Low Omega-3 Research Articles

Grazed chicory, plantain or ryegrass–white clover alters milk yield and fatty acid composition of late-lactating dairy cows

The aim of the present research was to compare milk fatty acid composition of cows grazing perennial ryegrass–white clover pasture (RGWC), with that of cows grazing alternative forages of chicory or plantain. Fifty-four cows, balanced for milk solids, days in milk and bodyweight, were divided evenly into replicated groups of six cows/group. Cows grazing chicory or plantain had similar estimated dry-matter intake (17.7 kg DM/cow.day) and milk-solid (MS) yield (1.93 kg MS/cow.day), which were greater (P < 0.05) than for cows grazing RGWC (15.6 kg DM/cow.day and 1.65 kg MS/cow.day). Milk produced from cows grazing chicory or plantain contained greater proportions of omega-3 fatty acids (FA) than that from cows on RGWC (P < 0.01), despite lower omega-3 FA in herbage. RGWC increased the percentage of conjugated linoleic and vaccenic acids in milk compared with those of milk produced from herbs (P < 0.01). This reflects the greater percentage of α-linolenic acid in RGWC (P ≤ 0.02) than in forage herbs. The changes in FA profile from the herbage to the milk suggests less biohydrogenation in cows grazing the herbs. Forage herbs demonstrated the potential benefit to alter milk FA composition, while increasing milk production.

Changes in fatty acid and mineral composition of rapeseed (Brassica napus ssp. oleifera L.) oil with seed sizes

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of seed sizes on fatty acid composition and oil content, mineral composition and heavy metal contents of oil and seed samples in same cultivar of rapeseed. Seeds were divided into four size groups (D1: <1.4, D2: 1.4–1.7, D3: 1.7–2.0 and D4: >2.00 mm). Oil ratios were determined with a soxhalate, fatty acid composition was determined with a gas chromatography (GC) and mineral composition with an ICP/OES devices. Oil contents of the samples varied between 36.9–40.52%. A total of 11 fatty acid compositions were identified. The C18:1 n9c (oleic acid) was the major component and it was respectively followed by C18:3 n6c (linoleic acid), C18:3 n3 (linolenic acid) and C16:0 (palmitic acid). The C18:1 n9c contents varied between 53.95–60.98%, C18:2 n6c contents between 20.42–25.02%, C18:3 n3 contents between 8.74–9.56% and C16:0 contents between 4.24–6.00%. Macro-micro nutrients and heavy metal contents exhibited significant variations. With regard to seed mineral composition, D4 group generally had higher Ca, Mg, K and S contents and were richer in minerals than D1 group. However, Cd and Pb heavy metal contents were also higher in D4 group. It was concluded based on present findings that D2 group could be recommended for high oil yield and D4 group could be recommended for low saturated fatty acids (SFA) and high Omega3-fatty acid (FA) contents.

Low omega-3 index and polyunsaturated fatty acid status in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis

BackgroundSeveral studies have suggested that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are associated with cardiovascular risk, major depression, sleep problems, inflammation and other health-related issues. So far, however, erythrocyte PUFA status in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) has not been established. This study aimed to determine whether n-3 PUFA content and omega-3 index are associated with measures in CFS/ME patients. Patients and MethodsPUFA levels and omega-3 index were measured in 31 Spanish CFS/ME patients using the HS-Omega-3 Index method. Demographic and clinical characteristics and self-reported outcome measures were also recorded. ResultsA low mean omega-3 index (5.75%) was observed in 92.6% of the sample. Omega-3 index was inversely correlated with the AA/EPA ratio (p = 0.00002) and the BMI (p = 0.0106). In contrast, the AA/EPA ratio was positively associated with the BMI (p = 0.0038). No association for FIS-40 and PSQI measures was found (p > 0.05). ConclusionThe low omega-3 index found in our CFS/ME patients may indicate increased risks for cardiovascular health, which should be further investigated. A low omega-3 index also suggests a pro-inflammatory state in these patients. Attempts should be made to increase the omega-3 index in CFS/ME patients, based on intervention trials assessing a potential therapeutic value.

