Differential effect of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids on alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus

Mitigation of chronic glucotoxicity-mediated skeletal muscle atrophy by arachidonic acid

Toxicity caused by chronic hyperglycemia is a significant factor affecting skeletal muscle myogenesis, resulting in diabetic myopathy. Chronic and persistent hyperglycemia causes activation of the atrophy-related pathways in the skeletal muscles, which eventually results in inflammation and muscle degeneration. To counteract this process, various bioactive compound has been studied for their reversal or hypertrophic effect. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanisms associated with reversing glucotoxicity's effect in C2C12 cells by arachidonic acid (AA). We found a substantial increase in the pro-inflammatory cytokines and ROS production in hyperglycemic conditions, mitigated by AA supplementation. We found that AA supplementation restored protein synthesis that was downregulated under glucotoxicity conditions. AA enhanced myogenesis by suppressing high glucose induced inflammation and ROS production and enhancing protein synthesis. These results imply that AA has cytoprotective actions against hyperglycemia-induced cytotoxicity.

Membrane Lipid Derivatives: Roles of Arachidonic Acid and Its Metabolites in Pancreatic Physiology and Pathophysiology

One of the most important constituents of the cell membrane is arachidonic acid. Lipids forming part of the cellular membrane can be metabolized in a variety of cellular types of the body by a family of enzymes termed phospholipases: phospholipase A2, phospholipase C and phospholipase D. Phospholipase A2 is considered the most important enzyme type for the release of arachidonic acid. The latter is subsequently subjected to metabolization via different enzymes. Three enzymatic pathways, involving the enzymes cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase and cytochrome P450, transform the lipid derivative into several bioactive compounds. Arachidonic acid itself plays a role as an intracellular signaling molecule. Additionally, its derivatives play critical roles in cell physiology and, moreover, are involved in the development of disease. Its metabolites comprise, predominantly, prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes and hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids. Their involvement in cellular responses leading to inflammation and/or cancer development is subject to intense study. This manuscript reviews the findings on the involvement of the membrane lipid derivative arachidonic acid and its metabolites in the development of pancreatitis, diabetes and/or pancreatic cancer.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) Protects against Ionizing Radiation-Induced Damage: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Radiation is pro-inflammatory in nature in view of its ability to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors with associated inflammatory cells. Cells are efficient in repairing radiation-induced DNA damage; however, exactly how this happens is not clear. In the present study, GLA reduced DNA damage (as evidenced by micronuclei formation) and enhanced metabolic viability, which led to an increase in the number of surviving RAW 264.7 cells in vitro by reducing ROS generation, and restoring the activities of desaturases, COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX enzymes, TNF-α/TGF-β, NF-kB/IkB, and Bcl-2/Bax ratios, and iNOS, AIM-2, and caspases 1 and 3, to near normal. These in vitro beneficial actions were confirmed by in vivo studies, which revealed that the survival of female C57BL/6J mice exposed to lethal radiation (survival~20%) is significantly enhanced (to ~80%) by GLA treatment by restoring altered levels of duodenal HMGB1, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 concentrations, as well as the expression of NF-kB, IkB, Bcl-2, Bax, delta-6-desaturase, COX-2, and 5-LOX genes, and pro- and anti-oxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, glutathione), to near normal. These in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that GLA protects cells/tissues from lethal doses of radiation by producing appropriate changes in inflammation and its resolution in a timely fashion.

A novel in vitro approach to test the effectiveness of fish oil in ameliorating type 1 diabetes

Diabetes type 1 (T1D) characterized by destruction of pancreatic β-cells results in inadequate insulin production and hyperglycaemia. Generation of reactive oxygen species and glycosylation end-products stimulates toxic impacts on T1D. Dietary w-3 fatty acids present in Fish oil (FO) might be helpful in the prevention of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, thus, beneficial against T1D. But how the cellular secretion from β-cells under influence of FO affects the glucose homeostasis of peri-pancreatic cells is poorly understood. In the current study, we aimed to introduce an in vitro model for T1D and evaluate its effectiveness in respect of alloxan treatment to pancreatic Min6 cells. We use alloxan in the Min6 pancreatic β-cell line to induce cellular damage related to T1D. Further treatment with FO was seen to prevent cell death by alloxan and induce mRNA expression of both insulin 1 and insulin 2 isoforms under low-glucose conditions. From the first part of the study, it is clear that FO is effective to recover Min6 cells from the destructive effect of alloxan, and it worked best when given along with alloxan or given after alloxan treatment regime. FO-induced secretion of molecules from Min6 was clearly shown to regulate mRNA expression of key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism in peri-pancreatic cell types. This is a pilot study showing that an improved in vitro approach of using Min6 along with muscle cells (C2C12) and adipose tissue cells (3T3-L1) together to understand the crosstalk of molecules could be used to check the efficacy of an anti-diabetic drug.

Using Metabolomics in Diabetes Management with Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Review

The incidence of diabetes worldwide continues to rise, placing a huge economic and medical burden on human society. More than 90% of diabetic cases are type 2 diabetes (T2D). At present, the pathogenesis of T2D is not yet fully understood. Metabolomics uses high-resolution analytical techniques (typically NMR and MS) to help identify biomarkers associated with the risk of T2D and reveal potential pathogenesis. Many metabolites such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), aromatic amino acids, glycine, 2-hydroxybutyric acid (2-HB), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) (18:2), and trehalose have proven to be biomarkers of T2D. Insulin resistance (IR) induced by BCAA in T2D mice is related to the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS1). Incomplete LCFA [Formula: see text]-oxidation promote acylcarnitine byproduct accumulation and stimulates proinflammatory NF[Formula: see text]B-related pathways to inhibit insulin action. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) presents unique advantages in the treatment of T2D. Multiple metabolites and metabolic pathways have been identified in the treatment of TCM, providing valuable biomarkers and novel targets for drug therapy and pharmacological mechanism. Therefore, this paper reviews the modern achievements of metabolomics in T2D research and the progress of TCM management in recent years, in order to provide valuable information for related research.

