Advances in understanding the interrelations between leptin resistance and obesity

Resveratrol Prevents Weight Gain, Counteracts Visceral Adipose Tissue Dysfunction, and Improves Hypothalamic Leptin Sensitivity in Diet-Induced Obese Rats

In obesity, increased adipocyte size is associated with metabolic complications, while elevated adipocyte numbers are considered a protective mechanism against metabolic disturbances. Adipose tissue dysfunction leads to decreased leptin sensitivity and disrupted energy balance regulation. Resveratrol (RSV), a bioactive compound known for potential health benefits, including obesity-related disorder prevention, has unclear modulatory effects on adipocyte dysfunction and leptin signaling in established obesity. This study investigated the impact of RSV on adiposity and hypothalamic leptin sensitivity in obesity. Rats were fed a cafeteria diet for 9 weeks and subsequently supplemented with different doses of RSV for 22 days. The 200 mg/kg RSV dose reduced leptin concentrations, body weight gain, and body fat mass in obese animals, while mitigating adipocyte hypertrophy and promoting adipocyte hyperplasia in the retroperitoneal fat depot. RSV also improved hypothalamic leptin sensitivity, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the benefits of RSV consumption for obesity-related disorders.

Anti-Obesity Potential of Barley Sprouts in Dog Diets and Their Impact on the Gut Microbiota

Barley sprouts, the germinated and grown leaves of barley, contain various bioactive compounds, including policosanol, saponarin, and lutonarin. The ingestion of barley sprouts may benefit canine weight management, potentially owing to the anti-obesity properties of bioactive compounds. However, there is limited evidence on the efficacy and safety of barley sprout supplementation in dogs. Therefore, through this study, we assessed the impact of barley-sprout-supplemented diet on body weight and health markers in healthy adult beagles over a 16-week period. The results showed a 7.2% reduction in body weight in dogs fed the barley sprout diet. Hematology, complete blood cell count, and blood biochemistry analyses confirmed that all parameters remained within normal ranges, with no significant differences observed between the control and experimental groups. Although the levels of IFN-γ, IL-6, and insulin remained stable, leptin, a hormone associated with body fat, significantly decreased. Further analysis of alterations in the gut microbiota following barley sprout supplementation revealed no significant differences between the control and experimental groups with respect to alpha and beta diversity analysis. The shift at the phylum level, with a decrease in Firmicutes and an increase in Bacteroidetes, resulted in a reduced Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Additionally, the abundance of the Ruminococcus gnavus group was high in the experimental group. Functional predictions indicated an enhancement in carbohydrate, amino acid, and cofactor and vitamin metabolism. These findings suggest that a barley sprouts diet is safe for dogs and may offer benefits for weight management through favorable alterations in body weight, hormone levels, and gut microbiota composition.

Leptin receptor downregulation in the carotid body treats obesity-induced hypertension

Obesity and comorbid sleep disordered breathing (SDB) lead to high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality via multiple mechanisms including hypertension. Obesity also leads to high levels of leptin, which is produced in adipocytes. Increased leptin levels have also been implicated in increased sympathetic activity and the pathogenesis of hypertension in obesity. However, mechanisms for the effects of leptin on blood pressure are unclear. The carotid bodies (CB) express leptin receptor (Leprb), and diet-induced obesity (DIO) increases Leprb expression levels, but the mechanisms and consequences of leptin action in CB are poorly understood. We hypothesize that leptin signaling in CB in obesity leads to hypertension, which can be treated by Leprb knockdown specifically in CB. DIO male and female mice and lean male C57BL/6J mice were implanted with telemetry in the left femoral artery for continuous blood pressure monitoring. The adenoviral vectors carrying antisense RNA, Ad-LepR shRNA or Ad-scrambled control shRNA, were administered locally to the CB region. Blood pressure measurements were performed at baseline and 9-11 days after CB infection with the adenoviral vector. DIO male mice showed increased blood pressure compared with lean males and DIO females. Ad-LepR shRNA induced a twofold decrease in Leprb mRNA level in CB and abolished obesity-induced hypertension. Leprb knockdown was particularly effective during the light phase, when animals were predominantly asleep, decreasing mean arterial pressure by 8.5 mmHg. Control shRNA had no effect on DIO-induced hypertension. We conclude that inhibition of Leprb in the carotid bodies abolished obesity-induced hypertension.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Obesity and comorbid sleep apnea are key predisposing factors to hypertension. Obesity increases circulating leptin levels and hyperleptinemia may contribute to hypertension but mechanisms are not clear. Here, we have shown that knockdown of the leptin receptor LepRb in the carotid body decreased blood pressure and treated hypertension in diet-induced obese mice. Thus, we identified a novel mechanism of obesity hypertension and a novel drug target, LepRb in the carotid body.

Walnut extract protects against hepatic inflammation and toxicity induced by a high-fat diet

A high-fat diet (HFD) is one of the main causes of obesity and metabolic diseases. The liver is particularly affected by HFD causing metabolic dysfunction associated with fatty liver disease. Therefore, different strategies are used to mitigate the negative effects of HFD. This study aimed to assess the protective effects of walnut extract against HFD-induced toxicity in mice. The mice were fed HFD and walnut extract alone or in combination. The walnut extract was analyzed for composition using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Serum lipid profile; liver histology; hepatic antioxidants such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), lipid peroxidation (TBARS), and reduced glutathione (GSH); inflammatory markers like IL-6 and TNF-α; and phospholipids were determined. Results showed that phenolic acids, epicatechin, catechin, benzaldehyde, and juglone were the main constituents in the extract. The HFD group showed increased hepatic fat accumulation as evidenced by biochemical and histopathological examinations compared to the control animals. The HFD group mice also showed increased body and cardiac weights, modified lipid profiles, decreased antioxidant status, and increased levels of hepatic inflammatory markers. The weights of the body and heart, lipid profiles, antioxidant contents (CAT, SOD, GSH-Px, TBARS, and GSH), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) were all normalized by consuming walnut extract. Similarly, the HFD group had significantly high amounts of hepatic lipase, phospholipid, and lysophospholipid levels, which were improved by walnut extract. In conclusion, walnut extract has been shown to play a unique role in promoting the recovery of liver damage caused by a high-fat diet.

Navigating the Depths of Cardiovascular Effects on Submariners

The environment of the submariner is inherently endowed with several health risk factors, namely confinement, inactivity, caloric excess, and circadian disruption, among others, during deployment. Metabolic disturbances, increased cardiovascular risk, and sleep deprivation are associated with interrupting circadian rhythms due to routines contributing to physiological and cognitive abnormalities. Additionally, submariners face vitamin deficits of vitamin D and vitamin B12 due to little exposure to sunlight and poor nutrition. It is associated with cardiovascular dysfunctions, endothelial dysfunctions, metabolic abnormalities, and a greater cardiovascular risk. Moreover, high obesity prevalence has been noted among submariners. Such cases were attributed to leptin resistance, body fat deposits, and lifestyle statistics. Other risk factors to the cardiovascular system, like changes in heart rate variability and heart functions, have been witnessed. These health challenges can be mitigated by adopting proactive steps to address submariners' specific health needs. Such measures should include the prevention of stable circadian rhythms, vitamin intake, lifestyle, and cardiovascular health. By addressing these issues, submariners' well-being will be upheld, and their vulnerability to cardiovascular diseases and other health-related complications will be lessened.

Heat-killed Bifidobacterium longum BBMN68 and inulin protect against high-fat diet-induced obesity by modulating gut microbiota

INTRODUCTION

Obesity, a pervasive global epidemic, has heightened susceptibility to chronic ailments and diminished the overall life expectancy on a global scale. Probiotics and inulin (IN) have been documented to mitigate obesity by exerting an influence on the composition of the gut microbiota. Whether heat-killed Bifidobacterium longum BBMN68 (MN68) and IN have an anti-obesity effect remains to be investigated.

