Essential Trace Mineral Research Articles

Thyroid function in patients with selenium deficiency exhibits high free T4 to T3 ratio.

.Selenium, one of the essential trace minerals, is present in vivo in form of selenoproteins. Iodothyronine deiodinase, a selenoprotein, is involved in the activation and inactivation of thyroid hormone. Therefore, patients with selenium deficiency may present changes in thyroid hormone levels due to inhibition of T4 to T3 conversion; however, this assumption is still under debate. In the present study, we retrospectively investigated the thyroid function in 22 patients with selenium deficiency. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 (FT4) levels were increased in 3 (14%) and 5 (23%) patients, respectively, and free T3 (FT3) levels were decreased in 6 (27%) patients. The FT4/FT3 ratio was significantly higher in patients with selenium deficiency than that in the control group. There appeared to be a positive correlation between the decreased rate of selenium levels and FT4/FT3 ratio, thereby indicating that patients with severe selenium deficiency also exhibited abnormal thyroid hormone levels. Furthermore, when selenium was supplemented in seven patients with abnormal thyroid hormone levels, the TSH, FT4, and FT4/FT3 ratio were significantly decreased and FT3 levels were increased. Collectively, patients with selenium deficiency could present the characteristics of not only low FT3 but also high FT4 and FT4/FT3 ratio.

Copper nutrition and biochemistry and human (patho)physiology.

The essential trace mineral copper plays important roles in human physiology and pathophysiology. Disruption of copper homeostasis may underlie the development of ischemic heart disease, and connective tissue and neurodegenerative disorders. Copper also likely participates in the host response to bacterial infection and is further implicated more broadly in regulating immunity. Recent studies further associate copper with disruption of lipid homeostasis, as is frequently seen in, for example, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Moreover, continuing investigation of copper chaperones has revealed new roles for these intracellular copper-binding proteins. Despite these (and many other) significant advances, many questions related to copper biology remain unanswered. For example, what are the most sensitive and specific biomarkers of copper status, and which ones are useful in marginal (or "sub-clinical" copper deficiency)? Further research on this topic is required to inform future investigations of copper metabolism in humans (so the copper status of study participants can be fully appreciated). Also, are current recommendations for copper intake adequate? Recent studies suggest that overt copper deficiency is more common than once thought, and further, some have suggested that the copper RDAs for adults may be too low. Additional human balance and interventional studies are necessary and could provide the impetus for reconsidering the copper RDAs in the future. These and myriad other unresolved aspects of copper nutrition will undoubtedly be the focus of future investigation.

Correlations between Basal Trace Minerals and Hormones in Middle and Long-Distance High-Level Male Runners.

Several essential trace minerals play an important role in the endocrine system; however, toxic trace minerals have a disruptive effect. The aim of this research was to determine basal concentrations and the possible correlations between trace minerals in plasma and several plasma hormones in runners. Sixty high-level male endurance runners (21 ± 3 years; 1.77 ± 0.05 m; 64.97 ± 7.36 kg) participated in the present study. Plasma hormones were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and plasma trace minerals were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Correlations and simple linear regression were used to assess the association between trace minerals and hormones. Plasma testosterone concentrations were inversely correlated with manganese (r = −0.543; β = −0.410; p < 0.01), selenium (r = −0.292; β = −0.024; p < 0.05), vanadium (r = −0.406; β = −1.278; p < 0.01), arsenic (r = −0.336; β = −0.142; p < 0.05), and lead (r = −0.385; β = −0.418; p < 0.01). Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were positively correlated with arsenic (r = 0.298; β = 0.327; p < 0.05) and cesium (r = 0.305; β = 2.272; p < 0.05), and negatively correlated with vanadium (r = −0.303; β = −2.467; p < 0.05). Moreover, cortisol concentrations showed significant positive correlations with cadmium (r = 0.291; β = 209.01; p < 0.05). Finally, insulin concentrations were inversely related to vanadium (r = −0.359; β = −3.982; p < 0.05). In conclusion, endurance runners living in areas with high environmental levels of toxic minerals should check their concentrations of anabolic hormones.

Effects of Selenium- and Zinc-Enriched Lactobacillus plantarum SeZi on Antioxidant Capacities and Gut Microbiome in an ICR Mouse Model.

