Decreased Plasma Total Cholesterol Research Articles

Effect of chronic apple consumption (Malus domestica Borkh.) on the lipid profile of adults with dyslipidemia: a systematic review

Aim: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) are among the main causes of death worldwide and dyslipidemias account for one of the risk factors for these diseases. Habitual apple consumption appears to be inversely associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Then, this systematic review aims to investigate the effect of chronic apple consumption on the lipid profile of adults with dyslipidemia. Methods: A systematic search was performed in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus, without restriction of year of publication. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials in humans that investigated the effect of chronic consumption of whole fresh or dried apple, for a period longer than two weeks of intervention on the lipid profile. Results: Based on the methodology used and following the pre-established search strategies, 4,468 articles were found. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, five articles were selected for qualitative evaluation, covering 522 adult participants of both sexes. Three randomized controlled trials included in this review demonstrated that there was a decrease in plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) concentrations, in addition to an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) concentration. Two other studies found different results. Low risk of bias was identified in three studies. Conclusions: The analysis of the studies indicates that the consumption of fresh and/or dried apples with the peel has a beneficial effect on the lipid profile of adults, with a decrease in TC and LDL-c. These effects may be related to polyphenols and soluble fibers, among other functional compounds present in this fruit.

Abstract 18666: SR-BI and Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A Novel Pathway for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Therapeutic Development

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the U.S., where coronary artery disease (CAD) accounts for 42.1% of all CVD deaths. Current therapeutics focus on lowering LDL-C, as previous attempts to raise HDL-C were not successful in altering CVD outcomes. However, the therapeutic potential of HDL has not been fully explored. Variants in SCARB1, the gene that encodes HDL receptor Scavenger Receptor B1 (SR-BI), are associated with dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD), and we first to identified Mendelian inheritance of SCARB1 variants that cause severe early-onset CAD and dyslipidemia. Limited clinical evidence suggests imatinib reduces total cholesterol in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Additionally, TKI treatment in atherosclerotic mice reduced total cholesterol (imatinib) and atherosclerotic lesions (dasatinib). Yet, no data is available on the effects of TKIs on HDL and RCT. Hypothesis: Our findings suggest that HDL function (vs. HDL-C concentration) in reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) may be a promising target for cholesterol-based therapy and studying TKIs in RCT may provide a novel mechanism for therapeutic development. Methods: We performed a high throughput drug screen with 788 FDA-approved compounds, using HepG2 cells to measure endogenous HDL binding. We identified four compounds that significantly increased HDL binding, of which, imatinib was the only one to increase SR-BI. Wildtype C57Bl/6 mice on a high fat, high cholesterol diet, underwent imatinib treatment for 4 weeks and measured biweekly serum lipids. Results: We have found that imatinib and dasatinib significantly enhance HDL binding, where imatinib increased SR-BI, ABCA1, and ABCG1 in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo imatinib treatment decreased plasma total cholesterol, HDL-C and triglyceride levels, and elevated hepatic SR-BI. Knockdown of SR-BI in HepG2 cells ameliorated the imatinib-induced HDL binding increase suggesting an SR-BI-specific mechanism. Mass spectrometry revealed a novel SR-BI methionine oxidation site with imatinib treatment. Conclusions: Our data supports the exploration of TKI-mediated SR-B1 regulation, HDL metabolism, and RCT mechanism to identify new therapeutic targets for dyslipidemia and ASCVD.

