Lower Triglyceride Research Articles

Dietary inclusion of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal, with exogenous protease supplementation, in practical diets for striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus, Sauvage 1878).

Fishmeal (FM) is a key component of commercial fish feeds, but due its unsustainable supply, the search for quality alternatives of FM has become a significant area of investigation worldwide. The insect-based proteins such as black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are being recognized as an alternative ingredient. However, anti-nutritional factors in these alternatives may negatively affect nutrient utilization in fish. Incorporating exogenous protease enzymes as feed additives could be a promising way to improve the digestibility of these alternative ingredients. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary inclusion of BSFL meal, combined with protease supplementation, on various parameters of striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus). Five diets were formulated: a control diet (FM-based), two diets with 30% and 60% BSFL inclusion (BSF30 and BSF60), and two diets with the same inclusion levels plus the incorporation of exogenous protease (BSF30P and BSF60P). One hundred fifty fish (8.26±0.02 g) were arbitrarily allocated to five groups, each with three replicates. The fish were provided with their respective diets twice per day for 60 days. In comparison to the control, fish-fed diets supplemented with protease demonstrated statistically significant lower levels of feed conversion ratio and higher growth performance regarding the final body weight and weight gain. Lipase activity in the BSF60P group was notably greater than in the control group. Protease supplementation significantly enhanced the apparent digestibility coefficient of protein, intestinal protease activity, and crude protein content in the whole body. Most hematological and biochemical parameters remained unaffected except for substantially lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the highest BSFL inclusion groups. These groups also showed a reduction in crude fat contents. While glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde levels did not change significantly from the control, the liver tissues of fish fed BSF60P diets showed considerably higher levels of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and superoxide dismutase. The findings suggest that including 60% of a BSFL based diet, along with exogenous protease supplementation, is feasible without compromising the growth performance and health of striped catfish.

Effects of a Paternal Diet High in Animal Protein (Casein) versus Plant Protein (Pea Protein with added Methionine) on Offspring Metabolic and Gut Microbiota Outcomes in Rats.

Evidence suggests that paternal diet can influence offspring metabolic health intergenerationally but whether dietary animal and plant proteins differ in their impact on fathers and their offspring is not known. Our objective was to examine the effects of a paternal diet high in casein versus pea protein on fathers and their offspring. Five-week-old male rats were fed: 1) control, 2) high animal protein (AP, 36.1% of energy as casein), or 3) high plant protein (PP, 36.1% of energy as pea protein with added methionine) diets for 8-11 weeks before being mated. Offspring were challenged with a high fat/sucrose diet (HFD) from 10-16 weeks of age. Metabolic and microbial outcomes were assessed in both generations. In fathers fed PP diet, enhanced insulin sensitivity and lower liver triglycerides were seen alongside altered hepatic microRNA expression and gut microbial profiles. Few changes were seen in their offspring. In contrast, the paternal AP diet influenced adult offspring hepatic microRNA expression and programmed a latent increase in adiposity, dysregulated satiety hormones, and modified gut microbial composition in their adult offspring that occurred following the HFD. Overall, a diet high in pea protein with added methionine demonstrated protective effects on biomarkers of metabolic health in the fathers but led to minimal effects on the offspring while a paternal diet high in casein led to evidence of an increase in characteristics of metabolic dysfunction in their adult offspring when unmasked by exposure to a HFD for 6 weeks.

Analyzing lipid profiles and dyslipidemia prevalence in hypertensive patients: a cross-sectional study from primary community health institutions