Selenium and zinc are essential trace minerals for humans with various biological functions. In this study, selenium- and zinc-tolerant lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were screened out from human fecal samples. Amongst three hundred LAB isolates, the Lactobacillus plantarum SeZi strain displayed the tolerance against selenium and zinc with the greatest biomass production and bioaccumulation of selenium and zinc. To further assess the characteristics of this strain, the lyophilized L. plantarum SeZi were prepared and administered to Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. The mice were divided into four groups, provided with normal chow (Con), or normal chow supplemented with Na2SeO3 and ZnSO4∙7H2O (SZ), L. plantarum SeZi (Lp), or selenium- and zinc-enriched L. plantarum SeZi (SZ + Lp), respectively. After 4 weeks of oral administration, the concentrations of selenium and zinc in blood were significantly increased in the SZ + Lp group when compared to the control or SZ group (p < 0.05). The increased selenium level led to an enhanced glutathione peroxidase activity and decreased blood malondialdehyde level in the SZ + Lp group (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the results of bacterial community and microbial metabolic pathway analysis via 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that L. plantarum SeZi significantly promoted the utilization of selenocysteine, seleno-cystathionine and seleno-methionine in the selenocompounds metabolism. Here, the in vivo antioxidant capacities of the selenium- and zinc-enriched lactobacillus strain showed us the utilization of a unique probiotic as a Se/Zn supplement with high availability, low toxicity, and additional probiotic advantages.

Relationship Between Elevated Hair Mercury Levels, Essential Element Status, and Metabolic Profile in Overweight and Obese Adults.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate hair essential and trace element levels and metabolic risk markers in overweight and obese subjects in relation to body mercury burden. According to 2 × 2 factorial design a total of 440 adults were distributed to four groups: (i) low-Hg normal-weight subjects (n = 114); (ii) high-Hg normal weight subjects (n = 113); (iii) low-Hg overweight (BMI > 25) subjects (n = 110); (iv) high-Hg overweight (BMI > 25) subjects (n = 110). Hg-exposed groups consisted of subjects characterized by frequent seafood consumption (> 4 times/week) subsequently evaluated by hair analysis (> 0.58μg/g). Dietary-exposed subjects were characterized by a more than 3-fold higher hair Hg content irrespectively of body weight values. Both low-Hg and high-Hg overweight subjects were characterized by significantly higher ALT activity, as well as elevated serum glucose, LDL, and triglyceride levels as compared to the respective groups of normal weight subjects. High Hg body burden had a more significant effect on metabolic parameters in overweight and obese adults. Particularly, high-Hg overweight subjects were characterized by significantly higher serum creatinine and uric acid levels, as well as increased GGT and CK activity as compared to low-Hg overweight counterparts. In addition, hair Mg, Mn, and Sr content in high-Hg overweight subjects was significantly lower than that in low-Hg normal weight and overweight examinees. In turn, high Hg levels in overweight subjects were associated with significantly higher hair Se and Zn levels when compared to unexposed overweight adults. Generally, the obtained data demonstrate that increased hair Hg levels in overweight and obese subjects is associated with adverse metabolic profile. It is proposed that observed metabolic alterations may be at least partially mediated by Hg-associated disturbances in essential trace element and mineral metabolism.

Effect of Minerals on Markers of Risk of Pre-Eclampsia in Pregnant Women: A Hospital Based Study

Introduction: Pregnancy specific complication characterised by hypertension, proteinuria, after 20 weeksof the gestation, and along with various signs of damage to organ systems, haemolysis, elevated levels ofliver enzymes and low platelet count (HELLP syndrome) is collectively termed as eclampsia.Method: Cross-sectional study with 3 groups of pregnant women, were taken followed by inclusion andexclusion criteria for characterisation. The study was approved by ethical board of DMIMSU. Mineralsand their relationship were estimated using different method. Preeclamptic group with and withoutsupplementation and pregnant women without preeclampsia were included in the study. Significantdifferences were seen in Na+, K+, Ca, Mg, Se, and Mn when compared with each group.Result and Observation: The levels of K were increased significantly (P &lt; 0.001) in pre-eclamptic groupas compared to control group. There was significant change in levels of Mn when pre-eclamptic groupwas compared to control. Mn was also found to decrease significantly (P &lt; 0.001) in cases as compared tocontrol. However, the levels of Se, Mg, Ca and Na between cases and control were not highly significant. Insupplementation and without supplementation group, Significant differences were seen in levels of Na, K,Ca and very significant difference was seen in levels of Mn. (p&lt;0.0001).Conclusion: Pre-eclamptic pregnant women have higher levels of serum potassium and our finding on Mn,an essential trace mineral, provides new insight into a potentially modifiable way to prevent preeclampsia.In multi-ethnic, predominantly urban and low-income pregnant women high level of Mn is associated withpre-eclampsia.