Effects of dietary dihydromyricetin on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune response and intestinal microbiota of shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

A 56-day culture trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary dihydromyricetin (DMY) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune response and intestinal microbiota of shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). 840 healthy shrimp (1.60 ± 0.21 g) in total were fed with four different levels of DMY diets at 0 (Control), 100 (D1), 200 (D2), and 300 (D3) mg/kg, respectively. Samples were collected after the culture trial, and then, a 7-day challenge experiment against Vibrio parahaemolyticus was conducted. The results demonstrated that DMY significantly enhanced the activity of protease, amylase and lipase as well as the expression of lipid and protein transport-related genes (P < 0.05). The results of plasma lipid parameters indicated that DMY reduced lipid deposition, manifested by significantly (P < 0.05) decreased plasma total cholesterol (T-CHO), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The expression of genes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation and triglyceride catabolism was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05), and genes involved in triglyceride synthesis were significantly down-regulated in DMY groups when compared to control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, dietary DMY also significantly (P < 0.05) increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), antioxidant enzymes activity and glutathione (GSH) content of shrimp, and a significant increase of total hemocytes count (THC), phagocytic rate (PR), antibacterial activity (AA) and bacteriolytic activity (BA) was observed in DMY groups (P < 0.05). The addition of DMY to the diet significantly augmented immune response by up-regulating the expression of genes related to toll-like receptors (Toll) signaling pathway, immune deficiency (IMD) signaling pathway and intestinal mucin. Furthermore, dietary DMY could modulate the composition and abundance of intestinal microbiota. In conclusion, DMY showed promising potential as a functional feed additive for shrimp to improve the growth performance and physiological health.

VACUOLAR H+-ATPASE AS A NOVEL TARGET TO LOWER LOW DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN CHOLESTEROL

Objective: Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) is cleared from the circulation through binding to the hepatic LDL receptor (LDLR). The (pro)renin receptor [(P)RR, also known as vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) accessory protein 2 or ATP6AP2)] is a regulator of this process. Indeed, (P)RR silencing markedly reduced LDLR protein abundance and thereby LDL uptake. Since V-ATPase is a multi-subunit complex (consisting of 13 subunits), in this study we evaluated the role of subunits other than the (P)RR. Design and method: siRNAs were designed against all V-ATPase subunits, transfected into HepG2 cells, and evaluated for their capacity to affect cell surface LDLR. Given that silencing subunit ATP6V1B2 upregulated LDLR most, we next designed an adeno-associated virus expressing shAtp6v1b2 and injected this into C57BL/6 mice and then investigated the effects of Atp6v1b2 knocking-down on LDL metabolism in vivo. Results: Silencing subunit ATP6V1B2 in HepG2 cells increased surface LDLR and total LDLR protein abundance by 1.5- and 2.3-fold, respectively. This was accompanied by both LDLR mRNA upregulation, suggestive for de novo protein synthesis, and enhanced LDL uptake following exposure to excess LDL. Silencing ATP6V1B2 significantly increased the mRNA levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2)-targeted genes (SQLE, HMGCR, and NPC1) as well as the nuclear SREBP2 protein level. In vivo, knocking-down Atp6v1b2 decreased plasma total cholesterol by 23%, without affecting total triglycerides. This was accompanied by LDLR upregulation in the liver, both at the mRNA and protein levels. Conclusions: The V-ATPase subunit ATP6V1B2 is an important regulator of LDLR expression. This involves the transcription factor SREBP2, and allows substantial LDL-c lowering. V-ATPase might be a novel pharmacological target to lower cholesterol.

Pulsed electric field increases the extraction yield of extra virgin olive oil without loss of its biological properties.

Pulsed electric field (PEF) has been used for improving extraction of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). However, the biological changes induced by the consumption of pulsed electric field-obtained extra virgin olive oil (PEFEVOO) have not been studied yet. EVOO oils from Empeltre variety were prepared by standard (STD) cold pressure method involving crushing of the olives, malaxation and decanting and by this procedure including an additional step of PEF treatment. Chemical analyses of EVOO oils were done. Male and female Apoe-deficient mice received diets differing in both EVOOs for 12 weeks, and their plasma, aortas and livers were analyzed. PEF application resulted in a 17% increase in the oil yield and minimal changes in chemical composition regarding phytosterols, phenolic compounds and microRNA. Only in females mice consuming PEF EVOO, a decreased plasma total cholesterol was observed, without significant changes in atherosclerosis and liver steatosis. PEF technology applied to EVOO extraction maintains the EVOO quality and improves the oil yield. The equivalent biological effects in atherosclerosis and fatty liver disease of PEF-obtained EVOO further support its safe use as a food.

