Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiles Research Articles

Effects of Supplemented Mediterranean Diets on Plasma-Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiles and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease after 1 Year of Intervention in the PREDIMED Trial.

Plasma fatty acids (FAs) have been associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Diet and endogenous metabolism influence the FA profile of the plasma phospholipid (PL) fraction. In the PREDIMED trial, we examined 1-year changes in the FA profile of plasma PL according to a nutritional intervention with Mediterranean diets, either supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil (MedDiet + EVOO) or mixed nuts (MedDiet + nuts), in a high cardiovascular risk population. We also analyzed if 1-year changes in PL FAs were associated with subsequent cardiovascular risk. We included 779 participants in our case-cohort study: 185 incident cases and 594 participants in the subcohort (including 31 overlapping cases). The end point was the incidence of CVD. We measured the FAs of plasma PL at baseline and after 1 year of intervention. MedDiet + EVOO increased C17:0 and C20:3n9 in linear regression models [β coefficientperSD : 0.215 (95% CI, 0.032-0.399) and 0.271 (0.107-0.434), respectively] and decreased 16:1n7 and C22:4n6 [βperSD: -0.239 (95% CI, -0.416 to -0.061) and -0.287 (95% CI, -0.460 to -0.113), respectively] vs the control group. MedDiet + nuts increased C18:3n3 [βperSD: 0.382 (95% CI, 0.225 - 0.539)], C18:2n6 [βper SD: 0.250 (95% CI, 0.073 - 0.428)], C18:0 [βperSD: 0.268 (95% CI, 0.085-0.452)], and C22:0 [βper SD: 0.216 (95% CI, 0.031-0.402)]; and decreased the sum of six n6 FAs [βper SD: -0.147 (95% CI, -0.268 to -0.027)] vs the control group. The 1-year increase in C18:2n6 was inversely associated with the subsequent CVD risk (HRperSD: 0.64 (95% CI, 0.44-0.92)). MedDiet interventions changed n6 FAs and C16:1n7c; other changes were specific for each group: MedDiet + EVOO increased C17:0 and C20:3n9, and MedDiet + Nuts C18:3n3, C18:2n6, C18:0, and C22:0 FAs.

Elevated plasma phospholipid n-3 docosapentaenoic acid concentrations during hibernation.

Factors for initiating hibernation are unknown, but the condition shares some metabolic similarities with consciousness/sleep, which has been associated with n-3 fatty acids in humans. We investigated plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles during hibernation and summer in free-ranging brown bears (Ursus arctos) and in captive garden dormice (Eliomys quercinus) contrasting in their hibernation patterns. The dormice received three different dietary fatty acid concentrations of linoleic acid (LA) (19%, 36% and 53%), with correspondingly decreased alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (32%, 17% and 1.4%). Saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids showed small differences between summer and hibernation in both species. The dormice diet influenced n-6 fatty acids and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations in plasma phospholipids. Consistent differences between summer and hibernation in bears and dormice were decreased ALA and EPA and marked increase of n-3 docosapentaenoic acid and a minor increase of docosahexaenoic acid in parallel with several hundred percent increase of the activity index of elongase ELOVL2 transforming C20-22 fatty acids. The highest LA supply was unexpectantly associated with the highest transformation of the n-3 fatty acids. Similar fatty acid patterns in two contrasting hibernating species indicates a link to the hibernation phenotype and requires further studies in relation to consciousness and metabolism.

Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile, estimated desaturase activities and prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in a general population cohort: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: An altered plasma fatty acid (FA) profile and desaturase activities have been associated with several metabolic diseases, including the MetS, but studies in the general populations are lacking, and only few studies have investigated a broad spectrum of FA in plasma phospholipids (PL). OBJECTIVE: We investigated, cross-sectionally, the relationship of the FA profile and desaturase activities in plasma PL with the prevalence of MetS in a general population in The Netherlands. METHODS: Baseline characteristic data from 850 participants (male: 50.2%) aged 38-68 years recruited in the Lifelines cohort study were obtained. The FA profile was determined in fasting plasma PL, and desaturase activities were estimated from product/precursor ratios. The MetS was defined according to International Diabetes Federation. Logistic regressions were used to examine the relation of the FA profile with the prevalence of MetS, and Bonferroni correction was applied to account for multiple testing. RESULTS: 151 participants (17.7%) had the MetS. After adjustment for several confounders and Bonferroni correction, higher tertiles of C18 : 0 (the early precursor of de novo lipogenesis pathway), C18 : 3n6 and C20 : 3n6 (both consistent with a high Δ6 desaturase (D6D) activity), and D6D activity itself were associated with a higher prevalence of MetS, while higher tertiles of C18 : 1n7, C24 : 0, and C24 : 1n9 (very long chain FA) as well as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD)-18 were inversely associated with the MetS. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that a wide-ranging plasma PL FA profile and estimated desaturase activities were different between adults with and without the MetS in a general representative population and implicates the importance of monitoring individual FAs and desaturase activities as novel modifiable biomarkers for the MetS.

Impact of a food-based dietary fat exchange model for replacing dietary saturated with unsaturated fatty acids in healthy men on plasma phospholipids fatty acid profiles and dietary patterns

PurposeUK guidelines recommend dietary saturated fatty acids (SFAs) should not exceed 10% total energy (%TE) for cardiovascular disease prevention, with benefits observed when SFAs are replaced with unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a dietary exchange model using commercially available foods to replace SFAs with UFAs.MethodsHealthy men (n = 109, age 48, SD 11 year) recruited to the Reading, Imperial, Surrey, Saturated fat Cholesterol Intervention-1 (RISSCI-1) study (ClinicalTrials.Gov n°NCT03270527) followed two sequential 4-week isoenergetic moderate-fat (34%TE) diets: high-SFA (18%TE SFAs, 16%TE UFAs) and low-SFA (10%TE SFAs, 24%TE UFAs). Dietary intakes were assessed using 4-day weighed diet diaries. Nutrient intakes were analysed using paired t-tests, fasting plasma phospholipid fatty acid (PL-FA) profiles and dietary patterns were analysed using orthogonal partial least square discriminant analyses.ResultsParticipants exchanged 10.2%TE (SD 4.1) SFAs for 9.7%TE (SD 3.9) UFAs between the high and low-SFA diets, reaching target intakes with minimal effect on other nutrients or energy intakes. Analyses of dietary patterns confirmed successful incorporation of recommended foods from commercially available sources (e.g. dairy products, snacks, oils, and fats), without affecting participants’ overall dietary intakes. Analyses of plasma PL-FAs indicated good compliance to the dietary intervention and foods of varying SFA content.ConclusionsRISSCI-1 dietary exchange model successfully replaced dietary SFAs with UFAs in free-living healthy men using commercially available foods, and without altering their dietary patterns. Further intervention studies are required to confirm utility and feasibility of such food-based dietary fat replacement models at a population level.

Zinc Deficiency, Plasma Fatty Acid Profile and Desaturase Activities in Hemodialysis Patients: Is Supplementation Necessary?

