Features Of Metabolic Syndrome Research Articles

Mucus-penetrating microbiota drive chronic low-grade intestinal inflammation and metabolic dysregulation

ABSTRACT Metabolic syndrome is, in humans, associated with alterations in the composition and localization of the intestinal microbiota, including encroachment of bacteria within the colon’s inner mucus layer. Possible promoters of these events include dietary emulsifiers, such as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polysorbate-80 (P80), which, in mice, result in altered microbiota composition, encroachment, low-grade inflammation and metabolic syndrome. While assessments of gut microbiota composition have largely focused on fecal/luminal samples, we hypothesize an outsized role for changes in mucus microbiota in driving low-grade inflammation and its consequences. In support of this notion, we herein report that both CMC and P80 led to stark changes in the mucus microbiome, markedly distinct from those observed in feces. Moreover, transfer of mucus microbiota from CMC- and P80-fed mice to germfree mice resulted in microbiota encroachment, low-grade inflammation, and various features of metabolic syndrome. Thus, we conclude that mucus-associated bacteria are pivotal determinants of intestinal inflammatory tone and host metabolism.

Adrenalectomy improves MSG-induced obesity in rats by increasing UCP-1 levels in interscapular brown adipose tissue

The administration of monosodium glutamate (MSG) to neonates has been shown to result in hypothalamic damage and development of metabolic syndrome. The objective of this study was to investigate whether bilateral adrenalectomy (ADX) could alter sympathetic activity in adult MSG rats, with the potential to contribute to the improvement of metabolic syndrome by interfering with intermediary metabolism. Following a period of 99 days, the rats that received the control treatment and MSG were subjected to bilateral adrenalectomy (ADX). The following experimental groups were established, and designated as follows: CTL-SHAM, CTL-ADX, MSG-SHAM, and MSG-ADX. The subjects were 109 and 110 days-old at the time of the experiment. The assessment included murinometric and biochemical parameters, an intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT), sympathetic nerve activity in interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT), and protein content of β3-adrenergic receptor (β3-ADR) and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1). The MSG rats presented metabolic syndrome, which was associated with lower sympathetic activity and a decreased content of the β3-adrenergic receptor when compared to the controls in iBAT. We can conclude that the lower β3-adrenergic receptor contributed to the maintenance of obesity in the MSG rats model. Although it has an adverse effect on the glucose tolerance of CTL-ADX animals, the typical features of metabolic syndrome in adult MSG rats were mitigated by ADX. These effects included an enhancement of UCP-1 in iBAT, a reduction in fat accumulation, and an improvement in glycemia, thereby contributing to an improvement in metabolic syndrome.

Association between metabolic score for insulin resistance and stroke: a nationally representative cross-sectional study from NHANES 2007-2018.

Stroke is a significant cerebrovascular disease and remains one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Insulin resistance has been strongly linked to the incidence of stroke. Employing characteristics of metabolic syndrome, the Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR) accurately measures insulin resistance. Nonetheless, the relationship between METS-IR and stroke risk is not well-established. We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) covering the years 2007-2018. Participants providing complete METS-IR data and self-reported stroke information were included in the study. We utilized weighted multivariate regression to explore the relationship between METS-IR and stroke, performing subgroup analyses as well. A total of 14,794 participants were included, with an average METS-IR of 43.44 ± 12.68. The overall prevalence of self-reported stroke was 3.79%, with higher rates observed in upper METS-IR tertiles. An increase of one unit in METS-IR was associated with a 1% increase in stroke risk (OR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.01-1.02). Interaction tests indicated no significant effects of gender, smoking status, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes, physical activity, or serum cholesterol levels on this relationship. Notably, for participants younger than 60 years, the association was significantly stronger (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01-1.03), with a marked interaction (p = 0.0061). Our findings indicate a positive correlation between higher METS-IR and increased stroke risk. Early intervention targeting insulin resistance may be a viable preventive measure against stroke, particularly in individuals under 60 years of age.

The efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MSMC39-1 and Bifidobacterium animalis TA-1 probiotics in modulating gut microbiota and reducing the risk of the characteristics of metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.

Modern treatment, a healthy diet, and physical activity routines lower the risk factors for metabolic syndrome; however, this condition is associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality worldwide. This investigation involved a randomized controlled trial, double-blind, parallel study. Fifty-eight participants with risk factors of metabolic syndrome according to the inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups and given probiotics (Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MSMC39-1 and Bifidobacterium animalis TA-1) (n = 31) or a placebo (n = 27). The participants had a mean age of 42.29 ± 7.39 and 43.89 ± 7.54 years in the probiotics and placebo groups, respectively. Stool samples, anthropometric data, and blood chemistries were taken at baseline and at 12 weeks. The primary outcome was achieved by the probiotics group as their low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level dramatically lowered compared to the placebo group (the difference was 39.97 ± 26.83 mg/dl, p-value <0.001). Moreover, significant reductions in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and total cholesterol were observed in the volunteers treated with probiotics compared to the placebo. In the gut microbiome analysis, the results showed statistically significant differences in the beta diversity in the post-intervention probiotics group. Blautia, Roseburia, Collinsella, and Ruminococcus were among the gut microbiomes that were more prevalent in the post-intervention probiotics group. In addition, this group exhibited increases in the predicted functional changes in ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, as well as ribonucleic acid transport, the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and pyruvate metabolism. In conclusion, this research demonstrated that the probiotics L. paracasei MSMC39-1 and B. animalis TA-1 have the efficacy to lower risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome.

Supplementing the standard diet with brown rice bran powder might effectively improve the metabolic syndrome characteristics and antioxidant status: an open label randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: This study explores the impact of brown rice bran powder (BRBP), known for its beneficial components, such as dietary fiber and γ-oryzanol, on individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome (MetS). Subjects/Methods: In this eight-week open-label controlled trial, fifty participants with MetS were randomly assigned to either a control group, which received a standard diet (SDiet), or an intervention group, which incorporated 15 grams of BRBP daily into their diet. Demographic, anthropometric and clinical data were collected, and blood samples were taken to assess metabolic factors and antioxidant enzyme activities. Additionally, the participants completed the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale questionnaire. Results: Analysis of covariance controlled for the baseline levels and medication consumptions revealed that postthis trial, compared to the controls, patients who received BRBP showed significant reductions in BMI (P-value = 0.001; effect size (ES): -1.13), waist circumference (P-value < 0.001; ES: -1.28), total-cholesterol (P-value = 0.028; ES: -0.74), LDL-cholesterol (P-value = 0.002; ES: -0.86), blood sugar (P-value = 0.013; ES: -0.82), as well as triglyceride glucose (TyG)-BMI index (as a marker of insulin resistance) (P-value < 0.001; ES: -1.35). Further, BRBP resulted in significant improvements in antioxidant enzyme activities, including glutathione peroxidase (P-value = 0.010; ES: 0.86), superoxide dismutase serum activities (P-value = 0.021; ES: 0.78), and constipation rate (P-value = 0.018; ES: -0.85) compared to SDiet alone. However, no significant changes were found regarding levels of triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol, glutathione, catalase and blood pressure after the trial. Conclusion: The findings of this trial support the weight-reducing, hypocholestrolemic, anti-hyperglycemic, and antioxidative effects of adding BRBP to SDiet that is prescribed for MetS patients.