Low Level Laser Therapy and Omega-3 in the Management of Recurrent Aphthous Sto matitis

Introduction: In view of the importance and prevalence of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis(RAS) there is an urgent need for searching about an effective therapy that is less expensive, easyto use and readily available with no side effects. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT ) and Omega-3were considered as possible treatment options of RAS.Aim of the work: The aim of the current study was to compare the usefulness of LLLT with orwithout omega-3 versus omega-3 alone in treatment of RAS and evaluate the immune-modulatoryeffect of systemically administered omega-3.Materials and method: 45 patients were suffering from RAS were randomly assigned intoeither GӀ: (LLL T), GӀӀ: (omega-3) and GӀӀӀ: (omega-3 plus LLL T). The comparison was assessedclinically via calculating: The reduction in ulcer surface area by using Visual Basic Program, theeffectiveness indices (EI ) of pain improvement at day 1 and day five, average duration of ulcerepisodes, and the number of new ulcer outbreaks at base line and then monthly for the following 6months. Immunologically via: Measuring the amount of IL2, determination of CD4+CD25+ high Tregulatory cells in blood samples at base line (BL), 3 and 6 months.Results: GӀ showed significant reduction in ulcer surface area and significant decrease in painsensation, without significant change in all other parameters. GӀӀ showed no significant changein the degree of pain sensation in spite of reduction in ulcer surface area in addition to significantchange in all other parameters. GӀӀӀ showed significant improvement in all clinical parameterswhich is compatible with the changes occurred in the immunologic parameters. At BL nosignificant deference was observed in between the three groups. For the follow up measurements:The reduction in ulcer surface area and (EI ) of pain improvement showed significant differencecomparing GӀӀ with GӀ and GӀӀӀ in favor of the last mentioned two groups with no differencein between both of them, regarding the monthly clinical variables and immunologic parametersshowed significant difference comparing GӀ with GӀӀ and GӀӀӀ in favor of the GӀӀ and GӀӀӀ with nodifference in between both of them.Conclusions: Using LLLT with omega - 3 fatty acid in management of RAS gave the mostfavorable clinical and immunologic results. The used Visual Basic Program was effective incalculating the difference of ulcers surface areas and the digital data enabled fair statistical analysis.

Comparison of the nutritional content of the captive and wild diets of the critically endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) to improve its captive husbandry.

It is vital to provide appropriate nutrition to maintain healthy populations in conservation breeding programs. Knowledge of the wild diet of a species can be used to inform captive diet formulation. The nutritional content of the wild diet of the critically endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) is unknown, like that of most amphibians. In this study, we analyzed the nutritional content of food items that comprise 91% of the wild diet of L. fallax, by dry weight of food items, and all food items offered to captive L. fallax at ZSL London Zoo and Jersey Zoo. We subsequently compared the nutritional content of the wild diet and captive diet at ZSL London Zoo consumed by L. fallax. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to directly compare the nutritional content of the wild and captive diets of an anuran amphibian. The captive diet at ZSL London Zoo, without dusting of nutritional supplements, was higher in gross energy and crude fat and lower in ash, calcium and calcium:phosphorus ratio than the wild diet. Most of the food items in the captive diets had a high omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio and in the wild diet had a low omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio. We recommend a combination of modifications to the captive diets to better reflect the nutritional content of the wild diet. Nutritional analysis of captive and wild diets is recommended for other species in conservation breeding programs to improve captive husbandry and ultimately fitness.

Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements in Depressed Heart Failure Patients: Results of the OCEAN Trial

