Lipid Levels Research Articles

The synergism of Lactobacillaceae, inulin, polyglucose, and aerobic exercise ameliorates hyperglycemia by modulating the gut microbiota community and the metabolic profiles in db/db mice.

This study aimed to assess the impact of Lactobacillaceae (L or H represents a low or high dose), inulin (I), and polydextrose (P) combined with aerobic exercise (A) on the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles in db/db mice. After a 12-week intervention, LIP, LIPA, and HIPA groups exhibited significant improvements in hyperglycemia, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, inflammatory response, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) and blood lipid levels compared to type 2 diabetes mice (MC). After treatment, the gut microbiota composition shifted favorably in the treatment groups which significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Bacteroides, Blautia, Akkermansia, and Faecalibaculum, and significantly decreased the abundance of Proteus. Metabolomics analysis showed that compared to the MC group, the contents of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, 3-hydroxysebacic acid, adenosine monophosphate (AMP), xanthine and hypoxanthine were significantly decreased, while 3-ketosphinganine, sphinganine, and sphingosine were significantly increased in the LIP and LIPA groups, respectively. Additionally, LIP and LIPA not only improved sphingolipid metabolism and purine metabolism pathways but also activated AMP-activated protein kinase to promote β-oxidation by increasing the levels of SCFAs. Faecalibaculum, Blautia, Bacteroides, and Akkermansia exhibited positive correlations with sphingosine, 3-ketosphinganine, and sphinganine, and exhibited negative correlations with hypoxanthine, xanthine and AMP. Faecalibaculum, Blautia, Bacteroides, and Akkermansia may have the potential to improve sphingolipid metabolism and purine metabolism pathways. These findings suggest that the synergism of Lactobacillaceae, inulin, polydextrose, and aerobic exercise provides a promising strategy for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.

Study of the initial vasculotoxic risk in patients with lymphoproliferative diseases before the start of polychemotherapy

Research objective. To evaluate the levels of CRP, cardio-specific markers, lipids, structural-functional (SF) state of vessels, and their interrelations in patients with lymphoproliterative diseases (LPD) before polychemotherapy (PCT).Materials and methods. The study included patients with newly diagnosed LPD (n = 30), including 16 men (53.3%) and 14 women (46.7%). All patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 15) — patients with low/intermediate cardiovascular toxicity (CVT) risk; group 2 (n = 15) — patients with high/very high CVT risk. CVT risk stratification was performed with the use of specialized scales according to the current European clinical guidelines for cardio-oncology 2022. All patients included in the study underwent standard laboratory and instrumental examinations. Specific laboratory research involved assessing the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), troponin I (TnI), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and lipid profile. The SF state of vessels was evaluated non-invasively using photoplethysmography (PPG) (Angioscan-01 device, Russia) and computerized videocapillaroscopy (CVC) of the periungual area (Capillaroscan-01 device, Russia).Results. According to the results of PPG and CVC, the occlusion index (OI) in group 2 was significantly lower and amounted to 1.2 [1; 1.3] compared to 1.7 [1.45; 2.1] in group 1 (p < 0.001); capillary density after reactive hyperemia (CDRH) was also significantly lower in group 2 compared to group 1 — 43 [35.5; 45] and 54 [43; 58] cap/mm², respectively (p = 0.033). According to the obtained results, there were no statistically significant diff erences in the levels of CRP, TnI, and NT-proBNP between patients in both groups; the indicators were within the reference values. A moderate inverse statistically signifi cant correlation was found between the level of CRP and the percentage of perfused capillaries (PPC) (rs = –0.545; p =  0.02) and the percentage of capillary recovery (PCR) (r = –0.446; p = 0.013).Conclusion. Patients with LPD have endothelial dysfunction before PCT, primarily due to the presence of cardiovascular risk factors (age, body mass index), and concomitant cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, the SF state of vessels initially does not depend on the stage and course of LPD, lipid levels, and TnI.

