Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentrations Research Articles

Effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore the effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).MethodsA total of 60 PCOS women with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized to vitamin D group (2000 IU/day) or control group. The observational parameters were measured at baseline and after treatment, including body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin release test, and lipid metabolism parameters.ResultsThe serum 25(OH)D concentrations at different time points after vitamin D supplementation were significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.05). The BMI, WHR, insulin concentrations, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations in women of Vitamin D group after 12 weeks of treatment were significantly lower than that in women of control group (P < 0.05). The serum insulin concentrations and HOMA-IR at different time points of OGTT, serum TG, TC and LDL-C concentrations in women of vitamin D group (obesity) were significantly lower compared with control group (obesity) (P < 0.05). The BMI, WHR, TG, TC and LDL-C concentration in women of vitamin D group (IR) were significantly lower compared with control group (IR) (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in metabolic parameters between vitamin D group (non-obesity) and control group (non-obesity) (P > 0.05), and these differences of metabolic parameters were also not observed between vitamin D group (non-IR) and control group (non-IR) (P > 0.05).ConclusionVitamin D supplementation had beneficial effects on metabolic parameters in PCOS women, especially in women with obesity or insulin resistance.

A CASE STUDY- MANAGEMENT OF DYSLIPIDEMIA W.S.R. TO MEDO DHATU DUSTI THROUGH AYURVEDA MANAGEMENT

Dyslipidemia is a disorder of lipoprotein metabolism, including lipoprotein overproduction or deficiency. These disorders may be manifested by an elevation of the serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cho-lesterol and triglyceride concentrations and a decrease in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concen-tration. As per Ayurveda, Acharya Charaka has counted Sthoulya under the eight impediments designated as Ninditapurusha. Lipids are discussed in terms of Sneha Dravya in Ayurveda. Mansa Dhatu is combined with Agni-Medodhatwagni, stirred up by the Agni, combined with the quality of Apa and unctuous substance, and finally converted into Medodhatu. As Chikitsa sutra of Medo Vridhi, Lekhan Karma is an essential therapeutic measure. Moreover, drugs of Arogya Vardhini Vati, Avipattikar Churna, Navaka Guggulu, Yakrit plihari Loha and Lekhaniya Mahakashaya are most effective in the management of Medo Dhatu Dushti or Medo Vridhi. INTRODUCTION: AIM AND OBJECTIVES- To evaluate the role of Ayurvedic Formulations in managing Medovriddhi with particular reference to Dyslipidemia. MATERIAL AND METHODS – A 44-year-old male patient came with the complaint of nausea, vomiting and burning sensation in the chest region and feet for the last two months. The patient has taken 20 days of modern medicine, but no relief was found, so he came to Ayurveda Hospital for better treatment. RESULT AND DIS-CUSSION The outcomes were noteworthy regarding the clinical and analytical criteria. According to statistics, there is an improvement in nausea, vomiting, and burning sensation in the chest region and feet, as well as cho-lesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels.

Fish oil supplementation modifies the associations between genetically predicted and observed concentrations of blood lipids: a cross-sectional gene-diet interaction study in UK Biobank

BackgroundDyslipidemia is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Although habitual intake of fish oil is associated with cardioprotective effects through triglyceride reduction, the interactions of fish oil with the genetic predisposition to dysregulated lipids remain elusive. ObjectivesWe examined whether fish oil supplementation modifies the association between genetically predicted and observed concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. MethodsA total of 441,985 participants with complete genetic and phenotypic data from the UK Biobank were included. Polygenic scores (PGS) of the 4 lipids were calculated in participants of diverse ancestries. For each lipid, multivariable linear regression models were used to assess if fish oil supplementation modified the association between PGS and the observed circulating concentration, with adjustment for relevant covariates. ResultsFish oil supplementation attenuates the associations between genetically predicted and observed circulating concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while accentuating the corresponding association for HDL cholesterol among 424,090 participants of European ancestry. Consistent significant findings were obtained using PGS calculated based on multiple genome-wide association studies or alternative PGS methods. For triglycerides, each standard deviation (SD) increment in PGS is associated with 0.254 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.248, 0.259] SD increase in the observed concentration among European-ancestry participants who reported fish oil usage. In contrast, a stronger association was observed in nonusers (0.267; 95% CI: 0.263, 0.270). Consistently, we showed that fish oil significantly attenuates the association between genetically predicted and observed concentrations of triglycerides in African-ancestry participants. ConclusionsFish oil supplementation attenuates the association between genetically predicted and observed circulating concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while accentuating the corresponding association for HDL cholesterol in individuals of European ancestry. Further research is needed to understand the clinical implications of these findings.

Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Women with Psoriasis

Objectives: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. The exact cause of psoriasis is unclear; nevertheless, it is thought to be complex including several key components such as genetic predisposition, triggers from the environment, skin barrier disruption, and immunological dysfunction. About 85–90% of all psoriatic patients present with plaque type of psoriasis. The systemic nature of psoriasis makes an independent risk factor for cardiac disease. The main objective is to find the association between lipid profile, arterial stiffness, and psoriasis among female patients. Materials and Methods: Female patients with psoriasis in the age group of 20–50 years were selected. The duration of the study was 1 year. For lipid profile, after 12 h of fasting, 5 mL of blood was taken and analyzed by kit method using Transasia RX 1000. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentrations were estimated using the Friedewald formula. Arterial stiffness was measured using an oscillometric noninvasive arteriography. Right brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (RbaPWV), left brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (LbaPWV), and carotid femoral pulse wave velocity were measured in cm/s. Results: In the present study, 28% of the females were &lt;38 years and 44% of females were in the range of 39–46 years. The mean value of cholesterol was (263.66 ± 47.74), Triglyceride (188.38 ± 27.56), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (50.06 ± 18.05) LDL (171.60 ± 33.98), and very LDL (89.74 ± 13.361) mg/dL, respectively. Significant correlation was found between LbaPWV and Psoriasis (0.03), HDL and psoriasis (0.04), and psoriasis and RbaPWV (0.01). Conclusion: We conclude that psoriasis patients have hyperlipidemia, which will increase arterial stiffness and may lead to cardiovascular disorders (CVDs). Variables such as lipid profiles and arterial stiffness may be used as screening tools for the early detection of CVDs.

Lipoprotein Metabolism, Dyslipidemia, and Lipid-Lowering Therapy in Women: A Comprehensive Review.

Lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) is a cornerstone of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention. Although LLT might lead to different reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in women and men, LLT diminishes cardiovascular risk equally effectively in both sexes. Despite similar LLT efficacy, the use of high-intensity statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors is lower in women compared to men. Women achieve the guideline-recommended LDL-C levels less often than men. Greater cholesterol burden is particularly prominent in women with familial hypercholesterolemia. In clinical practice, women and men with dyslipidemia present with different cardiovascular risk profiles and disease manifestations. The concentrations of LDL-C, lipoprotein(a), and other blood lipids differ between women and men over a lifetime. Dissimilar levels of LLT target molecules partially result from sex-specific hormonal and genetic determinants of lipoprotein metabolism. Hence, to evaluate a potential need for sex-specific LLT, this comprehensive review (i) describes the impact of sex on lipoprotein metabolism and lipid profile, (ii) highlights sex differences in cardiovascular risk among patients with dyslipidemia, (iii) presents recent, up-to-date clinical trial and real-world data on LLT efficacy and safety in women, and (iv) discusses the diverse medical needs of women and men with dyslipidemia and increased cardiovascular risk.