A Novel, Orally Bioavailable, Small-Molecule Inhibitor of PCSK9 With Significant Cholesterol-Lowering Properties In Vivo

Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibits the clearance of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) from plasma by directly binding with the LDL receptor (LDLR) and sending the receptor for lysosomal degradation. As the interaction promotes elevated plasma LDL-C levels, and therefore a predisposition to cardiovascular disease, PCSK9 has attracted intense interest as a therapeutic target. Despite this interest, an orally bioavailable small-molecule inhibitor of PCSK9 with extensive lipid-lowering activity is yet to enter the clinic. We report herein the discovery of NYX-PCSK9i, an orally bioavailable small-molecule inhibitor of PCSK9 with significant cholesterol-lowering activity in hyperlipidemic APOE∗3-Leiden.CETP mice. NYX-PCSK9i emerged from a medicinal chemistry campaign demonstrating potent disruption of the PCSK9-LDLR interaction in vitro and functional protection of the LDLR of human lymphocytes from PCSK9-directed degradation ex vivo. APOE∗3-Leiden.CETP mice orally treated with NYX-PCSK9i demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in plasma total cholesterol of up to 57%, while its combination with atorvastatin additively suppressed plasma total cholesterol levels. Importantly, the majority of cholesterol lowering by NYX-PCSK9i was in non-HDL fractions. A concomitant increase in total plasma PCSK9 levels and significant increase in hepatic LDLR protein expression strongly indicated on-target function by NYX-PCSK9i. Determinations of hepatic lipid and fecal cholesterol content demonstrated depletion of liver cholesteryl esters and promotion of fecal cholesterol elimination with NYX-PCSK9i treatment. All measured in vivo biomarkers of health indicate that NYX-PCSK9i has a good safety profile. NYX-PCSK9i is a potential new therapy for hypercholesterolemia with the capacity to further enhance the lipid-lowering activities of statins.

Effect of Ocimum sanctum (Basil) leaf in high-fat-diet induced hyperlipidemic rat

Dyslipidemia mediated atherosclerosis is the key pathogenesis of several cardiovascular diseases. Present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Ocimum sanctum leaf consumption against high-fat-diet induced hyperlipidemia in rat model. A total of 18 Wistar albino rats (200-215 g) were randomly divided as control, HFD (hyperlipidemic) and OS-treated groups. HFD-group received high fat diet (HFD) for 15 days, OS-treated group administered with Ocimum sanctum leaf powder (200 mg / kg of bodyweight / day) together with HFD diet for 15 days. Blood samples were analyzed for changes in plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein and very-low-density lipoprotein. Plasma atherogenic index was also calculated. HFD administration significantly increase plasma lipid levels and atherogenic index in HFD-group. Ocimum sanctum supplementation significantly reduce decrease plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, lipoproteins and atherogenic index in OS-treated rats. 15 days Ocimum sanctum leaf (powder) supplementation at dose of 200 mg / kg of bodyweight / day effectively attenuates dyslipidemia in hyperlipidemic rats.

The effects of brewers’ spent grain on high-fat diet-induced fatty liver

Obesity drives nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study investigated the effects of dietary brewers’ spent grain (BSG) supplementation on obesity-induced NAFLD. Mice fed a high-fat diet supplemented with 30% BSG (HFD30) had reduced body weight and decreased plasma total cholesterol (TC) concentrations compared with HFD-fed mice. Retroperitoneal white adipose tissue (RWAT) and liver weights were reduced. Consistent with reduced hepatic triacylglycerol, TC, and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations, HFD30-fed mice showed reduced hepatic steatosis. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase and low-density lipoprotein receptor genes were increased, whereas carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 alpha, ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (Abca1), and cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase genes were upregulated in the liver of HFD30-fed mice. Abca1 gene expression was also increased in epididymal WAT and RWAT of HFD30-fed mice. BSG supplementation increased and decreased fecal fat and bile acid concentrations, respectively. Taken together, BSG supplementation reduced HFD-induced hepatic lipid accumulation by increasing fatty acid oxidation and bile acid synthesis in the liver as well as decreasing lipid absorption in the intestine.

