Quantification of Nervonic Acid in Human Milk in the First 30 Days of Lactation: Influence of Lactation Stages and Comparison with Infant Formulae

Integrated metabolome and microbiome strategy reveals the therapeutic effect of nervonic acid on Alzheimer's disease rats

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease. Nervonic acid is a component of breast milk and is also found in fish oil and specific vegetable oils. Studies have shown that nervonic acid is essential for the development of the human nervous system. In this study, Morris water maze (MWM) test and pathological analysis showed that nervonic acid could improve cognitive deficits and brain nerve damage in AD rats. Then, through sequencing, we found that nervonic acid increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, and decreased the abundance of Pseudomonadaceae_Pseudomonas. Not only that, nervonic acid also regulates the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and the levels of 29 fecal metabolites, and affects the metabolism of linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, and sphingolipid. Finally, we verified the regulatory effect of nervonic acid on metabolic enzyme activity.

Association Between Circulating Fatty Acids and Blood Pressure: A Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

High blood pressure (BP) or hypertension (HTN) remains key risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Circulating fatty acids (FAs) in the blood can affect directly cardiovascular hemodynamics and serves as building blocks for endocrine mediators modifying inflammatory processes and vascular function. This review aims to describe optimal circulating FA profiles for BP to adjust dietary recommendations for HTN prevention.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent research highlights the critical role of FAs in regulating inflammation and vascular function. Different FAs have varying effects on oxidative stress, insulin resistance, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction, all contributing to HTN. These findings emphasize the importance of FAs in managing BP and preventing CVD. Up-to-now, findings suggest that eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n3), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n3), arachidic acid (20:0), behenic acid (22:0) and lignoceric acid (24:0) were promising candidates in reducing BP and thus, dietary intake could be recommended. Conversely, dietary intake of myristic acid (14:0), palmitic acid (16:0), and industrial trans FAs (iTFAs) should be restricted due to their association with elevated BP. Further research is warranted for pentadecanoic acid (15:0), heptadecanoic acid (17:0), stearic acid (18:0), alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n3), docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n3), linoleic acid (18:2n6), dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (20:3n6), arachidonic acid (20:4n6), palmitoleic acid (16:1n7), and ruminant TFAs since their associations with BP present inconsistencies in the literature. Lifestyle factors such as dietary intake, physical activity, alcohol consumption and smoking should be considered when examining the relationship between FAs and BP. Overall, the FAs profile may contribute to BP level management; therefore, dietary recommendations are important.

Determination of Minor and Trace Elements in Breast Milk of Lactating Mothers in Early Lactation from Tehran, Iran Using Neutron Activation Analysis Method

This study aimed to evaluate the concentrations of both essential and non-essential elements in the breast milk of lactating mothers from Tehran, Iran, during the colostrum period. Neutron activation analysis (NAA) was used to measure the element concentrations. Additionally, the study assessed how these element concentrations were influenced by maternal factors such as age and economic status. Breast milk samples were collected from 95 lactating mothers, aged 18 to 41, during the early lactation phase, specifically within the colostrum period (2-7 days postpartum). The colostrum milk samples were freeze-dried, powdered, and irradiated at the Tehran Research Reactor for neutron activation analysis (NAA). This method was used to measure the concentrations of essential elements-calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl), and iodine (I)-as well as non-essential elements-aluminum (Al), bromine (Br), and rubidium (Rb). Descriptive statistics, including mean, median, maximum, minimum, and standard deviation, were calculated for each element. Statistical analyses, such as Pearson's correlation, were performed to assess relationships between the concentrations of various elements. Additionally, t-tests and p-values were employed to evaluate differences in element levels across maternal age groups (17-34 years vs. 35-45 years) and economic status (high/middle vs. low). The mean concentrations of the elements in dry breast milk powder samples were: Al = 6.9 mg/kg, Br = 11.9 mg/kg, Ca = 2.757 mg/g, Cl = 7.836 mg/g, I = 1.22 mg/kg, K = 5.853 mg/g, Na = 4.932 mg/g, and Rb = 3.69 mg/kg. Significant correlations were found between element pairs, such as Na-Cl, Br-Cl, Na-Br, Rb-K, and I-Cl. Maternal age significantly influenced bromine concentrations, with older mothers showing 22% higher Br levels (p = 0.038), while calcium levels were 15% lower but not statistically significant (p = 0.20). Maternal economic status significantly impacted calcium and potassium concentrations, with higher levels observed in mothers from better economic conditions (p = 0.02 and p = 0.025, respectively). This study highlights the elemental composition of breast milk samples of lactating mothers in Tehran and shows that maternal factors, such as age and economic status, can significantly influence the concentrations of specific elements in breast milk.