Advancements In Pharmacotherapy for Hyperlipidemia: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Drug Innovations and Clinical Outcomes

Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated blood lipid levels, significantly contributes to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of global mortality per the World Health Organization (WHO). Studies reveal a 20-30% increase in coronary heart disease risk for every 1 mmol/L rise in LDL-C levels. While statins are widely used, novel pharmacotherapeutic approaches are necessary for effective hyperlipidemia management and CVD risk reduction. Recent clinical trials demonstrate the efficacy of innovative drugs like proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors in lowering LDL-C levels and reducing adverse cardiovascular events. These findings highlight the potential of new therapies to enhance existing treatments for hyperlipidemia. Additionally, safety evaluations of emerging lipid-lowering agents address concerns about adverse effects and long-term risks. Despite progress, challenges persist in refining treatment strategies and ensuring equitable access to advanced therapies, especially for marginalized populations. Incorporating innovative pharmacotherapies into current approaches offers personalized and efficient hyperlipidemia management. Continued research and interdisciplinary collaborations are vital for advancing our understanding of lipid metabolism and translating scientific discoveries into improved patient outcomes and cardiovascular health. Ongoing innovation and investment in tailored hyperlipidemia therapies are crucial for better outcomes in individuals at risk of CVDs.
 Keywords: hyperlipidemia, pcsk9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid, evinacumab, inclisiran mipomersen, volanesorsen

Impact of LDLR polymorphisms on lipid levels and atorvastatin’s efficacy in a northern Chinese adult Han cohort with dyslipidemia

BackgroundDyslipidemia, a significant risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), is influenced by genetic variations, particularly those in the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of LDLR polymorphisms on baseline serum lipid levels and the therapeutic efficacy of atorvastatin in an adult Han population in northern China with dyslipidemia.MethodsIn this study, 255 Han Chinese adults receiving atorvastatin therapy were examined and followed up. The 3’ untranslated region (UTR) of the LDLR gene was sequenced to identify polymorphisms. The associations between gene polymorphisms and serum lipid levels, as well as changes in lipid levels after intervention, were evaluated using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, with a P < 0.05 indicating statistical significance. Assessment of linkage disequilibrium patterns and haplotype structures was conducted utilizing Haploview.ResultsEleven distinct polymorphisms at LDLR 3’ UTR were identified. Seven polymorphisms (rs1433099, rs14158, rs2738466, rs5742911, rs17249057, rs55971831, and rs568219285) were correlated with the baseline serum lipid levels (P < 0.05). In particular, four polymorphisms (rs14158, rs2738466, rs5742911, and rs17249057) were in strong linkage disequilibrium (r2 = 1), and patients with the AGGC haplotype had higher TC and LDL-C levels at baseline. Three polymorphisms (rs1433099, rs2738467, and rs7254521) were correlated with the therapeutic efficacy of atorvastatin (P < 0.05). Furthermore, carriers of the rs2738467 T allele demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels post-atorvastatin treatment (P = 0.03), indicating a potentially crucial genetic influence on therapeutic outcomes. Two polymorphisms (rs751672818 and rs566918949) were neither correlated with the baseline serum lipid levels nor atorvastatin’s efficacy.ConclusionsThis research outlined the complex genetic architecture surrounding LDLR 3’ UTR polymorphisms and their role in lipid metabolism and the response to atorvastatin treatment in adult Han Chinese patients with dyslipidemia, highlighting the importance of genetic profiling in enhancing tailored therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, this investigation advocates for the integration of genetic testing into the management of dyslipidemia, paving the way for customized therapeutic approaches that could significantly improve patient care.Trial registrationThis multicenter study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Xiangya Hospital Central South University (ethics number K22144). It was a general ethic. In addition, this study was approved by The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University (ethics number 20220418).

Weight, anthropometric and metabolic changes after discontinuing antiretroviral therapy containing tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) in people with HIV.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART)-related weight gain is of particular concern in people with HIV (PWH). While weight gain was observed among PWH receiving tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), little is known about the potential reversibility after TAF discontinuation. We evaluated weight and metabolic changes 12 months after TAF discontinuation in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study. We included participants who received at least six months of TAF-containing ART between January 2016 and March 2023. Using multivariable mixed-effect models, changes in weight and lipid levels were compared between individuals who continued TAF and those who switched to one of the following TAF-free regimens: TDF-based ART, dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC), or long-acting cabotegravir/rilpivirine (CAB/RPV). Of 6555 participants (median age 54 years, 24.3% female, 13% Black), 5485 (83.7%) continued and 1070 (16.3%) stopped TAF. Overall, discontinuing TAF was associated with an adjusted mean weight change of -0.54 kg (95% CI -0.98 to -0.11) after 12 months. In stratified analyses, switching from TAF to TDF led to an adjusted mean weight decrease of -1.84 kg (CI -2.72 to -0.97), and to a decrease in mean total cholesterol (-0.44 mmol/L) and triglycerides (-0.38 mmol/L) after 12 months. Switching from TAF-based ART to DTG/3TC (-0.17 kg, CI -0.82 to 0.48) or long-acting CAB/RPV (-0.64 kg, CI -2.16 to 0.89) did not lead to reductions in weight. Replacing TAF with TDF in PWH led to a decrease in body weight and an improved lipid profile within one year. Weight changes were not observed among individuals who switched to DTG/3TC or long-acting CAB/RPV.

