Measured Serum Total Cholesterol Research Articles

(134) Early Impact of Androgen Deprivation Therapy on Endothelial Function and Metabolic Parameters in Prostate Cancer Patients: A Prospective Study

Abstract Introduction Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is considered one of the mainstays in the treatment of prostate cancer. ADT slows cancer progression, alleviates cancer-related symptoms, and is associated with survival gains. Despite these proven benefits, this treatment is related to several side effects, such as increased cardiovascular risk, changes in body composition and various metabolic changes. Although the well-established association between circulating testosterone level and endothelial integrity, the direct effects of ADT on endothelial function remain controversial. Objective This study aimed to investigate the impact of ADT on endothelial function, through the analysis of vascular parameters of the brachial artery and measurement of serum inflammatory markers. It was also our aim to evaluate the early impact of ADT on body composition and metabolic parameters. Methods We prospectively evaluated men with moderate to high-risk prostate cancer treated with ADT from January to December 2022 at our institution. Smokers and those who quit smoking less than five years ago, decompensated diabetics (glycated hemoglobin > 9%) and those who had already had a cardiovascular event were excluded. High-resolution B-mode ultrasound was used to assess vascular diameter and endothelium-dependent flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) of the brachial artery. Our metabolic and inflammatory profile included measurement of serum total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, basal insulin, C-reactive protein and assessment of body fat distribution through bioelectrical impedance. Subjects were evaluated at baseline and 3 months after starting ADT with goserelin acetate 10.80 mg. Results A total of 32 men were included. The mean age was 69 years and the prevalence of diabetes was 31.25%. FMD demonstrated a worsening trend after ADT, which did not reach statistical significance after 3 months (mean 3.39 ± 6.83 vs 1.16 ± 7.65; p = 0.14) (figure 1). Baseline brachial artery diameter also showed a tendency to worsen with ADT compared to baseline (0.44 ± 0.06 vs 0.42 ± 0.06; p = 0.06). With regard to the metabolic profile, ADT significantly increased insulin resistance: fasting glucose (mean 104.10 ± 18.96 vs 110.60 ± 25.29; p = 0.01), fasting insulin levels (mean 13.05 ± 8.76 vs 16.82 ± 11.36; p = 0.003), glycated hemoglobin (mean 5.89% ± 0.46 vs 6.15% ± 0.67; p = 0.008) and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (mean 3.47 ± 2.55 vs 5.05 ± 4.50; p = 0.005) increased significantly after 3 months. Triglycerides concentrations (mean 142.30 ± 69.66 vs 165.50 ± 93.04; p = 0.03) were higher after 3 months of ADT. Abdominal circumference (mean 98.66 ± 10.16 vs 99.76 ± 9.39; p = 0.02) and body mass index (mean 27.46 ± 4.06 vs 27.76 ± 3.89; p = 0.02) also increased after ADT. Conclusions Although not statistically significant, the present study demonstrated a trend towards a decrease in brachial artery FMD. We also observed an important and surprisingly early worsening of the metabolic profile with ADT, especially increased insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, which represent well-established risk factors for cardiovascular events. Disclosure No.

A negative association between total cholesterol and bone mineral density in US adult women.

BackgroundThe association between serum total cholesterol (TC) and bone mineral density (BMD) is still controversial. We aimed to evaluate the association of serum TC with BMD in general US adult women.MethodsA cross-sectional study consisting of 7,092 (age range 20–85) participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database was conducted. Weighted multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate association between serum TC and lumbar spine BMD. In addition, subgroup and interaction analysis were used in this study.ResultsThe serum TC was negatively correlated with lumbar spine BMD after adjusting for confounders. Subgroup analysis found that the strongest negative association mainly exists in women aged over 45 years with body mass index (BMI) < 24.9 kg/m2, and this association is not significant in other groups.ConclusionsThis study found that serum TC exhibit an inverse association with lumbar spine BMD in Us women aged over 45 years. The measurement of serum TC may provide information for predicting poor bone health outcomes in these women.