"Cell Membrane Theory of Senescence" and the Role of Bioactive Lipids in Aging, and Aging Associated Diseases and Their Therapeutic Implications

Lipids are an essential constituent of the cell membrane of which polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are the most important component. Activation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) induces the release of PUFAs from the cell membrane that form precursors to both pro- and ant-inflammatory bioactive lipids that participate in several cellular processes. PUFAs GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), DGLA (dihomo-GLA), AA (arachidonic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are derived from dietary linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) by the action of desaturases whose activity declines with age. Consequently, aged cells are deficient in GLA, DGLA, AA, AA, EPA and DHA and their metabolites. LA, ALA, AA, EPA and DHA can also be obtained direct from diet and their deficiency (fatty acids) may indicate malnutrition and deficiency of several minerals, trace elements and vitamins some of which are also much needed co-factors for the normal activity of desaturases. In many instances (patients) the plasma and tissue levels of GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA are low (as seen in patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus) but they do not have deficiency of other nutrients. Hence, it is reasonable to consider that the deficiency of GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA noted in these conditions are due to the decreased activity of desaturases and elongases. PUFAs stimulate SIRT1 through protein kinase A-dependent activation of SIRT1-PGC1α complex and thus, increase rates of fatty acid oxidation and prevent lipid dysregulation associated with aging. SIRT1 activation prevents aging. Of all the SIRTs, SIRT6 is critical for intermediary metabolism and genomic stability. SIRT6-deficient mice show shortened lifespan, defects in DNA repair and have a high incidence of cancer due to oncogene activation. SIRT6 overexpression lowers LDL and triglyceride level, improves glucose tolerance, and increases lifespan of mice in addition to its anti-inflammatory effects at the transcriptional level. PUFAs and their anti-inflammatory metabolites influence the activity of SIRT6 and other SIRTs and thus, bring about their actions on metabolism, inflammation, and genome maintenance. GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), lipoxin A4 (LXA4) (pro- and anti-inflammatory metabolites of AA respectively) activate/suppress various SIRTs (SIRt1 SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6), PPAR-γ, PARP, p53, SREBP1, intracellular cAMP content, PKA activity and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1-α (PGC1-α). This implies that changes in the metabolism of bioactive lipids as a result of altered activities of desaturases, COX-2 and 5-, 12-, 15-LOX (cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenases respectively) may have a critical role in determining cell age and development of several aging associated diseases and genomic stability and gene and oncogene activation. Thus, methods designed to maintain homeostasis of bioactive lipids (GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA, DHA, PGE2, LXA4) may arrest aging process and associated metabolic abnormalities.

Resolvin D1 Decreases Severity of Streptozotocin-Induced Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus by Enhancing BDNF Levels, Reducing Oxidative Stress, and Suppressing Inflammation

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease characterized by increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines secreted by infiltrating macrophages and T cells that destroy pancreatic β cells in a free radical-dependent manner that causes decrease or absence of insulin secretion and consequent hyperglycemia. Hence, suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress may ameliorate or decrease the severity of diabetes mellitus. To investigate the effect and mechanism(s) of action of RVD1, an anti-inflammatory metabolite derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on STZ-induced type 1 DM in male Wistar rats, type 1 diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal (i.p) streptozotocin (STZ-65 mg/kg) injection. RVD1 (60 ng/mL, given intraperitoneally) was administered from day 1 along with STZ for five consecutive days. Plasma glucose, IL-6, TNF-α, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor that has anti-diabetic actions), LXA4 (lipoxin A4), and RVD1 levels and BDNF concentrations in the pancreas, liver, and brain tissues were measured. Apoptotic (Bcl2/Bax), inflammatory (COX-1/COX-2/Nf-κb/iNOS/PPAR-γ) genes and downstream insulin signaling proteins (Gsk-3β/Foxo1) were measured in the pancreatic tissue along with concentrations of various antioxidants and lipid peroxides. RVD1 decreased severity of STZ-induced type 1 DM by restoring altered plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and BDNF (p < 0.001); expression of pancreatic COX-1/COX-2/PPAR-γ genes and downstream insulin signaling proteins (Gsk-3β/Foxo1) and the concentrations of antioxidants and lipid peroxides to near normal. RVD1 treatment restored expression of Bcl2/Pdx genes, plasma LXA4 (p < 0.001) and RVD1 levels and increased brain, pancreatic, intestine, and liver BDNF levels to near normal. The results of the present study suggest that RVD1 can prevent STZ-induced type 1 diabetes by its anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions and by activating the Pdx gene that is needed for pancreatic β cell proliferation.

