidative stress is a constant factor. Therefore, we reviewed scientific evidence that supported the association between oxidative stress and telomere length dynamics, also examining how each of the metabolic syndrome components individually affects the length. In this regard, there is strong scientific evidence that an increase in the number of metabolic syndrome components is associated with a shorter telomere length, oxidative damage at the lipid and DNA level, and inflammation, as well as its other components, such as obesity, hyperglycemia, and hypertension, while for dyslipidemia, there is a little more discrepancy. The difficulty for the correct treatment of metabolic syndrome lies in its multifactorial nature. Hence, there is a need to carry out more studies on healthy lifestyles during aging to prevent and reduce oxidative damage and telomere wear during aging, and consequently the progression of chronic degenerative diseases, thus improving the living conditions of older people.

Abstract

A great amount of scientific evidence supports that Oxidative Stress (OxS) can contribute to telomeric attrition and also plays an important role in the development of certain age-related diseases, among them the metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is characterised by clinical and biochemical alterations such as obesity, dyslipidaemia, arterial hypertension, hyperglycaemia, and insulin resistance, all of which are considered as risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases, which are associated in turn with an increase of OxS. In this sense, we review scientific evidence that supports the association between OxS with telomere length (TL) dynamics and the relationship with MetS components in aging. It was analysed whether each MetS component affects the telomere length separately or if they all affect it together. Likewise, this review provides a summary of the structure and function of telomeres and telomerase, the mechanisms of telomeric DNA repair, how telomere length may influence the fate of cells or be linked to inflammation and the development of age-related diseases, and finally, how the lifestyles can affect telomere length.

ROS Modulating Effects of Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Polyphenols on Obese Adipocyte Hypertrophy and Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction

Oxidative stress and dysregulated adipocytokine secretion accompanying hypertrophied adipose tissue induce chronic inflammation, which leads to vascular endothelial dysfunction. The present study investigated the ability of anthocyanin (ACN) and non-anthocyanin polyphenol (PP) fractions from lingonberry fruit to mitigate adipose tissue hypertrophy and endothelial dysfunction using 3T3-L1 adipocytes and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). This study showed that the PP fraction decreased intracellular ROS generation in hypertrophied adipocytes by enhancing antioxidant enzyme expression (SOD2) and inhibiting oxidant enzyme expression (NOX4, iNOS). Moreover, PP and ACN fractions reduced triglyceride content in adipocytes accompanied by downregulation of the expression of lipogenic genes such as aP2, FAS, and DAGT1. Treatment with both fractions modulated the mRNA expression and protein secretion of key adipokines in hypertrophied adipocytes. Expression and secretion of leptin and adiponectin were, respectively, down- and upregulated. Furthermore, PP and ACN fractions alleviated the inflammatory response in TNF-α-induced HUVECs by inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (IL-6, IL-1β) and adhesion molecules (VCAM-1, ICAM-1, SELE). The obtained results suggest that consuming polyphenol-rich lingonberry fruit may help prevent and treat obesity and endothelial dysfunction due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

The role of oxidative stress in the development of obesity and obesity-related metabolic disorders

Obesity is a serious medical condition, defined as excessive accumulation of fat. Abdominal fat is recognized as the major risk for obesity related diseases such as: hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, stroke, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease etc. Fat accumulation is also related to pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory states. Recently published articles suggest that oxidative stress may be a link between obesity and related complications. Adiposity leads to increased oxidative stress via several multiple biochemical processes such as superoxide generation through the action of NADPH oxidase, glyceraldehyde auto-oxidation, oxidative phosphorylation, protein kinase C (PKC) activation, and polyol and hexosamine pathways. On the other hand, oxidative stress plays a causative role in the development of obesity, by stimulating the deposition of adipose tissue, including preadipocyte proliferation, adipocyte differentiation and growth. Exercise-induced weight loss can improve the redox state by modulating both oxidative stress and antioxidant promoters, which reduce endothelial dysfunction and inflammation.

