High-resolution genomic profiling and locus-specific FISH in subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue of obese patients

Obesity is known as a heterogeneous and multifactorial disease. The distribution of body fat is crucial for the development of metabolic complications. Comprehensive genetic analyses on different fat tissues are rare but necessary to provide more detailed information. Therefore, we performed genetic analyses of three patients with obesity using high resolution genome wide SNP array (blood, visceral fat tissue) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses (visceral and subcutaneous fat tissue). Altogether, we identified 31 small Copy Number Variations (losses: 1p31.1, 1p22.2, 1q21.3, 2q34, 2q37.1, 3q28, 6p25.3, 7q31.33, 7q33, 8p23.3, 10q22.3, 11p15.4, 11p15.1, 11p14.2, 11p12, 13q12.3, 15q11.2-q13.1, 15q13.3, 20q13.2, 22q11.21; gains: 2q22.1-q22.2, 3p14.3, 4p16.3, 4q32.2, 6q27, 7p14.3, 7q34, 11p12, 12p11.21, 16p11.2-p11.1, 17q21.31) and 289 small copy-neutral Loss of Heterozygosity (cn-LOH). For the chromosomal region 15q11.2-q13.1, we detected a microdeletion (Prader-Willi-Syndrome) in one patient. Interestingly, we identified chromosomal SNP differences between EDTA-blood and visceral fat tissue (deletion and gain). Small losses of 7q31.33, 7q33, 11p14.2, 11p12, 13q12.3 as well as small gain of 7q34 were detected only in fat tissue and not in blood. Furthermore, FISH analyses on 7q31.33, 7q33 and 11p12 revealed differences between subcutaneous and visceral fat tissue. Generally, the deletions were detected more frequent in visceral fat tissue. Predominantly detected cn-LOH vs. CNV suggests a meaning of these cn-LOH for the pathogenesis of obesity. We conclude that the SNP array and FISH analyses used is applicable to generate more information for basic research on difficult cell subpopulations (e.g., visceral adipose tissue) and could opens up new diagnostic aspects in the field of obesity. Altogether, the significance of these mostly not yet described genetic aberrations in different fat tissues needs to confirmed in a larger series.

Comparison of Growth Performance, Carcass Properties, Fatty Acid Profile, and Genes Involved in Fat Metabolism in Nanyang and Landrace Pigs

This study compared the growth, carcass properties, fatty acid profile, lipid-producing enzyme activity, and expression pattern of genes involved in fat metabolism in Nanyang and Landrace pigs. In the study, 32 Nanyang (22.16 ± 0.59 kg) and 32 Landrace barrows (21.37 ± 0.57 kg) were selected and divided into two groups, each with eight pens and four pigs per pen. The trial period lasted 90 days. The findings showed that the Nanyang pigs had lower average daily weight gain and lean percentage and higher average backfat thickness and lipogenic enzyme activities, including for acetyl-CoA carboxylase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, malic enzyme, and fatty acid synthase, than the Landrace pigs. A total of 14 long-chain fatty acids were detected using HPLC-MS, in which it was found that the levels of C14:0, C18:1n-9, C20:1n-9, C20:4n-6, and MUFA were up-regulated and C18:2n-6, C18:3n-3, PUFA n6, n3/n6, and total PUFA were down-regulated in the Nanyang pigs. Moreover, the mRNA levels for genes involved in fat metabolism, ME1, FAS, and LPL, were higher and the expression of SREBP1 mRNA was lower in the Nanyang pigs. Our results suggest genetic differences between the pig breeds in terms of growth, carcass traits, lipogenic enzyme activities, fatty acid profile, and the mRNA expression of genes involved in fat metabolism in subcutaneous fat tissue, which may provide a basis for high-quality pork production. Further studies are needed to investigate the regulation of lipid metabolism.

Impact of Protease Inhibitor-Based Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy on Fetal Subcutaneous Fat Tissue in HIV-Pregnant Women in a Middle-Income Country

BACKGROUND

HIV infection continues to be a global public health challenge, affecting approximately 1.7 million reproductive-aged women. Protease inhibitor-based highly active antiretroviral therapy (PI-HAART) has significantly reduced the risk of vertical transmission of HIV from mother to child. Nevertheless, concerns linger regarding the long-term effects, particularly on body composition, notably subcutaneous fat tissue (SFT). Although HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (LS) has been well documented in adults and older children, its impact on fetuses exposed to PI-HAART remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate SFT in the fetuses of HIV-pregnant women exposed to PI-HAART, assessing the potential clinical implications.