Lipid analysis of breast milk and formula for preterm infants and the application and prospects of novel structural lipids - a comprehensive review

Preterm infants, often characterized by lower birth weights and underdeveloped physiologies, necessitate specialized nutritional care. While breast milk stands as the ideal nutritional source, offering substantial energy through its fatty acid content to support the infants' growth and developmental needs, its usage might not always be feasible. Fatty acids in breast milk are critical for the development of these infants. In scenarios where breast milk is not an option, formula feeding becomes a necessary alternative. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the fatty acid profiles in both breast milk and formulas is crucial for addressing the distinct nutritional requirements of preterm infants. This paper aims to summarize the effects of lipid composition, structure, and positioning in breast milk and formula on the growth and development of preterm infants. Furthermore, it explores recent advancements in the use of novel structural lipids in formulas, laying the groundwork for future innovations in formula design specifically catered to the needs of preterm infants.

Changes in the Fatty Acid Profile of Lactating Women Living in Poland-A Comparison with the Fatty Acid Profile of Selected Infant Formulas

The present study examined the fatty acid content of human milk from Polish women living in the Warmia and Mazury region with regard to different lactation periods and compared it with the fatty acid content of selected infant formulas. The analysis included samples of breast milk-colostrum (n = 21), transitional milk (n = 26), and mature milk (n = 22). Fat was extracted using the Rose-Gottlieb method, and the fatty acid profile was determined by gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (FID). The proportion of SFAs (saturated fatty acids) > MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids) > PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) was determined in each fraction of breast milk and infant formula. Palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids predominated in breast milk and infant formulas. Colostrum contained lower contents of selected SFAs (caprylic, capric, lauric) and higher contents of selected MUFAs (ercucic) and PUFAs (arachidonic and docosahexaenoic) (p < 0.05) relative to transitional and mature milk. Infant formulas were distinguished from human milk in terms of their SFA (caproic, caprylic, lauric, arachidic), MUFA (oleic), and PUFA (linoleic, α-linoleic) content. It should be noted that infant formulas contained significantly lower trans fatty acid (TFA) content-more than thirty-six and more than nineteen times lower than in human milk. Furthermore, human milk contained branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) at 0.23-0.28%, while infant formulas contained only trace amounts of these acids. The average ratio of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids for human milk was 6.59:1 and was close to the worldwide ratio of 6.53 ± 1.72:1. Both principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) indicated significant differences in the fatty acid profile relative to lactation and a different profile of infant formulas relative to breast milk.

Microemulsions based on Acer truncatum seed oil and its fatty acids: fabrication, rheological property, and stability

AIMS

To construct the microemulsion delivery system (ME) loading ATSO and NA and study their physicochemical characteristics to enhance their stability and water solubility.

METHODS

By plotting ternary phase diagrams, the composition and proportions of the MEs were determined. The physicochemical characteristics and stability of MEs were evaluated by mean diameter, polydispersity index (PDI), pH, electrical conductivity, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), rheological behaviour measurement, and phase inversion temperature (PIT).

RESULTS

The MEs was composed with EL-40 as a surfactant and specifically with the addition of ethanol as a cosurfactant in NA-loaded ME. The mean diameters of ATSO-loaded ME and NA-loaded ME were 39.65 ± 0.24 nm and 32.90 ± 2.65 nm, and PDI were 0.49 ± 0.01 and 0.28 ± 0.14, respectively. The TEM confirmed the spherical and smooth morphology of MEs. The rheological results indicated that MEs are dilatant fluids with the advantages of low viscosity, high fluidity, and tolerance to temperature fluctuations. The mean diameter and PDI of MEs showed no significant change after storage at 25 °C for 28 days and centrifugation.

