Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels Research Articles

The physiological Effects of Royal Jelly Administration on Hypercholesterolemic Male Albino Rats

Hypercholesterolaemia disorder is characterized by very high level of cholesterol in the blood which is cardiovascular health risk. Chemical compound Medicines have serious side effects that cause an imbalance in the body’s functions. Therefore, utilization of natural compounds could be an alternative concept in the treatment of diseases, as they have no side effects on human health. The present work aims to evaluate the physiological effects of royal jelly (RJ) on the hypercholestrolaemic male albino rats. Forty-two male albino rats were divided into six groups. Rats were treated with coconut oil, cholesterol (450 mg/kg b.w of cholesterol dissolved in 0.5 ml coconut oil) for four weeks, RJ treated group (300 mg/kg b.wt) for two weeks, RJ before and after cholesterol treated groups. Serum cholesterol showed significant increased levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), and significant decrease in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), antioxidant enzymes, nitric oxide (NO) and vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) compared with those of control and other treated groups. Royal jelly administration reduced the high levels of LDL-C, VLDL-C, TG and TC because of cholesterolaemia. Also, RJ could improve the levels of HDL-C, serum antioxidant enzymes, NO and VEGF. Treatment with RJ before and after cholesterol could help to return serum NO, VEGF levels toward control values and causes significant decrease in LDL-C level and significant increase in HDL-C level compared to control group. In conclusion, RJ ameliorates the harmful effects of cholesterol administration on male albino rats and plays an important role in cardiovascular health protection

Association of very Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol with All-cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Peritoneal Dialysis

Background/Aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in dialysis patients. Little is known about the relationship between very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and cardiovascular mortality in these patients. Methods: A total of 1324 incident patients who began continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) therapy at our hospital between January 1, 2005, and September 30, 2014, with baseline serum VLDL-C values were investigated. The associations of the VLDL-C levels with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality were assessed. Results: The mean age of the cohort was 50.2 ± 14.8 years, and the mean VLDL-C level was 33.6 ± 18.0 mg/dl. One hundred sixty-five (12.5%) patients died during the study period. Multivariable models revealed that the high VLDL-C group was associated with significantly higher all-cause (HR, 2.08, 95% CI, 1.13 to 3.29, P = 0.002) and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.92, 95% CI, 1.18 to 4.29, P = 0.013) compared with the low VLDL-C group even after adjusting for various covariates. Using the VLDL-C level as a continuous variable, the hazard ratios (HRs) of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality associated with a 10-mg/dl increase in VLDL-C level were 1.12 (95% CI, 1.02 to 1.26, P = 0.025) and 1.11 (95% CI, 1.02 to 1.22, P = 0.029), respectively. VLDL-C was associated more strongly to all-cause (e.g., Akaike information criteria of 1990.205 vs. 1994.451) and cardiovascular (e.g., Akaike information criteria of 984.146 vs. 985.634) mortality than triglyceride (TG) levels. Conclusions: An elevated VLDL-C level is an independent risk factor for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Comparison of the Hypoglycemic, Hypolipidemic and Hepatoprotective Effects of<i> Asparagus racemosus</i> Linn. in Combination with Gliclazide and Pioglitazone on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