Comparison of Lipid Profile and Insulin Sensitivity in Rabbits Fed with High-Fat or High Fructose Diets

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are significant global health challenges influenced by dietary and lifestyle factors. This study aimed to develop an experimental rabbit model of obesity and metabolic syndrome using high-fat and high-fructose diets over 11 weeks. Rabbits were divided into three groups: group A (control) fed a basal diet, group B fed a high-fat diet, and group C fed a high-fructose diet. Key metrics assessed included body weight, fat mass, basal glycemia, glucose infusion rate (GIR), total cholesterol, triacylglycerol (TAG), and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels.Group B (high-fat diet) showed the highest body weight (2640±70g) and fat mass (90±12.2g), while group A (control) had the lowest values (2420±40g and 63.3±9.5g, respectively). Group C (high-fructose diet) exhibited the highest basal glycemia (5.52±0.31 mmol/l) and TAG levels (2±0.30 mmol/l). GIR was highest in group A (18.5±1.2 mg/kg/min) and lowest in group B (12.9±2.0 mg/kg/min). Total cholesterol was highest in group A (2.04±0.14 mmol/l) and lowest in group C (1.83±0.14 mmol/l). NEFA levels peaked in group C (0.41±0.04 mmol/l) and were lowest in group A (0.3±0.04 mmol/l).The study demonstrated that high-fat and high-fructose diets induce distinct metabolic changes in rabbits, modeling key features of obesity and metabolic syndrome. These findings highlight the differential impacts of these diets, providing a basis for further research into the mechanisms and dietary influences driving these conditions

Effects of Tinospora cordifolia (giloy) on metabolic syndrome components: a mechanistic review.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of some conditions such as high blood sugar, high blood triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, abdominal obesity, and high blood pressure. Introducing a drug or a food that manages the majority of these medical conditions is invaluable. Tinospora cordifolia, known as guduchi and giloy, is a medicinal herb in ayurvedic medicine that is used in the treatment of various diseased conditions and also as a food for the maintenance of health. Here, we reviewed the current evidence supporting the role of giloy in the development and treatment of metabolic syndrome components. Appropriate articles that have been published until May 2024 were carefully extracted from PubMed, Scopus, and WOS databases to write a narrative review systematically. Gathered data showed the beneficial effects of giloy on metabolic syndrome components: hyperlipidemia, obesity, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and especially diabetes mellitus. As diabetes and insulin resistance seem to be a central feature of metabolic syndrome and in turn, can cause dyslipidemia, obesity, and, atherosclerosis, these beneficial effects are predictable with the anti-diabetogenic property of giloy. In this review, the main mechanisms of action of giloy in metabolic syndrome components are discussed. Based on the results, although giloy has been less investigated, considerable studies provide evidence of its beneficial effects on different components of metabolic syndrome. Relevant clinical trials are necessary to validate the mentioned effects, safety, and optimum dose of this herbal medicine and its components in managing different components of metabolic syndrome and transition from bench to bedside.

Characteristics of metabolic syndrome in the servicemen with erosive esophagitis in wartime conditions

Background. Among the well-known factors contribu­ting to the prevalence of erosive esophagitis, the leading one is an increase in the number of individuals with obesity and insulin resistance. The assessment of metabolic syndrome in the servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with erosive esopha­gitis in wartime conditions is of particular importance, as the effectiveness of their professional activities depends on it. The purpose of the study: to evaluate the body composition and insulin resistance in the servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with erosive esophagitis, taking into account the level of the stress index, exhaustion and adaptative capacity of the body. Materials and me­thods. The study included 24 men aged 33 to 57 years, the average age was (42.7 ± 2.1) years. All military personnel were assessed for maladjustment, increased cardiovascular risk, anxiety, and fatigue using the cardiorhythmography method based on the ana­lysis of heart rate variability on the CONTEC8000GW system. Body composition was assessed using Tanita MC-780МА (Japan) scales-analyzers whose mechanism is based on the technique of bioimpedance analysis with computer processing. Insulin resistance was evaluated using the HOMA-IR index, for the calculation of which the level of insulin was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay systems of the Xema company (Ukraine) on the Stat Fax 303 Plus analyzer (USA). Results. According to precise diagnostics, half of the servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with erosive esophagitis were diagnosed with vegetative imbalance, which was manifested by an increase in the stress index in 37.5 % of cases, a disruption or violation of adaptation in 25.0 %, and exhaustion of the body in 54.2 % of cases. The HOMA-IR index was 1.5 times higher (p = 0.006) compared to that of the control group. 37.5 % of the servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with erosive esophagitis showed signs of metabolic syndrome. Correlation analysis revealed relationship of heart rate variability with body composition indicators (body mass index, fat mass, and amount of visceral fat). In addition, an increase in insulin resistance is associated with an increase in the stress index and cardiovascular risk, as well as a decrease in the adaptive capacity of the body and its exhaustion. Conclusions. The correlations found between indicators of heart rate variability, insulin resistance and body composition will allow for the development of a personalized approach to the management of the servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with erosive esophagitis.

