Old Paradoxes and New Opportunities for Appetite Control in Obesity

Acyl-CoA binding protein (ACBP) in Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii Brandt): Characterization, synthesis and orexigenic function

Acyl-CoA binding protein (ACBP) exhibits the activity of autophagy and lipid metabolism regulation in mammals, but its indispensable role in appetite regulation has received great attention in recent years. However, its feeding regulation function in fish is unclear. In this study, we cloned the acbp gene of Siberian Sturgeon (Abacbp) which possesses high homology with those of other vertebrate species and extremely high expression in duodenum and hypothalamus. Interestingly, Abacbp mRNA was significantly increased by short-term fasting but decreased after long-term fasting and recovered after refeeding, suggesting its latent ability in appetite regulation and compensatory growth (CG). Moreover, intraperitoneal injection of Siberian sturgeon ACBP protein (AbACBP) promoted food intake and the expressions of anorexigenic factors were down-regulated and the orexigenic factors were up-regulated. In addition, the specific receptor of ACBP regulating feeding has yet to be identified. Still, our present study found that peripheral AbACBP caused the upregulation of cb1r and the inhibition of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR-S6k signal pathway in the hypothalamus. In conclusion, the research first explored the appetite-stimulating function and mechanism of ACBP. It is of great value to construct the expression strain to produce the appetite-promoting protein ACBP in large quantities for promoting the appetite of farmed animals.

Expandable konjac fiber modulates appetite and chyme digestion in vivo by stomach-intestine-brain axis

Appetite regulation is a lifestyle intervention strategy to maintain health. The regulatory effects of dietary fiber (especially insoluble dietary fiber), as a crucial element of the nutritional composition, on appetite remain poorly understood. This study investigated modulatory effects of konjac fiber (KF, with high and low expansion) and konjac powder (KP) on chyme digestion, gastrointestinal hormones, intestinal microbiota, appetite genes in hypothalamus, GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) protein in various tissues of rats by dietary intervention. The results showed that highly-expanded konjac fiber (HKF) significantly delayed gastric emptying and inhibited hydrolysis of chyme. Konjac fiber (KF), especially HKF, and KP increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content and plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. HKF upregulated the expression of GLP-1R protein in rat stomachs, nucleus tractus solitaries (NTS), and area postrema (AP) of rat brain, but down-regulated the expression of appetite gene AgRP/NPY in hypothalamus, thus, inhibiting appetite, reducing daily food intake and weight gain. Overall, this study reveals the mechanism through which expandable konjac fiber modulates appetite and chyme digestion in vivo by stomach-intestine-brain axis. Our findings provide an insight into the regulatory effects of insoluble dietary fiber on appetite and offered a valuable reference for the development of satiety-enhancing functional foods.

A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study: Could Asprosin and Peptide Tyrosine-Tyrosine Be Used in Schizophrenia to Define the Disease and Determine Its Phases?

Background/Objectives: We aimed to evaluate asprosin and peptide tyrosine-tyrosine (PYY) levels in schizophrenia patients and the relationships between these levels and clinical severity, as well as whether these two hormones have a role in determining the disease and/or the phases of the disease. Methods: This study included 50 patients with schizophrenia in the remission phase, 50 in the acute phase, and 50 controls. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was filled out for patients. The patients' biochemical parameters and asprosin and PYY levels were measured. Results: Levels of asprosin and PYY were significantly different in all three groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). In the remission phase group, asprosin levels had a negative effect on PANSS general symptomatology scores (p: 0.002, p < 0.001). In the acute phase group, while PYY levels showed a negative effect on PANSS general symptomatology scores (p: 0.031), asprosin levels had a negative effect on all subscales of PANSS (p < 0.001). In the acute phase, a one-unit decrease in asprosin levels was associated with a 93% increase in PANSS total scores. The results of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to distinguish the acute phase showed that PYY could not be used for diagnosis (p: 0.066), but asprosin was associated with the acute phase of schizophrenia (p < 0.001) and both asprosin and PYY were associated with the disease (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Conclusions: We think that both asprosin and PYY can be used as potential biomarkers to identify schizophrenia, and only asprosin to identify the phases of the disease. PYY and asprosin levels may be markers that can be used to determine clinical severity.

Raptin, a sleep-induced hypothalamic hormone, suppresses appetite and obesity

Sleep deficiency is associated with obesity, but the mechanisms underlying this connection remain unclear. Here, we identify a sleep-inducible hypothalamic protein hormone in humans and mice that suppresses obesity. This hormone is cleaved from reticulocalbin-2 (RCN2), and we name it Raptin. Raptin release is timed by the circuit from vasopressin-expressing neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus to RCN2-positive neurons in the paraventricular nucleus. Raptin levels peak during sleep, which is blunted by sleep deficiency. Raptin binds to glutamate metabotropic receptor 3 (GRM3) in neurons of the hypothalamus and stomach to inhibit appetite and gastric emptying, respectively. Raptin-GRM3 signaling mediates anorexigenic effects via PI3K-AKT signaling. Of note, we verify the connections between deficiencies in the sleeping state, impaired Raptin release, and obesity in patients with sleep deficiency. Moreover, humans carrying an RCN2 nonsense variant present with night eating syndrome and obesity. These data define a unique hormone that suppresses food intake and prevents obesity.