Impact of the ketogenic diet as a dietary approach on cardiovascular disease risk factors: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BackgroundCardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality globally, and the scarcity of scientific evidence regarding the impact of ketogenic diets on CVD risk factors necessitates urgent attention and redress. ObjectivesThis meta-analysis evaluates the impact of the ketogenic diet on CVD risk factors compared with control diets through randomized controlled trials (RCTs). MethodsThe study was registered in advance in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023491853). A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library to identify relevant RCTs. Fixed and random effects were employed to calculate the mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for changes in CVD risk factors pre- and postketogenic diet intervention. ResultsA total of 27 RCTs with 1278 participants were analyzed. The ketogenic diet intervention presented increase in total cholesterol (mean differences: 0.36 mmol/L; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.57; I2: 85.1%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (mean differences: 0.35 mmol/L; 95% CI: 0.20, 0.50; I2: 73.9%) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (mean differences: 0.16 mmol/L; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.23; I2: 86.7%) concentrations. Reductions were observed in the triglyceride (mean differences: −0.20 mmol/L; 95% CI: −0.29, −0.11; I2: 72.2%), blood glucose (mean differences: −0.18 mmol/L; 95% CI: −0.33, −0.02; I2: 76.4%), blood insulin (mean differences: −8.32 pmol/L; 95% CI: −14.52, −2.12; I2: 81.5%), diastolic blood pressure (mean differences: −1.41 mmHg; 95% CI: −2.57, −0.26; I2: 49.1%), weight (mean differences: −2.59 kg; 95% CI: −3.90, −1.28; I2: 87.4%), and body mass index (mean differences: −1.59 kg/m2; 95% CI: −2.32, −0.86; I2: 84.5%) concentrations after implementing ketogenic diets. ConclusionsAlthough the ketogenic diet demonstrates benefits in terms of triglyceride, blood pressure, weight, and glycemic control, its impact on CVD risk factors, especially the elevated total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, warrants a cautious approach.

Genetic proxy of lipid-lowering drugs and calcific aortic valve stenosis: A Mendelian randomization study

BackgroundLipid metabolism plays an important role in the pathogenesis and development of calcific aortic valve stenosis. Our aim was to evaluate the causal effect of lipid-lowering drugs, such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering and triglyceride lowering drugs, on the outcome of aortic valve stenosis using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study. MethodsWe used two genetic tools to represent the exposure of lipid-lowering drugs, including expression quantitative trait loci for the expression of drug target genes, and genetic variants within or near drug target genes that are associated with LDL-C and triglyceride concentrations from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). Effect estimates were calculated using summary-data-based MR (SMR) and inverse-variance-weighted MR (IVW-MR) analysis. ResultsBased on the results of SMR and IVW-MR analysis, LDL-C-lowering PCSK9 inhibitors have potential in reducing the risk of aortic valve stenosis (for SMR, OR: 1.044; 95%CI: 1.002–1.404; P = 0.047; for IVW-MR, OR: 1.647, 95%CI: 1.316–2.062, P < 0.001). However, no significant association was observed between triglyceride target gene expression, as well as triglyceride-lowering drugs, and aortic valve stenosis. ConclusionThis two-sample drug-targeted MR study suggests a potential causal relationship between PCSK9 inhibitors and the reduction of calcific aortic valve stenosis risk.

Effects of Physical Activity on Blood Lipids and Hemoglobin A1c in Healthy Pregnant Women: The FitMum Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveMaternal blood lipid and glucose concentrations during pregnancy affect fetal growth and the risk of pregnancy and delivery complications.We aimed to investigate the effects of physical activity (PA) during pregnancy on maternal blood lipid and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) concentrations. We hypothesized that higher PA was associated with improved lipid profile and glycemic control. MethodsIn a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, we included 216 pregnant women before week 15 + 0 and tested the effects of two different PA interventions throughout pregnancy compared to standard care on maternal blood lipid and HbA1c concentrations. Additionally, we investigated the effect of PA per se measured by an activity tracker. Total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride, and HbA1c concentrations were measured at week ≤15 + 0, 28+0-6, 34+0-6, and at delivery (week 32 + 1 to 42 + 0). Effects of the interventions and PA per se were tested using linear mixed effects models and linear regression analyses, respectively. ResultsNo effects of the PA interventions were detected on maternal lipids or HbA1c during pregnancy. In PA per se analyses, more minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA were associated with less increase in TC (−1.3E-04, P = .020) and LDL-C (−8.5E-05, P = .035) as pregnancy progresses. More active kilocalories were associated with less increase in TC (−5.5E-05, P < .001), HDL-C (−9.5E-06, P = .024), and LDL-C (−3.2E-05, P = .005). ConclusionWhilst there were no effects of offering PA interventions, higher PA was associated with reduced increases in TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C as pregnancy progressed.

