DHA and EPA Down-regulate COX-2 Expression through Suppression of NF-kappaB Activity in LPS-treated Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

[Omega-3 and preterm birth: Deciphering the pieces of the puzzle for its prevention]

Introduction

Cold-pressed perilla seed oil: Investigating its protective influence on the gut-brain axis in mice with rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease

Perilla seed oil, derived from a regional plant native to northern Thailand, undergoes cold-pressing to analyze its bioactive components, notably alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA, constituting approximately 61% of the oil, serves as a precursor for therapeutic omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, with neurodegenerative disease benefits and anti-inflammatory responses. This study administered different concentrations of perilla seed oil to male C57BL/6 mice, categorized as low dose (LP 5% w/w), middle dose (MP 10% w/w), and high dose (HP 20% w/w), along with a fish oil (FP 10% w/w) diet. An experimental group received soybean oil (5% w/w). Over 42 days, these diets were administered while inducing Parkinson's disease (PD) with rotenone injections. Mice on a high perilla seed oil dose exhibited decreased Cox-2 expression in the colon, suppressed Iba-1 microglia activation, reduced alpha-synuclein accumulation in the colon and hippocampus, prevented dopaminergic cell death in the substantia nigra, and improved motor and non-motor symptoms. Mice on a middle dose showed maintenance of diverse gut microbiota, with an increased abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria (Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus, and Faecalibacteria). A reduction in bacteria correlated with PD (Turicibacter, Ruminococcus, and Akkermansia) was observed. Results suggest the potential therapeutic efficacy of high perilla seed oil doses in mitigating both intestinal and neurological aspects linked to the gut-brain axis in PD.

Omega-3 fatty acid supply in pregnancy for risk reduction of preterm and early preterm birth: A position statement by the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG)

Pre-term birth is associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Pre-term births are associated with significant health and neuro-developmental risks in childhood and adulthood. Women with multiple pregnancies are at much higher risks. Low levels of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are associated with higher risk of pre-term labour and increased consumption of foods rich in omega-3 PUFA or supplements are associated with a 11 % and 42 % risk reduction of early and late preterm births, respectively.

Omega-3 fatty acid supply in pregnancy for risk reduction of preterm and early preterm birth

This clinical practice guideline on the supply of the omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in pregnant women for risk reduction of preterm birth and early preterm birth was developed with support from several medical-scientific organizations, and is based on a review of the available strong evidence from randomized clinical trials and a formal consensus process. We concluded the following. Women of childbearing age should obtain a supply of at least 250 mg/d of docosahexaenoic+eicosapentaenoic acid from diet or supplements, and in pregnancy an additional intake of ≥100 to 200 mg/d of docosahexaenoic acid. Pregnant women with a low docosahexaenoic acid intake and/or low docosahexaenoic acid blood levels have an increased risk of preterm birth and early preterm birth. Thus, they should receive a supply of approximately 600 to 1000 mg/d of docosahexaenoic+eicosapentaenoic acid, or docosahexaenoic acid alone, given that this dosage showed significant reduction of preterm birth and early preterm birth in randomized controlled trials. This additional supply should preferably begin in the second trimester of pregnancy (not later than approximately 20 weeks' gestation) and continue until approximately 37 weeks' gestation or until childbirth if before 37 weeks' gestation. Identification of women with inadequate omega-3 supply is achievable by a set of standardized questions on intake. Docosahexaenoic acid measurement from blood is another option to identify women with low status, but further standardization of laboratory methods and appropriate cutoff values is needed. Information on how to achieve an appropriate intake of docosahexaenoic acid or docosahexaenoic+eicosapentaenoic acid for women of childbearing age and pregnant women should be provided to women and their partners.

The role of nutrition in canine idiopathic epilepsy management: Fact or fiction?

In the last decade, nutrition has gained interest in the management of canine idiopathic epilepsy (IE) based on growing scientific evidence. Diets can serve their functions through many pathways. One potential pathway includes the microbiota-gut-brain axis, which highlights the relationship between the brain and the intestines. Changing the brain's energy source and a number of dietary sourced anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective factors appears to be the basis for improved outcomes in IE. Selecting a diet with anti-seizure effects and avoiding risks of proconvulsant mediators as well as interference with anti-seizure drugs should all be considered in canine IE. This literature review provides information about preclinical and clinical evidence, including a systematic evaluation of the level of evidence, suggested mechanism of action and interaction with anti-seizure drugs as well as pros and cons of each potential dietary adaptation in canine IE.

Efficacy of the omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers: An umbrella meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Existing meta-analyses on omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their anti-inflammatory effects have reported uncertain findings. The current umbrella meta-analysis aimed to assess the findings of multiple meta-analyses on the efficacy of n-3 PUFAs on inflammatory biomarkers in adults with different health conditions.