Machine learning algorithms that predict the risk of prostate cancer based on metabolic syndrome and sociodemographic characteristics: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundGiven the rapid increase in the prevalence of prostate cancer (PCa), identifying its risk factors and developing suitable risk prediction models has important implications for public health. We used machine learning (ML) approach to screen participants with high risk of PCa and, specifically, investigated whether participants with metabolic syndrome (MetS) exhibited an elevated PCa risk.MethodsA prospective cohort study was performed with 41,837 participants in South Korea. We predicted PCa based on MetS, its components, and sociodemographic factors using Cox proportional hazards and five ML models. Integrated Brier score (IBS) and C-index were used to assess model performance.ResultsA total of 210 incident PCa cases were identified. We found good calibration and discrimination for all models (C-index ≥ 0.800 and IBS = 0.01). Importantly, performance increased after excluding MetS and its components from the models; the highest C-index was 0.862 for survival support vector machine. In contrast, first-degree family history of PCa, alcohol consumption, age, and income were valuable for PCa prediction.ConclusionML models are an effective approach to develop prediction models for survival analysis. Furthermore, MetS and its components do not seem to influence PCa susceptibility, in contrast to first-degree family history of PCa, age, alcohol consumption, and income.

Contribution of Sex Differences to Development of Cardiovascular Disease in Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Sex differences are a complex and crucial variable in developing and progressing metabolic and cardiovascular disease pathophysiology and clinical outcomes. The female sex, compared to the male sex, is protected from metabolic disturbances and their resulting cardiovascular events. However, the peculiar life phases associated with females, such as puberty, pregnancy, and premenopausal and menopausal stages, are all associated with different risks for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition of hepatic steatosis, and at least one feature of metabolic syndrome is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. The risk of MASLD and its progression to the development of CVD differs between men and women. Differences in several factors, including formyl peptide receptor (FPR) 2, adipose tissue distribution, liver pyruvate kinase (LPK), and ketone body production, may underlie the sex differences in the risk of development of MASLD-induced CVD. Understanding the specific risk factors involved in the development and progression of MASLD between the sexes is crucial. This knowledge will provide important insights into the mechanisms responsible for its cardiovascular complications and can potentially lead to therapeutics targeted explicitly for each sex, offering new hope in the fight against MASLD-induced CVD.

Disordered Eating Profiles in Adolescence to Early Adulthood and Future Cardiometabolic Health.

Evidence is scarce on the clustering patterns of disordered eating dimensions or symptoms and their effects on future cardiometabolic health. This study examines associations of disordered eating trajectory profiles (from 13 to 21 years), with BMI and related cardiometabolic features at ages 21, 24 and 27. Participants are from the Epidemiological Health Investigation of Teenagers cohort (Porto, Portugal). At 13, 17 and 21 years, 3 Eating Disorder Inventory subscales were assessed (drive for thinness, bulimia and body dissatisfaction), and a latent class analysis derived trajectory profiles. Associations with BMI and having ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature at 21 (n = 1619), 24 (n = 916) and 27 years (n = 720) were tested using generalized linear models and binary logistic regressions. The following 4 profiles were obtained: "higher" levels (highest severity of symptoms at all ages, 16-19%), "increasing" (especially of body concerns, 26-28%), "decreasing" (18-19%), and "lower" (highest proportion of individuals with low/without disordered eating, 35-37%). Compared with the lower levels profile, both sexes with higher and increasing disordered eating presented heightened BMI at 21, 24 and 27 years. Women in the higher levels profile had higher odds of having ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature at 21 and 24 years, while men with higher and increasing disordered eating presented increased odds at 21, 24 and 27 years. Individuals, particularly males, with higher or increasing disordered eating levels from 13 to 21 years of age presented a higher risk of worsened cardiometabolic health up to 6 years later in adulthood.