CONCLUSION

The prepared microemulsions could expand the application prospects of ATSO and NA products in cosmetics, medicine, foods and other fields.

UPLC-Q-TOF/MS based serum and urine metabolomics strategy to analyze the mechanism of nervonic acid in treating Alzheimer's disease

Nervonic acid is a natural component of breast milk and is frequently used as a food additive due to its excellent neuroprotective effects. Although it has been reported that nervonic acid may play a role in the recovery of human cognitive impairment, its specific mechanism of action is still unclear. In this study, the results of serum biochemical indexes showed that nervonic acid improved inflammation and reduced amyloid β peptide (Aβ) deposition and tau protein phosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) rats. Subsequently, we further used a metabolomics approach to investigate the potential mechanism of action of nervonic acid in the treatment of AD. The results of serum and urine metabolomics study showed that the intervention of nervonic acid significantly reversed the metabolic profile disorder in AD rats. A total of 52 metabolites were identified. They mainly involved linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolism, and all these metabolic pathways were associated with the emergence of inflammation in vivo. It suggests that the therapeutic effect of nervonic acid on AD is likely to be produced by ameliorating inflammation. The results obtained in this study provide new insights into the mechanism of nervonic acid treatment of AD and lay a foundation for the clinical application of nervonic acid in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Nervonic Acid Inhibits Replicative Senescence of Human Wharton's Jelly-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Cellular senescence causes cell cycle arrest and promotes permanent cessation of proliferation. Since the senescence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) reduces proliferation and multipotency and increases immunogenicity, aged MSCs are not suitable for cell therapy. Therefore, it is important to inhibit cellular senescence in MSCs. It has recently been reported that metabolites can control aging diseases. Therefore, we aimed to identify novel metabolites that regulate the replicative senescence in MSCs. Using a fecal metabolites library, we identified nervonic acid (NA) as a candidate metabolite for replicative senescence regulation. In replicative senescent MSCs, NA reduced senescence-associated β-galactosidase positive cells, the expression of senescence-related genes, as well as increased stemness and adipogenesis. Moreover, in non-senescent MSCs, NA treatment delayed senescence caused by sequential subculture and promoted proliferation. We confirmed, for the first time, that NA delayed and inhibited cellular senescence. Considering optimal concentration, duration, and timing of drug treatment, NA is a novel potential metabolite that can be used in the development of technologies that regulate cellular senescence.

Efficient Enzymatic Enrichment of High-purity Nervonic Acid from Malania oleifera Seed Oil

Nervonic acid (NA) is a monounsaturated fatty acid vital for brain health and is of emerging importance in various industrial applications, including therapeutics, food, and cosmetics. Given the growing demands of the food and pharmaceutical industries, there's a pressing need for high-purity NA. Previously, NA constituents in plant seed oils were chemically transformed into nervonic acid ethyl ester (NAEE) to facilitate extraction from seed oils. In this study, we present an enzymatic approach to convert NA constituents in Malania oleifera seed oil to NAEE. Combined with the utilization of the semi-preparative chromatography, we achieved a remarkable purity of 97.52% NAEE. Compared to conventional chemical preparations characterized by multiple steps, prolonged processing times, and low yields and purities, our enzymatic method stands out as a more efficient and advantageous alternative. On top of that, this innovative approach is environmentally friendly and circumvents health and safety issues associated with chemical processes.

Quantitative Analysis of Nervonic and Erucic Acids in Human Milk: Comparison with Infant Formula with Different Fat Sources and Nutritional Stages

This study aims to quantitatively analyze nervonic (C24:1 n-9) and erucic (C22:1 n-9) acids in human milk (HM) collected from Korean mothers, along with the infant formulas (IFs) with different fat sources and nutritional stages. The content of nervonic and erucic acids in HM from Korean mothers were 2.13 and 2.81 mg/100 g, accounting for 0.06 and 0.08% of the total fatty acids (FAs), respectively. These acids in IFs based on fat from plant-oil formula were higher than those in IFs based on cow milk formula. The composition of erucic acid in IFs based on cow milk formula and plant-oil formula increased with the nutritional stages, while nervonic acid only increased in IFs based on the plant-oil formula.