METHODS

Using suitable keywords, articles published until December 2021 were searched in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Meta-analyses investigating the impact of supplementation of n-3 PUFAs on inflammatory biomarkers in adults were included. We performed this meta-analysis using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Overall, 32 meta-analyses were qualified in this umbrella meta-analysis. Our findings demonstrated that the n-3 PUFA supplementation significantly reduced serum C-reactive protein (CRP) (ES = -0.40; 95 % CI: -0.56, -0.24, p < 0.001; I² = 89.5 %, p < 0.001), Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) (ES = -0.23; 95 % CI: -0.37, -0.08, p = 0.002; I² = 60.1 %, p < 0.001), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations (ES = -0.22; 95 % CI: -0.39, -0.05, p = 0.010; I² = 66.2 %, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The current umbrella meta-analysis found that supplementation of n-3 PUFAs in adults can improve CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations under various health conditions. n-3 PUFAs can be recommended as adjuvant anti-inflammatory agents.

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveals dysregulation of monounsaturated fatty acid metabolism upon SPINK1 attenuation in colorectal cancer

Metabolic reprogramming, a key hallmark of cancer, plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the accelerated biological demands of tumor cells. Such metabolic changes trigger the production of several proinflammatory factors, thereby inciting cancer development and its progression. Serine protease inhibitor Kazal Type 1 (SPINK1), well known for its oncogenic role and its upregulation via acute-phase reactions, is highly expressed in multiple cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we show accumulation of lipid droplets in CRC cells stained with Oil Red O upon SPINK1 silencing. Furthermore, NMR spectroscopy analysis revealed an accretion of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and phosphatidylcholine in these CRC cells, while the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids remained unaltered. This alteration indicates the presence of MUFAs with the triglycerides in the lipid droplets as observed in SPINK1-silenced CRC cells. Considering the role of MUFAs in the anti-inflammatory response, our data hint that suppression of SPINK1 in CRC leads to activation of an anti-inflammatory signaling milieu. Conclusively, our study uncovers a connection between lipid metabolism and SPINK1-mediated CRC progression, hence paving the way for further exploration and better prognosis of SPINK1-positive CRC patients.

A Dichotomous Role for FABP7 in Sleep and Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis: A Hypothesis

Fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) are a family of intracellular lipid chaperone proteins known to play critical roles in the regulation of fatty acid uptake and transport as well as gene expression. Brain-type fatty acid binding protein (FABP7) is enriched in astrocytes and has been implicated in sleep/wake regulation and neurodegenerative diseases; however, the precise mechanisms underlying the role of FABP7 in these biological processes remain unclear. FABP7 binds to both arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), resulting in discrete physiological responses. Here, we propose a dichotomous role for FABP7 in which ligand type determines the subcellular translocation of fatty acids, either promoting wakefulness aligned with Alzheimer's pathogenesis or promoting sleep with concomitant activation of anti-inflammatory pathways and neuroprotection. We hypothesize that FABP7-mediated translocation of AA to the endoplasmic reticulum of astrocytes increases astrogliosis, impedes glutamatergic uptake, and enhances wakefulness and inflammatory pathways via COX-2 dependent generation of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Conversely, we propose that FABP7-mediated translocation of DHA to the nucleus stabilizes astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle dynamics, preserves glutamatergic uptake, and promotes sleep by activating anti-inflammatory pathways through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ transcriptional cascade. Importantly, this model generates several testable hypotheses applicable to other neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

Methylene-bridge tryptophan fatty acylation regulates PI3K-AKT signaling and glucose uptake

Protein fatty acylation regulates numerous cell signaling pathways. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) exert a plethora of physiological effects, including cell signaling regulation, with underlying mechanisms to be fully understood. Herein, we report that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) regulate PI3K-AKT signaling by modifying PDK1 and AKT2. DHA-administered mice exhibit altered phosphorylation of proteins in signaling pathways. Methylene bridge-containing DHA/EPA acylate δ1 carbon of tryptophan 448/543 in PDK1 and tryptophan 414 in AKT2 via free radical pathway, recruit both the proteins to the cytoplasmic membrane, and activate PI3K signaling and glucose uptake in a tryptophan acylation-dependent but insulin-independent manner in cultured cells and in mice. DHA/EPA deplete cytosolic PDK1 and AKT2 and induce insulin resistance. Akt2 knockout in mice abrogates DHA/EPA-induced PI3K-AKT signaling. Our results identify PUFA's methylene bridge tryptophan acylation, a protein fatty acylation that regulates cell signaling and may underlie multifaceted effects of methylene-bridge-containing PUFAs.

Biological action of docosahexaenoic acid in a 3D tissue-engineered psoriatic skin model: Focus on the PPAR signaling pathway

N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), and in particular docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have many beneficial metabolic effects, including reducing epidermal thickness in patients with psoriasis. The positive impacts of DHA in psoriasis could be mediated by its interactions with the PPAR signaling pathway, as well as by its secretion of anti-inflammatory bioactive metabolites, but the detailed metabolism is still not understood. In the present study, we evaluated the influence of DHA on the main features of psoriasis and its effects on the PPAR signaling pathway, in a psoriatic in vitro skin model. Healthy and psoriatic skin substitutes were produced according to the tissue-engineered self-assembly method, using culture media supplemented with 10 μM of DHA. The presence of DHA led to a reduction in the abnormal cell differentiation of psoriatic keratinocytes, seen in the increased expression of filaggrin and keratin 10. DHA was incorporated into the membrane phospholipids of the epidermis and transformed principally into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Furthermore, the addition of DHA into the culture medium led to a decrease in the levels of lipid mediators derived from n-6 PUFAs, mainly prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE). Finally, DHA supplementation rebalanced the expression of PPAR receptors and caused a decrease in the secretion of TNF-α. Altogether, our results show that DHA possesses the ability to attenuate the psoriatic characteristics of psoriatic skin substitutes, mostly by restoring epidermal cell differentiation and proliferation, as well as by reducing inflammation.

