Branched-chain Fatty Acids Research Articles

Rockrose and quebracho condensed tannins have a minor impact on the fatty acid profile of goat milk and cheese without altering animal performance and composition of products

This study was carried out to test the hypothesis that the inclusion of condensed tannins (CT) from rockrose (Cistus ladanifer L.) and quebracho (Schinopsis lorentzii) in dairy goat diets supplemented with vegetable oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can increase the potentially healthy fatty acids (FA) in milk and cheese fat, without compromising animal performance and milk and cheese composition. A feeding experiment was conducted with 18 Serpentina goats distributed into three dietary treatments: C) Basal diet (Control); R) Basal diet supplemented with CT from rockrose; and Q) Basal diet supplemented with CT from quebracho. Basal diet was composed of forage and concentrate at a ratio of 25:75 and supplemented with 50 g/kg dry matter (DM) of soybean oil. Basal diet was offered at level of 800 g/head and day, and hay was offered ad libitum. Individual milk yield, chemical composition and FA profile were analyzed on days 0, 7, 14 and 21 of the experimental period. In the last week of experiment, milk of five consecutive milking from each goat was pooled to make fresh cheese, and cheese was analyzed for chemical composition and FA profile. The inclusion of CT from rockrose and quebracho in goat diets did not affect the milk yield or the milk and cheese chemical composition. Both CT sources had a minor impact on milk and cheese FA profile, limited to a reduction of some branched-chain FA in milk and cheese and a reduction of 18:1 trans-10 in milk. Rockrose CT also reduced the contents of 18:1 trans-9 in milk compared to control diet. The basal diet used in present work, containing 250 g/kg DM of dehydrated Lucerne, low-starch ingredient replacing part of the cereals and supplemented with PUFA-rich vegetable oil, resulted in goat milk and cheese with high levels of FA with potential health benefits. However, the rockrose and quebracho CT did not increase PUFA, 18:1 trans-11 and 18:2 cis-9, trans-11 levels in milk and cheese.

Abstract 4228: Replacing red and processed meat with legumes modulates gut microbiome and microbiota-related metabolites linked to gut health and cancer prevention in healthy working-aged men

Abstract Background and Aim: Changing dietary habits have great potential for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention. Regardless of the accumulated evidence on the relationship between dietary protein sources and CRC, the explaining mechanisms remain not well established. Diet-delivered microbial metabolites such as secondary bile acids (BA), N-nitroso compounds (NOC), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), and branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA) have been suggested to mediate the relationship. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of partial replacement of red and processed meat (RPM), associated with higher CRC risk, with legumes on the fecal microbiota composition and metabolite profiles in healthy men. Methods: The study was a partly controlled 6-wk parallel design randomized clinical trial (n=102, age 37 y (range 21 - 61 y), BMI 25.5 ± 3.3 kg/m2) with two groups following either a diet supplemented with RPM (meat group) or a diet supplemented with legumes and RPM (legume group). The amount of RPM (200 g/wk) in the legume group was based on the maximum amount recommended by the EAT-Lancet Commission whereas the amount in the meat group (760 g/wk) corresponded the average intake of Finnish men. Fecal SCFAs (µg/ml) and BCFAs (µg/ml) were analyzed with GS-MS, BAs (arbitrary, analyte/standard ratios) with UHPLC-MS/MS, and NOCs (pmol/mg) with selective de-nitrosation and chemiluminescence-based detection. Urine TMAO was quantified by NMR and fecal microbiota composition was analyzed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing techniques. Dietary intakes were analyzed with 4-day food records. Results: At the baseline, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were reported in age, BMI, dietary intake of total fiber (g/d), protein (E%), fat (E%), or in the fecal metabolites. The legume group had more pronounced effects on the gut microbiota community level, indicating ecosystem level differences. Total NOCs (p < 0.0001) and heme-originated NOCs (FeNO; p < 0.0001) were smaller in the legume group than in the meat group. Significant differences between the groups were observed in intake of total fiber (p < 0.001), cholesterol (mg/d, p < 0.001), saturated (p < 0.005), and polyunsaturated fat (p < 0.001). Although not significant (p > 0.05), total, secondary and unconjugated BAs, and total BCFA were higher in the meat group, whereas primary and conjugated BAs and total SCFAs were higher in the legume group. The concentration of total SCFA and individual SCFA decreased in both groups during the intervention period. Overall, a large sample-to-sample variation was observed. Conclusions: The results indicate that partial replacement of RPM with legume products can potentially change microbiota activity and gut metabolites, suggesting a protective gut metabolic profile against colorectal cancer. Citation Format: Tuulia Pietilä, Isabell Schreck, Tiina Pellinen, Johanna Vauhkonen, Essi Päivärinta, Mikko Neuvonen, Mikko Niemi, Anne Salonen, Anne-Maria Pajari. Replacing red and processed meat with legumes modulates gut microbiome and microbiota-related metabolites linked to gut health and cancer prevention in healthy working-aged men. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4228.