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF LIPID PROFILE IN CHRONIC ALCOHOLICS AND NON ALCOHOLICS IN TERTIARY HOSPITAL

BACKGROUND: Alcoholism is a signicant threat to public health in developed and developing countries. Over the last 30-40 years, alcohol consumption has increased in quantity and frequency. Alcohol use predisposes subjects to changes in lipid prole associated with coronary risk. AIM: 1] To study lipid prole in chronic alcoholics by measuring serum total cholesterol triglycerides, HDL, LDLand VLDL. 2]To compare lipid prole changes in chronic alcoholics and non-alcoholics MATERIALS AND METHODS: A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted with patients attending the General Medicine department in Santhiram medical college and general hospital, of which 30 alcoholic and 30 non-alcoholic were taken into the present study. RESULTS: There was a signicant rise in TC, TGL, HDL, LDL and VLDL of chronic alcoholics compared with non-alcoholics with p-value 0.001, &lt;0.001, 0.004, 0.290, &lt;0.001, respectively. Lipid prole was compared among moderate and heavy drinkers and found increased levels of TC, TGL, LDL&amp; VLDL with p-value &lt;0.001, 0.001, 0.002 &amp; 0.001 respectively in heavy drinkers. There is a decrease in HDLcholesterol among heavy drinkers compared with moderate drinkers, p-value 0.011, which is signicant. But remains elevated compared to non-alcoholics. CONCLUSION: This study shows that alcohol intake increases lipid parameters. Moderate alcohol intake increases HDL cholesterol, whereas heavy alcohol consumption increases TC, TGL, LDL&amp; VLDLand decreases HDL.

The association between plant-based diet indices and metabolic syndrome in Iranian older adults.

We investigated the association between plant-based diets indices - an overall plant-based diet index; a healthful plant-based diet index; and an unhealthful plant-based diet index - and metabolic syndrome among Iranian older adults. We aimed to examine the relationship between plant-based diet indices and metabolic syndrome. This cross-sectional study included 178 older adults (51 men and 127 women), with a mean age of 67.04 (60-83) who were referred to health centers in Tehran, Iran. Blood and urine samples were collected to measure serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. We created an overall plant-based diet index, healthful plant-based diet index, and unhealthful plant-based diet index from semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire data. Anthropometric measures were done. Our crude model results showed that triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and waist circumference did not significantly differ between tertiles of plant-based diet index and healthful plant-based diet index; also triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and waist circumference did not significantly differ between tertiles of unhealthful plant-based diet index, but high-density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly differed between tertiles of unhealthful plant-based diet index. After adjusting for confounders the results remained non-significant for plant-based diet index but high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significant for healthful and unhealthful plant-based diet indices. There was also no significant association between plant-based diet index (OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.53-2.33), healthful plant-based diet index (OR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.39-1.68), and unhealthful plant-based diet index (OR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.38-1.72) with metabolic syndrome, even after adjustment for confounders. Our findings showed that plant-based diets are not significantly associated with risk of metabolic syndrome in older adults. To confirm the veracity of these findings, more studies should be conducted.

Evaluation of Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) role in the protection and treatment of the parotid gland of Triton WR-1339 induced hyperlipidemia in adult male albino rats

Background: Hyperlipidemia is a common problem. It is a well-known aggravating factor in the pathogenesis of many diseases so that, this study was planned to study the structural changes of parotid gland in Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemia rat model and to investigate the (protecting and treating) effect of Thymus vulgaris extract (Thyme) as a natural product. Materials and methods: Fifty adult male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups. Group I (Control G), Group II (Thyme G): rats received Thyme (500 mg/kg body weight) for ten days, Group III (Hyperlipidemia G): rats received a single intraperitoneal dose of 1.0 ml Triton WR1339. Group IV (Protected G): rats received Thyme for ten days and the induction of hyperlipidemia occurred on the seventh day of the experiment. Group V (Treated G): rats received Thyme 24 hours after induction and throughout the experiment. Three days after induction of hyperlipidemia, blood samples were collected to measure serum total cholesterol & triglycerides. The parotid gland was processed for histological, histochemical and immmunohistochemical studies. Morphometrical and statistical analysis were done. Results: The hyperlipidemia rat model induced by Triton WR1339 developed acute inflammation of parotid gland leading to obvious histological and histochemical findings and significant increase in the immunohistochemical markers of inflammation and fibrosis. These findings were ameliorated by thyme as a protecting agent and to a significant lesser extent as a treatment. Concolusion: Thyme can be used as a protective agent against the parotid gland lesions caused by hyperlipidemia through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties.