Prostaglandin E2 Receptor 4 (EP4) as a Therapeutic Target to Impede Breast Cancer-Associated Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis

The formation of new blood (angiogenesis) and lymphatic (lymphangiogenesis) vessels are major events associated with most epithelial malignancies, including breast cancer. Angiogenesis is essential for cancer cell survival. Lymphangiogenesis is critical in maintaining tumoral interstitial fluid balance and importing tumor-facilitatory immune cells. Both vascular routes also serve as conduits for cancer metastasis. Intratumoral hypoxia promotes both events by stimulating multiple angiogenic/lymphangiogenic growth factors. Studies on tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis and its exploitation for therapy have received less attention from the research community than those on angiogenesis. Inflammation is a key mediator of both processes, hijacked by many cancers by the aberrant expression of the inflammation-associated enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2. In this review, we focus on breast cancer and showed that COX-2 is a major promoter of both events, primarily resulting from the activation of prostaglandin (PG) E receptor EP4 on tumor cells, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and endothelial cells; and the induction of oncogenic microRNAs. The COX-2/EP4 pathway also promotes additional events in breast cancer progression, such as cancer cell migration, invasion, and the stimulation of stem-like cells. Based on a combination of studies using multiple breast cancer models, we show that EP4 antagonists hold a major promise in breast cancer therapy in combination with other modalities including immune check-point inhibitors.

Immunonutritional support as an important part of multidisciplinary anti-cancer therapy

Immunonutrition is one of the most important parts of nutritional treatment in patients with cancer. There are studies which confirm positive effects of using immunonutrition (arginine, glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids, nucleotides, pre- and probiotics) among others on the reduction of the pro-inflammatory cytokines concentrations, shortening of the hospital stay and improvement of the nutritional status. Arginine takes part not only in wound healing process, but also it improves body’s immunity and reduces the incidence of infections. Glutamine reduces the incidence of acute grade 2 and 3 esophagitis and improves quality of life of gastric cancer patients. Omega 3-fatty acids have the ability to inhibit the activity of NF-κB. They also reduce the symptoms of graft-versus-host disease in patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation. Nucleotides support the regeneration of intestinal villi. Probiotics play many roles, mainly inhibit the process of carcinogenesis, reduce the incidence of diarrhea and modify intestinal microbiome. However, there are studies indicating the lack of advantages of using immunonutrition compared to standard nutrition. Currently, there is no clear evidence for the use of formulae enriched with immunonutrients versus standard oral nutritional supplements exclusively in the preoperative period. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the role of immunonutrition in supporting treatment of cancer diseases.

Effect of High-Dose Omega-3 Fatty Acids vs Corn Oil on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk: The STRENGTH Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

It remains uncertain whether the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) reduce cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects on cardiovascular outcomes of a carboxylic acid formulation of EPA and DHA (omega-3 CA) with documented favorable effects on lipid and inflammatory markers in patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia and high cardiovascular risk.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-blind, randomized, multicenter trial (enrollment October 30, 2014, to June 14, 2017; study termination January 8, 2020; last patient visit May 14, 2020) comparing omega-3 CA with corn oil in statin-treated participants with high cardiovascular risk, hypertriglyceridemia, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). A total of 13 078 patients were randomized at 675 academic and community hospitals in 22 countries in North America, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to receive 4 g/d of omega-3 CA (n = 6539) or corn oil, which was intended to serve as an inert comparator (n = 6539), in addition to usual background therapies, including statins.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary efficacy measure was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina requiring hospitalization.

RESULTS

When 1384 patients had experienced a primary end point event (of a planned 1600 events), the trial was prematurely halted based on an interim analysis that indicated a low probability of clinical benefit of omega-3 CA vs the corn oil comparator. Among the 13 078 treated patients (mean [SD] age, 62.5 [9.0] years; 35% women; 70% with diabetes; median low-density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol level, 75.0 mg/dL; median triglycerides level, 240 mg/dL; median HDL-C level, 36 mg/dL; and median high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level, 2.1 mg/L), 12 633 (96.6%) completed the trial with ascertainment of primary end point status. The primary end point occurred in 785 patients (12.0%) treated with omega-3 CA vs 795 (12.2%) treated with corn oil (hazard ratio, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.90-1.09]; P = .84). A greater rate of gastrointestinal adverse events was observed in the omega-3 CA group (24.7%) compared with corn oil-treated patients (14.7%).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among statin-treated patients at high cardiovascular risk, the addition of omega-3 CA, compared with corn oil, to usual background therapies resulted in no significant difference in a composite outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events. These findings do not support use of this omega-3 fatty acid formulation to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02104817.