Betaine and Soluble Fiber Improve Body Composition and Plasma Metabolites in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition in cats and cachexia (loss of lean body mass) is a concern. A nutrition-based intervention was investigated in cats with CKD for its effects on body composition, the plasma metabolome, and possible implications on health. After a 4-week prefeed period with the control food, cats with CKD (N = 24) were randomized to one of six groups to consume a control food; a food supplemented with 0.5% betaine, 0.39% oat beta-glucan, and 0.27% short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS, test food 1); and a food supplemented with 0.5% betaine, 0.59% oat beta-glucan, and 0.41% scFOS (test food 2) in a William's Latin Square design, each for 10 weeks. Body composition was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements, and the plasma metabolome was characterized. Despite no significant differences in daily intake among the three foods, significant increases in total body mass, lean body mass, and lean plus bone mineral composition were observed when cats with CKD consumed test food 1 compared with the control food; numerical increases were seen with test food 2 versus the control food. Plasma metabolomics indicated increased one-carbon metabolism following consumption of test food 1 and/or 2, with significant increases in sarcosine and numerical increases in methionine. Lower levels of plasma trans-4-hydroxyproline and N-methylproline following consumption of test foods 1 and 2 indicates reduced collagen breakdown and perhaps reduced fibrosis. Several acylcarnitines and branched-chain fatty acids associated with CKD were also reduced when cats ate test food 1 or 2 versus the control food. Higher plasma levels of sphingomyelins with consumption of test food 1 or 2 may reflect less severe CKD. Consumption of foods with supplemental betaine and fibers by cats with CKD led to improvements in body composition and changes in the plasma metabolome that correspond to better kidney health.

Characteristics of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) Milk: Lactational Changes in Composition and Processing Impacts on Structural and Gelation Properties.

In an increasingly diversified global market, milk of minor dairy species has gained interest as a novel and premium source of nutrition. Relative to the major dairy species, much is lacking in our understanding of red deer (Cervus elaphus) milk. In this study, we characterized the compositions (macronutrients, minerals, fatty acids, and proteins) of red deer milk and their variations throughout lactation. We also investigated the structures, physical properties, and gelation (acid- and rennet-induced) properties of deer milk and how they are impacted by typical processing treatments (e.g., homogenization and pasteurization). We identified unique features in the composition of deer milk, including being richer in protein, fat, calcium, zinc, iodine, branched-chain fatty acids, and α-linolenic acid than other ruminant milks. Different deer milk components displayed diverse variation patterns over the lactation cycle, many of which were different from those demonstrated in other ruminant species. Other physicochemical features of deer milk were identified, such as its markedly larger fat globules. Processing treatments were demonstrated to alter the structural and gelation properties of deer milk. Most of the gelation properties of deer milk resembled that of bovine milk more than ovine and caprine milks. This study furthers our understanding of red deer milk and will aid in its processing and applications in novel products.

Development and Validation of the Glasgow Exclusive Enteral Nutrition Index of Compliance.