Investigating the Potential Mechanism of Huazhi Rougan Granules against Alcoholic Liver Disease by Network Pharmacology and Experiment

Abstract Objective: Huazhi Rougan granules (HRGs) are a promising drug to improve alcoholic liver disease (ALD), but its mechanism remains unclear. Materials and Methods: Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments were used to reveal the potential mechanism of HRG against ALD. Results: A total of 245 potential targets of HRG against ALD were obtained. Functional enrichment analysis suggests that HRG could synergistically regulate various biological pathways to exert therapeutic effects on ALD. Molecular docking showed that the key targets exhibited the good binding ability with the key compounds. The in vivo experiments showed that HRG can effectively alleviate pathological changes in liver tissue, improve blood lipid levels, antioxidant stress ability, and liver function, and reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines in the liver. Conclusions: This study reflects that HRG is an effective strategy for treating ALD, providing a basis for revealing the prevention and treatment mechanisms of ALD.

Cellular senescence and metabolic reprogramming model based on bulk/single-cell RNA sequencing reveals PTGER4 as a therapeutic target for ccRCC

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the prevailing histological subtype of renal cell carcinoma and has unique metabolic reprogramming during its occurrence and development. Cell senescence is one of the newly identified tumor characteristics. However, there is a dearth of methodical and all-encompassing investigations regarding the correlation between the broad-ranging alterations in metabolic processes associated with aging and ccRCC. We utilized a range of analytical methodologies, such as protein‒protein interaction network analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis, to form and validate a risk score model known as the senescence-metabolism-related risk model (SeMRM). Our study demonstrated that SeMRM could more precisely predict the OS of ccRCC patients than the clinical prognostic markers in use. By utilizing two distinct datasets of ccRCC, ICGC-KIRC (the International Cancer Genome Consortium) and GSE29609, as well as a single-cell dataset (GSE156632) and real patient clinical information, and further confirmed the relationship between the senescence-metabolism-related risk score (SeMRS) and ccRCC patient progression. It is worth noting that patients who were classified into different subgroups based on the SeMRS exhibited notable variations in metabolic activity, immune microenvironment, immune cell type transformation, mutant landscape, and drug responsiveness. We also demonstrated that PTGER4, a key gene in SeMRM, regulated ccRCC cell proliferation, lipid levels and the cell cycle in vivo and in vitro. Together, the utilization of SeMRM has the potential to function as a dependable clinical characteristic to increase the accuracy of prognostic assessment for patients diagnosed with ccRCC, thereby facilitating the selection of suitable treatment strategies.

Integrated transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis provides key insights into lipid content changes during pecan (Carya illinoensis) fruit development.

Pecans [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] are highly valued for their abundance of quality healthy lipids, positively impacting human health and making themselves a preferred choice for nutritionally rich foods. However, a comprehensive understanding of the high-resolution characteristics of pecan fruit lipid composition and its dynamic changes, as well as the transfer between embryo and pericarp during development, remains incomplete. In this study, through integrated multi-omics analysis, we observed significant spatiotemporal heterogeneity in lipid changes between the pericarp and embryo. It showed smaller fluctuations and more stable lipid levels in the pericarp while exhibiting a dynamic pattern of initially increasing and then decreasing lipid content in the embryo. In this study, a total of 52 differentially expressed genes were identified, related to fatty acid synthesis and metabolism pathways in the two tissues, with changes in oleic acid and linoleic acid composition being the primary features of the embryo. This research lays the foundation for further understanding the differential regulation mechanisms of lipid metabolism between embryo and pericarp. Overall, this study filled the knowledge gap regarding dynamic changes in pericarp lipid metabolites, provided crucial insights into the lipid metabolism network during pecan fruit development, and established a scientific basis for the genetic improvement of pecan crops.