LIPID PROFILE ESTIMATION IN ORAL MALIGNANT AND PREMALIGNANT LESIONS

Introduction: Oral malignancy is usually preceded by lesions which are non-malignant to begin with and which are therefore been termed as premalignant. Many premalignant lesions and conditions like leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus, oral submucous brosis have malignant potentials. Aims: To evaluate the serum lipid prole in premalignant lesions and conditions like Oral Leukoplakia, Oral Submucous brosis and in Oral squamous cell carcinoma and its comparison with the lipid prole among control groups. Material and method: A total number of 225 patients were selected for the study from the OPD in Chandra Dental College and Hospital, Barabanki, U.P. the patients were selected under the criteria mentioned below. Patients with clinically evident and histopathologically conrmed with oral submucous brosis, oral lichen planus, oral leukoplakia, erythoplakia, and oral malignancy, for leukoplakia patients with histopathological conrmation sample collection was done, for patients with Oral Submucous Fibrosis after histopathological conrmation, sample collection was done and for Oral Malignancy sample collection was done after histopathological conrmation were included in this study. Result: In Control Group (1 Vs 3), the mean HDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 72.9885± 8.6803. In Malignant Group (1 Vs 3), the mean HDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 38.2000± 3.5106. Distribution of mean HDL with Group (1 Vs 3) was statistically signicant (p&lt;0.0001). In Control Group (1vs3), the mean VLDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 36.8640± 3.0412. In Malignant Group (1vs3), the mean VLDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 26.1600± 1.5905. Distribution of mean VLDL with Group 1vs3 was statistically signicant (p&lt;0.0001). In Control Group1 vs3, the mean LDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 96.4448± 12.7468. In Malignant Group1 vs3, the mean LDL (mean± s.d.) of patients was 94.8000± 5.9233. Distribution of mean LDL with Group 1 Vs3 was not statistically signicant (p=0.3125). Conclusion: There was statistically signicant decrease in plasma total cholesterol, TG, LDL, VLDL and HDL observed in malignant patients as compared to the premalignant control group. The low lipid levels associated with Oral malignancy indicates that there is inverse relationship between oral cancer and serum lipid prole. Decrease in the lipid levels may be considered as a useful biochemical marker in the early diagnosis of oral malignancy.

Abstract 423: Imatinib Promotes Reverse Cholesterol Transport And Elevates Sr-bi

Dyslipidemia is a cardiovascular risk factor for coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis that is characterized by elevated serum cholesterol and lipid levels. Although high-density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol (HDL-C) is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular events, targeted therapy to increase HDL-C levels have been unsuccessful in altering outcomes of associated atherosclerotic disease. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in SCARB1 , the gene that encodes HDL receptor Scavenger Receptor B1 (SR-BI), are associated with dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. We were the first to identify inherited mutations in SCARB1 that segregate with disease in a family with severe coronary artery disease and dyslipidemia, including elevated HDL. Our findings suggest that HDL function (vs. HDL-C concentration) may be a promising target for cholesterol-based therapy. Here, we performed an unbiased high throughput drug screen with 788 FDA-approved compounds, using HepG2 cells to measure endogenous HDL binding. We identified five compounds that significantly increased endogenous HDL binding: imatinib, trimethoprim, eszopiclone, clemastine, and mepenzolate, of which, imatinib was the only compound to increase SR-BI expression. Imatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is a chemotherapeutic agent designed to treat individuals with chronic myeloid leukemia. Limited clinical evidence suggests a reduction in total cholesterol with 400mg/day imatinib. Additionally, imatinib treatment (150mg/kg) in mouse models of atherosclerosis reduces total cholesterol. Yet, no data is available on the effects of imatinib on HDL and reverse cholesterol transport. We have found that imatinib promotes HDL binding and SR-BI expression in vitro . Furthermore, in wildtype C57Bl/6 mice on a high fat, high cholesterol diet, imatinib treatment (50mg/kg) was sufficient to decrease plasma total cholesterol, HDL-C and triglyceride levels and elevate hepatic SR-BI expression. In summary, our data supports the exploration of imatinib-mediated SR-BI regulation, HDL metabolism, and RCT pathway to identify new therapeutic targets for dyslipidemia.