Atlas of expression of acyl CoA binding protein/diazepam binding inhibitor (ACBP/DBI) in human and mouse

Acyl CoA binding protein encoded by diazepam binding inhibitor (ACBP/DBI) is a tissue hormone that stimulates lipo-anabolic responses and inhibits autophagy, thus contributing to aging and age-related diseases. Protein expression profiling of ACBP/DBI was performed on mouse tissues to identify organs in which this major tissue hormone is expressed. Transcriptomic and proteomic data bases corroborated a high level of human-mouse interspecies conservation of ACBP/DBI expression in different organs. Single-cell RNA-seq data confirmed that ACBP/DBI was strongly expressed by parenchymatous cells from specific human and mouse organs (e.g., kidney, large intestine, liver, lung) as well as by myeloid or glial cells from other organs (e.g., adipose tissue, brain, eye) following a pattern that was conserved among the two species. We identified a panel of 44 mRNAs that are strongly co-expressed with ACBP/DBI mRNA in normal and malignant human and normal mouse tissues. Of note, 22 (50%) of these co-expressed mRNAs encode proteins localized at mitochondria, and mRNAs with metabolism-related functions are strongly overrepresented (66%). Systematic data mining was performed to identify transcription factors that regulate ACBP/DBI expression in human and mouse. Several transcription factors, including growth response 1 (EGR1), E2F Transcription Factor 1 (E2F1, which interacts with retinoblastoma, RB) and transformation-related protein 53 (TRP53, best known as p53), which are endowed with oncosuppressive effects, consistently repress ACBP/DBI expression as well as its co-expressed mRNAs across multiple datasets, suggesting a mechanistic basis for a coregulation network. Furthermore, we identified multiple transcription factors that transactivate ACBP/DBI gene expression together with its coregulation network. Altogether, this study indicates the existence of conserved mechanisms determining the expression of ACBP/DBI in specific cell types of the mammalian organism.

Serum Asprosin and Peptide Tyrosine Tyrosine (PYY) Levels in Bipolar Disorder

Objective: In our study, we aimed to investigate the differences in metabolic parameters, serum asprosin and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY) levels in a bipolar disorder manic (BD-M) group, a euthymic group and in healthy controls; we also aimed to evaluate the relationship of asprosin and PYY levels with metabolic parameters and psychopathology in patients. Methods: The study included 54 manic patients, 40 euthymic patients and 39 healthy controls. The sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were recorded, and biochemical parameters and asprosin and PYY levels were measured. The Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) were completed. Results: Body mass index (BMI) showed significant differences between the three groups (p < 0.001); the lowest was found in the control group and the highest in the euthymic group. Triglyceride levels were significantly higher in the euthymic group compared with the BD-M group and controls (p = 0.003). Glucose levels were significantly higher in the BD-M group compared with euthymic (pmanic-euthymic = 0.008) and controls (pmanic-control < 0.001). Asprosin (pmanic-control < 0.001, peuthymic-control = 0.046, pmanic-euthymic = 0.015) and PYY (pmanic-control < 0.001, peuthymic-control = 0.037, pmanic-euthymic = 0.002) levels were significantly different between the three groups, with the lowest levels in the BD-M group and the highest levels in the control group. The eta squared = 0.18 for asprosin and 0.21 for PYY. In the BD-M group, a moderate negative correlation was found between YMRS and asprosin (r = -0.345; p = 0.011) and PYY (r = -0.376; p = 0.005) levels. ROC analysis results showed that asprosin and PYY could be used to predict the manic period in BD-I (AUCasprosin:0.775; AUCPYY:0.760). After adjusting for asprosin as a covariate using ANCOVA, the difference in PYY between groups remained significant (manic-euthymic groups, p = 0.040; manic-control groups, p = 0.013). Conclusions: The study results revealed that asprosin and PYY levels were low, and metabolic parameters were impaired in the patients. Low asprosin and PYY levels may be indicators of impaired energy homeostasis in BD-I. PYY may be a state marker for manic episodes.

Diet Supplementation Influences Ghrelin System Expression in the Skin Appendages of the Sheep

Ghrelin (GhRL) is an orexigenic hormone influenced by nutritional state. It plays a role in skin repair and diseases, though little information exists regarding its function in this organ. GhRL and its receptor were investigated in the skin of sheep under different feeding conditions to explore GhRL system presence and possible modifications due to diet. Three-year-old female sheep were free to graze from June to the pasture maximum flowering (MxF group) and from this period to maximum dryness addicted (Exp group) or not (MxD group) with 600 gr/die/head of barley and corn. Skin samples were processed for immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR. The immunostaining showed the presence of the GhRL system in skin appendages. Indeed, the ligand was localized in the hair follicles whereas the receptor was also observed in sweat glands and smooth muscle cells. The expression of both genes was significantly higher in the Exp group (3.6 and 2.9 folds respectively, p < 0.05) compared with the MxF group. These results suggest that the GhRL system is involved in the regulation of hair follicles and sweat glands. In addition, diet supplementation may positively modulate the expression of GhRL and its receptor in the skin.