BackgroundA significant proportion of hypertensive patients also suffer from comorbid dyslipidemia, which critically influences their treatment outcomes and overall prognosis. Given its implications, the lipid profiles of hypertensive individuals warrant increased attention for more effective clinical management.MethodsWe analyzed data from 92,443 hypertensive patients registered at primary community health institutions in 2021. Employing a cross-sectional study design, we assessed the distribution of lipid levels and the prevalence of various dyslipidemia subtypes. Stepwise forward logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with dyslipidemia, adjusting for gender, age, body size, and other relevant characteristics.ResultsAccording to the 2023 Chinese Guidelines for the Management of Lipids, the overall prevalence of dyslipidemia was 37.5%. Subtype analysis revealed prevalence of high total cholesterol (TC) at 11.2%, high triglycerides (TG) at 16.0%, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) at 16.0%, and high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) at 10.2%. TG abnormalities were more common among males (16.8%), whereas TC abnormalities predominated in females (14.4%). Notably, hypertensive patients with diabetes had higher levels of TG compared to non-diabetics (p = 0.009). Those with stroke and liver disease comorbidities exhibited lower TG levels than their counterparts (p = 0.018 and p < 0.001, respectively). Additionally, HDL-C levels were significantly lower in hypertensives with diabetes, coronary artery disease, and central obesity (p < 0.001, p = 0.026, p < 0.001, respectively). Regression analysis indicated that dyslipidemia prevalence correlates significantly with gender, age, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, family history of hypertension, body mass index (BMI), central obesity, frequency of physical activity, smoking status, regular alcohol consumption, and abdominal ultrasound findings.ConclusionOur study underscores the necessity of rigorous lipid monitoring and analysis of dyslipidemia-influencing factors for the development of effective health management strategies within the community. There is a critical need to examine lipid profiles comprehensively and implement targeted therapeutic interventions aimed at managing hyperlipidemia, a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Triglycerides and the Risk of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Events Across Different Risk Categories.

To investigate the association between triglyceride levels and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in primary and secondary prevention cohorts. This retrospective study was conducted with a nationwide health insurance claims database, which included approximately 3.8 million participants with medical checkups between January 2005 and August 2020 in Japan. The participants were classified into primary prevention (n=3,415,522) and secondary prevention (n=29,806) cohorts based on cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease history. Each participant was categorized as having very low (triglyceride ＜50 mg/dL), low normal (50-99), high normal (100-149), or hypertriglyceridemia (≥ 150). The primary prevention cohort was further stratified into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups according to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk. Outcome was MACE, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), unstable angina, ischemic stroke, and cardiac death. Over a mean follow-up of 3.25 years, 0.3% and 2.6% MACE occurred in primary and secondary prevention, respectively. Hypertriglyceridemia was associated with high risk of MACE in the primary prevention, but not in the secondary prevention. A significant interaction was observed between prevention categories and the association of TG levels with MACE in those with TG ＜150 mg/dL and ischemic stroke in those with TG ≥ 150 mg/dL. The population-attributable fraction for hypertriglyceridemia in primary prevention was 4.1% for MACE. In primary prevention, lower risks of AMI were observed in the lower TG category compared to the current threshold. This study suggests distinct triglyceride thresholds for MACE risk in primary and secondary prevention cohorts, requiring further prospective validation for clinical implementation.

Better cardiometabolic/inflammatory profile is associated with differences in the supraclavicular adipose tissue activity of individuals with T2DM.

Brown adipose tissue (BAT), located in the supraclavicular region, has been associated with a better cardiometabolic profile and reduced risk of developing non-communicable chronic diseases (NCD), in addition to being associated with a healthier phenotype in obesity. However, it is unknown whether greater supraclavicular adipose tissue activity could be associated with a healthier metabolic profile in people already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Thus, the present work evaluated if supraclavicular adipose tissue activity is associated with metabolic and molecular markers in individuals with T2DM. Based on a cluster study, individuals with T2DM were divided into groups according to high or low-standard uptake value (SUV) evaluated in the supraclavicular adipose tissue area by [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) after mild cold exposure). Functional, biochemical, inflammatory, and molecular markers were measured. When we evaluated the whole sample, women showed higher SUV, which favored a difference between groups in sex-related markers. On the other hand, volunteers in the high-SUV group showed lower BMI, monocytes count, triglycerides/glucose index (TYG-index) and z score of metabolic syndrome (MS) values, as well as lower triglycerides, and VLDL concentrations. Moreover, they also had enhanced expression of thermogenic genes in subcutaneous fat. When analyzing only women, the differences in markers associated with sex disappear, and a lower count of leukocytes, platelets, along with lower TYG-index, z score of MS values, and triglycerides, VLDL, LDL, and TNFα concentrations were observed in women with the high SUV. In addition, higher expression of thermogenic genes and BECN1 were detected. Higher supraclavicular adipose tissue SUV in individuals with T2DM is associated with a better cardiometabolic/inflammatory profile and expression of thermogenic genes. UTN: U1111-1202-1476 - 08/20/2020.

