Lipid Metabolism In Women Research Articles

Comparative analysis of the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, glycated hemoglobin and indicators of lipid metabolism in women of Lviv and Kyiv regions

Background. The prevalence of thyroid diseases, including endemic goiter and autoimmune disorders, has been consi­dered by scientists for more than a century as a cause for reducing the working capacity of the population and also affects the cognitive ability of future generations. Geographically, Lviv region is in an endemic iodine deficiency zone, while Kyiv region suffered negative radiation exposure as a result of the accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Since both factors affect the state of the thyroid system, the study on the levels of thyroid hormones among women in the specified areas makes it possible to identify the risks of thyroid pathologies and to develop a strategy for their prevention. The purpose of the study: to find out and analyze the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), glycated hemoglobin and indicators of lipid metabolism in women of Lviv and Kyiv regions. Materials and methods. One hundred and fifty women were examined, their average age was 48 ± 7 years. The criterion for inclusion in the study were: absence of diabetes or treatment for thyroid pathologies, as well as other serious diseases. The survey was conducted once, in July-August 2022. The level of pituitary TSH, antibodies to thyroid peroxidase (TPO-Ab), glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein was evaluated. Results. In examined women of the Kyiv region, the average TSH was 2.21 ± 0.30 mIU/l, while in those from the Lviv region it was within 2.42 ± 0.17 mIU/l (p > 0.05). A significant difference was found between the average values of TPO-Ab, some women had high levels of antibodies without manifestations of hypothyroidism and clinical complaints. The average value of TPO-Ab in patients from the Kyiv region was 81.21 ± 19.41 IU/ml and in women from the Lviv region it was 38.41 ± 5.97 IU/ml (р < 0,05). When analyzing carbohydrate metabolism, no significant changes were found between the levels of glycated hemoglobin in the examined women of Kyiv and Lviv regions, 5.81 ± 0.09 % and 5.66 ± 0.04 %, respectively (р > 0.05). Some women showed a slight increase in glycated hemoglobin over 5.6 %, which did not reach the level of 6.5 %. This group of examinees were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and is characterized by the term “prediabetes”. Regarding lipid metabolism, we found no significant changes in the level of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Conclusions. The conducted observation revealed differences in TSH, TPO-Ab indicators in healthy women living in Lviv and Kyiv regions. We can assume that the obtained results of Lviv region reflect the problems of the endemic zone of the Western regions of Ukraine. In turn, significantly higher levels of TPO-Ab among residents of Kyiv region are most likely a consequence of the accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which can still affect the health of the population of this region.

Short-term effect of plant-based Nordic diet versus carbohydrate-restricted diet on glucose levels in gestational diabetes – the eMOM pilot study

BackgroundThe optimal nutritional treatment for gestational diabetes (GDM) is still a matter of debate. With increasing rates of GDM and potential negative consequences for the health of mother and child, the best treatment should be established. The Nordic diet with emphasis on plant-based protein show promising health outcomes in other populations but has yet to be investigated in GDM population. The aim of this study, which is part of the “Effect of plant-based Nordic diet versus carbohydrate-restricted diet on glucose levels in gestational diabetes” (eMOM) pilot study was to compare the short-term effects of healthy Nordic diet (HND) and the currently recommended moderate restriction of carbohydrates diet (MCRD) on glucose and lipid metabolism in women with GDM.MethodsThis was a randomized crossover where each of the diet interventions (HND and MCRD) were consumed for 3 days with a 3-day wash-out period in between. In total, 42 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM (< 29 + 0 gestational week) were randomized. Glucose data was collected by continuous glucose monitors (CGM, Freestyle Libre®, Abbott, USA) worn for 14 days, and participants gave blood samples before and after diet interventions. The primary outcome was time spent in glucose target range (TIR, < 7.8 mmol/L). TIR, 3-day mean tissue glucose as well as changes in fasting glucose, homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and blood lipids were analyzed with paired samples statistical analyses.ResultsThirty-six women with complete 14 days CGM data were analyzed. Both diet interventions produced a high degree of TIR (99% SD 1.8), without a difference between the diets (p = 0.727). The 3-day mean glucose was significantly lower in HND than in MCRD (p = 0,049). Fasting insulin (p = 0,034), insulin resistance (p = 0,030), total and LDL cholesterol (p = 0,023 and 0,008) reduced more in the MCRD diet than the HND. NS differences in any other measure of CGM or blood tests.ConclusionsHND and MCRD did not differ in terms of their short-term effect on TIR. A larger study with sufficient power is needed to confirm the differences in short-term mean glucose, insulin resistance and lipid metabolism.Trial registrationRegistered in clinicaltrials.gov (21/09/2018, NCT03681054).