METHODS

In this study, Wistar rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD), and orally administered heat-killed MN68 (2 × 1011 CFU/kg) and/or inulin (0.25 kg/kg) for 12 weeks. Histological analysis, serology analysis and 16S rRNA gene sequencing were performed.

RESULTS

Heat-killed MN68 + IN treatment showed an enhanced effect on preventing weight gain, diminishing fat accumulation, and regulating lipid metabolism, compared to either heat-killed MN68 treatment or inulin treatment. Gut microbiota results showed that heat-killed MN68 + IN treatment significantly increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidota, Oscillospira, Intestinimonas, Christensenella, and Candidatus_Stoquefichus, and reduced the relative abundance of Enterococcus. Furthermore, heat-killed MN68 + IN significantly increased the SCFA levels, which were correlated with changes in the gut microbiota.

DISCUSSION

This research provides support for the application of heat-killed MN68 and IN in the treatment of obesity, and highlights the combination of heat-killed BBMN68 and IN as functional food ingredients.

Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Skin Extract Prevents Weight Gain and Hyperglycemia in High-Fat Diet-Induced Model of Obesity in Mice

The percentage of obese people is increasing worldwide, causing versatile health problems. Obesity is connected to diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which are preceded by a state called metabolic syndrome. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables have been reported to decrease the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Berries with a high polyphenol content, including lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.), have also been of interest to possibly prevent obesity-induced metabolic disturbances. In the present study, we prepared an extract from the by-product of a lingonberry juice production process (press cake/pomace) and investigated its metabolic effects in the high-fat diet-induced model of obesity in mice. The lingonberry skin extract partly prevented weight and epididymal fat gain as well as a rise in fasting glucose level in high-fat diet-fed mice. The extract also attenuated high-fat diet-induced glucose intolerance as measured by an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT). The extract had no effect on the levels of cholesterol, triglyceride or the adipokines adiponectin, leptin, or resistin. The results extend previous data on the beneficial metabolic effects of lingonberry. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind these effects and to develop further health-promoting lingonberry applications.

Inhibition of SOCS3 signaling in the nucleus tractus solitarii and retrotrapezoid nucleus alleviates hypoventilation in diet-induced obese male mice

The central leptin signaling system has been found to facilitate breathing and is linked to obesity-related hypoventilation. Activation of leptin signaling in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) and retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) enhances respiratory drive. In this study, we investigated how medullary leptin signaling contributes to hypoventilation and whether respective deletion of SOCS3 in the NTS and RTN could mitigate hypoventilation in diet-induced obesity (DIO) male mice. Our findings revealed a decrease in the number of CO2-activated NTS neurons and downregulation of acid-sensing ion channels in DIO mice compared to lean control mice. Moreover, NTS leptin signaling was disrupted, as evidenced by the downregulation of phosphorylated STAT3 and the upregulation of SOCS3 in DIO mice. Importantly, deleting SOCS3 in the NTS and RTN significantly improved the diminished hypercapnic ventilatory response in DIO mice. In conclusion, our study suggests that disrupted medullary leptin signaling contributes to obesity-related hypoventilation, and inhibiting the upregulated SOCS3 in the NTS and RTN can alleviate this condition.

Reduction of leptin levels during acute exercise is dependent on fasting but not on caloric restriction during chronic exercise: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The importance of leptin in controlling body mass has recently gained more attention. Its levels are directly associated with the amount of fat mass, but not necessarily dependent on it. Exercise has great potential in reducing leptin levels, however the response of exercise to this cytokine is still not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the review was to analyze the effects of physical exercise on plasma leptin concentration, either acutely (post-exercise/training session) and/or after a training period (short- or long-term), as well as to investigate the existence of possible moderating variables.

METHODS

The studies included in this systematic review were published between 2005 and May 2023. Only peer-reviewed studies, available in English, performed with humans that evaluated the effects of any form of exercise on leptin levels were included. The search was conducted on May 03, 2023, in Embase (Elsevier), MEDLINE via PubMed®, and Web of Science (Core collection). The risk of bias in the included trials was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database tool, considering 11 questions regarding the methodology of each study with 10 questions being scored. The data (n, mean, and standard deviation) were extracted from included studies to perform random effects meta-analyses using standardized mean difference between the pre- and post-intervention effects.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies (acute effect: 262 subjects; short- and long-term effect: 377 subjects) were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Short- and long-term physical exercise and caloric restriction plus exercise reduce plasma leptin levels, presenting statistically significant differences (p<0.001); as well as acute effect (p = 0.035), however the latter result was influenced by the pre-exercise meal as shown in the subgroup analysis. In this meta-analysis the effect of moderating factors on leptin reduction, not addressed by past reviews, is verified, such as the relationship with caloric restriction, exercise intensity and pre-exercise meal on acute responses.

CONCLUSION

Both acute and chronic exercise reduce leptin levels, yet the acute effect is dependent on the pre-exercise meal. In addition to having a long-term reduction in leptin levels, the minimum amount of weekly exercise to have a significant reduction in plasma leptin is 180 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise and 120 minutes of high-intensity exercise.

Serum leptin levels and relationship with maternal weight gain at term among obese and non-obese pregnant women in Enugu, Nigeria: a comparative cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To determine and compare the mean maternal serum leptin levels, the prevalence of high serum leptin levels and mean gestational weight gain at term among obese and non-obese pregnant women in Enugu, Nigeria.

METHODS

This cross-sectional comparative study enrolled obese and non-obese pregnant women. The serum leptin levels of the women were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Anthropometric and sociodemographic data were obtained and compared. Mean weight gain during pregnancy was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 170 pregnant women were included in the study. The mean ± SD serum leptin level (99.39 ± 50.2 ng/ml) and the prevalence of hyperleptinaemia (81 of 85 patients; 95.3%) among the obese pregnant women at term were significantly higher than those of the non-obese pregnant women (48.98 ± 30.35 ng/ml/65 of 85 patients; 76.5%). The mean percentage weight gain was significantly higher in the non-obese women compared with the obese women at term. The predictors of high maternal serum leptin level at term among the participants were the employment status and levels of education of the participants.

CONCLUSION

Maternal serum leptin level, maternal weight gain and prevalence of hyperleptinaemia at term were significantly higher in the obese compared with the non-obese pregnant women.

Association between Serum Irisin and Leptin Levels and Risk of Depressive Symptoms in the Diabetic Elderly Population

BACKGROUND

Adipokines are considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes and depression. The associations of serum levels of leptin and irisin with depressive symptoms were investigated in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

189 elderly diabetics were assessed with the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-30), and 57 patients with depressive symptoms and 132 controls were selected. Blood biochemical parameters, including serum irisin and leptin, were measured.

RESULTS

Serum irisin levels were decreased and leptin concentrations were significantly higher in T2DM patients with depressive symptoms compared to controls. In all subjects, the irisin level was inversely correlated with the leptin level and the GDS-30 score, whereas the leptin level was highly correlated with BMI and the GDS-30 score. Higher levels of leptin and lower concentrations of irisin are, among other factors, variables indicative of predictive capacity for depressive symptoms in elderly patients with T2DM.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated that irisin and leptin levels may be used as diagnostic markers of depressive symptoms in diabetic, elderly patients and as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment. Further prospective and more extensive studies are needed to clarify the role of these adipokines in the common pathogenesis of depression and diabetes.