Clinical and laboratory features of metabolic syndrome in young indigenous and non-indigenous residents of Western Siberia (on the example of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra)

Objective. To study the clinical and laboratory features of metabolic syndrome (MS) in young indigenous and non-indigenous residents of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – Yugra. Materials and methods. 863 young people aged 18–44 years were examined, of which 344 people had MS, 519 people without it. Comparison was made by ethnicity and gender. A general clinical examination, anthropometric study, measurement and assessment of blood pressure, lipid profile and fasting plasma glucose were conducted. Results. MS was detected in 42.9% of the total sample, in 40.7% of indigenous residents, and in 43.9% of non-indigenous residents. MS is common in 40.3% of men and 44.1% of women. MS was less common in indigenous men than in non-indigenous men (31.6% versus 43.5%). The incidence was identical in indigenous and non-indigenous women (44.1%). The prevalence of MS in indigenous men was 12.5% lower than in indigenous women (31.6% vs. 45.1%) (odds ratio 1.711; 95% confidence interval 0.980–2.986; p=0.058). The prevalence of MS in non-indigenous men (43.5%) and women (44.1%) was identical. Conclusion. A high prevalence of MS was established in young residents of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra. MS was more common in young women than in men. Indigenous women were 12.5% more likely to develop metabolic disorders than in indigenous men. The structure of MS in young people is characterized by frequent lipid profile disorders, in particular, hypertriglyceridemia. Abdominal obesity with dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia is common in non-native residents, and abdominal obesity with dyslipidemia and hypertension is common in the indigenous population.

Investigating the causal links between obstructive sleep apnea and gastrointestinal diseases mediated by metabolic syndrome through mendelian randomization

Previous studies have pointed to a potential link between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and gastrointestinal diseases, suggesting that this relationship might be influenced by the presence of Metabolic Syndrome. However, the exact role of these factors in determining gastrointestinal diseases has not been thoroughly explored. In our study, we utilized data from the Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS) database, focusing on OSA, metabolic syndrome characteristics such as Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, triglycerides, cholesterol, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and common gastrointestinal diseases including chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, cholecystitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver, and dyspepsia. By applying Single-variable and Multi-variable Mendelian randomization methods, we aimed to assess the correlation between OSA and gastrointestinal diseases and investigate whether this correlation is influenced by metabolic syndrome. Our findings revealed a strong association between OSA and an increased risk of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. No significant connections were found with irritable bowel syndrome, colorectal cancer, cholecystitis, or dyspepsia. Additionally, OSA was linked to metabolic syndrome traits like BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Further analysis showed that BMI, triglycerides, and hypertension were causally related to inflammatory bowel disease; BMI, waist circumference, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; and triglycerides, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes to chronic gastritis. The multivariable analysis indicated that hypertension mediates the relationship between OSA and chronic gastritis; BMI, triglycerides, and hypertension mediate the link between OSA and inflammatory bowel disease; and waist circumference mediates the connection between OSA and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. To wrap up, this finding helps us understand how these issues might be related and stresses the role of metabolic syndrome in preventing them, which could lessen their effect on health.

Can adiposity measures enhance the predictive power of the triglyceride-glucose index for metabolic syndrome in adults in the United States?