The role of proprotein convertase subtillisin/kexin type 9 in placental salvage and lipid metabolism in women with preeclampsia

IntroductionPreeclampsia is associated with decreased maternal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), which is essential for fetal growth. The underlying mechanisms for decreased LDL-c in preeclampsia remain unknown. Proprotein convertase subtillisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) regulates serum LDL-c via LDL receptor (LDL-R) degradation. We describe the possible role of PCSK9 in lipid metabolism in all compartments of the parturient (maternal blood, placental tissue, and fetal blood) in pregnancies with and without preeclampsia. MethodsThis is an observational study examining PCSK9 levels in maternal sera, umbilical cord blood, and PCSK9 protein content in placental tissue in three different locations (maternal placental interface, fetal placental interface, and umbilical cord) in women with and without preeclampsia at >23 weeks gestation. Results68 parturients with preeclampsia and 55 without preeclampsia were enrolled. Maternal serum LDL-c (116.6 ± 48.9 mg/dL vs 146.1 ± 47.1 mg/dL, p = 0.0045) and PCSK9 (83 [61.8127.6] ng/mL vs 105.3 [83.5142.9] ng/mL, p = 0.011) were also reduced in the preeclamptics versus controls. There were no differences in PCSK9 protein content between preeclamptics and controls at comparative placental interfaces. However, PCSK9 protein content increased between the preeclampsia maternal placental interface (1.87 ± 0.62) and the preeclampsia umbilical cord (2.67 ± 1.08, p = 0.0243). DiscussionPCSK9 levels are lower in maternal sera in preeclampsia when compared to controls. Placental PCSK9 protein content in preeclampsia increases from the maternal interface to the umbilical cord; however, this is not seen in controls. This suggests a potential compensatory mechanism for PCSK9 which allows for higher circulating fetal LDL-c levels in preeclampsia.

Antioxidant supplements relieve insulin resistance but do not improve lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Objective: The effect of antioxidant supplements on glucose metabolism and lipid profiles in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remains controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether antioxidant supplements improve glucose metabolism and lipid profiles in women with PCOS to provide optimal nutritional supplement advice in clinical practice. Methods: The search was conducted across multiple medical databases from inception to January 1, 2022 and performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A random effects model was used to calculate the overall effects. Results: Eighteen trials (1113 participants) were included. Antioxidant supplements significantly improved insulin resistance (95% CI, −0.62, −0.30; p < 0.00001; I2 =48%), fasting insulin (95% CI, −0.80, −0.44; p < 0.00001; I2 = 48%), and fasting plasma glucose (95% CI, −0.54, −0.21; p < 0.00001; I2 = 38%) in patients with PCOS. However, antioxidant supplements were found to not improve most indices of lipid profiles in PCOS except triglyceride. Conclusions: Antioxidant supplements are an effective intervention for relieving insulin resistance but do not significantly improve lipid metabolism in women with PCOS.