In recent years, the popularity of medicinal plants as a remedy has been increased manifold due to having minimal adverse effects. The current study aimed to compare the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of the ethanolic extract of Asparagus racemosus (EEAR) Linn. alone and combinedly with conventional antidiabetic agents (gliclazide and pioglitazone) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in male Wister albino rats by the administration of single intra-peritoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg b.w.). Effect of oral administration of two different doses of EEAR (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.), gliclazide (10 mg/kg b.w.) and pioglitazone (10 mg/70kg/b.w.) alone for 2 weeks and a combination of EEAR (200 mg/kg b.w.) with either gliclazide (10 mg/kg b.w.) or pioglitazone (10 mg/70kg/b.w.) for 2 weeks were examined on hypoglycemic activity on 0th, 5th, 10th and 14th day of treatment. After 2 weeks of treatment, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects were estimated by serum biochemical markers such as total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminases (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate trans-aminases (SGPT) and total protein (TP) with the help of commercially available kits. The survival rate, body weight and organ weight were also measured. Alloxan treatment resulted in persistent hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and liver dysfunction in rats. Treatment with EEAR at different doses improved hyperglycemia significantly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01; p < 0.05) by reducing the blood glucose levels in rats on 10th and 14th day of treatment in a dose-dependent mood when compared to the disease control rats, gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats. The combination therapy significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001) promoted the glucose-lowering activity on 5th, 10th and 14th day of treatment as compared to that of disease control rats, gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats. Proposed adjunct therapy also markedly (p < 0.001; p < 0.01, p < 0.001) improved serum TG, HDL and LDL level with insignificant change in VLDL and TC level while comparing with groups receiving gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats. Administration of different doses of EEAR markedly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01; p < 0.05) reduced the activity of TC, TG, LDL, VLDL and HDL cholesterol levels in a dose-dependent approach with respect to that of gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats. The effect of combination therapy significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.001; p < 0.01, p < 0.001) decreased the SGOT, SGPT and TP hepatic enzyme levels when compared to disease control rats, gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats indicated improvement in liver dysfunctions. Administration of different doses of EEAR noticeably (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01; p < 0.05, p < 0.01) reduced the liver enzymes level including SGOT, SGPT and TP in a dose-dependent manner as compared to the disease control rats, gliclazide treated rats and pioglitazone treated rats. The maximum survival rate (100%) was observed in rats of combination treated rats. No significant changes in the body weight and organ weight to body weight ratio were observed except the groups that were given combined therapy showed improvement in the liver and pancreas weight. Our study suggests that the EEAR potentiates the activity of gliclazide and pioglitazone in controlling blood glucose levels, modifies the lipid profile and improves in liver dysfunction on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Asparagus racemosus Linn. Potentiates the Hypolipidemic and Hepatoprotective Activity of Fenofibrate in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus is strongly connected with changes in lipid profile and also can cause damage of several organs like liver over a long period of time. The purpose of this study was designed to evaluate the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of ethanolic root extracts of Asparagus racemosus (EEAR) Linn. alone and in combination with a lipid lowering agent (fenofibrate) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in male Wister albino rats by the administration of single intra-peritoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg b.w.). Two different doses of EEAR (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.) alone, fenofibrate (30 mg/kg b.w.) and a combination of EEAR (200 mg/kg b.w.) with fenofibrate (30 mg/kg b.w.) were administered orally for the period of 14 days. After the treatment period, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects were determined by examining serum biochemical markers including total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminases (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminases (SGPT) and total protein (TP) with the aid of commercially available kits. The survival rate, body weight and organ weight were also measured. The ingestion of EEAR considerably (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01) modified the activity of TC, TG, LDL, VLDL and HDL cholesterol levels when compared to the disease control and fenofibrate treated rats. The administration of combination therapy significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.001) improved the activity of TC, TG, LDL, VLDL and HDL levels when compared to that of disease control and fenofibrate treated rats. The rats treated with EEAR markedly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05) reduced the level of SGOT, SGPT and TP as compared to the disease control and fenofibrate treated rats. The suggested combination therapy significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.001) decreased the level of SGOT, SGPT and TP when compared to that of disease control and fenofibrate treated rats indicated amelioration in liver dysfunctions. The maximum survival rate was 100% found in combination therapy. During treatment period, it was observed that the considerable (p < 0.01, p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001) changes in the body weight were found in the EEAR treated rats and combination therapy on 10th and 14th day as compared to that of disease control and fenofibrate treated rats. In case of organs weight, the weight of the liver and weight of the pancreas were significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001) decreased in the rats treated with highest dose of EEAR (Alx+ EEAR 400) and combination therapy when compared to the disease control and fenofibrate treated rats. The current study demonstrates that combination therapy of EEAR and fenofibrate was more effective than that of monotherapy in controlling diabetes mellitus associated with cardiovascular diseases and hepatic dysfunction in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Influence of coumarin and some coumarin derivatives on serum lipid profiles in carbontetrachloride-exposed rats.

