Decrease In Cholesterol Levels Research Articles

Depression-related Testosterone Deficiency is Linked to Reduced Cholesterol Levels in Leydig Cells of CUMS Mice.

Testosterone deficiency in humans can be caused by depressive symptoms; however, the causes of this deficiency are incompletely understood. This study demonstrates that male mice with depression-like symptoms due to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) show reduced serum testosterone levels and disrupted sexual behaviors. However, the observed testosterone reductions were not caused by apoptosis of Leydig cells. Oil red O staining revealed that lipid droplets were dramatically decreased in Leydig cells, suggesting that defects in cholesterol uptake might be related to testosterone-deficiency in depression-like mice. To investigate the potential mechanism, lipid homeostasis was examined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed that higher levels of sphingomyelins (SM 8:0;2O/28:1, 18:0;2O/22:2, 33:0;3O, 33:1;2O) were linked to decreased cholesterol levels. Further investigation indicated that testosterone biosynthesis from cholesterol in Leydig cells was impaired by downregulation of Ldlr, SR-BI, LHR, and P450scc. Elevated levels of interferon signaling associated pathways in depression-like mice testes may also contribute to decreased testosterone level. Taken together, these findings provide a novel understanding of male reproductive problems under psychological stress and suggest that cholesterol uptake might be a causal factor in reduced testosterone production in depression-like mice.

MANAGING LIPID LEVELS IN THE LIFE-LONG REHABILITATION OF PATIENTS WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Cardiac rehabilitation includes secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. Since the level of LDL cholesterol, which is an important risk factor for cardiovascular events, had been shown to be insufficiently controlled in persons included in the third phase of cardiac rehabilitation in the Coronary Club of Ljubljana, we aimed to explore if an additional educational program would improve the control of blood lipids and self-management ability in these subjects. Members of the Coronary Club of Ljubljana were invited to join a ten-month structured program for the management of cardiovascular risk factors with an emphasis on lipid control. Participation in the program activities was optional. A total of 146 subjects were enrolled. During the study, a slight decrease was seen in the following parameters: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and glycated haemoglobin (p<0.05). In the whole group of participants, the median LDL cholesterol level decreased from 2.5 mmol/L (interquartile range [IQR], 1.8-3.4) to 2.2 mmol/L (IQR, 1.7-3.5), but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.081), while in the participants who attended individual consultations or workshops, a significant decrease in LDL cholesterol levels was observed. At the beginning of the study, very high-risk patients had higher activation, indicated with higher median baseline Patient Activation Measure (PAM) score, than high-risk patients (60.6 versus 55.6). During the study, the median PAM score increased in high-risk patients (from 55.6 to 60.6), but not in very high-risk patients. Thus, an additional educational program can improve lipid control and patient activation in subjects included in the third phase of cardiac rehabilitation.

Moderate intensity continuous and interval training increased VEGF and decreased cholesterol levels in female rats high calorie diet

This study investigated the impact of moderate-intensity continuous training and moderate-intensity interval training on VEGF and cholesterol levels in female rats given high-calorie diet. The research was a randomized post-test with only a control group design. Thirty-two female rats were randomly assigned to four groups, P1 (n=8, standard diet group), P2 (n=8, high-calorie diet group), P3 (n=8, combination high-calorie diet and moderate intensity continuous training), P4 (n=8, combination high-calorie diet and moderate intensity interval training). The P2,P3,P4 consisted of an ad libitum standard diet plus a dextrose solution for 4 weeks. The intervention group of P3 underwent swimming plus 6% load of body weight for 10 minutes in first week, 20 minutes in second week, and 30 minutes in third and fourth week. The intervention group of P4 underwent swimming with a ratio of 2:1 between swimming and rest time, plus 6% load of body weight, progressively increased each week. Cholesterol and VEGF levels were measured post-intervention. The mean cholesterol levels in both high-calorie diet group combined with MICT and MIIT were significantly lower (p < 0.001) compared to high-calorie diet group. The mean VEGF of high-calorie diet group combined with MICT was significantly higher (p = 0.025) compared to standard and high-calorie diet group, and high-calorie diet group combined with MIIT was significantly higher (p = 0.004) compared to high-calorie diet group. It can be concluded that both moderate-intensity continuous and interval training significantly increased VEGF and reduced cholesterol levels. Key Words: obesity, interval training, continuous training, cholesterol, VEGF.