Fish-Derived Protein Hydrolysates Increase Insulin Sensitivity and Alter Intestinal Microbiome in High-Fat-Induced Obese Mice

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are characterized by low-grade systemic inflammation and glucose intolerance, which can be partially controlled with nutritional interventions. Protein-containing nutritional supplements possess health-promoting benefits. Herein, we examined the effect of dietary supplementation with protein hydrolysates derived from fish sidestreams on obesity and diabetes, utilizing a mouse model of High-Fat Diet-induced obesity and type 2 diabetes. We examined the effect of protein hydrolysates from salmon and mackerel backbone (HSB and HMB, respectively), salmon and mackerel heads (HSH and HMH, respectively), and fish collagen. The results showed that none of the dietary supplements affected weight gain, but HSH partially suppressed glucose intolerance, while HMB and HMH suppressed leptin increase in the adipose tissue. We further analyzed the gut microbiome, which contributes to the metabolic disease implicated in the development of type 2 diabetes, and found that supplementation with selected protein hydrolysates resulted in distinct changes in gut microbiome composition. The most prominent changes occurred when the diet was supplemented with fish collagen since it increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and restricted the presence of harmful ones. Overall, the results suggest that protein hydrolysates derived from fish sidestreams can be utilized as dietary supplements with significant health benefits in the context of type 2 diabetes and diet-induced changes in the gut microbiome.

Using QTL to Identify Genes and Pathways Underlying the Regulation and Production of Milk Components in Cattle

Milk is a complex liquid, and the concentrations of many of its components are under genetic control. Many genes and pathways are known to regulate milk composition, and the purpose of this review is to highlight how the discoveries of quantitative trait loci (QTL) for milk phenotypes can elucidate these pathways. The main body of this review focuses primarily on QTL discovered in cattle (Bos taurus) as a model species for the biology of lactation, and there are occasional references to sheep genetics. The following section describes a range of techniques that can be used to help identify the causative genes underlying QTL when the underlying mechanism involves the regulation of gene expression. As genotype and phenotype databases continue to grow and diversify, new QTL will continue to be discovered, and although proving the causality of underlying genes and variants remains difficult, these new data sets will further enhance our understanding of the biology of lactation.

When should I eat: A circadian view on food intake and metabolic regulation

The circadian clock is a hierarchical timing system regulating most physiological and behavioral functions with a period of approximately 24 h in humans and other mammalian species. The circadian clock drives daily eating rhythms that, in turn, reinforce the circadian clock network itself to anticipate and orchestrate metabolic responses to food intake. Eating is tightly interconnected with the circadian clock and recent evidence shows that the timing of meals is crucial for the control of appetite and metabolic regulation. Obesity results from combined long-term dysregulation in food intake (homeostatic and hedonic circuits), energy expenditure, and energy storage. Increasing evidence supports that the loss of synchrony of daily rhythms significantly impairs metabolic homeostasis and is associated with obesity. This review presents an overview of mechanisms regulating food intake (homeostatic/hedonic) and focuses on the crucial role of the circadian clock on the metabolic response to eating, thus providing a fundamental research axis to maintain a healthy eating behavior.

Anti-obesity effect of Angelica keiskei Jiaosu prepared by yeast fermentation on high-fat diet-fed mice

In this study, an Angelica keiskei (A. keiskei) Jiaosu (FAK) was prepared by yeast fermentation to investigate its anti-obesity effect on high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. 70 SPF grade male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 10): blank control group (N), high-fat model group (M), positive control group (Orl), unfermented control group (NF), high-dose intervention group (FH), medium-dose intervention group (FM), and low-dose intervention group (FL). The results showed that FAK intervention significantly reduced the body weight, Lee's index and liver index of HFD-fed mice (P < 0.05). Compared with M group, the serum levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), leptin and glucose (GLU) in FH group were remarkably decreased and that of interleukin-27 (IL-27) were increased (P < 0.05). The levels of TG, and TC in the liver of mice were also markedly decreased in the FH group (P < 0.05). HE staining results showed that the liver cells in the three intervention groups had less degeneration and fatty vacuoles in the cytoplasm, and the liver cords were orderly arranged compared with that of M group. Furthermore, FAK significantly inhibited epididymal adipose tissue cell expansion induced by HFD. FAK up-regulated the protein expression levels of p-AMPK and PPARα to promote lipolysis and down-regulated the expression of PPARγ to reduce lipid synthesis (P < 0.05). Additionally, the results of gut microbiota showed that after the intervention, a decrease trend of F/B value and Deferribacterota was noticed in the FH group compared with M group. At the genus level, FAK intervention significantly increased that of Ileiobacterium compared to the M group (p < 0.05). A rising trend of norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium were also observed in the HF group. Conclusively, these findings demonstrated that FAK intervention can effectively improve obesity in mice caused by HFD and the potential mechanisms was related to the regulation of serum levels of leptin and IL-27, lipogenesis and lipolysis in adipose tissue and gut microbiota composition.

Ceruloplasmin-Deficient Mice Show Dysregulation of Lipid Metabolism in Liver and Adipose Tissue Reduced by a Protein Replacement

Ceruloplasmin is a ferroxidase that plays a role in iron homeostasis; its deficiency fosters inter alia iron accumulation in the liver, which expresses the soluble form of the protein secreted into the bloodstream. Ceruloplasmin is also secreted by the adipose tissue, but its role in adipocytes has been poorly investigated. We hypothesized that ceruloplasmin might have a role in iron/lipid interplay. We investigated iron/lipid dysmetabolism in the liver and adipose tissue of the ceruloplasmin-deficient mouse (CpKO) model of aceruloplasminemia and evaluated the effectiveness of ceruloplasmin replacement. We found that CpKO mice were overweight, showing adipose tissue accumulation, liver iron deposition and steatosis. In the adipose tissue of CpKO mice, iron homeostasis was not altered. Conversely, the levels of adiponectin and leptin adipokines behaved opposite to the wild-type. Increased macrophage infiltration was observed in adipose tissue and liver of CpKO mice, indicating tissue inflammation. The treatment of CpKO mice with ceruloplasmin limited liver iron accumulation and steatosis without normalizing the expression of iron homeostasis-related proteins. In the CpKO mice, the protein replacement limited macrophage infiltration in both adipose and hepatic tissues reduced the level of serum triglycerides, and partially recovered adipokines levels in the adipose tissue. These results underline the link between iron and lipid dysmetabolism in ceruloplasmin-deficient mice, suggesting that ceruloplasmin in adipose tissue has an anti-inflammatory role rather than a role in iron homeostasis. Furthermore, these data also indicate that ceruloplasmin replacement therapy may be effective at a systemic level.

Ageing, Metabolic Dysfunction, and the Therapeutic Role of Antioxidants

The gradual ageing of the world population has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes. The adipose tissue dysfunction associated with ageing and obesity shares many common physiological features, including increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity may help elucidate the processes that contribute to the metabolic disturbances that occur with ageing. This, in turn, may help identify therapeutic targets for the treatment of obesity and age-related metabolic disorders. Because oxidative stress plays a critical role in these pathological processes, antioxidant dietary interventions could be of therapeutic value for the prevention and/or treatment of age-related diseases and obesity and their complications. In this chapter, we review the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which obesity predisposes individuals to accelerated ageing. Additionally, we critically review the potential of antioxidant dietary interventions to counteract obesity and ageing.

Antiobesity Effect of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LM-141 on High-Fat Diet-Induced Rats through Alleviation of Inflammation and Insulin Resistance

In this study, we set out to evaluate the antiobesity activities of our newly isolated Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LM-141 (LPLM141) using a high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with a HFD with or without low-dosage (2 × 10⁷ CFU/day per rat) or high-dosage (2 × 10⁹ CFU/day per rat) LPLM141 for 14 weeks. The results showed that administration of LPLM141 significantly decreased body weight gain, liver weight, adipose tissue weight, and epididymal white adipocyte size increased by HFD feeding. The abnormal serum lipid profile induced by HFD feeding was normalized by administration of LPLM141. The enhanced chronic low-grade inflammation in HFD-fed rats was reduced by LPLM141 supplementation, as reflected by decreased serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels, reduced macrophage infiltration in adipose tissue, and increased serum adiponectin concentration. In addition, the elevations of proinflammatory cytokine genes and suppression of PPAR-γ mRNA in adipose tissues of rats fed with a HFD were markedly reversed by LPLM141 administration. Oral administration of LPLM141 induced browning of epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) and activation of interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) in rats fed with HFD. Consumption of LPLM141 exhibited a significant amelioration in insulin resistance, which were mechanistically caused by downregulation of the serum leptin level and upregulation of hepatic IRS-1 and p-Akt protein expressions, in HFD treated rats. LPLM141 consumption significantly decreased hepatic lipogenic gene expressions and preserved liver function stimulated by HFD treatment. Administration of LPLM141 obviously mitigated hepatic steatosis observed in HFD feeding rats. Our current findings shed light on LPLM141 supplementation that exhibited an antiobesity effect in HFD-fed rats by alleviating inflammation and insulin resistance, which further highlighted the potential of utilizing LPLM141 as a preventive/therapeutic probiotic agent for obesity.