Τhiazolidine-4-One Derivatives with Variable Modes of Inhibitory Action Against DPP4, a Drug Target with Multiple Activities and Established Role in Diabetes Mellitus Type II

Background/Objectives: DPP4 is an enzyme with multiple natural substrates and probable involvement in various mechanisms. It constitutes a drug target for the treatment of diabetes II, although, also related to other disorders. While a number of drugs with competitive inhibitory action and covalent binding capacity are available, undesired side effects exist partly attributed to drug kinetics, and research for finding novel, potent, and safer compounds continues. Despite the research, a low number of uncompetitive and non-competitive inhibitors, which could be of worth for pharmaceutical and mechanism studies, was mentioned. Methods: In the present study sixteen 3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-aryl thiazolidin-4-ones were selected for evaluation, based on structural characteristics and docking analysis and were tested in vitro for DPP4 inhibitory action using H-Gly-Pro-amidomethyl coumarin substrate. Their mode of inhibition was also in vitro explored. Results: Twelve compounds exhibited IC50 values at the nM range with the best showing IC50 = 12 ± 0.5 nM, better than sitagliptin. Most compounds exhibited a competitive mode of inhibition. Inhibition modes of uncompetitive, non-competitive, and mixed type were also identified. Docking analysis was in accordance with the in vitro results, with a linear correlation of logIC50 with a Probability of Binding Factor(PF) derived using docking analysis to a specific target box and to the whole enzyme. According to the docking results, two probable sites of binding for uncompetitive inhibitors were highlighted in the wider area of the active site and in the propeller loop. Conclusions: Potent inhibitors with IC50 at the nM range and competitive, non-competitive, uncompetitive, and mixed modes of action, one better than sitagliptin, were found. Docking analysis was used to estimate probable sites and ways of binding. However, crystallographic or NMR studies are needed to elucidate the exact way of binding especially for uncompetitive and non-competitive inhibitors.

Fasting-induced miR-7a-5p in AgRP neurons regulates food intake

OBJECTIVE

The molecular control of feeding after fasting is essential for maintaining energy homeostasis, while overfeeding usually leads to obesity. Identifying non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) that control food intake could reveal new oligonucleotide-based therapeutic targets for treating obesity and its associated diseases. This study aims to identify a miRNA modulating food intake and its mechanism in neuronal regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis.

METHODS

A comprehensive genome-wide miRNA screening in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) of fasted mice and ad libitum mice was performed. Through stereotactic virus injections, intracerebroventricular injections, and miRNA sponge technology, miR-7a-5p was inhibited specifically in AgRP neurons and the central nervous system, and metabolic phenotypes were monitored. Quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, whole-cell patch-clamp recording, and luciferase reporter assay were used to investigate the mechanisms underlying miR-7a-5p's regulation of food intake.

RESULTS

We found a significant increase in miR-7a-5p levels after fasting. miR-7a-5p was highly expressed in the ARC, and inhibition of miR-7a-5p specifically in AgRP neurons reduced food intake and body weight gain. miR-7a-5p inhibited S6K1 gene expression by binding to its 3'-UTR. Furthermore, the knockdown of ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) in AgRP neurons can partially reverse the effects caused by miR-7a-5p inhibition. Importantly, intracerebroventricular administration of the miR-7a-5p inhibitor could also reduce food intake and body weight gain.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that miR-7a-5p responds to energy deficit and regulates food intake by fine-tuning mTOR1/S6K1 signaling in the AgRP neurons, which could be a promising oligonucleotide-based therapeutic target for treating obesity and its associated diseases.

Comparison of the effects of Amomum tsaoko and its adulterants on functional dyspepsia rats based on metabolomics analysis

Amomum tsaoko (AT) is commonly used in clinical practice to treat abdominal distension and pain. It is also a seasoning for cooking, with the functions of appetizing, invigorating the spleen, and being digestive-promoting. Amomum tsaoko (AT) has three adulterants, Amomum paratsaoko (AP), Amomum koenigii (AK), and Alpinia katsumadai Hayata, because of the confusion in historical classics regarding recorded sources as well as the near geographic distribution and fruit morphological similarities. In this study, we established a functional dyspepsia (FD) rat model and then treated it with the corresponding medicinal solutions AT, AP, AK, and AKH. The gastric emptying rate, intestinal propulsion rate, serum biochemical indicators, histopathological changes, and fecal metabolism were measured. The efficacy and mechanism of AT, AP, AK, and AKH in the treatment of FD were compared. Fecal metabolomics revealed that 20 potential biomarkers were involved in seven significant metabolic pathways in FD rats. These pathways include ubiquinone and other terpenoid-quinone biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, purine metabolism, folate biosynthesis, and amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism. AP regulates 6 metabolic pathways, 5 metabolic pathways affected by AT, 4 metabolic pathways affected by AK, and 2 metabolic pathways affected by AKH.The above results suggest that the different effects of AT, AP, AK, and AKH on FD rats may be due to their different regulatory effects on the metabolome.

Obesity-Associated Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) affects approximately 2 million people worldwide. Obesity is the major risk factor for CRC. In addition, obesity contributes to a chronic inflammatory stage that enhances tumor progression through the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. In addition to an increased inflammatory response, obesity-associated cancer presents accrued molecular factors related to cancer characteristics, such as genome instability, sustained cell proliferation, telomere dysfunctions, angiogenesis, and microbial alteration, among others. Despite the evidence accumulated over the last few years, the treatments for obesity-associated CRC do not differ from the CRC treatments in normal-weight individuals. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on obesity-associated cancer, including its epidemiology, risk factors, molecular factors, and current treatments. Finally, we enumerate possible new therapeutic targets that may improve the conditions of obese CRC patients. Obesity is key for the development of CRC, and treatments resulting in the reversal of obesity should be considered as a strategy for improving antineoplastic CRC therapies.