Case Report: Effect of Ajwa Date Consumption on LDL Levels in Perimenopausal Women

During perimenopause, there can be a decrease in estrogen production, which indicates the end of a woman’s reproductive years. The production of the hormone estrogen that continues to decrease will cause hypercholesterolemia. Decrease in LDL cholesterol levels can be increased by giving antioxidant properties, which are rich in vitamin C and contain flavanoids and phenolics that function as antioxidants. The method used in this study is Literature Review with Design Narrative Review. The result from the literature it was found the effect of giving ajwa dates (Phoenix Dactylifera L) before and after administration showed a change, namely a decrease in LDL levels after giving ajwa dates. This is because ajwa dates contain flavanoids, phenolics, and plant sterols that function as antioxidant that can prevent the formation of lipid peroxidation. The conclusion based on the results of the literature review, it can be concluded that giving ajwa dates to perimenopause women decreased LDL levels where ajwa dates have antioxidant functions to prevent lipid peroxidation to reduce LDL. The suggestion from the study is necessary to conduct further research on the effect of consumption of ajwa dates on LDL levels in perimenopause women using experimental methods of pretest and posttest design.

The protective effect of pregabalin and xanthenone on testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

Torsion of the spermatic cord is a hazardous and common urologic issue. The current work evaluates the possible protective effect of pregabalin (PGB) and xanthenone (XAN) in testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury induced by testicular torsion/detorsion in rats. Seven groups of adult male Wistar albino rats were allocated randomly into seven groups, namely, sham control, torsion/detorsion (T/D), PGB 50 mg/kg, PGB 100 mg/kg, XAN 1mg/kg, XAN 2 mg/kg, and PGB 50 mg/kg plus XAN 1mg/kg groups. Serum cholesterol and testosterone levels were determined. Also, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-қB), angiotensin (Ang) II, Ang-(1-7), and angiotensin-converting enzyme2 (ACE2) were assessed in testicular tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and caspase-3 was performed. Finally, the histopathological examination of the testicular tissues was performed. The PGB 50 mg/kg, PGB 100 mg/kg, XAN 1mg/kg, XAN 2mg/kg, and PGB 50 mg/kg plus XAN 1mg/kg groups showed a significant decrease in serum cholesterol, MDA, NO, TNF-α, NF-қB, and Ang-II levels coupled with a significant increase in both testosterone and ACE2 expression. Furthermore, all test groups showed a significant improvement in the histopathological picture with a reduction in caspase-3 and an increase in HO-1 immunoexpression in testicular tissue. PGB and XAN may have promising effects on preventing testicular T/D injury through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic actions.

Effect of Crushed Flaxseed Consumption on Cardiovascular Risk Indicators in Menopausal Women.

Flaxseed is known for its numerous health benefits and is often used in the prevention and treatment of civilizational diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of consuming crushed flaxseed on cardiovascular risk in 51 menopausal women. The intervention lasted for 8 weeks, during which participants received a daily dose of 40 g of crushed flaxseed from two varieties with differing lignan contents. Participants were divided into three subgroups based on the variety of flaxseed consumed: (1) high-lignan group (HL), (2) low-lignan group (LL), and (3) control group (no flaxseed consumption). Biochemical blood parameters were measured using a BiOLis 24i Premium automatic analyzer. Body composition was assessed using an InBody 720 device. In the lipid profile, we observed a significant increase in total cholesterol (T-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, along with a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in both the HL and LL groups. Triglyceride (TG) levels exhibited no significant change, whereas high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were significantly reduced in both the HL (p < 0.01) and LL (p < 0.01) groups. Visceral fat area (VFA) and percent body fat (PBF) showed a slight decreasing trend in the HL group, whereas in the LL group, VFA showed a slight increase. Body mass index (BMI) remained stable across all groups. These findings suggest that for the modulation of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, the daily dosage, duration of consumption, form of intake, and the specific variety of flaxseed (based on lignan content) are crucial factors.