BackgroundInsulin resistance is a hallmark feature of metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is considered a reliable surrogate measure of insulin resistance. However, the efficacy of the TyG-index combined with adiposity measures for identifying MetSyn in U.S. adults is unknown. MethodsIn the present cross-sectional study, 2746 men and women from the 2017–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with physical and laboratory characteristics were included. Predictive powers (estimated by the area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic [ROC-AUC]) of TyG-index combined with adiposity for MetSyn were compared with other traditional surrogate markers of insulin resistance including the TyG index, homeostatic assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), 1/fasting insulin, and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI). ResultsPredictive power of TyG-WHtR (ROC-AUC: 0.875) for MetSyn was highest, followed by TyG-WC (0.866), TyG-BMI (0.845), TyG index (0.832), HOMA-IR (0.820), QUICKI (0.820) and 1/fasting insulin (0.786). TyG-WHtR and TyG-WC showed significantly higher ROC-AUCs compared with TyG-index, HOMA-IR, 1/fasting insulin, and QUICKI (p ≤ 0.001). ConclusionsTyG index combined with adiposity metrics is more effective in predicting MetSyn when compared to insulin resistance surrogates (TyG index, HOMA-IR, 1/fasting insulin, and QUICKI) which has been widely used in large cohort observational studies.

7086 Disrupted Mitochondrial Function in Alström Syndrome- A Monogenic Model of Insulin Resistance and Obesity

Abstract Disclosure: S. Ali: None. S. Heising: None. V. Veeranna: None. A. Vincent: None. G.S. Xavier: None. T. Geberhiwot: None. Alström syndrome (ALMS) is a rare monogenic disease typified by severe insulin resistance (IR) and obesity. IR and obesity are cardinal features of metabolic syndrome. The metabolic effects of insulin at key target tissues leads to metabolic haemostasis by promoting glucose and lipid uptake and metabolism to generate energy in cells. Although insulin is a major regulator of fuel metabolism, its effects on mitochondrial ATP production in severe insulin resistance are unclear. RNASeq data from adipose tissue (AT) from patients with ALMS show downregulation of the expression of genes associated with mitochondrial respiratory chain function, pointing towards possible altered mitochondrial function in ALMS. We therefore undertook a detailed assessment of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity (OXPHOS) in skeletal muscle (SM) in ALMS. We performed SM biopsy in 10 ALMS and 10 healthy control volunteers that were age, gender and Body Mass Index matched. The SM was subjected to high resolution respirometry, the gold standard method to quantify mitochondrial function ex vivo, using OROBOROS Oxygraph -2k (O2k) system. Overall OXPHOS was higher in control SM compared to ALMS, with maximal respiration of 62.96±19.2 and 44.24 ± 12.53 pmol/(s*mg), respectively (p&amp;lt;0.05).Reduced oxygen influx was observed in ALMS SM in comparison to controls for fatty acid ß oxidation (6.7±5.96 vs 7.87±2.7 pmol/(s*mg);p&amp;lt;0.05, at complex I (19.4 ± 8.98 vs 29.7 ±5.3 pmol/(s*mg);p&amp;lt;0.05, and at complex II (34.98 ±11.75 vs 53.52± 13.2 pmol/(s*mg) ;p&amp;lt;0.05. Mitochondrial membrane integrity was unaffected during these experiments. Therefore, our analysis unveils a consistent reduction in mitochondrial respiration across all the electron transport pathway. This noteworthy finding suggests impairment in respiratory function and the electron transport chain in mitochondria, a crucial aspect of cellular energy metabolism. Several studies have previously linked IR with mitochondrial dysfunction, where insulin-resistant rodents and humans have shown blunted mitochondrial response to ATP generation. Our results align with this body of evidence emphasizing the significance of investigating the underlying mechanism contributing to this phenomenon. These findings could pave the way to exploring potential mitochondrial-targeted therapies to restore mitochondrial function and therefore, improve insulin sensitivity to tackle IR in ALMS. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Gender difference in metabolic syndrome and some associated factors among the elderly at Thai Binh Medical University Hospital

