Fish oil-based lipid emulsions in the treatment of parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease: an ongoing positive experience

Cholestasis is associated with a higher rate of complications in both medical and surgical necrotizing enterocolitis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between cholestasis and outcomes in medical and surgical necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 1472 infants with NEC [455 medical (mNEC) and 1017 surgical (sNEC)] from the Children's Hospital Neonatal Database.

RESULTS

The prevalence of cholestasis was lower in mNEC versus sNEC (38.2% vs 70.1%, p < 0.001). In both groups, cholestasis was associated with lower birth gestational age [mNEC: OR 0.79 (95% CI 0.68-0.92); sNEC: OR 0.86 (95% CI 0.79-0.95)] and increased days of parenteral nutrition [mNEC: OR 1.08 (95% CI 1.04-1.13); sNEC: OR 1.01 (95% CI 1.01-1.02)]. For both groups, the highest direct bilirubin was associated with the composite outcome mortality or length of stay >75th percentile [mNEC: OR 1.21 (95% CI 1.06-1.38); sNEC: OR 1.06 (95% CI 1.03-1.09)].

CONCLUSION

Cholestasis with both medical NEC and surgical NEC is associated with adverse patient outcomes including increased mortality or extreme length of stay.

Clinical Correlates of Cholestasis in Preterm Infants with Surgical Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Background

We sought to investigate the clinical determinants and outcomes of cholestasis in preterm infants with surgical necrotizing enterocolitis (sNEC).

Methods

Retrospective comparison of clinical information in preterm infants who developed cholestasis vs those who did not.

Results

Sixty-two (62/91, 68.1%) infants with NEC developed cholestasis at any time following the onset of illness. Cholestasis was seen more frequently in those who had received ionotropic support at 24 hours following sNEC diagnosis (87.1% vs 58.6%; p = 0.002), had higher mean C-reactive protein levels 2 weeks after NEC diagnosis (p = 0.009), had blood culture-positive sepsis [25 (40.3%) vs 4 (13.8%); p = 0.011], received parenteral nutrition (PN) for longer durations (108.4 ± 56.63 days vs 97.56 ± 56.05 days; p = 0.007), had higher weight-for-length z scores at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age [-1.0 (-1.73, -0.12) vs -1.32 (-1.76, -0.76); p = 0.025], had a longer length of hospital stay (153.7 ± 77.57 days vs 112.51 ± 85.22 days; p = 0.024), had intestinal failure more often (61% vs 25.0%, p = 0.003), had more surgical complications (50% vs 27.6%; p = 0.044), and had >1 complication (21% vs 3.4%; p = 0.031). Using linear regression, the number of days after surgery when feeds could be started [OR 15.4; confidence interval (CI) 3.71, 27.13; p = 0.009] and the postoperative ileus duration (OR 11.9, CI 1.1, 22.8; p = 0.03) were independently associated with direct bilirubin between 2 and 5 mg/dL (mild-moderate cholestasis) at 2 months of age. The duration of PN was independently associated with direct bilirubin >5 mg/dL (severe cholestasis) at 2 months of age in these patients.

Conclusion

Cholestasis was seen in 68% of infants following surgical NEC. The most likely contributive factors are intestinal failure and subsequent PN dependence for longer periods. Our data suggest that identification and prevention of risk factors such as sepsis and surgical complications and early feeds following NEC surgery may improve outcomes.

[Value of the combined use of aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index and total bile acid for predicting parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in preterm infants with gestational age <34 weeks]

OBJECTIVES

To explore the value of the combined use of aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and total bile acid (TBA) for predicting parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) in preterm infants with gestational age <34 weeks.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on medical data of 270 preterm infants born at <34 weeks of gestation who received parenteral nutrition (PN) during hospitalization in the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College from January 2019 to September 2022, including 128 infants with PNAC and 142 infants without PNAC. The medical data between the two groups were compared, and predictive factors for the development of PNAC were explored through multivariate logistic regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the value of APRI alone, TBA alone, and the combination of both for predicting PNAC.

RESULTS

TBA levels in the PNAC group after 1, 2, and 3 weeks of PN were higher than those in the non-PNAC group (P<0.05). APRI in the PNAC group after 2 and 3 weeks of PN was higher than that in the non-PNAC group (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that elevated APRI and TBA after 2 weeks of PN were predictive factors for PNAC in preterm infants (P<0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) for predicting PNAC by combining APRI and TBA after 2 weeks of PN were 0.703, 0.803, and 0.806, respectively. The AUC for predicting PNAC by combining APRI and TBA was higher than that of APRI or TBA alone (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

After 2 weeks of PN, the value of combining APRI and TBA for predicting PNAC is high in preterm infants with gestational age <34 weeks.

Exclusive Fish Oil Lipid Emulsion Rescue Strategy Improves Cholestasis in Neonates on Partially Fish Oil-Based Lipid Emulsion: A Pilot Study

Resolution of parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease has been identified in infants receiving SMOFlipid™ or a 100% fish oil lipid emulsion (FOLE). However, the effect of FOLE is unknown when the previous emulsion received is a mixed lipid emulsion containing fish oil. This observational pilot study reports data regarding the use of Omegaven™ after the diagnosis of cholestasis while receiving SMOFlipid™. We conducted a retrospective review of medical charts of neonates in which a partially fish oil-based lipid emulsion was replaced by a fish oil lipid emulsion at 1 g/kg/day due to cholestasis. Thirty-eight infants (92.1% preterm, being 44.7% born below 28 weeks' gestation), received FOLE. Birth weight was 1390 (743.0; 2298) grams. The age that cholestasis diagnosed was 15.0 (10.0; 24.8) days. The fish oil emulsion was administered for 38.5 (11.2; 51.8) days. In 73.7% (28/38) of the neonates, the cholestasis was resolved. In 34.2% (13/38), resolution happened before FOLE discontinuation. In addition, in the rest of the neonates (15) in whom cholestasis resolved, resolution occurred after FOLE discontinuation. Nine of the neonates died. In conclusion, the use of a 100% fish oil-based emulsion in neonates afflicted with cholestasis developed while on a partially fish oil-based emulsion is associated with a bilirubin decrease.