Biomarkers of lipid metabolism in gastric cancer: a case control study

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to explore the correlation between biomarkers of lipid metabolism and gastric cancer.Methods1120 gastric cancer patients and 1134 health examiners enrolled in this study. The clinic data and serum lipid level, including Total cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), were collected.ResultsSerum TG and LDL-C levels in patients with gastric cancer were higher than those in the control group. HDL-C levels were lower than the control group (P < 0.05). HDL-C and LDL-C were significantly correlated with the risk of gastric cancer. Concentrating on clinicopathological features, increased TG was more frequently in male patients with distal gastric cancer, N0 stage and early TNM stage. Increased TC was more frequently in early T, N and TNM stage. Decreased HDL-C was more common in distal location and low-undifferentiated gastric cancer. LDL-C elevation was more common in distal gastric cancer and early T stage.ConclusionsThe serum lipid level of gastric cancer patients was higher than healthy controls. HDL-C and LDL-C abnormal correlated with gastric cancer risk. However, as the progresses of gastric cancer, poor patient intake, increased tumor consumption, and continuous declining in nutritional status, the levels of TC and TG gradually decreased in advanced gastric cancer.

Age-Dependent Differences in Postprandial Bile-Acid Metabolism and the Role of the Gut Microbiome

Ageing changes the impact of nutrition, whereby inflammation has been suggested to play a role in age-related disabilities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in postprandial bile-acid response and its effect on energy metabolism between young and elderly people. Nine young, healthy men and nine elderly, healthy men underwent a liquid mixed-meal test. Postprandial bile-acid levels, insulin, glucose, GLP-1, C4, FGF19 and lipids were measured. Appetite, body composition, energy expenditure and gut microbiome were also measured. The elderly population showed lower glycine conjugated CDCA and UDCA levels and higher abundances of Ruminiclostridium, Marvinbryantia and Catenibacterium, but lower food intake, decreased fat free mass and increased cholesterol levels. Aging is associated with changes in postprandial bile-acid composition and microbiome, diminished hunger and changes in body composition and lipid levels. Further studies are needed to determine if these changes may contribute to malnutrition and sarcopenia in elderly.

Factors influencing hospitalization or emergency department visits and mortality in type 2 diabetes following the onset of new cardiovascular diagnoses in a population-based study.

Individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) which necessitates monitoring of risk factors and appropriate pharmacotherapy. This study aimed to identify factors predicting emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and mortality among T2D patients after being newly diagnosed with CVD. In a retrospective observational study conducted in Region Halland, individuals aged > 40 years with T2D diagnosed between 2011 and 2019, and a new diagnosis of CVD between 2016 and 2019, were followed for one year from the date of CVD diagnosis. The first encounter for CVD diagnosis was categorized as inpatient-, outpatient-, primary-, or emergency department care. Follow-up included laboratory tests, blood pressure, pharmacotherapies, and healthcare utilization. Hazard ratios (HR) in two Cox regression analyses determined relative risks for emergency visits/hospitalization and mortality, adjusting for age, sex, glucose regulation, lipid levels, kidney function, blood pressure, pharmacotherapy, and healthcare utilization. The study included a total of 1759 T2D individuals who received a new CVD diagnosis, with 67% diagnosed during inpatient care. The average hospitalization stay was 6.5 days, and primary care follow-up averaged 10.1 visits. Patients with CVD diagnosed in primary care had a HR 0.52 (confidence interval [CI] 0.35-0.77) for emergency department visits/hospitalization, but age had a HR 1.02 (CI 1.00-1.03). Pharmacotherapy with insulin, DPP4-inhibitors, aldosterone antagonists, and beta-blockers had a raised HR. Highest mortality risk was observed when CVD was diagnosed inpatient care, systolic blood pressure < 100mm Hg and elevated HbA1c. Age had a HR 1.05 (CI 1.03-1.08), eGFR < 30ml/min HR 1.46 (CI 1.01-2.11), and LDL-Cholesterol > 2,5h 1.46 (CI 1.01-2.11) and associated with increased mortality risk. Pharmacotherapy with metformin had a HR 0.41 (CI 0.28-0.62), statins a HR 0.39 (CI 0.27-0.57), and a primary care follow-up < 30 days a HR 0.53 (CI 0.37-0.77) and associated with lower mortality risk. T2D individuals who had a new diagnosis of CVD were predominantly diagnosed when hospitalized, while follow-up typically occurred in primary care. Identifying factors that predict risks of mortality and hospitalization should be a focus of follow-up care, underscoring the critical role of primary care in the effective management of T2D and CVD.