In the present study, coumarin and some coumarin derivatives (esculetin, scoparone, and 4-methylumbelliferone) were investigated for their lipid-lowering effect in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (150-200 g) were divided into six groups and each group comprised of five rats. Hepatic injury-dependent hyperlipidemia was induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 1.25 ml/kg). Coumarin and coumarin derivatives esculetin (35 mg/kg), scoparone (35 mg/kg), 4-methylumbelliferone (35 mg/kg), or coumarin (30 mg/kg) were administered to experimental groups at 12-h intervals. Animals received the derivatives esculetin, scoparone or 4-methylumbelliferone prior to the administration of a single toxic dose of CCl4. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels significantly increased in CCl4-treated group ( p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.01, and p < 0.05, respectively), while levels of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) decreased ( p < 0.01). 4-Methylumbelliferone had no recovery effects on serum TC levels, however, significantly prevented CCl4-induced hyperlipidemia by reducing TG and VLDL-C levels ( p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively). In addition, coumarin had no recovery effect on any of the serum lipid parameters against CCl4-induced hyperlipidemia. Among the coumarin derivatives only esculetin and scoparone significantly prevented serum HDL-C in CCl4-induced dyslipidemia. The results from this study indicate that the chemical structure of coumarins plays an important role on the regulation of serum lipid profiles.

Association between plasma PCSK9 levels and 10-year progression of carotid atherosclerosis beyond LDL-C: A cohort study

BackgroundTo evaluate the association of plasma proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels with the progression of carotid atherosclerosis and identify additional PCSK9-lipoprotein-atherosclerosis pathway beyond low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). MethodsAmong 643 participants (aged from 45 to 74years) free of cardiovascular disease at baseline, carotid ultrasound examinations were performed in 2002 (baseline) and 2012 (follow-up). None of the participants were taking lipid-lowering drugs or had detectable carotid plaques at baseline. Carotid plaque formation and total plaque area (TPA) were used to reflect 10-year progression of atherosclerosis. ResultsBaseline plasma PCSK9 levels have a wide variation, ranged from 64.60–532.20ng/mL (median: 192.57ng/mL). PCSK9 levels were significantly associated with new plaque formation after adjusting for LDL-C levels and other risk factors (relative risk for per quartile increase=1.09, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.15). PCSK9 levels were also linearly associated with TPA after multivariate adjustment including LDL-C (P=0.008). Among participants with the lowest or second tertile of LDL-C, PCSK9 quartiles were linearly associated with TPA (P=0.021), but the association lost significance after additional adjustment for very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) tertiles (P=0.072). Further stepwise linear regression (entry, 0.05; removal, 0.05) indicated that VLDL-C tertiles could be entered into the model but PCSK9 quartiles could not. ConclusionsPlasma PCSK9 levels are associated with 10-year progression of atherosclerosis. The LDL-independent association of PCSK9 levels may through its ability to regulate VLDL-C levels. Further research is needed to systematically investigate the role of PCSK9 for the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, beyond LDL-C metabolism.

Association of Circulating Serum miR-34a and miR-122 with Dyslipidemia among Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) covers a spectrum of diseases from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, with approximately 20% risk of progressing to fibrosis and cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to compare the relative expression levels of circulating miR-21, miR-34a, miR-122, miR-125b and miR-375 between healthy controls and NAFLD patients, and to assess the feasibility of microRNAs as potential biomarkers for NAFLD. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate circulating serum miRNAs as potential diagnostic markers for NAFLD. Twenty-eight clinically diagnosed and histologically-confirmed NAFLD patients, as well as 36 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The relative expression of serum microRNAs were calculated using the comparative cycle threshold with spiked-in C. elegans miR-39 as exogenous internal control. Serum levels of miR-34a and miR-122 were significantly higher in NAFLD patients than in healthy controls (P = <0.0001). Positive correlations were observed between serum miR-34a with very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and triglyceride levels. However, the expression levels of miR-34a and miR-122 did not correlate with the histological features of NAFLD. Interestingly, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that miR-34a and miR-122 are potential markers for discriminating NAFLD patients from healthy controls with an area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.781 and 0.858, respectively. Serum levels of miR-34a and miR-122 were found to be significantly higher among NAFLD patients, and were positively correlated with VLDL-C and triglyceride levels. Thus, circulating miR-34a and miR-122 can be used as potential biomarkers for discriminating NAFLD patients from healthy controls. Larger cohorts are required to validate the utility of miR-34a and miR-122 in monitoring liver injury.