DGLA from the Microalga Lobosphaera Incsa P127 Modulates Inflammatory Response, Inhibits iNOS Expression and Alleviates NO Secretion in RAW264.7 Murine Macrophages

Microalgae have been considered as a renewable source of nutritional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compounds. The ability to produce health-beneficial long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) is of high interest. LC-PUFA and their metabolic lipid mediators, modulate key inflammatory pathways in numerous models. In particular, the metabolism of arachidonic acid under inflammatory challenge influences the immune reactivity of macrophages. However, less is known about another omega-6 LC-PUFA, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA), which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activities, which contrast with its delta-5 desaturase product, arachidonic acid (ARA). In this work, we examined whether administrating DGLA would modulate the inflammatory response in the RAW264.7 murine macrophage cell line. DGLA was applied for 24 h in the forms of carboxylic (free) acid, ethyl ester, and ethyl esters obtained from the DGLA-accumulating delta-5 desaturase mutant strain P127 of the green microalga Lobosphaera incisa. DGLA induced a dose-dependent increase in the RAW264.7 cells’ basal secretion of the prostaglandin PGE1. Upon bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli, the enhanced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β), was affected little by DGLA, while interleukin 6 (IL-6), nitric oxide, and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) decreased significantly. DGLA administered at 100 µM in all forms attenuated the LPS-induced expression of the key inflammatory genes in a concerted manner, in particular iNOS, IL-6, and LxR, in the form of free acid. PGE1 was the major prostaglandin detected in DGLA-supplemented culture supernatants, whose production prevailed over ARA-derived PGE2 and PGD2, which were less affected by LPS-stimulation compared with the vehicle control. An overall pattern of change indicated DGLA’s induced alleviation of the inflammatory state. Finally, our results indicate that microalgae-derived, DGLA-enriched ethyl esters (30%) exhibited similar activities to DGLA ethyl esters, strengthening the potential of this microalga as a potent source of this rare anti-inflammatory fatty acid.

n-3 PUFA and inflammation: from membrane to nucleus and from bench to bedside

Inflammation is a normal part of the immune response and should be self-limiting. Excessive or unresolved inflammation is linked to tissue damage, pathology and ill health. Prostaglandins and leukotrienes produced from the n-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid are involved in inflammation. Fatty acids may also influence inflammatory processes through mechanisms not necessarily involving lipid mediators. The n-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA possess a range of anti-inflammatory actions. Increased content of EPA and DHA in the membranes of cells involved in inflammation has effects on the physical nature of the membranes and on the formation of signalling platforms called lipid rafts. EPA and DHA interfere with arachidonic acid metabolism which yields prostaglandins and leukotrienes involved in inflammation. EPA gives rise to weak (e.g. less inflammatory) analogues and both EPA and DHA are substrates for the synthesis of specialised pro-resolving mediators. Through their effects on early signalling events in membranes and on the profile of lipid mediators produced, EPA and DHA alter both intracellular and intercellular signals. Within cells, this leads to altered patterns of gene expression and of protein production. The net result is decreased production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, proteases and enzymes. The anti-inflammatory and inflammation-resolving effects of EPA and DHA are relevant to both prevention and treatment of human diseases that have an inflammatory component. This has been widely studied in rheumatoid arthritis where there is good evidence that high doses of EPA + DHA reduce pain and other symptoms.

Docosahexaenoic acid protects motor function and increases dopamine synthesis in a rat model of Parkinson's disease via mechanisms associated with increased protein kinase activity in the striatum

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that leads to motor deficits and selective destruction of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. PD is typically treated by dopamine replacement agents; however, dopamine replacement loses effectiveness in the later stages of the disease. Here, we describe the neuroprotective effects of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the medial forebrain bundle 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of advanced-stage PD in rats. We show that daily administration of DHA protects against core symptoms of PD, including deficits in postural stability, gait integrity, and dopamine neurochemistry in motor areas of the striatum. Our results also demonstrate that DHA increases striatal dopamine synthesis via phosphorylation of the rate-limiting catecholamine synthesizing enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, in a manner dependent on the second messenger-linked protein kinases PKA and PKC. We also show that DHA specifically reverses dopamine loss in the nigrostriatal pathway, with no effect in the mesolimbic or mesocortical pathways. This suggests that DHA is unlikely to produce pharmacotherapeutic or adverse effects that depend on dopamine pathways other than the nigrostriatal pathway. To our knowledge, previous reports have not examined the effects of DHA in such an advanced-stage model, documented that the dopamine synthesizing effects of DHA in vivo are mediated through the activation of protein kinases and regulation of TH activity, or demonstrated specificity to the nigrostriatal pathway. These novel findings corroborate the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids seen in PD patients and suggest that DHA provides a novel means of protecting patients for dopamine neurodegeneration.