Background: Desaturation and elongation are critical processes in endogenous metabolic fatty acid pathways. Zinc (Zn) is a cofactor for desaturases and elongases enzymes. There is limited evidence regarding the relationships between biomarkers of Zn status, nutritional intake, plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile and clinical outcomes among patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD).Objective: To examine the relationships between dietary and serum levels of Zn and Cu/Zn ratio and to explore associations of these micronutrients with PUFA profile and estimated desaturase and elongase enzyme activities in serum phospholipids among HD patients.Methods: This study included 40 adult patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. Repeated 24-h recalls were applied for dietary intake assessment. Serum concentration of Zn and Cu were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and fatty acid composition by gas-liquid chromatography. Desaturase and elongase activities were calculated from product-precursor fatty acid ratios.Results: Inadequate dietary Zn intake was found in 55% of HD patients. They all had serum Zn concentration below the reference value of 60 μg/dL (mean 38.8 ± 7.72 μg/dL). Adequate zinc intake was accompanied with significantly higher intake of energy, total fats, SFA, MUFA and proteins. There was no correlation between Zn serum status and Zn intake estimates. Serum Cu/Zn ratio was high, (2.76 ± 0.68), directly and significantly associated with HD period, CRP, BMI, VFA, and inversely with Kt/V, albumin, iron, and iPTH. The n-6/n-3 ratio in plasma phospholipids was elevated (12.25 ± 3.45) and patients with inadequate Zn intake had lower n-3 PUFA intake and status compared to those with adequate intake. Serum Zn concentrations were inversely correlated with linoleic/dihomo-γ-linolenic acid ratio (LA/DGLA) (p = 0.037), related to D6-desaturase activity (p = 0.033) and directly with DGLA relative abundances (p = 0.024). Cu status was inversely associated with EPA level (p = 0.03) and estimates of elongase activity (p = 0.001). Furthermore, positive relationship was found between the Cu/Zn ratio and determined elongase value (p = 0.01).Conclusion: Findings of this study underpin the high prevalence of Zn deficiency and inadequate n-3 PUFA intake and status among subjects undergoing HD. The results obtained indicate that the assessment of Zn status should be a standard parameter of nutritional status screening in HD patients while emphasizing the importance of Cu/Zn determination. Although further research is warranted, Zn and-n-3 PUFA supplementation in HD patients might be beneficial for the prevention and attenuation of adverse health outcomes

Case-cohort study of plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles, cognitive function, and risk of dementia: a secondary analysis in the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study

Phospholipids are biomarkers of dietary fat intake and metabolism, linked to several cardiometabolic disorders. Few prospective studies have assessed plasma phospholipids in relation to dementia risk and cognitive function. We aimed to evaluate the association between a decrease in linoleic acid accompanied with an increase in other fatty acids and cognitive function and dementia risk. We conducted a case-cohort study nested within the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study. We included 1252 participants, 498 of whom who developed dementia during a mean of 5 y of follow-up. We measured 45 individual plasma phospholipids (as a percentage of total plasma phospholipid fatty acids) by GC and related these to Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MSE) scores at baseline and neurologist-adjudicated incidence of all-cause dementia and Alzheimer disease (AD), adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Substitution of 1% of SFAs for 1% of linoleic acid, the predominant polyunsaturated n-6 (ɷ-6) fatty acid, was associated with higher risk of dementia (HR per 1% of SFAs instead of linoleic acid=1.03; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.07) and a 0.08 point lower 3MSE score at baseline (95% CI: -0.12, -0.03), signifying worse cognitive function. When compared with linoleic acid, we found no associations of total monounsaturated, n-3 polyunsaturated, or trans fatty acids with risk of dementia or AD. However, the substitution of 1% of the marine n-3 PUFA DHA for linoleic acid was associated with lower risk of dementia (HR=0.86 per 1% of DHA instead of linoleic acid; 95% CI: 0.76, 0.96). These associations were not modified by apolipoprotein E genotype, mild cognitive impairment at baseline, age, or sex. Specific elements of diet may be associated with late-life dementia, a hypothesis that requires formal testing in randomized controlled trials and that represents a possible preventive intervention.

Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles confirm compliance to the dietary exchange of saturated with unsaturated fat in healthy men using full-fat or lower-fat dairy foods: results from the Reading, Imperial, Surrey, Saturated fat, Cholesterol Intervention (RISSCI) study

Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles confirm compliance to the dietary exchange of saturated with unsaturated fat in healthy men using full-fat or lower-fat dairy foods: results from the Reading, Imperial, Surrey, Saturated fat, Cholesterol Intervention (RISSCI) study

Influence of fish oil on plasma phospholipid fatty acid composition in lung cancer patients

Rationale: Marine n-3 fatty acids have well-known anti-inflammatory effects, and may be used as a nutritional support for cancer patients. In this study, we investigated the effect of fish oil supplementation on changes in the plasma phospholipid fatty acid (FA) profile of patients with non-small lung cancer receiving primary anti-neoplastic treatment.