Evaluation of &lt;i&gt;In vitro&lt;/i&gt; Antioxidant and &lt;i&gt;In vivo&lt;/i&gt; Antihyperlipidemic Activities of Methanol Extract of Aerial Part of &lt;i&gt;Crassocephalum crepidioides&lt;/i&gt; (Asteraceae) Benth S Moore

Purpose: To evaluate the antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities of the methanol extract of aerial part of Crassocephalum crepidioides (Asteraceae) Benth. S. Moore. Methods: The methanol extract of Crassocephalum crepidioides was prepared by organic solvent extraction (Maceration) and assessed for in vitro antioxidant activity using various methods, namely, 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, total phenol and flavonoid content and reducing capacity. The extract was also evaluated for antihyperlipidemic activity in high-fat diet and triton WR-100 (iso-octyl polyoxyethylene phenol)-induced hyperlipidemic albino rats by evaluating serum total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), triglycerides (TG), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) level and atherogenic index (AI). Results: The plant extract showed significant antioxidant activity in a dose-dependent manner. In highfat diet hyperlipedemic rats, the extract significantly reduced ( p < 0.01 or 0.001) serum TC, TG, LDL-c and VLDL-c levels, but significantly increased ( p < 0.05) serum HDL c level. In triton-induced hyperlipidemic rats, the extract significantly reduced ( p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001) serum TC, TG, LDLc, VLDL-c levels but significantly increased ( p < 0.05) serum HDL-c level. The extract showed significant reduction ( p < 0.01) in AI at 300 mg /kg/day dose in both high fat-induced (1.70 ± 0.25) and tritoninduced (1.5 ± 0.17) hyperlipidemic albino rats. Conclusion: Based on these findings, the extract of Crassocephalum crepidioides aids in lowering hyperlipidemia in rats. This is probably due to its antioxidant activity. Keywords: Antioxidant, Antihyperlipidemic, Crassocephalum crepidioides , Triton WR-100, Atherogenic index

Beneficial effects of melatonin and alpha lipoic acid on lopinavir/ ritonavir-induced alterations in serum lipid and glucose levels of male albino rats

The use of lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) has been associated with alterations in serum lipid and glucose levels. This study was designed to investigate the effects of melatonin (MT) and alpha lipoic acid (ALA) on LPV/r-induced changes in serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and glucose (GL) levels in male albino rats. Rats in group A1 (placebo control) and group A2 (solvent control) were orally treated with normal saline and 1% ethanol respectively. Groups B-F contained 15 rats each which were divided into 3 groups of 5 rats each. Rats in group B were orally treated with MT (10 mg kg-1/day), ALA (10 mg kg-1/day) and a combination of MT and ALA, accordingly. Rats in group C were orally treated with 22.9/5.71, 45.6/11.4 and 91.4/22.9 mg kg-1/day of LPV/r, accordingly. Rats in groups D-F were orally treated with MT (10 mg kg-1/ day), ALA (10 mg kg-1/day) and combined doses of ALA and MT before oral treatment with 22.9/5.71, 45.6/11.4 and 91.4/22.9 mg kg-1/day of LPV/r, accordingly. All rats were treated for 30 days and at the end of the drug treatment, the serum levels of lipid fractions and glucose were evaluated. Treatment with MT and ALA significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased baseline serum levels of TG, TC, VLDL-C, LDL-C and GL, but these parameters were significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased in a dose-dependent manner in LPV/r-treated rats when compared to placebo control. Administration of MT and ALA prior to treatment with LPV/r significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased serum levels of TG, TC, VLDL-C, LDL-C and GL when compared to LPV/r-treated rats. However, decreases obtained in rats pretreated with combined doses of MT and ALA were significantly (p&lt;0.05) different when compared to their individual doses. This study showed that MT and ALA can serve as remedies for LPV/r-induced alterations in serum lipid and glucose levels.