Joselito® and lowering of LDL-cholesterol concentration, blood pressure, and reduction of coronary heart disease risk: Evaluation of a health claim pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.

Following an application from Cárnicas Joselito S.A. pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of Spain, the Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to 'Joselito ham increases antioxidant substances in the body, reduces blood pressure and plasma triglycerides, decreases oxidative stress and prevents effect in diseases related to the cardiovascular and intestinal systems'. The scope of the application was proposed to fall under a health claim referring to disease risk reduction. The food constituent that is the subject of the health claim is Joselito, an Iberian ham characterised by a high content of oleic acid. The Panel considers that the food is sufficiently characterised. The Panel considers that lowering of LDL-cholesterol concentration and blood pressure is a beneficial effect by decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease. Upon a request from EFSA, the applicant identified one human intervention study as being pertinent to the claim. However, due to methodological limitations, the Panel considers that no conclusions can be drawn from this study for the scientific substantiation of the claim. The Panel notes that no human intervention studies from which conclusions could be drawn for the scientific substantiation of the claim were provided by the applicant. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the intake of Joselito® ham and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol concentration or blood pressure.

A multitissue transcriptomic analysis reveals a potential mechanism whereby Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 promotes broiler growth

Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 has been shown to improve broiler growth performance and immunity. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of B. laterosporus S62-9 on the immunity and lipid metabolism of broilers by means of transcriptomic analysis. A total of 160 1-day-old broilers were randomly allocated to a S62-9 group, the diet of which was supplemented with 106 CFU/g B. laterosporus S62-9 daily, and a control group, which was not. After 42 d of feeding, the broilers in the S62-9 group had higher body mass (7.2%) and feed conversion ratio (5.19%) than the control group. Supplementation with B. laterosporus S62-9 resulted in lower serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations and higher high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations. An analysis of the fatty acid composition of the broiler's thigh muscles revealed that the proportions of the unsaturated fatty acids myristoleic acid (C14:1) and arachidonic acid (C20:1) were higher for birds in the S62-9 group. Transcriptomic analysis also showed an upregulation of immunity-related genes in the S62-9 group. Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis showed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway was enriched in the liver, the defense response was enriched in the duodenum, and immunoglobulin-related entries were enriched in the jejunum of the S62-9 group. Furthermore, the expression of key genes involved in unsaturated fatty acid synthesis (SCD, encoding stearoyl-CoA desaturase) and fatty acid metabolism (HACD2, encoding 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydratase 2) was upregulated in the liver, and the expression of genes associated with fat biosynthesis and accumulation, such as PLIN1, encoding perilipin 1, and FABP4, encoding fatty acid binding protein 4, was upregulated in the ileum of the birds in the S62-9 group. In summary, supplementation with B. laterosporus S62-9 could improve immune defense and the fatty acid metabolism of broiler chickens, thereby enhancing their disease resistance and promoting growth and development.