Clinical and neurodevelopmental outcomes in premature infants exposed to intravenous fish- and soybean oil-based lipid emulsions

BACKGROUND

The optimal composition of lipid emulsions in parenteral nutrition (PN) for premature infants remains controversial. This study examined the effects of a combination of soybean oil-based (SoyLE) and fish oil-based (FishLE) lipid emulsions compared to FishLE as monotherapy on the lipid and fatty acid profiles and clinical outcomes of premature infants requiring prolonged PN.

METHODS

42 premature infants received FishLE+SoyLE or FishLE. Serum concentrations of lipoproteins and 29 fatty acids (FA) were measured at baseline, 4, and 8 weeks of PN and growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes were measured at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of life.

RESULTS

Lipid profiles were similar between groups. Plasma concentrations of ω-6 fatty acids tended to decrease over time in both groups. Concentrations of most ω-3 fatty acids, in particular docosapentaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, were significantly increased over time in the FishLE+SoyLE group whereas they did not change in the FishLE alone group. However, serum concentrations of almost all fatty acids were similar between groups at the end of the study period. No differences in growth parameters including weight, height, fronto-occipital circumference (FOC), and body mass index (BMI) were observed up to two years of age. Similarly, there were no differences in neurodevelopmental test scores at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age.

CONCLUSIONS

No substantial differences in lipid profiles and short clinical outcomes were found in infants exposed to FishLE+SoyLE when compared to FishLE.

Parenteral Nutrition

Prematurity and other complications at birth are nutritional emergencies. Parenteral nutrition is a bridge to enteral nutrition for a few days or months, and sometimes the sole source of nutrition for life. Parenteral nutrition regimens are constructed to provide adequate and balanced energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients to support growth and prevent deficiencies. Neonatal parenteral nutrition regimens are complicated by periodic shortages of essential products, compatibility challenges, and contaminants. Newborns benefit from serial growth assessments, monitoring of biochemical status, nutrition-focused physical examinations, and management by a multidisciplinary team to ensure adequacy of parenteral nutrition and promote best outcomes.

Parenteral Nutrition and Oxidant Load in Neonates

Neonates with preterm, gastrointestinal dysfunction and very low birth weights are often intolerant to oral feeding. In such infants, the provision of nutrients via parenteral nutrition (PN) becomes necessary for short-term survival, as well as long-term health. However, the elemental nutrients in PN can be a major source of oxidants due to interactions between nutrients, imbalances of anti- and pro-oxidants, and environmental conditions. Moreover, neonates fed PN are at greater risk of oxidative stress, not only from dietary sources, but also because of immature antioxidant defences. Various interventions can lower the oxidant load in PN, including the supplementation of PN with antioxidant vitamins, glutathione, additional arginine and additional cysteine; reduced levels of pro-oxidant nutrients such as iron; protection from light and oxygen; and proper storage temperature. This narrative review of published data provides insight to oxidant molecules generated in PN, nutrient sources of oxidants, and measures to minimize oxidant levels.

Intravenous Lipid Emulsions in the Prevention and Treatment of Liver Disease in Intestinal Failure

The development of intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) in pediatric and adult patients on parenteral nutrition is usually multifactorial in nature due to nutritional and non-nutritional causes. The role of lipid therapy as a contributing cause is well-established with the pathophysiological pathways now better understood. The review focuses on risk factors for IFALD development, biological effects of lipids, lipid emulsions and the mechanisms of lipid toxicity observed in laboratory animals followed by a synopsis of clinical studies in pediatric and adult patients. The introduction of fish oil-based lipid emulsions that provide partial or complete lipid replacement therapy has resulted in resolution of IFALD that had been associated with soybean oil-based therapy. Based on case reports and cohort studies in pediatric and adult patients who were at risk or developed overt liver disease, we now have more evidence that an early switch to partial or complete fish oil–based lipid therapy should be implemented in order to successfully halt and reverse IFALD.

Impact of Parenteral Lipid Emulsion Components on Cholestatic Liver Disease in Neonates

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a life-saving intervention for infants that are unable to feed by mouth. Infants that remain on TPN for extended periods of time are at risk for the development of liver injury in the form of parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis (PNAC). Current research suggests the lipid component of TPN is a factor in the development of PNAC. Most notably, the fatty acid composition, vitamin E concentration, and presence of phytosterols are believed key mediators of lipid emulsion driven PNAC development. New emulsions comprised of fish oil and medium chain triglycerides show promise for reducing the incidence of PNAC in infants. In this review we will cover the current clinical studies on the benefit of fish oil and medium chain triglyceride containing lipid emulsions on the development of PNAC, the current constituents of lipid emulsions that may modulate the prevalence of PNAC, and potential new supplements to TPN to further reduce the incidence of PNAC.