Effect of sodium glucose Co-transporter 2 inhibitor use on anthropometric measurements and blood glucose in obese and non-obese type 2 diabetic patients

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are closely associated with each other and require careful management. This study aimed to assess the impact of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on glycemic control and body composition in diabetic patients, stratified by obesity status. We enrolled patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, categorized as obese (BMI≥30) or non-obese (BMI<30), from our outpatient clinic. SGLT2 inhibitor therapy was added to their existing treatment regimen without altering dietary habits or exercise routines. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory parameters were compared between baseline and the third month of treatment. The study included 40 participants, evenly split between obese and non-obese groups. At the third-month follow-up, significant reductions were observed in BMI, weight, waist and hip circumference, and body fat percentage across both groups (p<0.001). Conversely, muscle mass percentage significantly increased (p<0.001). Additionally, there were statistically significant decreases in HbA1c, glucose, CRP, ALT, LDL, and total cholesterol levels from baseline to the third month of treatment (p<0.001 for HbA1c and glucose; p=0.009, p=0.022, p=0.003, and p=0.021, respectively, for CRP, ALT, LDL, and total cholesterol). The findings of the present study suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may offer substantial benefits, particularly in the management of obesity-related type 2 diabetes.

Hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective activity of Phellinus fastuosus on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and carbon tetrachloride-intoxicated rats, respectively

BackgroundPhellinus fastuosus is a wood-eating medicinal fungus from Western Ghats of India. Therefore, we investigated hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective effects of P. fastuosus aqueous extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity in rats, respectively.ResultAs compared to the diabetic control group, a 400 mg/kg dose had significant hypoglycemic effects, including a reduction in blood glucose (24.44%) and gain in body weight. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity reduced by 31.81% and 32.84%, respectively, were also noted, along with decreases in triglycerides (24.32%) and cholesterol (25.89%) levels. The albumin, bilirubin and creatinine levels were also significantly reduced after administration of P. fastuosus extract in diabetic rats. Administration of P. fastuosus extract showed a substantial decrease in the activity of ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in addition a decrease in the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO) as compared to CCl4-intoxicated rats. The cumulative effect of CCl4 increased the erythrocyte membrane peroxidation, whereas P. fastuosus extract reduced the cholesterol and increased phospholipid, thus preventing the alteration of membrane fluidity as compared to CCl4-intoxicated rats. FTIR and HR-LC-MS-based metabolic profiling revealed the presence of various functional groups and bioactive metabolites.ConclusionThe extract showed the hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective effects due to the presence of various bioactive metabolites. Exploration of therapeutic potential of P. fastuosus using bioassay-guided fractionation is needed.

A randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial demonstrating efficacy of different probiotic strains on serum lipids and glycemic biomarker.

the aim of this randomized placebo-controlled study was to investigate the effect of probiotics mainly on plasma lipids, homocysteine levels, glycemic biomarkers and inflammatory marker in people with hyperlipidemia, compared to a placebo. a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study was completed with a total of 51 men and women who have diagnosed with hyperlipidemia. The three study interventions were: 1) probiotic group I asked to take once a day 1 x 106 colony forming unit (CFU) Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG microorganism (n = 18) capsule; 2) probiotic group II asked to take once a day of a combined Lactobacillus acidophilus 1 x 109 CFU and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp.lactis 1 x 109 CFU probiotic capsule (n = 17); and 3) placebo group: emptied capsule (n = 16), plasma lipids, homocysteine, and glycemic biomarkers were were performed at baseline and week 8. Also, hs-CRP levels was assessed as inflammatory parameter. compared to baseline there was a significant decrease in triglyceride and total cholesterol levels of the both intervention groups compared to the placebo group. Regarding the glycemic biomarkers. both intervention groups significantly alter the HOMA-IR values compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). When homocysteine values were evaluated. a statistically significant decrease was observed only in the group using the combined strain (p < 0.05). Results demonstrated that regular and strain-specific use of probiotics have effective and favorable consequences on plasma lipids and glycemic biomarkers. probiotics containing Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium could be effective in hypercholesterolemic patients, reducing serum lipids as well as homocysteine and glycaemia.