Five-Year Incidence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Its Risk Factors in Adult Chinese Population: The Tongren Health Care Study.

To examine the 5-year incidence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and its associated factors in an adult Chinese population. The Tongren Health Care Study included individuals attending regular health care check-up examinations in the Beijing Tongren Hospital. Baseline examinations were performed from 2014 to 2015, with 5-year follow-up examinations conducted between 2019 and 2020. Fundus photographs were graded according to the Beckman Initiative guidelines. A total of 5658 participants with gradable photographs at both examinations were included in the study, comprising 58.0% women, with a mean age of 54.9 ± 11.0years. The 5-year incidence of any, early, intermediate, and late AMD were 6.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.5%-6.8%), 5.0% (95% CI, 4.4%-5.6%), 3.4% (95% CI, 2.9%-3.9%), and 0.3% (95% CI, 0.2%-0.4%), respectively. In multivariate analysis, incident early AMD was associated with older age (P < 0.001; odds ratio [OR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02-1.06), female sex (P = 0.011; OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.08-1.86), and a higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (P = 0.020; OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.02-1.30), whereas having diabetes was a protective factor (P = 0.019; OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.41-0.92). Incident intermediate AMD was associated with older age (P < 0.001; OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.04-1.07), a higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (P < 0.001; OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.38-2.83) and a lower triglyceride level (P = 0.008; OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.64-0.93). A higher estimated glomerular filtration rate level was a risk factor for incident early AMD. A higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and lower triglyceride level were risk factors for incident intermediate AMD. This finding may point to the role of renal circulation and lipid metabolism in incident AMD. This community-based longitudinal study may provide a valuable understanding of AMD and its associated factors for targeted prevention and management strategies.

Changing the Oral Tribology of Emulsions Through Crystallization of the Dispersed Triglyceride Phase.

Suspoemulsions are used for food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, including food such as dairy products and non-dairy alternatives. Product properties, such as flow behavior or sensory perception of non-dairy products differ from those of dairy products and are therefore perceived by consumers as products of inferior quality. One reason for this may be the crystallization behavior of the added triglycerides leading to differences in solid fat content in comparison to cow milk. This is discussed with the solidity of the dispersed phase as a parameter of suspoemulsions. The solidity was varied by using low and high melting triglycerides and measuring at different temperatures. The dispersed phase fraction is φ = 30%. The droplet size distribution showed a x50,3 of 1.2 and 3.66 μm, mimicking the droplet sizes of milk and dairy cream. Rheological frequency sweeps were carried out within a temperature range from 5°C to 50°C. The differences in solidity of the dispersed phase caused no changes in viscosity at each temperature. In contrast, oral tribology distinguished different solidities of the dispersed phase with changes in the friction coefficient. The friction coefficient was determined for increasing rotational speeds (0.01-100 mm/s), to compare the so called Stribeck curves with each other. In general, with increasing solidity of the dispersed phase, the friction coefficient increases. Comparing the Stribeck curves of pure butter fat suspoemulsion with those of plant-based fat suspoemulsions, different plant-based fats can be mixed, to mimic the friction profile of milk products in plant-based alternatives.

Dodecanedioic acid prevents and reverses metabolic-associated liver disease and obesity and ameliorates liver fibrosis in a rodent model of diet-induced obesity.