Prevalence of Abnormal Lipid Profile Among Obese People in Mogadisho, Somalia

Background: A lipid profile includes total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and calculated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Obesity is defined as excess body weight, and dyslipidemia is abnormal blood concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. HDL carries only one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol, while triglycerides store excess energy. Objective: The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of abnormal lipid profile among obesity people in Mogadishu Somali. Materials and Methods: A cross- sectional study was performed at selected hospitals. A total of 150 participants was enrolled in this study. 4 ml of venous blood sample was collected from each participant after taking informed written consent from the participants. Serum level of lipid profile test will be measured by using (AOUTUMATED CHEMISTRY MACHINE) techniques to evaluate lipid profile test status. Data analysis was done with statistical package for data analysis (spss). Results: Among the of 150 participants the predominant age group was 20-30 years (42.7%), followed age group 31- 40 years 20%, and &gt;50 years 20.7%. There was also age groups of 41-50 years (16.7%). According to their level of obesity, out of the 150 participants, 104(69.3%) were class I obesity 25-29.9BMI, 36(24%) were class II obesity 30-35BMI and the last 10(6.7%) were class III obesity &gt;35BMI. In our study, according to laboratory diagnosis, maximum respondents were normal 58(38.7%) followed by 51(34%) were on the border line (HDL&lt;43.7 mg/dl) and 41(27.3%) were abnormal. Conclusion: The data concluded that the majority of the participants were normal, and also there was abnormal and border line. we do statistically significant, we have found that there’s association between abnormal lipid profile and obesity level where the p-value was 0.006.

Cholesin receptor signalling is active in cardiovascular system-associated adipose tissue and correlates with SGLT2i treatment in patients with diabetes

BackgroundRecently deorphanized G protein-coupled receptor 146 (GPR146) was shown to respond to signal from a newly identified hormone—cholesin—and to play a role in hepatic lipid metabolism. However, the importance of its biological activity in human organism remains elusive, mainly due to the lack of studies on human tissues up to this point. This study aimed to identify the cholesin receptor-associated genes and clinical factors linked with their expression in cardiovascular system and associated adipose tissues.MethodsRight cardiac auricle, aortic wall, saphenous vein, and adipose tissue (periaortic-PAT, epicardial-EAT, thymic-TAT) samples were collected during coronary artery bypass grafting. Clinical records of the study participants were assessed for the presence of diabetes, medications taken and serum cholesterol levels. GPR146 mRNA expression in all gathered tissues was assessed with qPCR, and RNA seqencing was performed in selected tissues of 20 individuals to identify pathways associated with GPR146 expression.ResultsWe included 46 participants [37 male, 23 with type 2 diabetes, median age 68.50 (Q1–Q3: 63.00–72.00) years, BMI 28.39 (26.06–31.49) kg/m2]. GPR146 expression in adipose tissues significantly correlated with BMI, c-peptide, total cholesterol, and LDL concentrations. Selected metabolic pathways were significantly and positively enriched in GPR146-dependent manner. GPR146-coexpressed genes contained key regulators of lipid metabolism involved in such pathways as fatty acid metabolism, tricarboxilic acid cycle and peroxisomal metabolism. Those genes correlated positively with serum concentrations of LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol. SGLT2i treatment was associated with inversion of GPR146-related signature in EAT, suggesting potential impact on cholesin-GPR146 network.ConclusionsGPR146 expression is associated with serum lipids and metabolically-relevant transcriptomic changes in EAT similar to SGLT2i-associated ones.Graphical abstract

The role of PCSK9 in heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases-mechanisms of action beyond its effect on LDL cholesterol.

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9) is a protein that regulates low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol metabolism by binding to the hepatic LDL receptor (LDLR), ultimately leading to its lysosomal degradation and an increase in LDL cholesterol (LDLc) levels. Treatment strategies have been developed based on blocking PCSK9 with specific antibodies (alirocumab, evolocumab) and on blocking its production with small regulatory RNA (siRNA) (inclisiran). Clinical trials evaluating these drugs have confirmed their high efficacy in reducing serum LDLc levels and improving the prognosis in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Most studies have focused on the action of PCSK9 on LDLRs and the subsequent increase in LDLc concentrations. Increasing evidence suggests that the adverse cardiovascular effects of PCSK9, particularly its atherosclerotic effects on the vascular wall, may also result from mechanisms independent of its effects on lipid metabolism. PCSK9 induces the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines contributing to inflammation within the vascular wall and promotes apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes and is thus involved in the development and progression of heart failure. The elimination of PCSK9 may, therefore, not only be a treatment for hypercholesterolaemia but also for atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. The mechanisms of action of PCSK9 in the cardiovascular system are not yet fully understood. This article reviews the current understanding of the mechanisms of PCSK9 action in the cardiovascular system and its contribution to cardiovascular diseases. Knowledge of these mechanisms may contribute to the wider use of PCSK9 inhibitors in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Comparative effectiveness of different methods of prescribing rosuvastatin and ezetimibe in combination with PCSK9 inhibitors