Effect of Bortezomib on Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides and Histopathology Abdominal Aorta in Rats of Atherosclerosis Model

The effects of using proteasome inhibitors on atherosclerosis could be beneficial or detrimental. This study aimed to analyze the effects of proteasome inhibitors in the progression stage. Experimental animals (18 rats) were divided into three groups, namely control (C) as a group of rats given standard feed, P1 as atherosclerosis-induced rat group, and P2 as atherosclerosis-induced rat group and given proteasome inhibitors. Proteasome inhibitor administered was bortezomib at a dose of 50µg/kgBW/day intraperitoneally on day 1 and 3. After four days of treatment, the termination and measurement of serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and abdominal aorta histopathology with hematoxylin-eosin staining were carried out. Serum total cholesterol levels were measured using the CHOD-PAP (Cholesterol Oxidase-Peroxidase Aminoantypirin) method, whereas serum triglyceride levels were measured using the GPO-PAP (glycerol phosphatase oxidase−phenol4-amino antipyrene peroxidase) method. Histopathological assessment was carried out with a scoring system in 9 fields of view with a 400x magnification, which was then averaged. The ANOVA test showed significant differences in serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and abdominal aortic histopathology between atherosclerosis and control groups, but there were no significant differences in the administration of bortezomib in atherosclerosis except in serum triglyceride levels. It can be concluded that the administration of 50µg/kg bortezomib for four days in the rats model of the progression stage of atherosclerosis can decrease serum triglyceride levels, although it can not inhibit the formation of atherosclerotic lesions and has no effect on serum total cholesterol.Â

Association of UCP1, UCP2 and UCP3 gene polymorphisms with cardiovascular disease risk factors in European adolescents: the HELENA study.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible for 31% of all deaths worldwide. Genetic predisposition to CVDs in adolescents remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the association of UCP1, UCP2 and UCP3 gene polymorphisms with CVD risk factors in European adolescents. A cross-sectional study that involves 1.057 European adolescents (12-18 years old) from the HELENA study. A total of 18 polymorphisms of UCP1, UCP2 and UCP3 genes were genotyped. We measured serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein,low-density lipoprotein, ApoA1, ApoB, leptin, triglycerides, glucose, insulin and blood pressure, and calculated HOMA (homeostatic model assessment), Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI) and a CVD risk score. The G allele of UCP2 rs2735572 and T allele of UCP2 rs17132534 were associated with higher diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.001; false discovery rate [FDR] = 0.009 and P = 8e-04; FDR = 0.009, respectively). We observed that the AATAG haplotype of UCP1 was associated with higher serum ApoB/ApoA1 (P = 0.008; FDR = 0.031) and ApoB levels (P = 0.008; FDR = 0.031). Moreover, the ACC haplotype of UCP3 was associated with a higher CVD risk score (P = 0.0036; FDR = 0.01). Two UCP2 polymorphisms and haplotypes of UCP1 and UCP3 were associated with CVD risk factors. These findings suggest that UCPs may have a role in the development of CVD already in adolescents.

Evaluation of the effect of dapagliflozin on atherosclerosis progression by interfering with inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways in rabbits

