Plasma elaidic acid level as biomarker of industrial trans fatty acids and risk of weight change: report from the EPIC study

Correlations between Fatty Acid Profile and Body Fat Distribution in Postmenopausal Women-A Cross Sectional Study

The aim of the study was to assess the fatty acid profile of the whole blood of postmenopausal women, taking into account anthropometric parameters. The study involved 156 healthy women with an average age of 60 (SD = 6.3 years) years who were living in the West Pomerania Province (Poland). An original questionnaire was presented to all patients, conducting anthropometric measurements of them: weight, height, waist and hip circumference, body mass index (BMI), waist–hip ratio (WHR) and body adipose index (BAI), as well as an assessment of the fatty acid profile by employing gas chromatography. It has been observed that in menopausal women, the concentration of C16:1 increases with respect to their BMI (r = 0.205 p = 0.01). Similar correlations were noted with regard to body weight (C16:1 r = 0.177 p = 0.029). It was also shown that the concentration of C18trans11 (r = −0.166 p = 0.039), 18:2n6 (r = −0.165 p = 0.04) and n6/n9 (r = −0.194 p = 0.015) were negatively correlated with respect to their WHR, while the levels C16:1 (r = 0.22 p = 0.006), C18:1n9 (r = 0.22 p = 0.007), C24:1 (r = 0.251 p = 0.002), MUFA (r = 0.227 p = 0.046) and n9 (r = 0.224 p = 0.005) were correlated positively with respect to their BAI. The fatty acid profile of the whole blood of postmenopausal women is modulated to a poor extent by anthropometric variables. Therefore, more prospective research is warranted.

Biscuit consumption and diabetic retinopathy incidence in adults in the United States

BACKGROUND

Foods have a considerable influence on human health and were directly related to glycemic control for diabetes patients. However, little is known about the effects of biscuits, a traditional food consumed in large amounts in several countries, on diabetic retinopathy. This study aimed to explore the association between biscuit consumption and diabetic retinopathy prevalence in adults of the United States population.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 1904 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database were included in this population-based, cross-sectional study. The association between different consumption frequencies of biscuit and diabetic retinopathy prevalence was evaluated using a binary logistic regression model. Trend test, stratified and interaction analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

After possible confounders including sex, age, ethnicity, education, marital status, family poverty income ratio, smoking and alcohol consumption habit, fasting blood glucose level, hemoglobin A1c level, diagnosis of diabetes, insulin use, blood pressure, body mass index were adjusted, the participants who consumed biscuit 1-11 times a year, 1-3 times a month, and more than once a week had a 139.8% (95% confidence interval, 1.003-5.734), 182.1% (95% confidence interval, 1.106-7.191), and 236.2% (95% confidence interval, 1.335-9.844) higher risk of diabetic retinopathy prevalence, respectively, compared with those who never ate biscuit. For male, non-Hispanic, and overweight (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m²) subgroups, the trend test demonstrated that the diabetic retinopathy prevalence significantly elevated with increased frequency of biscuit consumption (P _trend = 0.021, 0.009, and 0.002, respectively). The interaction analysis suggested that no aforementioned confounders played an interactive role in the relationship between biscuit consumption and diabetic retinopathy prevalence.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of diabetic retinopathy was positively associated with biscuit consumption. Moreover, for male, non-Hispanic, or overweight individuals, the risk of diabetic retinopathy significantly increased with the frequency of biscuit consumption.

Trans fatty acids in frequently consumed products from Serbian and Slovenian market

OBJECTIVES

Industrially produced trans fatty acid (iTFA) have adverse health effects and thus their consumption should be limited. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the iTFA content in frequently consumed food products by young adults from the Serbian and Slovenian market with supposedly elevated iTFA content in 2015. At the time of this study, there was no recommended limit of iTFA in both countries, and reduction of iTFA in foods was on voluntary basis.

METHODS

We determined iTFA content in food products, 19 from the Serbian and 22 from the Slovenian market, blinded and analysed in the same analytical run. Contents of fatty acids (FA) methyl esters were analysed by capillary gas chromatography with a flame ionisation detector. Heptadecanoic acid was used as internal standard. Individual FA along with TFA were expressed as percentages of total measured FA. The amount of each FA in the sample was then calculated from the response factor and the transformation factor of the FA from the FA methyl ester content.

