Dietary and Pharmacological Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Health

Microcapsule Techniques to Emphasize Functional Plant Oil Quality and Their Applications in the Food Industry: A Review

Natural functional plant oils (FPOs) have been widely exploited due to their abundant biological activities. However, when exposed to oxygen, light, moisture, and heat, some limitations such as oxidative deterioration, impaired flavor, loss of nutritional value and volatile compounds, and decreased shelf life hinder the widespread application of FPOs in the food industry. Notably, the microencapsulation technique is one of the advanced technologies, which has been used to maintain the biological and physicochemical properties of FPOs. The present review provided a comprehensive overview of the nutrient compositions and functionality of FPOs, preparation techniques for microcapsules, and applications of microencapsulated FPOs (MFPOs) in the food industry. FPOs obtained from a wide range of sources were abundant in bioactive compounds and possessed disease risk mitigation and improved human health properties. The preparation methods of microencapsulation technology included physical, chemical, and physicochemical methods, which had the ability to enhance oxidative stability, functional, shelf life, and thermostability properties of FPOs. In this context, MFPOs had been applied as a fortification in sausage, meat, bakery, and flour products. Overall, this work will provide information for academic fields and industries the further exploration of food and nutriment products.

Biochemical Markers as Predictors of Health Outcomes in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with an increasing prevalence worldwide, including in Saudi Arabia. Emerging evidence suggests that biochemical markers, such as oxidative stress indicators, neurotransmitter levels, and lipid profiles, play a significant role in ASD's pathology and may also elevate cardiovascular and metabolic risks in affected individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesize current findings on these biomarkers, with a particular focus on the Saudi population, to elucidate their relationship with ASD pathology and associated health outcomes. Following the PRISMA guidelines, data from 41 studies on oxidative stress markers, neurotransmitters, lipid profiles, and immune markers were analyzed. Searches were conducted across major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, and effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences with a 95% confidence interval. To further interpret the data, bioinformatics tools such as Reactome, Panther, and STRING were employed to analyze biomarker pathways. The results highlight a significant association between elevated oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in individuals with ASD, with profound effects on gastrointestinal and mitochondrial health. These biochemical abnormalities disrupt synaptic plasticity and drive chronic neuroinflammation, which impairs neurodevelopmental processes, contributing to the pathology of ASD. The meta-analysis reveals minimal heterogeneity (I2 = 0.02%) and limited publication bias, supporting the reliability of these associations. The findings underscore the need for a multidisciplinary approach to ASD management in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing biomarker-based diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies. Future research directions include developing individualized diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks utilizing these biomarkers to enhance ASD-related health outcomes.

Mosquitoes harvested from rice fields as alternative protein ingredient in broiler feed: insights from the first pilot study

Global population continuous growth and increasing consumers' demands for protein-rich diets have posed sustainability challenges for traditional livestock feed sources. Consequently, exploring alternative and sustainable protein sources has become imperative to address the environmental burden and resource limitations associated with conventional ingredients. With respect to food security assurance, insects have emerged as a promising solution due to their exceptional nutritional profile, rapid reproduction rates, and low environmental impact. In the present pilot study, 10% of a soybean meal-based diet was replaced by adult mosquitoes harvested from rice fields. The objective was to assess the effect of this partial substitution on meat quality aspects and consumer acceptance. A total of 40 Cobb hybrid broiler chickens were randomly placed in a control and a mosquito-fed group. The study was conducted for 42 days and carcass physicochemical, nutritional, and microbiological characteristics, as well as sensory attributes were evaluated. Overall, results regarding quality attributes were comparable between the control and the treatment group. The organoleptic evaluation showed that the thighs from the mosquito-fed group had the highest overall consumer acceptance. These outcomes indicate that mosquitoes could be successfully used as a protein source for broiler feed without compromising the quality and acceptability of the meat.

Impact of Human Milk Oligosaccharides and Probiotics on Gut Microbiome and Mood in Autism: A Case Report

Recent evidence has highlighted the role of the gut-brain axis in the progression of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with significant changes in the gut microbiome of individuals with this condition. This report investigates the effects of probiotics and human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) supplements on the gut microbiome, inflammatory cytokine profile, and clinical outcomes in an ASD adolescent with chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction and cognitive impairment. Following treatment, we observed a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines' concentration alongside Sutterella relative abundance, a bacterium reported to be linked with gastrointestinal diseases. Also, we reported a notable increase in mood stability. The study aims to evaluate the use of gut microbiome-based therapy in selected ASD patients, highlighting its potential to improve related clinical symptoms.