Background: Atherosclerosis is a very common disease in which fat deposition in the inner layers of arteries leading to plaques formation. Dapagliflozin is one of a new class of drugs known as the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, responsible for lowering of the blood glucose level, and enhancing urinary glucose excretion. Dapagliflozin may lower blood glucose levels and at the same time prevent cardiovascular diseases. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of dapagliflozin on atherosclerosis through interfering with inflammatory and oxidative pathways. Materials and Methods: Eighteen local domestic male rabbits were used in this study. The rabbits were randomly divided into three groups: Group I rabbits fed normal chow diet for 12 weeks; Group II rabbits fed with 0.5% cholesterol-enriched diet; and Group III rabbits fed with 0.5% cholesterol-enriched diet together with dapagliflozin (1 mg/kg once daily). Blood samples were collected before the study (zero time) and every 4 weeks for the measurement of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very LDL-C (VLDL-C), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and endothelin-1 (ET-1). Results: Dapagliflozin treatment showed insignificant elevation in total cholesterol and LDL-C, significant decrease VLDL-C and TG, and significant elevation of HDL-C level (P Conclusion: Dapagliflozin may have a beneficial effect on atherosclerosis by slightly interfering with inflammatory and oxidative pathways and can reduce the atherosclerotic lesion formation; however, our study needs further clinical studies to be carried out on large population.

Effect of Valsartan and Folic Acid on Vascular Reactivity, Leptin Hormone and Some Biochemical Parameters in Fat Diet-Induced Obese Male Rats

AbstractBackground: The development of a chronic low-grade inflammatory state has been shown to play a central role in the development of metabolic complications associated with obesity.Aim of Study: The aim was to determine the impact of oral administration of valsartan and folic acid to fat diet-induced obese male rats on the vascular reactivity & on the serum levels of leptin and some inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.Material and Methods: Fifty male albino rats of local strain were randomized into five equal groups: Control, obese, valsartan-treated obese, folic acid-treated obese and combined valsartan and folic acid-treated obese groups. Obesity was induced by feeding high fat diet and treatment was done for indicated groups for 16 weeks. Thereafter, weight and length were measured, and rats were subjected for rat tail-measurement of Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP). Then, fasting retro-orbital blood samples were collected for measuring serum Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TGs), Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), High Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (HDL-C), Malondialdehyde (MDA), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and leptin levels, as well as serum Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activities, andurinary nitrite/nitrate (NOx) level. Rats were tested for Vascular Reactivity to Acetylcholine (VRACh) and sodium nitroprusside (VRSNP) by Doppler flowmeter. Lastly, rats were sacrificed and abdominal visceral fats were resected and weighed.Results: High fat diet resulted in marked impairment of all the measured parameters, except VRSNP. Treatment of obese rats with valsartan resulted in improvement of BMI, adipose tissue mass, TC, LDL, CRP, leptin, NOx, MDA, SBP and VRACh; however, total body weight, TGs, HDL-C and antioxidant enzyme activities were not affected. Folic acid administration to obese rats improves all serum lipid param-eters, increased GPx and SOD activities, and showed a better effect than valsartan on NOx, leptin andVRACh, but less effect on CRP. On the other hand, folic acid had no effect on the anthropometric parameters and SBP of obese rats. Com-bined treatment showed a reduction in total body weight, and a significant better improvement of all the measured parame-ters, except MDA, than those of isolated valsartan or folic acid treatment, with normalization of MBI, TGs, LDL-C, NOx and VRACh.Conclusion: Both valsartan and folic acid, when admin-istered separately, ameliorate the detrimental effects of fat diet-induced obesity in rats. Combined valsartan and folic acid prophylactic treatment of fat diet-induced obese rats has an additive beneficial effect on the associated dyslipidemia, inflammatory state, oxidative stress, leptin hormone level, and endothelial dysfunction that is possibly achieved by different mechanisms of action.

Evaluation of Rumex hastatus leaves against hepatic fibrosis: a rat model

BackgroundRumex hastatus leaves have been widely used as food additive and for the treatment of various liver ailments. According to our previous studies, ethyle acetate (ERL) and methanolic (MRL) fractions of R. hastatus leaves are an accessible source of natural antioxidants. In the present research work we arranged to investigate the R. hastatus leaves as hepaptoprotective agent verse hepatic damages caused by CCl4.MethodsDuring this project we divided 48 rats into eight groups randomly. CCl4-induced damages were assessed through liver function markers viz.; alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), γ-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Changes in lipid profile were checked by measuring serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (Tg), high density lipoproteins (HDL) and low density lipoproteins (LDL). Antioxidant status was checked by the activities of antioxidant enzymes, DNA damages and cellular abnormalities at histo level.ResultsAdministration of CCl4 in rats caused significant increase in liver function and lipid profile indicating hepatic damages which were restored by co-administration of R. hastatus extracts. Cellular and DNA damages in hepatic tissues were caused by CCl4 which shown clear hepatic fibrosis in addition to disturb antioxidant enzyme level. Co-treatment with various fractions of R. hastatus leaves regulated these markers of oxidative dysfunctions.ConclusionFrom the present report it was inferred that R. hastatus leaves have the ability to reverse CCl4 - induced hepatic damages.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of dimethyl fumarate in hypercholesterolemic rabbits