Cross-talk between SIM2s and NFκB regulates cyclooxygenase 2 expression in breast cancer

Background

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death for women in the USA. Thus, there is an increasing need to investigate novel prognostic markers and therapeutic methods. Inflammation raises challenges in treating and preventing the spread of breast cancer. Specifically, the nuclear factor kappa b (NFκB) pathway contributes to cancer progression by stimulating proliferation and preventing apoptosis. One target gene of this pathway is PTGS2, which encodes for cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and is upregulated in 40% of human breast carcinomas. COX-2 is an enzyme involved in the production of prostaglandins, which mediate inflammation. Here, we investigate the effect of Singleminded-2s (SIM2s), a transcriptional tumor suppressor that is implicated in inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis, in regulating NFκB signaling and COX-2.

Methods

For in vitro experiments, reporter luciferase assays were utilized in MCF7 cells to investigate promoter activity of NFκB and SIM2. Real-time PCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed in SUM159 and MCF7 cells. For in vivo experiments, MCF10DCIS.COM cells stably expressing SIM2s-FLAG or shPTGS2 were injected into SCID mice and subsequent tumors harvested for immunostaining and analysis.

Results

Our results reveal that SIM2 attenuates the activation of NFκB as measured using NFκB-luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, immunostaining of lysates from breast cancer cells overexpressing SIM2s showed reduction in various NFκB signaling proteins, as well as pAkt, whereas knockdown of SIM2 revealed increases in NFκB signaling proteins and pAkt. Additionally, we show that NFκB signaling can act in a reciprocal manner to decrease expression of SIM2s. Likewise, suppressing NFκB translocation in DCIS.COM cells increased SIM2s expression. We also found that NFκB/p65 represses SIM2 in a dose-dependent manner, and when NFκB is suppressed, the effect on the SIM2 is negated. Additionally, our ChIP analysis confirms that NFκB/p65 binds directly to SIM2 promoter site and that the NFκB sites in the SIM2 promoter are required for NFκB-mediated suppression of SIM2s. Finally, overexpression of SIM2s decreases PTGS2 in vitro, and COX-2 staining in vivo while decreasing PTGS2 and/or COX-2 activity results in re-expression of SIM2.

Conclusion

Our findings identify a novel role for SIM2s in NFκB signaling and COX-2 expression.

Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Ca2+ Signaling Pathways in Cerulein-Treated Pancreatic Acinar Cells, Determined by RNA-Sequencing Analysis

Intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis is commonly disrupted in acute pancreatitis. Sustained Ca²⁺ release from internal stores in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs), mediated by inositol triphosphate receptor (IP3R) and the ryanodine receptor (RyR), plays a key role in the initiation and propagation of acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis induced by cerulein, an analogue of cholecystokinin, causes premature activation of digestive enzymes and enhanced accumulation of cytokines and Ca²⁺ in the pancreas and, as such, it is a good model of acute pancreatitis. High concentrations of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) inhibit inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokine expression in PACs treated with cerulein. In the present study, we determined the effect of DHA on key regulators of Ca²⁺ signaling in cerulein-treated pancreatic acinar AR42 J cells. The results of RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis showed that cerulein up-regulates the expression of IP3R1 and RyR2 genes, and that pretreatment with DHA blocks these effects. The results of real-time PCR confirmed that DHA inhibits cerulein-induced IP3R1 and RyR2 gene expression, and demonstrated that DHA pre-treatment decreases the expression of the Relb gene, which encodes a component of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) transcriptional activator complex, and the c-fos gene, which encodes a component of activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcriptional activator complex. Taken together, DHA inhibits mRNA expression of IP3R1, RyR2, Relb, and c-fos, which is related to Ca²⁺ network in cerulein-stimulated PACs.

The Effect of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on the Production of Cyclooxygenase and Lipoxygenase Metabolites by Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Although the correlation between polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory metabolites is well documented, little is known about the simultaneous effect of different PUFA on the production of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase metabolites. The present research examines the association between different omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6) PUFA and the release of four cyclooxygenase and six lipoxygenase metabolites in cell medium by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). The different combinations of ω-3 and ω-6 PUFA were prepared according to a full 24 factorial design that enables studying not only the main effects but also the different interactions between fatty acids. In addition, interactions diagrams and principal component analysis were useful tools for interpreting higher order interactions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report addressing the combined effect of ω-3 and ω-6 PUFA on the signaling of prostaglandins, prostacyclins, leukotrienes and resolvins by HUVEC.

DHA-phospholipids (DHA-PL) and EPA-phospholipids (EPA-PL) prevent intestinal dysfunction induced by chronic stress

DHA-PL and EPA-PL may effectively protect mice against intestinal dysfunction under chronic stress exposure.