FADS2 polymorphisms are associated with plasma arachidonic acid and estimated desaturase-5 activity in a cross-sectional study

Polymorphisms in FADS genes are associated with plasma long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) and modulate omega-6/omega-3 balance. We hypothesized that the FADS2 gene variants will be associated with lower product-to-precursor ratio in the fatty acid metabolic pathways. Thus, we explored FADS2 rs174593, rs174616, and rs174576 effects on plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile, markers of desaturase activities, and risk factors in a sample of apparently healthy Serbian adults. Food and nutrient intake data were compiled through 24 h recalls. Plasma phospholipid fatty acid content was assessed by gas-chromatography. Estimated desaturase activities were calculated as conversion rates towards LC-PUFA in omega-6 pathway. During the selection of FADS2 polymorphisms, we accounted for their positional and functional aspect. Genotyping was performed by Real-Time PCR. Multivariable-adjusted general linear and hierarchical regression models were applied. Study subjects (mean age = 40 ± 7 years, 70% who were overweight) had a median dietary omega-6/omega-3 ratio of 16.29. Alternative allele frequencies were 33%, 36%, and 51% for rs174593, rs174576, and rs174616, respectively. Addition of FADS2 alternative alleles was associated with lower plasma arachidonic acid (AA, C20:4 n-6, P < .001) and estimated desaturase-5 activity (P < .001), irrespective of gender, age, daily polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid intake, and obesity. The rs174576 association with AA withstood multiple testing and additional adjustments for other variants (multivariable-adjusted β = −1.14 [95% CI: −2.25, −0.43]). None of the variants was associated with dietary intake, serum lipids, or obesity. We observed inverse associations between FADS2 variants and plasma AA but not omega-3 fatty acids in Serbian subjects, with rs174576 exhibiting the strongest relation.

Increasing the proportion of plasma MUFA, as a result of dietary intervention, is associated with a modest improvement in insulin sensitivity.

The effect of modifying dietary fatty acid (FA) composition on insulin sensitivity remains unclear. We aimed to investigate whether changes in plasma phospholipid (PL) FA composition, as a result of dietary intervention, correspond with changes in insulin sensitivity. The RISCK study was a 6-month randomised controlled dietary intervention study, which assessed the effect of modifying dietary fat and the glycaemic index (GI) of carbohydrates on insulin sensitivity. Total NEFA levels, fasting plasma PL FA profiles and an insulin sensitivity index (Si), derived from intravenous glucose tolerance minimal-model analysis, were available from 533 participants, all at elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Bivariate correlations between changes in saturated PL FA (SFA), MUFA (as a percentage of total plasma NEFA) and changes in Si were assessed according to treatment group. Age, sex, ethnicity, percentage change in body mass and change in dietary GI were controlled for. Increasing total NEFA concentration was associated with worsening Si (r -0·152; P = 0·001). In the high-MUFA/low-GI diet group, change in PL-MUFA was positively and independently associated with change in Si (r 0·297; P = 0·002). Among MUFA, change in oleic acid (18 : 1) was most strongly correlated with change in Si (r 0·266; P = 0·005), as was change in minor FA 24 : 1 (r 0·244; P = 0·011) and 17 : 1 (r 0·196; P = 0·042). In the high-SFA/high-GI group, change in SFA concentration was not significantly associated with change in Si. In conclusion, increases in the proportion of plasma PL-MUFA following a high-MUFA dietary intervention were associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity.

Changes in plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles over 13 years and correlates of change: European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Norfolk Study