Comparative effects of zinc oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticle as feed additives on growth, feed choice test, tissue residues, and histopathological changes in broiler chickens.

Zinc is an essential nutritional trace mineral required for growth and health. The aim of the current work is to compare the effects of bulk zinc oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on the growth performance, feeding behavior, and zinc residues in tissues with the associated histopathological alterations in chicken. Meanwhile, the antibacterial activity against the isolated E. coli O78 strain was evaluated. Ninety Hubbard one-day-aged broiler chicks were divided into 3 groups, 30 each: birds of the 1st group fed a basal ration, those of the 2nd group fed a ration containing zinc oxide at a dose of 3000mg/kg diet, and chicks of the 3rd group are given a ration containing ZnO-NPs at a dose of 90mg/kg diet from 2 to 20days age. The experiment lasted for 35days. Feed choice test was done at the 3rd week of age on another 12 birds. Results revealed that birds fed with ZnO-NPs showed an improvement in body weight compared with the zinc oxide-administered group. There was no reluctance from birds to both diets supplemented with either zinc oxide or ZnO-NPs, with a constant preference to ZnO-NPs diet throughout the 5-min test. The highest levels of zinc were detected in the livers, kidneys, lungs, and muscles in the 1st day following cessation of drug administration. There was no significant effect on the levels of creatinine, uric acid, AST, and ALT. Mild to moderate degenerative changes as well as necrosis could be detected in the livers and hearts following both treatments. In conclusion, nano-zinc oxide could be practically used in broiler feed at a dose of 90mg/kg diet instead of bulk zinc oxide, at a dose of 3000mg/kg diet, with an improved body weight. Both supplements caused no significant effects on serum parameters and had the same antibacterial activity against E. coli O78.

Selenium status is independently related to bone mineral density, FRAX score, and bone fracture history: NHANES, 2013 to 2014.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral element for humans. Although previous in vitro and animal studies have reported the vital role of selenium in bone, the results of the relationship between the selenium status and bone health were inconsistent in epidemiological studies. The risk of selenium deficiency is negligible for U.S. general population, however, the relationship between selenium status and bone health has never been surveyed in a nationally representative sample. In this study, we analyzed the data of 2983 adults (aged ≥40years) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2014 to investigate the association among three markers of the selenium status (measured from whole blood, serum, and dietary intake), total spine and femur bone mineral density (BMD), and FRAX scores, and history of bone fractures. We found a one-unit increase in the ln-whole-blood selenium level was correlated with an increase in the total femur BMD of 0.064g/cm2 (S.E. = 0.025; P=0.022) in all participants and 0.086g/cm2 (S.E. = 0.031; P=0.013) in menopausal women. Additionally, a one-unit increase in the ln-selenium intake amount was associated with an increase in the total femur BMD of 0.014g/cm2 (S.E. = 0.007; P=0.043) in all participants. We also found that the dietary and whole-blood selenium statuses were negatively associated with the FRAX score, while levels of all the three selenium biomarkers were negatively associated with a history of bone fractures. In conclusion, increased selenium status is correlated with an increased total femur BMD, decreased FRAX scores, and a reduced incidence of previous bone fractures in the U.S. representative survey of adults. Further study is warranted to clarify the causal inference.