Cardioprotective Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Dichotomy between Experimental and Clinical Studies

The high-fat diet of North Americans has a major impact on cardiovascular disease occurrence. Notably, fatty acids have been identified as important factors that could modulate such diseases, especially myocardial infarction (MI). Experimentally, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have demonstrated positive effects on cardiovascular disorders and have also shown cardioprotection by decreasing MI size. Although many animal experiments have clearly established the benefits of omega-3 PUFA, clinical studies have not reached similar conclusions. In fact, the findings of recent clinical investigations indicate that omega-3 PUFA play only a minor role in cardiovascular health. This dichotomy between experimental and clinical studies may be due to different parameters that are not taken into account in animal experiments. We have recently observed that the high consumption of omega-6 PUFA results in significant attenuation of the beneficial effect of omega-3 PUFA on MI. We believe that part of the dichotomy between experimental and clinical research may be related to the quantity of omega-6 PUFA ingested. This review of the data indicates the importance of considering omega-6 PUFA consumption in omega-3 PUFA studies.

Chemical Profiling and Bioactivity of Body Wall Lipids from Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis

The lipids from gonads and polyhydroxynaphthoquinone pigments from body walls of sea urchins are intensively studied. However, little is known about the body wall (BW) lipids. Ethanol extract (55 °C) contained about equal amounts of saturated (SaFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) representing 60% of total fatty acids, with myristic, palmitic and eicosenoic acids as major SaFAs and MUFAs, respectively. Non-methylene-interrupted dienes (13%) were composed of eicosadienoic and docosadienoic acids. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) included two main components, n6 arachidonic and n3 eicosapentaenoic acids, even with equal concentrations (15 μg/mg) and a balanced n6/n3 PUFA ratio (0.86). The UPLC-ELSD analysis showed that a great majority of the lipids (80%) in the ethanolic extract were phosphatidylcholine (60 μg/mg) and phosphatidylethanolamine (40 μg/mg), while the proportion of neutral lipids remained lower than 20%. In addition, alkoxyglycerol derivatives-chimyl, selachyl, and batyl alcohols-were quantified. We have assumed that the mechanism of action of body wall lipids in the present study is via the inhibition of MAPK p38, COX-1, and COX-2. Our findings open the prospective to utilize this lipid fraction as a source for the development of drugs with anti-inflammatory activity.

Integrated systems biology analysis of KSHV latent infection reveals viral induction and reliance on peroxisome mediated lipid metabolism

Kaposi’s Sarcoma associated Herpesvirus (KSHV), an oncogenic, human gamma-herpesvirus, is the etiological agent of Kaposi’s Sarcoma the most common tumor of AIDS patients world-wide. KSHV is predominantly latent in the main KS tumor cell, the spindle cell, a cell of endothelial origin. KSHV modulates numerous host cell-signaling pathways to activate endothelial cells including major metabolic pathways involved in lipid metabolism. To identify the underlying cellular mechanisms of KSHV alteration of host signaling and endothelial cell activation, we identified changes in the host proteome, phosphoproteome and transcriptome landscape following KSHV infection of endothelial cells. A Steiner forest algorithm was used to integrate the global data sets and, together with transcriptome based predicted transcription factor activity, cellular networks altered by latent KSHV were predicted. Several interesting pathways were identified, including peroxisome biogenesis. To validate the predictions, we showed that KSHV latent infection increases the number of peroxisomes per cell. Additionally, proteins involved in peroxisomal lipid metabolism of very long chain fatty acids, including ABCD3 and ACOX1, are required for the survival of latently infected cells. In summary, novel cellular pathways altered during herpesvirus latency that could not be predicted by a single systems biology platform, were identified by integrated proteomics and transcriptomics data analysis and when correlated with our metabolomics data revealed that peroxisome lipid metabolism is essential for KSHV latent infection of endothelial cells.

Kaposi’s Sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) is the etiologic agent of Kaposi’s Sarcoma, the most common tumor of AIDS patients. KSHV modulates host cell signaling and metabolism to maintain a life-long latent infection. To unravel the underlying cellular mechanisms modulated by KSHV, we used multiple global systems biology platforms to identify and integrate changes in both cellular protein expression and transcription following KSHV infection of endothelial cells, the relevant cell type for KS tumors. The analysis identified several interesting pathways including peroxisome biogenesis. Peroxisomes are small cytoplasmic organelles involved in redox reactions and lipid metabolism. KSHV latent infection increases the number of peroxisomes per cell and proteins involved in peroxisomal lipid metabolism are required for the survival of latently infected cells. In summary, through integration of multiple global systems biology analyses we were able to identify novel pathways that could not be predicted by one platform alone and found that lipid metabolism in a small cytoplasmic organelle is necessary for the survival of latent infection with a herpesvirus.

The Role of Fish Oil in Inflammatory Eye Diseases

Consumption of fish oil is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases and also reduces the severity of many other inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders. The beneficial effects are attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), found in fish oils. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effects was long thought to be by modulating the production of proinflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. Recent advances in research into the novel lipid mediators (resolvins, protectins, and maresins) derived from EPA and DHA and their role in the resolution of inflammation have shed new light on the pleiotropic nature of these fatty acids. In this review, we focus on the effects of EPA and DHA from fish oil in the treatment of two common inflammatory eye diseases - dry eye disease and age-related macular degeneration. Evidence from recent studies lends support to a role of fish oil in the treatment of these two eye diseases.