Background: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults in Thai Binh province was still high (28.4%). However, previous studies on the prevalence of MetS among the elderly were still limited and inconsistent. Therefore, The objective of this study was to examine gender differences in metabolic syndrome (MetS) characteristics and some associated factors. Materials and Methods: A convenience sample of 404 elderly outpatients was recruited from Thai Binh Medical University Hospital. The general information and history of falls, sleep quality score, smoking, alcohol use, and body mass index (BMI) of the subjects were collected through questionnaires, and each patient's height, Weight, waist circumference (WC), and other physical signs were measured. MetS was diagnosed based on the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III). Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of MetS and its components. Results: The prevalence of MetS in elderly females (36.0%) is higher than in males (18.5%) (p&lt;0.001). The three component indices of MetS are low HDL-cholesterol ratio, high triglyceride (TG), and higher WC in females than males. In contrast, the two indices, high blood pressure (BP) and elevated blood sugar (BS), showed the opposite. Some factors associated with MetS in both genders are BMI, BS, and TG, but older men with a history of smoking [OR (95%CI), 3.2 (1.2-8.2)], and older women with a history of falls [OR (95%CI), 1.6 (1.1-2.4)] have a higher risk of MetS than other subjects. Conclusions: There were significant differences in MetS components in the two sexes. In additions, there are different factors related to the prevalence of MetS in both sexes: smoking history in men and history of falls in women. Keywords: Gender differences; Metabolic syndrome; Elderly; Risk factors.

ALMS1 KO rat: a new model of metabolic syndrome with spontaneous hypertension.

ALMS1 is a protein initially associated with Alström syndrome. This is a rare human disorder characterized by metabolic dysfunction, hypertension, obesity and hyperinsulinemia. In addition, ALMS1 gene was linked to hypertension status in a multipoint linkage population analysis. However, the mechanisms by which ALMS1 contributes to the development of obesity, insulin resistance and other metabolic disturbances are unknown. To study the role of ALMS1 in blood pressure regulation and renal function we previously generated an ALMS1 knockout rat model, where we found these rats are hypertensive. In this study, we further characterized the ALMS1 knockout rat, and found that they exhibit most characteristics of metabolic syndrome including hypertension and higher body weight by 10-12 weeks of age. In contrast, obesity, hyperinsulinemia and vascular dysfunction manifested at around 14-16 weeks of age. Interestingly, ALMS1 KO rats developed hyperleptinemia prior to the development of obesity rapidly after weaning by 7 weeks of age, suggesting an early role for ALMS1 in the hormonal control of leptin. We also found that female ALMS1 KO rats develop severe metabolic syndrome with hypertension similar to their male counterparts, lacking any protection often associated with better cardiovascular outcomes. Therefore, ALMS1 is an essential gene for sex-and age-dependent metabolic function. The ALMS1 knockout rat provides an invaluable pre-clinical animal model that recapitulates most symptoms present in patients and allows the study of new drugs and mechanisms that cause metabolic syndrome.

Supplementation with cysteine improved metabolic syndrome in rats by increasing antioxidant potential in the liver and adipose tissue, as well as decreasing hepatic NF-κB expression