Hypolipidemic Activity of Prosopis cineraria L (Druce) Fruit Extract and Molecular Modeling Study with Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR)

Purpose: To investigate the hypolipidemic potential of the 70 % ethanol fruit extract of Prosopis cineraria (Fabaceae) (Et. PCF) in triton-induced hyperlipidemia in rats.Methods: Et-PCF was obtained by pulverizing whole dried fruits and extracting with 70 % ethanol. Adult Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups of six rats each. The groups were namely normal control, hyperlipidaemic control, standard drug-treated (simvastatin 4 mg/kg), and three Et-PCF (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg, respectively)-treated groups. Apart from normal control, all other groups received a single dose of triton (200 mg/kg, i.p.) exactly 30 min after a dose of the standard drug and Et-PCF for the induction of hyperlipidemia. Twenty four hours after trito injection, hyperlipidemia was confirmed by collecting blood samples from all the rats and testing for serum lipid profile. Antioxidant activity, in the form of inhibition of lipid peroxidation, was determined along with chromatographic analysis. Moreover, molecular docking study of â-sitosterol (active constitute of PCF) was performed with Farnesoid X receptor.Results: Triton-induced hyperlipidemia group showed significant increase in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL) , triglyceride, atherogenic index and decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), compared to normal control group. Et-PCF treated groups showed reduction in serum cholesterol, triglyceride, VLDL and LDL levels compared to triton treated control group. Extract at the dose of 200 mg/kg significantly reduce serum cholesterol (p &lt; 0.01) and serum LDL (p &lt; 0.01). At the dose level of 400 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg extract is effective to significantly reduce serum cholesterol (p &lt; 0.05), triglyceride (p &lt; 0.05), VLDL (p &lt; 0.05), LDL (p &lt; 0.05) and atherogenic index (p &lt; 0.05) and these results are almost equivalent to those of standard drug simvastatin. Furthermore, antioxidant activity, i.e., IC50 of Et-PCF was 58.33 ±g/ml. Molecular docking score of â-sitosterol for Farnesoid X receptor was -8.32 kcal/mol, suggesting excellent binding conformation of Et-PCF to receptor molecules.Conclusion: The findings suggest that Prosopis cineraria may be beneficial for preventing hyperlipidaemic complications by its anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities.Keywords: Prosopis cineraria, Anti-hyperlipidemic activity, Simvastatin, Triton, Docking studies, Farnesoid X receptor

Standard short-term diet ameliorates the lipid profile altered by a fructose-rich diet in rats.

Markers of metabolic abnormalities are commonly found in rodents fed a fructose-rich diet. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the administration of a short-term standard diet to rats is able to improve the lipid profile altered by a fructose-rich diet. The male pups, immediately after birth, were divided in three groups according to the diet for 90 days. Standard diet: a standard diet for the whole experimental period; fructose (60% fructose-rich diet): fructose-rich diet during the entire experimental period; fructose/standard (FS): fructose-rich diet from the neonatal period up to 60 days of age and standard diet from 60 to 90 days of age. A fructose-rich diet from the neonatal period to 60 days reduced weight gain (P<0.05), as well as the weight of adipose tissues in all the regions analyzed (epididymal, mesenteric, retroperitoneal and posterior subcutaneous), and it altered the lipid profile (elevation of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol; P<0.05). When a standard diet was administered after the fructose-rich diet, it was able to partially reverse changes to the lipid profile, as total cholesterol levels were significantly different in all the groups (P<0.05), and triglyceride and VLDL cholesterol levels were similar between the control and FS group. In summary, a fructose-rich diet altered the lipid profile, and a standard diet can partially reverse the changed parameters in short term.

Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of Vaccinium myrtillus fruit in experimentally induced diabetes (antidiabetic effect of Vaccinium myrtillus fruit).

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) is a useful plant with antidiabetic properties in traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of bilberry against DM. Diabetes was induced using intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (120 mg kg(-1) body weight (BW)). Bilberry powder (2 g d(-1)) and glibenclamide (positive control; 0.6 mg kg(-1) BW) were administered for 4 weeks following alloxan injection. Serum glucose, insulin, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), triglycerides (TG) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined at baseline and at 2nd and 4th week of the study. Bilberry supplementation resulted in a significant reduction of glucose compared with the diabetic control as well as glibenclamide treatment. Bilberry elevated insulin, reduced TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C and TG levels, and prevented HDL-C decline. Serum insulin, TC and LDL-C levels were not affected by glibenclamide, and CRP did not significantly change with either bilberry or glibenclamide. Histological examinations revealed a significant elevation of islet size in the bilberry and glibenclamide-treated groups. Dietary supplementation with bilberry fruits may protect against impaired glucose and lipid metabolism in DM.