Chemopreventive effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and atorvastatin in rats with bladder cancer

Bladder cancer remains a huge concern for the medical community because of its incidence and prevalence rates, as well as high percentage of recurrence and progression. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and atorvastatin proved anti-inflammatory effects through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma mechanism. However, their chemopreventive effect still remained to be examined and clarified. In this study, bladder cancer was induced in rats by the chemical carcinogen N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid: 2:3 w/w; 1200 mg/kg) and/or atorvastatin (6 mg/kg) were given orally daily to rats for eight consecutive weeks concomitantly with N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine and continued for further 4 weeks after cessation of N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine administration. The histopathological examination of rat bladder revealed the presence of tumors and the absence of apoptotic bodies in sections from N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine group, while tumors were absent and apoptotic bodies were clearly observed in sections from rat groups treated with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, atorvastatin, or both drugs. The study of the molecular mechanisms illustrated downregulation of COX-2 and P53 (mutant) genes and suppression of transforming growth factor beta-1 and the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde in serum of rats of the three treated groups. This chemopreventive effect was confirmed by and associated with lower level of bladder tumor antigen in urine. However, the combined treatment with both drugs exhibited the major protective effect and nearly corrected the dyslipidemia that has been induced by N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine. Collectively, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and atorvastatin, besides having anti-inflammatory properties, proved a chemopreventive effect against bladder cancer, which nominates them to be used as adjuvant therapy with other chemotherapeutics.

The combination of vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids has an enhanced anti-inflammatory effect on microglia

Neuroinflammation is a common phenomenon in the pathology of many brain diseases. In this paper we explore whether selected vitamins and fatty acids known to modulate inflammation exert an effect on microglia, the key cell type involved in neuroinflammation. Previously these nutrients have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory properties acting on specific inflammatory pathways. We hypothesized that combining nutrients acting on converging anti-inflammatory pathways may lead to enhanced anti-inflammatory properties as compared to the action of a single nutrient. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of combinations of nutrients based on the ability to inhibit the LPS-induced release of nitric oxide and interleukin-6 from BV-2 cells. Results show that omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D can individually reduce the LPS-induced secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines by BV-2 cells. Moreover, we show that vitamins A, D and omega-3 fatty acids (docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic) at concentrations where they individually had little effect, significantly reduced the secretion of the inflammatory mediator, nitric oxide, when they were combined. The conclusion of this study is that combining different nutrients acting on convergent anti-inflammatory pathways may result in an increased anti-inflammatory efficacy.

Key roles for GRB2-associated-binding protein 1, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, cyclooxygenase 2, prostaglandin E2 and transforming growth factor alpha in linoleic acid-induced upregulation of lung and breast cancer cell growth

The distribution of omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake in Western diets is disproportionate, containing an overabundance of the omega-6 PUFA, linoleic acid (LA; C18:2). Increased enrichment with LA has been shown to contribute to the enhancement of tumorigenesis in several cancer models. Previous work has indicated that phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) may play a key role in LA-induced tumorigenesis. However, the modes by which LA affects carcinogenesis have not been fully elucidated. In this study, a mechanism for LA-induced upregulation of cancer cell growth is defined. LA treatment enhanced cellular proliferation in BT-474 human breast ductal carcinoma and A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Enrichment of LA increased cyclooxygenase (COX) activity and led to increases in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), followed by increases in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) levels, which are all key elements involved in the enhancement of cancer cell growth. Further investigation revealed that LA supplementation in both BT-474 breast and A549 lung cancer cell lines greatly increased the association between the scaffolding protein GRB2-associated-binding protein 1 (Gab1) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), although Gab1 protein levels were significantly decreased. These LA-induced changes were associated with increases in activated Akt (pAkt), a downstream signaling component in the PI3K pathway. Treatment with inhibitors of EGFR, PI3K and Gab1-specific siRNAs reversed the upregulation of pAkt, as well as the observed increases in cell proliferation by LA in both cell lines. A549 xenograft assessment in athymic nude mice fed high levels of LA exhibited similar increases in EGFR-Gab1 association and increased levels of pAkt, while mice fed with high levels of the omega-3 PUFA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22:6), demonstrated an opposite response. The involvement of Gab1 in LA-induced tumorigenesis was further defined utilizing murine cell lines that express high levels of Gab1. Significant increases in cell proliferation were observed with the addition of increasing concentrations of LA. However, no changes in cell proliferation were detected in the murine paired cell lines expressing little or no Gab1 protein, establishing Gab1 as major target in LA-induced enhancement of tumorigenesis.