Zinc supplementation combined with antidepressant drugs for treatment of patients with depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Zinc is an essential trace mineral required for the function of brain and neural structures. The role of zinc supplementation in the prevention and treatment of depression has been suggested in clinical studies that reported a reduction in depressive symptoms. The aim of this review was to determine whether zinc supplementation vs placebo can prevent or improve depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults. Five electronic databases were searched, and studies published until September 2019 were included without language restriction. Randomized, controlled, crossover trials that evaluated the effect of zinc supplementation vs a comparator for prevention or improvement of depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults were eligible for inclusion. Two authors independently performed data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment. The initial search identified 12 322 studies, 5 of which were eligible for meta-analysis. The standardized mean difference (SMD) showed an average reduction of 0.36 point (95%CI, -0.67 to -0.04) in the intervention group compared with the placebo group. Forstudies in which the mean age of participants was ≥ 40years, the SMD was reduced by 0.61 point (95%CI, -1.12 to -0.09) in the intervention group vs the placebo group. The meta-analysis by sample size (< 60 individuals and ≥ 60 individuals) did not show an effect of zinc supplementation in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD -0.28; 95%CI, -0.67 to -0.10; and SMD -0.52; 95%CI, -1.10 to 0.06). Zinc supplementation may reduce depressive symptoms in individuals treated with antidepressant drugs for clinical depression. PROSPERO registration number CRD42018081691.

Mineral and Trace Element Analysis of Australian/Queensland Apis mellifera Honey.

Honey is an extensively utilized sweetener containing sugars and water, together with small quantities of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and proteins. Naturally produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) from floral nectar, honey is increasingly sold as a health food product due to its nutritious features. Certain honeys are retailed as premium, trendy products. Honeybees are regarded as environmental monitors, but few reports examine the impact of environment on Australian honey trace elements and minerals. In higher density urban and industrial environments, heavy metals can be common, while minerals and trace elements can have ubiquitous presence in both agricultural and urban areas. Honey hives are traditionally placed in rural and forested areas, but increasingly the trend is to keep hives in more urban areas. This study aimed to determine the levels of 26 minerals and trace elements and assess elemental differences between honeys from various regional Queensland and Australian sources. Honey samples (n = 212) were acquired from markets, shops and supermarkets in Queensland while urban honeys were purchased online. The honey samples were classified into four groups according to their regional sources: urban, rural, peri-urban and blend honey. Elemental analyses of honey were performed using ICP-MS and ICP-OES after microwave and hot block digestion. Considerable variations of essential trace elements (Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Mo and Zn) and mineral levels (Ca, K, Mg, Na and P) were found in honeys surveyed. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between urban and rural honey samples for B, Na, P, Mn, K, Ca and Cu. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were also found between blend and urban honey samples for K, Cu, P, Mn, Sr, Ni, B and Na. Peri-urban versus urban honeys showed significant differences in P, K and Mn. For rural and peri-urban honeys, the only significant difference (p < 0.05) was for Na. Toxic heavy metals were detected at relatively low levels in honey products. The study revealed that the Queensland/Australian honey studied is a good source of K and Zn and would constitute a good nutritional source of these elements.

Serum, Whole Blood, Hair, and Mucosal Essential Trace Element and Mineral Levels in Children with Verified Chronic Rhinosinusitis Undergoing Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.

The objective of the present study was to assess hair, serum, whole blood, and excised tissue essential element content in children with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Eighty-eight children with chronic rhinosinusitis and 66 healthy controls were enrolled in the present study. Evaluation of endoscopic Lund-Kennedy and computed tomography Lund-Mackay scores, as well as tissue sampling, was performed only in children with chronic rhinosinusitis. Assessment of Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-20 (SNOT-20) scores was performed in both cases and controls. Hair, whole blood, blood serum, and excised mucosal tissue (only in patients) analysis was performed using inductively coupled argon plasma mass-spectrometry. The obtained data demonstrate that whole blood Ca, Mg, Se, and Zn, as well as hair Ca, Cu, Mg, and Zn levels in the examined patients were significantly lower as compared with the control values. Only serum Zn concentration in children with CRS exceeded the respective control values, whereas serum Cu levels only tended to decrease in CRS. In turn, hair Fe content in children with CRS exceeded that in healthy controls. Regression analysis demonstrate that hair Ca levels, as well as whole blood Ca, Se, and Zn concentrations, were considered as negative predictors, whereas increased hair iron level was significantly directly associated with CRS. Significant associations between hair, serum, whole blood, and tissue element levels and Lund-Kennedy and Lund-Mackay scores were also revealed. Generally, the obtained data demonstrate that chronic rhinosinusitis is associated with impaired essential metal levels in pediatric patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The observed alterations may contribute to CRS pathogenesis through modulation of mucociliary clearance, immunity, inflammatory response, and redox environment.