Research of Lipid Metabolism Disorders in Female Combatants

The objective: to find out the peculiarities of stress-induced changes in lipid metabolism indicators in women who have experienced concussion during combat operations. Study the state and morphostructure of adipose tissue. To analyze the relationship between lipid metabolism disorders and changes in reproductive health of female combatants. Materials and methods. The research was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology of the Ukrainian State Institute of Reproductology of the Shupyk National Healthcare University. 118 women participated in the study. Group I consisted of examination data of women who suffered concussion during combat operations with PTSD, group II – control, it consisted of healthy women. Average age of women who participated in hostilities and suffered contusion 27.08±4.23 years. Results. The influence of stress factors associated with military service in women servicemen on the development of lipid metabolism disorders is obvious. In the main group (118 women), blood cholesterol levels were significantly higher than in the control group. In parallel, a very low level of anti-atherogenic lipoprotein fractions was detected. Lipid metabolism in women who experienced concussion during combat with PTS was characterized by a high frequency of hyperlipidemia of types IIa and IIb, higher serum concentrations of atherogenic lipids fractions (CL, CL-LDL) and low anti-atherogenic fractions (CL-HDL), which were observed in all age subgroups and progressed with age. Conclusions. As a result of lipid metabolic disorders, the prerequisites for the development of hyperproliferative diseases of the female reproductive system, early and severe atherosclerosis are created.

The Translational Role of miRNA in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: From Bench to Bedside-A Systematic Literature Review.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that are essential for the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression during tissue development and differentiation. They are involved in the regulation of manifold metabolic and hormonal processes and, within the female reproductive tract, in oocyte maturation and folliculogenesis. Altered miRNA levels have been observed in oncological and inflammatory diseases, diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Therefore, miRNAs are proving to be promising potential biomarkers. In women with PCOS, circulating miRNAs can be obtained from whole blood, serum, plasma, urine, and follicular fluid. Our systematic review summarizes data from 2010–2021 on miRNA expression in granulosa and theca cells; the relationship between miRNAs, hormonal changes, glucose and lipid metabolism in women with PCOS; and the potential role of altered miRNAs in fertility (oocyte quality) in PCOS. Furthermore, we discuss miRNAs as a potential therapeutic target in PCOS and as a diagnostic marker for PCOS.

Distinct pathophysiological pathways in women and men with heart failure.

Clinical differences between women and men have been described in heart failure (HF). However, less is known about the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. In this study, we compared multiple circulating biomarkers to gain better insights into differential HF pathophysiology between women and men. In 537 women and 1485 men with HF, we compared differential expression of a panel of 363 biomarkers. Then, we performed a pathway over-representation analysis to identify differential biological pathways in women and men. Findings were validated in an independent HF cohort (575 women, 1123 men). In both cohorts, women were older and had higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In the index and validation cohorts respectively, we found 14/363 and 12/363 biomarkers that were relatively up-regulated in women, while 21/363 and 14/363 were up-regulated in men. In both cohorts, the strongest up-regulated biomarkers in women were leptin and fatty acid binding protein-4, compared to matrix metalloproteinase-3 in men. Similar findings were replicated in a subset of patients from both cohorts matched by age and LVEF. Pathway over-representation analysis revealed increased activity of pathways associated with lipid metabolism in women, and neuro-inflammatory response in men (all p &lt; 0.0001). In two independent cohorts of HF patients, biomarkers associated with lipid metabolic pathways were observed in women, while biomarkers associated with neuro-inflammatory response were more active in men. Differences in inflammatory and metabolic pathways may contribute to sex differences in clinical phenotype observed in HF, and provide useful insights towards development of tailored HF therapies.