RESULTS

Elaidic acid (C18:1t) was found as the most abundant TFA in analysed products, ranging from 0.52 g/100 g of total FA in chocolate candy up to 60.4 g/100 g in a salami from Serbian market. In Slovenian products, the values for elaidic acid were lower, 0.04-3.95 g/100 g of total FA, except in one type of wafers (24.3 g/100 g).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of analysed products from the Serbian and three from Slovenian market exceeded the recommended WHO and EU limit of 2% iTFA of total fat in foods. Samples of frequently consumed salami, wafers, tea biscuits, and snacks were identified as products with potentially higher burden of iTFA in diets of young adults in Serbia.

Association between Different Types of Edible Oils and Anthropometric Indices Mood, and Appetite among Women

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between consumption of dietary oils and anthropometric indices, mood, and appetite among women staff of Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was used, and 245 women staff of Tehran University of Medical Sciences participated. A 168-item food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate dietary and nutrient intake. The association between liquid vegetable oils, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and animal fat intake and anthropometric indices, appetite, and mood was evaluated. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire was used to assess mood. A Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate appetite status. The tape measure was used to measure the waist circumference and height. SPSS was used to compute body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR).

RESULTS

In the present study, sunflower and frying oil were the most consumed liquid oils (n = 135/245 participants). Participants with a moderate intake of MUFA had greater odds ratio (OR: 3.47; 95% CI: 1.20-10.7; P trend = 0.025) of a high appetite compared to those with a low intake of MUFA. However, the study found no evidence of an association between consumption of edible oils (vegetable oils, animal fat oils, and other fatty acid sources) and mood, anthropometric indices, or appetite.

CONCLUSIONS

In the current research, we noticed a significant connection between moderate intake of MUFA and a large appetite and no association between consumption of edible oils and other outcomes. In conclusion, a balanced diet low in fast meals, processed foods, cakes, cookies, and sweets is suggested to limit the consumption of artificial trans-fatty acids.

Impact of Fatty Acids on Obesity-Associated Diseases and Radical Weight Reduction

Purpose

Fatty acids (FA), particularly polyunsaturated (PUFA) ones, are involved in the regulation of glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and inflammation. The aim of the study was to assess patient FA profile in relation to obesity, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism disturbances, and weight loss.

Materials and Methods

The studied group consisted of 51 patients with extreme obesity, 23 of whom achieved radical weight reduction within 1 year after a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). FA levels were determined using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection.

Results

Patients with extreme obesity and higher serum PUFA content have lower serum levels of SFA and MUFA (especially myristic, palmitic, lignoceric acids and palmitoleic, oleic acids), as well as lower triglyceride and higher HDL-cholesterol concentrations and it was not influenced by CEPT Taq1B variant. At baseline, the fatty acid profile of patients with type II diabetes differ from patients with dyslipidemia. In patients who had lost weight, significantly lower levels of selected saturated FA and major trans-fatty acid, elaidic, were found. Moreover, the proportion of PUFA was increased.

Conclusion

In extreme obesity, higher PUFA exert their favorable effects on serum lipids. Significant weight reduction after the bariatric surgery is associated with beneficial changes in the fatty acid profile.

Graphical Abstract

The Effect of Trans Fatty Acids on Human Health: Regulation and Consumption Patterns

Health effects of trans fatty acids (TFAs) on human organisms can vary according to their type, structure, composition, and origin. Even though the adverse health effects of industrial TFAs (iTFAs) have been widely discussed, the health effects of natural TFAs (nTFAs) are still questionable. Hence, it is important to review the literature and provide an overall picture on the health effects of different TFAs coming from industrial and ruminant sources, underlining those types that have adverse health effects as well as suggesting methods for reducing their harmful effects. Multiple databases (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, etc.) were searched with the key words "trans fatty acid sources", "ruminant", "industrial", "conjugated trans linoleic acid", "human", "coronary heart disease", "cancer", etc. Reference lists of the studies were scanned discussing the health effects of iTFAs and nTFAs. The review of the literature showed that iTFAs are found to be more harmful than ruminant-produced nTFAs. Although several beneficial effects (such as reduced risk of diabetes) for nTFAs have been observed, they should be used with caution. Since during labeling it is usually not mentioned whether the TFAs contained in food are of industrial or natural origin, the general suggestion is to reduce their consumption.