Intravenous Lipid Emulsions in the NICU

The clinical goals of intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) have changed since their initial development. In the past, 100% soybean oil was used to provide energy and prevent an essential fatty acid deficiency. Now, different oil sources are used with the goal of improving nutritional status and preventing common neonatal comorbidities. We now have a better understanding of specific ILE constituents, namely, fatty acids, vitamin E, and phytosterols, and how these components contribute to complications such as intestinal failure-associated liver disease. This review addresses the development and composition of different ILEs and summarizes how individual ILE ingredients affect infant metabolism and health.

Short bowel syndrome in infancy: recent advances and practical management

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a rare condition characterised by extensive loss of intestinal mass secondary to congenital or acquired disease. The outcomes are determined by dependency on parenteral nutrition (PN), its possible complications and factors that influence intestinal adaptation. In order to achieve the best results, patients should be managed by a specialised multidisciplinary team with the aims of promoting growth and development, stimulating intestinal adaptation and preventing possible complications. This involves timely surgical management aimed at rescuing maximum bowel length and eventually re-establishing intestinal continuity where appropriate. A combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition needs to be targeted towards maintaining a balance between fulfilling the nutritional and metabolic needs of the child while preventing or at least minimising potential complications. Enteral nutrition and establishment of oral feeding play a fundamental role in stimulating bowel adaptation and promoting enteral autonomy. Other measures to promote enteral autonomy include the chyme recycling in patients where bowel is not in continuity, autologous gastrointestinal reconstruction and pharmacological treatments, including promising new therapies like teduglutide. Strategies such as lipid reduction, changing the type of lipid emulsion and cycling PN are associated with a reduction in the rates of intestinal failure-associated liver disease. Even though vast improvements have been made in the surgical and medical management of SBS, there is still lack of consensus in many aspects and collaboration is essential.

Clinical application of fish-oil intravenous lipid emulsion in adult home parenteral nutrition patients

BACKGROUND

High-ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are noted to contribute to development of intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) in home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Fish oil (FO) has been added to latest generation of lipid injectable emulsion (ILE) to increase ω-3:ω-6 PUFA ratio; however, appropriate dose of FO to treat IFALD is unknown.

METHODS

After approval of exclusive FO ILE in the US for pediatric patients, we noted 2 adult patients with ongoing IFALD despite transition to mixed-oil (MO) ILE. They were transitioned to off-label FO ILE after review of literature regarding use of FO ILE in adult HPN patients was conducted to guide management.

RESULTS

The first case involves a 40-year-old female receiving HPN with IFALD refractory to MO ILE. MO ILE (with 15% FO) was provided at 50 g/d for 3 d/wk and combined with FO ILE at 50 g/d for 4 d/wk. This combination resulted in improvement in liver studies and allowed for decrease in dextrose calories. The second case involves a 49-year-old male receiving HPN (secondary to complications of necrotizing pancreatitis) who developed IFALD. FO ILE was used as the sole source of lipids and led to improvement in liver function tests. No evidence of essential fatty acid deficiency was found in either case.

CONCLUSIONS

Current case presentations and review of literature support the use of FO ILE to increase ω-3 PUFAs in patients with IFALD refractory to MO ILE. Additional research is necessary to delineate the dose of FO ILE necessary to achieve benefit.

Intravenous Fish Oil Monotherapy as a Source of Calories and Fatty Acids Promotes Age-Appropriate Growth in Pediatric Patients with Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease

OBJECTIVE

To compare growth in children with intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) who received a fish oil intravenous lipid emulsion (FOLE) to those who received a soybean oil intravenous lipid emulsion (SOLE).

STUDY DESIGN

This multisite, retrospective study pair-matched FOLE (n = 82) to SOLE recipients (n = 41) using baseline serum direct bilirubin levels and postmenstrual age. Study subjects received open-label FOLE (1 g/kg/day) until IFALD resolved or parenteral nutrition was stopped. Historical control subjects received SOLE (up to 3 g/kg/day). Growth measures (changes in body weight, height/length, and head circumference), prealbumin, triglycerides, and glucose were compared between groups over time using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

RESULTS

Although changes in all of the growth measures were similar for both groups (P > .05), FOLE recipients demonstrated an overall improved growth trajectory. After 28 weeks, FOLE recipients had a mean body weight within a z score range of -1 to 1 indicating age-appropriate growth. FOLE recipients consistently had higher prealbumin, lower triglyceride, and more normal glucose concentrations over time compared with SOLE recipients.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with IFALD who received FOLE had similar growth and fewer metabolic abnormalities compared with those who received SOLE.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00910104 and NCT00738101.

The evolving use of intravenous lipid emulsions in the neonatal intensive care unit

Parenteral nutrition and intravenous lipid emulsions are essential for promoting optimal nutrition in the neonatal intensive care unit. However, long-term use of a pure soybean lipid emulsion is associated with a liver disease known as intestinal failure associated liver disease. Over the past several years, the science of lipid emulsions has evolved with a focus on nutritional optimization and disease prevention. This review's purpose is to provide a general overview of the three main components of lipid emulsions, phytosterols, the antioxidant Vitamin E, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and their contribution to health.

Use of Fish Oil Intravenous Lipid Emulsions as Monotherapy in the Pediatric Intestinal Failure Patient: Beyond the Package Insert

In July 2018, an intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) composed of 100% fish oil (Omegaven, Fresenius Kabi, Bad Homburg, Germany) received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval as a source of fatty acids and calories for infants and children with parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis. This soy-free fat source is rich in ω-3 fatty acids and α-tocopherol and contains few phytosterols. In comparison to conventional soybean oil ILE, this emulsion appears to be less hepatotoxic. The purpose of this paper is to guide the practitioner on the use of this alternative fat source in clinical practice and augment the material contained in the current package insert. This paper addresses various topics including the identification of which patients would benefit from fish oil ILE, dosing, administration, monitoring, potential adverse effects, and management strategies for fish oil ILE.