Objective: comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of combined lipid-lowering therapy with rosuvastatin and ezetimibe in fixed and separate combinations with PCSK9 inhibitors in patients with very high cardiovascular risk.Materials and methods: 65 study participants were divided into 2 groups depending on the method of combined lipid-lowering therapy and were observed for 5 months on 6 visits. The effectiveness of the hypolipidemic response in each of the studied groups was evaluated.Results: in the group with separate administration of lipid-lowering drugs, the target values of LDL cholesterol reached 50% of patients, the level of LDL cholesterol during 5 months of treatment decreased by 38.22% from 2.25 [1.82; 2.47] mmol/l to 1.39 [1.21; 1.59] mmol/l (p &lt;0.001). In the group with a fixed combination of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe, 61.29% of the study participants reached the target ranges of LDL cholesterol, the concentration of LDL cholesterol decreased by 47.46% from 2.36 [1.92; 2.57] mmol/l to 1.24 [1.18; 1.56] mmol/l (p &lt;0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association of females with a higher risk of not reaching the target ranges of LDL cholesterol (χ2&lt;0.001; OR 0.13 95 % CI 0.04-0.39; p&lt;0.001).Conclusion: the use of a fixed combination of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe in combination with PCSK9 inhibitors in patients with very high cardiovascular risk makes it possible to reduce the concentration of LDL cholesterol by 9.24% more intensively relative to the drug regimen with separate administration of drugs.

Evaluating the Effects of Corn Flour Product Consumption on Cardiometabolic Outcomes and the Gut Microbiota in Adults with Elevated Cholesterol: A Randomized Crossover

BackgroundConsumption of whole grains is associated with a reduction in chronic diseases and offers benefits for cardiovascular health and metabolic regulation. The relationship between whole-grain corn and corn bran with the gut microbiota (GM) remains an area of growing interest, particularly regarding their influence on cardiometabolic health. ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of different corn flours on cardiometabolic outcomes and GM changes in adults with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) concentrations. MethodsIn this crossover study, 36 adults with LDL cholesterol above 110 mg/dL consumed 48 g/d of 3 corn flour types for 4 wk: whole-grain corn meal, refined corn meal (RCM), and a blend of RCM and corn bran (RCM + B). We assessed the impact on cardiometabolic markers [LDL cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL cholesterol), total cholesterol, and triglycerides)] and GM composition and estimated function. Statistical analyses included mixed-effects modeling and responder (>5% decrease in LDL cholesterol) analysis to evaluate changes in GM related to lipid profile improvements. ResultsOf the 3 corn flour types, only RCM + B significantly decreased LDL cholesterol over time (–10.4 ± 3.6 mg/dL, P = 0.005) and marginally decreased total cholesterol (–9.2 ± 3.9 mg/dL, P = 0.072) over time. There were no significant effects on HDL cholesterol or triglyceride concentrations. No significant changes were observed in GM alpha diversity, whereas beta diversity metrics indicated individual variability. Two genera, unclassified Lachnospiraceae and Agathobaculum (Padj ≤ 0.096), differed significantly by treatment, but only Agathobaculum remained significantly elevated in the whole-grain corn meal, compared to RCM and RCM + B, after adjustment for multiple comparisons. ConclusionsThe type of corn flour, particularly RCM + B, notably influenced LDL cholesterol concentrations in adults with elevated LDL cholesterol. This study suggests that incorporating milled fractions (e.g., bran) of whole-grain corn with refined corn flour may be a viable alternative to supplementing manufactured grain products with isolated or synthetic fibers for improved metabolic health.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03967990.

Dyslipidaemia in women with polycystic ovary syndrome referred to a teaching hospital in Cape Town, South Africa.