Comparing massa medicata fermentata before and after charred in terms of digestive promoting effect via metabolomics and microbiome analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Massa Medicata Fermentata, a fermented Chinese medicine, is produced by the fermentation of six traditional Chinese medicines. Liu Shenqu (LSQ) and charred Liu Shenqu (CLSQ) have been used for strengthening the spleen and enhancing digestion for over a thousand years, and CLSQ is commonly used in clinical practice. However, it is unclear whether there is a difference in the spleen strengthening and digestion effects between LSQ and CLSQ, as well as their mechanisms of action.

AIM OF STUDY

This study aims to compare the effects of LSQ and CLSQ on the digestive function of functional dyspepsia (FD) rats and reveal their mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SPF grade SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: control group, model group, Liu Shenqu decoction low-dosage (LSQ LD) group, Liu Shenqu decoction high-dosage (LSQ HD) group, charred Liu Shenqu decoction low-dosage (CLSQ LD) group, and charred Liu Shenqu decoction high-dosage (CLSQ HD) group. Rats were injected intraperitoneally with reserpine to create an FD model and then treated by intragastric administration. During this period, record the weight and food intake of the animals. After 18 days of treatment, specimens of the gastric antrum, spleen, and duodenum of rats were taken for pathological staining and immunohistochemical detection of Ghrelin protein expression. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the concentration of relevant gastrointestinal hormones in serum. The 16 S rDNA sequencing method was used to evaluate the effect of cecal contents on the structure of the gut microbiota in experimental rats. Plasma metabolomics analysis was performed using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) to further reveal their mechanism of action.

RESULTS

LSQ and CLSQ improved the pathological tissue histological structure of FD rats and increased the levels of MTL and GAS hormones in serum and the levels of ghrelin in the gastric antrum, spleen, and duodenum, while reducing VIP, CCK, and SP hormone levels. The above results showed that the therapeutic efficacy of CLSQ is better than that of LSQ. Futhermore, the mechanism of action of LSQ and CLSQ were revealed. The 16 S rDNA sequencing results showed that both LSQ and CLSQ can improve the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota. And metabolomic analysis demonstrated that 20 metabolites changed after LSQ treatment, and 16 metabolites underwent continuous changes after CLSQ treatment. Further analysis revealed that LSQ mainly intervened in the metabolic pathways of glycerol phospholipid metabolism and arginine and proline metabolism, but CLSQ mainly intervened in the metabolic pathways of ether lipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Both LSQ and CLSQ can improve functional dyspepsia in FD rats, but CLSQ has a stronger improvement effect on FD. Although their mechanisms of action are all related to regulating gastrointestinal hormone secretion, significantly improving intestinal microbiota disorders, and improving multiple metabolic pathways, but the specific gut microbiota and metabolic pathways they regulate are different.

The missing hallmark of health: psychosocial adaptation

The eight biological hallmarks of health that we initially postulated (Cell. 2021 Jan 7;184(1):33-63) include features of spatial compartmentalization (integrity of barriers, containment of local perturbations), maintenance of homeostasis over time (recycling & turnover, integration of circuitries, rhythmic oscillations) and an array of adequate responses to stress (homeostatic resilience, hormetic regulation, repair & regeneration). These hallmarks affect all eight somatic strata of the human body (molecules, organelles, cells, supracellular units, organs, organ systems, systemic circuitries and meta-organism). Here we postulate that mental and socioeconomic factors must be added to this 8×8 matrix as an additional hallmark of health ("psychosocial adaptation") and as an additional stratum ("psychosocial interactions"), hence building a 9×9 matrix. Potentially, perturbation of each of the somatic hallmarks and strata affects psychosocial factors and vice versa. Finally, we discuss the (patho)physiological bases of these interactions and their implications for mental health improvement.

Are decreased cocaine- and amphetamine regulated transcript and Agouti- related peptide levels associated Eating behavior in medication-free children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder?

This study aimed to investigate plasma levels of cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART), agouti-related protein (AgRP), cholecystokinin (CCK) and peptide YY (PYY) and their relationship with eating behaviors among children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and healthy controls. A total of 94 medication-free children with ADHD and 82 controls aged 8-14 years were included in this study. The Plasma levels of CART, AgRP, CCK and PYY were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) was used to assess eating behaviors in children. CART and AgRP levels were found to be significantly lower in the ADHD group than in the control group, while CCK levels were found to be significantly higher in the ADHD group than in the control group. However, there was no significant difference in PYY levels between the groups. Compared to controls, those with ADHD demonstrated significantly higher scores on the CEBQ subscales of food responsiveness, emotional overeating, desire to drink, enjoyment of food, and food fussiness, and significantly lower scores on the slowness of eating subscale. CART was significantly correlated with emotional overeating and enjoyment of food scores, while AgRP was significantly correlated with emotional undereating scores. Covariance analysis was performed by controlling potential confounders such as body mass index, age and sex, and the results were found to be unchanged. It was concluded that CART, AgRP, and CCK may play a potential role in the pathogenesis of ADHD.