Mixed Lipid, Fish Oil, and Soybean Oil Parenteral Lipids Impact Cholestasis, Hepatic Phytosterol, and Lipid Composition

OBJECTIVES

In parenteral nutrition-dependent infants and children, intestinal failure (IF)-associated liver disease (IFALD) remains an important problem. A comparative study was undertaken of parenteral mixed lipid (ML), ω-3 predominant fish oil (FO), and ω-6 predominant soybean oil (SO) emulsions in regards to hepatic phytosterol, neutral lipid, fatty acid (FA) content, and the relationship to cholestasis in piglets.

METHODS

Neonatal piglets received parenteral nutrition, varying in lipid dose (5 or 10 g· kg · day) and formulation: SO5 (n = 5), SO10 (n = 5), FO5 (n = 5), and ML10 (n = 5). On day 14, liver chemistry, bile flow, histology and neutral lipid staining were assessed. Hepatic triglyceride FA content was determined using thin layer and gas chromatography, and phytosterol content was assessed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

SO groups had higher prevalence of biochemical cholestasis (P < 0.04) and lower bile flow (P < 0.0001). Hepatic campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol were highest in SO10 (P < 0.0001). Hepatic FA (P < 0.03) and ω-6/ω-3 FA ratio (P < 0.0001) were higher in the SO groups. Neutral lipid accumulation (P = 0.3) and liver histology (P = 0.16) were not different between groups. Univariate predictors of bile flow were: campesterol (r = -0.77, P = 0.001), β-sitosterol (r = -0.74, P = 0.002), stigmasterol (r = -0.74, P = 0.002), ω-6 FA (r = -0.72, P = 0.002), and ω-3 FA (r = 0.59, P = 0.02). Only campesterol independently predicted bile flow.

CONCLUSIONS

ML and FO lipid emulsions reduce cholestasis in association with lowered hepatic phytosterol and lipid content. Lower hepatic phytosterol and ω-6 FA content, and higher ω-3 FA content are hepatoprotective. Multivariate analysis suggests reduced phytosterol accumulation may best explain the hepatoprotective effect of fish oil-containing lipids.

Fish oil protects the liver from parenteral nutrition-induced injury via GPR120-mediated PPARγ signaling

Intravenous fish oil lipid emulsions (FOLE) can prevent parenteral nutrition (PN)-induced liver injury in murine models and reverse PN-induced cholestasis in pediatric patients. However, the mechanisms by which fish oil protects the liver are incompletely characterized. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are ligands for the G-protein coupled receptor 120 (GPR120), expressed on hepatic Kupffer cells. This study tested the hypothesis that FOLE protects the liver from PN-induced injury through GPR120 signaling. Utilizing a previously described murine model of PN-induced liver injury in which mice develop steatosis in response to an oral parenteral nutrition diet, FOLE was able to preserve normal hepatic architecture in wild type mice, but not in congenic GPR120 knockout (gpr120-/-) mice. To further characterize the requirement of intact GPR120 for FOLE-mediated hepatic protection, gene expression profiles of key regulators of fat metabolism were measured. PPARγ was identified as a gene that is up-regulated by the PN diet and normalized with the addition of FOLE in wild type, but not in gpr120-/- mice. This was confirmed at the protein expression level. A PPARγ expression array further identified CD36 and SCD1, both down-stream effectors of PPARγ, to be up-regulated in PN-fed wild type mice yet normalized upon FOLE administration in wild type but not in gpr120-/- mice. Together, these results suggest that FOLE protects the liver, in part, through activation of GPR120 and the downstream effectors PPARγ and CD36. Identification of key genetic determinants of FOLE-mediated hepatic protection may provide targets for small molecule-based hepatic protection strategies.

Fish oil-based injectable lipid emulsions containing medium-chain triglycerides or added α-tocopherol offer anti-inflammatory benefits in a murine model of parenteral nutrition-induced liver injury

BACKGROUND

Fish oil (FO) intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) are used as a monotherapy to treat parenteral nutrition (PN)-associated liver disease and provide essential fatty acids (EFAs) needed to sustain growth and prevent EFA deficiency (EFAD). Studies have suggested that medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and α-tocopherol have anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to test whether FO-ILEs containing MCTs and/or additional α-tocopherol decrease the inflammatory response to an endotoxin challenge compared with FO-ILE alone and preserve the ability to prevent PN-induced liver injury in mice.

METHODS

A murine model of PN-induced hepatosteatosis was used to compare the effects of ILEs formulated in the laboratory containing varying ratios of FO and MCTs, and subsequently FO- and 50:50 FO:MCT-ILE plus 500 mg/L α-tocopherol (FO + AT and 50:50 + AT, respectively). C57BL/6 mice receiving unpurified diet (UPD), PN-equivalent diet (PN) + saline, and PN + soybean oil (SO)-ILE served as controls. After 19 d, mice received an intraperitoneal saline or endotoxin challenge 4 h before being killed. Serum and livers were harvested for histologic analysis, fatty acid profiling, and measurement of systemic inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6).