Dodecanedioic acid (DC12) is a dicarboxylic acid present in protective polymers of fruit and leaves. We explored the effects of DC12 on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and obesity. DC12 supplementation (100 mg/kg/day) was added to a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks in rodents to assess its impact on obesity and MASH prevention. Rats given DC12 experienced significant reductions of weight gain, liver and visceral fat weight, and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Liver histology showed protection against diet-induced MASH, with reduced steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and fibrosis. For weight-loss and MASH reversion, rats were fed HFD for 14 weeks, followed by 6 weeks with or without DC12. DC12 supplementation (100 mg/kg/day) led to a significant reduction of weight gain and liver weight. DC12 induced white adipose tissue beiging and reduced adiposity with a decrease of visceral fat. It also improved glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and reduced hepatic gluconeogenic gene expression. Liver histology revealed a significant reduction in steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and inflammation as well as fibrosis, indicating MASH reversal. DC12 reduced hepatic lipogenesis enzymes as well as de novo lipogenesis measured by deuterated water and increased fatty acid β-oxidation. Plasma lipid profile showed lower triglycerides and phosphatidylcholines in the DC12 group. Notably, DC12 decreased mINDY expression, the cell membrane Na+-coupled citrate transporter, reducing citrate uptake and de-novo lipogenesis, linking its effects to improved lipid metabolism and reduced steatosis. We found that during the hepatic first pass, half of the DC12 ingested with water was taken up by the liver. The concentration of DC12 in the portal vein falls within the range identified invitro as sufficient to inhibit citrate transport in hepatocytes.

Isoliquiritigenin Prevents the Development of Nephropathy by an HFD in Rats Through the Induction of Antioxidant Production and Inhibition of the MD-2/TLR4/NF-κB Pathway

This study tested the ISL against renal damage induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and explored its underlying mechanisms. Adult male rats were assigned to four groups: (1) control on a standard diet (STD), (2) ISL on STD (30 mg/kg), (3) HFD, and (4) HFD + ISL (30 mg/kg). After 12 weeks of dietary intervention, ISL treatment led to significant reductions in body weight gain, visceral fat, and glucose and insulin levels in HFD-fed rats. Notably, ISL decreased serum urea and creatinine, increased serum albumin, and improved urinary profiles by lowering the urinary albumin and the albumin/creatinine ratio. Histological analyses revealed that ISL enhanced the glomerular structure and mitigated tubular damage, as evidenced by reduced urinary excretion of the kidney injury markers NGAL and KIM-1. Additionally, ISL significantly lowered cholesterol, triglycerides, and free fatty acids in both the control and HFD groups while also decreasing oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDLs) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Importantly, ISL enhanced renal antioxidant levels, increasing glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Moreover, ISL downregulated mRNA levels of MD-2, Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), and NF-κB, leading to reduced NF-κB p65 levels in renal tissues. In conclusion, ISL offers substantial protection against HFD-induced renal toxicity through mechanisms that attenuate metabolic stress, enhance antioxidant defenses, and inhibit the MD-2/TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory pathway.

Metabolic syndrome in association with novel dietary index, metabolic parameters, nesfatin-1 and omentin-1

BackgroundMetabolic syndrome is a prevalent and common health problem and numerous studies have revealed the role of diet and lifestyle change in prevention of metabolic syndrome. However, the novel dietary index, cardioprotective index (CPI) and its association with metabolic syndrome is not investigated yet. In the current study, we evaluated the association between metabolic syndrome and its components, CPI, Nesfatin-1 and Omentin-1in a cross-sectional study.MethodsThree hundred forty eight overweight and obese individuals with metabolic syndrome were recruited. Subjects underwent anthropometric and laboratory assays including metabolic markers, Nesfatin-1 and Omentin-1 with commercial kits.ResultsThose at the first tertile of CPI had lower high density lipoprotein concentrations (HDL) and higher low density lipoprotein concentrations (LDL), triglyceride (TG), systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP, DBP) levels compared with those at the highest tertiles (P < 0.05). After adjustment for the confounding effects of age, sex, body mass index, physical activity and total calorie intake, LDL lost its significance across CPI tertiles. Moreover, serum total cholesterol, insulin and insulin resistance were not significant across CPI tertiles neither in crude nor in adjusted models (P > 0.05). Additionally, being at the third tertile of CPI was accompanied with significantly higher Nesfatin-1 and Omentin-1 levels compared with lowest tertiels (P < 0.05) in crude and confounder – adjusted models. Conclusions: To our findings, CPI was in positive relationship with metabolic parameters, blood pressure, Nesfatin-1 and Omentin-1 levels in metabolic syndrome. Further future studies will help to elaborate the causality.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Triglyceride levels are associated with 30-day mortality in intensive care patients: a retrospective analysis in the MIMIC-IV database