Lactobacillus reuteri CCFM8631 Alleviates Hypercholesterolaemia Caused by the Paigen Atherogenic Diet by Regulating the Gut Microbiota.

Cardiovascular disease has one of the highest global incidences and mortality rates. Atherosclerosis is the main cause of cardiovascular disease, and hypercholesterolaemia and hyperlipidaemia are the main risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis. Decreasing serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations is considered to be an effective strategy to prevent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Previous studies have shown that many diseases are related to gut microbiota dysbiosis. The positive regulation of the gut microbiota by probiotics may prevent or treat certain diseases. In this study, Lactobacillus reuteri CCFM8631 treatment was shown to decrease plasma total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein–cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and trimethylamine N-oxide concentrations, decrease liver TC and malondialdehyde concentrations and recover liver superoxide dismutase concentrations in mice fed a Paigen atherogenic diet. In addition, L. reuteri increased the faecal short-chain fatty acid content (acetate, propionate and butyrate), which was accompanied by an increase in the relative abundance of faecal Deferribacteres, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, Lactobacillus and Dubosiella; a decrease in the relative abundance of Erysipelatoclostridium and Romboutsia and the activation of butanoate and vitamin B6 metabolism, leading to the alleviation of hypercholesterolaemia.

Polysaccharide CM1 from Cordyceps militaris hinders adipocyte differentiation and alleviates hyperlipidemia in LDLR(+/\u2212) hamsters

BackgroundCordyceps militaris is cultured widely as an edible mushroom and accumulating evidence in mice have demonstrated that the polysaccharides of Cordyceps species have lipid-lowering effects. However, lipid metabolism in mice is significantly different from that in humans, making a full understanding of the mechanisms at play critical.MethodsAfter 5 months, the hamsters were weighed and sampled under anesthesia after overnight fasting. The lipid-lowering effect and mechanisms of the polysaccharide CM1 was investigated by cellular and molecular technologies. Furthermore, the effect of the polysaccharide CM1 (100 μg/mL) on inhibiting adipocyte differentiation was investigated in vitro.ResultsCM1, a polysaccharide from C. militaris, significantly decreased plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride and epididymal fat index in LDLR(+/−) hamsters, which have a human-like lipid profile. After 5 months’ administration, CM1 decreased the plasma level of apolipoprotein B48, modulated the expression of key genes and proteins in liver, small intestine, and epididymal fat. CM1 also inhibited preadipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells by downregulating the key genes involved in lipid droplet formation.ConclusionsThe polysaccharide CM1 lowers lipid and adipocyte differentiation by several pathways, and it has potential applications for hyperlipidemia prevention.

Effect of adding soy lecithin, xylanase and their combination to low energy diet on carcass traits, meat quality, and some blood parameters of broiler chicks.

This study investigated the synergism relationship between lecithin (L) and xylanase (Xyl.) enzyme when applied to low dietary metabolizable energy (ME) on broilers carcass, meat quality and some blood parameters. 160 chicks randomly were allocated to 5 treatments, each of 32 birds (4 replicates of 8 birds each). The 1st group; chicks were fed basal diet without studied supplementation (control). In 2nd group, chicks were fed low ME diet (-150Kcal / kg lower than NRC,1994 recommendation) and labeled as NC. In 3rd, 4th and 5th groups, chicks were fed NC supplied with 0.5g lecithin (NC + 0.5g L), 0.2g xylanase (NC + 0.2g Xyl) and 0.5g lecithin + 0.2g xylanase (NC +0.5g L + 0.2g Xyl), respectively. The growth trail lasted 35 days. The obtained results show that group of NC + 0.2g Xyl recorded significant increase in carcass %. The lowest meat total saturated fatty acids, total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride were achieved for group of NC + 0.5g lecithin. Moreover, both NC + 0.5g L and NC +0.5g L + 0.2g Xyl recorded a significant decrease in plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL also, increase in plasma HDL compared to control. In conclusion, addition of 0.5g lecithin alone or in a combination with 0.2g xylanase to broilers fed low-energy diet is more effective in carcass, meat quality and blood plasma lipid profile.