Treatment adherence is key to the efficacy of exclusive enteral nutrition [100% EN] in active Crohn's disease [CD], but there are no biomarkers to objectively estimate this. We explored faecal parameters as biomarkers of compliance with 100% EN, and subsequently developed and validated the Glasgow Exclusive Enteral Nutrition Index of Compliance [GENIE]. Healthy adults replaced all [100% EN] or part [85% EN, 50% EN, 20% EN] of their diet with a formula for 7 days. Faecal pH, water content, short chain fatty acids, and branched chain fatty acids [BCFAs] were measured before [D0] and after [D7] each intervention. Optimal biomarkers and threshold values were derived using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses and machine learning to develop the GENIE. The GENIE was then validated in 30 CD children, during and after 100% EN. In all, 61 adults were recruited. D7 faecal pH and the ratios of BCFAs to either acetate or butyrate performed the best to differentiate between patients on 100% EN from <100% EN. Two models were generated; one included faecal metabolites (Laboratory GENIE, L-GENIE; sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value [PPV] of 88%, 94%, and 92%) and a second one [Clinical Genie, C-GENIE] which considers only faecal pH [sensitivity, specificity, and PPV of 84%, 86%, and 81%]. Validation of GENIE in CD children found that C-GENIE outperformed L-GENIE, producing a sensitivity, specificity, and PPV of 85%, 88%, and 88%, respectively. GENIE can help predict adherence to 100% EN and may complement current conventional dietary assessment.

An in vitro model for caecal proteolytic fermentation potential of ingredients in broilers.

Fermentation of protein in the caeca of chickens may lead to the production of potentially detrimental metabolites, which can reduce gut health. A poor precaecal digestion is expected to increase protein fermentation (PF), as more proteins are likely to enter the caeca. It is unknown if the undigested protein that enters the caeca differs in fermentability depending on their ingredient source. In order to predict which feed ingredients increase the risk of PF, an in vitro procedure was developed, which simulates the gastric and enteric digestion, subsequent caecal fermentation. After digestion, amino acids and peptides smaller than 3.5 kD in the soluble fraction were removed by means of dialysis. These amino acids and peptides are assumed to be hydrolysed and absorbed in the small intestine of poultry and therefore not used in the fermentation assay. The remaining soluble and fine digesta fractions were inoculated with caecal microbes. In chicken, the soluble and fine fractions enter the caeca, to be fermented, while insoluble and coarse fractions bypass them. The inoculum was made N-free to ensure bacteria would require the N from the digesta fractions for their growth and activity. The gas production (GP) from the inoculum, therefore, reflected the ability of bacteria to use N from substrates and was an indirect measure for PF. The Maximum GP rate of ingredients averaged 21.3±0.9ml/h (mean±SEM) and was in some cases more rapid than the positive control (urea, maximum GP rate=16.5ml/h). Only small differences in GP kinetics were found between protein ingredients. Branched-chain fatty acids and ammonia concentrations in the fermentation fluid after 24 hours showed no differences between ingredients. Results indicate that solubilised undigested proteins larger than 3.5 kD are rapidly fermented independent of its source when an equal amount of N is present.

Tuberculostearic Acid Controls Mycobacterial Membrane Compartmentalization.

The intracellular membrane domain (IMD) is a laterally discrete region of the mycobacterial plasma membrane, enriched in the subpolar region of the rod-shaped cell. Here, we report genome-wide transposon sequencing to discover the controllers of membrane compartmentalization in Mycobacterium smegmatis. The putative gene cfa showed the most significant effect on recovery from membrane compartment disruption by dibucaine. Enzymatic analysis of Cfa and lipidomic analysis of a cfa deletion mutant (Δcfa) demonstrated that Cfa is an essential methyltransferase for the synthesis of major membrane phospholipids containing a C19:0 monomethyl-branched stearic acid, also known as tuberculostearic acid (TBSA). TBSA has been intensively studied due to its abundant and genus-specific production in mycobacteria, but its biosynthetic enzymes had remained elusive. Cfa catalyzed the S-adenosyl-l-methionine-dependent methyltransferase reaction using oleic acid-containing lipid as a substrate, and Δcfa accumulated C18:1 oleic acid, suggesting that Cfa commits oleic acid to TBSA biosynthesis, likely contributing directly to lateral membrane partitioning. Consistent with this model, Δcfa displayed delayed restoration of subpolar IMD and delayed outgrowth after bacteriostatic dibucaine treatment. These results reveal the physiological significance of TBSA in controlling lateral membrane partitioning in mycobacteria. IMPORTANCE As its common name implies, tuberculostearic acid is an abundant and genus-specific branched-chain fatty acid in mycobacterial membranes. This fatty acid, 10-methyl octadecanoic acid, has been an intense focus of research, particularly as a diagnostic marker for tuberculosis. It was discovered in 1934, and yet the enzymes that mediate the biosynthesis of this fatty acid and the functions of this unusual fatty acid in cells have remained elusive. Through a genome-wide transposon sequencing screen, enzyme assay, and global lipidomic analysis, we show that Cfa is the long-sought enzyme that is specifically involved in the first step of generating tuberculostearic acid. By characterizing a cfa deletion mutant, we further demonstrate that tuberculostearic acid actively regulates lateral membrane heterogeneity in mycobacteria. These findings indicate the role of branched fatty acids in controlling the functions of the plasma membrane, a critical barrier for the pathogen to survive in its human host.