METHODS

We conducted a comparative study between HIV-pregnant women receiving PI-HAART and an HIV-negative control group. Fetometry measurements were obtained via 3D ultrasound. SFT in the fetal arm and thigh segments was assessed. Data were analyzed using lineal multivariate regression and receiver-operating characteristics (ROC)-curve analysis.

RESULTS

Fetuses exposed to PI-HAART exhibited a significant reduction in subcutaneous fat, particularly in the proximal third-middle union of the femur (coefficient: -2.588, p = 0.042). This reduction was correlated with lower newborn serum glucose levels (65.7 vs. 56.1, p = 0.007; coefficient: -1.277, p = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study sheds light on the connection between PI-HAART, fetal subcutaneous fat, and neonatal health. These findings might reveal the long-lasting effects of PI-HAART on newborns and children's well-being. Our results emphasize the need for a more balanced approach to managing pregnant women with HIV in developing countries and open new venues for research on the impact of intrauterine PI-HAART exposure on energy metabolism and fetal programming.

The effects of patient related factors on hidden and total blood loss in single-level open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the amount of TBL and HBL and analyse the risk factors using multivariate linear regression analysis during single-level OTLIF surgery.

METHODS

In this study 62 patients (32 male, 30 female, mean age 49.22 ± 13.26) who underwent single-level interbody fusion proce dures by a single surgeon between 2015 and 2021 were included. Retrospectively, relevant statistics regarding body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologist Score (ASA), preoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP), and age were gathered. Preoperative MR images were used to assess and measure radiological parameters such as skin-disc distance (SDA), canal area (CA), paravertebral muscle area (PVMA),lumbosacral maximum subcutaneous fat thickness (LSMSF), operation level subcutaneous fat thickness (OPSF) and spi nous process length (SPL).Total blood loss (TBL) was calculated according to Nadler's formula. Hidden blood loss (HBL) was measured by deducting the measured (visible) blood loss from TBL. TBL, HBL and their relationship with preoperative parameters were assessed.

RESULTS

HBL was determined to be significantly higher in older patients (P = 0.012). MAP was seen to have a statistically significant cor relation with operating time (P = 0.002), operative bleeding (P = 0.002), TBL (P = 0.006), and HBL (P = 0.001), and an inverse correlation with postoperative drainage (P = 0.007). The ASA scores were observed to be statistically significantly correlated with TBL (P = 0.001), and HBL (P = 0.001). LSMSF showed a significant correlation with TBL (P = 0.005) and HBL (P = 0.002). OPSF was determined to be correlated with TBL (P = 0.011), HBL (P = 0.009) and length of stay in hospital (P =0.034). SDD was correlated with TBL (P =0.043), and SPL with HBL (P = 0.013). It was shown that age (P =0.012), MAP (P =0.001), ASA (P =0.001), LSMFS (P = 0.002), OPSF (P = 0.009), SPL (P = 0.013) were risk factors for HBL. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis; two anatomical factors LSMSF and SPL were independent risk factors for HBL (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This results of this study have revealed that most patient-related parameters have a significant effect on HBL and TBL.The study has also demonstrated that LSMSF and SPL are independent risk factors for HBL.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Therapeutic Study.

Tissue-based diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis: Experience of the informal diagnostic center at Uppsala University Hospital

Diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis is a clinical challenge and usually relies on a tissue biopsy. We have developed diagnostic methods based on the presence of amyloid deposits in abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue. This tissue is also used to determine the biochemical type of amyloidosis, performed by western blot and immunohistochemical analyses with the aid of in-house developed rabbit antisera and mouse monoclonal antibodies. Mass spectrometric methods are under development for selected cases. The diagnostic outcome for 2018-2020 was studied. During this period, we obtained 1,562 biopsies, of which 1,397 were unfixed subcutaneous fat tissue with varying degrees of suspicion of systemic amyloidosis. Of these, 440 contained amyloid deposits. The biochemical nature of the amyloid was determined by western blot analysis in 319 specimens and by immunohistochemistry in further 51 cases.

Considerations on zero-degree cellulite

Cellulite affects almost all women, and it is characterized by surface relief alterations, mainly located on the thighs and buttocks, and other areas. Whereas depressed lesions occur due to the presence of thick subcutaneous fibrous septa that pull the skin surface down, raised areas result from the projection of underlying fat to the skin surface. We support that the absence of cellulite can be defined as the ideal balance between the mechanical forces that act between the subcutaneous structures, such as fat and fibrous septa and muscles, and the overlying skin.

Examination of age-related changes of viscoelasticity in the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer using ultrasound elastography

BACKGROUND

Using ultrasound elastography, the present study aimed to measure the viscoelasticity in each skin layer and to determine the relationship between the measured value, age, and body mass index (BMI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study included 77 Japanese women. We calculated the BMI and measured the facial cheek via elastography. With the use of the elastographic image, the dermis was divided into two layers, and the subcutaneous fat layer was divided into five equal sections according to the depth, ultimately obtaining seven layers. Furthermore, the thickness and viscoelasticity of each divided layer were measured.