Higher Availability of Long-Chain Monounsaturated Fatty Acids in Preterm than in Full-Term Human Milk

While the role of n-3 and n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) in the maturation of the infantile nervous system is extensively studied and relatively well-characterized, data on the potential developmental importance of the n-9 long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid (LCMUFA), nervonic acid (NA, C24:1n-9) are scarce and ambiguous. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to reanalyze our available data on the contribution of NA and its LCMUFA precursors, gondoic acid (C20:1n-9) and erucic acid (EA, C22:1n-9) to the fatty acid composition of human milk (HM) during the first month of lactation in mothers of both preterm (PT) and full-term (FT) infants. HM samples were obtained daily during the first week of lactation, and then on the 14th, 21st, and 28th days. Values of the LCMUFAs, C20:1n-9, EA, and NA were significantly higher in colostrum than in transient and mature HM. Consequently, there were highly significant inverse associations between LCMUFA values and the duration of lactation. Moreover, C20:1n-9, EA, and NA values were monotonously, considerably, and at many timepoints significantly higher in PT than in FT HM samples. By the 28th day of lactation, summarized LCMUFA values in PT HM samples declined to the level measured in FT HM samples on the first day of lactation; however, EA and NA values were still significantly higher in PT than in FT HM on the 28th day. Significantly higher availability of LCMUFAs in PT than in FT HM underpins the potential biological role of this hitherto somewhat neglected group of fatty acids.

A longitudinal study of fatty acid profiles, macronutrient levels, and plasmin activity in human milk

Introduction

Human milk provides nutrients essential for infant growth and health, levels of which are dynamic during lactation.

Methods

In this study, changes in macronutrients, fatty acids, and plasmin activities over the first six months of lactation in term milk were studied.

Results

There was a significant influence of lactation stage on levels of protein and plasmin activities, but not on levels of fat and carbohydrate in term milk. Concerning fatty acids in term milk, levels of caproic acid and α-linolenic acid increased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas those of arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid decreased, in the six months after birth. Significant impacts of maternal pre-pregnancy BMI and infant gender on fatty acid profiles were also found. Multivariate statistical analysis showed that protein level, plasmin activity, and several fatty acids (α-linolenic acid, lignoceric acid, and docasadienoic acid) contributed strongly to discrimination of milk from different lactational stages.

Discussion

The study demonstrates that not all but some fatty acids were influenced by lactation, whereas protein and protease levels showed clear decreasing trends during lactation, which may help in understanding the nutritional requirements of infants.

Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics reveal the neuroprotective effect of nervonic acid on LPS-induced AD model mice

Nervonic acid (NA) is one of the long-chain fatty acids with significant biological activity that has been widely studied in recent years. It is believed that NA may play a crucial role in the recovery of human cognitive disorders. Although many literatures have shown that NA has some neuroprotective effect in experimental animal models, the detailed neuroprotective mechanism of NA is still poorly understood. In this study, we applied behavioral, transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches to analyze the neuroprotective effect of NA and its molecular mechanism in AD (Alzheimer's disease) model mice. We demonstrated that NA improved motor skills and learning and memory abilities of mice at the behavioral level. To further understand the specific pathways involved in this protective effect, we applied the metabolomics and transcriptomics profilings and focused on the expression patterns of genes that NA might alter, particularly those related to the accumulation of metabolites in the brain. According to the results, pathways related to neuroinflammation were significantly increased in LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced AD mice compared with the normal control, and pathways related to neuronal growth and synaptic plasticity were significantly downregulated. When NA was used for protection, these signaling pathways induced by LPS were partially reversed. At the same time, compared with the AD model group, upregulation of arachidonic acid metabolism, purine metabolism, and primary bile acid biosynthesis and downregulation of amino acid metabolic pathways were particularly pronounced in the NA treatment group. We also verified the enzymes of some metabolic pathways were consistent with transcriptome result. In summary, our results show that NA can significantly ameliorate LPS-induced neuroinflammation and deterioration of learning and memory, and exerts a neuroprotective function through regulation of multiple gene transcription and metabolism pathways. In particular, the arachidonic acid metabolism which related to inflammation and the amino acids metabolism which related to the synthesis of neurotransmitters were most significant response to NA treatment. Our results provided the first preliminary evidences for molecular mechanism investigation of NA from a combined transcriptome and metabolome perspective.