Bentonite-supplemented diets improved fish performance ammonia excretion haemato-biochemical analyses immunity antioxidants and histological characteristics of European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax

The purpose of this research was to examine the potential effects of bentonite (BN) supplemented diets on growth, feed utilization, blood biochemistry, and histomorphology of Dicentrarchus labrax. Six treatments in triplicate were tested: B0, B0.5, B1.0, B1.5, B3.0, and B4.5, which represented fish groups fed diets supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, and 4.5% BN, respectively. For 84 days, juveniles’ seabass (initial weight = 32.73 g) were fed diets containing 46% protein, three times daily at 3% of body weight. With a 5% daily water exchange, underground seawater (32 ppt) was used. Findings revealed significant improvements in water quality (TAN and NH3), growth (FW, WG and SGR) and feed utilization (FCR, PER and PPV) in fish fed BN-supplemented diets, with the best values in favor of the B1.5 group. Additional enhancements in kidney function indicators (urea and uric acid) and liver enzymes were observed in fish of the BN-treated groups along with a decrease in cholesterol level in the B1.5 group. Further improvements in fish innate immunity (hemoglobin, red blood cells, glucose, total protein, globulin, and immunoglobulin IgM), antioxidant activity (total antioxidative capacity and catalase), and decreased cortisol levels in fish of the BN-treated groups. Histological examinations of the anterior and posterior intestines and liver in groups B1.5 and B3 revealed the healthiest organs. This study recommends BN at a concentration of 1.5% as a feed additive in the Dicentrarchus labrax diet.

Comprehensive chemical profiling with UHPLC-MS, in-vitro, in-silico, and in-vivo antidiabetic potential of Typha domingensis Pers; A novel source of bioactive compounds

Aim of studyTypha is one of the valuable plant genera in folklore use in diabetes, and it can be a good source of bioactive chemicals. The current project was planned to investigate the pharmaceutical potential of n-butanol fraction of Typha domingensis Pers. (TDBF), a less explored medicinal plant. Materials and methodsThe phytochemical composition of the TDBF was assessed through a comprehensive analysis, encompassing the quantification of total bioactive contents (including total tannins and HPLC-PDA quantification) and a thorough exploration of secondary metabolites through scanning with UHPLC-MS. The pharmacological assessment included the determination of antioxidant activity (Total Antioxidant Capacity and Metal Chelating Assay), hemolytic potential, in-vitro antidiabetic effects (α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition, and antiglycation activity), as well as in-vivo antidiabetic activities. Molecular docking and ADMET studies were also performed for UHPLC-MS identified compounds. ResultsThe TDBF showed 134.76 ± 8.23 mg TAE/g total tannin contents. With HPLC-PDA, p-Hydroxy benzoic acid and p-Coumaric acid were quantified. During UHPLC-MS scanning, a total of five bioactive metabolites were identified in the negative mode, while 54 were detected in the positive mode. The in-vivo assessment of antidiabetic activity revealed a notable reduction in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats following treatment with the extract, demonstrating its efficacy compared to the control groups. Furthermore, the extract exhibited a positive impact on renal and liver function, evidenced by lowered levels of serum urea, ALT, ALP, creatinine, and a decrease in serum cholesterol levels. ConclusionThe results of this study showed that Typha domingensis Pers. possesses a variety of bioactive compounds and demonstrates notable potential in regulating diabetes. The study recommends further investigation into isolating these bioactive phytochemicals for their potential therapeutic applications across various diseases.

Monoglucosyl rutin, a flavonoid glycoside, improves low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in healthy adults: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) continues to be a significant contributor to global mortality, impacting over 523 million individuals worldwide. Dyslipidemia stands as one of the foremost risk factors for ASCVD. Thus, prioritizing the reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels is essential in mitigating cardiovascular complications. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the lipid-lowering activity of a dietary supplement containing monoglucosyl rutin (MR) in individuals with low to mild hypercholesterolemia. Methods: This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study conducted from April 20 to December 24, 2022. The study population included 56 healthy Japanese adult participants with LDL-C levels between 120–139 mg/dL who were randomly allocated to either the MR or placebo groups (n = 28/group) using a computerized random number generator. 200 mg of MR or placebo divided into 3 tablets was given daily; participants were instructed to take 1 tablet with water after each meal for 12 weeks. The main focus was on measuring the serum LDL-C level as the primary outcome, with additional attention given to secondary outcomes such as serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, and nonHDL-C levels. The study also evaluated the percentage of participants achieving serum LDL-C levels below 120 mg/dL after the 12-week intervention. Assessments were conducted after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of intervention. Results: There were 54 (27 in each group) participants in the per-protocol set (PPS) and 53 (placebo group, 26; MR group, 27) participants in the modified PPS (mPPS). A statistically significant group difference in serum LDL-C levels was observed (P &lt; 0.05), with a 5.0% decrease from preintervention to after 12 weeks. The reduction in LDL-C levels coincided with (statistically significant?) decreases in total cholesterol levels, nonHDL-C levels, and the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. During the study period, there was no adverse event or concern about the safety of MR. Conclusions: MR has potential as a preventive or therapeutic tool for improving improve long-term health and reducing cardiovascular morbidity. Keywords: monoglucosyl rutin, flavonoid glycoside, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hyperlipidemia, lipid profile Trial registration number: UMIN000047790