ABSTRACTBackgroundLittle is known about changes in blood fatty acid compositions over time and the correlates of any changes in a general population.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to estimate changes in 27 individual plasma phospholipid fatty acids and fatty acid groups over time, and to identify potential correlates of these changes.MethodsPlasma phospholipid fatty acids were profiled at 3 time-points (1993–1997, 1998–2000, 2004–2011) among 722 participants in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Norfolk Study, UK. Linear regression models were used to estimate both 1) mean changes over time in 27 individual fatty acids and 8 prespecified fatty acid groups and 2) associations of changes in dietary and lifestyle factors with changes in the 8 fatty acid groups, mutually adjusted for dietary/lifestyle factors and other confounders. The prespecified fatty acid groups were odd-chain saturated fatty acids (SFAs), even-chain SFAs, very-long-chain SFAs, marine n–3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), plant n–3 PUFA, n–6 PUFAs, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and trans-fatty acids (TFAs).ResultsAdjusted for confounders, fatty acid concentrations decreased for odd-chain SFAs (annual percentage difference in mol percentage: −0.63%), even-chain SFAs (−0.05%), n–6 PUFAs (−0.25%), and TFAs (−7.84%). In contrast, concentrations increased for marine n–3 PUFAs (1.28%) and MUFAs (0.45%), but there were no changes in very-long-chain SFAs or plant n–3 PUFA. Changes in fatty acid levels were associated with consumption of different food groups. For example, a mean 100 g/d increase in fatty fish intake was associated with a 19.3% greater annual increase in marine n–3 PUFAs.ConclusionsEven-chain SFAs and TFAs declined and marine n–3 PUFAs increased over time. These changes were partially explained by changes in dietary habits, and could potentially help interpret associations of baseline fatty acid composition with future disease risk.

Plasma phospholipid fatty acids are associated with altered fibrin clot properties in a population-based setting

Evidence regarding the relationship of plasma clot properties with fatty acids is contradictory, owing to different experimental protocols employed. The relationship of fibrinogen and plasma fibrin clot properties with plasma phospholipid fatty acids were cross-sectionally investigated in a population-based setting in 900 individuals. Composite saturated fatty acids (driven by stearic acid) and composite n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (driven by docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acid respectively) were associated with prothrombotic clot properties. Composite monounsaturated fatty acids (driven by oleic acid) were associated with a profibrinolytic clot phenotype. Fibrinogen and BMI partly mediated these relationships. Individual plasma fatty acids from the same composite group had opposing associations with clot properties indicating that associations with composite fatty acid groups is dependent on the relative composition of the comprising fatty acids. The relationship of the plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile with disease should not be interpreted without considering the role of regulatory mechanisms.

Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile confirms compliance to a novel saturated fat-reduced, monounsaturated fat-enriched dairy product intervention in adults at moderate cardiovascular risk: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDairy products are a major contributor to dietary SFA. Partial replacement of milk SFA with unsaturated fatty acids (FAs) is possible through oleic-acid rich supplementation of the dairy cow diet. To assess adherence to the intervention of SFA-reduced, MUFA-enriched dairy product consumption in the RESET (REplacement of SaturatEd fat in dairy on Total cholesterol) study using 4-d weighed dietary records, in addition to plasma phospholipid FA (PL-FA) status.MethodsIn a randomised, controlled, crossover design, free-living UK participants identified as moderate risk for CVD (n = 54) were required to replace habitually consumed dairy foods (milk, cheese and butter), with study products with a FA profile typical of retail products (control) or SFA-reduced, MUFA-enriched profile (modified), for two 12-week periods, separated by an 8-week washout period. A flexible food-exchange model was used to implement each isoenergetic high-fat, high-dairy diet (38% of total energy intake (%TE) total fat): control (dietary target: 19%TE SFA; 11%TE MUFA) and modified (16%TE SFA; 14%TE MUFA).ResultsFollowing the modified diet, there was a smaller increase in SFA (17.2%TE vs. 19.1%TE; p < 0.001) and greater increase in MUFA intake (15.4%TE vs. 11.8%TE; p < 0.0001) when compared with the control. PL-FA analysis revealed lower total SFAs (p = 0.006), higher total cis-MUFAs and trans-MUFAs (both p < 0.0001) following the modified diet.ConclusionThe food-exchange model was successfully used to achieve RESET dietary targets by partial replacement of SFAs with MUFAs in dairy products, a finding reflected in the PL-FA profile and indicative of objective dietary compliance.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02089035, date 05-01-2014.

Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiles in Korean Adults With and Without Acute Coronary Syndrome

Background and ObjectivesAcute coronary syndrome (ACS), a clinical manifestation of coronary artery disease presenting as unstable angina and/or myocardial infarction, is the third‐leading cause of death in South Korea. Plasma phospholipid (PL) fatty acid profiles are considered objective biomarkers of both dietary fat type and indicator of endogenous fatty acid metabolism, and have been associated with cardiovascular disease risk in multiple cohorts. Little data are available about the relationship between these biomarkers and ACS in the Korean population. Our objective was to assess the relationship of plasma PL fatty acid profiles among Korean adults with (cases) and without (controls) diagnosed ACS.MethodsPlasma was collected from newly diagnosed cases (n=30) and controls (n=29) at Ewha Womans University Medical Center (EUMC), Seoul, South Korea. Cases and controls were matched on the basis of age (51±7 y) and sex. PL fatty acids profiles were determined by gas chromatography, and expressed as molar percentage (mol%). Thirty‐six fatty acids were resolved. Fatty acid product‐to‐precursor ratios were calculated to estimate desaturase enzyme activities (stearoyl‐CoA‐desaturase [SCD1; 161n‐7/16:0], SCD2 [18:1n‐9/18:0], delta‐6‐desaturase [D6D; 20:3n‐6/18:2n‐6] and delta‐5‐desaturase [D5D; 20:4n‐6/3n‐6]). Data were analyzed using either paired t‐test or Wilcoxon signed rank test as appropriate. Fatty acids were categorized into tertiles and logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for ACS risk with the lowest tertile serving as the reference.ResultsMyristic (14:0; p = 0.041), gamma‐linolenic (18:3n‐6; p = 0.029), dihomo‐gamma‐linolenic (20:3n‐6; p = 0.050), docosadienoic acid (22:2n‐6; p = 0.050), docosatetraenoic (22:4n‐6; p = 0.037) and conjugated linoleic acid (18:2C; p = 0.025) were significantly higher, whereas nervonic acid (24:1n‐9; p = 0.042) and DHA/AA ratio (p = 0.030) were significantly lower in cases compared to the control subjects. A trend toward higher arachidonic (20:4n‐6; p = 0.068) was observed in the cases. ACS risk was significantly lower among those in the highest tertile of DHA/AA (OR: 0.25 [95% CI: 0.07– 0.94]) and significantly higher among those in the highest tertile of gamma‐linolenic (18:3n‐6; OR: 4.6 [95% CI: 1.2–18.1]).ConclusionsThese data indicate that ACS cases have a higher proportion of fatty acids in the endogenous omega‐6 pathway and lower DHA/AA ratio.Support or Funding InformationSources of Funding: This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education (NRF‐2012R1A1A2008597) and a National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute T32 Nutrition and Cardiometabolic Disorders Pre‐doctoral Research Training Grant (NIH T32HL069772‐15).

The effects of polyphenol-rich chokeberry juice on fatty acid profiles and lipid peroxidation of active handball players: results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

The effect of polyphenol-rich chokeberry juice consumption on plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles of 32 active male and female handball players was examined. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted during the preparatory training in a closed campus, where 18 players (8 males, 10 females) consumed 100 mL of chokeberry juice, while 14 players (7 males, 7 females) consumed placebo. Lipid status, glucose, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and percentages of fatty acids were assessed at baseline and at the end of the study. Consumption of chokeberry juice induced decreases of C18:1n-9 and C18:3n-3 in men, but no changes in female players. However, placebo-controlled groups had reduced proportions of mono- (C16:1n-7, C18:1n-7) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs: C18:3n-3, C20:5n-3, and C22:4n-6) in males, as well as n-6 PUFAs and total PUFAs in females after consumption. These results indicate that chokeberry juice had a weak impact on attenuating the effect of intensive training in active handball players.

Altered Saturated and Monounsaturated Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiles in Adult Males with Colon Adenomas.