Faecal metabolome and its determinants in inflammatory bowel disease

ObjectiveInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a multifactorial immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the intestine, comprising Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. By characterising metabolites in faeces, combined with faecal metagenomics, host genetics...

Growth performance, caecal microbiome profile, short-chain fatty acids, and litter characteristics in response to placement on reused litter and combined threonine, arginine and glutamine supplementation to juvenile male broiler chickens

BackgroundExposure of broilers to litter microbiome may increase specific amino acid (AA) requirements towards activated immune responses. This may challenge the generality of the ideal protein (IP) concept, in which dietary essential AA to lysine ratios aimed to mimic presumably constant AA to lysine ratios in whole bird requirements. Therefore, we tested the effect of threonine, arginine and glutamine (TAG) supplementation to IP-based control diets (C) on performance, caecal microbiome composition, short-chain fatty acids and litter characteristics of broiler chickens placed on reused litter.ResultsThirty-two pens with ten male broiler chickens each were used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of two diet treatments (with or without TAG supplementation) and two litter treatments (placement on clean or reused litter) for 21 days (n = 8). Caecal contents were analysed for microbiome profile using percent guanine + cytosine (%G + C profile) method and short chain fatty acids. TAG-supplemented birds underperformed compared to C birds (P = 0.002), whereas birds placed on reused litter outperformed those on clean litter (P = 0.047). Diet, reused litter and their interaction impacted the %G + C profile at different ranges. Whilst TAG supplementation reduced bacterial abundance at %G + C 51–56 (P < 0.05), reused litter placement tended to reduce %G + C 23–31 and increase %G + C 56–59 (P < 0.10). However, TAG supplementation reduced bacterial abundance at %G + C 47–51 (P < 0.05) and increased caecal branched chain fatty acids on clean litter only (P = 0.025). Greater levels of propionic acid were observed for C birds placed on reused litter only (P = 0.008). Litter pH was greater for reused litter pens than clean litter pens at day 21 (P < 0.001). In addition, litter moisture content was less for TAG birds and reused litter pens compared to C birds (P = 0.041) and clean litter pens (P < 0.001), respectively.ConclusionsThese data support the view that irrespective of performance benefits arising from bird placement on reused litter, TAG supplementation to IP-formulated baseline rations impaired growth, supported by the lowered abundance of caecal bacteria known to dominate in well-performing birds and greater levels of caecal branched chain fatty acids.

Vitreous Fatty Amides and Acyl Carnitines Are Altered in Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. In this study, we aimed to investigate the vitreous humor metabolite profiles of patients with intermediate AMD using untargeted metabolomics. We performed metabolomics using high-resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometry on the vitreous humor of 31 patients with intermediate AMD and 30 controls who underwent vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane with or without cataract surgery. Univariate analyses after false discovery rate correction were performed to discriminate the metabolites and identify the significant metabolites of intermediate AMD. For biologic interpretation, enrichment and pathway analysis were conducted using MetaboAnalyst 5.0. Of the 858 metabolites analyzed in the vitreous humor, 258 metabolites that distinguished patients with AMD from controls were identified (P values < 0.05). Ascorbic acid and uric acid levels increased in the AMD group (all P values < 0.05). The acyl carnitines, such as acetyl L-carnitine (1.37-fold), and fatty amides, such as anandamide (0.9-fold) and docosanamide (0.67-fold), were higher in patients with intermediate AMD. In contrast, nicotinamide (-0.55-fold), and succinic acid (-1.69-fold) were lower in patients with intermediate AMD. The metabolic pathway related oxidation of branched chain fatty acids and carnitine synthesis showed enrichment. Multiple metabolites related to fatty amides and acyl carnitine were found to be increased in the vitreous humor of patients with intermediate AMD, whereas succinic acid and nicotinamide were reduced, suggesting that altered metabolites related to fatty amides and acyl carnitines and energy metabolism may be implicated in the etiology of AMD.