Impact of soaking, germination, fermentation, and thermal processing on the bioaccessibility of trace minerals from food grains

The effects of soaking, germination, fermentation, and thermal processing on the bioaccessible copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and chromium (Cr) from selected food grains as well as from some chiefly consumed food products—idli, dosa, and dhokla were investigated. Soaking of the legumes (chickpea and green gram) and cereal–pulse combinations (rice + black gram) used for idli and dosa preparation, improved the bioaccessible Cr; however, the bioaccessible Cu and Mn were reduced. Germination improved the Cu and Cr bioaccessibility. Fermentation enhanced only the Cr bioaccessibility in idli and dosa batter. Also, cooking enhanced only the bioaccessible Cu in idli and dosa. The beneficial effects of these processing methods were more visible in Cr bioaccessibility, followed by Cu. The present study can be helpful in understanding the effects of household methods on the bioaccessibility of less understood minerals (Cu, Mn, and Cr), and thus, in developing dietary strategies. Practical applications Copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and chromium (Cr) are the essential trace minerals required by humans for normal physiological functions. Cereals and pulses are the primary sources of these minerals. However, the bioavailabilities of these minerals from plant foods are compromised due to the presence of several antinutrients such as phytates, polyphenols, oxalates, etc. Household methods such as soaking, germination, fermentation, and thermal processing are known to affect the bioavailability of minerals both positively and negatively. However, the information on the effect of these food processing methods on Cu, Mn, and Cr is poorly documented. In this study, we reported the beneficial effect of germination and thermal processing on bioaccessible Cu, and, soaking, germination, and fermentation on bioaccessible Cr from food grains. Thus, we can recommend using these household methods to access the plant foods with higher bioavailability of essential trace minerals, Cu and Cr.

Selenium in Se-enriched tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum L. Gaertn.): Its molecular form and changes during processing

The essential trace mineral, selenium (Se), is of fundamental importance to human health. Tartary buckwheat is a pseudocereal variety rich in functional flavonoids. To investigate the characters of Se-enriched Tartary buckwheat in Shaanxi province, we studied effect of different processing methods on its nutrients and selenium distribution in Se-enriched buckwheat groat (Se-BG), milled flour (Se-BMF), extruded flake (Se-BEF) and roasted groat (Se-BRG). The highest total selenium content in Se-BG was 118.04 μg/kg. Se-BMF (110.55 μg/kg) and Se-BEF (98.55 μg/kg) showed less selenium loss while the most selenium loss was recorded in Se-BRG (66.63 μg/kg). Selenium and selenomethionine (SeMet) were mainly present in glutelin, followed by albumin. SeMet content followed the trends of Se-BG (76.21 μg/kg groat) > Se-BMF (75.24 μg/kg groat) > Se-BEF (64.76 μg/kg groat) > Se-BRG (21.21 μg/kg groat).This shows that processing also has a great influence on the distribution of selenium forms.

Retrospective Assessment of Selenium Status in High Risk Infants

Abstract Objectives Selenium (Se) is an essential trace mineral important in neonatal development that contributes to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. Se deficiency in preterm infants is associated with late onset sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, poor neurodevelopmental outcomes, and retinopathy of prematurity. Current Se dosing in many US Neonatal Intensive Care Units is based on the amount of Se in term breastmilk. However, it is unclear if this is sufficient and higher levels may be needed to prevent or treat Se deficiency. Our goal was to evaluate if the current practice supplementing total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with sodium selenite 2 mcg/kg/d is sufficient at preventing Se deficiency in high risk infants. Methods This is a retrospective chart review of Se status at a level IV Children's Hospital NICU from January 1, 2017 to August 30, 2019. Infants were included if born from 22–42 weeks gestation and received TPN for &amp;gt;4 weeks. They were excluded if there was concern for active sepsis or bacterial illness at time of Se draw. Normal Se status was defined as 45–90 ng/mL for infants 0–2 months. Birth weight, IUGR status, gestational age, and % enteral feeds were evaluated. Se deficient infants received higher Se dosing at 5–7 mcg/kg/d. Repeat levels were evaluated after 4 weeks. Results are reported as mean ± SD. Results Se status was assessed for 39 infants. Average gestational age was 29.8 ± 5.36 weeks. Average birth weight was 1499 ± 837 g. At the time of first Se assessment, 78% of infants were Se deficient, with a mean Se level of 40.95 ± 12 ng/mL. Repeat Se levels on higher dosing was assessed in 23 infants. After &amp;gt;4 weeks of higher Se dosing, 35% of infants remained Se deficient, with a mean Se level of 54.04 ± 14 ng/mL. By t-test, statistically fewer infants were Se deficient on higher Se dosing (P &amp;lt; 0.0003). Conclusions Infants on prolonged TPN &amp;gt;4 weeks are at high risk for Se deficiency. Se dosing at 2 mcg/kg/day is insufficient in preventing deficiency for a majority of these babies. Higher Se dosing improved the percentage of Se sufficient infants, but a third remained deficient. Future studies are needed to prospectively determine if higher Se in TPN prevents Se deficiency. Funding Sources University of Colorado, Section of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine.