Association between coffee consumption and serum lipid profile.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between coffee consumption and serum lipid levels in a study population of 122 Turkish subjects (mean age, 41.4±12.69 years), including 48 males and 74 females. A questionnaire was compiled to determine baseline characteristics, and food and coffee consumption. Subjects were divided into three groups, which included non-drinkers, Turkish coffee and instant coffee drinkers, and anthropometric measurements were acquired, including weight, height and body mass index. Serum lipid levels were analyzed, including the total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels. Of the population studied, 76.2% had consumed at least one cup of coffee per week over the previous year. Daily consumption values were 62.3±40.60 ml (0.7±0.50 cup) for Turkish coffee and 116.3±121.96 ml (0.7±0.81 cup) for instant coffee. No statistically significant differences were observed in the serum levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C or VLDL-C among the three groups. In addition, no statistically significant differences were observed in the serum lipid levels when comparing individuals who consumed coffee with sugar/cream or who smoked and those who did not (P>0.05). Therefore, the present observations indicated no significant association between the consumption of Turkish or instant coffee and serum lipid levels.

Effect of Green Lean Body Capsules on Body Weight, Lipid Profile, and Renal Physiology and Histology in Albino Rats

Background: Many anti-obesity medicines have been increased in recent years to solve the problem of obesity; among these medicines are Green Lean Body Capsules (GLBCs) which contain green plants and fruits extract.Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of daily oral consumption of GLBCs on level of serum lipids, renal function tests, and the histological structure of the kidney in albino rats.Materials and Methods: Twenty adult albino male rats weighing 240-260 g were divided into 2 equal groups: control group and GLBCs-treated group. During the 4-weeks treatment, each rat in the GLBCs-treated group was orally administered with 20 mg/kg B.W. of GLBCs, while the control rats were orally administered with 0.1 ml D.W. Body weights were monitored at the beginning and at the end of the experimental period. Lipid profile [total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), very lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)], renal function tests (blood urea and serum creatinine) ; in addition to the histological examination of the kidney wereevaluated in all the rats.Results: The results revealed that body weight gain was significantly (P&lt;0.05) less in the GLBCs-treated rats than in the control rats. Results of the lipid profile showed that the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and VLDL-C were significantly (P&lt;0.05) lower while the level of HDL-C was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher in the GLBCs-treated rats than that in the control rats. Regarding the renal function tests, the results revealed that blood urea and serum creatinine levels in the GLBCs-treated rats were significantly (P&lt;0.05) lower than that in the control rats. However, microscopic examination of the kidney revealed that both the control and the GLBCs-treated groups presented similar type of histological manifestations.Conclusion: The data presented in this study suggested that the compounds found in GLBCs may act synergistically to suppress body weight gain, decrease the level of serum lipids, and decrease the level of renal function tests without any histological abnormalities effect in the kidney.

Effect of crude-herb moxibustion on blood lipids in rats with dyslipidemia

ObjectiveTo evaluate the lipid-regulating effect of crude-herb moxibustion on rats with dyslipidemia. MethodsFifty-four Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups with nine rats each. Control group rats were fed a normal diet, and bilateral acu-point Fenglong (equivalent to ST40 in humans) on the hind legs were covered with a placebo (general mucilage) for 2 hours each day. Model group rats were fed a high-lipid diet for 2 weeks. Therapy group rats were fed a high-lipid diet for 2 weeks and then administered crude-herb moxibustion at ST40 for 2 hours each day for the next 2 weeks. Prevention group rats were administered crude-herb moxibustion 2 hours a day for 2 weeks and then fed a high-lipid diet for the subsequent 2 weeks. Prevention/Therapy group rats were each administered crude-herb moxibustion at ST40 for 2 hours each day for 2 weeks, followed by a high-lipid diet for the next 2 weeks, and then crude-herb moxibustion again at ST40 for another 2 weeks. Simvastatin group rats were fed a high-lipid diet for 2 weeks and then treated with simvastatin for the next 2 weeks. Blood lipids, hepatosomatic indices (HSIs) and epididymal fat pad weights of all rats were examined. ResultsCompared with the Model group, levels of total cholesterol (TC), glycerinate, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) in plasma collected from the Therapy group, the Prevention/Therapy group, and the Simvastatin group were decreased. Moreover, compared with the Model group, HSIs in Therapy group rats were also decreased following administration of crude-herb moxibustion, but TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL-C levels in the Prevention group were higher than those in the Model group. ConclusionThe results reveal that blood lipids and HSIs appear to be modulated by the effect of crude-herb moxibustion and suggest therapeutic strategies for the treatment of dyslipidemia.

Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol associates with coronary artery calcification in type 2 diabetes beyond circulating levels of triglycerides

ObjectiveWhile recent genomic studies have focused attention on triglyceride (TG) rich lipoproteins in cardiovascular disease (CVD), little is known of very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) relationship with atherosclerosis and CVD. We examined, in a high-risk type-2 diabetic population, the association of plasma VLDL-C with coronary artery calcification (CAC). MethodsThe Penn Diabetes Heart Study (PDHS) is a cross-sectional study of CVD risk factors in type-2 diabetics (n = 2118, mean age 59.1 years, 36.5% female, 34.1% Black). Plasma lipids including VLDL-C were calculated (n = 1879) after ultracentrifugation. ResultsIn Tobit regression, VLDL-C levels were positively associated with increasing CAC after adjusting for age, race, gender, Framingham risk score, body mass index, C-reactive protein, exercise, medication and alcohol use, hemoglobin A1c, and diabetes duration [Tobit ratio (TR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38 (0.12–0.65), P = 0.005] and even after inclusion of apolipoprotein B data [TR 0.31 (0.03–0.58), P = 0.030]. Approximately 3-fold stronger effect was observed in women [TR 0.75 (0.16–1.34), P = 0.013] than men [TR 0.20 (−0.10–0.50), P = 0.189; gender interaction P = 0.034]. Plasma VLDL-C was related more strongly to CAC scores than TG levels (e.g., Akaike information criteria of 7263.65 vs. 7263.94) and had stronger CAC association in individuals with TGs >150 mg/dl (TR 0.80, P = 0.010) vs. those with TGs <150 mg/dl (TR 0.27, P = 0.185). ConclusionsIn PDHS, VLDL-C is associated with CAC independent of established CVD risk factors, particularly in women, and may have value even beyond apolipoprotein B levels and in patients with elevated TGs.

Cardiovascular risk markers and thyroid status in young Indian women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a case-control study.

To study thyroid function profile, atherogenic markers and their association in young women with PCOS. Thirty women aged 15-30 years with PCOS (married and unmarried) and an equal number of age-matched controls were included in this study. The following parameters were assessed: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), tetraiodothyronine (FT4), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) homocysteine (HCY), lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) levels. Thyroid function tests were within normal ranges in all the cases and controls. The following parameters were significantly elevated in women with PCOS compared to controls: serum TC, TG, LDL,VLDL, HCY and Lp(a). Married women with PCOS had significantly higher levels of TC, TG, VLDL-C, LDL-C, HCY and Lp(a). Among unmarried PCOS cases, HCY levels were found to be significantly higher compared to unmarried controls. In group 1, Lp(a) levels were found to be high. In group 2, TC, TG, LDL-C, VLDL-C, Lp(a) and HCY levels were found to be high. In group 3, TC, VLDL-C and Lp(a) were found to be high. Alteration in lipid metabolism and elevated HCY and Lp(a) levels were present in women with PCOS, which were independent of their thyroid status. Unmarried PCOS women are predisposed to develop cardiovascular diseases rather than married PCOS women. Group 2 PCOS women are predisposed to get cardiovascular diseases rather than group 1 and group 3. PCOS women need not have hypothyroidism.

Cardiovascular protective effects of Casearia sylvestris Swartz in Swiss and C57BL/6 LDLr-null mice undergoing high fat diet