RESULTS

All ILEs were well tolerated and prevented biochemical EFAD. Livers of mice that received saline and SO developed steatosis. Mice that received 30:70 FO:MCT developed mild hepatosteatosis. All other FO-containing ILEs preserved normal hepatic architecture. Mice that received FO- or SO-ILE had significantly elevated systemic inflammatory markers after endotoxin challenge compared with UPD-fed controls, whereas 50:50 FO:MCT, 30:70 FO:MCT, FO + AT, and 50:50 + AT groups had significantly lower inflammatory markers similar to those seen in UPD-fed controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Mixed FO/MCT and the addition of α-tocopherol to FO improved the inflammatory response to endotoxin challenge compared with FO-ILE alone while still preventing PN-induced liver injury and EFAD in mice. There was no synergistic relation between α-tocopherol and MCTs.

A Diet With Docosahexaenoic and Arachidonic Acids as the Sole Source of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Is Sufficient to Support Visual, Cognitive, Motor, and Social Development in Mice

Polyunsaturated fatty acids serve multiple functions in neurodevelopment and neurocognitive function. Intravenous lipid emulsions are administered to children that are dependent on parenteral nutrition to provide the essential fatty acids needed to sustain growth and development. One of these emulsions, derived from fish-oil, is particularly poor in the traditional essential fatty acids, linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids. However, it does contain adequate amounts of its main derivatives, arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), respectively. This skewed composition has raised concern about the sole use of fish-oil based lipid emulsions in children and how its administration can be detrimental to their neurodevelopment. Using a custom-made diet that contains ARA and DHA as a sole source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, we bred and fed mice for multiple generations. Compared to adult, chow-fed mice, animals maintained on this special diet showed similar outcomes in a battery of neurocognitive tests performed under controlled conditions. Chow-fed mice did perform better in the rotarod test for ataxia and balance, although both experimental groups showed a conserved motor learning capacity. Conversely, mice fed the custom diet rich in DHA and ARA showed less neophobia than the chow-fed animals. Results from these experiments suggest that providing a diet where ARA and DHA are the sole source of polyunsaturated fatty acids is sufficient to support gross visual, cognitive, motor, and social development in mice.

ESPEN guideline on clinical nutrition in liver disease

This update of evidence-based guidelines (GL) aims to translate current evidence and expert opinion into recommendations for multidisciplinary teams responsible for the optimal nutritional and metabolic management of adult patients with liver disease. The GL was commissioned and financially supported by ESPEN. Members of the guideline group were selected by ESPEN. We searched for meta-analyses, systematic reviews and single clinical trials based on clinical questions according to the PICO format. The evidence was evaluated and used to develop clinical recommendations implementing the SIGN method. A total of 85 recommendations were made for the nutritional and metabolic management of patients with acute liver failure, severe alcoholic steatohepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, liver surgery and transplantation as well as nutrition associated liver injury distinct from fatty liver disease. The recommendations are preceded by statements covering current knowledge of the underlying pathophysiology and pathobiochemistry as well as pertinent methods for the assessment of nutritional status and body composition.

Long-Term Outcomes in Children With Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease Treated With 6 Months of Intravenous Fish Oil Followed by Resumption of Intravenous Soybean Oil

BACKGROUND

Intravenous soybean oil (SO) is a commonly used lipid emulsion for children with intestinal failure (IF); however, it is associated with IF-associated liver disease (IFALD). Studies have demonstrated that intravenous fish oil (FO) is an effective treatment for IFALD. However, there is a lack of long-term data on children who stop FO and resume SO. This study's objective was to investigate our institution's outcomes for children with IFALD treated with 6 months of FO and who then restarted SO.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria for FO included children with IFALD. Parenteral nutrition (PN)-dependent children resumed SO after FO and were prospectively followed for 4.5 years or until death, transplant, or PN discontinuation. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence rate (CIR) for cholestasis after FO.

RESULTS

Forty-eight subjects received FO, and conjugated bilirubin decreased over time (-0.22 mg/dL/week; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.25, -0.19; P < .001). The CIR for cholestasis resolution after 6 months of FO was 71% (95% CI: 54%, 82%). Twenty-seven subjects resumed SO and were followed for a median of 16 months (range 3-51 months). While the CIR for enteral autonomy after 3 years of follow-up was 40% (95% CI: 17%, 26%), the CIR for cholestasis and transplant was 26% (95% CI: 8%, 47%) and 6% (95% CI: 0.3%, 25%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this study, FO effectively treated cholestasis, and SO resumption was associated with cholestasis redevelopment in nearly one-fourth of subjects. Long-term FO may be warranted to prevent end-stage liver disease.

Fish oil-based lipid emulsion in the treatment of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis

Background

Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) is a serious complication in preterm infants receiving prolonged parenteral nutrition. Soybean lipid emulsion (SLE) seems to have a role in its pathogenesis, whereas fish oil-based emulsion (FOLE) seems to be able to reverse cholestasis. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a FOLE in reversing PNAC.

Methods

The effectiveness in reversing PNAC was evaluated in prospective cohort study of very preterm infants when compared to historical controls: twenty-six infants (27.0 ± 2.6 weeks GA; 724 ± 204 g) who developed cholestasis while receiving SLE were shifted to receive FOLE and were compared with 30 infants (27.3 ± 2.5 weeks GA¸ 838 ± 277 g) who continued to receive SLE at diagnosis of cholestasis.

Results

Time to reversal of cholestasis was the same in the two study groups (45 ± 21 vs 43 ± 32 days).

Conclusions

FOLE does not seem to be superior to SLE in reversing cholestasis. Considering that definitive data on the actual efficacy of FOLE to reverse PNAC are lacking, larger randomized trials are required, mainly to asses if FOLE may have a role in PNAC prevention rather than PNAC treatment.