Cardiometabolic Differences in People Living with HIV Receiving Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors Compared to Non-nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors: Implications for Current ART Strategies

In people living with HIV (PLHIV), integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are part of the first-line combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), while non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based regimens are alternatives. Distinct cART regimens may variably influence the risk for non-AIDS comorbidities. We aimed to compare the metabolome and lipidome of INSTI and NNRTI-based regimens. The 2000HIV study includes asymptomatic PLHIV (n = 1646) on long-term cART, separated into a discovery cohort with 730 INSTI and 617 NNRTI users, and a validation cohort encompassing 209 INSTI and 90 NNRTI users. Baseline plasma samples from INSTI and NNRTI users were compared using mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomic (n = 500) analysis. Perturbed metabolic pathways were identified using MetaboAnalyst software. Subsequently, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used for targeted lipoprotein and lipid (n = 141) analysis. Metabolome homogeneity was observed between the different types of INSTI and NNRTI. In contrast, higher and lower levels of 59 and 45 metabolites, respectively, were found in the INSTI group compared to NNRTI users, of which 77.9% (81/104) had consistent directionality in the validation cohort. Annotated metabolites belonged mainly to ‘lipid and lipid-like molecules’, ‘organic acids and derivatives’ and ‘organoheterocyclic compounds’. In pathway analysis, perturbed ‘vitamin B1 (thiamin) metabolism’, ‘de novo fatty acid biosynthesis’, ‘bile acid biosynthesis’ and ‘pentose phosphate pathway’ were detected, among others. Lipoprotein and lipid levels in NNRTIs were heterogeneous and could not be compared as a group. INSTIs compared to individual NNRTI types showed that HDL cholesterol was lower in INSTIs compared to nevirapine but higher in INSTIs compared to doravirine. In addition, LDL size was lower in INSTIs and nevirapine compared to doravirine. NNRTIs show more heterogeneous cardiometabolic effects than INSTIs, which hampers the comparison between these two classes of drugs. Targeted lipoproteomic and lipid NMR spectroscopy showed that INSTI use was associated with a more unfavorable lipid profile compared to nevirapine, which was shifted to a more favorable profile for INSTI when substituting nevirapine for doravirine, with evidently higher fold changes. The cardiovascular disease risk profile seems more favorable in INSTIs compared to NNRTIs in untargeted metabolomic analysis using mass-spectrometry.

Exploring the phytochemical and biological properties of Salsola foetida: a promising wild plant from Southeastern Algeria

ABSTRACT This study presents an initial exploration of the phytochemical composition and biological properties of Salsola foetida, a wild plant native to southeastern Algeria. The investigation encompassed an analysis of the biochemical content, phytochemical profile, and bioactivity of the plant’s aerial parts. The biomass of S. foetida was found to comprise 51.2 ± 0.4% ash, with elemental analysis revealing the presence of carbon, oxygen, calcium, sodium, chlorine, magnesium, potassium, and sulfur. Carbohydrates were identified as the predominant constituents, surpassing the levels of proteins and lipids. Phytochemical screening, coupled with Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) analysis, confirmed the presence of various secondary metabolites, including alkaloids and phenols. Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis further delineated a spectrum of phenolic compounds, with rutin emerging as the predominant compound at 1.59 µg/ml. Quantification revealed a noteworthy phenolic content of 67.1 ± 0.2 µg GE/mg ED. The extract exhibited robust radical scavenging effects, with the radical 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) being 61.8 ± 0.2 μg/ml, along with protective effects against H2O2-induced hemolysis and the ability to reduce ferric ions. Additionally, the extract demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Notably, it exhibited considerable sunscreen properties, boasting a sun protected factor (SPF) value of 21 ± 1. Overall, S. foetida presents promising antioxidant activity and a spectrum of potential biological activities, underscoring its significance as a novel antioxidant candidate for applications in animal nutrition, medicine, and natural product research.