BackgroundPrevious studies suggest that septic patients often have elevated triglyceride levels due to various factors, and higher levels may indicate a poorer prognosis. However, few studies have investigated whether lower triglycerides are associated with a better prognosis.MethodsThe Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database provided all the data. To assess the association between triglycerides and prognosis, we used logistic regression analysis (LR), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Cox proportional hazards models.ResultsInclusion criteria were met by a total of 804 patients with a mean triglyceride of 103 mg/dL. We found that patients had a higher risk of 30-day ICU mortality when triglycerides were in the second quartile (74–103 mg/dL). Interestingly, this group of patients seems to benefit more from the use of atorvastatin.ConclusionOur study showed that septic patients with triglyceride levels in the second quartile (74–103 mg/dL) have a higher 30-day ICU mortality rate compared to those with triglyceride levels in other quartiles.

The effect of thymus vulgaris extract and probiotic on growth performance, blood parameters, intestinal morphology, and litter quality of broiler chickens fed low-protein diets

This study investigated the effects of Thymus vulgaris extract (TVE) and probiotic (Protexin) on Arian broiler chickens fed low protein diets over 42 days. The 2 × 3 factorial experiment involved two dietary crude protein (CP) levels and three supplementations, each with five replicates of 10 birds. The CP levels included a control group and a low-CP group with 5% reduced CP content. The supplementations were: no additive, probiotic at 0.1 g/kg diet, and TVE at 1 ml/L drinking water. GC-MS analysis of TVE identified linalool (28.54%), carvacrol (20.22%), and thymol (7.07%) as key bioactive compounds. Low-CP diets increased feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the grower period (P > 0.05). Additives boosted FI and body weight gain (BWG) during the starter period, with probiotics having a stronger effect (P < 0.05). TVE improved protein efficiency ratio (PER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER), while both TVE and probiotics enhanced European production efficiency factor (EPEF) to levels like normal-CP diets (P < 0.05). Intestinal morphology was unaffected by treatments (P > 0.05). Low-CP diets reduced serum albumin levels (P < 0.05). TVE lowered serum cholesterol and triglycerides, while probiotic reduced triglycerides (P < 0.05). TVE also decreased alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and probiotics reduced alanine transaminase (ALT) compared to control (P < 0.05). Cholesterol levels decreased with the normal diet combined with TVE, while TG levels were reduced with the diets combined with TVE and probiotics (P < 0.05). ALP and ALT levels dropped with low-CP × TVE and normal diet × probiotic, respectively (P < 0.05). Low-CP diets and TVE groups showed reduced litter nitrogen (P < 0.05). These results suggest that probiotics and TVE can alleviate the negative effects of low-CP diets on broiler performance. Additionally, probiotics and TVE improve blood biochemistry and litter quality in broiler chickens.

Long-Term Propolis Intake-Induced Liver Lipid Remodeling in Mice: Effects on Phospholipid-to-Glycerolipid Metabolism and Free Fatty Acid-Mediated Thermogenesis.

Research on the patterns and mechanisms of liver lipid remodeling regulated by propolis is limited. In the present study, the nine-month experimental duration has shed light on the positive influences of propolis on lipid metabolism and thermogenesis capacity in the livers of mice. Eight major compounds in propolis were characterized using UPLC-QTOF-MS technology. Propolis significantly lowered serum triglycerides (TGs) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), but it also led to increased insulin (INS) levels. Lipidomics change trend analysis of 1671 lipid components across 42 categories revealed that the level of glycerophospholipids (GPs) decreased while glycerolipids (GLs) and fatty acids (FAs) increased in the liver. The expression levels of eight key genes involved in the conversion of GP to GL pathways in the liver were enhanced in the propolis group. Molecular docking results elucidated the high binding affinities between the eight components of propolis and eight receptors involved in lipid metabolism, indicating that primary compounds of propolis possess potent capabilities for phospholipid remodeling and lipolysis. These results imply that propolis could facilitate the browning of the liver adipose tissue, promote the conversion of GPs to DGs and FFAs, enhance the consumption of FFAs through thermogenic pathways, and thereby exert lipolytic and hepatoprotective functions.

Metabolic Syndrome and the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease: A Meta-Analysis.