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) imparts health risks including dyslipidaemia, diabetes and cardiovascular disease that are amenable to lifestyle adjustment and/or medication. We describe dyslipidaemia in women referred to a gynaecological endocrine clinic. Clinical data and endocrine and lipoprotein investigations comprising fasting triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and calculated low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) were studied along with electrophoresis patterns of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. The 1721 participants comprised black, mixed ancestry, white and Indian individuals (9.8%, 83.2%, 5.8% and 1.2%, respectively). The mean ± standard deviation of the age, body mass index (BMI) and waist/hip ratio were 26.0 ± 5.9 years, 32.3 ± 8.3 kg/m2 and waist/hip ratio 0.88 ± 0.11, respectively. Overweight status (BMI 26-30 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI >30 kg/m2) involved 272 (15.8%) and 1010 (58.7%) individuals, respectively. Morbid obesity (BMI >40 kg/m2) was present in 309 (17.9%) individuals. The TG, TC, HDLC and LDLC concentrations were 1.22 ± 0.86, 4.77 ± 1.02, 1.3 ± 0.36, 2.94 ± 0.94 mmol/L, respectively. LDL hypercholesterolaemia occurred in 753 (43.7%) and exceeded 5 mmol/L in 39 (2.3%) women. Low HDLC (<0.9 mmol/L) affected 122 (7%), hypertriglyceridaemia (>1.7 mmol/L) affected 265 (15.4%) and exceeded 2.5 mmol/L in 91 (5.3%) women. Mixed hyperlipidaemia (TG >1.7, TC >5.0 mmol/L) occurred in 176 (10.2%). Electrophoresis revealed small LDL particles in 79 (4.6%) and dysbetalipoproteinaemia in 13 (0.76%) of the cohort. Small LDL associated with obesity, blood pressure, TG and glucose concentration and higher androgenic state. Many women with PCOS had unfavourable lipoprotein results: mostly moderate changes in TG, HDLC and LDLC. Small LDL is not rare, may aid risk assessment and is best determined directly. Incidental monogenic disorders of lipoprotein metabolism included dysbetalipoproteinaemia, familial hypercholesterolaemia and severe hypertriglyceridaemia. Dyslipidaemia in PCOS requires more careful diagnosis, individualised management and research.

Associations of retinal microvascular alterations with diabetes mellitus: an OCTA-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundDiabetes, a health crisis afflicting millions worldwide, is increasing rapidly in prevalence. The microvascular complications triggered by diabetes have emerged as the principal cause of renal disease and blindness. The retinal microvascular network may be sensitive to early systemic vascular structural and functional changes. Therefore, this research endeavored to discern the systemic determinants influencing the retinal microvascular network in patients with and without diabetes.MethodsThe Kailuan Eye Study is a cross-sectional study based on the community-based cohort Kailuan Study. Participants underwent optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) (Zeiss Cirrus 5000; Carl Zeiss Meditec) and comprehensive systemic examination. Metrics such as perfusion density (PD), vascular density (VD), foveal avascular zone (FAZ) parameters of the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) in the macula were assessed.ResultsThis study included 860 eligible participants (average age = 62.75 ± 6.52 years; 21.9% female), of which 449 were diabetics. People with diabetes had diminished PD and VD in the entire macular and parafoveal regions compared to people without diabetes. Reduced PD in the whole macular region was correlated with higher fasting plasma glucose (FPG, mmol/L) concentration (Beta = -0.19, 95% CI = -0.42 to -0.36, P < 0.001), longer axial length (AL, mm) (Beta = -0.13, 95%CI = -0.48 to -0.25, P = 0.002), and elevated heart rate (Beta = -0.10, 95%CI = -0.14 to -0.19, P = 0.014), after adjusting for younger age (Beta = -0.18, 95%CI = -0.24 to -0.35, P < 0.001), consistent with VD of the whole macular region. A higher FPG level was significantly correlated with lower SCP density of both PD and VD in the macular and parafoveal region (P < 0.05 for all), as well as increased systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration (P < 0.01 for all).ConclusionsIn this large-sample cross-sectional study, OCTA evaluation revealed that high prevalence of diabetes and elevated FPG levels were correlated with reduced retinal VD and PD. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia are important risk factors for the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease but have no significant effect on retinal microvascular abnormalities.