Effect of Protein Fermentation Products on Gut Health Assessed in an In Vitro Model of Human Colon (TIM-2).

Western type of diets are characterized by high animal protein intake and are associated with various chronic inflammatory diseases. With a higher protein consumption, excess undigested protein will reach the colon and be subsequently metabolized by gut microbiota. Depending on the type of protein, fermentation in the colon generates different metabolites with varying biological effects. This study aims to compare the impact of protein fermentation products from different sources on gut health. Three high protein diets (vital wheat gluten [VWG], lentil, or casein) are submitted to the in vitro model of colon. Fermentation of excess lentil protein for 72 h results in highest production of short-chain fatty acids and lowest production of branched-chain fatty acids. Exposure of Caco-2 monolayers or Caco-2 monolayers co-cultured with THP-1 macrophages to luminal extracts of fermented lentil protein results in less cytotoxicity of Caco-2 monolayers and less damage to barrier integrity, when compared to VWG and casein. Lowest induction of interleukin-6 is observed in THP-1 macrophages after treatment with lentil luminal extracts, which is identified to be regulated by aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling. The findings indicate that protein sources affect the health effects of high protein diet in the gut.

Pre-Exposure of Foodborne Staphylococcus aureus Isolates to Organic Acids Induces Cross-Adaptation to Mild Heat.

Staphylococcus aureus is a typical enterotoxin-producing bacterium that causes food poisoning. In the food industry, pasteurization is the most widely used technique for food decontamination. However, pre-exposure to an acidic environment might make bacteria more resistant to heat treatment, which could compromise the bactericidal effect of heat treatment and endanger food safety. In this work, the organic acid-induced cross-adaptation of S. aureus isolates to heat and the associated mechanisms were investigated. Cross-adaptation area analysis indicated that pre-exposure to organic acids induced cross-adaptation of S. aureus to heat in a strain-dependent manner. Compared with other strains, S. aureus strain J15 showed extremely high heat resistance after being stressed by acetic acid, citric acid, and lactic acid. S. aureus strains J19, J9, and J17 were found to be unable to develop cross-adaptation to heat with pre-exposure to acetic acid, citric acid, and lactic acid, respectively. Analysis of the phenotypic characteristics of the cell membrane demonstrated that the acid-heat-cross-adapted strain J15 retained cell membrane integrity and functions through enhanced Na+K+-ATPase and FoF1-ATPase activities. Cell membrane fatty acid analysis revealed that the ratio of anteiso to iso branched-chain fatty acids in the acid-heat-cross-adapted strain J15 decreased and the content of straight-chain fatty acids exhibited a 2.9 to 4.4% increase, contributing to the reduction in membrane fluidity. At the molecular level, fabH was overexpressed with preconditioning by organic acid, and its expression was further enhanced with subsequent heat exposure. Organic acids activated the GroESL system, which participated in the heat shock response of S. aureus to the subsequent heat stress. IMPORTANCE Cross-adaptation is one of the most important phenotypes in foodborne pathogens and poses a potential risk to food safety and human health. In this work, we found that pretreatment with acetic acid, citric acid, and lactic acid could induce subsequent heat tolerance development in S. aureus. Various S. aureus strains exhibited different acid-heat cross-adaptation areas. The acid-induced cross-adaptation to heat might be attributable to membrane integrity maintenance, stabilization of the charge equilibrium to achieve a normal internal pH, and membrane fluidity reduction achieved by decreasing the ratios of anteiso to iso fatty acids. The fabH gene, which is involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, and groES/groEL, which are related to heat shock response, contributed to the development of the acid-heat cross-adaptation phenomenon in S. aureus. The investigations of the stress cross-adaptation phenomenon in foodborne pathogens could help optimize food processing to better control S. aureus.