Bioactive Lipids in COVID-19-Further Evidence

Previously, I suggested that arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4 n-6) and similar bioactive lipids (BALs) inactivate SARS-CoV-2 and thus, may be of benefit in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. This proposal is supported by the observation that (i) macrophages and T cells (including NK cells, cytotoxic killer cells and other immunocytes) release AA and other BALs especially in the lungs to inactivate various microbes; (ii) pro-inflammatory metabolites prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotrienes (LTs) and anti-inflammatory lipoxin A4 (LXA4) derived from AA (similarly, resolvins, protectins and maresins derived from eicosapentaenoic acid: EPA and docosahexaenoic acid: DHA) facilitate the generation of M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages respectively; (iii) AA, PGE2, LXA4 and other BALs inhibit interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) synthesis; (iv) mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that are of benefit in COVID-19 elaborate LXA4 to bring about their beneficial actions and (v) subjects with insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary heart disease and the elderly have significantly low plasma concentrations of AA and LXA4 that may render them more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and cytokine storm that is associated with increased mortality seen in COVID-19. Statins, colchicine, and corticosteroids that appear to be of benefit in COVID-19 can influence BALs metabolism. AA, and other BALs influence cell membrane fluidity and thus, regulate ACE-2 (angiotensin converting enzyme-2) receptors (the ligand through which SARS-CoV2 enters the cell) receptors. These observations lend support to the contention that administration of BALs especially, AA could be of significant benefit in prevention and management of COVI-19 and other enveloped viruses.

Resolvin D1 Ameliorates Nicotinamide-streptozotocin-induced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by its Anti-inflammatory Action and Modulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway in the Brain

OBJECTIVE

To study whether resolvin D1 (RvD1), a metabolite of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), prevents NA-STZ-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) in vivo and if so, what could be the mechanism of this action.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Single intra-peritoneal (i.p) injection of NA-STZ (175 mg/kg body weight of NA and 65 mg/kg of STZ) was injected simultaneously with RvD1 (60 ng/animal) (injected for 5 consecutive days) to Wistar rats. The effect of RvD1 on plasma glucose levels and apoptotic (Bcl2/Bax) and inflammatory (NF-κB/iNOS) protein expression, plasma lipoxin A4 and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) were studied. Protein expressions of PI3k-Akt-mTOR pathway along with histopathological studies of brain were also evaluated.

RESULTS

NA-STZ-induced type 2 DM rats showed hyperglycemia, enhanced plasma IL-6/TNF-α (p ≤0.01), reduced plasma BDNF (p ≤0.01) and LXA4 (p ≤0.01) levels and low BDNF in pancreatic, hepatic and brain tissues (p <0.001), which were restored to near normal (p ≤0.01) in RvD1 treated group. RvD1 increased insulin sensitivity by suppressing inflammation (NF-κB/iNOS) (p ≤0.01) and decreasing apoptosis (Bcl2/Bax) and restoring BDNF and LXA4 levels to near normal. RvD1 treatment increased phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473), and subsequent activation (phosphorylation) of downstream signaling molecules of PI3K and mTOR indicating that RvD1 acts through PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis.

DISCUSSION

RvD1 is effective in preventing NA-STZ-induced type 2 DM in vivo by suppressing oxidative damage, enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory LXA4 and enhancing neuronal cell survival by augmenting the production of BDNF. Thus, RvD1 may be of benefit not only in preventing diabetes mellitus but also diabetes associated Alzheimer's disease and memory loss.

Oleic acid protects against cadmium induced cardiac and hepatic tissue injury in male Wistar rats: A mechanistic study

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible antioxidant role of oleic acid (OA) against Cd-induced injuries in the heart and liver tissues of male Wistar rats.

MAIN METHODS

Rats were treated with either vehicle (control), or OA (10 mg/kg b.w., fed orally), or Cd (0.44 mg/kg b.w., s.c.), or both (OA + Cd) for 15 days. Following completion of the treatment period, biomarkers of organ damage and oxidative stress including ROS, activities of antioxidant enzymes and their level, activities of Krebs cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes were measured. Levels of interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) were estimated to evaluate the state of inflammation. In addition, changes in mitochondrial membrane potential and status of cytochrome c (Cyt c) were also studied.

KEY FINDINGS

Pre-treatment of rats with OA significantly protected against Cd-induced detrimental changes possibly by decreasing endogenous ROS through regulation of antioxidant defense system, inflammatory responses and activities of metabolic enzymes. Moreover, OA was also found to restore mitochondrial membrane potential possibly by regulating Cyt c leakage thereby increasing mitochondrial viability.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results for the first time demonstrated systematically that OA provided protection against Cd-induced oxidative stress mediated injuries in rat heart and liver tissues through its antioxidant mechanism. The results raise the possibility of using OA singly or in combination with other antioxidants or diet in the treatment of situations arising due to oxidative stress and may have future therapeutic relevance.

Tlr1-13, Nod1/2 and antimicrobial gene expression in the epididymis and testis of rats with alloxan-induced diabetes

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as toll-like receptors (TLRs) and nuclear oligomerization domain (NOD) receptors along with antimicrobial proteins and peptides (AMPs) are crucial for innate immunity. The pathology of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is associated with the disrupted expression of TLRs, NODs and AMPs in the kidney, lungs and other organs. However, such a relation in the male reproductive tract is not yet investigated. In this study, we analysed the expression pattern of Tlr1-13, Nod1/2 receptors and AMPs (β-defensins and defensin-like proteins of the Sperm-Associated Antigen 11 (Spag11) family) in the male reproductive tissues (caput, cauda and testis) obtained from diabetic or insulin-treated diabetic or untreated control rats. Alterations in the expression pattern of Tlr1-13, Nod 1/ 2, Defb1, 2, 21, 24, 27, 30 and Spag11a/ c/ t were observed under diabetic conditions. Administration of insulin to diabetic rats could modulate the expression pattern of only some these genes. Results of our study indicate perturbed gene expression profile of Tlrs, Nod1/2, Defbs and Spag11 isoforms in the epididymis and testis of diabetic rats, and this could be one of the important reasons for the increased risk of infections in the male genital tract.