EFFECT OF CHOLECALCIFEROL AND ITS COMBINATION WITH METFORMIN ON THE LIPID AND CARBOHYDRATE STATUS IN WOMEN WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Objective. To investigate the effect of therapy with cholecalciferol, metformin and their combination to indicator of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance (IR). Materials and methods. 60 women with PCOS and IR, 30 healthy women similar in age and body weight were examined. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 20 women receiving cholecalciferol at 4000 IU daily; 20 women receiving metformin at 850 mg twice a day; 20 patients taking metformin at 850 mg twice a day and cholecalciferol at 4000 IU daily. Vitamin D, glucose, immunoreactive insulin (IRI), HOMA-IR index, total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), oral glucose tolerance test before and after 12 weeks of therapy were determined. Results. Therapy with cholecalciferol was accompanied by increasing (P &lt; 0.001) in concentrations of vitamin D (158.9 ± 4.7)%, reducing the levels of IRI (P &lt; 0.02), the HOMA-IR indexes (P &lt; 0.001), total cholesterol (P &lt; 0.01) and LDL (P &lt; 0.05), but did not had a significant effect on anthropometric parameters, glucose, TG, and HDL levels. Therapy with metformin was accompanied by decreasing body mass index (BMI) (P &lt; 0.01), basal levels of IRI (24.6 ± 0.4)% (P &lt; 0.001), HOMA-IR index (27.9 ± 0.4)% (P &lt; 0.001), glycemic responses to an oral glucose load (P &lt; 0.001), TG (P &lt; 0.02) and increasing levels of HDL (P &lt; 0.05). No negative dynamics of vitamin D levels was observed. Combination therapy was accompanied by increasing in concentration of vitamin D (P &lt; 0.001), significant decreasing of BMI (P &lt; 0.001), waist-to-hip ratio (P &lt; 0.05), glycemic responses to an oral glucose load (P &lt; 0.001), levels of IRI (P &lt; 0.001) and HOMA-IR indexes (P &lt; 0.001), more significant decreasing in total cholesterol (P &lt; 0.001), TG (P &lt; 0.001), LDL (P &lt; 0.001) and increasing in HDL (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion. It is expedient to use a combination of cholecalciferol with metformin in the complex of therapeutic measures aimed at the correction of metabolic disorders in women with PCOS.

The unexplored role of sedentary time and physical activity in glucose and lipid metabolism-related placental mRNAs in pregnant women who are obese: the DALI lifestyle randomised controlled trial.

We aimed to explore: (i) the association of sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA) during pregnancy with the placental expression of genes related to glucose and lipid metabolism in pregnant women who are obese; (ii) maternal metabolic factors mediating changes in these placental transcripts; and (iii) cord blood markers related to the mRNAs mediating neonatal adiposity. Multicentre randomised controlled trial. Hospitals in nine European countries. A cohort of 112 pregnant women with placental tissue. Both ST and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) levels were measured objectively using accelerometry at three time periods during pregnancy. Placental mRNAs (FATP2, FATP3, FABP4, GLUT1 and PPAR-γ) were measured with NanoString technology. Maternal and fetal metabolic markers and neonatal adiposity were assessed. Longer periods of ST, especially in early to middle pregnancy, was associated with lower placental FATP2 and FATP3 expression (P < 0.05), whereas MVPA at baseline was inversely associated with GLUT1 mRNA (P = 0.02). Although placental FATP2 and FATP3 expression were regulated by the insulin-glucose axis (P < 0.05), no maternal metabolic marker mediated the association of ST/MVPA with placental mRNAs (P > 0.05). Additionally, placental FATP2 expression was inversely associated with cord blood triglycerides and free fatty acids (FFAs; P < 0.01). No cord blood marker mediated neonatal adiposity except for cord blood leptin, which mediated the effects of PPAR-γ on neonatal sum of skinfolds (P < 0.05). In early to middle pregnancy, ST is associated with the expression of placental genes linked to lipid transport. PA is hardly related to transporter mRNAs. Strategies aimed at reducing sedentary behaviour during pregnancy could modulate placental gene expression, which may help to prevent unfavourable fetal and maternal pregnancy outcomes. Reducing sedentary behaviour in pregnancy might modulate placental expression of genes related to lipid metabolism in women who are obese.

Decreased Fatty Acid Transporter FABP1 and Increased Isoprostanes and Neuroprostanes in the Human Term Placenta: Implications for Inflammation and Birth Weight in Maternal Pre-Gestational Obesity.