Purpose: The relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unclear. This meta-analysis aims to clarify the prospective association between MetS and AD risk and to explore how individual MetS components contribute to this relationship. Methods: Comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Embase were conducted up to April 12, 2024. Relevant prospective cohort studies were included. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the associations. A random-effects model was used to incorporate the potential impact of heterogeneity. Findings: Six prospective cohort studies with seven datasets, including 484,994 participants and a follow-up of 3.5 to 13.0 years, were included. The pooled analysis showed no significant association between MetS and AD risk (HR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.89-1.04, P = 0.37; I2 = 0%). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses confirmed these findings. Individual MetS components exhibited varied effects as follows: abdominal obesity was linked to a reduced AD risk (Risk ratio (RR): 0.70, 95% CI: 0.56-0.88, P = 0.002), whereas high blood pressure (BP) (RR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04-1.27, P = 0.007) and hyperglycemia (RR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.08-1.42, P = 0.002) were associated with an increased risk. Low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high triglycerides showed no significant associations. Conclusions: This meta-analysis found no significant overall association between MetS and AD risk. However, specific MetS components, such as abdominal obesity, high BP, and hyperglycemia, may influence AD risk differently.

Interrogating the Antiobesity Efficacy of Flacourtia Inermis Roxb. Fruits in High Fat Diet-induced Obese Rats

Background Flacourtia inermis Roxb. (Salicaceae) is an underutilized edible fruit known for its antioxidant-rich bioactive compounds. This study explores the antiobesity potential of F. inermis ethanolic fruit extract (FF2) in a high-fat diet (HFD) induced obesity model using Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 6). Group 1 served as the normal control and received a normal diet (ND), while Groups II–V were induced with obesity by being fed an HFD for 10 weeks. Group II acted as the obese control, receiving 100% HFD throughout the study. Groups III, IV, and V also received HFD throughout the study but were supplemented with Orlistat (30 mg/kg b.w), and FF2 extract at doses of 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg, respectively, from week 11 until week 15. Treatment impact of FF2 on body weight, body mass index (BMI), serum lipid levels, glucose levels, liver function parameters, and histopathological evaluations of liver and adipose tissue were investigated. Results The study unveiled that F. inermis fruits exerted potent antiobesity effects, with FF2 treatment (at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) substantially decreasing body weight gain and BMI in comparison to the HFD group. Supplementation of FF2 alongside an HFD reduced body weight gain, glucose levels, and serum lipid profile. Both doses of FF2 counteracted the adverse effects induced by HFD, with lower triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels, and higher HDL cholesterol levels in the treated groups compared to the positive control. Additionally, FF2 extract showed dose-dependent improvements in serum lipid and glucose levels, as well as, hepatic profile, indicated by decreased AST, ALP, and ALT levels, suggesting potential benefits in managing dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and liver health associated with obesity. Histological examination of white adipose tissue provided further evidence of the antiobesity effect. Conclusion The study highlights FF2’s therapeutic potential in managing obesity and associated metabolic disorders. Further investigations into FF2’s mechanisms and clinical application are essential for its development as an antiobesity therapeutic agent in functional food formulations.

Effects of metformin supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets on growth performance, glucose metabolism, intestinal flora, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀×Epinephelus lanceolatu♂)

Metformin, or 1,1-dimethylbiguanide, is a hypoglycemic drug that lowers blood glucose by reducing glycogen synthesis and increasing glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Six diets with iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipid compositions were prepared, including a positive control (20 % carbohydrate, PC) and a negative control (30 % carbohydrate, T0). The experimental diets contained 0.2 % (T2), 0.4 % (T4), 0.6 % (T6), and 0.8 % (T8) metformin based on the negative control diet. A total of 540 hybrid groupers, with consistent size and health conditions, were randomly assigned to six groups. Each group contained 30 fish, with three replicates per group, and they were fed for eight weeks. The high-carbohydrate diet reduced weight gain, digestive enzyme activities and specific growth rates (P>0.05), while significantly increasing hepatosomatic indices (P<0.05). Metformin supplementation reduced both hepatosomatic and viscerosomatic indices (P<0.05). The high-carbohydrate diet led to increased levels of glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, hepatic fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, and glucose-6-phosphatase in the serum (P<0.05). In contrast, metformin supplementation significantly lowered glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein levels (P<0.05), while enhancing the activities of hepatic glucokinase, phosphofructokinase-1, and pyruvate kinase (P<0.05). It significantly reduced the activities of PEPCK and G6Pase and downregulated the expression of ir, pi3k, pdk, ampkα1, and gs in fish on high-carbohydrate diets, while metformin supplementation upregulated the expression of ir, pi3k, pdk, ampkα1, and gs genes compared to the T0 group (P<0.05). In terms of microbiota, a high-carbohydrate diet increased pathogenic bacteria like Proteobacteria and Photobacterium, while metformin boosted beneficial bacteria such as Firmicutes and Brevibacillus. Overall, the high-carbohydrate diet impaired growth and insulin sensitivity, while metformin improved glucose metabolism, promoted beneficial bacteria, and supported intestinal health.