Arachidonic acid-rich ARASCO oil has anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic actions against streptozotocin + high fat diet induced diabetes mellitus in Wistar rats

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of arachidonic acid (AA)-rich ARASCO oil on high-fat diet (HFD) + streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes mellitus in male Wistar rats and its possible mechanisms of action.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats with HFD + STZ-induced diabetes were employed in the present study. ARASCO oil was administered orally for the first 7 d consecutively, followed by once weekly throughout the study (14 wk). At various time points, blood glucose and body weight and oral glucose tolerance tests were measured. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed to collect plasma and various organs and stored at -80°C. Plasma insulin, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and lipoxin A4 were measured. Expression of the following genes was determined: nuclear factor-κΒ (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) in pancreas and lipocalin 2 (LPCLN2) in adipose tissue. Various antioxidants were measured in the plasma and other tissues. Area under the curve and insulin sensitivity index were assessed by computing homeostatic model of assessment for insulin resistance, quantitative insulin check index, Matsuda, and Belfiore indices.

RESULTS

ARASCO oil treatment decreased hyperglycemia, restored insulin sensitivity, suppressed inflammation, enhanced plasma lipoxin A4 levels, and reversed altered antioxidant status to near normal in animals with HFD + STZ-induced diabetes.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that ARASCO, a rich source of AA, can prevent HFD + STZ-induced diabetes in Wistar rats owing to its anti-inflammatory action. It remains to be seen whether ARASCO oil is useful in preventing or postponing the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in humans.

A new method to evaluate the dose-effect relationship of a TCM formula Gegen Qinlian Decoction: "Focus" mode of integrated biomarkers

It is difficult to accurately evaluate the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which leads to the uncertainty and complexity of dose-effect analysis. In this study we established the "Focus" mode of biomarkers to characterize the dose-effect relationship of Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD), a TCM formula for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (2-DM). A rat model of 2-DM was established through high fat diet feeding combined with low-dose STZ injection. Rats with 2-DM were administered high, middle or low doses (6.785, 4.071, 1.357 mg·kg^-1·d^-1, respectively) of GQD extract for 60 d. Metformin (300 mg·kg^-1·d^-1) was taken as the positive control. Blood samples were collected to assess serum biochemical indexes and metabolic profiling. After "Focus" analysis, the biochemical index triglycerides (TG) and insulin sensitivity (ISI) were identified as focused integrated biomarkers (FIBs), while arachidonic acid and docosatetraenoic acid were the metabolic FIBs. Dose-effect relationship curves of GQD were built based on these types of FIBs. Furthermore, the two dose-effect relationship curves showed similar trends with the middle dosage displaying the greatest efficacy, suggesting that insulin function and arachidonic acid metabolism played important roles in 2-DM and the responses to GQD. The metabolic FIB docosatetraenoic should be further explored for understanding its involvement in the process of 2-DM occurrence and the treatment. This "Focus" mode provides a novel strategy to evaluate the dose-effect relationship of a TCM. The system and concepts established here may also be applicable for assessing the dose-effect relationships of Western medicines.

Arachidonic acid and lipoxin A4 attenuate alloxan-induced cytotoxicity to RIN5F cells in vitro and type 1 diabetes mellitus in vivo

OBJECTIVE

We studied whether polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can protect rat insulinoma (RIN5F) cells against alloxan-induced apoptosis in vitro and type 1 diabetes mellitus (type 1 DM) in vivo and if so, mechanism of this beneficial action.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In vitro study was conducted using RIN5F cells while in vivo study was performed in Wistar rats. The effect of PUFAs, cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors, various eicosanoids and PUFAs metabolites: lipoxin A4 (LXA4), resolvin D2 and protectin against alloxan-induced cytotoxicity to RIN5F cells and type 1 DM was studied. Expression of PDX1, P65 NF-kB and IKB in RIN5F cells and Nrf2, GLUT2, COX2, iNOS protein levels in the pancreatic tissue and plasma glucose, insulin and tumor necrosis factor-α and antioxidants, lipid peroxides and nitric oxide were measured.

RESULTS

Of all, arachidonic acid (AA) was found to be the most effective against alloxan-induced cytotoxicity to RIN5F cells and preventing type 1 DM. Both cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors did not block the beneficial actions of AA in vitro and in vivo. Alloxan inhibited LXA4 production by RIN5F cells and in alloxan-induced type 1 DM Wistar rats. AA-treatment restored LXA4 levels to normal both in vitro and in vivo. LXA4 protected RIN5F cells against alloxan-induced cytotoxicity and prevented type 1 DM and restored expression of Nrf2, Glut2, COX2, and iNOS genes and abnormal antioxidants to near normal.

DISCUSSION

AA seems to bring about its beneficial actions against alloxan-induced cytotoxicity and type 1 DM by enhancing the production of LXA4. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):251-271, 2017.

Silymarin Protects Mouse Liver and Kidney from Thioacetamide Induced Toxicity by Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species and Activating PI3K-Akt Pathway

Silymarin (SMN) has been shown to possess a wide range of biological and pharmacological effects. Besides, SMN has antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. Thioacetamide (TAA) is a well-documented liver toxin that requires oxidative bioactivation to elicit its hepatotoxic effect which ultimately modifies amine-lipids and proteins. Our study has been designed in a TAA exposed mouse model to investigate whether SMN could protect TAA-induced oxidative stress mediated hepatic and renal damage. Results suggest that TAA generated reactive oxygen species (ROS), caused oxidative stress and induced apoptosis in the liver and kidney cells via JNK as well as PKC and MAPKs signaling. All these detrimental effects of TAA could, however, be suppressed by SMN which not only scavenged ROS but also induced PI3K-Akt cell survival pathway in the liver and prevented apoptotic pathways in both the organs. Histological studies, collagen staining and DNA fragmentation analysis also supported our results. Combining, we say that SMN possess beneficial role against TAA mediated hepatic and renal pathophysiology.

Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) and nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) modulate metabolic and inflammatory markers in a spontaneous type 2 diabetes mellitus model (Stillman Salgado rats)

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex disease with alterations in metabolic and inflammatory markers. Stillman Salgado rats (eSS) spontaneously develop type 2 DM by middle age showing progressive impairment of glucose tolerance with hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperinsulinemia. We analyzed the effects of supplementation of ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) with or without nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) added, an antioxidant and lipoxygenase inhibitor, on metabolic and inflammatory parameters in eSS rats to evaluate whether they can delay development and/or prevent progression of DM.

METHODS

After weaning, eSS rats received, intraperitoneally, once a month ω-3 (EPA 35% and DHA 40%-6.25 mg/Kg) or ω-6 (90% arachidonic acid- 6. 25 mg/Kg) for twelve months. Two additional groups of rats received 1.9 mg/kg NDGA added to ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids. Blood samples were collected at day 40, and at the end of the 6th month and 12th month of age to determine plasma triglycerides (TGs), total plasma fatty acids (FA), A1C hemoglobin (HbA1C), C-reactive protein (CRP), gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), lipo and hydro peroxides, nitrites and IL-6 (in plasma and liver, kidney, and pancreas) and underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as well. Wistar and eSS rats that received saline solution were used as controls.

RESULTS

Plasma lipids profile, TG, fasting and post-prandial blood glucose levels, and glycosylated HbA1C showed significant improvements in ω-3 and ω-3 + NDGA treated animals compared to eSS control group. ω-3 and ω-3 + NDGA groups showed an inverse correlation with fasting blood glucose and showed lower plasma levels of GGT, TG, and CRP. eSS rats treated with ω-3 LCPUFAs showed reduced level of inflammatory and oxidative indices in plasma and liver, kidney and pancreas tissues in comparison with eSS control (non-treated) and ω-6 treated groups.

CONCLUSIONS

eSS rats are a useful model to study type 2 DM pathophysiology and related inflammatory indices. ω-3 + NDGA supplementation, at the doses tested, ameliorated inflammatory, metabolic and oxidative stress markers studied.

Flaxseed Protects Against Diabetes-Induced Glucotoxicity by Modulating Pentose Phosphate Pathway and Glutathione-Dependent Enzyme Activities in Rats

This study investigated the effects of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) intake on general metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) and glutathione-dependent enzymes in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection (40 mg/kg, i.p.) and the enzyme activities were determined spectrophotometrically. Diabetic and control rats were divided in two subgroups, one untreated, and one treated with flaxseed (0.714 g/kg body weight/day; orally) for 12 weeks. Flaxseed ameliorated decreased body weight (p < .05) and increased blood glucose (p < .001), triglyceride (p < .001), ALT (p < .001) and AST (p < .001) in diabetic rats. Diabetes resulted in increased glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) (p < .05) and decreased glutathione-S-transferase (GST) (p < .01), but unchanged 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) and glutathione reductase (GR) in the brain of rats. These alterations were partially improved by flaxseed in comparison to diabetic untreated group (p < .05). G6PD, 6PGD, GR were elevated (p < .001), while GST unchanged in the lung of diabetic untreated group compared to control. Flaxseed partially prevented the increase in 6PGD (p < .05) and GR (p < .01), but unaffected G6PD in the lung of diabetic rats. G6PD (p < .001), 6PGD (p < .05), GR (p < .001) were augmented, while GST showed a significant (p < .001) depletion in the pancreas of diabetic untreated rats compared to control. Diabetic alterations observed in pancreatic enzyme activities were significantly prevented by flaxseed. Furthermore, a remarkable decrease in 6PGD (p < .001) and an increase in G6PD (threefold of control) were found in the lens of diabetic untreated group that were completely prevented by flaxseed (p < .001). Flaxseed has beneficial effects against diabetes-induced glucotoxicity by modulating G6PD, 6PGD, GR and GST activities in tissues.

Curcumin protects rat liver from streptozotocin-induced diabetic pathophysiology by counteracting reactive oxygen species and inhibiting the activation of p53 and MAPKs mediated stress response pathways

Curcumin (CUR) is a highly pleiotropic molecule and possesses anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antioxidative, wound-healing and antimicrobial activities. The present study was carried out to investigate whether CUR plays any beneficial role in streptozotocin (STZ) induced hepatic pathophysiology in diabetic rats. STZ exposure increased hepatic damage associated serum markers (ALT, ALP and LDH) as well as NO production in the liver tissue. Moreover, the same exposure enhanced ROS generation and lipid peroxidation; reduced GSH levels and antioxidant enzyme activities. Hyperglycemia induced hepatic pathophysiology also activated stress response pathways (involving phosphorylation of p38, ERK1/2 MAPKs and p53) and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential which in turn led to cellular apoptosis as evidenced from increased hepatic DNA fragmentation as well as FACS analysis. However, treatment with CUR effectively counteracts diabetes-induced, oxidative stress mediated hepatic damage and could act as a therapeutic in lessening liver dysfunction in diabetic subjects.

Linoleic and alpha linolenic acids ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetes in mice

Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in mice progresses with decreased desaturase activities and alterations in the metabolism of essential fatty acids (EFA).