Autophagy May Protect Against Parenteral Nutrition-Associated Liver Disease by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to address the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of parenteral nutrition (PN)-associated liver disease (PNALD) and its possible mechanism in vivo.

METHODS

Five-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were fed Shoobree chow (Xietong Organism, Jiangsu, China) and administered intravenous 0.9% saline (sham group), PN (PN group), PN plus rapamycin (1 mg/kg; PN + Rapa group), or rapamycin (Rapa group) for 7 days. Before and after study, body weight, biochemical indicators, hepatic histology, level of autophagy, hepatocyte apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress indicators including binding immunoglobulin protein (BIP), spliced X-box-binding protein-1 (sXBP1), and CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) were measured.

RESULTS

Autophagy was suppressed in the PNALD model, which was demonstrated by less light chain 3 fluorescence (LC3) puncta and lower LC3II expression. Rapamycin effectively induced hepatic autophagy in PN rats. The PN + Rapa group presented improved hepatic function, decreased pathology scores, and less steatosis than the PN group. In addition, rapamycin treatment decreased terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling and cleaved-caspase 3 expression, indicating a lower level of hepatocyte apoptosis. Compared with the PN group, the PN + Rapa group had lower levels of ROS and reduced expression of ER stress-related protein markers, such as BIP, sXBP1 and CHOP.

CONCLUSIONS

Autophagy was suppressed in the PNALD model. Rapamycin treatment induced autophagy and protected against PNALD, possibly by suppressing ROS-induced ER stress.

Favorable Outcomes of Preterm Infants With Parenteral Nutrition-associated Liver Disease Treated With Intravenous Fish Oil-based Lipid Emulsion

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to determine the acute and long-term outcomes of preterm infants treated with an intravenous fish oil-based lipid emulsion (FishLE) for parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD).

METHODS

Preterm infants 14 days to 24 months of age with anatomic short gut or severe intestinal dysmotility, serum direct bilirubin ≥4 mg/dL, and requiring >60% calories from parenteral nutrition were eligible. Enrolled infants received 1 g · kg · day of FishLE until resolution of direct hyperbilirubinemia or return of enteral nutrition. Acute clinical effects and biochemical markers of liver function were monitored. Growth and developmental scores at 6 and 12 months postmenstrual age (PMA) were assessed and compared with controls matched by gestational age (GA).

RESULTS

Thirteen patients with mean GA of 28 ± 4 weeks were treated and compared with 119 GA-matched controls. Their mean direct bilirubin was 9.8 ± 6.4 mg/dL at enrollment. All infants had resolution of cholestasis after study completion. There were no acute adverse events, deaths, or liver/intestinal transplants. Weight and head circumference were similar between FishLE-treated patients and controls at 6- and 12-month PMA. Cognitive and motor scores were decreased at 6 and 12 months PMA in FishLE-treated infants. Logistic regression analysis showed that prolonged hospitalization was detrimental to cognitive and motor development, whereas treatment was not.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of intravenous FishLEs in premature infants appears to be safe and reverses PNALD despite significant liver disease and intestinal failure. This therapy should be used in preterm infants with PNALD and followed long term to evaluate development.

Redefining short bowel syndrome in the 21st century

In 1968, Wilmore and Dudrick reported an infant sustained by parenteral nutrition (PN) providing a potential for survival for children with significant intestinal resections. Increasing usage of TPN over time led to some patients developing Intestinal Failure Associated Liver Disease (IFALD), a leading cause of death and indication for liver/intestinal transplant. Over time, multidisciplinary teams called Intestinal Rehabilitation Programs (IRPs) began providing meticulous and innovative management. Usage of alternative lipid emulsions and lipid minimization strategies have resulted in the decline of IFALD and an increase in long-term and transplant-free survival, even in the setting of ultrashort bowel (< 20 cm). Autologous bowel reconstructive surgeries, such as the serial tapering enteroplasty procedure, have increased the likelihood of achieving enteral autonomy. Since 2007, the number of pediatric intestinal transplants performed has sharply declined and likely attributed to the newer innovations healthcare. Recent data support the need for changes in the listing criteria for intestinal transplantation given the overall improvement in outcomes. Over the last 50 y, the diagnosis of short bowel syndrome has changed from a death sentence to one of hope with a vast improvement of quality of life and survival.

When Is Parenteral Nutrition Appropriate?

Parenteral nutrition (PN) represents one of the most notable achievements of modern medicine, serving as a therapeutic modality for all age groups across the healthcare continuum. PN offers a life-sustaining option when intestinal failure prevents adequate oral or enteral nutrition. However, providing nutrients by vein is an expensive form of nutrition support, and serious adverse events can occur. In an effort to provide clinical guidance regarding PN therapy, the Board of Directors of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) convened a task force to develop consensus recommendations regarding appropriate PN use. The recommendations contained in this document aim to delineate appropriate PN use and promote clinical benefits while minimizing the risks associated with the therapy. These consensus recommendations build on previous ASPEN clinical guidelines and consensus recommendations for PN safety. They are intended to guide evidence-based decisions regarding appropriate PN use for organizations and individual professionals, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and other clinicians involved in providing PN. They not only support decisions related to initiating and managing PN but also serve as a guide for developing quality monitoring tools for PN and for identifying areas for further research. Finally, the recommendations contained within the document are also designed to inform decisions made by additional stakeholders, such as policy makers and third-party payers, by providing current perspectives regarding the use of PN in a variety of healthcare settings.