Altered lipid metabolism and plasma fatty acid (FA) levels are associated with colorectal cancer. Obesity and elevated waist circumference (WC) increase the likelihood of developing precancerous colon adenomas. Venous blood was collected from 126 males, ages 48 to 65 years, who received routine colonoscopies. Plasma phospholipid (PPL) FAs were isolated, derivatized, and then analyzed using gas chromatography. ORs and 95% confidence intervals were determined using polytomous logistic regression after adjusting for confounding factors [i.e., age, smoking, WC, and body mass index (BMI)]. PPL palmitic acid (PA) was inversely correlated with the presence of colon adenomas (P = 0.01). For each unit increase in palmitoleic acid (OR, 3.75; P = 0.04) or elaidic acid (OR, 2.92; P = 0.04), an individual was more likely to have adenomas relative to no colon polyps. Higher enzyme activity estimates (EAE) of stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1; P = 0.02) and elongation of very long chain fatty acids protein-6 (ELOVL-6; P = 0.03) were associated with an individual being approximately 1.5 times more likely to have an adenoma compared with no polyps. PPL FAs and EAEs, which have previously been associated with colorectal cancer, are significantly different in those with adenomas when compared with those without polyps. PPL PA, elaidic acid, and SCD-1 and ELOVL-6 EAEs are associated with adenomas independent of BMI and WC. PPL PA, elaidic acid, and SCD-1 and ELOVL-6 EAEs are associated with adenomas even after adjusting for obesity-related risk factors and may function as novel biomarkers of early colorectal cancer risk.

Abstract MP39: Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid and Coronary Heart Disease Risk

Introduction: The 2013 AHA/ACC Guideline recommended limiting saturated fatty acids (SFA) and substituting SFA with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in diet. Dietary intake data derived from self-reports is prone to measurement error and studies have been criticized for this reason. An objective alternative approach to examining the role of different dietary fatty acids on coronary heart disease (CHD) risk is to measure plasma phospholipid fatty acid (PL-FA) profiles, which reflect both dietary intake and endogenous metabolism, hence are proximal to the pathophysiologic processes of CHD. Our aim was to evaluate the role of plasma PL-FA profiles on CHD risk both directly and by estimating the theoretical effects of plasma “substitution” of various fatty acids for each other on CHD risk, and evaluate the consistence with the AHA/ACC Guideline. Hypothesis: Plasma SFA is associated with increased CHD risk, and “substituting” plasma SFA with MUFA, PUFA n-6 or n-3 is associated with lower CHD risk. Methods: We performed a nested case-control study with 2428 postmenopausal women in Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study (1214 CHD cases-controls pairs matched for baseline age, enrollment date, ethnicity and hysterectomy). Plasma PL-FA profiles were measured using gas chromatography methodology and expressed as molar percentage (mol%). Multivariate conditional logistic regression was used to calculate ORs for CHD risk associated with 1 mol% PL-FA increase, and “substitutions” of various fatty acids for each other, adjusting for matching factors, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), smoking, family history of diabetes, anticoagulant medication, hormone therapy, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and alternative healthy eating index. In addition, we tested the interactions of BMI and hormone therapy with PL-FAs. Results: In multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis, plasma PL SFA was associated with increased CHD risk (OR=1.16, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.24) and PUFA n-3 was associated with decreased CHD risk (OR=0.92, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.97). No significant associations were observed for MUFA, PUFA n-6 and trans -fatty acids. “Substituting” 1 mol% SFA with an equivalent proportion of MUFA, PUFA n-6, or n-3 were associated with lower CHD risk (OR=0.81, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.88; OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.84;and OR=0.85, 95%CI 0.80 to 0.92, respectively). “Substituting” PUFA n-6 with n-3 was associated with lower CHD risk (OR=0.92, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.98) while no significant effect was found for “substituting” PUFA n-6 with MUFA. No significant interactions were obtained of BMI and hormone therapy with PL-FAs. Conclusion: This plasma PL-FA “substitution” analysis is consistent with the AHA/ACC Guideline and suggests that “substituting” PL SFA with MUFA, PUFA n-6 or n-3, and “substituting” PUFA n-6 with n-3 is associated with lower CHD risk.