Chromium supplementation and type 2 diabetes mellitus: an extensive systematic review.

Diabetes is a global public health concern with increasing prevalence worldwide. Chromium (Cr), a trace element found in soil, water, and food, has been proposed to have a possible positive effect in glucose metabolism and diabetes mellitus prevention. However, the relationship between trivalent chromium [Cr(III)] exposure, mainly through the consumption of diet supplements, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains controversial. An extensive systematic review of the current literature on randomized controlled studies (RCTs) was conducted from 1 January 2000, to January 2024 using the databases PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane, with specific keywords and inclusion as well as exclusion criteria. After close screening of the research studies retrieved from the mentioned websites was conducted, the most related studies were included in the final systematic review. The studies were evaluated for the degree of relevance, quality, and risk bias, using appropriate quality assessment tools. Several of the included RCT studies reported possible benefits of Cr(III) supplementation, mainly in the form of chromium picolinate (CrPic), chromium yeast (CY), chromium chloride (CrCl3), and chromium nicotinate (CrN). The dosage of chromium was between 50 and 1000μg/day and it was consumed from 2 to 6months. Glycemic control markers, including FPG, insulin, HbA1C, and HOMA-IR levels, significantly decrease following chromium supplementation, mainly in studies with a longer intervention period. Supplementing with chromium (Cr) indicated that could significantly improve lipid profile by raising high-density lipoprotein and lowering triglyceride and total cholesterol while having little effect on low-density lipoprotein. However, most research findings include significant limitations, such as inconsistent dosage and type of chromium, formulation of supplements, and study duration. Further well-designed and high-quality research is needed to fully understand the role of chromium dietary supplementation and the potential risks related to its mechanisms of action, type, and dose, in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Metabolic syndrome severity z-score in non-diabetic non-obese Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis c virus infection

BackgroundThe risks of heart disease, resistance of insulin, and diabetes mellitus type II are increased in individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, there is an increase in the vascular and neurological effects. This study aimed to assess the isolated independent impact of hepatitis C virus (HCV) on metabolic syndrome, excluding obesity and diabetes mellitus as common risks, this impact was assessed using the metabolic syndrome Severity Z-score (MetS Z-Score) which was initially designed to assess metabolic disease severity itself. Fifty-one HCV patients non-obese and non-diabetic who visited the Tropical Medicine Department from July 2023 to June 2024 were included in our prospective cross sectional study.ResultsAfter calculation of MetS Z-Score, strong correlations were observed between MetS Z-score and the following data: HDL, fasting insulin, fasting blood sugar, HOMA-IR and hypertension (P value < 0.05). Moreover, The MetS Z-Score was found to have higher values in hypertensive patients. Jaundice shows a near to significance correlation with the MetS Z-Score. Anemia, hypoalbuminemia and thrombocytopenia were observed in the included HCV patients. Low density lipoprotein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, cholesterol and triglycerides have shown higher levels than normal in the included HCV patients.ConclusionThe MetS Z-score can be used for determining the severity of metabolic abnormalities in HCV patients who are neither diabetic nor obese.