ObjectivesThe goal of this study was to test the effects of long-chain omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on omega-3 levels, depressive symptoms, and other psychosocial factors, as well as other chronic heart failure (CHF)-related functional measures. BackgroundPatients with CHF and depression had low blood omega-3 concentrations that were associated with an elevated risk of mortality. MethodsThis study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial using a 400/200 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) fish oil at 2 g and an almost pure EPA at 2 g, compared with a matched placebo, daily for 12 weeks for patients with CHF and major depressive disorder. Statistical analyses included the intention-to-treat population and “completers” (defined as participants consuming ≥70% of the capsules and completing the final endpoint evaluation between 10 and 14 weeks). ResultsA total of 108 patients with CHF and major depressive disorder and a score ≥18 on the Hamilton Depression Scale who were randomized at 1:1:1 to the 3 interventions at 3 enrolling centers from June 12, 2014, to May 19, 2016; 80 (74.1%) qualified as completers. Intention-to-treat analyses revealed that the levels of all omega-3 variables were significantly elevated in the omega-3 groups, whereas the placebo group showed little change; there were no between-group differences with overall depression measurements. Per-protocol exploratory analyses showed that scores on the social functioning measurement of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey improved notably in the 400/200 EPA/DHA (p = 0.040) and EPA (p = 0.10) groups compared with the placebo group. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that increased omega-3 indices were associated with improved cognitive depressive symptoms. ConclusionsOmega-3 supplementation resulted in significant increases in omega-3 levels in red blood cell counts, corresponding to a particular compound of omega-3. Changes in cognitive depressive symptoms and social function were in favor of the omega-3 supplementation. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm the benefits of omega-3 supplementation on modifying psychosocial factors for patients with CHF. (Omega-3 Supplementation for Co-Morbid Depression and Heart Failure Treatment [OCEAN]; NCT02057406)

Abstract 526: Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4 is Required for an Adaptive Response to Pathologic Pressure Overload-induced Heart Failure in Mice

Background: Our previous results indicate that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) prevents interstitial fibrosis and pathologic remodeling in the transverse aortic constriction (TAC) model of pressure overload induced heart failure in mice. However, EPA supplementation did not lead to incorporation into cardiac myocytes or fibroblasts in vivo , a traditional mechanism of action. Interestingly, we found that free fatty acid receptor 4 (Ffar4), a G-protein coupled receptor for long-chain fatty acids, was expressed in cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts. In primary cultures of cardiac fibroblasts, Ffar4 was sufficient and required to prevent TGFβ1-induced fibrosis, suggesting Ffar4 might mediate EPA cardioprotection. Methods: To understand the function of Ffar4 in the heart in vivo , we examined the response to TAC in male and female Ffar4 knockout mice (Ffar4KO) under basal conditions without EPA supplementation. Results: In male Ffar4KO mice, TAC induced a worsened dilated cardiomyopathy relative to wild-type (WT) mice. Specifically, in male Ffar4KO mice, TAC produced more hypertrophy (Heart weight: WT: 175±8 mg, n=14; Ffar4KO: 223±14 mg, n=10; P &lt;0.05), and generated more severe systolic and diastolic dysfunction (Ejection Fraction: WT: 42±3%, n=14; Ffar4KO: 28±4%, n=10; P &lt;0.05) (E/A ratio: WT: 2.0±0.2, n=12; Ffar4KO: 3.7±0.5, n=9; P &lt;0.05). However, TAC induced similar levels of interstitial fibrosis in male Ffar4 KO and WT mice (WT: 9.6±1.8%, n=14; Ffar4KO: 7.4±1.1%, n=10; ns ). While TAC worsened outcomes in male Ffar4KO mice, TAC in Ffar4 KO female mice produced no significant differences in the degree of hypertrophy or contractile dysfunction relative to WT mice. Discussion: Our results indicate that Ffar4 is required for an adaptive response to pathologic pressure overload in male mice. The lack of an exaggerated fibrotic response was surprising given our previous results indicating that in cardiac fibroblasts, Ffar4 prevents TGFβ1-induced fibrosis. This might indicate that Ffar4 signaling is minimal in fibroblasts under conditions of low omega-3 fatty acid levels. This result also suggests that the worsened contractile dysfunction in Ffar4KO mice is unrelated to fibrosis, but involves a direct effect in cardiac myocytes.