Insulin resistance is a key characteristic of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The hepatic nuclear factor- κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes. Our study aimed to examine the impact of cysteine (Cys) on various biochemical and histopathological parameters in the liver and kidney, hepatic NF-kβ expression, oxidative stress, inflammation, glycation, carbonyl stress markers, and insulin resistance. The study involved four groups of rats, each consisting of seven rats: a control group, a MetS group, and two similar groups receiving Cys treatment. Metabolic syndrome was induced in rats by administering a 40% sucrose solution, while, the treated groups received 50 mg/L Cys in their drinking water. Various factors, including body weight, hepatic NF-kβ expression, levels of antioxidants, anti-glycation, oxidative stress, carbonyl stress, inflammatory, anti-glycation, and glycation markers were assessed in blood and tissues. Liver and kidney function parameters and metabolic profiles were measured. Finally, liver tissue was also evaluated by a pathologist. The results showed that Cys reduced hepatic NF-kβ expression, oxidative stress, inflammation, glycation and carbonyl stress markers, as well as liver fatty content, blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk index, and body weight. The treatment also mitigated histopathological liver changes and acute hepatitis (p < 0.001). Cysteine exhibited anti-obesity and anti-atherosclerotic effects, improved β-cell function, insulin sensitivity, and lipid metabolism, and enhanced liver and kidney function, as well as prevented acute hepatitis by restoring the GSH/GSSG ratio, hepatic NF-kβ signaling, and carbonyl stress.

Cardamom Essential Oil-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Reduces Obesity and Mitigates Diabetes Mellitus in Rats Fed with High Sugar/High Fat Diet

Background: Obesity is a chronic disease and one of the characteristic features of metabolic syndrome that is associated with severe health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of the Cardamom Essential Oil-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier) CEO-NLC) as a potential therapeutic agent to lower blood sugar and an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and weight-reducing agent. Methods: A total of 24 male Wistar rats, aged 8–10 weeks and weighing 200–410 g, were used in this study. The rats were divided into four groups: negative control (G1), diabetic control (G2), treatment group (CEO-NLC) (G3), and positive control (Empagliflozin; EMPA) (G4). Diabetes was induced in all groups by injection of Streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) except G1. Then, animals were treated consecutively for four weeks. On day 29, they were sacrificed, and blood/tissue samples were collected for serological and histopathological analysis, respectively. Results: Significant decrease in blood sugar levels on day 28 for both the CEO-NLC group and EMPA versus diabetic control group were seen (250 mg in CEO-NLC, and 300 mg in EMPA, vs 450 mg in the diabetic control group). CEO-NLC achieved a significant effect as a weight-losing agent (p = 0.004). Proinflammatory biomarkers and kidney and liver function tests were enhanced after CEO-NLC treatment. Additionally, substantial histopathological modifications in the CEO-NLC group were also seen compared to the diabetic group and EMPA group. Conclusions: CEO-NLC has potential activity in lowering blood sugar levels, aiding weight loss, and eventually, organ protection ability.

Prevalence of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease - A Population Based Study

Background: Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the accumulation of excess fat in the liver in the absence of significant alcohol consumption. NAFLD is a common cause of chronic liver disease. The overall prevalence of NAFLD in western countries varies from 15-40% and in Asian 9-40%. Its prevalence has not been determined in population based study in Bangladesh. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of NAFLD in adult rural population. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed among adult population of two villages of Comilla district, Bangladesh from January to December 2015. Persons with alcohol consumption and other liver diseases were excluded. Individuals were undergone anthropometric, blood pressure measurements, thorough medical history and physical examinations. Laboratory measurements included were fasting blood sugar (FBS), fasting lipid profile, and liver function tests. NAFLD was diagnosed by transabdominal ultrasonography. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software, version16.0. Results: Among 665 subjects, 213 were males (32%) and 452 were females (68%) with the mean age of 42.2 ± 15.04 years. NAFLD was diagnosed in 33% subjects. NAFLD were high in 41-60 age group (48.7%) and in female gender (P=&lt;0.175). Subjects with NAFLD had higher BMI (P&lt;0.001), higher prevalence of hypertension (P&lt;0.001), high FBS (P&lt;0.001), high cholesterol (P=0.026), high triglyceride (P&lt;0.001) and high waist circumference (P&lt;0.001). Subjects with NAFLD had significantly higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome when compared to healthy subjects (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of NAFLD in rural adult population of Bangladesh is 33% and is associated with female gender, obesity and features of metabolic syndrome. J Com Med Col Teachers Asso Jan 2024; 28(1): 27-32