Abstract 4137713: Epsin-Mediated PCSK9-LDLR Interaction: A New Therapeutic Target for Atherosclerosis

Introduction: Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, causes about 17.9 million deaths annually. It is driven by high levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C). The liver's LDL receptor (LDLR) removes LDL-C from the bloodstream, but its degradation by PCSK9 exacerbates the condition. Epsin, an endocytic adaptor protein crucial for clathrin-mediated endocytosis, plays a significant role in atherosclerosis, particularly lipid metabolism. Hypothesis: We propose that hepatic epsins significantly contribute to atherosclerosis by facilitating the PCSK9-induced degradation of LDLR, thus impeding LDL-C clearance. Objectives: This study aims to investigate hepatic epsins' role in PCSK9-mediated LDLR degradation and its effects on LDL-C levels and atherosclerosis development. Using bioinformatics, we will analyze enriched pathways and networks to study epsins modulation, which will be validated through biochemical assays and in vivo experiments. Methods: Liver-specific double knockout (DKO) mice lacking epsin1 and epsin2 were created on an ApoE -/- background. Atherosclerosis was induced using a Western diet (WD), and blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels were monitored. We employed high-resolution single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze cellular transitions, intercellular interactions, and Gene Ontology pathway enrichment within hepatocyte-derived data. Results: RNA velocity reveals the transition from lipogenic Alb hi Hepatocytes to glucogenic Hnf4a hi Hepatocytes in Liver-DKO mice on an ApoE -/- background on a WD. Liver-DKO mice on an ApoE -/- background on a WD exhibited significantly reduced atherogenesis and lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared with wild-type on an ApoE -/- background on a WD. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed elevated pathways for LDL particle clearance and enhanced LDLR-cholesterol communication scores in Liver-DKO mice, suggesting improved LDL-C clearance. Nanoparticle-encapsulated siRNAs targeting liver epsins effectively inhibited atherosclerosis. Conclusion: Epsin depletion in the liver upregulated LDLR protein levels, and PCSK9-triggered LDLR degradation was abolished, preventing atheroma progression. Targeting liver epsins presents a novel therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis, supported by network analysis and predictive modeling for effective interventions.

Abstract 4137917: Eligibility and Preventable CVD Events in US Adults with Cardiovascular Disease and Overweight or Obesity: Projections from the SELECT Trial

Background: The Trial to Evaluate Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes (SELECT) showed cardiovascular disease (CVD) benefits of semaglutide therapy in patients with preexisting CVD and overweight or obesity. Purpose: To estimate the number of US adults with CVD and overweight or obesity that may be eligible for semaglutide based on SELECT eligibility criteria and the number of preventable CVD events from semaglutide treatment based on observed CVD event reductions in SELECT. Methods: We included US adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2020 who had eligibility criteria from SELECT. This included patients aged &gt; 45 years who had preexisting CVD and a BMI of &gt; 27kg/m 2 but no history of diabetes. Using NHANES sample weighting, we estimated the number of SELECT-eligible US adults and primary composite and secondary CVD endpoints that would occur based on SELECT treated and placebo published event rates, with the difference indicating the number of preventable events (and annualized based on mean 3.3-year follow-up). Results: Among 8783 (projected to 77.9 million [M]) adults with overweight or obesity, we estimated 493 (4.1 million) (5.61%) to fit SELECT eligibility criteria. Compared to SELECT trial participants, our sample had a higher proportion of Black participants and was older with higher levels of diastolic blood pressure, total, LDL and HDL-cholesterol, and lower BMI, HbA1c, eGFR and triglycerides. Prior myocardial infarction was less common, but stroke was more common in our sample. From SELECT semaglutide and placebo primary composite CVD event rates of 6.5% and 8.0%, respectively, we estimated 79949 and 98399 CVD events would occur annually, the difference being 18450 potentially preventable CVD events. Moreover, we similarly estimated 104,549 and 357,928 annual preventable cases of diabetes and pre-diabetes, respectively. The Figure shows the estimated number of primary and secondary CVD outcomes that could be prevented annually. Conclusion: Semaglutide may prevent many fatal and non-fatal CVD events, as well as incident cases of diabetes and pre-diabetes if provided to US adults meeting SELECT eligibility criteria. More efforts are needed to educate clinicians and patients on the benefits of semaglutide 2.4mg in those with preexisting CVD and overweight or obesity.