Generation of two familial hypercholesterolemia patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell lines harboring heterozygous mutations in the LDLR gene

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder affecting the metabolism of lipoprotein, characterized by elevated levels of plasma concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC). The most common FH cause is mutations within the gene that encodes for the LDL receptor (LDLR) protein. Two induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines were generated from patients with FH, each carrying a single heterozygous mutation in the LDLR gene, one is a missense mutation, c.631C > T, and the other is a splice-site mutation, c.313 + 1G > A. Both iPSC lines exhibited strong expression of pluripotency markers, demonstrated the ability to differentiate into derivatives of the three germ layers, and maintained normal karyotypes. These derived iPSC lines represent powerful tools for in vitro modeling FH and offer a promising platform for therapeutic development.

Mechanism of Yupingfeng Powder on hepatic insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats by regulating IRS/PI3K/Akt pathway

Based on the insulin receptor substrate(IRS)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt) pathway, the intervention effect of Yupingfeng Powder on type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) rats was studied, and the potential mechanism of improving T2DM hepatic insulin resistance was explored. A T2DM rat model was established by feeding with high-fat and high-sugar feed combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Successfully modeled rats were selected and divided into a model group, a positive control group(MET), and a Yupingfeng Powder group. At the same time, a blank group was set up, and corresponding drugs were given by gavage. The model group and blank group were given an equal amount of physiological saline by gavage. During the experiment, body mass and fasting blood glucose were regularly measured, and glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance were measured at the end of the experiment. After the experiment, the levels of blood glucose, insulin, blood lipids, and related liver function indicators were measured; changes in liver pathological damage were observed, levels of liver monoamine oxidase were detected, and qRT-PCR was used to detect mRNA expression levels of IRS/PI3K/Akt pathway related genes. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group had an increase in body weight, a decrease in fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and steady-state model evaluation index, a decrease in the area under the curve of glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests, a decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol content, and an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol content. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group showed a decrease in liver monoamine oxidase levels, a decrease in serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin levels, and an increase in total protein and albumin levels. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining showed a reduction in pathological liver cell damage. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group showed a significant increase in the mRNA expression levels of IRS1, PI3K, and Akt in the liver of rats, as well as a significant decrease in the mRNA expression levels of interleukin-6(IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α). This indicates that Yupingfeng Powder can regulate the IRS/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, increase insulin sensitivity, improve hepatic insulin resistance, and thus play a therapeutic role in T2DM.

Remnant Cholesterol and Carotid Intraplaque Neovascularization Assessed by Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography in Patients With Ischemic Stroke.

We investigated the relationship between remnant cholesterol and carotid intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) assessed by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in patients with ischemic stroke. This was a single-center study. Remnant cholesterol is calculated as total cholesterol minus low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) minus high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). All patients underwent CEUS. IPN is graded according to the presence and location of microbubbles within each plaque. The cohort included 110 patients with ischemic stroke. Patients with an IPN grading of 2 had higher triglyceride (TG), non-HDL-C, and remnant cholesterol concentrations than those with an IPN grading of < 2 (TG: 1.45 ± 0.69 vs. 0.96 ± 0.24 mmol/L, P < 0.001; non-HDL-C: 2.63 ± 0.85 vs. 2.31 ± 0.64 mmol/L, P = 0.037; remnant cholesterol: 0.57 ± 0.23 vs. 0.44 ± 0.07 mmol/L, P < 0.001). The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for remnant cholesterol was 27.728 (2.714 - 283.253) for an IPN grading of 2 in the subset of patients with an optimal LDL-C concentration. The remnant cholesterol concentration is significantly associated with carotid IPN on CEUS in patients with ischemic stroke with an optimal LDL-C concentration. Remnant cholesterol may be an important indicator of risk stratification in patients with ischemic stroke.