Serum Phospholipids Fatty Acids and Breast Cancer Risk by Pathological Subtype

This study evaluates whether serum phospholipids fatty acids (PL-FAs) and markers of their endogenous metabolism are associated with breast cancer (BC) subtypes. EpiGEICAM is a Spanish multicenter matched case-control study. A lifestyle and food frequency questionnaire was completed by 1017 BC cases and healthy women pairs. Serum PL-FA percentages were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Conditional and multinomial logistic regression models were used to quantify the association of PL-FA tertiles with BC risk, overall and by pathological subtype (luminal, HER2+ and triple negative). Stratified analyses by body mass index and menopausal status were also performed. Serum PL-FAs were measured in 795 (78%) pairs. Women with high serum levels of stearic acid (odds ratio (OR)_T3vsT1 = 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30–0.66), linoleic acid (OR_T3vsT1 = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.49–0.90) and arachidonic to dihomo-γ-linolenic acid ratio (OR _T3vsT1 = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.48–0.84) presented lower BC risk. Participants with high concentrations of palmitoleic acid (OR_T3vsT1 = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.20–2.26), trans-ruminant palmitelaidic acid (OR_T3vsT1 = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.12–2.02), trans-industrial elaidic acid (OR_T3vsT1 = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.14–2.03), and high oleic to stearic acid ratio (OR_T3vsT1 = 2.04; 95% CI = 1.45–2.87) showed higher risk. These associations were similar in all BC pathological subtypes. Our results emphasize the importance of analyzing fatty acids individually, as well as the desaturase activity indices.

Serum Phospholipid Fatty Acids and Mammographic Density in Premenopausal Women

BACKGROUND

The role of fatty acids (FAs) on mammographic density (MD) is unclear, and available studies are based on self-reported dietary intake.

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed the association between specific serum phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) and MD in premenopausal women.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study DDM-Madrid recruited 1392 Spanish premenopausal women, aged 39-50 y, who attended a screening in a breast radiodiagnosis unit of Madrid City Council. Women completed lifestyle questionnaires and FFQs. Percentage MD was estimated using a validated computer tool (DM-Scan), and serum PLFA percentages were measured by GC-MS. Multivariable linear regression models were used to quantify the association of FA tertiles with MD. Models were adjusted for age, education, BMI, waist circumference, parity, oral contraceptive use, previous breast biopsies, and energy intake, and they were corrected for multiple testing.

RESULTS

Women in the third tertile of SFAs showed significantly higher MD compared with those in the first tertile (βT3vsT1 = 7.53; 95% CI: 5.44, 9.61). Elevated relative concentrations of palmitoleic (βT3vsT1 = 3.12; 95% CI: 0.99, 5.25) and gondoic (βT3vsT1 = 2.67; 95% CI: 0.57, 4.77) MUFAs, as well as high relative concentrations of palmitelaidic (βT3vsT1 = 5.22; 95% CI: 3.15, 7.29) and elaidic (βT3vsT1 = 2.69; 95% CI: 0.59, 4.79) trans FAs, were also associated with higher MD. On the contrary, women with elevated relative concentrations of n-6 (ω-6) linoleic (βT3vsT1 = -5.49; 95% CI; -7.62, -3.35) and arachidonic (βT3vsT1 = -4.68; 95% CI: -6.79, -2.58) PUFAs showed lower MD. Regarding desaturation indices, an elevated palmitoleic to palmitic ratio and a low ratio of oleic to steric and arachidonic to dihomo-γ-linolenic acids were associated with higher MD.

CONCLUSIONS

Spanish premenopausal women with high relative concentrations of most SFAs and some MUFAs and trans FAs showed an increased MD, whereas those with high relative concentrations of some n-6 PUFAs presented lower density. These results, which should be confirmed in further studies, underscore the importance of analyzing serum FAs individually.

Serum Phospholipid Fatty Acids Levels, Anthropometric Variables and Adiposity in Spanish Premenopausal Women

This study investigates the still uncertain association between serum phospholipid fatty acids (PL-FA), and anthropometric and adiposity variables. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1443 Spanish premenopausal women. Participants answered an epidemiological and a food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric variables were measured using a bioimpedance scale. Serum PL-FAs levels were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The association between body mass index (BMI), weight gain, body fat percentage, visceral fat index, and waist circumference with serum PL-FAs and desaturation indices was evaluated using multivariable linear regression models. BMI was positively associated with the relative concentration of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (β = 0.94, q-val = 0.001), and with palmitoleic, dihomo-γ-linolenic (DGLA), arachidonic (AA) and α-linolenic acids, and was inversely associated with oleic, gondoic, trans-vaccenic, linoleic and γ-linolenic acids. Total fat percentage was positively associated with DGLA and AA, and inversely with linoleic and γ-linolenic acids. Low relative concentrations of some SFAs and high levels of n-6 PUFAs were associated with greater waist circumference. While the oleic/stearic and AA/DGLA acid ratios were inversely associated with BMI, DGLA/linoleic acid ratio was positively related to almost all variables. In addition to BMI, total fat percentage and waist circumference were also associated with certain individual fatty acids.