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAlthough Casearia sylvestris Swartz is used in Brazilian folk medicine to treat obesity, no study has been conducted to evaluate the effects of this species in an experimental model of dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate possible hypolipemiant and antiatherogenic activity of the methanolic extract obtained from Casearia sylvestris (MECS) using Swiss and C57BL/6 LDLr-null mice undergoing high fat diet (HFD). Material and methodsDyslipidemia and atherogenesis were induced by the administration of commercial HFD for 4 weeks. The MECS was administered orally at doses of 250 and 500mg/kg, once a day, for two weeks, starting from the 2nd week of HFD. The gain in body weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured weekly over the four week study. At the end of the experiments the levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) were measured by colorimetric method. Aldosterone, vasopressin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity were also evaluated in collected serum. The renal function, atherogenic index serum (AIS) and in vitro antiplatelet activity were investigated. Additionally, histopathological analyzes were performed to determine the intima-media thickness (IMT) and intima media ratio (IMR) in aorta samples. ResultsThe HFD induced dyslipidemia and major structural changes in the aortic wall, including raising of the systolic blood pressure in LDLr-null mice. In addition, we observed an increase in lipid peroxidation accompanied by a reduction of serum nitrite. The treatment with MECS was able to prevent the increase of SBP, TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C and triglycerides levels and increase HDL-C in Swiss and LDLr-null mice. These effects were accompanied by a significant reduction in oxidative stress. Moreover, AIS, IMT and IMR were significantly reduced in MECS-treated mice, and the extract was able to reduce platelet aggregation in vitro. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that MECS reduces the serum lipids and oxidative stress when orally administered to Swiss and LDLr-null mice. In addition, it was able to prevent arterial thickening induced by HFD and to inhibit platelet aggregation in vitro.

Effects of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition on adiponectin levels and lipid profile in the ovariectomized-aged rats

Objective:To investigate the relationship between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and adiponectin and lipid profile in the ovariectomized-aged rats.Materials and Methods:Wistar albino rats were first divided into two groups; control (C) and ovariectomized (OVX). Bilateral ovariectomy were carried out on rats (n = 30) except control group (n = 10). After 6 weeks from ovariectomy, ovariectomized rats were subdivided into three groups; one group received no treatment (OVX), two groups received low dose (OVX + Cap5; 5 mg/kg/day) and high dose (OVX + Cap20; 20 mg/kg/day) captopril (Cap). Body weights were monitored weekly. Adiponectin, triglyceride, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels were measured at the end of the 6 weeks.Results:In the OVX group, body weights increased (P < 0.001). In the OVX + Cap20 group, body weights significantly decreased compared with the OVX group during weeks 5 and 6 (P < 0.05). While adiponectin levels increased in the OVX + Cap5 group (P = 0.014), triglyceride and cholesterol levels decreased in the OVX + Cap20 group (P = 0.016 and P < 0.001, respectively) compared to the OVX group. HDL-C and VLDL-C levels decreased only in OVX + Cap20 group (P < 0.005).Conclusions:ACE inhibitors may be decreasing the ovariectomy-induced weight gain by increasing adiponectin levels, and by affecting lipid profiles. The adipose tissue renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may be playing an important role in the development of adiposity.

Lipoprotein Lipase and PPAR Alpha Gene Polymorphisms, Increased Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels, and Decreased High-Density Lipoprotein Levels as Risk Markers for the Development of Visceral Leishmaniasis byLeishmania infantum

In visceral leishmaniasis (VL) endemic areas, a minority of infected individuals progress to disease since most of them develop protective immunity. Therefore, we investigated the risk markers of VL within nonimmune sector. Analyzing infected symptomatic and, asymptomatic, and noninfected individuals, VL patients presented with reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), elevated triacylglycerol (TAG), and elevated very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels. A polymorphism analysis of the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene using HindIII restriction digestion (N = 156 samples) (H+ = the presence and H− = the absence of mutation) revealed an increased adjusted odds ratio (OR) of VL versus noninfected individuals when the H+/H+ was compared with the H−/H− genotype (OR = 21.3; 95% CI = 2.32–3335.3; P = 0.003). The H+/H+ genotype and the H+ allele were associated with elevated VLDL-C and TAG levels (P < 0.05) and reduced HDL-C levels (P < 0.05). An analysis of the L162V polymorphism in the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) gene (n = 248) revealed an increased adjusted OR when the Leu/Val was compared with the Leu/Leu genotype (OR = 8.77; 95% CI = 1.41–78.70; P = 0.014). High TAG (P = 0.021) and VLDL-C (P = 0.023) levels were associated with susceptibility to VL, whereas low HDL (P = 0.006) levels with resistance to infection. The mutated LPL and the PPARα Leu/Val genotypes may be considered risk markers for the development of VL.