OBJECTIVES

Based on our previous studies with soybean oil that ameliorated the STZ damage in mice, we tested here the accountability of its main EFA components, i.e. linoleic acid (LA) and alpha linolenic acid (ALA), in the prevention of pancreas damage and Δ6 desaturase decrease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seven days after injection with STZ and EFA gavage, ICR mice were sacrificed. Plasma glucose and insulin levels, pancreas histology and liver fatty acid desaturases were analysed.

RESULTS

EFA reduced pancreas damage, insulin and glucose plasma levels and restored Δ6 desaturase activity and mRNA expression levels.

DISCUSSION

By reducing pancreas damage, EFA ameliorated insulin levels, Δ6 desaturase and fatty acid metabolism. LA further enhanced Fads2 promoter activity.

CONCLUSION

EFA ameliorate STZ induced diabetes in mice.

Taurine ameliorates alloxan-induced diabetic renal injury, oxidative stress-related signaling pathways and apoptosis in rats

Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress plays a vital role in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. The renoprotective nature of taurine has also been reported earlier; but little is known about the mechanism of this beneficial action. The present study has, therefore, been carried out to explore in detail the mechanism of the renoprotective effect of taurine under diabetic conditions. Diabetes was induced in rats by alloxan (single i.p. dose of 120 mg/kg body weight) administration. Taurine was administered orally for 3 weeks (1% w/v in drinking water) either from the day on which alloxan was injected or after the onset of diabetes. Alloxan-induced diabetic rats showed a significant increase in plasma glucose, enhanced the levels of renal damage markers, plasma creatinine, urea nitrogen and urinary albumin. Diabetic renal injury was associated with increased kidney weight to body weight ratio and glomerular hypertrophy. Moreover, it increased the productions of reactive oxygen species, enhanced lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation in association with decreased intracellular antioxidant defense in the kidney tissue. In addition, hyperglycemia enhanced the levels of proinflammatory cytokins (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and Na(+)--K(+)-ATPase activity with a concomitant reduction in NO content and eNOS expression in diabetic kidney. Investigation of the oxidative stress-responsive signaling cascades showed the upregulation of PKCα, PKCβ, PKCε and MAPkinases in the renal tissue of the diabetic animals. However, taurine administration decreased the elevated blood glucose and proinflammatory cytokine levels, reduced renal oxidative stress (via decrease in xanthine oxidase activity, AGEs formation and inhibition of p47phox/CYP2E1 pathways), improved renal function and protected renal tissue from alloxan-induced apoptosis via the regulation of Bcl-2 family and caspase-9/3 proteins. Taurine supplementation in regular diet could, therefore, be beneficial to regulate diabetes-associated renal complications.

Effect of essential fatty acids on glucose-induced cytotoxicity to retinal vascular endothelial cells

Background

Diabetic retinopathy is a major complication of dysregulated hyperglycemia. Retinal vascular endothelial cell dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Studies showed that hyperglycemia-induced excess proliferation of retinal vascular endothelial cells can be abrogated by docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 ω-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5 ω-3). The influence of dietary omega-3 PUFA on brain zinc metabolism has been previously implied. Zn²⁺ is essential for the activity of Δ⁶ desaturase as a co-factor that, in turn, converts essential fatty acids to their respective long chain metabolites. Whether essential fatty acids (EFAs) α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid have similar beneficial effect remains poorly understood.

Methods

RF/6A cells were treated with different concentrations of high glucose, α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid and Zn²⁺. The alterations in mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase enzyme activity, cell membrane fluidity, reactive oxygen species generation, SOD enzyme and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion were evaluated.

Results

Studies showed that hyperglycemia-induced excess proliferation of retinal vascular endothelial cells can be abrogated by both linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA), while the saturated fatty acid, palmitic acid was ineffective. A dose–response study with ALA showed that the activity of the mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase enzyme was suppressed at all concentrations of glucose tested to a significant degree. High glucose enhanced fluorescence polarization and microviscocity reverted to normal by treatment with Zn²⁺ and ALA. ALA was more potent that Zn²⁺. Increased level of high glucose caused slightly increased ROS generation that correlated with corresponding decrease in SOD activity. ALA suppressed ROS generation to a significant degree in a dose dependent fashion and raised SOD activity significantly. ALA suppressed high-glucose-induced VEGF secretion by RF/6A cells.

Conclusions

These results suggest that EFAs such as ALA and LA may have beneficial action in the prevention of high glucose-induced cellular damage.

Dietary lipid-dependent regulation of de novo lipogenesis and lipid partitioning by ketogenic essential amino acids in mice

Background:

We have previously reported that dietary ketogenic amino acids (KAAs) modulate hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and prevent hepatic steatosis in mice. However, the dependence of the metabolic phenotypes generated by KAA on the type of dietary lipid source remains unclear.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of KAA combined with different dietary lipid sources on hepatic DNL and tissue lipid partitioning in mice.

Design:

We compared three different KAA-supplemented diets, in which a portion of the dietary protein was replaced by five major essential amino acids (Leu, Ile, Val, Lys and Thr) in high-fat diets based on palm oil (PO), high-oleic safflower oil (FO) or soy oil (SO). To compare the effects of these diets in C57B6 mice, the differential regulation of DNL and dietary lipid partitioning due to KAA was assessed using stable isotopic flux analysis.

Results:

The different dietary oils showed strikingly different patterns of lipid partitioning and accumulation in tissues. High-PO diets increased both hepatic and adipose triglycerides (TG), whereas high-FO and high-SO diets increased hepatic and adipose TG, respectively. Stable isotopic flux analysis revealed high rates of hepatic DNL in high-PO and high-FO diets, whereas it was reduced in the high-SO diet. KAA supplementation in high-PO and high-FO diets reduced hepatic TG by reducing the DNL of palmitate and the accumulation of dietary oleate. However, KAA supplementation in the high-SO diet failed to reduce hepatic DNL and TG. Interestingly, KAA reduced SO-induced accumulation of hepatic linoleate and enhanced SO-induced accumulation of dietary oleate.