Metabolic Syndrome and Sleep Apnea: The Impact of Lifestyle Interventions

Abstract Contemporary healthcare focuses on assessing the efficacy of dietary and exercise interventions in mitigating metabolic syndrome and its association with sleep apnea. Results demonstrate notable reductions in the HOMA Index and triglyceride levels among treated cohorts, indicating improved glycemic control and lipid profile. Additionally, intervention groups exhibit significant decreases in cholesterol levels, indicative of enhanced lipid profile. Marginal alterations in C-Reactive Protein imply limited impact on systemic inflammation, while consistent uric acid levels suggest potential autonomy from the interventions. Remarkable correlations between clinical parameters and sleep apnea risk underscore the pivotal role of lifestyle modifications in metabolic syndrome management, offering insights into underlying mechanisms. The aim of this study is to further investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed improvements in metabolic parameters following dietary and exercise interventions, with a specific focus on elucidating the relationship between these interventions and the risk of sleep apnea in individuals with metabolic syndrome. These findings elucidate the intricate interplay between metabolic risk factors and sleep apnea susceptibility, thereby informing therapeutic and preventive approaches for individuals with metabolic syndrome.

Apolipoprotein E4 interferes with lipid metabolism to exacerbate depression-like behaviors in 5xFAD mice.

Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) allele is the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, and it can aggravate depressive symptoms in non-AD patients. However, the impact of ApoE4 on AD-associated depression-like behaviors and its underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. This study developed a 5xFAD mouse model overexpressing human ApoE4 (E4FAD). Behavioral assessments and synaptic function tests were conducted to explore the effects of ApoE4 on cognition and depression in 5xFAD mice. Changes in peripheral and central lipid metabolism, as well as the levels of serotonin (5-HT) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex, were examined. In addition, the protein levels of 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase/glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta/mammalian target of rapamycin (DHCR24/GSK3β/mTOR) and postsynaptic density protein 95/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (PSD95/CaMK-II/BDNF) were measured to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of ApoE4 on AD mice. Compared with 5xFAD mice, E4FAD mice exhibited more severe depression-like behaviors and cognitive impairments. These mice also exhibited increased amyloid-beta deposition in the hippocampus, increased astrocyte numbers, and decreased expression of depression-related neurotransmitters 5-HT and GABA in the prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, lipid metabolism disorders were observed in E4FAD, manifesting as elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in peripheral blood, decreased cholesterol level in the prefrontal cortex, and reduced expression of key enzymes and proteins related to cholesterol synthesis and homeostasis. Abnormal expression of proteins related to the DHCR24/GSK3β/mTOR and PSD95/CaMK-II/BDNF pathways was also observed. This study found that ApoE4 overexpression exacerbates depression-like behaviors in 5xFAD mice and confirmed that ApoE4 reduces cognitive function in these mice. The mechanism may involve the induction of central and peripheral lipid metabolism disorders. Therefore, modulating ApoE expression or function to restore cellular lipid homeostasis may be a promising therapeutic target for AD comorbid with depression. This study also provided a better animal model for studying AD comorbid with depression.

Evolocumab Treatment in Dyslipidemic Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: One-Year Safety and Efficacy Results.