RESULTS

The analysis of echo images revealed that the thickness of the upper dermis layer decreased with age, whereas that of the subcutaneous fat layer tended to increase with age and BMI. As measured by elastography, the viscoelasticity of both the lower dermis and the upper subcutaneous fat layer decreased with age. As the BMI increased, the viscoelasticity of the lower subcutaneous layer also increased, but that of the upper subcutaneous layer decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed the relationship between aging and viscoelasticity in the lower dermis and the relationship between aging, BMI, and viscoelasticity in the upper subcutaneous fat layer.

Effect of Soybean Meal Substitution by Raw Chickpea Seeds on Thermal Properties and Fatty Acid Composition of Subcutaneous Fat Tissue of Broiler Chickens

Simple Summary

A soybean meal, commonly used as a primary source of protein in animal diets, is often obtained from processing genetically modified soybean varieties. The tendency to reduce the use of feeds containing transgenic constituents increases the need for alternative sources of dietary protein. In this study, we fed broiler chickens diets containing either soybean meal or raw chickpea seeds. We examined the effect of such a substitution on broilers’ subcutaneous fat tissue, which has numerous important physiological functions in chickens.

Abstract

In this study, the effect of soybean meal substitution by raw chickpea seeds on the thermal properties and fatty acid profile of subcutaneous fat tissue of broiler chickens was examined. The experiment, performed on Ross 308 chickens, lasted for 42 days. Tight subcutaneous fat tissue was analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements while the fatty acid composition of subcutaneous adipose tissue was determined chromatographically. There was no effect of soybean meal substitution on fat crystallization temperature or crystallization enthalpy. However, the total calorimetric enthalpy of the melting of low-melting monounsaturated and saturated triacylglycerols differed between groups. Fatty acid proportions in the subcutaneous fat tissue of broiler chickens were also altered. Among others, chickpea seed inclusion decreased the content of main saturated acid (palmitic acid) and increased the content of main monounsaturated (oleic) and tri-unsaturated (linolenic) acids. The results show that the soybean meal substitution by raw chickpea seeds in the feed can affect the structural properties of adipose tissue in broiler chickens, including the thermal transformation of unsaturated fatty acids. Due to the numerous physiological functions of subcutaneous fat tissue, understanding these mechanisms can promote the use of alternative protein both in poultry and human nutrition.

Inflammation in the subcutaneous adipose tissue does not attenuate endothelial function in subjects with diabetes mellitus and subjects with dyslipidaemia and hypertension: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation that may be related to vascular disease. We hypothesized that inflammation in the subcutaneous adipose tissue is associated with impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilatation.

METHODS

We assessed endothelial function by measuring forearm vascular response to acetylcholine and determined inflammation in subcutaneous fat biopsies in 2 groups of subjects; 15 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 19 subjects with dyslipidaemia combined with hypertension (DcH). The adipose tissue inflammation score was based on adipocyte size, influx of macrophages and presence of crown-like structures. We compared the vascular response to acetylcholine between subjects with and without adipose tissue inflammation.

RESULTS

Patients with diabetes had clearly decreased vasodilatation compared to patients with DcH. In total, 23 of the 34 fulfilled the criteria of subcutaneous adipose tissue inflammation. However, there was no difference in vascular response to acetylcholine between the group with and without inflammation (changes in FBF from baseline 3.9 ± 0.8, 7.8 ± 1.0 and 13.6 ± 1.0 mL/dL/min compared to 4.3 ± 1.0, 7.9 ± 2.1 and 12.2 ± 2.4 mL/dL/min in response to acetylcholine 0.5, 2.0 and 8.0 μg/dL/min), nor was there a relationship between systemic hs-CRP levels and endothelial function.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirm that subjects with T2DM have impaired endothelial function compared to age- and BMI-matched subjects with DcH. However, endothelial function did not differ between participants with or without inflammation in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. These results suggest that fat tissue inflammation, at least in the subcutaneous compartment, does not affect vascular function.

Correction for adipocyte size and number in the analysis of differences in gene expression in fat tissues

In gene expression studies of candidate genes related to fat deposition, accounting for differences in cell number using reference genes could be not sufficient when cell transcriptional levels are related to cell size, or the tissues are constituted by different types of cells where candidate genes could be differentially expressed. In these situations, mixed model can be applied giving the possibility to take into account the effects of adipocyte size and number on gene expression. The inclusion in the models of analysis of adipocyte size and number, previously estimated taking into account the possible bimodality of size distribution, reduces the rate of false positives in the expression of candidate genes, although, as expected, more powerful designs are needed to detect true differences. The analysis of cellularity of adipose tissue is recommended to infer differences in the expression of genes related to fat deposition.