Hallmarks of cardiovascular ageing

Normal circulatory function is a key determinant of disease-free life expectancy (healthspan). Indeed, pathologies affecting the cardiovascular system, which are growing in prevalence, are the leading cause of global morbidity, disability and mortality, whereas the maintenance of cardiovascular health is necessary to promote both organismal healthspan and lifespan. Therefore, cardiovascular ageing might precede or even underlie body-wide, age-related health deterioration. In this Review, we posit that eight molecular hallmarks are common denominators in cardiovascular ageing, namely disabled macroautophagy, loss of proteostasis, genomic instability (in particular, clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential), epigenetic alterations, mitochondrial dysfunction, cell senescence, dysregulated neurohormonal signalling and inflammation. We also propose a hierarchical order that distinguishes primary (upstream) from antagonistic and integrative (downstream) hallmarks of cardiovascular ageing. Finally, we discuss how targeting each of the eight hallmarks might be therapeutically exploited to attenuate residual cardiovascular risk in older individuals.

Drastic decline in vasoactive intestinal peptide expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in obese mice on a long-term high-fat diet

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the main region for the regulation of circadian rhythms. Although the SCN contains a heterogeneous neurochemical phenotype with a wide variety of neuropeptides, a key role has been suggested for the vasoactive intestinal neuropeptide (VIP) as a modulator circadian, reproductive, and seasonal rhythms. VIP is a 28-amino acid polypeptide hormone that belongs to the secretin-glucagon peptide superfamily and shares 68 % homology with the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). VIP acts as an endogenous appetite inhibitor in the central nervous system, where it participates in the control of appetite and energy homeostasis. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to better understand the role of VIP in the regulation of appetite/satiety and energy balance. This study aimed to elucidate the long-term effect of an obesogenic diet on the distribution and expression pattern of VIP in the SCN and nucleus accumbens (NAc) of C57BL/6 mice. A total of 15 female C57BL/6J mice were used in this study. Female mice were fed ad libitum with water and, either a standard diet (SD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce obesity. There were 7 female mice on the SD and 8 on the HFD. The duration of the experiment was 365 days. The morphological study was performed using immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence techniques to study the neurochemical profile of VIP neurons of the SCN of C57BL/6 mice. Our data show that HFD-fed mice gained weight and showed reduced VIP expression in neurons of the SCN and also in fibres located in the NAc. Moreover, we observed a loss of neuropeptide Y (NPY) expression in fibres surrounding the SCN. Our findings on VIP may contribute to the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying obesity in regions associated with uncontrolled intake of high-fat foods and the reward system, thus facilitating the identification of novel therapeutic targets.

RNA sequencing transcriptomics and metabolomics in three poultry breeds

Chickens are remarkably versatile animals that are used as model organisms for biomedical research. Here, we performed metabolomic and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) transcriptomic analyses of the hypothalamus, liver tissue and serum of poultry with different genetic backgrounds, providing detailed information for hypothalamus and liver tissue at the transcriptional level and for liver tissue and serum at the metabolite level. We present two datasets generated from 36 samples from three poultry breeds using high-throughput RNA-Seq and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry acquisition (LC/MS). The transcriptomic and metabolomic data obtained for poultry of different genetic backgrounds will be a valuable resource for further studies on this model organism.

Acyl coenzyme A binding protein (ACBP): An aging- and disease-relevant "autophagy checkpoint"

Acyl coenzyme A binding protein (ACBP), also known as diazepam-binding inhibitor (DBI), is a phylogenetically ancient protein present in some eubacteria and the entire eukaryotic radiation. In several eukaryotic phyla, ACBP/DBI transcends its intracellular function in fatty acid metabolism because it can be released into the extracellular space. This ACBP/DBI secretion usually occurs in response to nutrient scarcity through an autophagy-dependent pathway. ACBP/DBI and its peptide fragments then act on a range of distinct receptors that diverge among phyla, namely metabotropic G protein-coupled receptor in yeast (and likely in the mammalian central nervous system), a histidine receptor kinase in slime molds, and ionotropic gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors in mammals. Genetic or antibody-mediated inhibition of ACBP/DBI orthologs interferes with nutrient stress-induced adaptations such as sporulation or increased food intake in multiple species, as it enhances lifespan or healthspan in yeast, plant leaves, nematodes, and multiple mouse models. These lifespan and healthspan-extending effects of ACBP/DBI suppression are coupled to the induction of autophagy. Altogether, it appears that neutralization of extracellular ACBP/DBI results in "autophagy checkpoint inhibition" to unleash the anti-aging potential of autophagy. Of note, in humans, ACBP/DBI levels increase in various tissues, as well as in the plasma, in the context of aging, obesity, uncontrolled infection or cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurodegenerative, and malignant diseases.

Fasting: From Physiology to Pathology

Overnutrition is a risk factor for various human diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancers. Therefore, targeting overnutrition represents a simple but attractive strategy for the treatment of these increasing public health threats. Fasting as a dietary intervention for combating overnutrition has been extensively studied. Fasting has been practiced for millennia, but only recently have its roles in the molecular clock, gut microbiome, and tissue homeostasis and function emerged. Fasting can slow aging in most species and protect against various human diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancers. These centuried and unfading adventures and explorations suggest that fasting has the potential to delay aging and help prevent and treat diseases while minimizing side effects caused by chronic dietary interventions. In this review, recent animal and human studies concerning the role and underlying mechanism of fasting in physiology and pathology are summarized, the therapeutic potential of fasting is highlighted, and the combination of pharmacological intervention and fasting is discussed as a new treatment regimen for human diseases.