Feeding potentially health promoting nutrients to finishing bulls changes meat composition and allow for product health claims

Supplementation of feed for bulls with selenium (+50%), vitamin D3 (+300%), vitamin E (+825%), vitamin K3 (+325%) and omega-3 fatty acids (+120%) affected beef nutrient composition. Twelve bulls (½ year old) were randomly allocated to two dietary treatments; control (Con) or supplemented (Sup), and fed 170 days pre-slaughter at an amount of 1% of body weight. Daily gain and feed efficiency were equal in the two groups. Homogenate meat from left forequarter in the Sup group contained more selenium (+26%), vitamin MK4 (+123%), D (+197%), E (+318%), and had lower omega-6/omega-3 ratio (−24%) compared to Con meat. Sup meat fulfilled the requirements to be labelled by health claims and nutrient claims as: “A food item containing a significant amount of selenium, vitamin K and vitamin D". We suggest supplementation of cattle rations during the finishing period as a strategy to increase meat content of specific nutrients important to human health.

Metabolites and Biological Activities of Thymus zygis, Thymus pulegioides, and Thymus fragrantissimus Grown under Organic Cultivation

Thymus plants are marketed for diverse usages because of their pleasant odor, as well as high nutritional value and wealth of health-promoting phytochemicals. In this study, Thymus zygis, Thymus pulegioides, and Thymus fragrantissimus grown under organic cultivation regime were characterized regarding nutrients and phenolic compounds. In addition, the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of these species were screened. The plants were particularly notable for their high K/Na ratio, polyunsaturated fatty acids content and low omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids ratios, which are valuable features of a healthy diet. Caffeic acid and/or its derivatives, mainly rosmarinic acid and caffeoyl rosmarinic acid, represented the majority of the phenolic constituents of these plants, although they were less representative in T. pulegioides, which in turn was the richest in flavones. The latter species also exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity (DPPH● EC50 of 9.50 ± 1.98 μg/mL and reducing power EC50 of 30.73 ± 1.48 μg/mL), while T. zygis was the most active towards Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Overall, the results suggest that the three thyme plants grown in organic farming are endowed with valuable metabolites that give them high commercial value for applications in different industries.

Low omega-3 index values and monounsaturated fatty acid levels in early pregnancy: an analysis of maternal erythrocytes fatty acids

BackgroundIt is unanimously recognized that the maternal nutritional status at the pregnancy onset influence both short-term and long-term health of the mother and offspring. Among several nutrients, LCPUFA, particularly from the omega-3 family, are of utmost importance. This study was carried out to determine fatty acids profile of maternal erythrocyte membranes in early pregnancy and to identify potential determinants impacting on this status.MethodsA cohort of 122 healthy women with a singleton pregnancy was included. Fatty acids were analyzed using gas chromatography. Because of the lack of cutoff values, reference ranges were used to determine fatty acids categories.ResultsOf concern, our data revealed low monounsaturated and long-chain omega-3 fatty acid status in most participants. More than 75% of Belgian pregnant women exhibited Pal, AO and EPA levels as well as IOM3 values below the laboratory reference ranges. Higher DHA concentrations and IOM3 values were found among foreign-nationality participants, non-smokers and physically active women. With regard to dietary factors, omega-3 supplements and diet seem to be complementary since DHA from supplements (but not from diet) and EPA from diet (but not from supplements) were found to be associated with higher concentrations of DHA and EPA, respectively.ConclusionsOur study presents evidence demonstrating that the fatty acid status of most early pregnant women is far from being optimal based on the admitted general reference values. Clinicians should be advice to carefully evaluate and improve this status to guarantee the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby.