Three cases of systemic amyloidosis successfully diagnosed by subcutaneous fat tissue biopsy of the hip

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the abdominal fat pad is considered to be a minimally invasive procedure for diagnosing systemic amyloidosis. However, this procedure is sometimes difficult and can be dangerous for elderly patients whose abdominal fat layer is thin because of malnutrition. In such cases, alternative diagnostic methods are required. We report three elderly patients with heart failure complicated by malnutrition. In all cases, electrocardiogram showed low voltage in the limb leads and a pseudoinfarct pattern in the chest leads, and echocardiography showed left ventricular wall thickening with granular sparkling appearance. These patients were suspected of having amyloid cardiomyopathy but could not undergo myocardial biopsies because of their poor conditions. After failed attempts at biopsy of the abdominal fat pad or the other organs, subcutaneous fat tissue biopsy over the hip led to the diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis with cardiomyopathy. The resultant diagnosis guided us to choose the appropriate treatment for the patients. This article illustrates that subcutaneous fat tissue biopsy of the hip could be a useful procedure for diagnosing systemic amyloidosis in elderly patients, particularly when a fat tissue biopsy of the abdomen is associated with a high risk of complications because of malnutrition.

Radiological features of a rare case of pancreatic panniculitis presenting in bilateral lower extremities

Pancreatic panniculitis is a rare cutaneous presentation in patients with pancreatic pathology. While it presents as cutaneous inflammation with painful and erythematous nodules which demonstrate ulceration, imaging features of this pathology are seldom described. The common sites of involvement are the extremities. It demonstrates characteristic histological features of lobular panniculitis with ghost cells. MR imaging with its excellent soft tissue contrast can be helpful in confirming the diagnosis, demonstrating imaging features of fat necrosis with surrounding inflammation as demonstrated in our patient.

Relation between abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue thickness and inflammatory markers during pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Subcutaneous abdominal fat thickness (SCFT) is important for predisposition to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Our aim was to evaluate maternal SCFT and metabolic changes (such as insulin resistance and high inflammatory markers) during pregnancy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 92 pregnant women between 24-28 weeks of gestation were enrolled in the study. The SCFT was measured by ultrasonography and patients were divided into 2 groups according to thickness of maternal SCFT and body mass index (BMI). Groups were compared with each other for oral glucose loading test (OGL) results, and for haematological, biochemical and fetal biometric parameters.

RESULTS

After analysis of frequency for SCFT, the most appropriate cut-off value for grouping patients was found to be 15 mm for SCFT. In 48 cases SCFT was over 15 mm. High C reactive protein (CRP) was found in 47.9% (23) of cases with SCFT over 15 mm. Serum haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level was significantly correlated with SCFT thickness. The most important factors for determination of OGL level were found to be serum HbA1c level, BMI and SCFT. In obese subjects (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m(2)), levels of inflammatory markers and SCFT thickness were higher. The CRP and γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels were significantly correlated with BMI and SCFT.

CONCLUSIONS

High SCFT during pregnancy is associated with elevated inflammatory marker levels and HbA1c. Pregnant women with thicker SCFT may be susceptible to the development of metabolic complications of pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and hypertension, as well as risk of future metabolic and cardiovascular disease.

Protein deprivation attenuates Hsp expression in fat tissue

For ruminants, dietary protein is the first limiting component to the utilization of low-quality forage. Throughout gestation, low-protein intake may result in prenatal programming that causes various metabolic disturbances and physiological modulations to dams and their developing embryos. We studied the effect of long-term low-protein diet (LPD) on physiological, biochemical, and molecular parameters of the energy status in gestating beef cows. LPD resulted in significant reductions in feed intake and heart rate and promoted a negative retained energy status already after 3 weeks. Elevated levels of plasma creatinine and non-esterified fatty acids indicate endogenous degradation of fat and protein as a response to the demands in energy and nitrogen. Increasing levels of β-hydroxybutyrate confirmed the negative energy status obtained by the physiological measurements. At the molecular level, subcutaneous fat, Hsp90, Hsp70, and proteasome subunits decreased significantly after 3 months on LPD, in parallel with an increase of adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein. These results may indicate a decrease in turn-over of proteins, at the cost of induced lipolysis, and suggest that the response to protein deprivation, when examined in an energy-storing tissue, includes downregulation of the constitutive heat shock proteins involved in the protein degradation pathway of energy production and upregulation of tissue-specific genes such as those involved in energy production from fat degradation.