Antidiabetic Properties of Chitosan and Its Derivatives

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder. In addition to taking medication, adjusting the composition of the diet is also considered one of the effective methods to control the levels of blood glucose. Chitosan and its derivatives are natural and versatile biomaterials with health benefits. Chitosan has the potential to alleviate diabetic hyperglycemia by reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis and increasing skeletal muscle glucose uptake and utility. Scientists also focus on the glucose-lowering effect of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS). COS supplementation has the potential to alleviate abnormal glucose metabolism in diabetic rats by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and lipid peroxidation in the liver. Both high and low molecular weight chitosan feeding reduced insulin resistance by inhibiting lipid accumulation in the liver and adipose tissue and ameliorating chronic inflammation in diabetic rats. COS can reduce insulin resistance but has less ability to reduce hepatic lipids in diabetic rats. A clinical trial showed that a 3-month administration of chitosan increased insulin sensitivity and decreased body weight and triglycerides in obese patients. Chitosan and COS are considered Generally Recognized as Safe; however, they are still considered to be of safety concerns. This review highlights recent advances of chitosan and its derivatives in the glucose-lowering/antidiabetic effects and the safety.

Adipokines: Deciphering the cardiovascular signature of adipose tissue

Obesity and hypertension are intimately linked due to the various ways that the important cell types such as vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), endothelial cells (EC), immune cells, and adipocytes, communicate with one another to contribute to these two pathologies. Adipose tissue is a very dynamic organ comprised primarily of adipocytes, which are well known for their role in energy storage. More recently adipose tissue has been recognized as the largest endocrine organ because of its ability to produce a vast number of signaling molecules called adipokines. These signaling molecules stimulate specific types of cells or tissues with many adipokines acting as indicators of adipocyte healthy function, such as adiponectin, omentin, and FGF21, which show anti-inflammatory or cardioprotective effects, acting as regulators of healthy physiological function. Others, like visfatin, chemerin, resistin, and leptin are often altered during pathophysiological circumstances like obesity and lipodystrophy, demonstrating negative cardiovascular outcomes when produced in excess. This review aims to explore the role of adipocytes and their derived products as well as the impacts of these adipokines on blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular homeostasis.

Bifidobacterium longum 070103 Fermented Milk Improve Glucose and Lipid Metabolism Disorders by Regulating Gut Microbiota in Mice

Background: Fermented milk is beneficial for metabolic disorders, while the underlying mechanisms of action remain unclear. This study explored the benefits and underlying mechanisms of Bifidobacterium longum 070103 fermented milk (BLFM) in thirteen-week high-fat and high-sugar (HFHS) fed mice using omics techniques. Methods and results: BLFM with activated glucokinase (GK) was screened by a double-enzyme coupling method. After supplementing BLFM with 10 mL/kg BW per day, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and leptin were significantly reduced compared with the HFHS group. Among them, the final body weight (BW), epididymal fat, perirenal fat, and brown fat in BLFM group had better change trends than Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG fermented milk (LGGFM) group. The amplicon and metabolomic data analysis identified Bifibacterium as a key gut microbiota at regulating glycolipid metabolism. BLFM reverses HFHS-induced reduction in bifidobacteria abundance. Further studies showed that BLFM significantly reduces the content of 3-indoxyl sulofphate associated with intestinal barrier damage. In addition, mice treated with BLFM improved BW, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. Conclusion: BLFM consumption attenuates obesity and related symptoms in HFHS-fed mice probably via the modulation of gut microbes and metabolites.

Gene polymorphism of leptin and risk for heart disease, obesity, and high BMI: a systematic review and pooled analysis in adult obese subjects

Objectives

Leptin polymorphism (LEP) has been associated with coronary heart disease (CAD), obesity, and high body mass index (BMI). However, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to discover the association because previous studies reached different conclusions.

Methods

Review Manager, version 5.3.5, and Stata, version 15.0, were used for statistical analysis. We calculated the effect size of the studies using the OR with the corresponding 95% CI, and two-sided (bilateral) p-values of 0.05 were considered significant. To determine heterogeneity among the selected studies, the Q test and I2 statistics were used. Meta-regression was used to examine the disease (heart disease, obesity, and high BMI) and heterogeneity between these subgroups.

Results

Eleven studies with 18,984 subjects were included in this study. The G-2548A (rs12112075), rs7799039, and A19G (rs2167270) polymorphisms of the leptin gene (but not the Lys656Asn (rs1805094) polymorphism) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Our pooled analysis revealed an association between the G-2548A (rs12112075) polymorphism and heart disease, high BMI, and obesity. This indicates that individuals carrying the AA allele are at an increased risk for heart disease, high BMI, and obesity. People with heart failure and coronary artery disease did not have the rs7799039 polymorphism or its alleles linked to them.

Conclusions

Combined analysis of data from current and published research suggests that the leptin gene polymorphisms G-2548A (rs12112075), rs7799039, and A19G (rs2167270) (but not the Lys656Asn (rs1805094) polymorphism) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Further research is needed to understand this association.

Leptin-mediated neural targets in obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as daytime hypercapnia in obese individuals in the absence of other underlying causes. In the United States, OHS is present in 10%-20% of obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea and is linked to hypoventilation during sleep. OHS leads to high cardiorespiratory morbidity and mortality, and there is no effective pharmacotherapy. The depressed hypercapnic ventilatory response plays a key role in OHS. The pathogenesis of OHS has been linked to resistance to an adipocyte-produced hormone, leptin, a major regulator of metabolism and control of breathing. Mechanisms by which leptin modulates the control of breathing are potential targets for novel therapeutic strategies in OHS. Recent advances shed light on the molecular pathways related to the central chemoreceptor function in health and disease. Leptin signaling in the nucleus of the solitary tract, retrotrapezoid nucleus, hypoglossal nucleus, and dorsomedial hypothalamus, and anatomical projections from these nuclei to the respiratory control centers, may contribute to OHS. In this review, we describe current views on leptin-mediated mechanisms that regulate breathing and CO2 homeostasis with a focus on potential therapeutics for the treatment of OHS.

Effects of Metformin on Bone Mineral Density and Adiposity-Associated Pathways in Animal Models with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review

Recently, there have been investigations on metformin (Met) as a potential treatment for bone diseases such as osteoporosis, as researchers have outlined that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses an increased risk of fractures. Hence, this systematic review was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the evidence that supports the bone-protective effects of metformin on male animal models with T2DM. Five databases—Google Scholar, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, SCOPUS, and ScienceDirect—were used to search for original randomized controlled trials published in English with relevant keywords. The search identified 18 articles that matched the inclusion criteria and illustrated the effects of Met on bone. This study demonstrates that Met improved bone density and reduced the effects of T2DM on adiposity formation in the animal models. Further research is needed to pinpoint the optimal dosage of Met required to exhibit these therapeutic effects.