Plasma Lipid Metabolism is altered in Acute Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Background and ObjectivesLipids are the source of signaling and inflammatory molecules that may contribute to trauma pathology. Accordingly, we examined levels of lipid species and a lipolytic enzyme activity in a one‐month longitudinal study of acute mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).MethodsWe recruited mTBI patients (n=21) and non‐head trauma controls (CT, n=9), aged 18–50 years from the emergency department of the Huntington Memorial Hospital (Pasadena, CA). Symptom progression was observed within days of injury (W1), and four weeks thereafter (W4). Plasma lipids collected at W1 and W4 were extracted and unesterified (UFA) and esterified fatty acids (EFA) quantified using negative ion/chemical ionization gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Plasma glycerophospholipids (GP) and sphingolipids (SP) were analyzed using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity was determined using a fluorescence‐based activity assay.ResultsmTBI participants' plasma at W1 had higher levels of 24 UFA species that included seven saturated fatty acids (SAFA), seven monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), four omega‐3, and six omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The sum of all SAFAs, MUFAs, omega‐3 PUFAs, omega‐6 PUFAs, and PUFAs were higher in mTBI plasma at W1. For EFA at W1, two omega‐6 (homo‐g‐C20:3n‐6, C22:4n‐6), one omega‐3 (C20:5n‐3), the sum of omega‐3 PUFAs, and the omega‐3 to omega‐6 ratios (omega‐3 index) were lower in mTBI than in CT. At W4, esterified C19:0 and C22:3n‐3 levels were lower while C24:1 was higher in mTBI compared with CT. The UFA to EFA ratio that estimates endogenous lipolysis of fatty acids was higher in mTBI than CT for three SAFAs, two MUFAs, two omega‐6, two omega‐3, and the ratio of the sum of UFAs to the sum EFAs. Calcium‐dependent PLA2 activity was higher in mTBI plasma at W1 but not at W4. mTBI PLA2 activity at W1 positively correlated with most UFA species except C18:2n‐6 and C18:3n‐6 but correlated only with two UFA (C20:1, C22:1) in CT. PLA2 activity negatively correlated with seven EFA species.ConclusionsOur data showing higher UFA, UFA to EFA ratios, and correlation of UFA with PLA2 indicate excessive lipolysis in early mTBI. A lower omega‐3 index suggests the excessive oxidative breakdown of omega‐3 in mTBI. We propose that early intervention using strategies that reduce lipolysis may attenuate tissue damage linked to mTBI. Additionally, measurements of fatty acid fluctuations may be useful in discovering new therapies and monitoring resolution of mTBI.Support or Funding InformationFinancial support provided by the D.O.D. grant W81XWH‐13‐1‐0005. Thao Tran, David Strickland, Betty Chung, Darlene Royal, and David Buennagel assisted with data collection and patient recruitment.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Individual fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes are associated with several features of the metabolic syndrome in obese children.

Obesity leads to the clustering of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) also in children and is often accompanied by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Quality of dietary fat, beyond the quantity, can influence CV risk profile and, in particular, omega-3 fatty acids (FA) have been proposed as beneficial in this setting. The aim of the study was to evaluate the associations of individual CV risk factors, characterizing the MetS, with erythrocyte membrane FA, markers of average intake, in a group of 70 overweight/obese children. We conducted an observational study. Erythrocyte membrane FA were measured by gas chromatography. Spearman correlation coefficients (rS) were calculated to evaluate associations between FA and features of the MetS. Mean content of Omega-3 FA was low (Omega-3 Index = 4.7 ± 0.8%). Not omega-3 FA but some omega-6 FA, especially arachidonic acid (AA), were inversely associated with several features of the MetS: AA resulted inversely correlated with waist circumference (rS = - 0.352), triglycerides (rS = - 0.379), fasting insulin (rS = - 0.337) and 24-h SBP (rS = - 0.313). Total amount of saturated FA (SFA) and specifically palmitic acid, correlated positively with waist circumference (rS = 0.354), triglycerides (rS = 0.400) and fasting insulin (rS = 0.287). Fatty Liver Index (FLI), a predictive score of steatosis based on GGT, triglycerides and anthropometric indexes, was positively correlated to palmitic acid (rS = 0.515) and inversely to AA (rS = - 0.472). Our data suggest that omega-6 FA, and especially AA, could be protective toward CV risk factors featuring the MetS and also to indexes of hepatic steatosis in obese children, whereas SFA seems to exert opposite effects.