The Effect of High-Temperature Heating on Amounts of Bioactive Compounds and Antiradical Properties of Refined Rapeseed Oil Blended with Rapeseed, Coriander and Apricot Cold-Pressed Oils

Cold-pressed oils are rich sources of bioactive substances, which may protect triacylglycerols from degradation during frying. Nevertheless, these substances may decompose under high temperature. This work considers the content of bioactive substances in blends and their changes during high-temperature heating. Blends of refined rapeseed oil with 5% or 25% in one of three cold-pressed oils (rapeseed, coriander and apricot) were heated at 170 or 200 °C in a thin layer on a pan. All non-heated blends and cold-pressed oils were tested for fatty acid profile, content and composition of phytosterols, tocochromanols, chlorophyll and radical scavenging activity (RSA) analyzed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Moreover, the stability of phytosterols, tocochromanols, DPPH and ABTS values was determined in heated blends. All tocochromanols were lost during the heating process, in particular, at 200 °C. However, there were some differences between homologues. α-Tocopherol and δ-tocopherol were the most thermolabile and the most stable, respectively. Phytosterols were characterized by very high stability at both temperatures. We observed relationships between ABTS and DPPH values and contents of total tocochromanols and α-tocopherol. The obtained results may be useful in designing a new type of fried food with improved health properties and it may be the basis for further research on this topic.

Changes in the nutrients, phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of Rheum officinale Baill. leaf blades during different growth periods

Rhubarb contains an abundance of compounds and nutrients that promote health through various activities; however, these activities are affected by the harvest season. In this paper, the changes in nutrients, phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activity of Rheum officinale leaf blades (LRO) during different growth periods were investigated. The results showed that LRO is a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals and contains abundant fatty acids; however, as the harvest time increased from March to July, the levels of protein and amino acid decreased, and the levels of other nutrients reached a maximum in May or June. LRO also contains flavonoids, terpenoids, and quinones. As the harvest time increased, the quinone content decreased, possibly due to the unstable chemical properties of quinones at high temperatures. The flavonoid contents reached a maximum in May or June. This study indicated that LRO is a source of nutrients and chemical components and can be used for functional food production. In addition, the nutrients and chemical components related to the antioxidant activity of LRO changed according to the harvest season.

Association of Circulating Very Long-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids With Cardiovascular Mortality in NHANES 2003-2004, 2011-2012

CONTEXT

Limited studies have shown a protective effect of very long-chain saturated fatty acids (VLSFAs) on healthy aging, diabetes, heart failure, and risk factors related to cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the role of VLSFAs on mortality risk is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the association of serum docosanoic acid (C22:0) and serum lignoceric acid (C24:0) with all-cause and disease-specific mortality and to confirm the effect of VLSFAs on mortality risk in the whole, hyperlipidemia, and hypertensive populations.

METHODS

A total of 4132 individuals from the 2003-2004, 2011-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this study. There were 1326 and 1456 participants in the hyperlipidemia and hypertensive population, respectively. Mortality information was confirmed using the National Death Index (NDI). Multiple model calibration was performed using Cox regression analysis for known risk factors to explore the association between circulating VLSFAs and all-cause or CVD or coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality.

RESULTS

In the whole population, individuals with higher circulating C22:0 and C24:0 as a percentage of total serum fatty acid levels reduced the risks of mortality of all-cause (C22:0: HR = .409; 95% CI, 0.271-0.618; C24:0: HR = 0.430; 95% CI, 0.283-0.651), CVD (C22:0: HR = 0.286; 95% CI, 0.134-0.612; C24:0: HR = 0.233; 95% CI, 0.101-0.538), and CHD (C22:0: HR = 0.401; 95% CI, 0.187-0.913; C24:0: HR = 0.263; 95% CI, 0.082-0.846). Similar to the whole population, individuals with higher circulating C22:0 and C24:0 as a percentage of total serum fatty acid levels in the hyperlipidemia and hypertensive populations were also protective for all-cause, CHD, and CVD mortality.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirm the protective effect of high levels of circulating VLSFAs (C22:0 and C24:0) on CVD, CHD, and all causes of death in the whole, hyperlipidemia, and hypertensive populations.