The present study aimed to determine the possible beneficial effects of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) against oxidative stress and inflammation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Twenty four New Zealand male rabbits were randomly allocated into 4 groups as the following: Group I (control): rabbits received standard rabbit chow; Group II high cholesterol diet (HCD): rabbits received 1% cholesterol-enriched chow for 4weeks; Group III (HCD-DMF): rabbits received 1% cholesterol-enriched chow and administered DMF (12.5mg/kg/day, orally) for 4weeks; Group IV (DMF): rabbits received standard chow plus DMF (12.5mg/kg/day, orally) for 4weeks. At the end of experiment (day 30), blood samples were collected for measuring serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and C-reactive protein (CRP). In addition, the aorta was removed for measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), mRNA expression of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and histological assessment of intima/media (I/M) ratio. HCD-fed rabbits showed significant increases in TGs, TC, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), aortic MDA and aortic I/M ratio levels while they significantly exhibited a reduced SOD level relative to control animals. Moreover, HCD rabbits demonstrated upregulated mRNA expression of CETP. DMF administration significantly decreased HCD-induced elevations in serum TC and LDL-C. Additionally, DMF decreased aortic level of MDA while increased SOD level. Moreover, DMF significantly downregulated mRNA expression of CETP and reduced the elevation in I/M ratio.In conclusion, this study suggests that DMF has the ability to improve HCD-induced vascular irregularities, possibly via its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect.

Effect of selenium and melatonin on some parameters Related to metabolic syndrome induced by Acryl amide in male rats (Part I)

This study was designed to investigate the ameliorative role of sodium selenite and melatonin on acryl amide induced metabolic syndrome in adult male rats. Twenty (20) adult male rats were randomly and equally divided into 4 groups (G1, G2, G3 and G4) and were treated orally for seven weeks G1, (control group) was given distilled water, G2 were given orally 1mg/kg /B.W of Acryl amide, G3 group received 1mg/kg /B.W of Acryl amide followed by 0.5 mg/Kg/ B.W. of sodium selenite orally. G4 group received 1 mg/kg /B.W of acryl amide (orally) followed by 8 mg/Kg/ B.W. melatonin (IP/ injection). Fasting blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture at (0, 7 weeks) of the experiment for measuring serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol and serum uric acid, in addition to measuring waist circumference .The results showed an occurrence of central obesity, hyper uricemia, dyslipidemia (hyper cholesterolemia, triacyleglycerolemia and lowered high density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentration) in acryl amide treated animals. The results also indicated the alleviation of the changes in the above- mentioned parameters related to metabolic syndrome by sodium selenite and melatonin through lowering central obesity, total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, elevation of serum high density lipoprotein-cholesterol and lowering in serum uric acid.

Preventive and therapeutic effects of compound ginkgo extract in rats with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis induced by high-fat, high-fructose diet