Protective Role of Picralima nitida Seed Extract in High-Fat High-Fructose-Fed Rats

Picralima nitida is a therapeutic herb used in ethnomedicine for the management of several disease conditions including diabetes. This study examined the potential palliative effect of aqueous seed extract of Picralima nitida (APN) on dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and the expression of some metabolic genes in high-fat high-fructose-fed rats. Experimental rats (2 months old) were fed a control diet or a high-fat diet with 25% fructose (HFHF diet) in their drinking water for nine weeks. APN was administered orally during the last four weeks. Anthropometric and antioxidant parameters, lipid profile, plasma glucose, and insulin levels and the relative expression of some metabolic genes were assessed. APN caused a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in weight gained, body mass index, insulin resistance, plasma glucose, and insulin levels. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was significantly increased (P < 0.05), while triacylglycerol, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, cardiac index, atherogenic index, coronary artery index, and malondialdehyde levels in plasma and liver samples were also significantly decreased (P < 0.05) by APN at all experimental doses when compared to the group fed with an HFHF diet only. APN also significantly (P < 0.05) upregulated the relative expression of glucokinase, carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1), and leptin at 400 mg/kg body weight when compared to the group fed with an HFHF diet only. This study showed that APN alleviated dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and oxidant effect associated with the intake of a high-fat high-fructose diet.

Protective Effects of a Discontinuous Treatment with Alpha-Lipoic Acid in Obesity-Related Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction, in Rats

Obesity induces hemodynamic and humoral changes that are associated with functional and structural cardiac remodeling, which ultimately result in the development of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In recent years, pharmacological studies in patients with HFpEF were mostly unsatisfactory. In these conditions, alternative new therapeutic approaches are necessary. The aim of our study was (1) to assess the effects of obesity on heart function in an experimental model and (2) to evaluate the efficacy of an alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) antioxidant treatment. Sprague-Dawley rats (7 weeks old) were either included in the control group (n = 6) or subjected to abdominal aortic banding (AAB) and divided into three subgroups, depending on their diet: standard (AAB + SD, n = 8), hypecaloric (AAB + HD, n = 8) and hypecaloric with discontinuous ALA treatment (AAB + HD + ALA, n = 9). Body weight (BW), glycemia, echocardiography parameters and plasma hydroperoxides were monitored throughout the study. After 36 weeks, plasma adiposity (leptin and adiponectin) and inflammation (IL-6 and TNF-alpha) markers, together with B-type natriuretic peptide and oxidative stress markers (end-products of lipid peroxidation and endogenous antioxidant systems) were assessed. Moreover, cardiac fiber diameters were measured. In our experiment, diet-induced obesity generated cardiometabolic disturbances, and in association with pressure-overload induced by AAB, it precipitated the onset of heart failure, cardiac hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, while producing a pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory plasmatic status. In relationship with its antioxidant effects, the chronic ALA-discontinuous treatment prevented BW gain and decreased metabolic and cardiac perturbations, confirming its protective effects on the cardiovascular system.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and pancreatic islet β-cell failure (Review)

Pancreatic β-cells are the only source of insulin in humans. Mitochondria uses pyruvate to produce ATP as an intermediate link between glucose intake and insulin secretion in β-cells, in a process known as glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Previous studies have demonstrated that GSIS is negatively regulated by various factors in the mitochondria, including tRNA^Leu mutations, high p58 expression, reduced nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase activity, abnormal levels of uncoupling proteins and reduced expression levels of transcription factors A, B1 and B2. Additionally, oxidative stress damages mitochondria and impairs antioxidant defense mechanisms, leading to the increased production of reactive oxygen species, which induces β-cell dysfunction. Inflammation in islets can also damage β-cell physiology. Inflammatory cytokines trigger the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria via the NF-κB pathway. The present review examined the potential factors underlying mitochondrial dysfunction and their association with islet β-cell failure, which may offer novel insights regarding future strategies for the preservation of mitochondrial function and enhancement of antioxidant activity for individuals with diabetes mellitus.