Assessing the clinical diagnostic value of anti-Müllerian hormone in polycystic ovarian syndrome and its correlation with clinical and metabolism indicators

BackgroundThis study investigated the association between Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and relevant metabolic parameters and assessed its predictive value in the clinical diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).MethodsA total of 421 women aged 20–37 years were allocated to the PCOS (n = 168) and control (n = 253) groups, and their metabolic and hormonal parameters were compared. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to investigate associations, binary logistic regression was used to determine PCOS risk factors, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the predictive value of AMH in diagnosing PCOS.ResultsThe PCOS group demonstrated significantly higher blood lipid, luteinizing hormone (LH), and AMH levels than the control group. Glucose and lipid metabolism and hormonal disorders in the PCOS group were more significant than in the control group among individuals with and without obesity. LH, TSTO, and AMH were identified as independent risk factors for PCOS. AMH along with LH, and antral follicle count demonstrated a high predictive value for diagnosing PCOS.ConclusionAMH exhibited robust diagnostic use for identifying PCOS and could be considered a marker for screening PCOS to improve PCOS diagnostic accuracy. Attention should be paid to the effect of glucose and lipid metabolism on the hormonal and related parameters of PCOS populations.

Evidence That Skeletal Muscles Modulate HDL-Cholesterol in Metabolic Healthy Young Adults

The aim of this study was to investigate whether skeletal muscle (SM) mass correlates with plasma lipids in metabolic healthy young adults. The study was designed as a retrospective observational monocentric study. Data on plasma lipids and SM mass of subjects attending our institution from 1999 to 2014 were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were being 18–45 years old and in apparently good health. SM mass was evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) using the equation proposed by Janssen and normalized to height as skeletal muscle index (SMI: SM mass/height2). The association between SMI and plasma lipids levels was examined using a crude and adjusted linear regression model including age, sex, BMI and waist circumference as additional covariates. The study population consisted of 450 subjects (273 females) without metabolic syndrome (12.2% with normal body weight, 33.1% overweight, and 54.7% with obesity). SMI, total-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and Triglycerides were higher, whereas HDL-cholesterol was lower in overweight and obese patients as compared with normal weight subjects. SMI was inversely associated with HDL-cholesterol in female patients with obesity but not in male patients with obesity, in normal- or over-weight subjects (p &lt; 0.05). These results suggest that changes in SM mass occurring in obesity could have a role in worsening lipid profile with special reference to HDL-cholesterol.

A Study on the Modifying Effect of Raspberry Seed Oil on Rabbit Meat Quality and Chemical Composition

The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of raspberry seed oil on the slaughter performance traits, plasma lipid concentration and meat quality of purebred Termond White rabbits (n = 42; 18♂, 24♀). In each group (3 × n = 14; 6♂, 8♀), the experimental animals were fed a complete pelleted feed with constant access to drinking water. Rabbits in the first experimental group received a feed ration enriched with a 1% addition of raspberry seed oil, while rabbits in the second experimental group were given a 2% addition of the same oil. These animals were slaughtered on day 84. The addition of raspberry seed oil did not significantly affect the slaughter performance traits of the rabbits (p &gt; 0.05). It also did not significantly affect the fat content, shear force, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness or chewiness of the meat obtained from the rabbits’ longissimus lumborum muscle. However, the experiment showed that the addition of raspberry seed oil had a significant effect on the fatty acid profile of rabbit meat (p ≤ 0.05). Even a small share of this oil in the feed ration significantly increased the level of linoleic acid (p ≤ 0.05). This study showed that feeding pellets containing an oil supplement with a high content of unsaturated fatty acids had a positive effect on rabbits’ plasma lipid levels.

Influence of salinity, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations on the physiological and biochemical characteristics of two Chlorophyceae isolated from Fez freshwater, Morocco

Microalgae are widely exploited for numerous biotechnology applications, including biofuels. In this context, Chlamydomonas debaryana and Chlorococcum sp. were isolated from Fez freshwater (Morocco), and their growth and lipid and carbohydrate production were assessed at different concentrations of NaCl, NaNO3, and K2HPO4. The results indicate a small positive variation in growth parameters linked to nutrient enrichment, with no considerable variation in carbohydrate and lipid levels in both algae. Moreover, a negative variation was recorded at increased salinity and nutrient limitation, accompanied by lipid and carbohydrate accumulation. Chlorococcum sp. showed better adaptation to salt stress below 200 mM NaCl. Furthermore, its growth and biomass productivity were strongly reduced by nitrogen depletion, and its lipid production reached 47.64% DW at 3.52 mM NaNO3. As for Chlamydomonas debaryana, a substantial reduction in growth was induced by nutrient depletion, a maximal carbohydrate level was produced at less than 8.82 mM NaNO3 (40.59% DW). The effect of phosphorus was less significant. However, a concentration of 0.115 mM K2HPO4 increased lipid and carbohydrate content without compromising biomass productivity. The results suggest that growing the two Chlorophyceae under these conditions seems interesting for biofuel production, but the loss of biomass requires a more efficient strategy to maximize lipid and carbohydrate accumulation without loss of productivity.