Comparison of canola oil and olive oil consumption on the serum lipid profile in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Several randomized clinical trials have investigated the effects of canola oil (CO) compared to olive oil (OO) on the serum lipid profiles in adults. However, the results of these studies are inconsistent. Thus, this study aimed to assess the comparison of CO and OO consumption on the serum lipid components in adults.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The following online databases were searched until February 4th, 2022: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar. The effect sizes were stated as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 13 eligible trials were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that the CO consumption, significantly reduced serum LDL-c (WMD: -6.13 mg/dl, 95%CI: -9.79, -2.46, p = 0.001), TC (WMD: -8.92 mg/dl, 95% CI: -13.52, -4.33, P < 0.001) and LDL-c/HDL-c ratio (WMD: -0.30; 95% CI, -0.53, -0.06, p = 0.01) levels compared to OO. There were no significant changes in the other components of the blood lipids.

CONCLUSION

The results of this review suggest that CO consumptionhas beneficial effects on LDL-c, TC, and LDL-c/HDL-c ratio compared to OO. Therefore, its replacement with OO can have cardioprotective impacts.

Capparis spinosa L. as a potential source of nutrition and its health benefits in foods: A comprehensive review of its phytochemistry, bioactivities, safety, and application

Capparis spinosa L. (C. spinosa) is an edible plant with health-promoting benefits. C. spinosa possesses various biological activities, including antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antibacterial, and insecticidal effects. The active compounds associated with these effects mainly include flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, volatile oils, fatty acids, and polysaccharides. Moreover, C. spinosa has considerable nutritional value. Apart from being a food condiment, it belongs to a class of functional ingredients that act as preservatives and antioxidants in food products. C. spinosa has also shown good potential applications in novel food packaging materials. In this article, in addition to systematically reviewing the botanical characteristics, traditional edible uses, phytochemical composition, bioactivities and safety of C. spinosa, we highlight for the first time its potential applications in the foods. The findings will provide critical information for the future development of C. spinosa into a multifunctional food product with essential roles in health benefits.

Development of a Novel Apigenin Dosage form as a Substitute for the Modern Triple Antithrombotic Regimen

The simultaneous administration of three antiplatelet agents has been proposed as an efficient strategy for the secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events and is included in the European guidelines. However, this strategy presented an increased risk of bleeding; therefore, the identification of new antiplatelet agents, with improved efficacy and diminished side effects, is of great importance. In silico studies, UPLC/MS Q-TOF plasma stability, in vitro platelet aggregation experiments, and pharmacokinetic studies were exploited. In the present study, it has been predicted that the flavonoid apigenin could target different platelet activation pathways, including P2Y12, protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1), and cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1). To enhance apigenin's potency, hybridization with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was performed, as fatty acids have illustrated potent efficacy against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The new molecular hybrid, termed 4'-DHA-apigenin, demonstrated enhanced inhibitory activity against platelet aggregation induced by thrombin receptor activator peptide-6 (TRAP-6), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and arachidonic acid (AA), with respect to the parent apigenin. The 4'-DHA-apigenin hybrid illustrated an almost 2-fold enhanced inhibitory activity, with respect to apigenin, and an almost 3-fold enhanced inhibitory activity, with respect to DHA, for the ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Additionally, the hybrid presented a more than 12-fold enhanced inhibitory activity with respect to DHA for the TRAP-6 induced platelet aggregation. Furthermore, a 2-fold enhanced inhibitory activity was recorded for the 4'-DHA-apigenin hybrid for the AA-induced platelet aggregation with respect to apigenin. To surmount the reduced LC-MS based plasma stability, a novel dosage form in olive oil has been developed. The 4'-DHA-apigenin olive oil-based formulation presented an enhanced antiplatelet inhibitory effect in three activation pathways. To further explore the pharmacokinetic profile of 4'-DHA-apigenin in olive oil formulations, a UPLC/MS Q-TOF protocol has been established to quantify the serum levels of apigenin after oral administration to C57BL/6J wild type mice. The olive oil-based formulation of 4'-DHA-apigenin demonstrated an increase in apigenin bioavailability of 262 %. This study may offer a new therapeutic strategy tailored to improve the treatment of CVDs.