Comprehensive lipidomic analysis of milk polar lipids using ultraperformance supercritical fluid chromatography-mass spectrometry

Polar lipids in milk are receiving increasing interest due to their bioactivities. However, milk polar lipids present a wide range of physical-chemical properties at different concentrations, making their analysis challenging. In this study, we presented a comprehensive lipidomic method using ultraperformance supercritical fluid chromatography (UPSFC)-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (Q-TOF-MS), which enabled the separation of 18 lipid classes (including nonpolar lipids, cholesterol, ceramide, glycerophospholipids, sphingomyelin, and gangliosides) within 10 min. The method was used to analyze the polar lipids in seven samples, including human milk, other mammalian milk and milk fat globule membrane ingredients, identifying 14 lipid classes containing 219 lipid molecular species. A mass spectrometry data processing strategy applicable for high-throughput studies was also developed and validated.

Medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols and di-unsaturated fatty acyl-palmitoyl-glycerols in Chinese human milk: Association with region during the lactation

The triacylglycerols (TAGs) of medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols (MLCT) and di-unsaturated fatty acyl-palmitoyl-glycerols (UPU) in human milk provide better nutritional effects, and should be prioritized as crucial focuses on neonatal nutrition research. However, little has been done on the influences of the lactation stage and regional diversity on MLCT and UPU. In this study, we collected 204 human milk samples during colostrum, 1st and 4th month from the north (Baotou), central (Beijing), east (Jinan), southwest (Kunming), southeast (Shenzhen), and northwest (Xining) regions of China. There were 122 species of TAGs detected with UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, including 60 kinds of MLCT and 15 kinds of UPU. The MLCT and UPU type TAGs in human milk were ~27 and ~38%, respectively. The sum content of MLCT and UPU in human milk was stable. Compared to the regional diversity, lactation stages showed more obvious influences on MLCT and UPU composition. Moreover, a summary of TAG studies indicated that Chinese human milk showed a higher ratio of O-P-L to O-P-O than in western countries.

Triacylglycerol fingerprint of sow milks during different lactation stages and from different breeds

Sow milk fats not only provide energy but also essential nutrients for piglets. Thus, feeding strategies must be aligned with fat composition, especially triacylglycerols (TAGs) and their isomers. The triacylglycerol (TAG) profiles of sow milk fats from five typical breeds (Landrace × Large White, Landrace, Large White, Duroc, Pietrain) and two lactation stages (colostrum and milk) were systematically studied. A total of 45 major TAG species were identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The most abundant TAG was oleic acid-palmitic acid-linoleic acid (O-P-L) (13.92% and 12.03% in colostrum and milk, respectively), which was not significantly different in colostrum among all breeds. TAG composition of sow milk was affected mainly by the lactation stage rather than sow breed. Furthermore, TAG compositions of sow milk fats were similar to those of human milk fats, but significant differences were observed between commercial piglet formulas and sow milk. Therefore, the results will contribute to the optimization of piglet formulas to improve the growth and wellness of piglets, as well as potentially providing a basis for food usage as a new source of nutrients for human infants in future.