Inhibitory activity and molecular mechanism of the total alkaloids of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo against cholesterol esterase

AbstractThis study aimed to explore the inhibitory effect and mechanism of the total alkaloids of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo (DENA) against cholesterol esterase (CE). DENA was characterised by SEM, 1H NMR, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The inhibitory effect and mechanism of DENA against CE were investigated through fluorescence chromatography, circular dichroism, and molecular docking. DENA inhibited CE activity (IC50 = 1.08 ± 0.09 mg mL−1), characterised by a non-competitive inhibition mechanism. Furthermore, DENA induced a fluorescence quenching in CE, causing a blue shift in the λmax. This coincided with a transition in the secondary structure of CE from a layered to a helical structure by circular dichroism, indicating a significant reduction in its stability. Moreover, molecular docking confirmed that DENA binds to amino acid residues in the enzyme through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, leading to structural changes and reduced enzyme activity. These results suggest DENA has the potential to lower blood lipid levels by inhibiting CE activity.

Impacts of ABCG2 loss of function variant (p. Gln141Lys, c.421 C > A, rs2231142) on lipid levels and statin efficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe latest evidence indicates that ATP-binding cassette superfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) is critical in regulating lipid metabolism and mediating statin or cholesterol efflux. This study investigates whether the function variant loss within ABCG2 (rs2231142) impacts lipid levels and statin efficiency.MethodsPubMed, Cochrane Library, Central, CINAHL, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched until November 18, 2023.ResultsFifteen studies (34,150 individuals) were included in the analysis. The A allele [Glu141Lys amino acid substitution was formed by a transversion from cytosine (C) to adenine (A)] of rs2231142 was linked to lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and higher levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC). In addition, the A allele of rs2231142 substantially increased the lipid-lowering efficiency of rosuvastatin in Asian individuals with dyslipidemia. Subgroup analysis indicated that the impacts of rs2231142 on lipid levels and statin response were primarily in Asian individuals.ConclusionsThe ABCG2 rs2231142 loss of function variant significantly impacts lipid levels and statin efficiency. Preventive use of rosuvastatin may prevent the onset of coronary artery disease (CAD) in Asian individuals with dyslipidemia.

An Appraisal of the Preventive Effect of Statins on the Development of Graves' Ophthalmopathy: A Hospital-Based Cohort Study.

Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder observed in a substantial proportion of patients with Graves' disease (GD), with debilitating symptoms of disfiguring, periorbital pain, dry eyes, diplopia, and even visual disturbances. Previous studies involving Western populations have noted discrepancies in risk factors for GO. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the risk factors for GO development and the protective effect of statins in newly diagnosed patients with GD in Taiwan. This retrospective case-control study was based on a tertiary center cohort involving patients with GD diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 atthe National Taiwan University Hospital (n = 11,035). Patients who were diagnosed or treated elsewhere, had been followed up for less than 6months or were with a diagnosis of orbital tumor were excluded. Overall, 3578 patients with GD met the inclusion criteria. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to ascertain the odds ratio (OR) of developing GO, with adjustment for sociodemographic factors, interventions for managing GD and thyroid hormone levels, to determine protective and risk factors for GO. In our multivariate model, the use of statins reduced the risk of GO development (OR 0.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08-0.50; p < 0.001). Thyroid dysfunction including hyperthyroidism (OR 4.2; 95%CI 2.97-5.88; p < 0.001) and hypothyroidism (OR 4.7; 95%CI 3.02-7.19; p < 0.001) was associated with an increased risk of developing GO. Smoking status and lipid profile were not risk factors in our cohort. In newly diagnosed patients with GD, the use of statins decreased the risk of developing GO by 80%, whereas serum lipid levels were not considered risk factors. Further nationwide population-based studies may help clarify the differences in risk factors between various ethnic groups. This trial was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of National Taiwan University Hospital (202202066RINC), retrospectively registered from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2019.