Assessment of biochemical changes in normal and diabetic rats treated by phenolic enriched extracts of Juglans regia L. barks.

Juglans regia L. is largely used by diabetic population, but its bark is scarcely investigated. The major aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the hydro-methanolic extract and fractions of J.regia L. barks on normoglycemic and diabetic rats through the evaluation of some biochemical parameters. Phenolic enriched extracts were investigated for their effect on normoglycemic and diabetic rats through the determination of fasting blood glucose levels in short- and long-term. As well as plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin, urea, creatinine, alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) levels were measured after 28days of treatment. Furthermore, the phytochemical composition was assessed by standard methods. Among the different extracts tested, the n-Butanol fraction presented the highest amounts of total phenolic, total flavonoids and flavonol contents (745±0.6mgGAEg-1, 162±0.78mgCEg-1 and 56.02±0.92mgQEg-1, respectively) and it found to be themost effective to decrease plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and FGLs in treated diabetic rats in both short- and long-term treatment, mainly the dose 200mg/kg after 28days of treatment which found to be more effective than glibenclamide. This fraction also revealed pronounced improvement in liver and renal profiles. J.regia L. barks had an important antidiabetic role similar to the reference glibenclamide. This may be related to the high contents of phenolic compounds.

Phytochemical analysis and bioactivity evaluation of Moroccan Thymus atlanticus (Ball) fractions

This study aims to evaluate the effect of polar and less polar fractions of Thymus atlanticus (T. atlanticus) on inflammation and hyperlipidemia in animal models, and on coagulation and lipid peroxidation in vitro. Polar and less polar fractions of T. atlanticus were analyzed by HPLC and their antioxidant activities were evaluated using different in vitro methods. The anti-inflammatory effect was tested using arachidonic acid and xylene-induced inflammation tests in animal models. Acute hyperlipidemia was induced in mice by an intraperitoneal injection of Triton WR-1339. After 24h, plasma was collected to analyze lipid profile. The effect of the fractions and heparin on coagulation of the rabbit blood was explored in vitro by partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time and thrombin time tests. The results indicated that rosmarinic acid was the main phenolic acid. All fractions significantly protected plasma lipids against oxidation. The ethyl acetate fraction significantly inhibited inflammation induced by arachidonic and xylene in mice and rat, respectively. The administration of fractions at a dose of 2 g/kg body weight markedly decreased plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-C but only the aqueous fraction increased the level of HDL-C in hyperlipidemic mice. The blood coagulation was completely inhibited even at very low concentration of fractions (280 µg/mL of plasma). T. atlanticus could be a source of potential lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory compounds.

In vitro and in vivo hypolipidemic properties of the aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis, cultivated in colored flasks under artificial illumination.