Human Milk Lipid Profiles around the World: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Reported breast milk lipid concentrations may vary with geographical region, postnatal age, and year of sample collection. In this review, we summarized data on the concentrations of total fat, total phospholipids, cholesterol, and fatty acids in human milk worldwide and their variation according to lactation stage, study area, and sample collection year. A systematic literature search was performed using the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Medline databases for English-language papers and Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for Chinese-language papers. A total of 186 studies evaluating the human milk lipid profiles were included. According to random-effects models based on worldwide data, the summarized means (95% CIs) as percentages of total fat were 42.2% (41.1%, 43.3%) for SFAs, 36.6% (35.6%, 37.5%) for MUFAs, and 21.0% (19.3%, 22.7%) for PUFAs. However, the study heterogeneity was high for most types of fatty acids (I2 > 99%). Human milk from Western countries had higher concentrations of MUFAs and 18:1n-9 (ω-9), but lower concentrations of PUFAs, 18:2n-6, 20:4n-6, 18:3n-3, 20:5n-3, 22:6n-3, and total n-6 PUFA compared with those from non-Western countries (P < 0.001-0.011). Significant lactation stage differences were observed for total fat and some individual fatty acids. The concentrations of SFAs and 16:0 were significantly negatively correlated with sampling year (P < 0.001-0.028). In contrast, a significant positive correlation between the concentrations of 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-3 and sampling year was observed (P < 0.001-0.035). Our results suggest that the pooling of data on human milk lipid profiles in different studies should be done with caution due to the high between-study heterogeneity. The concentration of lipids, including total fat, cholesterol, and specific fatty acids, differs in human milk according to lactation stage, geographical region, and year of sample collection.

Nervonic Acid Attenuates Accumulation of Very Long-Chain Fatty Acids and is a Potential Therapy for Adrenoleukodystrophy

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is an X-linked inherited peroxisomal disorder due to mutations in the ALD protein and characterized by accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA), specifically hexacosanoic acid (C26:0). This can trigger other pathological processes such as mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which if involves the brain tissues can result in a lethal form of the disease called childhood cerebral ALD. With the recent addition of ALD to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel, there is an increase in the number of individuals who are identified with ALD. However, currently, there is no approved treatment for pre-symptomatic individuals that can arrest or delay symptom development. Here, we report our observations investigating nervonic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid as a potential therapy for ALD. Using ALD patient-derived fibroblasts, we examined whether nervonic acid can reverse VLCFA accumulation similar to erucic acid, the active ingredient in Lorenzo's oil, a dietary intervention believed to alter disease course. We have shown that nervonic acid can reverse total lipid C26:0 accumulation in a concentration-dependent manner in ALD cell lines. Further, we show that nervonic acid can protect ALD fibroblasts from oxidative insults, presumably by increasing intracellular ATP production. Thus, nervonic acid can be a potential therapeutic for individuals with ALD, which can alter cellular biochemistry and improve its function.

Evaluation of total, sn-2 fatty acid, and triacylglycerol composition in commercial infant formulas on the Chinese market: A comparative study of preterm and term formulas

Preterm infants with physiological immaturity require higher lipid provision than term infants. This study compared the lipid composition, including total, sn-2 fatty acid, and triacylglycerol (TAG) compositions in 14 preterm formulas and 25 term formulas in the Chinese market, in 2020-2021. Preterm formula had higher medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) and comparable C22:6n-3 (DHA) contents than term formula. Notably, significantly lower C16:0 and C18:0 (p < 0.001) were distributed on the sn-2 position in preterm formula. Two hundred and thirteen kinds of TAG molecular species were identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. In preterm formula, significantly higher Ca-Ca-Cy and Ca-Ca-Ca (p < 0.001) existed. These clear distinctions showed the challenge of the progress in preterm formula, such as DHA status, MCFA pattern, and TAG esterified with palmitic acid on the sn-2 position.