The Relationship Between Eating-Attitudes and Clinical Characteristics, Agouti-Related Peptide, and Other Biochemical Markers in Adult-Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

OBJECTIVE

In our study, we aimed to evaluate eating-attitudes in adult-ADHD, and to examine its relationship with sociodemographic, clinical, AgRP, and biochemical parameters.

METHOD

The study included 70 adult-patients and 47 healthy-controls. The DIVA2.0, SCID-1 was administered to the participants. Eating-Attitudes Test (EAT), Night-Eating Questionnaire (NEQ), Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS-11) were filled by the participants.

RESULTS

We found that psychological state affect eating-attitudes in adult-ADHD (p = .013), emotional eating is more common, nocturnal chronotype is dominant (p < .001), NES is more frequent (p < .001), waist circumference measurement is higher (p = .030), and lipid profile is deteriorated (p < .001). AgRP levels were significantly lower in patients treated with methylphenidate (p = .021). Those who received methylphenidate treatment had less NES than those who did not. Deterioration in eating-attitudes and symptom severity of night eating in ADHD, it was positively correlated with clinical severity of ADHD and impulsivity. In addition, age and increase in night eating symptoms were predictors of deterioration in eating attitudes in adult-ADHD. We found that impaired eating-attitudes and impulsivity severity were also predictors of NES (p = .006, p = .034).

CONCLUSION

The necessity of adult-ADHD treatment has been demonstrated by the deterioration in eating-attitudes and cardiometabolic risk dimensions and the underlying mechanisms.

Low glycemic index common bean snack increased satiety without modifying energy intake in adults with normal weight: randomized crossover trials

This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effect of a common bean baked snack (CBBS) and cooked bean consumption on energy intake, satiety, glycemic response, and palatability in subjects with normal weight (Study 1) and overweight (Study 2) and to determine the glycemic index of CBBS (Study 3). For studies 1 and 2, satiety and glycemic response were measured over 45 min after consuming CBBS, cooked beans or white bread preload, and energy intake at an ad libitum test meal was calculated. Energy intake remained similar after consuming the three preloads in both studies. Compared to white bread, CBBS consumption increased fullness by 52% in subjects with normal weight but not in those with overweight. The CBBS calculated glycemic index was considered low (42). Consumption of low glycemic index CBBS increased satiety in adults with a normal weight. Long-term trials assessing the effects on body weight management are necessary.

Sex-Dimorphic Octadecaneuropeptide (ODN) Regulation of Ventromedial Hypothalamic Nucleus Glucoregulatory Neuron Function and Counterregulatory Hormone Secretion

Central endozepinergic signaling is implicated in glucose homeostasis. Ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMN) metabolic monitoring governs glucose counter-regulation. VMN glucose-stimulatory nitric oxide (NO) and glucose-inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons express the energy gauge 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Current research addresses the premise that the astrocyte glio-peptide octadecaneuropeptide (ODN) imposes sex-dimorphic control of metabolic sensor activity and neurotransmitter signaling in these neurons. The ODN G-protein coupled-receptor antagonist cyclo(1-8)[DLeu5]OP (LV-1075) was administered intracerebroventricularly (icv) to euglycemic rats of each sex; additional groups were pretreated icv with the ODN isoactive surrogate ODN11-18 (OP) before insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Western blotting of laser-catapult-microdissected VMN NO and GABA neurons showed that hypoglycemia caused OP-reversible augmentation of phospho-, e.g., activated AMPK and nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in rostral (female) or middle (male) VMN segments or ODN-dependent suppression of nNOS in male caudal VMN. OP prevented hypoglycemic down-regulation of glutamate decarboxylase profiles in female rat rostral VMN, without affecting AMPK activity. LV-1075 treatment of male, not female rats elevated plasma glucagon and corticosterone concentrations. Moreover, OP attenuated hypoglycemia-associated augmentation of these hormones in males only. Results identify, for each sex, regional VMN metabolic transmitter signals that are subject to endozepinergic regulation. Directional shifts and gain-or-loss of ODN control during eu- versus hypoglycemia infer that VMN neuron receptivity to or post-receptor processing of this stimulus may be modulated by energy state. In male, counter-regulatory hormone secretion may be governed principally by ODN-sensitive neural pathways, whereas this endocrine outflow may be controlled by parallel, redundant ODN-dependent and -independent mechanisms in female.

Diazepam Binding Inhibitor Control of Eu- and Hypoglycemic Patterns of Ventromedial Hypothalamic Nucleus Glucose-Regulatory Signaling