Hepatic Postnatal Developmental Expression of Trace Mineral Associated Antioxidant Enzymes

Abstract Objectives Oxidative stress is central to the etiology of many diseases of prematurity. Lower antioxidant defenses render premature infants vulnerable to oxidative damage secondary to infection and oxygen therapy. Antioxidant enzymes (AOE) increase perinatally in the blood and lungs. Many AOE require a micronutrient such as selenium (Se) or zinc (Zn) to function at maximum efficacy. These trace elements are low in neonates compared to adults. The liver is an important immune surveillance organ where antioxidant defense is critical for host response. It also plays a major role in micronutrient processing. However, the developmental regulation and expression of AOE in the liver is incompletely described. We hypothesized the neonatal liver would have decreased trace mineral associated AOE. Methods C57BL/6mice were sacrificed at P0, P7, P21 and 8–12 weeks. mRNA and protein expression of key AOE (SOD1, SOD2, SOD3, Gpx1, Gpx4, Msrb1, TrxR1) and factors for Se processing (Sephs2/Sps2, Scly, Pstk) were measured by qPCR and Western blot. Results Hepatic mRNA for selenoenzymes Gpx1 and Msrb1 were developmentally regulated, low at P0 and increased by adult (P &amp;lt; 0.05, n = 5–6). Gpx1 protein increased 7–8-fold and Msrb1 protein increased 6-fold from P0 to adult (P &amp;lt; 0.0001, n = 4). Gene expression of Zn related SOD1 and Mn SOD2 increased postnatally, low at P0 and increased in adult (P &amp;lt; 0.01 n = 5–6). Protein expression for each increased 1.5 and 3-fold from P0 to adult respectively (P &amp;lt; 0.001, n = 4) The mRNA and protein expression for Gpx4, TrxR1 and SOD3 remained constant postnatally. As the greatest increase was observed in selenoenzymes, factors for Se processing were evaluated. Sephs2, Scly and Pstk mRNA increased from P0 compared to P21 and adult mice (P &amp;lt; 0.05, n = 4–6). Protein expression for Pstk and Scly was highest at P21 and protein for Sps2 increased postnatally (P &amp;lt; 0.01, n = 4). Conclusions The liver experiences a postnatal increase in essential trace mineral associated AOE. Additionally, the hepatic machinery for Se processing is low in neonatal mice. We speculate that the neonatal liver is vulnerable to oxidative stress secondary to low AOE defense. We also speculate states that decreased neonatal micronutrient status may further impair the hepatic redox state. Funding Sources CCTSI Child Maternal Health Mentored Grant (L.S).

Biotechnological applications of microbial phytase and phytic acid in food and feed industries

Abstract The enzyme phytases facilitates in degradation of phytate. Phytate as a natural compound serving as primary source for storing phosphate among plants. From the biotechnological prospects, there has been a considerable leap in the Enzyme technology, which has massively broadened the commercial aspects of phytase. Their impact in the food and feed industry has become much more quintessential in the recent times. For nearly two decades, there has been a wide array of commercially available microbial phytases in market with commercial significance as it facilitates the farmers with essential. Phytases in particular cannot be neglected from being a threat for human diet due to its anti-nutrient activity as they served as strong chelating agent against many divalent minerals. Similar to phytases activity, PA also was found to showcase a potential towards binding positively charged proteins, amino acids, and/or multivalent cations or minerals in foods. Besides the food industry has overlooked on the very fact of phytase significance as its supplementation results in improving the net availability of the essential trace elements and minerals to humans. Similarly they serve as an essential feed source for mongastric animals.