The rise in prevalence of obesity in women of reproductive age in developed and developing countries might propagate intergenerational cycles of detrimental effects on metabolic health. Placental lipid metabolism is disrupted by maternal obesity, which possibly affects the life-long health of the offspring. Here, we investigated placental lipid metabolism in women with pre-gestational obesity as a sole pregnancy complication and compared it to placental responses of lean women. Open profile and targeted lipidomics were used to assess placental lipids and oxidised products of docosahexaenoic (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA), respectively, neuroprostanes and isoprostanes. Despite no overall signs of lipid accumulation, DHA and AA levels in placentas from obese women were, respectively, 2.2 and 2.5 times higher than those from lean women. Additionally, a 2-fold increase in DHA-derived neuroprostanes and a 1.7-fold increase in AA-derived isoprostanes were seen in the obese group. These changes correlated with a 70% decrease in placental FABP1 protein. Multivariate analyses suggested that neuroprostanes and isoprostanes are associated with maternal and placental inflammation and with birth weight. These results might shed light on the molecular mechanisms associated with altered placental fatty acid metabolism in maternal pre-gestational obesity, placing these oxidised fatty acids as novel mediators of placental function.

CORRELATION BETWEEN SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM AND DYSLIPIDEMIA IN WOMEN IN NORTHEAST CHINA.

It is well known that thyroid hormones are important, being involved in affects the metabolism of carbohydrate, protein, lipids. The relationship between thyroid hormones and lipid metabolism is the focus of recent research. To investigate the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism and lipid metabolism in women. We conducted an epidemiological survey of thyroid diseases among women in Northeast China from September 2014 to December 2014. A total of 1397 women underwent physical examinations and laboratory tests for thyroid function and lipid metabolism. We found that the detection rate of subclinical hypothyroidism was 13.03%. Patients with subclinical hypothyroidism showed significantly higher levels of triglyceride (1.69±1.9 vs. 1.45±1.4) and the risk of hyper triglyceridemia in women with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels ≥10mIU/L was 4.96-fold higher compared with that in the normal population (P<0.01). Disorders of lipid metabolism in women with subclinical hypothyroidism show a direct correlation with the level of TSH, and the risk of hyper triglyceridemia is significantly increased when the level of TSH ≥10mIU/L.

Abstract 13479: Association of Plasma Branched Chain Amino Acid With Biomarkers of Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism in Women

Introduction: We previously observed that circulating branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the relationships of BCAAs with other cardiometabolic pathways other than type 2 diabetes (T2D) are unclear, including inflammation, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose metabolism. Hypothesis: We hypothesized plasma BCAAs are correlated with cardiometabolic dysfunction in women, independent of shared risk factors. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 19,472 participants (mean age=54.9 years, SD=7.2) in the Women’s Health Study without a history of T2D, CVD, or cancer at baseline blood collection. We used multivariable linear regression models comparing quartiles of BCAAs (sum of fasting isoleucine, leucine and valine concentrations via NMR spectroscopy) with biomarkers of inflammation, lipids, and glucose metabolism, adjusting for age, body mass index, smoking, diet, and other CVD risk factors. Results: Women in the highest vs. lowest quartiles of plasma BCAAs had higher inflammatory markers including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP; adjusted mean: 2.7 vs. 2.0 mg/L), fibrinogen (390 vs. 384 mg/dL), GlycA (420 vs. 384 μmol/L), and soluble intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1; 350 vs. 341 ng/mL) (p&lt;0.001 for linear trends across quartiles). Similarly for lipids, women with higher BCAAs had lower HDL-c (48.8 vs. 54.7 mg/dL), and higher LDL-c (142 vs. 135 mg/dL) and triglycerides (142 vs. 114 mg/dL) (p&lt;0.001). BCAAs were positively associated with insulin resistance (lipoprotein insulin resistance [LPIR] score [54.8 vs. 40.0]) and HbA1c (5.2 vs. 5.1%). BCAAs remained associated with GlycA and hsCRP, but not fibrinogen or sICAM-1, when we further adjusted for LPIR and HbA1c, and remained associated with lipids after additional adjustment for HbA1c. Conclusions: Circulating BCAAs are concurrently associated with biomarkers of inflammation, dyslipidemia and impaired glucose metabolism indicative of an overall poorer cardiometabolic health profile. BCAAs remained positively associated with some of these pathways when adjusted for impaired glucose metabolism, suggesting elevated BCAAs may be an independent CVD risk factor in women.