Plant monounsaturated fatty acids: Diversity, biosynthesis, functions and uses

Monounsaturated fatty acids are straight-chain aliphatic monocarboxylic acids comprising a unique carbon‑carbon double bond, also termed unsaturation. More than 50 distinct molecular structures have been described in the plant kingdom, and more remain to be discovered. The evolution of land plants has apparently resulted in the convergent evolution of non-homologous enzymes catalyzing the dehydrogenation of saturated acyl chain substrates in a chemo-, regio- and stereoselective manner. Contrasted enzymatic characteristics and different subcellular localizations of these desaturases account for the diversity of existing fatty acid structures. Interestingly, the location and geometrical configuration of the unsaturation confer specific characteristics to these molecules found in a variety of membrane, storage, and surface lipids. An ongoing research effort aimed at exploring the links existing between fatty acid structures and their biological functions has already unraveled the importance of several monounsaturated fatty acids in various physiological and developmental contexts. What is more, the monounsaturated acyl chains found in the oils of seeds and fruits are widely and increasingly used in the food and chemical industries due to the physicochemical properties inherent in their structures. Breeders and plant biotechnologists therefore develop new crops with high monounsaturated contents for various agro-industrial purposes.

Dietary Sphingomyelin Metabolism and Roles in Gut Health and Cognitive Development

Sphingomyelin (SM) is a widely occurring sphingolipid that is a major plasma membrane constituent. Milk and dairy products are rich SM sources, and human milk has high SM content. Numerous studies have evaluated the roles of SM in maintaining cell membrane structure and cellular signal transduction. There has been a growing interest in exploring the role of dietary SM, especially from human milk, in imparting health benefits. This review focuses on recent publications regarding SM content in several dietary sources and dietary SM metabolism. SM digestion and absorption are slow and incomplete and mainly occur in the middle sections of the small intestine. This review also evaluates the effect of dietary SM on gut health and cognitive development. Studies indicate that SM may promote gut health by reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption in adults. However, there has been a lack of data supporting clinical trials. An association between milk SM and neural development is evident before childhood. Hence, additional studies and well-designed randomized controlled trials that incorporate dietary SM evaluation, SM metabolism, and its long-term functions on infants and children are required.

A Review of Nervonic Acid Production in Plants: Prospects for the Genetic Engineering of High Nervonic Acid Cultivars Plants

Nervonic acid (NA) is a very-long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid that plays crucial roles in brain development and has attracted widespread research interest. The markets encouraged the development of a refined, NA-enriched plant oil as feedstocks for the needed further studies of NA biological functions to the end commercial application. Plant seed oils offer a renewable and environmentally friendly source of NA, but their industrial production is presently hindered by various factors. This review focuses on the NA biosynthesis and assembly, NA resources from plants, and the genetic engineering of NA biosynthesis in oil crops, discusses the factors that affect NA production in genetically engineered oil crops, and provides prospects for the application of NA and prospective trends in the engineering of NA. This review emphasizes the progress made toward various NA-related topics and explores the limitations and trends, thereby providing integrated and comprehensive insight into the nature of NA production mechanisms during genetic engineering. Furthermore, this report supports further work involving the manipulation of NA production through transgenic technologies and molecular breeding for the enhancement of crop nutritional quality or creation of plant biochemical factories to produce NA for use in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.

Protective Effect of Nervonic Acid Against 6-Hydroxydopamine-Induced Oxidative Stress in PC-12 Cells

Increased oxidative stress in the human brain is observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), and is considered to be a major cause of progression of these disease states. A very long-chain fatty acid, nervonic acid (NA), is the main fatty acid found in various sphingolipid species in the central nervous system. NA plays an important role in forming the plasma membrane's lipid bilayer and in maintaining normal myelin function. In this study, we examined the neuroprotective effect of NA against rat pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cells stimulated by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), which served as a cell model of PD. PC-12 cells were pre-treated with different concentrations of NA for 48 h then subsequently co-treated with NA and 6-OHDA for 48 h to induce cellular oxidative stress. Cell viability was significantly increased by pre-treatment with a very low concentration of NA. The level of malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation, was significantly decreased in NA-treated cells. The expression levels of superoxide dismutases (Mn SOD and Cu/Zn SOD) and γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCLC), responsible for the synthesis of glutathione, were significantly increased, indicating that pre-treatment with NA activated the cellular antioxidant defense system. These results suggest that NA may play a role as a neuroprotective mediator in the brain.

Human Milk and Lactation

Human milk is uniquely tailored to meet infants’ specific nutritional requirements [...]