BackgroundSpirulina is blue-green algae that grows mainly in tropical and subtropical lakes and is commonly used due to its nutritional features including high concentrations of protein, vitamins, mineral salts, carotenoids and antioxidants. This study aimed to investigate the anti-hypercholesterolemic potential of aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis cultivated in different colored flasks under artificial illumination; in vitro and in the diet induced hypercholesterolemic Swiss albino mice.MethodsSpirulina platensis was cultivated in red, blue, green and colorless Erlenmeyer flasks containing Zarrouk’s medium under aerobic conditions, with incessant illumination by artificial cool white fluorescent with light intensity of 2500 lux (35 µmol photon m−2 s−1). Chlorophyll a and total carotenoid contents were estimated using colorimetric methods, fatty acids composition was determined by GC-Mass, in vitro and in vivo anti-cholesterol assays were used in assessing the anti-hypercholesterolemia potential of obtained Spirulina cells.ResultsThe results showed that the highest cell dry weight, chlorophyl a, and carotenoid of S. platensis were observed in colorless flasks and that the lowest values were recorded with the green colored flasks. Also, the hot water extract of S. platensis obtained from colorless flasks at a concentration of 15 mg/mL after 60 min of incubation exhibited the greatest reduction of cholesterol level. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of S. platensis methanolic extract showed 15 bioactive compounds were identified and grouped according to their chemical structures. An experimental model of hypercholesterolemic mice had been examined for impact of S. platensis individually and combined with atorvastatin drug. All S. platensis groups resulted in a remarkable decrease in plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein; and increase in high density lipoprotein.ConclusionThe present study concluded that the hot aqueous extract of S. platensis developed in colorless flasks is recommended as a natural source for bioactive compounds, with anti-cholesterol and antioxidant potentialities.

Pectin and mango pulp both reduce plasma cholesterol in pigs but have different effects on triglycerides and bile acids

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms of action of pectin as an extract (from apple) and as a major part of fruit pulp (mango) on plasma lipids and bile acids (BA). Pigs were used as a model for humans, and were divided into three groups (n = 10) fed a Control, pectin extract (Pectin) or mango pulp (Mango) diet for 28 d. Plasma samples were taken at the beginning (D0) and at days 15 (D15) and 28 (D28) when digesta samples were also collected from different segments of the small intestine. At D28, compared to the Control, Pectin significantly decreased plasma total cholesterol (TC, 18.0%, P < 0.01) and LDL-C (17.2%, P < 0.05) and increased total BA (TBA; 4.1 μmol/L; P < 0.05). Mango decreased TC (9.5%, P < 0.05). Pectin significantly increased intestinal TBA (P < 0.01), decreased total neutral sterols (TNS) including cholesterol (P < 0.05), decreased fatty acid digestibility (P < 0.01) and decreased plasma triglycerides (TG, 28.5%, P < 0.01). However, Mango significantly increased plasma TG (31.1% P < 0.05) and intestinal TNS (P < 0.05). The increases in intestinal and plasma TBA with the Pectin but not Mango, suggests that the mechanism(s) by which pectin-rich components cause plasma TC, LDL-C and TG reduction differ for soluble and particulate forms. Furthermore, the prebiotic properties of both forms of pectin were shown to include changes in the BA profiles, with significant increases in the therapeutic BA, ursodesoxycholic acid (UDCA).

The efficiency of synthetic polymers to ameliorate the adverse effects of Aflatoxin on plasma biochemistry, immune responses, and hepatic genes expression in ducklings

To evaluate the effect of molecularly imprinted polymers as a synthetic polymer (TMU95) and commercial toxin binder (CTB) on aflatoxins (AFs) toxic effects on hepatic gene expression, and the biochemical and immunological parameters in ducklings, 240 four-day-old ducklings were randomly allocated into six groups with four replicates of 10 ducklings per each. The experimental groups were as follows: Negative control (basal diet without any additive or AFs), Negative control + TMU95 (5 g/kg feed), Negative control + CTB (Zarinbinder, Vivan Group, Mashhad, Iran. 5 g/kg feed), Positive control (0.2 mg AFs/kg feed), Positive control + TMU95 (5 g/kg feed), and Positive control + CTB (5 g/kg feed). On day 14, livers were collected (8 per treatment) to evaluate change in the expression of genes involved in AFs biotransformation (cytochrome P450 1A1 and 2H1) and antioxidant function (glutathione S-transferase). Several biochemical biomarkers and immune responses were also recorded. Compared with the negative control group AFs treatment significantly decreased plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride and increased the aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (P ≤ 0.01). Cellular immune responses to the phytohemagglutinin-and 2, 4-dinitro 1-chlorobenzene skin test were significantly influenced by dietary aflatoxins (P ≤ 0.01) but a humoral immune response to Newcastle disease virus/vaccine was not affected (P ≥ 0.01). Compared with negative control group, the genes associated with AFs biotransformation were downregulated, whereas the gene associated with the antioxidant function was upregulated in birds fed AFs. The CTB supplement in contaminated feed could alleviate AFs adverse effects on cellular immunity, ALT concentration, and cytochrome P450 2H1 gene expression partially, whereas TMU95 could not ameliorate the adverse effects of AFs on the traits studied, except for ALP. The data suggest that TMU95 may alleviate some of the toxic effects of aflatoxins in duckling and it might prove to be beneficial in the reduction of aflatoxicosis adverse effect in poultry when used in combination with other aflatoxin management practices.