Abstract P220: Elevated De Novo Lipogenesis Fatty Acids and Lower Omega-6 Fatty Acids Are Associated With Markers of Insulin Resistance and Respond to Changes in Dietary Carbohydrate Intake in Overweight Individuals on Weight Loss Diets

Background: High blood levels of certain fatty acids (FAs) in the de novo lipogenesis pathway (DNL; i.e., 16:0, cis-16:1n7) and low levels of omega-6 FAs (n-6 FA; i.e., 18:2n6) have been related to increased risk for type 2 diabetes. We hypothesized that individuals with insulin resistance (IR) would have higher DNL and lower n-6 FA plasma levels than insulin sensitive (IS) individuals, and that DNL FA levels would decrease on a low-carbohydrate (LC) diet and not change on a low-fat (LF) diet. Methods: Plasma FAs were measured as a % of total FA in subjects (n=61) with varying degrees of obesity and IR before and after 6 months of LF or LC weight loss diets. IR metrics were calculated pre- and post from oral glucose tolerance tests and fasting blood samples. FA medians (Interquartile Range), Spearman correlations (R) and Mann-Whitney test results are presented. Results: All differences shown are significant at P&lt;0.05 unless reported as not significant (NS). Compared to the IS group, IR individuals had higher 16:0 (IR: 22.9% [22.2, 24.3] vs IS: 21.7% [20.2, 22.5]) and 16:1n7 (IR: 1.8% [1.4, 2.2] vs IS: 1.3% [1.1, 1.6]), and lower 18:2n6 (IR: 30.8% [27.8, 31.6] vs IS: 32.5% [30.0, 34.6]) levels at baseline. 16:0 and 16:1n7 were directly related to BMI (0.40, 0.28), fasting insulin (0.40, 0.33), HOMA-IR (0.40, 0.43), TG:HDL (0.38, NS) and indirectly to Matsuda Index (-0.35, -0.34). 18:2n6 was directly related to the Matsuda Index (0.35) and indirectly to HOMA-IR (-0.37) and TG:HDL (-0.45). Diet x IR status analyses were not significant, thus FA changes on LC and LF diets were compared. 16:1n7 decreased on the LC diet and did not change on the LF diet (LC: -0.5% [-0.7, -0.3] vs LF: -0.1% [-0.3, 0.2]). 18:2n6 levels increased on the LC diet and decreased on the LF diet (LC: 0.9% [-0.3, 2.7] vs LF: -0.5% [-2.4, 0.6]). Changes in dietary carbohydrate (% of calories) correlated with changes in 16:1n7 directly (0.38) and 18:2n6 indirectly (-0.37). Changes in 16:1n7 were directly related to changes in weight (0.55) and TG:HDL (0.65), and changes in 18:2n6 were indirectly related to TG:HDL changes (-0.51). Conclusions: Elevated plasma DNL FA and lower 18:2n6 were evident in IR vs. IS individuals, and individual markers of IR were related to FA levels accordingly. DNL and 18:2n-6 responded to changes in carbohydrate intake. FA patterns may be a useful tool to identify IR individuals and track carbohydrate consumption.

Cardiometabolic risks and omega-3 index in recent-onset bipolar I disorder.

The aims of the present study were to characterize cardiometabolic risk factors in a cohort of bipolar disorder patients with limited exposure to psychotropic medications, and to evaluate their associations with mood symptoms and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) blood levels. Cardiometabolic risk assessments were compared in individuals with bipolar I disorder experiencing a first manic or mixed episode or an early depressive episode (n=117) and healthy subjects (n=56). Patients were medication free at assessment and had no or limited exposure to mood-stabilizer or antipsychotic medications prior to the current admission. Associations among cardiometabolic parameters and Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale (CGI-S), manic (Young Mania Rating Scale [YMRS]), and depressive (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [HDRS]) symptom ratings were evaluated within the bipolar group. Following adjustment for demographic variables (i.e., age, gender, and parental education), significantly higher fasting triglyceride levels were observed in the bipolar group compared to the healthy group (121.7mg/dL vs 87.0mg/dL; P<.01). There were no clear trends for other metabolic indicators, including blood pressure, body mass index, and fasting glucose. Nineteen percent of the bipolar group and 6% of the healthy group met the criteria for metabolic syndrome (P=.23). The omega-3 index was lower in the bipolar group (3.4% vs 3.9%; P<.01). Within the bipolar group, no associations were found between the cardiometabolic parameters and CGI-S, YMRS, and HDRS symptom ratings. Recent-onset medication-free bipolar disorder is associated with higher triglyceride levels. These findings are suggestive of early metabolic dysregulation prior to long-term psychotropic medication exposure. Lower omega-3 PUFA levels in individuals with bipolar I disorder represent a potential therapeutic target for additional investigation.