Lactobacillus plantarum 23-1 improves intestinal inflammation and barrier function through the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in obese mice

As a natural active ingredient, lactic acid bacteria have potential anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, male C57BL/6J mice were given a high-fat diet (HFD) to establish an obese mouse model. Lactobacillus plantarum 23-1 (LP23-1) with prebiotic characteristics was intervened for 8 weeks to evaluate its remission effect on obese animals and related mechanisms. The effects of LP23-1 on lipid accumulation and intestinal inflammation in HFD-fed mice were systematically evaluated by detecting lipid accumulation, blood lipid level, pathological changes in the liver and small intestine, oxidative stress and inflammatory cell level, lipid transport-related gene expression, the inflammatory signaling pathway, and intestinal tight junction (TJ) mRNA and protein expression. The results showed that LP23-1 could significantly reduce the body weight and fat index of HFD-fed mice, improve the lipid levels of serum and liver, reduce the histopathological damage to the liver and small intestine, and alleviate oxidative stress and inflammatory response caused by obesity. In addition, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis showed that LP23-1 could regulate the mRNA expression of lipid transport-related genes; activate the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway; reduce intestinal inflammation; improve the mRNA and protein expression of intestinal TJ proteins zona occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, claudin-1, and Muc2; repair intestinal mucosal injury; and enhance intestinal barrier function. The aforementioned results showed that LP23-1 through the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and intestinal barrier function reduced obesity symptoms. This study provided new insights into the mechanism of LP23-1 in reducing obesity and provided a theoretical basis for developing new functional foods.

Lactobacillus paracasei 24 Attenuates Lipid Accumulation in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice by Regulating the Gut Microbiota

Obesity has become a worldwide public health problem. Lactic acid bacteria have attracted extensive attention for alleviating obesity and fat accumulation. This study aimed to evaluate the alleviating effects of Lactobacillus paracasei 24 (LP24) on lipid accumulation in an obese mouse model induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). The results showed that LP24 treatment significantly reduced body weight and fat deposition in HFD mice, improved blood lipid levels and liver steatosis, reduced liver oxidative stress injury and the inflammatory response, and regulated fat metabolism-related factors. Moreover, LP24 regulated the abundance and diversity of the gut microbiota, reduced the abundance of Firmicutes and the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), and increased the abundance of Akkermansia. In summary, LP24 regulates lipid metabolism by activating the expression level of related genes and regulating the gut microbiota through the gut-liver axis to attenuate the development of obesity. This study provides a theoretical basis for probiotics to regulate gut microbiota to reduce lipid accumulation.

A Multilevel Assessment of Plasticity in Response to High-Altitude Environment for Agama Lizards

Upslope range shifting has been documented in diverse species in response to global warming. Plasticity, which refers to the ability of organisms to alter their phenotypes in changing environments, is crucial for the survival of those that newly migrated to a high-altitude environment. The scope and mechanisms of plasticity across biological levels, however, have rarely been examined. We used two agama lizards (genus Phrynocephalus) as model systems and a transplant experiment to comprehensively assess their plasticity on multiple organization levels. Two low-altitude (934 m) agama species, Phrynocephalus axillaris (oviparous) and P. forsythii (viviparous), were transplanted to a high-altitude site (3,400 m). After acclimation for 6 weeks in seminatural enclosures, plasticity was measured from bite force, tail display behavior, gene expression, and metabolome. Both lizards were capable of acclimating to the high-altitude environment without sacrificing their performance in bite force, but they also showed high plasticity in tail display behavior by either decreasing the intensity of a specific display component (P. forsythii) or by the trade-off between display components (P. axillaris). Genes and metabolites associated with lipids, especially fatty acid metabolism, exhibited significant differentiation in expression, compared to individuals from their native habitats. Improved fatty acid storage and metabolism appeared to be a common response among animals at high altitudes. Despite distinct reproductive modes that may differ in response to physiological pressure, the two lizards demonstrated high concordance in plasticity when they faced a novel environment at high altitudes. Taken together, lizards likely acclimate to high-altitude environments by reducing behavioral activity and increasing energy efficiency after range shifting. Our results provide new insights into our understanding of phenotypic plasticity and its importance in today’s changing climate.

On the Relationship between Diabetes and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Evolution and Epigenetics

This review offers an overview of the relationship between diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), obesity, and heart disease. It then addresses evidence that the traditional understanding of this relationship is incomplete or misleading. In the process, there is a brief discussion of the evolutionary rationale for the development and retention of OSA in light of blood sugar dysregulation, as an adaptive mechanism in response to environmental stressors, followed by a brief overview of the general concepts of epigenetics. Finally, this paper presents the results of a literature search on the epigenetic marks and changes in gene expression found in OSA and diabetes. (While some of these marks will also correlate with obesity and heart disease, that is beyond the scope of this project). We conclude with an exploration of alternative explanations for the etiology of these interlinking diseases.

Association between plasma leptin and cesarean section after induction of labor: a case control study

Background

Obesity in pregnancy is common, with more than 50% of pregnant women being overweight or obese. Obesity has been identified as an independent predictor of dysfunctional labor and is associated with increased risk of failed induction of labor resulting in cesarean section. Leptin, an adipokine, is secreted from adipose tissue under the control of the obesity gene. Concentrations of leptin increase with increasing percent body fat due to elevated leptin production from the adipose tissue of obese individuals. Interestingly, the placenta is also a major source of leptin production during pregnancy. Leptin has regulatory effects on neuronal tissue, vascular smooth muscle, and nonvascular smooth muscle systems. It has also been demonstrated that leptin has an inhibitory effect on myometrial contractility with both intensity and frequency of contractions decreased. These findings suggest that leptin may play an important role in dysfunctional labor and be associated with the outcome of induction of labor at term. Our aim is to determine whether maternal plasma leptin concentration is indicative of the outcome of induction of labor at term. We hypothesize that elevated maternal plasma leptin levels are associated with a failed term induction of labor resulting in a cesarean delivery.

Methods

In this case-control study, leptin was measured in 3rd trimester plasma samples. To analyze labor outcomes, 174 women were selected based on having undergone an induction of labor (IOL), (115 women with successful IOL and 59 women with a failed IOL). Plasma samples and clinical information were obtained from the UI Maternal Fetal Tissue Bank (IRB# 200910784). Maternal plasma leptin and total protein concentrations were measured using commercially available assays. Bivariate analyses and logistic regression models were constructed using regression identified clinically significant confounding variables. All variables were tested at significance level of 0.05.

Results

Women with failed IOL had higher maternal plasma leptin values (0.5 vs 0.3 pg, P = 0.01). These women were more likely to have obesity (mean BMI 32 vs 27 kg/m², P = 0.0002) as well as require multiple induction methods (93% vs 73%, p = 0.008). Logistic regression showed Bishop score (OR 1.5, p < 0.001), BMI (OR 0.92, P < 0.001), preeclampsia (OR 0.12, P = 0.010), use of multiple methods of induction (OR 0.22, P = 0.008) and leptin (OR 0.42, P = 0.017) were significantly associated with IOL outcome. Specifically, after controlling for BMI, Bishop Score, and preeclampsia, leptin was still predictive of a failed IOL with an odds ratio of 0.47 (P = 0.046). Finally, using leptin as a predictor for fetal outcomes, leptin was also associated with of fetal intolerance of labor, with an odds ratio of 2.3 (P = 0.027). This association remained but failed to meet statistical significance when controlling for successful (IOL) (OR 1.5, P = 0.50).

Conclusions

Maternal plasma leptin may be a useful tool for determining which women are likely to have a failed induction of labor and for counseling women about undertaking an induction of labor versus proceeding with cesarean delivery.

Litchi chinensis seed prevents obesity and modulates the gut microbiota and mycobiota compositions in high-fat diet-induced obese zebrafish

Obesity continues to be a global public health challenge. Litchi chinensis seed is rich in bioactive ingredients with pharmacological effects, such as hypoglycemic activity and anti-oxidation. This study aimed to...