Background: The inhibition of PCSK9 lowered LDL cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. However, the effect on patients who have undergone surgical myocardial revascularization has not yet been evaluated. Methods: From January 2017 to December 2022, 180 dyslipidemic patients who underwent coronary artery bypass were included in the study. Until December 2019, 100 patients optimized therapy with statin ± ezetimibe (SG). Since January 2020, 80 matched patients added treatment with Evolocumab every 2 weeks (EG). All 180 patients were followed-up at 3 and 12 months, comparing outcomes. Results: The two groups are homogenous. At 3 months and 1 year, a significant decrease in the parameter mean levels of LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol is detected in the Evolocumab group compared to the standard group. No mortality was detected in either group. No complications or drug discontinuation were recorded. In the SG group, five patients (5%) suffered a myocardial infarction during the 1-year follow-up. In the EG group, two patients (2.5%) underwent PTCA due to myocardial infarction. There is no significant difference in overall survival according to the new treatment (p-value = 0.9), and the hazard ratio is equal to 0.94 (95% C.I.: [0.16-5.43]; p-value = 0.9397). Conclusions: The use of Evolocumab, which was started immediately after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, significantly reduced LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels compared to statin treatment alone and is completely safe. However, at one year of follow-up, this result did not have impact on the reduction in major clinical events.

HDL-Cholesterol Subfraction Dimensional Distribution Is Associated with Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Is Predicted by Visceral Adiposity and Dietary Lipid Intake in Women.

HDL-cholesterol quality, including cholesterol distribution in HDL subfractions, is emerging as a key discriminant in dictating the effects of these lipoproteins on cardiovascular health. This study aims at elucidating the relationship between cholesterol distribution in HDL subfractions and CVD risk factors as well as diet quality and energy density in a population of pre- and postmenopausal women. Seventy-two women aged 52 ± 6 years were characterized metabolically and anthropometrically. Serum HDL-C subfractions were quantified using the Lipoprint HDL System. Cholesterol distribution in large HDL subfractions was lower in overweight individuals and study participants with moderate to high estimated CVD risk, hypertension, or insulin resistance. Cholesterol distribution in large, as opposed to small, HDL subfractions correlated negatively with insulin resistance, circulating triglycerides, and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). VAT was an independent positive and negative predictor of cholesterol distribution in large and small HDL subfractions, respectively. Furthermore, an increase in energy intake could predict a decrease in cholesterol levels in large HDL subfractions while lipid intake positively predicted cholesterol levels in small HDL subfractions. Cholesterol distribution in HDL subfractions may represent an additional player in shaping CVD risk and a novel potential mediator of the effect of diet on cardiovascular health.

The Influence of a High-Cholesterol Diet and Forced Training on Lipid Metabolism and Intestinal Microbiota in Male Wistar Rats.

Adequate experimental animal models play an important role in an objective assessment of the effectiveness of medicines and functional foods enriched with biologically active substances. The aim of our study was a comparative assessment of the effect of consumption of 1 or 2% cholesterol with and without regular (two times a week), moderate running exercise on the main biomarkers of lipid and cholesterol metabolism, as well as the intestinal microbiota of male Wistar rats. In experimental rats, a response of 39 indicators (body weight, food consumption, serum biomarkers, liver composition, and changes in intestinal microbiota) was revealed. Total serum cholesterol level increased 1.8 times in animals consuming cholesterol with a simultaneous increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (2 times) and decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.3 times) levels compared to the control animals. These animals had 1.3 times increased liver weight, almost 5 times increased triglycerides level, and more than 6 times increased cholesterol content. There was a tendency towards a decrease in triglycerides levels against the background of running exercise. The consumption of cholesterol led to a predominance of the Bacteroides family, due to a decrease in F. prausnitzii (1.2 times) and bifidobacteria (1.3 times), as well as an increase in Escherichia family (1.2 times). The running exercise did not lead to the complete normalization of microbiota.

Antidyslipidemic effect of ethanol extract of &lt;i&gt;Irvingia wombolu&lt;/i&gt; seeds in high fat diet induced dyslipidemic rat