Pharmacological stimulation/antagonism of astrocyte glio-peptide octadecaneuropeptide signaling alters ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMN) counterregulatory γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and nitric oxide transmission. The current research used newly developed capillary zone electrophoresis-mass spectrometry methods to investigate hypoglycemia effects on VMN octadecaneuropeptide content, along with gene knockdown tools to determine if octadecaneuropeptide signaling regulates these transmitters during eu- and/or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia caused dissimilar adjustments in the octadecaneuropeptide precursor, i.e., diazepam-binding-inhibitor and octadecaneuropeptide levels in dorsomedial versus ventrolateral VMN. Intra-VMN diazepam-binding-inhibitor siRNA administration decreased baseline 67 and 65 kDa glutamate decarboxylase mRNA levels in GABAergic neurons laser-microdissected from each location, but only affected hypoglycemic transcript expression in ventrolateral VMN. This knockdown therapy imposed dissimilar effects on eu- and hypoglycemic glucokinase and 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase-alpha1 (AMPKα1) and -alpha2 (AMPKα2) gene profiles in dorsomedial versus ventrolateral GABAergic neurons. Diazepam-binding-inhibitor gene silencing up-regulated baseline (dorsomedial) or hypoglycemic (ventrolateral) nitrergic neuron neuronal nitric oxide synthase mRNA profiles. Baseline nitrergic cell glucokinase mRNA was up- (ventrolateral) or down- (dorsomedial) regulated by diazepam-binding-inhibitor siRNA, but knockdown enhanced hypoglycemic profiles in both sites. Nitrergic nerve cell AMPKα1 and -α2 transcripts exhibited division-specific responses to this genetic manipulation during eu- and hypoglycemia. Results document the utility of capillary zone electrophoresis-mass spectrometric tools for quantification of ODN in small-volume brain tissue samples. Data show that hypoglycemia has dissimilar effects on ODN signaling in the two major neuroanatomical divisions of the VMN and that this glio-peptide imposes differential control of glucose-regulatory neurotransmission in the VMNdm versus VMNvl during eu- and hypoglycemia.

High plasma concentrations of acyl-coenzyme A binding protein (ACBP) predispose to cardiovascular disease: Evidence for a phylogenetically conserved proaging function of ACBP

Autophagy defects accelerate aging, while stimulation of autophagy decelerates aging. Acyl-coenzyme A binding protein (ACBP), which is encoded by a diazepam-binding inhibitor (DBI), acts as an extracellular feedback regulator of autophagy. As shown here, knockout of the gene coding for the yeast orthologue of ACBP/DBI (ACB1) improves chronological aging, and this effect is reversed by knockout of essential autophagy genes (ATG5, ATG7) but less so by knockout of an essential mitophagy gene (ATG32). In humans, ACBP/DBI levels independently correlate with body mass index (BMI) as well as with chronological age. In still-healthy individuals, we find that high ACBP/DBI levels correlate with future cardiovascular events (such as heart surgery, myocardial infarction, and stroke), an association that is independent of BMI and chronological age, suggesting that ACBP/DBI is indeed a biomarker of "biological" aging. Concurringly, ACBP/DBI plasma concentrations correlate with established cardiovascular risk factors (fasting glucose levels, systolic blood pressure, total free cholesterol, triglycerides), but are inversely correlated with atheroprotective high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In mice, neutralization of ACBP/DBI through a monoclonal antibody attenuates anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, which is a model of accelerated heart aging. In conclusion, plasma elevation of ACBP/DBI constitutes a novel biomarker of chronological aging and facets of biological aging with a prognostic value in cardiovascular disease.

Ghrelin and leptin regulating wound healing

A recent article by Kratofil et al. investigated the immune inflammatory response against Staphylococcus aureus-contaminated foreign bodies placed under mouse skin. In this model, neutrophils are indispensable for bacterial clearance, while monocyte-derived macrophages are required for optimal wound healing. Intriguingly, ghrelin produced by macrophages favors, and leptin produced by hypodermal adipocytes inhibits, an adequate foreign body response.

An obesogenic feedforward loop involving PPARγ, acyl-CoA binding protein and GABAA receptor

Acyl-coenzyme-A-binding protein (ACBP), also known as a diazepam-binding inhibitor (DBI), is a potent stimulator of appetite and lipogenesis. Bioinformatic analyses combined with systematic screens revealed that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is the transcription factor that best explains the ACBP/DBI upregulation in metabolically active organs including the liver and adipose tissue. The PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone-induced ACBP/DBI upregulation, as well as weight gain, that could be prevented by knockout of Acbp/Dbi in mice. Moreover, liver-specific knockdown of Pparg prevented the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced upregulation of circulating ACBP/DBI levels and reduced body weight gain. Conversely, knockout of Acbp/Dbi prevented the HFD-induced upregulation of PPARγ. Notably, a single amino acid substitution (F77I) in the γ2 subunit of gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptor (GABAAR), which abolishes ACBP/DBI binding to this receptor, prevented the HFD-induced weight gain, as well as the HFD-induced upregulation of ACBP/DBI, GABAAR γ2, and PPARγ. Based on these results, we postulate the existence of an obesogenic feedforward loop relying on ACBP/DBI, GABAAR, and PPARγ. Interruption of this vicious cycle, at any level, indistinguishably mitigates HFD-induced weight gain, hepatosteatosis, and hyperglycemia.

Immunization of mice with the self-peptide ACBP coupled to keyhole limpet hemocyanin

Keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) is a glycosylated multi-subunit metalloprotein that elicits a strong nonspecific immune activation, thus inducing both cellular and humoral immune responses. The exceptional immunogenicity of this protein can be leveraged to vaccinate mice against self-antigens that otherwise would not induce an autoimmune response. This protocol describes the covalent conjugation of KLH with acyl-coenzyme A-binding protein (ACBP), the autovaccination of mice with ACBP-KLH conjugate together with a potent adjuvant, and the detection of the produced anti-ACBP autoantibodies.

For complete details on the use and execution of this profile, please refer to Bravo-San Pedro et al. (2019c).