Trans-fatty acids alter the gut microbiota in high-fat-diet-induced obese rats

The gut microbiota is directly influenced by dietary components, and it plays critical roles in chronic diseases. Excessive consumption of trans-fatty acids (TFA) is associated with obesity induced by alterations in gut microbiota, but the links between obesity and gut microbiota remain unclear. Therefore, studies examining the impact of TFA on intestinal microflora are essential. In our study, we performed 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing on faecal samples from Sprague-Dawley rats fed a basal diet (control (CON) group), high-fat (HF) diet (diet-induced obesity (DIO) group) or TFA diets (1 % TFA group and 8 % TFA group) for 8 weeks to investigate the effects of TFA/HF diets on obesity and gut microbiota composition. We found that the TFA/HF diets significantly induced obesity and changes in blood and brain physiological parameters of the rats. The relative abundance of the phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes was inversely altered in the three test groups compared with the CON group. Proteobacteria increased slightly in the DIO, 1 % TFA and 8 % TFA groups. The genus Bacteroides increased in the DIO and 1 % TFA groups, but Muribaculaceae decreased in all experimental groups compared with the CON group. Moreover, significant differences were observed among clusters of orthologous group functional categories of the four dietary groups. Our observations suggested that the TFA/HF diets induced obesity and dysfunction of gut microbiota. Gut dysbiosis might mediate the obesity effects of TFA/HF diets.

Fatty Acid Profile and Cardiometabolic Markers in Relation with Diet Type and Omega-3 Supplementation in Spanish Vegetarians

Plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular, and scientific information concerning the nutritional status in this population is needed. This study determined the fatty acid profile of Spanish lacto-ovo vegetarians (LO-vegetarians) and vegans. Participants were 104 healthy adults, LO-vegetarians (n = 49) and vegans (n = 55). Lifestyle habits and consumption of food and omega-3 supplements were estimated by questionnaires. BMI, blood pressure, and abdominal and body fat were determined. Serum was collected to analyze fatty acids, glucose, lipids, homocysteine, insulin, and leptin. Volunteers were classified according to serum omega-6 to omega-3 (n-6/n-3) ratio into three groups: n-6/n-3 < 10, n-6/n-3 ≥ 10 to 20, and n-6/n-3 > 20. Results showed low cardiovascular risk and high insulin sensitivity with negligible differences between diet types. Linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) was the major serum fatty acid, followed by oleic (C18:1n-9) and palmitic (C16:0) acids. In contrast, serum eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) were (median, interquartile range) 0.27, 0.18% and 1.59, and 0.93%, respectively. Users of n-3 supplements (<10% of total vegetarians) had significantly higher EPA than non-users, while frequent consumption of flax-seeds was associated with increased α-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3). However, neither n-3 supplementation nor food consumption affected DHA levels in this vegetarian population.

Trends of serum phospholipid fatty acids over time in rural Uganda: evidence of nutritional transition?

Non-communicable diseases are projected to become the most common causes of death in Africa by 2030. The impact on health of epidemiological and nutritional transitions in sub-Saharan Africa remains unclear. To assess the trends of dietary fatty acids over time in Uganda, we examined fatty acids in serum collected from individuals in rural south-west Uganda, at three time points over two decades. Independent cross-sectional samples of 915 adults and children were selected from the general population cohort in 1990 (n 281), 2000 (n 283) and 2008 (n 351). Serum phospholipid fatty acids were measured by GC. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to compare the geometric means of fatty acids by time period. Serum fatty acid profiling showed high proportions of SFA, cis-MUFA and industrial trans-fatty acids (iTFA), likely to be biomarkers of high consumption of palm oil and hydrogenated fats. In contrast, proportions of n-6 and n-3 PUFA from vegetable oils and fish were low. From 1990 to 2008, serum phospholipids showed increases in absolute amounts of SFA (17·3 % increase in adults and 26·4 % in children), MUFA (16·7 % increase in adults and 16·8 % in children) and n-6:n-3 PUFA (40·1 % increase in adults and 39·8 % in children). The amount of elaidic acid, iTFA from hydrogenated fats, increased in children (60·1 % increase). In this rural Ugandan population, we show evidence of unfavourable trends over time of dietary fatty acids.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress may be involved in insulin resistance and lipid metabolism disorders of the white adipose tissues induced by high-fat diet containing industrial trans-fatty acids

BACKGROUND

Consumption of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) can result in alteration to lipid profile and glucose metabolism. Moreover, a diet high in iTFAs could increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glucose and lipid metabolism are closely linked in white adipose tissue (WAT), yet the underlying mechanisms of the effect of iTFAs in WAT are poorly understood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Parameters of glucose homeostasis, lipid profiles and markers of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress of WAT were measured in rats maintained on a high-fat diet containing margarine (HFD-M) (n=10) compared to controls maintained on standard chow (n=10) over 16 weeks.