Abnormalities in Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiles of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. In the present study, we aimed to profile the possible changes in plasma phospholipid fatty acid composition of HCC patients, and to identify the fatty acid biomarkers that could distinguish HCC patients from healthy controls. A total of 37 plasma samples from healthy controls and HCC patients were collected and their phospholipid fatty acid profiles were characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry followed by multivariate statistical analysis. Twenty-five fatty acids were identified and quantified, their proportions varied greatly between two groups, suggesting each group has its own fatty acid pattern. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis in terms of fatty acid profiles showed that HCC patients could be clearly distinguished from healthy controls. More importantly, linoleic acid (18:2n-6), oleic acid (18:1n-9), arachidonic acid (20:4n-6) and palmitic acid (16:0) were identified as the potential fatty acid biomarkers of HCC patients. Additionally, to further identify the major cause of the abnormality of plasma fatty acid profile, fatty acid distributions of cancerous tissue and its surrounding tissue from 42 HCC patients were also examined. Due to have similar variation trend of major fatty acid biomarkers, linoleic acid (18:2n-6), oleic acid (18:1n-9), abnormalities in plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiles of HCC patients may be mainly attributed to the alternation of intrinsic fatty acid metabolism caused by cancer per se, but not to the differences in dietary factors.

N‐6 Fatty Acids Instead of n‐3 and Saturated Fatty Acids Correlate with Body Fat Distribution From Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue to Visceral Adipose Tissue in Healthy and Overweight Subjects

ObjectiveOur aim was to investigate the association between the plasma phospholipid (PPL) fatty acid profile and fat distribution in both healthy and overweight subjects.MethodsTotally 108 of 1066 Chinese adults stratified by gender and body mass index (BMI) were enrolled. The subjects received lifestyle questionnaire survey, physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The PPL fatty acid profile was determined by gas chromatography. The fat distribution including subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) and skeletal muscle (SM) was measured by MRI.ResultsPPL n‐3 PUFA levels were inversely associated with SAT in healthy but not overweight subjects. However, no correlation between PPL n‐3 PUFA levels and VAT was observed. PPL n‐6 PUFA levels were directly correlated with SAT and VAT in healthy subjects, while PPL SFA levels were positively associated with SAT and VAT in overweight subjects. Multiple regression analysis revealed PPL n‐6 PUFA were positively correlated with SAT instead of VAT in healthy subjects, but positively associated with VAT instead of SAT in overweight subjects after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, smoking, drinking and education level. PPL n‐3 PUFA did not significantly correlate with both SAT and VAT after adjustments. Logistic regression results showed that PPL n‐6 PUFA levels could be used to estimate the obese state.ConclusionsPPL phospholipid n‐6 PUFA instead of n‐3 PUFA and SFA as important predictors positively correlate with fat distribution from SAT to VAT. Consequently, PPL n‐6 PUFA levels could be used to estimate the obese state.

Effects of FADS and ELOVL polymorphisms on indexes of desaturase and elongase activities: results from a pre-post fish oil supplementation.

Polymorphisms (SNPs) within the FADS gene cluster and the ELOVL gene family are believed to influence enzyme activities after an omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid (FA) supplementation. The objectives of the study are to test whether an n-3 supplementation is associated with indexes of desaturase and elongase activities in addition to verify whether SNPs in the FADS gene cluster and the ELOVL gene family modulate enzyme activities of desaturases and elongases. A total 208 subjects completed a 6-week supplementation period with 5 g/day of fish oil (1.9–2.2 g/day of EPA + 1.1 g/day of DHA). FA profiles of plasma phospholipids were obtained by gas chromatography (n = 210). Desaturase and elongase indexes were estimated using product-to-precursor ratios. Twenty-eight SNPs from FADS1, FADS2, FADS3, ELOVL2 and ELOVL5 were genotyped using TaqMan technology. Desaturase indexes were significantly different after the 6-week n-3 supplementation. The index of δ-5 desaturase activity increased by 25.7 ± 28.8 % (p < 0.0001), whereas the index of δ-6 desaturase activity decreased by 17.7 ± 18.2 % (p < 0.0001) post-supplementation. Index of elongase activity decreased by 39.5 ± 27.9 % (p < 0.0001). Some gene–diet interactions potentially modulating the enzyme activities of desaturases and elongases involved in the FA metabolism post-supplementation were found. SNPs within the FADS gene cluster and the ELOVL gene family may play an important role in the enzyme activity of desaturases and elongases, suggesting that an n-3 FAs supplementation may affect PUFA metabolism.