Shared metabolic and neuroimmune mechanisms underlying Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Major Depressive Disorder

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease with symptoms that go beyond the domain of glucose metabolism. In fact, research has shown that T2DM is accompanied by neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. Interestingly, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), a mood disorder characterized mainly by depressed mood and anhedonia is a key feature of T2DM. A body of evidence demonstrates that there are many shared neuroimmune mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of T2DM and MDD. Therefore, here we review the state-of-art regarding the underlying factors common to both T2DM and MDD. Furthermore, we briefly discuss how depressive symptoms in diabetic patients could be tackled by using novel therapeutic approaches uncovered by these shared mechanisms. Understanding the comorbidity of depression in diabetic patients is essential to fully address T2DM pathophysiology and treatment.

Leptin Protein Expression and Promoter Methylation in Ovarian Cancer: A Strong Prognostic Value with Theranostic Promises

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the deadliest among all gynecological cancers. Epidemiological studies showed that obesity might influence many cancers including OC. One of the key factors that may link obesity and OC is leptin (LEP), known as an adipokine with pleiotropic effects on body homeostasis. This study aims to investigate the expression pattern of LEP, assess the methylation profiles of LEP and their associations with clinicopathological features including survival outcomes of OC patients. The protein expression of LEP was evaluated in 208 samples using both tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry techniques. The methylation profiles of LEP were measured in 63 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissues by quantitative polymerase chain reaction using a MethyLight assay. Our results showed a significant association of LEP protein overexpression with several clinicopathological variables, mainly tumor subtype, LVI, age of menarche, tumor size and stage (p < 0.04). Kaplan-Meier analysis (using low expression versus high expression as a discriminator) indicated that LEP protein overexpression is a powerful positive prognosticator of both OC recurrence (DFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) in our OC cohort (log-rank p = 0.01 and p = 0.002, respectively). This implies that patients with high LEP expression profiles live longer with less recurrence rates. Methylation analysis results demonstrated a clear association between no/low LEP protein expression pattern (38%) and LEP promoter CpG island hypermethylation (43%). Results of this study suggest that LEP is a powerful prognosticator of OC recurrence and DSS. LEP expression in OC seems to be regulated by its promoter hypermethylation through gene partial/total silencing. Further multi-institutional studies using larger cohorts are required to demystify the intricate molecular functions of this leptin-driven effects in OC pathophysiology and to accurately assess its theranostic potential and validate its prognostic/predictive power in OC onset, progression towards more effective and personalized management of OC patients.

Effects of Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Supplementation on Hepatic Gene Expression in High-Fat Diet Fed Mice

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is growing worldwide in association with Western-style diet and increasing obesity. Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) is rich in polyphenols and has been shown to attenuate adverse metabolic changes in obese liver. This paper investigated the effects of lingonberry supplementation on hepatic gene expression in high-fat diet induced obesity in a mouse model. C57BL/6N male mice were fed for six weeks with either a high-fat (HF) or low-fat (LF) diet (46% and 10% energy from fat, respectively) or HF diet supplemented with air-dried lingonberry powder (HF + LGB). HF diet induced a major phenotypic change in the liver, predominantly affecting genes involved in inflammation and in glucose and lipid metabolism. Lingonberry supplementation prevented the effect of HF diet on an array of genes (in total on 263 genes) associated particularly with lipid or glucose metabolic process (such as Mogat1, Plin4, Igfbp2), inflammatory/immune response or cell migration (such as Lcn2, Saa1, Saa2, Cxcl14, Gcp1, S100a10) and cell cycle regulation (such as Cdkn1a, Tubb2a, Tubb6). The present results suggest that lingonberry supplementation prevents HF diet-induced adverse changes in the liver that are known to predispose the development of NAFLD and its comorbidities. The findings encourage carrying out human intervention trials to confirm the results, with the aim of recommending the use of lingonberries as a part of healthy diet against obesity and its hepatic and metabolic comorbidities.

Short-Chain Inulin Modulates the Cecal Microbiota Structure of Leptin Knockout Mice in High-Fat Diet

The aim of this study was to explore the effect of short-chain inulin on cecal microbiota of high-fat diet-fed leptin knockout mice and the different influences of cecal microbiota on wild-type and leptin knockout mice. A total of 18 specific pathogen-free male C57BL/6J wild-type mice and 18 C57BL/6J leptin knockout mice (OB/OB mice) were selected. Mice were divided into six groups according to their genotype: wild-type mice have three groups, including the normal diet group (CT), 60% high-fat diet group (CH), and 60% high fat with 10% short-chain inulin group (CHI); OB/OB mice were also divided into three groups, including the normal diet group (OT), 60% high-fat diet group (OH), and 60% high fat with 10% short-inulin group (OHI). The mice were fed for 8 weeks to analyze the diversity of cecal microbiota. The results show that compared with CH and OH, the variety of cecal microbiota was significantly reduced in CH and OH and further reduced in CHI and OHI. Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus are the biomarkers in genus level. Dietary short-chain inulin significantly enhanced Bifidobacterium in OHI compared with OH (p < 0.01) and significantly reduced in CHI and compared with CH (p < 0.01). Lactobacillus was significantly enhanced in CHI and OHI compared with CH and OH, respectively (p < 0.01). Blautia was significantly enhanced in CH and OH compared with other groups (p < 0.01). Both Escherichia-Shigella and Enterococcus were significantly reduced in CHI and OHI, compared with CH and OH, respectively (p < 0.05). Escherichia-Shigella was even lower than CT and OT in CHI and OHI. Functional prediction of microbial communities showed that the abundance of amino acid sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism pathways were significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) in CH and OH, and OH was significantly higher than CH (p < 0.05). Among the leptin knockout groups, PICRUSt2 function prediction showed that the fatty acid metabolism pathway significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in OHI and OT compared with OH. In conclusion, short-chain inulin modulated the dysbiosis induced by high-fat diet, improved probiotics growth and inhibited conditioned pathogenic bacteria, and the influences were significantly different in wild-type and leptin knockout mice.

Anti-Obesity Effect of Hot Water Extract of Barley Sprout through the Inhibition of Adipocyte Differentiation and Growth

Barley sprouts are known to have several effective physiological activities. In this study, the anti-obesity effect of a barley sprout hot water extract (BSE) was confirmed. Saponarin was quantitatively analyzed in BSE using HPLC, and the inhibitory effect on 3T3-L1 pre-adipocyte differentiation into adipocytes was confirmed by Oil Red O staining, TG assay, and Western blotting. In addition, the inhibitory effect of BSE on adipocyte growth was confirmed through glucose uptake and lipolysis of adipocytes. C57/BL/6N mice were induced to obesity with a high-fat diet, and BSE was administered to confirm the effect on an animal model. Weight gain, morphological changes in adipose tissue, changes in the food efficiency ratio, and blood biochemical changes were observed, and an improvement effect on fatty liver was confirmed. As a result, the anti-obesity effect of BSE was confirmed in vitro, and it was confirmed that this effect was also effective in vivo and that it could be helpful in the treatment of obesity-related diseases.

Short-term high fat diet alters genes associated with metabolic and vascular dysfunction during adolescence in rats: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Diet-induced metabolic dysfunction precedes multiple disease states including diabetes, heart disease, and vascular dysfunction. The critical role of the vasculature in disease progression is established, yet the details of how gene expression changes in early cardiovascular disease remain an enigma. The objective of the current pilot project was to evaluate whether a quantitative assessment of gene expression within the aorta of six-week old healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats compared to those exhibiting symptoms of metabolic dysfunction could reveal potential mediators of vascular dysfunction.

METHODS

RNA was extracted from the aorta of eight rats from a larger experiment; four animals fed a high-fat diet (HFD) known to induce symptoms of metabolic dysfunction (hypertension, increased adiposity, fasting hyperglycemia) and four age-matched healthy animals fed a standard chow diet (CHOW). The bioinformatic workflow included Gene Ontology (GO) biological process enrichment and network analyses.