Conclusions:

Overall, the reduction of hepatic TG by KAA is dependent on dietary lipid sources and occurs through the modulation of DNL and altered partitioning of dietary lipids. The current results provide further insight into the underlying mechanisms of hepatic lipid reduction by amino acids.

Current and emerging strategies for the treatment and management of systemic lupus erythematosus based on molecular signatures of acute and chronic inflammation

Lupus is a chronic, systemic inflammatory condition in which eicosanoids, cytokines, nitric oxide (NO), a deranged immune system, and genetics play a significant role. Our studies revealed that an imbalance in the pro- and antioxidants and NO and an alteration in the metabolism of essential fatty acids exist in lupus. The current strategy of management includes administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids. Investigational drugs include the following: 1) belimumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes and inhibits the biological activity of B-lymphocyte stimulator, also known as B-cell-activation factor of the TNF family; 2) stem cell transplantation; 3) rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD20, which is primarily found on the surface of B-cells and can therefore destroy B-cells; and 4) IL-27, which has potent anti-inflammatory actions. Our studies showed that a regimen of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, and methods designed to enhance endothelial NO synthesis and augment antioxidant defenses, led to induction of long-lasting remission of the disease. These results suggest that methods designed to modulate molecular signatures of the disease process and suppress inflammation could be of significant benefit in lupus. Some of these strategies could be vagal nerve stimulation, glucose-insulin infusion, and administration of lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and nitrolipids by themselves or their stable synthetic analogs that are known to suppress inflammation and help in the resolution and healing of the inflammation-induced damage. These strategies are likely to be useful not only in lupus but also in other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, ischemia-reperfusion injury to the myocardium, ischemic heart disease, and sepsis.

Obesity: genes, brain, gut, and environment

Obesity, which is assuming alarming proportions, has been attributed to genetic factors, hypothalamic dysfunction, and intestinal gut bacteria and an increase in the consumption of energy-dense food. Obesity predisposes to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and certain forms of cancer. Recent studies have shown that the intestinal bacteria in obese humans and mice differ from those in lean that could trigger a low-grade systemic inflammation. Consumption of a calorie-dense diet that initiates and perpetuates obesity could be due to failure of homeostatic mechanisms that regulate appetite, food consumption, and energy balance. Hypothalamic factors that regulate energy needs of the body, control appetite and satiety, and gut bacteria that participate in food digestion play a critical role in the onset of obesity. Incretins, cholecystokinin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, leptin, long-chain fatty acid coenzyme A, endocannabinoids and vagal neurotransmitter acetylcholine play a role in the regulation of energy intake, glucose homeostasis, insulin secretion, and pathobiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Thus, there is a cross-talk among the gut, liver, pancreas, adipose tissue, and hypothalamus. Based on these evidences, it is clear that management of obesity needs a multifactorial approach.

Fish oil and argan oil intake differently modulate insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in a rat model of dietary-induced obesity

We investigated the potential metabolic benefits of fish oil (FO) or vegetable argan oil (AO) intake in a dietary model of obesity-linked insulin resistance. Rats were fed a standard chow diet (controls), a high-fat/high-sucrose (HFHS) diet, or an HFHS diet in which 6% of the fat was replaced by either FO or AO feeding, respectively. The HFHS diet increased adipose tissue weight and insulin resistance as revealed by increased fasting glucose and exaggerated glycemic and insulin responses to a glucose tolerance test (intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test). Fish oil feeding prevented fat accretion, reduced fasting glycemia, and normalized glycemic or insulin responses to intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test as compared with HFHS diet. Unlike FO consumption, AO intake failed to prevent obesity, yet restored fasting glycemia back to chow-fed control values. Insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt and Erk in adipose tissues, skeletal muscles, and liver was greatly attenuated in HFHS rats as compared with chow-fed controls. High-fat/high-sucrose diet-induced insulin resistance was also confirmed in isolated hepatocytes. Fish oil intake prevented insulin resistance by improving or fully restoring insulin signaling responses in all tissues and isolated hepatocytes. Argan oil intake also improved insulin-dependent phosphorylations of Akt and Erk; and in adipose tissue, these responses were increased even beyond values observed in chow-fed controls. Taken together, these results strongly support the beneficial action of FO on diet-induced insulin resistance and glucose intolerance, an effect likely explained by the ability of FO to prevent HFHS-induced adiposity. Our data also show for the first time that AO can improve some of the metabolic and insulin signaling abnormalities associated with HFHS feeding.

Lipid characterization of Mortierella alpina grown at different NaCl concentrations

Effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration on the lipid and fatty acid profiles of the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-producing fungus, Mortierella alpina SC9, were investigated. The cells were cultivated in the medium with 4 different NaCl concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4%) for 6 days. The lipid and fatty acid profiles were analyzed by thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography. In the cultures with NaCl concentration up to 2%, PUFAs accounted for over 50% of the total fatty acids (TFAs) of the cells. Triacylglycerol (TAG) was the major lipid class, followed by monoacylglycerol (MAG) and diacylglycerol (DAG). TAG was found to contain the highest proportion of arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6, AA), suggesting that AA was mainly stored in the TAG. Comparing cultures at different NaCl concentrations indicated that TFA and TAG contents were higher in the cells grown at 2% NaCl. Similar results were found when 2% NaCl was added at day 3 of cultivation (late-log phase). In addition, the gene expression level of a TAG biosynthesis enzyme, diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2), was also higher in the NaCl treated cells. This suggested that the increase of TFA and TAG contents might be related to the NaCl-stimulated DGAT2 expression.