Saskatoon Berry Amelanchier alnifolia Regulates Glucose Metabolism and Improves Cardiovascular and Liver Signs of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats.

Saskatoon berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a potential functional food containing anthocyanins and flavonols, as well as ellagitannins and phenolic acids. We have determined the potential therapeutic effects of Saskatoon berry in diet-induced metabolic syndrome. Nine- to ten-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups. Two groups were fed on control diets, either corn starch (C) or high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet (H) respectively, for 16 weeks. Two further groups were fed on C or H diet for 16 weeks with Saskatoon berry powder added to the diet for the final 8 weeks (CSSK, HSSK). After 16 weeks, H rats showed symptoms of metabolic syndrome, including increased body weight, visceral adiposity, systolic blood pressure, cardiac fibrosis, plasma concentrations of triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids, and plasma activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase. Saskatoon berry intervention normalised body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, decreased systolic blood pressure, improved heart and liver structure and function with decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells, and decreased plasma total cholesterol. Further, Saskatoon berry normalised liver expression of hexokinase 1 and glycogen phosphorylase and increased glucose 6-phosphatase relative to H rats. These results suggest that Saskatoon berry regulates glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis to improve metabolic syndrome.

Green Tea Powder Decreased Egg Weight Through Increased Liver Lipoprotein Lipase and Decreased Plasma Total Cholesterol in an Indigenous Chicken Breed.

Simple SummaryTons of green tea powder (GTP) are produced and cast off during green tea processing. It is suggested that GTP could increase immunity and health, and so improve animal production performance. We demonstrated that one percent of GTP supplemented in the diet did not affect egg production. However, long time GTP inclusion resulted in decreased egg weight and increased feed-to-egg ratio. Combined with plasma lipid concentration, the decreased egg weight might be because of lower plasma lipid concentration, increased plasma orexin A, and liver lipoprotein lipase expression in chickens fed a diet containing GTP.Whether or not green tea promotes egg production is unclear. Huainan partridge chickens at 20 weeks of age were divided into two groups, with one group fed a basal diet (control) and one fed a basal diet plus 10 g/kg green tea powder (GTP) for 12 weeks. Egg production (EP) and feed intake (FI) were recorded daily. Plasma lipid parameters, and apolipoprotein-B (Apo-B), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) expression were determined every four weeks. Egg production and FI showed no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). Egg weight was 47.58 g in the control group, which was higher than that of the GTP group, and the feed-to-egg ratio (FCR) was 4.62 in the control group, which was lower than that of the GTP group after 12 weeks feeding. Compared with the control group, plasma orexin A (p < 0.05), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), apolipoprotein A (Apo A), and very high-density lipoprotein (VHDL) (p < 0.01, respectively) were increased. Plasma glucose (Glu), free fatty acid (FFA), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.01, respectively), and low density lipoprotein (LDL) (p < 0.05) were decreased in the GTP group after 8 weeks feeding. The LPL expression in the liver was increased in the GTP group after 8 to 12 weeks feeding when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Chickens fed GTP did not affect EP, but decreased egg weight, which might be because of lower plasma lipid concentration, increased plasma Orexin A, and liver LPL expression.