Role of Androgen in Liver Fat Content in Women: Metabolically Advantageous or Disadvantageous?

Objective: Androgens have a controversial effect on liver fat content (LFC) in androgen-excess females and androgen-deficient males. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is often associated with hyperandrogenism and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of this study was to explore the association between hyperandrogenemia and increased liver fat content in women with PCOS, independent of other metabolic parameters.Methods: This case series study included 501 women with PCOS and 112 aged-matched controls in the outpatient department of a tertiary hospital. Anthropometric measurements, hepatic and renal function, glucose and lipid metabolism parameters, and sex hormones were examined in these women. LFC was measured by quantitative ultrasonography.Results: Women with hyperandrogenism (P<.001), an oligomenorrhoea/anovulation phenotype (P = .0064), and a diagnosis of PCOS (P<.001) had higher LFC. Androgen level is an important factor among the 9 independent risk factors of LFC (P = .0239) and may have a dimorphic impact on LFC. In all women, when the free androgen index (FAI) was less than 41.94, LFC increased with the elevated FAI; when the FAI was greater than 41.94, LFC decreased with the elevated FAI (P<.001). In women with PCOS, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that LFC could at least partially predict impaired glucose regulation, impaired lipid metabolism, and insulin resistance (P<.0001 for all).Conclusion: Androgen level is associated with LFC in dimorphic directions. LFC may be a predictive factor of insulin resistance, impaired glucose regulation, and impaired lipid metabolism in women with PCOS.

Placental lipid metabolism in preeclampsia.

The current study examines the placental and maternal lipid profile and expression of genes involved in placental lipid metabolism in women with preeclampsia. The current study includes normotensive control women (n = 40) and women with preeclampsia (n = 39). Preeclampsia women were further classified into women delivering at term preeclampsia (T-PE; n = 15) and preterm preeclampsia (PT-PE; n = 24). There were no significant differences in maternal lipid profile between the T-PE and normotensive control groups. Maternal plasma VLDL (P < 0.05) and ratios of total cholesterol : HDL (P < 0.05), atherogenic index [log (triglycerides/HDL)] (P < 0.01) and apolipoprotein B : apolipoprotein A (P < 0.05) were higher in the PT-PE group as compared with the normotensive control group. Placental total cholesterol and HDL levels were higher (P < 0.05) in the T-PE as compared with the normotensive control group. Higher placental triglycerides (P < 0.05) were observed in PT-PE group compared with T-PE group. Placental mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α, carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1, cluster of differentiation 36 and lipoprotein lipases were lower (P < 0.05) in the PT-PE than normotensive control group. A negative association of mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (r = -0.246, P = 0.032; r = -0.308, P = 0.007, respectively), carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1 (r = -0.292, P = 0.011; r = -0.366, P = 0.001), lipoprotein lipases (r = -0.296, P = 0.010; r = -0.254, P = 0.028) with SBP and DBP was observed. There was a positive association of placental triglycerides (r = 0.244, P = 0.031) with DBP. Women with preeclampsia exhibit higher lipid : lipoprotein ratios suggesting an atherogenic state particularly in women delivering preterm. Lower expression of genes involved in placental fatty acid oxidation and transport was also observed in preeclampsia.

Hepatocyte Notch Signaling Deregulation Related to Lipid Metabolism in Women with Obesity and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver.