Emerging Clinical Benefits of New-Generation Fat Emulsions in Preterm Neonates

Soybean oil-based intravenous fat emulsions (IVFEs) have been the predominant parenteral nutrition IVFE used in the United States for neonates over the past 45 years. Even though this emulsion has proven useful in supplying infants with energy for growth and essential fatty acids, there have been concerns over its composition in the development of several morbidities, ranging from sepsis to liver disease, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and impaired neurodevelopment and growth. The exact mechanisms that drive these morbidities in preterm infants are multifactorial, but potential contributors include high ω-6 (n-6) fatty acid composition, low docosahexaenoic acid and antioxidant supplementation, and the presence of potentially harmful nonnutritive components (eg, phytosterols). To address these issues, new-generation IVFEs with various types and amounts of fat have been developed containing greater amounts of the medium-chain fatty acids, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid, lower concentrations of ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, supplemental vitamin E, and low or negligible amounts of phytosterols. This review examines the clinical outcomes associated with different morbidities of parenteral nutrition in neonates who have received either soybean oil-based or new-generation IVFEs and addresses whether the proposed benefits of new-generation IVFEs have improved outcomes in the neonatal population.

Predictors of failure of fish-oil therapy for intestinal failure-associated liver disease in children

BACKGROUND

Parenteral fish-oil (FO) therapy is a safe and effective treatment for intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD). Patients whose cholestasis does not resolve with FO may progress to end-stage liver disease.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to identify factors associated with the failure of FO therapy in treating IFALD to guide prognostication and referral guidelines.

DESIGN

Prospectively collected data for patients treated with FO at Boston Children's Hospital from 2004 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Resolution of cholestasis was defined as sustained direct bilirubin (DB) <2 mg/dL, and treatment failure as liver transplantation or death while DB was >2 mg/dL as of July 2015. Demographics, laboratory values, and medical history at FO therapy initiation were compared between patients who achieved resolution of cholestasis and those who failed therapy.

RESULTS

Among 182 patients treated with FO, 86% achieved resolution of cholestasis and 14% failed therapy. Patients who failed therapy had median (IQR) lower birth weight [1020 g (737, 1776 g) compared with 1608 g (815, 2438 g); P = 0.03] and were older at FO initiation [20.4 wk (9.9, 38.6 wk) compared with 11.7 wk (7.3, 21.4 wk); P = 0.02] than patients whose cholestasis resolved. Patients who failed therapy had more advanced liver disease at therapy initiation than patients whose cholestasis resolved, as evidenced by lower median (IQR) γ-glutamyltransferase [54 U/L (41, 103 U/L) compared with 112 U/L (76, 168 U/L); P < 0.001], higher DB [10.4 mg/dL (7.5, 14.1 mg/dL) compared with 4.4 mg/dL (3.1, 6.6 mg/dL); P < 0.001], and a higher pediatric end-stage liver disease (PELD) score [22 (14, 25) compared with 12 (7, 15); P < 0.001]. A PELD score of ≥15, history of gastrointestinal bleeding, age at FO initiation ≥16 wk, presence of nongastrointestinal comorbidities, and mechanical ventilation at FO initiation were independent predictors of treatment failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Most infants with IFALD responded to FO therapy with resolution of cholestasis, and liver transplantation was rarely required. Early FO initiation once biochemical cholestasis is detected in parenteral nutrition-dependent patients is recommended. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00910104.

A Product Review of Alternative Oil-Based Intravenous Fat Emulsions

Soybean oil-based intravenous fat emulsions have long been used as the primary product for delivery of lipid-based calories in parenteral nutrition formulations in the United States. Proinflammatory properties of these products may be related with poor clinical outcomes and have led investigators to develop newer generations of intravenous fat emulsions. These alternative formulations are derivatives of medium-chain triglycerides, olive oil, and fish oil in hopes to reduce the inflammatory response and potentially produce a clinically beneficial anti-inflammatory response. Although surrogate markers support this reduction in inflammatory response, clinical data and outcomes are still limited but potentially promising in the literature. This product review provides a general overview of the alternative-generation intravenous fat emulsion products and the literature supporting the potential transition to such products.

ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition Position Paper. Intravenous Lipid Emulsions and Risk of Hepatotoxicity in Infants and Children: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The aim of the present article was to perform a systematic review with meta-analysis of available scientific evidence regarding the role of different intravenous lipid emulsions (ILE) in the pathogenesis of cholestasis and parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease. A systematic review of the literature (up to March 2015) identified 23 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of these, 17 were performed in preterm infants or critically ill neonates with a short duration of intervention, 2 in older children with short-term use (following surgery or bone marrow transplantation), 1 in neonates with long-term use, and 3 in infants and children receiving long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). Meta-analysis showed no differences in the rate of cholestasis or bilirubin levels associated with short-term use of different ILEs. Because of high heterogeneity of the long-term studies no meta-analysis could be performed. Available studies found that the use of multicomponent fish oil (FO)-containing ILE compared with pure soya bean oil (SO), ILE-reduced liver enzymes, and bilirubin levels in noncholestatic children on long-term PN and one other RCT found that FO-based ILE-reversed cholestasis in a proportion of patients. The ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition concludes that there is no evidence of a difference in rates of cholestasis or bilirubin levels between different ILE for short-term use in neonates. The use of multicomponent FO-containing ILE may contribute to a decrease in total bilirubin levels in children with IF on prolonged PN. Well-designed RCTs are, however, lacking and long-term effects have not been determined.