Objective: To establish a rat model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and to investigate the preventative and therapeutic effects of compound ginkgo extract against NASH. Methods: A total of 60 male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with high-fat feed and 10% fructose water for 24 weeks to establish the rat model of NASH. The general behaviors of the rats were observed, and the body weight was recorded. Blood samples from the inferior vena cava and the liver were collected after the last administration to measure serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as liver function parameters. The liver index was calculated, HE staining was performed to observe liver histopathological changes, and the total lipase activity and the levels of TC, TG, and free fatty acid (FFA) in liver tissue were measured. Results: After 24 weeks, compared with the normal group, the model group had a significantly faster increase in body weight, significant increases in serum levels of TC (2.20±0.52 mmol/L), TG (0.87±0.22 mmol/L), LDL-C (1.22±0.50 mmol/L), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (129.4±44.7 U/L), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (209.3±42.8 U/L), liver index (3.62%±0.28%), and the levels of TC (4.42±1.39 mmol/mg.prot), TG (0.85±0.11 mmol/mg.prot), and FFA (644.78±36.65μmol/L) in liver tissue, and significant reductions in serum HDL-C level (0.58±0.11 mmol/L) and the activity of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) (9.95±1.64 U/mg.prot) and hepatic lipase (HL) (9.91±1.03 U/mg.prot) (allP< 0.01). In addition, the pathological results showed severe hepatocyte steatosis, varying degrees of inflammatory cell infiltration, exudation in the portal area, and necrosis of liver cells in the model group. After the intervention with compound ginkgo extract, there were significant reductions in serum levels of TC (1.78±0.21 mmol/L), TG (0.58±0.07 mmol/L), LDL-C (0.84±0.19 mmol/L), and ALT (84.1±17.1 U/L), AST (155.4±20.9 U/L), liver index (2.71%±0.15%), and the levels of TC (2.24±1.02 mmol/mg.prot), TG (0.46±0.11 mmol/mg.prot), and FFA (580.56±50.63μmol/L) in liver tissue, as well as significant increases in serum HDL-C level (0.68±0.10 mmol/L) and the activities of LPL (15.54±2.21 U/mg.prot) and HL (11.92±1.87 U/mg.prot) (P< 0.05 orP< 0.01). At the same time, it significantly reduced hepatomegaly in rats and improved fatty degeneration and degree of inflammation in liver cells. Conclusion: Compound ginkgo extract can prevent and treat NASH by correcting dyslipidemia, improving liver function and fatty degeneration in hepatocytes, and reducing the degree of inflammation, and its mechanism of action may be associated with increasing total lipase activity, reducing FFA in the liver, increasing the decomposition of TG, and reducing the synthesis of TG.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of flavocoxid in high-cholesterol-fed rabbits.

Flavocoxid is a mixed extract containing baicalin and catechin, and it acts as a dual balanced inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2 peroxidase enzyme activities with a significant inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzyme activity in vitro. Flavocoxid downregulates gene or protein expression of several inflammatory markers and exerts also strong antioxidant activity in several experimental models. Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In the present study, an experimental rabbit model of hypercholesterolemia was developed and the effects of flavocoxid were evaluated. Rabbits were divided into four groups-normal control, high-cholesterol-diet (HCD)-fed group, HCD plus flavocoxid (20mg/kg/day), or HCD plus atorvastatin (10mg/kg/day). Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment for measuring serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), C-reactive protein (CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, the aorta was removed for measurement of antioxidant status, vascular reactivity, and intima/media (I/M) ratio. Elevated levels of serum TC, TGs, LDL-C, and CRP were measured in HCD group. Moreover, HCD caused a significant increase in serum and aortic MDA concomitantly with a reduction in serum and aortic GSH and SOD. Immunohistochemical staining of aortic specimens from HCD-fed rabbits revealed high expression levels of both tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB. Rabbits in flavocoxid group showed significantly lower levels of serum CRP, serum, and aortic MDA and higher levels of serum HDL-C, serum, and aortic GSH and SOD compared to HCD group. HCD-induced elevations in serum TC and LDL-C did not significantly affected by flavocoxid treatment. Additionally, flavocoxid significantly enhanced rabbit aortic endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine and decreased the elevated I/M ratio. This effect was confirmed by histopathological examination of the aorta. Moreover, flavocoxid effectively suppresses the release of inflammatory markers. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that flavocoxid would be useful in preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction induced by HCD.

Attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic rabbits by allicin.