RESULTS

Fat mass and body weight was significantly increased in rats maintained on the HFD-M compared to controls (P<0.01). HFD-M rats had increased levels of insulin (INS), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and serum lipid profile was significantly altered. The expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and the phosphorylation of inositol-requiring enzyme 1-alpha and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) were significantly increased in subcutaneous and retroperitoneal adipose depots of HFD-M-fed rats. In vitro, wider ER lumens were observed in 100μmol/L elaidic acid (EA)-treated human mature adipocytes. We observed activation of ER stress markers, impaired INS receptor signaling and increased lipogenesis in adipocytes after EA exposure. These effects could be alleviated by inhibiting ER stress in adipocytes in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Collectively these data suggest that ER stress may be involved in INS resistance and lipid metabolism disorders induced by high-fat diet containing iTFAs. These findings suggest that WAT could be regarded as a key target organ for inhibiting ER stress to reverse the impaired INS receptor signaling, alleviate lipid metabolism disorders, and provide a novel approach to prevent and treat INS resistance and dyslipidemia-related chronic diseases such as T2MD and CVDs.

Association between Serum Phospholipid Fatty Acid Levels and Adiposity among Lebanese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

There have been increases in the incidence of obesity in Lebanon over the past few decades. Fatty acid intake and metabolism have been postulated to influence obesity, but few epidemiological studies have been conducted. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between serum fatty acid levels and indicators of obesity in a cross-sectional study nested within a cohort of 501 Lebanese adults residing in Greater Beirut. A total of 395 available serum samples (129 men, 266 women) were profiled for phospholipid fatty acid composition. Spearman correlation coefficients adjusted for relevant confounders and corrected for multiple testing were calculated between serum fatty acids, desaturation indices, and indicators of adiposity (body mass index (BMI) and waist). BMI was significantly positively correlated with saturated fatty acids in men (r = 0.40, p < 0.0001, q < 0.0001) and women (r = 0.33, p < 0.0001, q < 0.0001). BMI was significantly positively correlated with monounsaturated fatty acid palmitoleic acid in women (r = 0.15, p = 0.01, q = 0.03). This study suggests that high blood levels of some saturated fatty acids and the monounsaturated fatty acid palmitoleic acid, likely derived from both dietary intakes of saturated fatty acids and endogenous lipogenesis, may have been associated with adiposity in the Lebanese population. The causality of these associations needs to be explored in experimental settings.

Effect of industrial trans-fatty acids-enriched diet on gut microbiota of C57BL/6 mice

PURPOSE

Previous studies have shown that industrially originated trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) are associated with several chronic diseases, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Because gut microbiota play a critical role in human health, diet competent induced gut microbiota dysbiosis may contributing to disease pathogenesis. Therefore, the present study examined the impact of iTFA on gut microbiota, help understanding the underling mechanism of iTFA-associated chronic diseases.

METHODS

Forty male 8-week-old mice were divided into 4 groups and randomly assigned to diets containing soybean oil (non-iTFA) or partially hydrogenated soybean oil (iTFA). The intervention groups were: (1) low soybean oil (LS); (2) high soybean oil (HS); (3) low partially hydrogenated oil (LH) and (4) high partially hydrogenated oil (HH). The gut microbiota profiles were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Physiological parameters and the inflammatory status of the small intestine and other tissues were analyzed. Short-chain fatty acid levels in feces were measured using gas chromatography.

RESULTS

The intake of iTFA increased the abundance of well-documented 'harmful' bacteria, such as Proteobacteria and Desulfovibrionaceae (P < 0.05), whereas it decreased relative abundance of 'beneficial' bacteria, such as Bacteroidetes, Lachnospiraceae, Bacteroidales S24-7 (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, the intake of iTFA increased the abundance of the probiotic Lactobacillaceae (P < 0.05). Additionally, the intake of iTFA induced increase of inflammatory parameters, as well as a numerical decrease of fecal butyric acid and valeric acid.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, to our knowledge, is the first to demonstrate that the consumption of iTFA resulted in a significant dysbiosis of gut microbiota, which may contribute to the development of chronic diseases associated with iTFA.