This cohort study aimed to explore the relationship between the Notch signaling pathway and the degree of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Moreover, this study intended to investigate whether this pathway is related to hepatic lipid metabolism and Toll-like receptors (TLRs). This study used real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis to evaluate the hepatic expression level of all genes studied (Notch receptors NOTCH1, NOTCH2, NOTCH3, and NOTCH4, transcription factors HES1 and HES5, and Hes-related repressor proteins HEY1 and HEY2) in hepatic tissue from two cohorts: women with severe obesity (n = 57) and normal liver structure (n = 20) or NAFLD (n = 37). In women with severe obesity and NAFLD, this study found downregulation of hepatic HES5 expression. This expression correlated positively with the hepatic expression of HES1, HEY1, and NOTCH3. This study also found a positive correlation between HES5 expression and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) and between NOTCH3 and several genes related to hepatic lipid metabolism (encoding liver X nuclear receptor α variant 1, farnesoid X nuclear receptor, SREBP1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, fatty acid synthase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1, carnitine O-octanoyltransferase, ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1, and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1). Finally, this study found a positive correlation between NOTCH2 and TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 and a positive relationship between NOTCH1 and TLR9. Taken together, these findings suggest that hepatic expression of Notch proteins and ligands in relation to lipid metabolism pathways in the liver could have a role in NAFLD pathogenesis.

Effect of the Fat Eaten at Breakfast on Lipid Metabolism: A Crossover Trial in Women with Cardiovascular Risk.

Recent studies point out that not only the daily intake of energy and nutrients but the time of day when they are ingested notably regulates lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk (CVR). Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess if the type of fat ingested at breakfast can modify lipid metabolism in women with CVR. A randomized, crossover clinical trial was performed. Sixty volunteers were randomly assigned to a (A) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-rich breakfast, (B) saturated fatty acid (SFA)-rich breakfast, or (C) monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA)-rich breakfast. Plasma lipoprotein and apolipoprotein subfractions were determined. Our data showed that the PUFA-rich breakfast decreased lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL), and increased high-density lipoproteins (HDL). A similar trend was observed for the MUFA-rich breakfast, whereas the SFA-rich breakfast, although it decreased VLDL, also increased IDL and reduced HDL. The PUFA-rich breakfast also decreased β-lipoproteins and apolipoprotein-B. In summary, varying the type of fat eaten at breakfast is enough to significantly modify the lipid metabolism of women with CVR, which can be of great relevance to establish new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these subjects.

The effect of estroprogestagen therapy on lipid status in menopause depending on the drug administration route

Background/Aim. In menopausal women lipid and lipoprotein values are important predictors of development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The use of estrogens reduces levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) and lipoprotein A [Lp(a)], and increases levels of triglycerides (TG) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) depending on the dose and route of administration. Simultaneous administration of progesterone, depending on the type, can have different effects on lipids. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of estroprogestagen therapy on the lipid metabolism of women in menopause, depending on the administration route. Methods. A study was conducted as prospective clinical interventional study with controlled parallel groups. It included 64 women in menopause, divided into three groups: the group 1 (n = 22) on oral therapy with estroprogestagens, the group 2 (n = 17) on transdermal patch therapy with estroprogestagens and the group 3 (n = 25) treated with estroprogestagens given intramuscularly. The following biochemical parameters in the serum were determined: total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, LDL-C, TG, Lp(a), apoprotein A (Apo-A), apoprotein B (Apo-B), follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, sex hormonebinding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-SO4), prolactin and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prior to administration of the menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT), as well as after sixth months and 2?5 years from the beginning of the therapy. The statistical significance of the difference in values obtained was examined independently and depending on the route of MHT application. Results. MHT, regardless of the administration route, led to a statistically significant continuous decrease of TC, LDL-C and Apo-B levels and the continuous increase of HDL-C and Apo-A levels. Serum levels of TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, Lp(a), Apo-A and Apo-B did not show a statistically significant differences among groups of women given MHT by different routes. It was found that the serum level of Apo-A increased significantly with the rise of estradiol, and the values of LDL and Apo-B decreased regardless of the route of the MHT application. Conclusion. MHT introduced in time, regardless of the route of administration, has beneficial effects on the lipid status of menopausal women and consequently might prevent numerous cardiovascular diseases that are the leading cause of mortality.