Golden Chanterelle or a Gold Mine? Metabolites from Aqueous Extracts of Golden Chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius) and Their Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities

Cantharellus cibarius, the golden chanterelle, is the second most-collected wild edible mushroom in Europe and very frequently harvested in Croatia. Wild mushrooms have been considered a healthy food since ancient times and are today highly valued for their beneficial nutritional as well as medicinal properties. Since golden chanterelle is added to different food products to improve their nutritive value, we studied the chemical profile of aqueous extracts of golden chanterelle (at 25 °C and 70 °C) and their antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. Malic acid, pyrogallol and oleic acid were some of the main compounds identified by GC-MS from derivatized extract. p-Hydroxybenzoic acid, protocatechuic acid and gallic acid were the most abundant phenolics quantitatively determined by HPLC, with somewhat higher amounts for samples extracted at 70 °C. Antioxidant activity was determined by ferric reducing antioxidant power assay and oxygen radical absorption method, and the highest results were recorded for golden chanterelle extracted at 70 °C, being 41.54 ± 1.54 and 38.72 ± 2.47 µM TE/L, respectively. Aqueous extract at 25 °C showed the better response against human breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 (IC₅₀ = 375µg/mL). Our results confirm the beneficial effect of golden chanterelle even under aqueous extraction conditions and highlight its significance as a dietary supplement and in the development of new beverage products.

Evaluation of the Nutritional and Health Values of Selected Polish Mushrooms Considering Fatty Acid Profiles and Lipid Indices

Imleria badia, Boletus edulis, and Cantharellus cibarius are popular mushrooms of economic importance in Poland. Since physical and mental development of a person and the maintenance of good health entail providing the body with adequate nutrients, including plant and animal fats, the aim of this study was to determine the fatty acid profiles of three mushroom species from Poland and to assess their nutritional and health values using lipid indices. Studied mushrooms have a favorable fatty acid composition due to the high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Low values of the atherohenic index (AI) and the thrombogenic index (TI) prove that the consumption of the fungi may decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. Products with a high hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio (H/H) and health-promoting index value are assumed to be more beneficial to human health, granting the possibility for using mushrooms in the nutrition of people with hypertension and in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Impact of Feeding Probiotics on Blood Parameters, Tail Fat Metabolites, and Volatile Flavor Components of Sunit Sheep

Sheep crude tail fat has unique nutritional values and is used as a raw material for high-quality natural oil. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of probiotics on the metabolites and flavor of sheep crude tail fat. In this study, 12 Sunit sheep were randomly divided into an experimental group (LTF, basal feed + Lactiplantibacillusplantarum powder) and a control group (CTF, basal feed). The results of sheep crude tail fat analysis showed that blood lipid parameters were significantly lower and the expression of fatty acid synthase and stearoyl-CoA desaturase genes higher in the LTF group than in the CTF group (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis via liquid chromatography−mass spectrometry showed that the contents of metabolites such as eicosapentaenoic acid, 16-hydroxypalmitic acid, and L-citrulline were higher in the LTF group (p < 0.01). Gas chromatography−mass spectrometry detection of volatile flavor compounds in the tail fat showed that nonanal, decanal, and 1-hexanol were more abundant in the LTF group (p < 0.05). Therefore, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum feeding affected blood lipid parameters, expression of lipid metabolism-related genes, tail fat metabolites, and volatile flavor compounds in Sunit sheep. In this study, probiotics feeding was demonstrated to support high-value sheep crude tail fat production.

Age Evolution of Lipid Accretion Rate in Boars Selected for Lean Meat and Duroc Barrows

Fatty acid (FA) deposition in growing–fattening pigs is mainly based on endogenous lipid synthesis, but also direct FA incorporation from the diet. To evaluate the direct fat incorporation rates and the endogenous desaturation action of the stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) enzyme, a deuterium (D)-labeled saturated FA (d35-C18:0) was added to the diet. Sixteen three-way (3W) crossbred boars, and thirty-two purebred Duroc barrows homozygous for the SCD single nucleotide polymorphism rs80912566 (16 CC/16 TT), were used. Half of the animals of each genotype belonged to the growing and fattening phases. The fractional incorporation rate (FIR) of dietary fat in growing pigs was generally higher in adipose tissues, whereas in fattening pigs it was higher in the liver. Duroc pigs exhibited lower FIRs than 3W pigs, suggesting lower rates of endogenous synthesis by 3W pigs. Real fractional unsaturation rates (FURs) increased with age by the higher FIRs in 3W pigs and the de novo synthesis pathway in Duroc genotypes. Moreover, pigs carrying the SCD_T allele showed more enhanced oleic acid biosynthesis than Duroc CC pigs. In conclusion, suitable feeding protocols should be designed for each pig type to optimize production traits, considering that the metabolic pathway of FA for its deposition may differ.