Oral administration of alkylglycerols differentially modulates high-fat diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice

Alkylglycerols (AKGs) from shark liver oil (SLO) were demonstrated to have strong potency to stimulate immune response. However, no study has been conducted on the effects of AKGs on diet-induced obesity and metabolic inflammatory disorder. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of two AKGs isoforms on obesity and insulin resistance in mice fed high-fat (HF) diet. Forty-eight C57BL/6 mice were divided into normal, HF, HF + 20 mg/kg selachyl alcohol (SA), HF + 200 mg/kg SA, HF + 20 mg/kg batyl alcohol (BA), and HF + 200 mg/kg BA groups. Body weight, fasting glucose, lipids, insulin and leptin levels, serum IL-1β, and TNF-α levels were compared among different groups. Our results showed that high-dose SA decreased body weight, serum triglyceride, cholesterol, fasting glucose level, insulin level, and serum leptin level of the HF fed mice, while high-dose BA increased fasting insulin level of the HF fed mice. Pretreatment of primary adipocytes with 10 μM SA or BA differentially modulates LPS-mediated MAPK and NF-κB signaling. Our study demonstrated that oral administration of AKGs has differential effects on HF-induced obesity and metabolic inflammatory disorder in mice.

Health benefits of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid

Marine-based fish and fish oil are the most popular and well-known sources of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), namely, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These n-3 PUFAs are known to have variety of health benefits against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) including well-established hypotriglyceridemic and anti-inflammatory effects. Also, various studies indicate promising antihypertensive, anticancer, antioxidant, antidepression, antiaging, and antiarthritis effects. Moreover, recent studies also indicate anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects of these fatty acids in metabolic disorders. Classically, n-3 PUFAs mediate some of these effects by antagonizing n-6 PUFA (arachidonic acid)-induced proinflammatory prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) formation. Another well-known mechanism by which n-3 PUFAs impart their anti-inflammatory effects is via reduction of nuclear factor-κB activation. This transcription factor is a potent inducer of proinflammatory cytokine production, including interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, both of which are decreased by EPA and DHA. Other evidence also demonstrates that n-3 PUFAs repress lipogenesis and increase resolvins and protectin generation, ultimately leading to reduced inflammation. Finally, beneficial effects of EPA and DHA in insulin resistance include their ability to increase secretion of adiponectin, an anti-inflammatory adipokine. In summary, n-3 PUFAs have multiple health benefits mediated at least in part by their anti-inflammatory actions; thus their consumption, especially from dietary sources, should be encouraged.

Cigarette Smoke Extract-induced Reduction in Migration and Contraction in Normal Human Bronchial Smooth Muscle Cells

The proliferation, migration, cytokine release, and contraction of airway smooth muscle cells are key events in the airway remodeling process that occur in lung disease such as asthma, chronic obstruction pulmonary disease, and cancer. These events can be modulated by a number of factors, including cigarette smoke extract (CSE). CSE-induced alterations in the viability, migration, and contractile abilities of normal human airway cells remain unclear. This study investigated the effect of CSE on cell viability, migration, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α secretion, and contraction in normal human bronchial smooth muscle cells (HBSMCs). Treatment of HBSMCs with 10% CSE induced cell death, and the death was accompanied by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). CSE-induced cell death was reduced by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), an ROS scavenger. In addition, CSE reduced the migration ability of HBSMCs by 75%. The combination of NAC with CSE blocked the CSE-induced reduction of cell migration. However, CSE had no effect on TNF-α secretion and NF-κB activation. CSE induced an increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration in 64% of HBSMCs. CSE reduced the contractile ability of HBSMCs, and the ability was enhanced by NAC treatment. These results demonstrate that CSE treatment induces cell death and reduces migration and contraction by increasing ROS generation in normal HBSMCs. These results suggest that CSE may induce airway change through cell death and reduction in migration and contraction of normal HBSMCs.

Docosahexaenoic acid signalolipidomics in nutrition: significance in aging, neuroinflammation, macular degeneration, Alzheimer's, and other neurodegenerative diseases

Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are critical nutritional lipids that must be obtained from the diet to sustain homeostasis. Omega-3 and -6 PUFAs are key components of biomembranes and play important roles in cell integrity, development, maintenance, and function. The essential omega-3 fatty acid family member docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is avidly retained and uniquely concentrated in the nervous system, particularly in photoreceptors and synaptic membranes. DHA plays a key role in vision, neuroprotection, successful aging, memory, and other functions. In addition, DHA displays anti-inflammatory and inflammatory resolving properties in contrast to the proinflammatory actions of several members of the omega-6 PUFAs family. This review discusses DHA signalolipidomics, comprising the cellular/tissue organization of DHA uptake, its distribution among cellular compartments, the organization and function of membrane domains rich in DHA-containing phospholipids, and the cellular and molecular events revealed by the uncovering of signaling pathways regulated by DHA and docosanoids, the DHA-derived bioactive lipids, which include neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1), a novel DHA-derived stereoselective mediator. NPD1 synthesis agonists include neurotrophins and oxidative stress; NPD1 elicits potent anti-inflammatory actions and prohomeostatic bioactivity, is anti-angiogenic, promotes corneal nerve regeneration, and induces cell survival. In the context of DHA signalolipidomics, this review highlights aging and the evolving studies on the significance of DHA in Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, Parkinson's disease, and other brain disorders. DHA signalolipidomics in the nervous system offers emerging targets for pharmaceutical intervention and clinical translation.