RESULTS

The resulting network contained genes relevant to physiological processes including fat and protein metabolism, oxygen transport, hormone regulation, vascular regulation, thermoregulation, and circadian rhythm. The majority of differentially regulated genes were downregulated, including several associated with circadian clock function. In contrast, leptin and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (Hmgcs2) were notably upregulated. Leptin is involved in several major energy balance signaling pathways and Hmgcs2 is a mitochondrial enzyme that catalyzes the first reaction of ketogenesis.

CONCLUSION

Together, these data describe changes in gene expression within the aortic wall of HFD rats with early metabolic dysfunction and highlight potential pathways and signaling intermediates that may impact the development of early vascular dysfunction.

Impact of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors on Cardiac Protection

Sodium–glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been approved as a new class of anti-diabetic drugs for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The SGLT2 inhibitors reduce glucose reabsorption through renal systems, thus improving glycemic control in all stages of diabetes mellitus, independent of insulin. This class of drugs has the advantages of no clinically relevant hypoglycemia and working in synergy when combined with currently available anti-diabetic drugs. While improving sugar level control in these patients, SGLT2 inhibitors also have the advantages of blood-pressure improvement and bodyweight reduction, with potential cardiac and renal protection. In randomized control trials for patients with diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors not only improved cardiovascular and renal outcomes, but also hospitalization for heart failure, with this effect extending to those without diabetes mellitus. Recently, dynamic communication between autophagy and the innate immune system with Beclin 1-TLR9-SIRT3 complexes in response to SGLT2 inhibitors that may serve as a potential treatment strategy for heart failure was discovered. In this review, the background molecular pathways leading to the clinical benefits are examined in this new class of anti-diabetic drugs, the SGLT2 inhibitors.

Obesity and its impact on COVID-19

The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has proven a challenge to healthcare systems since its first appearance in late 2019. The global spread and devastating effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on patients have resulted in countless studies on risk factors and disease progression. Overweight and obesity emerged as one of the major risk factors for developing severe COVID-19. Here we review the biology of coronavirus infections in relation to obesity. In particular, we review literature about the impact of adiposity-related systemic inflammation on the COVID-19 disease severity, involving cytokine, chemokine, leptin, and growth hormone signaling, and we discuss the involvement of hyperactivation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Due to the sheer number of publications on COVID-19, we cannot be completed, and therefore, we apologize for all the publications that we do not cite.

Sargassum fusiforme together with turmeric extract and pomegranate peel extract alleviates obesity in high fat-fed C57BL/6J mice

Sargassum fusiforme, a nutritious edible brown alga, has been widely suggested to play an important role in the development of functional food because of its multiple biological activities. The aim of this study was to explore the anti-obesity effect of the combination of Sargassum fusiforme with extracts of fruit and vegetable by comparing the effects of Sargassum fusiforme (S), Sargassum fusiforme together with pomegranate peel extract (SP), Sargassum fusiforme together with turmeric extract (ST) and Sargassum fusiforme together with turmeric extract and pomegranate peel extract (C) on diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mice. Long-term consumption of a high-fat diet can lead to high levels of blood lipid, increase adipocyte size, and cause lipid metabolism dysfunction and gut microbiota dysbiosis. According to the results of the experiments, SP and ST were more effective in reducing lipid levels and fat accumulation than S; and, C exhibited the strongest efficacy compared with the other three supplements. ST and C also regulated adipocytokines and had significant effects on the gene expression of lipid metabolism. We also found that C alleviated the imbalance of intestinal flora caused by a high-fat diet to a certain extent. In conclusion, SP, ST and C have anti-obesity potentials, which can be used as alternative ingredients in the formula of functional food for obese people.

Association Between Diet Quality and Cardiometabolic Risk Factor Clustering Stratified by Socioeconomic Status Among Chinese Children

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated the long-term relationship between diet quality and cardiometabolic risk factor clustering among children. The moderating effect of socio-economic status (SES) is of interest.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between diet quality with cardiometabolic risk among Chinese children and to explore the moderating effect of SES.

DESIGN

In this cohort study, 5 waves (1997-2009) of the China Health and Nutrition Survey were used. Diet quality was measured by a modified version of the Chinese Children Dietary Index (mCCDI) based on Dietary Guidelines for Chinese.

PARTICIPANTS

Children between the ages of 7 and 17 (n = 2903) who completed at least 2 surveys were included. Those who missed measures or had hypertension or diabetes at baseline were excluded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The fasting blood samples were collected in 2009. Waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure (BP) were measured in each survey.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS PERFORMED

A continuous cardiometabolic risk score (MetScore) was derived by a confirmatory factor analysis of 5 components: WC, BP, glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Considering the latency period of the effect of behaviors, the mCCDI was lagged by the period between surveys. Linear regression was used to analyze the association of mCCDI with MetScore and its components. Mixed effect linear regression and lagged mCCDI were used for WC and BP models.

RESULTS

Higher mCCDI was independently associated with a lower MetScore at follow-up (β: -.11; 95% CI: -.18 to -.04). Higher lagged mCCDI over time was associated with a lower WC z score overall (β: -.05; 95% CI: -.08 to -.01) and among children in the low SES group (β: -.09; 95% CI: -.14 to -.04) but not those in the high SES group. When examining the 15 mCDDI components separately, scores for 5 components: more grains, vegetables, soybeans and its products; less sugar-sweetened beverages; and more diet variety were significantly associated with a lower MetScore.

CONCLUSIONS

Among Chinese children, higher diet quality measured by mCCDI was independently associated with a lower MetScore at follow-up.

Effects of betaine on non-alcoholic liver disease

The increasing prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses a growing challenge in terms of its prevention and treatment. The 'multiple hits' hypothesis of multiple insults, such as dietary fat intake, de novo lipogenesis, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut dysbiosis and hepatic inflammation, can provide a more accurate explanation of the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Betaine plays important roles in regulating the genes associated with NAFLD through anti-inflammatory effects, increased free fatty oxidation, anti-lipogenic effects and improved insulin resistance and mitochondrial function; however, the mechanism of betaine remains elusive.

Effects of the extract from peanut meal fermented with Bacillus natto and Monascus on lipid metabolism and intestinal barrier function of hyperlipidemic mice

BACKGROUND

Hyperlipidemia is one of the metabolic disorders that poses a great threat to human health. This study is aimed at investigating the potential hypolipidemic properties of extract from peanut meal fermented with Bacillus natto and Monascus in mice fed with a high-fat diet. Herein, 60 male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into six groups: four control groups, comprised of a normal group, a model (M) group, a positive control group (atorvastatin 10 mg kg^-1 ), and a nonfermented peanut meal extract group (150 mg kg^-1 ), and two experimental groups, comprised of a fermented peanut meal extract low-dose group (50 mg kg^-1 ) and a fermented peanut meal extract high-dose group (FH, 150 mg kg^-1 ).

RESULTS

Body weight (P = 0.001) and levels of serum total cholesterol (P = 0.007), triacylglycerol (P = 0.040), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.001), and leptin (P < 0.001) were remarkably decreased in the FH group, whereas the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were increased (P < 0.001) by 78.3% compared with the M group. Ileum tissue stained with hematoxylin and eosin showed that the ileal villus detachments in mice were improved, and the villus height was increased by supplementation with extract from fermented peanut meal. Moreover, the expressions of intestinal ZO-1 (P = 0.003) and occludin (P = 0.013) were elevated in the FH group, compared with the M group.

CONCLUSION

Extract of peanut meal fermented by B. natto and Monascus can effectively improve hyperlipidemia caused by a high-fat diet in mice, via regulating leptin and blood lipid levels, and protect the intestinal mucosal barrier, which provides evidence for its anti-hyperlipidemia effects and is a research basis for potential industrial development. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Assessment of Patients with Periorbital Melanosis for Hyperinsulinemia and Insulin Resistance

Background:

Periorbital melanosis (PM) is one of the most common dermatological condition seen in routine practice. Several cutaneous markers such as acanthosis nigricans have been associated with insulin resistance (IR). However, the association of PM with IR needs to be substantiated.