Low omega-6/omega-3 ratio in a maternal protein-deficient diet promotes histone-3 changes in progeny neural cells and favors leukemia inhibitory factor genetranscription

Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids modulate epigenetic changes critical to genesis and differentiation of neural cells. Conversely, maternal protein-malnutrition can negatively modify these changes. This study investigated whether a low n-6/n-3 ratio in a maternal diet could favor histone-3 (H3) modifications, gene transcription and differentiation in the offspring neural cells even under protein-deficiency. Female rats fed a control (Ct), or 3 types of multideficient diets differing in protein levels or linoleic/alpha-linolenic fatty acid ratios (RBD, RBD-C, RBD-SO) from 30 days prior to mating and during pregnancy. Cerebral cortex tissue and cortical cultures of progeny embryonic neurons and postnatal astrocytes were analyzed. H3K9 acetylation and H3K27 or H3K4 di-methylation levels were assessed by flow cytometry and/or immunocytochemistry. In astrocyte cultures and cortical tissue, the GFAP protein levels were assessed. Glial derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) gene expression were evaluated in the cortical tissue. GFAP levels were similar in astrocytes of Ct, RBD and RBD-C, but 65% lower in RBD-SO group. Higher levels of H3K9Ac were found in the neurons and H3K4Me2 in the astrocytes of the RBD group. No intergroup difference in the cortical GDNF mRNA expression or the H3K27Me2 levels in astrocytes was detected. LIF mRNA levels were higher in the RDB (P=.002) or RBD-C (P=.004) groups than in the control. The findings indicate the importance of dietary n-3 availability for the brain, even under a protein-deficient condition, inducing Histone modifications and increasing LIF gene transcription, involved in neural cell differentiation and reactivity.

Potential of Extracted Locusta Migratoria Protein Fractions as Value-Added Ingredients.

Although locusts can be sustainably produced and are nutrient rich, the thought of eating them can be hard to swallow for many consumers. This paper aims to investigate the nutritional composition of Locusta migratoria, including the properties of extracted locust protein, contributing to limited literature and product development opportunities for industry. Locusts sourced from Dunedin, New Zealand, contained a high amount of protein (50.79% dry weight) and fat (34.93%), which contained high amounts of omega-3 (15.64%), creating a desirably low omega-3/omega-6 ratio of 0.57. Three protein fractions including; insoluble locust fraction, soluble locust fraction, and a supernatant fraction were recovered following alkali isoelectric precipitation methodology. Initially, proteins were solubilised at pH 10 then precipitated out at the isoelectric point (pH 4). All fractions had significantly higher protein contents compared with the whole locust. The insoluble protein fraction represented 37.76% of the dry weight of protein recovered and was much lighter in colour and greener compared to other fractions. It also had the highest water and oil holding capacity of 5.17 mL/g and 7.31 mL/g, possibly due to larger particle size. The high supernatant yield (56.60%) and low soluble protein yield (9.83%) was unexpected and could be a result of experimental pH conditions chosen.

Effects of Intake of Processed Quinoa Seeds on Lipid Profile in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Background: Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) is a gluten-free pseudocereal with high biological value protein, low glycemic carbohydrates, phytosterols and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It originated in the Andean region and has been consumed for thousands of years. Our objective was to assess blood cholesterol levels in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients in an outpatient clinic after the intake of processed quinoa seeds. Methods: This is a prospective study with twenty-seven patients, aged between 48 and 70 years (64.0 ± 8.4 yo), who were treated during 120 to 200 days. Blood samples were collected before and after the intake of quinoa seeds to determine the lipid profile of the group. Results: The results showed beneficial effects of the intake of quinoa with a significant reduction in total cholesterol (P=0.0008), triglycerides (P=0.001) and LDLc (P=0.008). Conclusions: The incorporation of quinoa in the eating routine can be considered beneficial in the prevention and control of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, considered the major causes of death worldwide.

Reduced blood-brain barrier expression of fatty acid-binding protein 5 is associated with increased vulnerability of APP/PS1 mice to cognitive deficits from low omega-3 fatty acid diets.