Trans-Fats Inhibit Autophagy Induced by Saturated Fatty Acids

Depending on the length of their carbon backbone and their saturation status, natural fatty acids have rather distinct biological effects. Thus, longevity of model organisms is increased by extra supply of the most abundant natural cis-unsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, but not by that of the most abundant saturated fatty acid, palmitic acid. Here, we systematically compared the capacity of different saturated, cis-unsaturated and alien (industrial or ruminant) trans-unsaturated fatty acids to provoke cellular stress in vitro, on cultured human cells expressing a battery of distinct biosensors that detect signs of autophagy, Golgi stress and the unfolded protein response. In contrast to cis-unsaturated fatty acids, trans-unsaturated fatty acids failed to stimulate signs of autophagy including the formation of GFP-LC3B-positive puncta, production of phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate, and activation of the transcription factor TFEB. When combined effects were assessed, several trans-unsaturated fatty acids including elaidic acid (the trans-isomer of oleate), linoelaidic acid, trans-vaccenic acid and palmitelaidic acid, were highly efficient in suppressing autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by palmitic, but not by oleic acid. Elaidic acid also inhibited autophagy induction by palmitic acid in vivo, in mouse livers and hearts. We conclude that the well-established, though mechanistically enigmatic toxicity of trans-unsaturated fatty acids may reside in their capacity to abolish cytoprotective stress responses induced by saturated fatty acids.

The influence of prenatal exposure to trans-fatty acids for development of childhood haematopoietic neoplasms (EnTrance): a natural societal experiment and a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the causes of childhood cancer, partly as not many children develop cancer, although childhood cancer is a leading cause of death by disease in the young. The young age of the children suggests that risk factors for childhood cancer may be present during pregnancy. Previous studies have shown that exposure to trans-fat, a type of unsaturated fat common in industrially produced foods (iTFA), has adverse health effects in adults, including the risk of developing cancer. Haematopoietic neoplasms are the most common cancer types among European children under the age of 15 years. This study will bring new knowledge as to whether trans-fat and other fatty acids may also increase the risk of developing haematopoietic neoplasms during childhood.

METHODS

We will investigate if the Danish iTFA legislation ban, which radically reduced the use of iTFA in foodstuffs, influenced the risk of childhood haematopoietic neoplasms in children born either before or after the change in legislation, adjusting for relevant secular trends. Further, in a case-control study, we will examine if levels of fatty acids in dried blood spots from newborns can predict the risk of developing childhood haematopoietic neoplasms. Permission from the Danish Data Protection Agency and the Ethical Committee has been granted.

DISCUSSION

The results from this study will provide important information about fatty acids in the mother's diet as a contributor to development of haematopoietic neoplasms during childhood, which may result in relevant preventive action.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not relevant.

Plasma trans-fatty acids levels and mortality: a cohort study based on 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)

Background

Trans-fatty acids (TFAs) occur in small amounts in nature but became widely produced by the food industry. The hazardous effects of different TFA subtypes to human health are controversial. We aimed to evaluate the association of plasma TFAs levels (elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, palmitelaidic acid, and linoelaidic acid) with mortality.

Methods

Utilizing 1999–2000 Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and linked mortality data, we performed a cohort study with 1456 participants and used Cox proportional hazards models and penalized smoothing spline plots to elucidate the relationships between TFAs and all-cause, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancer mortality.

Results

During 16,034 person-years of follow-up, a total of 221 deaths occurred. In the multivariate model, including mutual adjustment for the 4 TFA subtypes, elaidic acid associated with higher all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18 to 3.40, fourth quartiles versus second quartiles) and CVD mortality (HR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.07 to 2.50, per 10 units increase). Higher palmitelaidic acid levels were associated with increased cancer mortality (HR = 2.91, 95% CI = 1.09 to 7.81, fourth quartiles versus second quartiles). A J-shaped pattern was observed in the regression curve of elaidic acid and all-cause mortality, as well palmitelaidic acid and cancer mortality.

Conclusions

Plasma elaidic acid levels are associated with higher risk of all-cause and CVD mortality, and palmitelaidic acid levels are associated with higher cancer mortality in later life. Further studies are needed to investigate current inconsistent results in this field and the possible underlying mechanisms.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12944-017-0567-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Inflammatory Markers Are Positively Associated with Serum trans-Fatty Acids in an Adult American Population

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The relationship between serum trans-fatty acids (TFAs) and systemic inflammation markers is unclear. We investigated the association of serum TFAs with high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and fibrinogen in adult Americans.