A266 DIET-BASED THERAPIES FOR INTESTINAL DYSFUNCTION INDUCED BY CLOSTRIDIOIDES DIFFICILE INFECTION

Abstract Background Chronic gut dysfunction occurs in up to 25% of patients following antibiotic-treated C. difficile infection (CDI). We developed a humanized mouse model in which germ free mice colonized with microbiota from patients with severe constipation post-CDI developed slow colonic transit, as a result of damage to the Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC) network by pro-inflammatory macrophages. Colonic transit, immune activation and the ICC network normalized after fecal microbiota transplantation using samples from healthy mice, as well after treatment with psyllium fiber. Here we explored the long-term effects of psyllium and evaluated the therapeutic potential of pectin and quercetin in this model. Purpose 1) To investigate the time course of the beneficial effect of psyllium on colonic motility. 2) To explore possible therapeutic properties of flavonoids and pectin. Method Germ-free mice were colonized with microbiota from the post-CDI (PCDI) patient or healthy controls (HC). After 3 weeks, the mice were fed for 4-5 weeks with a control diet or diets with 15% psyllium (PSY), 10% pectin (PCT) or 0.05% quercetin (QCT). To evaluate time course of PSY on motility, control diet was administered for 3-weeks following PSY treatment. The bead expulsion test was used to assess colonic motility. Stool samples were collected for microbial profiling, and short and branched-chain fatty acids (SCFA/BCFA) analysis. Macrophages morphology and counts, and ICC network structure were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Result(s) Compared to HC microbiota, colonization with post-CDI microbiota induced slow colonic transit in recipient mice, and this was normalized by PSY (n=13; p=0.02). The benefit of PSY was transient as colonic transit slowed following discontinuation of PSY (p=0.001). The changes in colonic transit were paralleled by switch in macrophages phenotype and damage to the ICC network. Additionally, discontinuation of PSY resulted in a return of microbial diversity (p&amp;lt; 0.001), SCFA/BCFA levels (acetic and propionic acid/ iso-butyric and valeric acid) and specific bacterial species abundances, to values seen in untreated mice colonized with post-CDI microbiota. Microbial analysis predicted potential pathways involved in macrophage polarization, including the synthesis of SCFA/BCFA, degradation of inositol and production of acetylglucosamine. PCT also normalized slow intestinal transit in mice colonized with post-CDI microbiota (p=0.003), restored phenotype of infiltrating macrophages, and improved the structural integrity of the ICC network. In contrast, QCT failed to improve gut dysfunction in PCDI mice. Conclusion(s) Our results suggest that the beneficial effects of psyllium in this model are transient. Dietary pectin, but not quercetin, may also serve as a novel treatment strategy to restore colonic motility and immune homeostasis in humans with severe constipation post-CDI. Please acknowledge all funding agencies by checking the applicable boxes below Other Please indicate your source of funding; W. Garfield Weston Foundation Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Hepatic and serum branched-chain fatty acid profile in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A case-control study.

Alterations in the hepatic lipidome are a crucial factor involved in the pathophysiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum and hepatic profile of branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) in patients with different stages of NAFLD. This was a case-control study performed in 27 patients without NAFLD, 49 patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver,and 17 patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, defined by liver biopsies. Serum and hepatic levels of BCFAs were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The hepatic expression of genes involved in the endogenous synthesis of BCFAs was analyzed byreal-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A significant increase in hepatic BCFAs was found in subjects with NAFLD compared with those without NAFLD; no differences were observed in serum BCFAs between study groups. Trimethyl BCFAs, iso-BCFAs, and anteiso-BCFAs were increased in subjects with NAFLD (either nonalcoholic fatty liver or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) compared with those without NAFLD. Correlation analysis showed a relationship between hepatic BCFAs and the histopathological diagnosis of NAFLD, as well as other histological and biochemical parameters related to this disease. Gene expression analysis in liver showed that the mRNA levels of BCAT1, BCAT2, and BCKDHA were upregulated in patients with NAFLD. These results suggest that the increased production of liver BCFAs might be related to NAFLD development and progression.