Lower levels of the cognitively beneficial docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are often observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains. Brain DHA levels are regulated by the blood-brain barrier (BBB) transport of plasma-derived DHA, a process facilitated by fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5). This study reports a 42.1±12.6% decrease in the BBB transport of 14 C-DHA in 8-month-old AD transgenic mice (APPswe,PSEN1∆E9) relative to wild-type mice, associated with a 34.5±6.7% reduction in FABP5 expression in isolated brain capillaries of AD mice. Furthermore, short-term spatial and recognition memory deficits were observed in AD mice on a 6-month n-3 fatty acid-depleted diet, but not in AD mice on control diet. This intervention led to a dramatic reduction (41.5±11.9%) of brain DHA levels in AD mice. This study demonstrates FABP5 deficiency and impaired DHA transport at the BBB are associated with increased vulnerability to cognitive deficits in mice fed an n-3 fatty acid-depleted diet, in line with our previous studies demonstrating a crucial role of FABP5 in BBB transport of DHA and cognitive function.

Mapping QTL for Omega-3 Content in Hybrid Saline Tilapia.

Tilapia is one of most important foodfish species. The low omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio in freshwater tilapia meat is disadvantageous for human health. Increasing omega-3 content is an important task in breeding to increase the nutritional value of tilapia. However, conventional breeding to increase omega-3 content is difficult and slow. To accelerate the increase of omega-3 through marker-assisted selection (MAS), we conducted QTL mapping for fatty acid contents and profiles in a F2 family of saline tilapia generated by crossing red tilapia and Mozambique tilapia. The total omega-3 content in F2 hybrid tilapia was 2.5±1.0mg/g, higher than that (2.00mg/g) in freshwater tilapia. Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) technology was used to discover and genotype SNP markers, and microsatellites were also genotyped. We constructed a linkage map with 784 markers (151 microsatellites and 633 SNPs). The linkage map was 2076.7 cM long and consisted of 22 linkage groups. Significant and suggestive QTL for total lipid content were mapped on six linkage groups (LG3, -4, -6, -8, -13, and -15) and explained 5.8-8.3% of the phenotypic variance. QTL for omega-3 fatty acids were located on four LGs (LG11, -18, -19, and -20) and explained 5.0 to 7.5% of the phenotypic variance. Our data suggest that the total lipid and omega-3 fatty acid content were determined by multiple genes in tilapia. The markers flanking the QTL for omega-3 fatty acids can be used in MAS to accelerate the genetic improvements of these traits in salt-tolerant tilapia.

Dietary Fatty Acid Modification for the Treatment of Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease: A Prospective Pilot Trial

The high levels of eicosanoid production and the clinical efficacy of leukotriene-modifying pharmacotherapies for patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) suggest that other interventions targeting arachidonic acid dysregulation may also improve disease control. To assess the utility of a high omega-3/low omega-6 diet for the treatment of AERD. Prospective, nonblinded dietary intervention in 10 adult patients with AERD at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA. The primary objective was for subjects to reduce dietary omega-6 fatty acid consumption to less than 4 g/d and increase omega-3 intake to more than 3 g/d. The primary outcome was change in urinary leukotriene E4, with changes in other eicosanoids, platelet activation, lung function, and patient-reported questionnaires also assessed. Of the 10 subjects who screened for the study, all 10 completed the dietary intervention. Urinary leukotriene E4 decreased by 0.17 ng/mg (95% CI,-0.29 to-0.04; P= .02) and tetranor prostaglandin D-M decreased by 0.66 ng/mg creatinine (95% CI,-1.21 to-0.11; P= .02). There was a 15.1-point reduction in the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test score (95% CI,-24.3 to-6.0; P= .01), a 0.27-point reduction in the 7-item Asthma Control Questionnaire score (95% CI,-0.52 to-0.03; P= .03), and no change in FEV1 % predicted (P=.92) or forced vital capacity % predicted (P=.74). All patients lost some weight over the 2-week intervention period, and there were no diet-associated adverse events. A high omega-3/low omega-6 diet may be an appropriate adjunct treatment option for patients with AERD.