Inflammatory Links Between Hypertriglyceridemia and Atherogenesis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recent studies indicate an association between hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The purpose of this review is to discuss the potential mechanism connecting HTG and ASCVD risk and the potential efficacy of HTG-targeting therapies in ASCVD prevention.

RECENT FINDINGS

HTG, with elevations in triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TGRL) and their remnants, are causal ASCVD risk factors. The mechanisms whereby HTG increases ASCVD risk are not well understood but may include multiple factors. Inflammation plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis. TGRL compared to low-density lipoproteins (LDL) correlate better with inflammation. TGRL remnants can penetrate endothelium and interact with macrophages leading to foam cell formation and inflammation in arterial walls, thereby contributing to atherogenesis. In addition, circulating monocytes can take up TGRL and become lipid-laden foamy monocytes, which infiltrate the arterial wall and may also contribute to atherogenesis. Novel therapies targeting HTG or inflammation are in development and have potential of reducing residual ASCVD risk associated with HTG. Clinical and preclinical studies show a causal role of HTG in promoting ASCVD, in which inflammation plays a vital role. Novel therapies targeting HTG or inflammation have potential of reducing residual ASCVD risk.

Methylmercury-Induced Metabolic Alterations in Caenorhabditis elegans Are Diet-Dependent

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a well-known neurotoxicant; however, its role in metabolic diseases has been gaining wider attention. Chronic exposure to MeHg in human populations shows an association with diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome (MS). As the incidences of both obesity and MS are on the rise globally, it is important to understand the potential role of MeHg in the development of the disease. There is a dearth of information on dietary interactions between MeHg and lipids, which play an important role in developing MS. We have previously shown that MeHg increases food seeking behaviors, lipid levels, fat storage, and pro-adipogenic gene expression in C. elegans fed the standard OP50 Escherichia coli diet. However, we hypothesized that these metabolic changes could be prevented if the worms were fed a bacterial diet lower in lipid content. We tested whether C. elegans developed metabolic alterations in response to MeHg if they were fed two alternative E. coli strains (HT115 and HB101) that are known absorb significantly less lipids from their media. Additionally, to explore the effect of a high-lipid and high-cholesterol diet on MeHg-induced metabolic dysfunction, we supplemented the OP50 strain with twice the standard concentration of cholesterol in the nematode growth media. Wild-type worms fed either the HB101 or HT115 diet were more resistant to MeHg than the worms fed the OP50 diet, showing a significant right-hand shift in the dose–response survival curve. Worms fed the OP50 diet supplemented with cholesterol were more sensitive to MeHg, showing a significant left-hand shift in the dose–response survival curve. Changes in sensitivity to MeHg by differential diet were not due to altered MeHg intake in the worms as measured by inductively coupled mass spectrometry. Worms fed the low-fat diets showed protection from MeHg-induced metabolic changes, including decreased food consumption, lower triglyceride content, and lower fat storage than the worms fed either of the higher-fat diets. Oxidative stress is a common characteristic of both MeHg exposure and high-fat diets. Worms fed either OP50 or OP50 supplemented with cholesterol and treated with MeHg had significantly higher levels of reactive oxygen species, carbonylated proteins, and loss of glutathione than the worms fed the HT115 or HB101 low-lipid diets. Taken together, our data suggest a synergistic effect of MeHg and dietary lipid levels on MeHg toxicity and fat metabolism in C. elegans, which may affect the ability of MeHg to cause metabolic dysfunction.

Neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19, potential neurotropic mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused large-scale economic and social losses and worldwide deaths. Although most COVID-19 patients have initially complained of respiratory insufficiency, the presence of neuropsychiatric manifestations is also reported frequently, ranging from headache, hyposmia/anosmia, and neuromuscular dysfunction to stroke, seizure, encephalopathy, altered mental status, and psychiatric disorders, both in the acute phase and in the long term. These neuropsychiatric complications have emerged as a potential indicator of worsened clinical outcomes and poor prognosis, thus contributing to mortality in COVID-19 patients. Their etiology remains largely unclear and probably involves multiple neuroinvasive pathways. Here, we summarize recent animal and human studies for neurotrophic properties of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and elucidate potential neuropathogenic mechanisms involved in the viral invasion of the central nervous system as a cause for brain damage and neurological impairments. We then discuss the potential therapeutic strategy for intervening and preventing neuropsychiatric complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Time-series monitoring of clinical-neurochemical-radiological progress of neuropsychiatric and neuroimmune complications need implementation in individuals exposed to SARS-CoV-2. The development of a screening, intervention, and therapeutic framework to prevent and reduce neuropsychiatric sequela is urgently needed and crucial for the short- and long-term recovery of COVID-19 patients.