Patients with Anorexia Nervosa Demonstrate Deficiencies of Selected Essential Fatty Acids, Compensatory Changes in Nonessential Fatty Acids and Decreased Fluidity of Plasma Lipids

The objective of this study was to assess the essential fatty acid status of patients with anorexia nervosa. Blood was collected from eight fasting female anorexia nervosa patients with a mean of 81% ideal body weight. Fatty acid composition of phospholipids, nonesterified fatty acids, triglycerides and cholesteryl esters of plasma were determined by capillary gas chromatography to indicate polyunsaturated fatty acids status compared with 19 healthy female adults <25 y old. Subjects with anorexia nervosa showed polyunsaturated fatty acid deficiencies in plasma phospholipids different from simple nutritional essential fatty acid deficiency or chronic malnutrition. The phospholipid profile showed significantly lower (n-6) and (n-3) elongation and desaturation products, and elevated short-chain saturated, short-chain monounsaturated, branched-chain and odd-chain fatty acids. These elevations indicate enhancement of biosynthesis of alternative fatty acids that only partially compensated for the loss of polyunsaturated fatty acids in providing membrane “fluidity.” Calculated mean melting point of the fatty acids of phospholipids in patients with anorexia nervosa was elevated 7.7°C above normal values. These results demonstrate that patients with anorexia nervosa have deficiencies of selected essential fatty acids, compensatory changes in nonessential fatty acids and decreased fluidity of plasma lipids.

Effects on rumen microbiome and milk quality of dairy cows fed a grass silage-based diet supplemented with the macroalga Asparagopsis taxiformis

The objective was to determine the effects on rumen microbiome and milk quality of reducing the methane (CH4) produced from enteric fermentation by the addition of Asparagopsis taxiformis (AT) to the diets of dairy cows. Six Nordic Red cows at 122 ± 13.7 (mean ± SD) days in milk, of parity 2.7 ± 0.52 and producing 36 kg ± 2.5 kg milk per day at the start of the trial were divided into three blocks by milk yield and assigned to an extra-period Latin-square change-over design comprising two dietary treatments. An extra period of observation was added to the Latin-square change-over design to control for carry-over effects. The dietary treatments were a diet consisting of grass silage and a commercial concentrate mixture (60:40) either not supplemented or supplemented with 0.5% AT on an organic matter intake basis. On average, daily CH4 production, CH4 yield, and CH4 intensity decreased by 60%, 54%, and 58%, respectively, in cows fed the diet supplemented with AT. Furthermore, hydrogen gas emitted by cows fed diets supplemented with AT increased by more than five times compared with cows fed a non-AT-supplemented diet. Feed intake was decreased and milk production altered, reflecting a decreased yield of milk fat in cows fed an AT-supplemented diet, but feed efficiency increased. Rumen fermentation parameters were changed to promote propionate rather than acetate and butyrate fermentation. The most prominent change in milk quality was an increase in bromine and iodine when the diet was supplemented with AT. The reduction in CH4 was associated with a shift from Methanobrevibacter to Methanomethylophilaceae in the archaeal population and a lower relative abundance of Prevotella in the bacterial population. Changes in milk fat odd-numbered and branched-chain fatty acids in the current study of AT supplementation support observed differences in ruminal archaeal and bacterial populations.

Antimicrobial Peptides Relieve Transportation Stress in Ragdoll Cats by Regulating the Gut Microbiota.

Transportation is common in cats and often causes stress and intestinal disorders. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) exhibit a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, and they may have the capacity for antioxidant and immune regulation. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with AMPs on stress response, gut microbiota and metabolites of cats that have undergone transport stress. A total of 14 Ragdoll cats were randomly allocated into 2 treatments: basal diet (CON) and a basal diet supplemented with 0.3% AMPs. After a 6-week feeding period, all cats were transported for 3 h and, then, fed for another week. The results show that the diarrhea rate of cats was markedly reduced by supplementation with AMPs throughout the trial period (p < 0.05). In addition, AMPs significantly reduced serum cortisol and serum amyloid A (p < 0.05) and increased apolipoprotein 1 after transportation (p < 0.05). Moreover, AMPs reduced the level of inflammatory factors in the serum caused by transportation stress, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) (p < 0.05). The AMPs enhanced the activities of glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.01) and superoxide dismutase (p < 0.05). Furthermore, cats fed AMPs had higher levels of branched chain fatty acids (BCFAs) and a relative abundance of Blautia and a lower relative abundance of Negativibacillus after transportation (p < 0.05). The serum metabolome analysis further revealed that AMPs markedly regulated lipid metabolism by upregulating cholic acid expression. In conclusion, AMP supplementation alleviated oxidative stress and inflammatory response in transportation by regulating the gut microbiota and metabolites, thereby relieving stress-induced diarrhea and supporting gut and host health in cats.