Effects of Dietary Iron Level on Growth Performance, Immune Organ Indices and Meat Quality in Chinese Yellow Broilers.

Simple SummaryIron (Fe) is an essential trace mineral for all living organisms, playing important roles in oxygen and electron transport as well as in DNA synthesis. At present, requirements of chickens for trace elements are still based on past National Research Council (NRC) (1994) standards. It is important, therefore, to accurately re-evaluate and satisfy the Fe requirements of modern broiler chicken, and especially important, non-Western breeds such as Chinese yellow broilers, for their optimal growth and health. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of Fe on growth performance, immune organs and meat quality in Chinese yellow broilers. Based on the findings, feeding yellow-feathered broilers on a conventional corn-soy-based diet satisfies their requirements without additional Fe at ages 1 to 21, and 22 to 42 d, while 90 mg/kg in the finisher phase improved meat quality, and from the QP (quadratic polynomial) models of the key meat quality variables pH of breast muscle and drip loss of breast muscle, the optimal dietary Fe level was 89 to 108 mg/kg, and daily Fe fed allowance was 11 to 13 mg in the finisher phase (43 to 63 d).The objective of three trials was to investigate the effects of dietary Fe on growth performance, immune organ indices and meat quality of Chinese yellow broilers during the whole growth period. A total of 1440 1-day-old, 1440 22-day-old, and 1080 43-day-old Lingnan yellow male broilers were randomly assigned to one of six dietary treatments with six replicates per treatment (40 birds per replicate for both 1 to 21 d and 22 to 42 d, 30 birds for 43 to 63 d). Additional Fe (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/kg) was added as FeSO4 • H2O to the three basal diets (calculated Fe 50 mg/kg, analyzed 48.3, 49.1, 48.7 mg/kg, respectively). The calculated final dietary Fe concentrations in Starter, Grower and Finisher phases were 50, 70, 90, 110, 130, and 150 mg/kg. The results showed that average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion rate (FCR) of the broilers were not influenced by the different levels of Fe (p> 0.05). Weight indices of the spleen, thymus and bursa of Fabricius were not influenced (p > 0.05) by the different levels of Fe during three 21-day experimental periods. Hematocrit, and Fe contents of the liver and kidney were not affected by different levels of Fe (p> 0.05). The diet with 150 mg/kg of Fe increased the a* (relative redness) value of breast muscle compared to the 50 and 70 mg/kg diets at 24 h post mortem (p< 0.05). The diet with 90 mg/kg Fe increased the pH of breast muscle compared to broilers fed 50 or 150 mg/kg Fe (p < 0.05) 45 min after slaughter. The diet with 90 mg/kg Fe decreased drip loss of breast muscle compared to 150 mg/kg Fe (p< 0.05). These data suggest that feeding yellow-feathered broilers on a conventional corn-soy based diet satisfies their requirements without additional Fe at ages 1 to 21, and 22 to 42 d, while 90 mg/kg in the finisher phase improved meat quality, and from the QP (quadratic polynomial) models of the key meat quality variables, pH of breast muscle and drip loss of breast muscle, the optimal dietary Fe level was 89 to 108 mg/kg, and daily Fe fed allowance was 11 to 13 mg in the finisher phase (43 to 63 d).

Northeastern Montana range pastures maintaining distinct American bison herds yield different trace metal availability and intestinal parasite infections in the American Bison on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation

BackgroundThe Fort Peck Reservation tribes maintain two distinct bison herds on different pastures in Montana which includes a cultural herd (purebred) and a business herd (contains beef genes). The different pastures housing the herds have different Animal Unit Months (AMU) ratings (a measurement of forage/acre per adult animal) with the cultural herd pasture having a higher rating. With the limited grazing opportunities, it has been discovered that many of these bison have serious health problems related to malnutrition which can cause lower birth rates. Previous studies indicate metals such as copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are necessary for proper health and birthrates. In addition, poor calving rates in apparently healthy bison with adequate protein in diet might simply be from the different metal deficiencies.HypothesisDecreased absorption of Cu and Zn are due to increased absorption of selenium and molybdenum. These deficiencies along with parasitic infections are causing health problems both bison herds on the Fort Peck Reservation.MethodsWe successively isolated liver and fecal samples from euthanized bison to test for toxic and essential trace minerals, and to probe for present parasites in the gastrointestinal tracts. Ova were counted using light microscopes from intestinal fecal matter obtained from the bison.ResultsMineral imbalances were detected as elevated molybdenum (Mo) in both herds. Elevated Mo can deplete liver copper (Cu). Deficient levels of Cu, manganese (Mn) and Zn were evident in both herds. On average cultural animals had Cu levels on of 7.75 ppm, well below the suggested range of 75 ppm while the business herd liver Cu content was averaged to be even lower at 4.33 ppm. Additionally, Mn was found to be deficient in the cultural herd (2.1 ppm where 3.0 ppm is normal) but not in the business herd. Zn was deficient in both herds at 28 ppm where 100 ppm is normal. Also, we determined that bison in both herds were either free of internal parasites or had low burdens of infestation. Seven business herd and 15 cultural herd fecal present in the cultural herd, none in the business herd. We believe health problems from malnutrition contribute to decreased weights and birthrates of the bison on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation samples were analyzed. The business herd had samples that exhibited undetectable ova or parasites per gram of feces while the cultural herd samples had low levels of Strongyle type ova (0.4–7.78 ova/gram of feces). Three of the cultural herd samples in additionally had Trichuris sp. (0.4 ova/gram), Nematodirus (0.2–0.67 ova/gram), and/or Coccidia (0.6 ova/gram).ConclusionsMalabsorption of nutrients is caused by increased absorption of selenium and molybdenum but not infections from parasites in the Bison digestive tract.Support or Funding InformationFunded by the USDA

Assessing the epigenetics effects on the expression of the Fabp3 promoter region of Zinc‐Transporter 7‐deficient mice

Zinc is an essential trace mineral for life. Zinc transporter 7 (ZNT7) transports zinc from the cytosol to the Golgi to maintain cellular zinc homeostasis. Mice with null‐Znt7 gene expression exhibit low zinc status, low body weight, as well as alterations in glucose and triglyceride homeostasis leading to a reduction in fat storage in adipocytes, and subsequently an increase in fat accumulation in muscle. The increase in muscle‐triglycerides in the Znt7KO mice is accompanied by a surge in the expression of Fabp3. Fatty‐Acid binding proteins (FABPs) belong to a family of proteins involved in intracellular lipid transport and status, yet some functions remain unknown. Fabp3 is found to be abundantly expressed in the heart, but it can also be moderately detected in skeletal muscle. Altered Fabp3 expression has been linked to a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome in humans, hence this area of research is promising as rates of obesity and obesity‐related diseases continue to rise. DNA methylation has been shown to regulate human Fabp3 mRNA expression. Therefore, we aim to discover the methylation status of the mouse Fabp3 gene in a zinc deficient state using Znt7KO mice and determine a relationship between cellular zinc deficiency and the increased lipid accumulation in muscle, a cause of insulin resistance in Znt7KO male mice. Our preliminary results indicate that the cellular zinc level‐related DNA demethylation mainly occur in the area surround the transcriptional start site of Fabp3.Support or Funding InformationUSDA/ARS 2032‐51000‐005‐00D

Fecal microbiota as a noninvasive biomarker to predict the tissue iron accumulation in intestine epithelial cells and liver.

Iron is an essential trace mineral required for growth, metabolism, and immune response. Dysregulation of iron homeostasis is linked with the development and progression of various diseases. Iron accumulation is associated with inflammatory diseases and cancer, while iron deficiency leads to the growth retardation. Several studies have suggested that iron imbalance results in alteration of gut microbiota, leading to the disruption of microbial diversity, the increase of pathogen abundance, and the induction of intestinal inflammation. However, in screening studies done in the past decades, the association between the iron availability and gut microbiota has not been systemically explored. Furthermore, a noninvasive and convenient approach to determine the iron levels in tissues is lacking. In the present study, a murine model for iron dysregulation was established. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and bioinformatic algorithms were used to identify the key taxa. Using the key taxa identified and machine learning models, we established an easily accessible prediction model, which could accurately distinguish between iron-deprived or iron-fortified condition. This prediction model could precisely predict the iron level of the intestinal epithelial cells and the liver and could be used for early diagnosis of iron dysbiosis-related diseases, in a noninvasive manner, in the future.