•

ACBP can be glutaraldehyde-conjugated to the large immunogenic protein KLH

•

When coinjected with adjuvant, KLH-ACBP elicits autoantibodies against ACBP

•

Circulating ACBP protein can be quantified by a specific ELISA

•

Bioavailable ACBP decreases after successful autovaccination

Obesogenic effect of erythromycin on Caenorhabditis elegans through over-eating and lipid metabolism disturbances

Environmental obesogens contributed significantly to the obesity prevalence. Recently, antibiotics joined the list of environmental obesogens, while the underlying mechanisms remained to be explored. In the present study, effects of erythromycin (ERY), one widely used macrolide antibiotic, were measured on C. elegans to investigate the obesogenic mechanism. Results showed that ERY at 0.1 μg/L significantly increased the fat content by 17.4% more than the control and also stimulated triacylglycerol (TAG) levels by 25.7% more than the control. Regarding the obesogenic mechanisms, ERY provoked over-eating by stimulation on the pharyngeal pumping and reduction on the satiety quiescence percentage and duration. Such effects were resulted from stimulation on the neurotransmitters including serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA) and acetylcholine (ACh). The nervous responses involved the up-regulation of Gsα (e.g., ser-7, gsa-1, acy-1 and kin-2) signaling pathway and the down-regulation of TGFβ (daf-7) but not via cGMP-dependent regulations (e.g., egl-4). Moreover, ERY stimulated the activities of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and glycerol-3-phosphateacyl transferases (GPAT) that catalyze lipogenesis, while ERY inhibited those of acyl-CoA synthetase (ACS), carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT) and acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO) that catalyze lipolysis. The unbalance between lipogenesis and lipolysis resulted in the fat accumulation which was consistent with up-regulation on mgl-1 and mgl-3 which are the down-steam of TGFβ regulation. Such consistence supported the close connection between nervous regulation and lipid metabolism. In addition, ERY also disturbed insulin which connects lipid with glucose in metabolism.

Metabolic and Molecular Subacute Effects of a Single Moderate-Intensity Exercise Bout, Performed in the Fasted State, in Obese Male Rats

Introduction and objectives: Obesity represents a major global public health problem. Its etiology is multifactorial and includes poor dietary habits, such as hypercaloric and hyperlipidic diets (HFDs), physical inactivity, and genetic factors. Regular exercise is, per se, a tool for the treatment and prevention of obesity, and recent studies suggest that the beneficial effects of exercise can be potentiated by the fasting state, thus potentially promoting additional effects. Despite the significant number of studies showing results that corroborate such hypothesis, very few have evaluated the effects of fasted-state exercise in overweight/obese populations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the subacute effects (12 h after conclusion) of a single moderate-intensity exercise bout, performed in either a fed or an 8 h fasted state, on serum profile, substrate-content and heat shock pathway–related muscle protein immunocontent in obese male rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats received a modified high-fat diet for 12 weeks to induce obesity and insulin resistance. The animals were allocated to four groups: fed rest (FER), fed exercise (FEE), fasted rest (FAR) and fasted exercise (FAE). The exercise protocol was a 30 min session on a treadmill, with an intensity of 60% of VO₂max. The duration of the fasting period was 8 h prior to the exercise session. After a 12 h recovery, the animals were killed and metabolic parameters of blood, liver, heart, gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were evaluated, as well as SIRT1 and HSP70 immunocontent in the muscles. Results: HFD induced obesity and insulin resistance. Soleus glycogen concentration decreased in the fasted groups and hepatic glycogen decreased in the fed exercise group. The combination of exercise and fasting promoted a decreased concentration of serum total cholesterol and triglycerides. In the heart, combination fasting plus exercise was able to decrease triglycerides to control levels. In the soleus muscle, both fasting and fasting plus exercise were able to decrease triglyceride concentrations. In addition, heat shock protein 70 and sirtuin 1 immunocontent increased after exercise in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Conclusions: An acute bout of moderate intensity aerobic exercise, when realized in fasting, may induce, in obese rats with metabolic dysfunctions, beneficial adaptations to their health, such as better biochemical and molecular adaptations that last for at least 12 h. Considering the fact that overweight/obese populations present an increased risk of cardiovascular events/diseases, significant reductions in such plasma markers of lipid metabolism are an important achievement for these populations.

Elevated plasma levels of the appetite-stimulator ACBP/DBI in fasting and obese subjects

Eukaryotic cells release the phylogenetically ancient protein acyl coenzyme A binding protein (ACBP, which in humans is encoded by the gene DBI, diazepam binding inhibitor) upon nutrient deprivation. Accordingly, mice that are starved for one to two days and humans that undergo voluntary fasting for one to three weeks manifest an increase in the plasma concentration of ACBP/DBI. Paradoxically, ACBP/DBI levels also increase in obese mice and humans. Since ACBP/DBI stimulates appetite, this latter finding may explain why obesity constitutes a self-perpetuating state. Here, we present a theoretical framework to embed these findings in the mechanisms of weight control, as well as a bioinformatics analysis showing that, irrespective of the human cell or tissue type, one single isoform of ACBP/DBI (ACBP1) is preponderant (~90% of all DBI transcripts, with the sole exception of the testis, where it is ~70%). Based on our knowledge, we conclude that ACBP1 is subjected to a biphasic transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, explaining why obesity and fasting both are associated with increased circulating ACBP1 protein levels.