Allicin, the active substance of garlic, exerts a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities and is considered to have potential therapeutic applications. The present study was designed to investigate the possible beneficial effects of allicin against oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Male New Zealand white rabbits were used in this study. Rabbits randomly received 1 of the following treatments: normal chow diet for 4 weeks, 1% high cholesterol diet (HCD), HCD plus allicin (10 mg/kg/day), or HCD plus atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day). Blood samples were collected at the end of experimental diets for measurement of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), C-reactive protein (CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, the aorta was removed for measurement of vascular reactivity, histopathological changes, intima/media (I/M) ratio, and immunohistochemical staining of both tumor necrosis-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB. HCD induced significant increases in serum TC, TGs, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), CRP, and MDA. Moreover, HCD caused significant decrease in serum GSH and SOD. In addition, aortic relaxation response to acetylcholine (ACh) was impaired. Immunohistochemical staining of aortic specimens from HCD-fed rabbits revealed high expression levels of both TNF-α and the oxidant-induced transcription factor, NF-κB. Allicin supplementation significantly decreased serum MDA and CRP, increased serum HDL-C, GSH, and SOD levels while nonsignificantly affecting HCD-induced elevations in serum TC and LDL-C. Additionally, allicin significantly protected against HCD-induced attenuation of rabbit aortic endothelium-dependent relaxation to ACh and elevation in I/M ratio. This effect was confirmed by histopathological examination of the aorta. Moreover, allicin has substantially beneficial effects on aortic expression of TNF-α and NF-κB compared with HCD-fed rabbits. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that allicin may be useful in reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular dysfunction, and the aortic pathology in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

Effects of menopause, gender and age on lipids and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol subfractions

ObjectiveTo distinguish the effects of menopause, gender and age on serum lipid risk markers for vascular disease, including high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) subfractions 2 and 3 (HDL2-C and HDL3-C). MethodsWe undertook a cross-sectional database analysis of apparently healthy Caucasian pre- and postmenopausal women and men (n=515, 518 and 800, respectively) not taking drugs affecting lipid metabolism (including contraceptive or post-menopausal steroids). Measurements of serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), HDL-C, HDL2-C, HDL3-C and non-HDL-C concentrations and the TC/HDL-C concentration ratio were considered. ResultsMen had lower TC than postmenopausal women (p<0.001) and similar LDL-C. Compared with premenopausal women, postmenopausal women had a more atherogenic lipid profile with lower HDL2-C (median 0.67 vs 0.60mmol/L, p<0.001) but no difference in HDL3-C (0.96 vs 0.96mmol/L, p=0.8). Compared with either pre or postmenopausal women, men had a more atherogenic profile with lower HDL2-C (0.36mmol/L) and HDL3-C (0.91mmol/L, all p<0.001). With standardization for confounding variables, including standardization to age of menopause (50 years), differences apparent in the non-standardized comparisons were generally sustained, although HDL3-C levels were lower at menopause, HDL2-C ceased to differ and LDL-C was lower in postmenopausal women than men. ConclusionsMale gender is associated with a more atherogenic profile than female gender, with appreciably lower levels of the HDL2-C subfraction. Among women, menopause is associated with a more atherogenic lipid profile, but has less effect than male gender.

Effects of carbon disulfide inhalation on lipid levels of ApoE gene knockout mice and C57BL/6J mice

To investigate the effects of carbon disulfide (CS(2)) inhalation on the lipid levels of ApoE knockout gene mice and C57BL/6J mice. Fifty-one male ApoE gene knockout mice were randomly divided into four groups: CS(2)-exposed normal diet group, CS(2)-unexposed normal diet group, CS(2)-exposed high-fat diet group, and CS(2)-unexposed high-fat diet group. Fifty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups in the same way. The exposed groups received 1000 mg/m3 CS(2) by static inhalation (5h/d, 5d/w) for four weeks. The weight of each mouse was determined and recorded once a week. On the 14th day of exposure, six mice in each group were randomly selected to measure serum total cholesterol (TC) levels. On the 28th day of exposure, the serum levels of TC and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the remaining mice were measured. The mean weight gain of exposed groups was less than that of the unexposed groups. On the 14th and 28th days of experiment, the TC levels of the CS2-exposed high-fat diet group were significantly higher than those of the CS(2)-unexposed high-fat diet group among ApoE knockout gene mice (P < 0.01 for both). On the 14th day of experiment, the TC levels of the CS(2)-unexposed high-fat diet group were significantly higher than those of the CS(2)-unexposed normal-diet group among C57BL/6J mice group (P < 0.05). On the 28th day of experiment, the LDL levels of the CS(2)-exposed high-fat diet group were significantly higher than those of the CS(2)-unexposed high-fat diet group among ApoE knockout gene mice (P = 0.003). CS(2) exposure, high-fat diet, and ApoE gene knockout can elevate blood lipids in mice, thus increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Effects of breastfeeding on the risk factors for metabolic syndrome in preterm infants.