Objective:

The objective of the study is to evaluate the association of circulating adipokines and IR with PM.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 100 patients with PM and 100 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and leptin: adiponectin ratio (L/A ratio) were assayed.

Results:

The serum levels of leptin, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, L/A ratio were significantly higher in patients with PM as compared to controls. The serum levels of adiponectin were significantly lower in cases as compared to controls. On multivariate regression analysis, leptin, adiponectin, and HOMA-IR were found to be significant, even after adjusting for BMI, blood pressure and LDL and HDL cholesterol.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that patients with PM have hyperinsulinemia, IR, and elevated L/A ratio. PM as a marker of IR in adults may help in identifying patients early and thus aid in the early prevention and management of the disease.

Ghrelin and adipokines: An overview of their physiological role, antimicrobial activity and impact on cardiovascular conditions

The human body has many different hormones that interact with each other and with other factors such as proteins, cell receptors and metabolites. There is still a limited understanding of some of the underlying biological mechanisms of some hormones. In the past decades, science and technology have made major advancements in regard to innovation and knowledge in fields such as medicine. However, some conditions are complex and have many variables that their full picture is still unclear, even though some of these conditions have an alarming rate of incidence and serious health consequences. Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, nonalcoholic liver disease (NAFLD), cancer in its different forms and even mental conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, are some of the most common diseases in the 21st century. These conditions are relevant not only because of their high incidence on the general population, but also because of their severity. In this chapter, we present an overview of cardiovascular (CV) diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, cardiomyopathy and heart failure (among others), are the number one cause of death worldwide. In 2016, it was estimated that 17.9 million people died from CV diseases, representing more than 30% of all global deaths. Approximately 95% of people who died from CV diseases were so-called "premature deaths" because were referenced to individuals under the age of 70 years old. In this chapter we described some of the hormones that may have an impact on CV diseases, including ghrelin, a peptide that is mostly produced in the stomach, known to induce hunger. Ghrelin is linked to an increase in body fat, i.e., adipose tissue in animals. For this reason, we also included the adipokines leptin, adiponectin and resistin. The main objectives of this chapter are to present the state of the art knowledge concerning the mechanisms of each hormone relevant to CV diseases; to compile data and results that further elucidate the relevance of these peptides for several physiological events, conditions and diseases; and to discuss the metabolic impact of each hormone. We established connections between multiple peptides and the underlying condition/disease with tools such as STRING, referring to research using databases, such as UniProt, DisGeNET and Proteomics DB. Fig. 1 shows a network that summarizes the information presented in this chapter, which serves as a visual representation.

[Features of intestinal microbiota disorders in the development of metabolic disorders in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease]

We discussed about the term intestinal permeability like as the mucosal barrier a single structural and functional conception that includes the layer of mucus, the indigenous microbiota and the epithelium of the mucosa in this publication. Information was presented about the role of the microbiota, the composition of intestinal mucus, epithelial cells and proteins of tight junctions which lead to various metabolic diseases. The complex pathogenetic interactions are formed between the intestinal mucosal barrier, metabolic disorders such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular diseases. The complex researches and modification of this interactions will allow to create personalized approaches and to prevent of these diseases.

Temporary effects of neonatal overfeeding on homeostatic control of food intake involve alterations in POMC promoter methylation in male rats

A small litter (SL) model was used to determine how neonatal overfeeding affects the homeostatic control of food intake in male rats at weaning and postnatal day (PND) 90. At PND4, litters were reduced to small (4 pups/dam) or normal (10 pups/dam) litters. At weaning, SL rats showed higher body weight and characteristic features of the metabolic syndrome. Gene expression of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript, neuropeptide Y (NPY) and leptin and ghrelin (GHSR) receptors were increased and POMC promoter was hypomethylated in arcuate nucleus, indicating that the early development of obesity may involve the GHSR/NPY system and changes in POMC methylation state. At PND90, body weight, metabolic parameters and gene expression were restored; however, POMC methylation state remained altered. This work provides insight into the effects of neonatal overfeeding, showing the importance of developmental plasticity in restoring early changes in central pathways involved in metabolic programming.

First trimester secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 and other adipokine serum concentrations in women developing gestational diabetes mellitus

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether soluble frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) concentration in the first trimester of pregnancy is individually, or in combination with Leptin, Chemerin and/or Adiponectin, associated with the development of gestational diabetes (GDM).

Methods

In a nested case-control study, 50 women with GDM who spontaneously conceived and delivered a live-born infant were matched with a total of 100 uncomplicated singleton control pregnancies based on body mass index (± 2 kg/m²), gestational age at sampling (exact day) and maternal age (± 2 years). In serum samples, obtained between 70–90 days gestational age, sFRP4, Chemerin, Leptin and Adiponectin concentrations were determined by ELISA. Statistical comparisons were performed using univariate and multi-variate logistic regression analysis after logarithmic transformation of the concentrations. Discrimination of the models was assessed by the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

First trimester sFRP4 concentrations were significantly increased in GDM cases (2.04 vs 1.93 ng/ml; p<0.05), just as Chemerin (3.19 vs 3.15 ng/ml; p<0.05) and Leptin (1.44 vs 1.32 ng/ml; p<0.01). Adiponectin concentrations were significantly decreased (2.83 vs 2.94 ng/ml; p<0.01) in GDM cases. Further analysis only showed a weak, though significant, correlation of sFRP4 with Chemerin (R² = 0.124; p<0.001) and Leptin (R² = 0.145; p<0.001), and Chemerin with Leptin (R² = 0.282; p<0.001) in the control group. In a multivariate logistic regression model of these four markers, only Adiponectin showed to be significantly associated with GDM (odds ratio 0.12, 95%CI 0.02–0.68). The AUC of this model was 0.699 (95%CI 0.605–0.793).

Conclusion

In the first trimester of pregnancy, a multi-marker model with sFRP4, Leptin, Chemerin and Adiponectin is associated with the development of GDM. Therefore, this panel seems to be an interesting candidate to further evaluate for prediction of GDM in a prospective study.

Sleeve gastrectomy-induced endocrine changes in the remnant stomachs of premenopausal and postmenopausal rats: role of the estrogen receptors

BACKGROUND

Although alterations in the plasma levels of leptin, glucagon-like peptide-1, and gastrin were linked with bariatric surgery outcomes, gastric production of these peptides was not elucidated before.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate the impact of estrogen depletion and estrogen receptors (ERs) on sleeve gastrectomy (SG)-induced alterations in gastric hormone production, gastric mucosal integrity, and bone mass.

SETTING

Physiology Research Lab at the University.

METHODS

Female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent ovariectomy or sham operation (control), and 2 months later SG or sham SG was performed. Rats received either nonselective agonist 17 β, ER-α agonist, ER-β agonist, or vehicle for 3 weeks. Trunk blood and gastric tissues were collected for biochemical measurements, while histopathologic examination was performed in gastric and femur samples.

RESULTS

In the presence of intact ovaries, SG-induced weight loss was accompanied by reductions in the gastric synthesis of leptin and gastrin, while gastric glucagon-like peptide-1 was additionally decreased when SG was performed at the postmenopausal state. SG elevated the depleted serum estradiol levels of menopause, implicating a beneficial effect, but the occurrence of severe gastric mucosal injury was triggered. On the other hand, using ER agonists upregulated gastrin-expressing cells, ameliorated gastric injury, and improved bone loss.

CONCLUSIONS

SG, either at premenopausal or postmenopausal state, resulted in considerable loss in bone mass, along with reductions in the gastric levels of gastrin and leptin. Functional status of the ovaries needs to be taken into consideration when monitoring the outcomes of SG, and ER agonists could be of value in controlling SG-induced complications.