METHODS

The 1999 to 2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) participants with measured data on hs-CRP and fibrinogen were included. TFAs were measured via capillary gas chromatography and mass spectrometry using negative chemical ionization. Analysis of covariance and multivariable-adjusted linear regression models were used to investigate the associations between these parameters, accounting for the survey design.

RESULTS

Of the 5446 eligible participants, 46.8% (n = 2550) were men. The mean age was 47.1 years overall: 47.8 years in men and 46.5 years in women (p = 0.085). After adjustment for age and sex, mean serum TFAs rose with the increasing quarters of hs-CRP and fibrinogen (both p < 0.001). In linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, race, education, marital status, body mass index, and smoking, serum TFAs were an independent predictor of plasma hs-CRP and fibrinogen levels.

CONCLUSION

A high level of TFAs appears to be a contributor to an unfavourable inflammatory profile. Because serum TFAs concentrations are affected by dietary TFA intake, these data suggest a possible contribution of TFAs intake modulation in the prevention of inflammation-related chronic diseases.

Association between serum phospholipid fatty acid levels and adiposity in Mexican women

Fatty acids (FAs) have been postulated to impact adiposity, but few epidemiological studies addressing this hypothesis have been conducted. This study investigated the association between serum phospholipid FAs (S-PLFAs) and indicators of obesity. BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were collected from 372 healthy Mexican women included as controls in a case-control study. S-PLFA percentages were determined through gas chromatography. Desaturation indices, SCD-16, SCD-18, FA desaturase (FADS)1, and FADS2, biomarkers of endogenous metabolism, were proxied respectively as 16:1n-7/16:0, 18:1n-9/18:0, 20:4n-6/20:3n-6, and 22:6n-3/20:5n-3. Multiple linear regressions adjusted for relevant confounders and corrected for multiple testing were conducted to determine the association between S-PLFA, desaturation indices, and indicators of adiposity. SCD-16 (β = 0.034, P = 0.001, q = 0.014), palmitoleic acid (β = 0.031, P = 0.001, q = 0.014), and dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (β = 0.043, P = 0.000, q = 0.0002) were positively associated with BMI. Total n-6 PUFAs (β = 1.497, P = 0.047, q = 0.22) and the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs (β = 0.034, P = 0.040, q = 0.19) were positively associated with WHR, while odd-chain FAs (pentadecanoic and heptadecanoic acid) showed negative associations with all the adiposity indicators. In conclusion, increased endogenous synthesis of palmitoleic acid and a high n-6/n-3 ratio are associated with increased adiposity, while odd-chain FAs are associated with decreased adiposity. Further studies are needed to determine the potential causality behind these associations.

Energy balance and obesity: what are the main drivers?

PURPOSE

The aim of this paper is to review the evidence of the association between energy balance and obesity.

METHODS

In December 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France convened a Working Group of international experts to review the evidence regarding energy balance and obesity, with a focus on Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC).

RESULTS

The global epidemic of obesity and the double burden, in LMICs, of malnutrition (coexistence of undernutrition and overnutrition) are both related to poor quality diet and unbalanced energy intake. Dietary patterns consistent with a traditional Mediterranean diet and other measures of diet quality can contribute to long-term weight control. Limiting consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages has a particularly important role in weight control. Genetic factors alone cannot explain the global epidemic of obesity. However, genetic, epigenetic factors and the microbiota could influence individual responses to diet and physical activity.

CONCLUSION

Energy intake that exceeds energy expenditure is the main driver of weight gain. The quality of the diet may exert its effect on energy balance through complex hormonal and neurological pathways that influence satiety and possibly through other mechanisms. The food environment, marketing of unhealthy foods and urbanization, and reduction in sedentary behaviors and physical activity play important roles. Most of the evidence comes from High Income Countries and more research is needed in LMICs.

Evaluation of postoperative lymphocele according to amounts and symptoms by using 3-dimensional CT volumetry in kidney transplant recipients

Purpose

To analyze the risk factors for postoperative lymphocele, for predicting and preventing complications.

Methods

We evaluated 92 kidney transplant recipients with multidetector CT (MDCT) at 1-month posttransplantation. From admission and 1-month postoperative records, data including diabetes, dialysis type, immunosuppressant use, steroid pulse therapy, and transplantation side were collected. Lymphocele volume was measured with 3-dimensional reconstructed, nonenhanced MDCT at one month postoperatively. The correlations between risk factors and lymphocele volume and between risk factors and symptomatic lymphocele (SyL) were analyzed. The cutoff was calculated by using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for SyL volume.