Can endogenous lipid molecules serve as predictors and prognostic markers of coronary heart disease?

Dyslipidemia, and inflammatory markers: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), lipoprotein associated phospholipase A₂(Lp-PLA₂), and lipid peroxides (LP) are insufficient to predict the onset, extent, and prognosis of CHD. Lipoxins (LXs), resolvins, and protectins are derived from ω-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and ω-6 arachidonic acid in the presence of aspirin; whereas nitrolipids are formed due to the interaction between polyunsaturated fatty acids and nitric oxide (NO). LXs, resolvins, protectins, and nitrolipids are endogenous anti-inflammatory lipid molecules that inhibit production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α), suppress free radical generation, enhance NO generation; and accelerate tissue repair. Thus, beneficial actions of EPA/DHA and aspirin in CHD could be attributed to the formation of LXs, resolvins, protectins, and nitrolipids and suggest that their plasma levels aid in the prediction and prognosis of CHD.

Anti-Apoptotic Effects of Arachidonic Acid and Prostaglandin E2 in Pancreatic β-Cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The polyunsaturated fatty acid arachidonic acid (AA) has been implicated in beta-cell defence mechanisms and prostaglandin (PG) products of cyclooxygenase (COX) 2 action confer resistance to alloxan-induced apoptosis in insulin-secreting RIN cells. We have now investigated the anti-apoptotic effects of AA and its metabolite, PGE(2), in the MIN6 mouse insulin-secreting beta-cell line and mouse islets.

METHODS

Apoptosis was determined in MIN6 beta-cell and mouse islet extracts by measurement of capase-3 activity, and COX2 mRNA levels were quantified by real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Exposure of MIN6 cells to AA (3.1-12.5 microM) caused concentration-dependent reductions in apoptosis, and similar results were obtained when endogenous AA levels were elevated in cytosolic phospholipase A(2)-overexpressing MIN6 cells. 25mM glucose caused both a significant up-regulation of MIN6 cell COX2 mRNA levels and a decrease in apoptosis. Inhibition of MIN6 cell COX2 activity with a selective inhibitor, NS-398 (10-100 microM), increased apoptosis and exogenous PGE(2) (0.2-5 microM) reduced NS-398-induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. The protective effects of AA and PGE(2) were also observed in primary mouse islets.

CONCLUSION

These data show that AA and its COX2-generated metabolite, PGE(2), can protect beta-cells from apoptosis.

Can essential fatty acids reduce the burden of disease(s)?

Coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cancer, depression schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and collagen vascular diseases are low-grade systemic inflammatory conditions that are a severe burden on health care resources. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) and their metabolites: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), and arachidonic acid (AA) and their products: prostaglandin E₁, prostacyclin, lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins suppress inflammation, augment healing, and are of benefit in the prevention and management of these conditions. Hence, supplementation of EFAs could reduce burden of these disease(s).

Proposal open for discussion: defining agreed diagnostic procedures in experimental diabetes research

BACKGROUND

Animal experimentation has a long tradition in diabetes research and has provided invaluable benefits with regard to insulin discovery and treatment assessment.

METHODS

The review focuses on chemical-induced diabetes in rats and surveys the protocols of diabetes induction, diabetes diagnosis, and glucose tolerance evaluation in a selection of recent research.

RESULTS

This brief review of techniques in experimental diabetes highlights that there is no uniformity, whereas standardisation of procedures is desirable so that comparability will exist among experiments carried out in different settings.

CONCLUSIONS

On this basis, questions are put and standards are proposed. It would be a platform to promote the exchange of ideas through expert consultation about practical issues related to animal research and a basis on which standards can be set according to user requirements and animal respect.

A defect in the activity of Delta6 and Delta5 desaturases may be a factor in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a dynamic process. Dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, and shear stress of blood flow, the risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis, are characterized by abnormalities in the metabolism of essential fatty acids (EFAs). Gene expression profiling studies revealed that at the sites of atheroslcerosis-prone regions, endothelial cells showed upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes as well as antioxidant genes, and endothelial cells themselves showed changes in cell shape and proliferation. Uncoupled respiration (UCP-1) precedes atherosclerosis at lesion-prone sites but not at the sites that are resistant to atherosclerosis. UCP-1 expression in aortic smooth muscle cells causes hypertension, enhanced superoxide anion production and decreased the availability of NO, suggesting that inefficient metabolism in blood vessels causes atherosclerosis without affecting cholesterol levels. Thus, mitochondrial dysfunction triggers atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis-free aortae have abundant concentrations of the EFA-linoleate, whereas fatty streaks (an early stage of atherosclerosis) are deficient in EFAs. EFA deficiency promotes respiratory uncoupling and atherosclerosis. I propose that a defect in the activity of Delta6 and Delta5 desaturases decreases the formation of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-DGLA (DGLA), arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from dietary linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This, in turn, leads to inadequate formation of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), prostacyclin (PGI2), PGI3, lipoxins (LXs), resolvins, neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1), NO, and nitrolipids that have anti-inflammatory and platelet anti-aggregatory actions, inhibit leukocyte activation and augment wound healing and resolve inflammation and thus, lead to the initiation and progression atheroslcerosis. In view of this, it is suggested that Delta6 and Delta5 desaturases could serve as biological target(s) for the discovery and development of pharmaceuticals to treat atherosclerosis.