Lipid emulsions in the treatment and prevention of parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease in infants and children

Long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) carries the risk of progressive liver disease in infants with intestinal failure. Although PN-associated liver disease (PNALD) is multifactorial in etiology, components of soybean oil lipid emulsions have been implicated in the disease's pathogenesis. Historically, infants with PNALD who were unable to wean from PN to full enteral feeding developed cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease, which require liver transplantation to survive. Over the past 2 decades, novel strategies for the management of parenteral lipids have improved morbidity and mortality from PNALD in infants with intestinal failure. Current strategies for the treatment of PNALD include restricting the dose of parenteral soybean oil lipid emulsion and/or replacing the soybean oil with a parenteral fish-oil lipid emulsion or emulsions of mixed-lipid sources. The purpose of this report is to review published data that evaluate these strategies in parenteral lipid management for the treatment and prevention of PNALD.

Differential Impacts of Soybean and Fish Oils on Hepatocyte Lipid Droplet Accumulation and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Primary Rabbit Hepatocytes

Parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD) is a severe ailment associated with long-term parenteral nutrition. Soybean oil-based lipid emulsions (SOLE) are thought to promote PNALD development, whereas fish oil-based lipid emulsions (FOLE) are thought to protect against PNALD. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SOLE and FOLE on primary rabbit hepatocytes. The results reveal that SOLE caused significant endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrial damage, ultimately resulting in lipid droplets accumulation and ER stress. While these deleterious events induce hepatocyte injury, FOLE at high doses cause only minor ER and mitochondrial damage, which has no effect on hepatic function. SOLE also significantly upregulated glucose-regulated protein 94 mRNA and protein expression. These data indicate that SOLE, but not FOLE, damage the ER and mitochondria, resulting in lipid droplets accumulation and ER stress and, finally, hepatocyte injury. This likely contributes to the differential impacts of SOLE and FOLE on PNALD development and progression.

Fish oils in parenteral nutrition: Why could these be important for gastrointestinal oncology?

By the time a gastroenterology patient is moved to parenteral nutrition, he or she is usually in poor health. All parenteral nutrition formulae contain essential nutrients, avoiding components that could cause an adverse reaction. The lipid component is often provided by a soy extract, containing all the fatty acids considered to be essential in the diet. Several trials have considered parenteral nutrition formulas with added fish oils, high in the long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Given the range of biological functions associated with such compounds, especially in reducing inflammatory symptoms, this move would appear rational. However, while data from such trials are often positive, there has been variability among results. Some of this variability could be caused by environmental contaminants in the fish, and/or oxidation of the lipids because of poor storage. The situation is complicated by a recent report that fish oils may counter the effects of platinum chemotherapy. However, this effect associated with a minor component, hexadeca-4,7,10,13-tetraenoic acid. It is suggested that pure DHA and EPA would be beneficial additions to parenteral nutrition, reducing the probability of carcinogenesis and enhancing rational disease management. However, the jury is still out on fish oils more generally.

Intravenous Lipid Emulsions in Parenteral Nutrition

Fat is an important macronutrient in the human diet. For patients with intestinal failure who are unable to absorb nutrients via the enteral route, intravenous lipid emulsions play a critical role in providing an energy-dense source of calories and supplying the essential fatty acids that cannot be endogenously synthesized. Over the last 50 y, lipid emulsions have been an important component of parenteral nutrition (PN), and over the last 10-15 y many new lipid emulsions have been manufactured with the goal of improving safety and efficacy profiles and achieving physiologically optimal formulations. The purpose of this review is to provide a background on the components of lipid emulsions, their role in PN, and to discuss the lipid emulsions available for intravenous use. Finally, the role of parenteral fat emulsions in the pathogenesis and management of PN-associated liver disease in PN-dependent pediatric patients is reviewed.

Vitamin E in New-Generation Lipid Emulsions Protects Against Parenteral Nutrition-Associated Liver Disease in Parenteral Nutrition-Fed Preterm Pigs

INTRODUCTION

Parenteral nutrition (PN) in preterm infants leads to PN-associated liver disease (PNALD). PNALD has been linked to serum accumulation of phytosterols that are abundant in plant oil but absent in fish oil emulsions.

HYPOTHESIS

Whether modifying the phytosterol and vitamin E composition of soy and fish oil lipid emulsions affects development of PNALD in preterm pigs.

METHODS

We measured markers of PNALD in preterm pigs that received 14 days of PN that included 1 of the following: (1) Intralipid (IL, 100% soybean oil), (2) Intralipid + vitamin E (ILE, d-α-tocopherol), (3) Omegaven (OV, 100% fish oil), or (4) Omegaven + phytosterols (PS, β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol).

RESULTS

Serum levels of direct bilirubin, gamma glutamyl transferase, serum triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and hepatic triglyceride content were significantly lower (P < .05) in the ILE, OV, and PS compared to IL. Hepatic cholesterol 7-hydroxylase and organic solute transporter-α expression was lower (P < .05) and portal plasma FGF19 higher in the ILE, OV, and PS vs IL. Hepatic expression of mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A and microsomal cytochrome P450 2E1 fatty acid oxidation genes was higher in ILE, OV, and PS vs IL. In vivo (13)C-CDCA clearance and expression of pregnane X receptor target genes, cytochrome P450 3A29 and multidrug resistance-associated protein 2, were higher in ILE, OV, and PS vs IL.

CONCLUSIONS

α-tocopherol in Omegaven and added to Intralipid prevented serum and liver increases in biliary and lipidemic markers of PNALD in preterm piglets. The addition of phytosterols to Omegaven did not produce evidence of PNALD.