Evidence suggests that breastfeeding during infancy lowers the risk of metabolic syndrome (MS) and its attendant risk factors in adult life. To investigate the influence of feeding type on the risk factors of MS, we assessed insulin sensitivity and lipid and apolipoprotein metabolism in preterm infants. Blood samples were collected from preterm infants at the time of discharge. Infants were separated into two groups: a breast milk (BM) group receiving ⩾90% of their intake from BM, and a mixed-fed (MF) group receiving ⩾50% of their intake from formula. The following indices were then compared between the two groups. Blood glucose and serum insulin levels were used to calculate the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI). We also measured serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc), apolipoprotein-A1 (apoA1) and apolipoprotein-B (apoB) levels, and the ratios of TC/HDLc, LDLc/HDLc and apoB/apoA1. The mean gestational age was 32.9 weeks at birth, and blood samples were collected at a mean corrected age of 37.4 weeks. There were 22 infants in the BM group and 19 in the MF group. QUICKI was significantly higher in the BM group. TC, HDLc and apoA1 were not significantly different between the groups, but LDLc and apoB levels were significantly higher in the BM group. The TC/HDLc, LDLc/HDLc and apoB/apoA1 ratios were significantly higher in the BM group. In preterm infants, the type of feeding exposure in the early postnatal period may influence glucose, lipid and apolipoprotein metabolism, and affect markers of MS.

A controlled study of serum lipid profiles in Indian patients with depressive episode.

Background:Lower levels of circulating lipid fractions and cholesterol are risk factors for impulsivity and depressive disorder. A lower level of serum cholesterol is also associated with patients presenting with history of self-harm.Materials and Methods:A total of 30 depressive patients and 30 healthy matched control subjects were recruited from the department of Psychiatry of a tertiary care hospital. We measured serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels of both patient and control group.Results:The serum TC and LDL-cholesterol levels were found to be significantly lower in study group than that of control group.Conclusion:Lower levels of serum cholesterol are associated with depressive disorder.

Changes of lipoproteins in phenylalanine hydroxylase-deficient children during the first year of life

BackgroundInfluence of hyperphenylalaninemia on lipoproteins in early life remains unclear. MethodsWe enrolled 24 phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH)-deficient children who were classified into a phenylketonuria (PKU) group (n=12) lacking PAH activity and a benign hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) group (n=12) having partial PAH activity, and their 11 non-affected siblings. We measured serum total-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels together with apolipoproteins for the first year of life, and compared them with those of 30 age-matched healthy controls. ResultsThe affected groups invariably had lower cholesterol levels than non-affected groups. At birth, HDL-cholesterol decrease was greatest and predominated over the LDL-cholesterol decrease: total cholesterol, 28/36% decrease to the control level in HPA/PKU; HDL-cholesterol, 33/51%; LDL-cholesterol, 20/28%. At 3months, the opposite changes were observed: total cholesterol, 16/28%; HDL-cholesterol, 13/23%; LDL-cholesterol, 16/33%. At 12months, LDL were still significantly lower in both groups (8/18%, p<.05 and .001), although HDL was significantly decreased only in the PKU group (15%, p<.05). Apolipoprotein A-I/A-II and B changed respectively in accordance with HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol changes. Despite similar phenylalanine levels, the PKU group invariably had lower cholesterol concentrations than the HPA group had. ConclusionIrrespective of phenylalanine concentrations, lipoprotein synthesis in PAH-deficient children, particularly in PKU children, was suppressed in early life.