Gender Differences with Dose⁻Response Relationship between Serum Selenium Levels and Metabolic Syndrome-A Case-Control Study.

Few studies have investigated the association between selenium and metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to explore the associations between the serum selenium level and metabolic syndrome as well as examining each metabolic factor. In this case-control study, the participants were 1165 adults aged ≥40 (65.8 ± 10.0) years. Serum selenium was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The associations between serum selenium and metabolic syndrome were examined by multivariate logistic regression analyses. The least square means were computed by general linear models to compare the serum selenium levels in relation to the number of metabolic factors. The mean serum selenium concentration was 96.34 ± 25.90 μg/L, and it was positively correlated with waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, fasting glucose, and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in women, but it was only correlated with fasting glucose and HOMA-IR in men. After adjustment, the odds ratios (ORs) of having metabolic syndrome increased with the selenium quartile groups (p for trend: <0.05), especially in women. The study demonstrated that the serum selenium levels were positively associated with metabolic syndrome following a non-linear dose–response trend. Selenium concentration was positively associated with insulin resistance in men and women, but it was associated with adiposity and lipid metabolism in women. The mechanism behind this warrants further confirmation.

Effect of a Long Bout Versus Short Bouts of Walking on Weight Loss During a Weight-Loss Diet: A Randomized Trial.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different daily physical activity (PA) frequencies, while maintaining the same daily volume of PA, on weight loss, carbohydrate metabolism, and lipid metabolism in women with overweight or obesity throughout a 24-week intervention. During their weight-loss plan, 65 women (BMI=27-35kg/m2 ; age=18-40years) who had a sedentary lifestyle were randomly allocated to the following groups: diet plus a long bout of moderate physical activity (LBP) (one 50-minute bout of moderate-intensity PA) 6d/wk or diet plus short bouts of moderate physical activity (SBP) (two 25-minute bouts of moderate-intensity PA) 6d/wk. Anthropometric and blood measurements were taken at baseline and at 24weeks. Compared with the LBP group, the SBP group had a greater decrease in weight (SBP: -8.08±2.20kg; LBP: -6.39±2.28kg; P=0.019), BMI (SBP: -3.11±0.87kg/m2 ; LBP: -2.47±0.86kg/m2 ; P=0.027), and waist circumference (SBP: -8.78±2.62cm; LBP: -5.76±2.03cm; P=0.026). No significant differences were seen in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism characteristics after 24weeks. PA undertaken in two shorter bouts per day could be more effective for weight loss than PA undertaken in a daily long bout in adult women in a 24-week weight-loss program.

Comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and gene expression related to insulin and lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial

This investigation was conducted to evaluate comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and gene expression related to insulin and lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 53 women with PCOS, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to take either myo-inositol (n = 26) or metformin (n = 27) for 12 weeks. Myo-inositol supplementation, compared with metformin, significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (β −5.12 mg/dL; 95% CI, −8.09, −2.16; p=.001), serum insulin levels (β −1.49 µIU/mL; 95% CI, −2.28, −0.70; p<.001), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (β −0.36; 95% CI, −0.55, −0.17; p<.001), serum triglycerides (β 12.42 mg/dL; 95% CI, −20.47, −4.37; p=.003) and VLDL-cholesterol levels (β −2.48 mg/dL; 95% CI, −4.09, −0.87; p=.003), and significantly increased the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (β 0.006; 95% CI, 0.002, 0.01; p=.006) compared with metformin. Moreover, myo-inositol supplementation upregulated gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (p=.002) compared with metformin. Overall, taking myo-inositol, compared with metformin, for 12 weeks by women with PCOS had beneficial effects on glycemic control, triglycerides and VLDL-cholesterol levels, and gene expression of PPAR-γ.