The antidyslipidemic activity of Irvingia wombolu ethanol seeds extract was studied in high fat diet induced dyslipidemic rats.Forty five (45) Wstar rats were grouped into 5 groups of 9 rats each. The animals were allowed 7 days acclimatization period. Group 1 was the control group and it received normal rat chow and water throughout the study. Groups 2 to 5 were given high fat diet for 14 days after which they were given normal rat chow till the end of the study. At the end of the 14 days, group 2 was not treated while group 3-5 were treated with 250, 500 and 1000mg/kg b.w ethanol extract of Irvingia wombolu seeds respectively for 28 days. The lipid profile of animals was evaluated three times: first after 14 days induction period (phase 1) i.e day 0 of treatment, second was taken 14 days after treatment (phase 2), third was taken 28 days after treatment (phase 3). The study lasted for 49 days and dimethyl sulphoxide was used as a vehicle for the extract. In phase 1, all the groups fed with high fat diet showed an increase in low density lipoprotein (LDL) triglyceride, total cholesterol and a decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. In phase 2 there was a decrease in LDL, triglyceride and total cholesterol level in addition to increase in HDL for animals in all the treatment groups. It was observed that in phase 3 only 250mg/kg group showed a progressive decrease in LDL, triglyceride, total cholesterol and an increase in HDL levels while 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w showed an increase in LDL, triglyceride and total cholesterol level and a decrease in HDL. The result of the present study demonstrated the antidyslipidemic effect of ethanol extract of Irvingia wombolu seeds at lower dose.

Effect of dietary Arthrospira platensis phycocyanin on broiler chicken growth performance, physiological status, fatty and amino acid profiles.

Natural antioxidants are crucial for preserving and enhancing the health, survival, reproduction, and reproductive function of poultry. Phycocyanin (PC) is a natural blue food colorant with various health benefits. The aim of this study was to extract Arthrospira platensis phycocyanin (ApPC) from A. platensis using simple and economical methods and investigate the impact of phytocyanin supplementation on the performance and fatty and amino acid profiles of broiler chicks. PC was extracted from A. platensis by freezing and thawing, and optimization conditions such as pH and temperature were applied during storage periods. A total of 270 1-week-old Ross breed broiler chicks were randomly assigned to the following three treatment groups: basal diet supplemented with 0 mg of PC/kg diet (control), basal diet supplemented with 1 g PC/kg diet (T1), and basal diet supplemented with 2 g PC/kg (T2). In a completely randomized design, three cage replicates (30 birds each) were assigned to each of the three groups. The dietary effects of ApPC on growth performance (body weight gain [BWG], body weight [BW], feed intake, feed conversion ratio, serum constituents, and antioxidant indices) in broiler chickens, free amino acids, and fatty acids in muscles were evaluated. Total BWG and BW increased without a significant effect on the total feed consumption. Serum levels of total proteins and albumin increased with increasing ApPC supplementation. In addition, globulin levels significantly increased. There was a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol levels among the treatments. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and total antioxidant capacity) is significantly increased. In contrast, an increase in ApPC caused a significant decrease in malondialdehyde. The content and quantity of fatty acids and amino acids in the meat of broiler chicks supplemented with PC varies. The addition of PC to broiler chicken diets enhances antioxidant activities, BW, BWG, and meets quality requirements.

Development and assessment of nano drug delivery systems for combined delivery of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe.

Worldwide, cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death, which accordingly increased by hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia therapy can include lifestyle changes and medications to control cholesterol levels. Statins are the medications of the first choice for dealing with lipid abnormalities. Rosuvastatin founds to control high lipid levels by hindering liver production of cholesterol and to achieve the targeted levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, another lipid lowering agents named ezetimibe may be used as an added therapy. Both rosuvastatin and ezetimibe have low bioavailability which will stand as barrier to decrease cholesterol levels, because of such depictions, formulations of this combined therapy in nanotechnology will be of a great assistance. Our study demonstrated preparations of nanoparticles of this combined therapy, showing their physical characterizations, and examined their behavior in laboratory conditions and vivo habitation. The mean particle size was uniform, polydispersity index and zeta potential of formulations were found to be in the ranges of (0.181-0.72) and (-13.4 to -6.24), respectively. Acceptable limits of entrapment efficiency were affirmed with appearance of spherical and uniform nanoparticles. In vitro testing showed a sustained release of drug exceeded 90% over 24 h. In vivo study revealed an enhanced dissolution and bioavailability from loaded nanoparticles, which was evidenced by calculated pharmacokinetic parameters using triton for hyperlipidemia induction. Stability studies were performed and assured that the formulations are kept the same up to one month. Therefore, nano formulations is a suitable transporter for combined therapy of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe with improvement in their dissolution and bioavailability.