Results

Among 92 recipients, the mean volume was 44.53 ± 176.43 cm³ and 12 had SyL. Univariable analysis between risk factors and lymphocele volume indicated that donor age, retransplantation, and inferiorly located lymphocele were statistically significant. The ROC curve for SyL showed that 33.20 cm³ was the cutoff, with 83.3% sensitivity and 93.7% specificity. On univariable analysis between risk factors and SyL, steroid pulse, inferiorly located lymphocele, and >33.20 cm³ were statistically significant. Multivariable analysis indicated that steroid pulse, >33.20 cm³, and serum creatinine level at one month were significant factors.

Conclusion

Risk factors including donor age, retransplantation, steroid pulse therapy, and inferiorly located lymphocele are important predictors of large lymphoceles or SyL. In high-risk recipients, careful monitoring of renal function and early image surveillance such as CT or ultrasound are recommended. If the asymptomatic lymphocele is >33.20 cm³ or located inferiorly, early interventions can be considered while carefully observing the changes in symptoms.

The trans fatty acid elaidate affects the global DNA methylation profile of cultured cells and in vivo

Background

The deleterious effects of dietary trans fatty acids (tFAs) on human health are well documented. Although significantly reduced or banned in various countries, tFAs may trigger long-term responses that would represent a valid human health concern, particularly if tFAs alter the epigenome.

Methods

Based on these considerations, we asked whether the tFA elaidic acid (EA; tC18:1) has any effects on global DNA methylation and the transcriptome in cultured human THP-1 monocytes, and whether the progeny of EA-supplemented dams during either pregnancy or lactation in mice (n = 20 per group) show any epigenetic change after exposure.

Results

EA induced a biphasic effect on global DNA methylation in THP-1 cells, i.e. hypermethylation in the 1–50 μM concentration range, followed by hypomethylation up to the 200 μM dose. On the other hand, the cis isomer oleic acid (OA), a fatty acid with documented beneficial effects on human health, exerted a distinct response, i.e. its effects were weaker and only partially overlapping with EA’s. The maximal differential response between EA and OA was observed at the 50 μM dose. Array expression data revealed that EA induced a pro-inflammatory and adipogenic transcriptional profile compared with OA, although with modest effects on selected (n = 9) gene promoter methylation. In mice, maternal EA supplementation in utero or via the breastmilk induced global adipose tissue DNA hypermethylation in the progeny, that was detectable postnatally at the age of 3 months.

Conclusion

We document that global DNA hypermethylation is a specific and consistent response to EA in cell culture and in mice, and that EA may exert long-term effects on the epigenome following maternal exposure.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12944-016-0243-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Functional foods as potential therapeutic options for metabolic syndrome

Obesity as part of metabolic syndrome is a major lifestyle disorder throughout the world. Current drug treatments for obesity produce small and usually unsustainable decreases in body weight with the risk of major adverse effects. Surgery has been the only treatment producing successful long-term weight loss. As a different but complementary approach, lifestyle modification including the use of functional foods could produce a reliable decrease in obesity with decreased comorbidities. Functional foods may include fruits such as berries, vegetables, fibre-enriched grains and beverages such as tea and coffee. Although health improvements continue to be reported for these functional foods in rodent studies, further evidence showing the translation of these results into humans is required. Thus, the concept that these fruits and vegetables will act as functional foods in humans to reduce obesity and thereby improve health remains intuitive and possible rather than proven.

Plasma phospholipid arachidonic acid and lignoceric acid are associated with the risk of cardioembolic stroke

Cardioembolic (CE) stroke is the most severe subtype of ischemic stroke with high recurrence and mortality. However, there is still little information on the association of plasma fatty acid (FA) with CE stroke. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis whether the composition of plasma phospholipid FA is associated with the risk of CE stroke. The study subjects were collected from the Korea University Stroke Registry. Twenty-one subjects were selected as CE stroke group, and 39 age- and sex-matched subjects with non-CE stroke were selected as controls. Sociodemographic factors, clinical measurements, and plasma phospholipid FA compositions were compared between the groups. Logistic regression was used to obtain estimates of the associations between the relevant FAs and CE stroke. The result showed that the CE stroke group had higher levels of free FA and lower levels of triglycerides before and after adjustment (all P < .05). In the regression analysis, elaidic acid (18:1Tn9) and arachidonic acid (20:4n6) were positively related, but lignoceric acid (24:0) was negatively related to CE stroke in all constructed models (all P < .05). In conclusion, plasma phospholipid FA composition was associated with CE stroke risk in Korean population, with higher proportions of elaidic acid and arachidonic acid and lower proportion of lignoceric acid in CE stroke.