The Impact of Short-Term Shark Liver Oil Supplementation on the Fatty Acid Composition of Erythrocyte Membranes

Fatty acid (FA) balance is strictly related to human health. The composition of fatty acids in lipid membranes seems to be influenced by diet. Shark liver oil (SLO) supplementation has been widely used recently in the prevention and treatment of human diseases. We analyzed the impact of short-term SLO supplementation on certain biochemical parameters and erythrocyte FA composition in a group of young healthy women. Our results showed that 6 weeks of SLO supplementation led to a significant decrease in C-reactive protein levels in sera and intracellular cholesterol levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. SLO supplementation caused a significant increase in the content of the polyunsaturated omega-3 FAs: docosahexaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid and α-linolenic acid. In the group of omega-6 FAs, we observed a significant elevation of arachidonic and dihomo-gamma-linoleic acid content. Due to these alterations, the omega-3 index increased significantly from 3.6% (before) to 4.2% (after supplementation). We also observed the impact of SLO supplementation on the membrane fluidity index. The ratio between saturated and unsaturated FAs decreased significantly from 13.1 to 9.9. In conclusion, our results show that even short-term SLO supplementation can improve human erythrocyte fatty acid composition and other parameters that may have health-promoting consequences.

In vitro antagonistic inhibitory effects of palm seed crude oils and their main constituent, lauric acid, with oxacillin in Staphylococcus aureus

Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus are a serious global threat, and with the emergence of antibiotic resistance, even more difficult to treat. One of the possible complications in antistaphylococcal therapy represents negative interactions of antibiotics with food. In this study, the in vitro interaction between oxacillin and crude palm seed oil from Astrocaryum vulgare, Cocos nucifera, and Elaeis guineensis against nine strains of S. aureus was determined using the checkerboard method. Lauric acid was identified as a major constituent of all tested oils by gas chromatography. The results showed strong concentration dependent antagonistic interactions between palm oils and oxacillin with values of fractional inhibitory concentrations indices ranging from 4.02 to 8.56 at concentrations equal or higher than 1024 µg/mL of the tested oils. Similarly, lauric acid in combination with oxacillin produced antagonistic action with fractional inhibitory concentration indices ranging from 4.01 to 4.28 at 1024 µg/mL. These findings suggest that interference between oxacillin and palm oils and their constituents can negatively affect the treatment of staphylococcal infections in humans and other animals.

New Approaches for the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease: Focus on Lipoproteins and Inflammation

Although numerous trials have convincingly shown benefits of statin therapy in both primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), most showed relative risk reductions of 25-40%, and thus many individuals continue to have ASCVD events despite statin therapy. Substantial progress has been made in developing therapies that address the residual risk for ASCVD despite statin therapy. In this review, we summarize progress of currently available therapies along with therapies under development that further reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins, reduce lipoprotein(a), reduce ASCVD events in patients with high triglycerides, and directly target inflammation to reduce ASCVD risk.

Nutritional Indices for Assessing Fatty Acids: A Mini-Review

Dietary fats are generally fatty acids that may play positive or negative roles in the prevention and treatment of diseases. In nature, fatty acids occur in the form of mixtures of saturated fatty acid (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), so their nutritional and/or medicinal values must be determined. Herein, we do not consider the classic indices, such as ∑SFA, ∑MUFA, ∑PUFA, ∑n-6 PUFA, ∑n-3 PUFA, and n-6 PUFA/n-3 PUFA; instead, we summarize and review the definitions, implications, and applications of indices used in recent years, including the PUFA/SFA, index of atherogenicity (IA), the index of thrombogenicity (IT), the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio (HH), the health-promoting index (HPI), the unsaturation index (UI), the sum of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA + DHA), fish lipid quality/flesh lipid quality (FLQ), the linoleic acid/α-linolenic acid (LA/ALA) ratio, and trans fatty acid (TFA). Of these nutritional indices, IA and IT are the most commonly used to assess the composition of fatty acids as they outline significant implications and provide clear evidence. EPA + DHA is commonly used to assess the nutritional quality of marine animal products. All indices have their advantages and disadvantages; hence, a rational choice of which to use is critical.