Monomethyl branched-chain fatty acids enriched bacterial oil production by furan aldehydes tolerant halophile Lentibacillus salarius strain BPIITR using non-detoxified sugarcane bagasse

The structural diversity of monomethyl branched-chain fatty acids (mBCFAs) expanded their application in biolubricants, biofuels for enhancing cold flow and thermo-oxidative properties. Current study focuses on mBCFAs production from sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate in biorefinery approach with halophilic Lentibacillus salarius BPIITR. Halophilic bacterium exhibited tolerance towards furan aldehydes up to 150 mM in minimal medium and produced 3.40 ± 0.13 and 2.47 ± 0.15 gL−1 lipid rich in mBCFAs, in xylose and glucose rich non-detoxified hydrolysate, respectively at bench-scale bioreactor. In addition, 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid and 2-furancarboxylic acids were co-produced as value-added products up to 41.34 ± 4.73 and 59.84 ± 5.17 mM, respectively. The biosynthesized bacterial oil exhibited onset oxidation temperature of 319.5 °C and low temperature viscosity ratio of 2.92. The accumulated lipid was rich in triacylglycerol content more than 67 % with 12-methyl tetradecanoic acid as major fatty acid.

Disruption of mitochondrial bioenergetics and calcium homeostasis by phytanic acid in the heart: Potential relevance for the cardiomyopathy in Refsum disease

Refsum disease is an inherited peroxisomal disorder caused by severe deficiency of phytanoyl-CoA hydroxylase activity. Affected patients develop severe cardiomyopathy of poorly known pathogenesis that may lead to a fatal outcome. Since phytanic acid (Phyt) concentrations are highly increased in tissues of individuals with this disease, it is conceivable that this branched-chain fatty acid is cardiotoxic. The present study investigated whether Phyt (10–30 μM) could disturb important mitochondrial functions in rat heart mitochondria. We also determined the influence of Phyt (50–100 μM) on cell viability (MTT reduction) in cardiac cells (H9C2). Phyt markedly increased mitochondrial state 4 (resting) and decreased state 3 (ADP-stimulated) and uncoupled (CCCP-stimulated) respirations, besides reducing the respiratory control ratio, ATP synthesis and the activities of the respiratory chain complexes I-III, II, and II-III. This fatty acid also reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and induced swelling in mitochondria supplemented by exogenous Ca2+, which were prevented by cyclosporin A alone or combined with ADP, suggesting the involvement of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore opening. Mitochondrial NAD(P)H content and Ca2+ retention capacity were also decreased by Phyt in the presence of Ca2+. Finally, Phyt significantly reduced cellular viability (MTT reduction) in cultured cardiomyocytes. The present data indicate that Phyt, at concentrations found in the plasma of patients with Refsum disease, disrupts by multiple mechanisms mitochondrial bioenergetics and Ca2+ homeostasis, which could presumably be involved in the cardiomyopathy of this disease.

Contenido de ácidos grasos en leche de cabra criolla-Nubia con diferentes dietas estacionales en un sistema de alimentación intensiva en una región árida

The objective is to determine the seasonal-diet effect (dry, rainy) on goats’ milk fatty acid profile reared on a farm with an intensive production system located in an arid zone of Mexico. In the rainy season, a group of 10 goats, Creole × Anglo-Nubian, consumed a diet composed exclusively of alfalfa hay (Medicago sativa). Meanwhile, in the dry season, a similar goat group ate a mixture of corn (Zea mays) and sorghum grains (Sorghum bicolor), and buffel grass hay (Cenchrus ciliaris) in a 1:1:1 ratio. The goats were between 90 and 180 days of lactation. The saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and branched-chain fatty acids in milk were measured. The rainy-season milk showed a higher content of fatty acids; however, the contents of most types of fatty acids were not significant between seasons, except for the polyunsaturated (18:2 n-6, -linoleic acid) and highly unsaturated fatty acids (arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic acid).