Reduced Lipid Levels Research Articles

Type 3 resistant starch from Canna edulis reduce lipid levels in patients with mild hyperlipidemia through altering gut microbiome: A double- blind randomized controlled trial

Type 3 resistant starch from Canna edulis (Ce-RS3) is an insoluble dietary fiber which could improve blood lipids in animals, but clinically robust evidence is still lacking. We performed a double-blind randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of Ce-RS3 on lipids in mild hyperlipidemia. One hundred and fifteen patients were included followed the recruitment criteria, and were randomly allocated to receive Ce-RS3 or placebo (native starch from Canna edulis) for 12 weeks (20 g/day). In addition to serum lipids, complete blood counts, serum inflammatory factors, antioxidant indexes, and dietary survey, 16 S rRNA sequencing technique was utilized to analyze the gut microbiota alterations. Targeted quantitative metabolomics (TQM) was used to detect metabolite changes. Compared with the placebo, Ce- RS3 significantly decreased levels of total cholesterol, lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased the glutathione peroxidase. Based on the 16 S rRNA sequencing, TQM, the correlation analysis, as well as the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes (KEGG) and Genomes and Human Metabolome Database (HMDB) analysis, we found that Ce-RS3 could increase the abundances of genera Faecalibacterium and Agathobacter, while reduce the abundances of genera norank_f_Ruminococcaceae and Christensenellaceae_R-7_ group to regulate phenylalanine metabolism, which could reduce the fatty acid biosynthesis and fatty acid elongation in the mitochondria to lower blood lipids. Conclusively, we firstly confirmed the feasibility of Ce-RS3 for clinical application, which presents a novel, effective therapy for the mild hyperlipidemia. (Chictr. org. cn. Clinical study on anti-mild hyperlipidemia of Canna edulis RS3 resistant starch, ID Number: ChiCTR2200062871).

Purification of Phenolic Compounds from Camellia polyodonta Flower: Composition Analysis, Antioxidant Property, and Hypolipidemic Activity In Vitro and In Vivo.

Camellia polyodonta flowers are rich sources of phenolics and less attention has been paid to their potential biological activity. This study aims to explore the crude extracts and resulting purified fractions (CPFP-I, II, III, and IV) through compositional analysis and antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities in vitro and in vivo. Among four fractions, CPFP-II contained the highest total phenolic content and flavonoid content, while CPFP-III exhibited the greatest total proanthocyanidin content. Among the 14 phenolic compounds, CPFP-II displayed the highest content of procyanidin B2, B4, and C1, whereas CPFP-III contained the highest amount of 1,2,3,6-tetragalloylglucose. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assessments demonstrated a consistent trend: CPFP-II > CPFP-III > CPFP-I > CPFP-IV. In vivo experiments showed that that all four fractions significantly reduced lipid levels in hyperlipidemic C. elegans (p < 0.05), with CPFP-II exhibiting the most potent effect. Furthermore, CPFP-II effectively bound to bile acids and inhibited the enzymatic activity of pancreatic lipase in vitro. Consequently, CPFP-II should be prioritized as a promising fraction for further exploration and should provide substantial support for the feasibility of the C. polyodonta flower as a natural alternative.

Modulation of atherosclerosis-related signaling pathways by Chinese herbal extracts: Recent evidence and perspectives.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a preeminent cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The onset of atherosclerosis underpins the emergence of ischemic cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease (CHD). Its pathogenesis entails multiple factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, vascular endothelial damage, foam cell formation, and platelet activation. Furthermore, it triggers the activation of diverse signaling pathways including Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), NF-E2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE), the Notch signaling pathway, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), nucleotide oligo-structural domain-like receptor thermoprotein structural domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3), silencing information regulator 2-associated enzyme 1 (Sirt1), nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB), Circular RNA (Circ RNA), MicroRNA (mi RNA), Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT). Over recent decades, therapeutic approaches for atherosclerosis have been dominated by the utilization of high-intensity statins to reduce lipid levels, despite significant adverse effects. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the development of safer and more efficacious drugs and therapeutic modalities. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a vital strategy for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Numerous studies have detailed the mechanisms through which TCM active ingredients modulate signaling molecules and influence the atherosclerotic process. This article reviews the signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and the advancements in research on TCM extracts for prevention and treatment, drawing on original articles from various databases including Google Scholar, Medline, CNKI, Scopus, and Pubmed. The objective is to furnish a reference for the clinical management of cardiovascular diseases.

Proanthocyanidins and Phenolic Compounds from the Twigs of Salix chaenomeloides and Their Anti-Lipogenic Effects on 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes.

The present study investigated potential bioactive natural products from the EtOH extract of Salix chaenomeloides twigs using column chromatography, leading to the isolation of six compounds (1-6), which were characterized as two proanthocyanidins, procyanidin B2 (1) and procyanidin B1 (2), and four phenolic compounds, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid β-D-glucosyl ester (3), di-O-methylcrenatin (4), p-coumaric acid glucoside (5), and syringin (6) by the comparison of their NMR spectra with the reported data and high-resolution (HR)-electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (ESI-MS) analysis. We investigated the potential of six compounds (1-6) to inhibit adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, which showed that the compounds (1-6) significantly reduced lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes without affecting cell proliferation. Notably, compound 1 demonstrated a remarkable 60% and 90% reduction in lipid levels with 50 and 100 µM treatments, respectively. Oil Red O staining results indicated that compound 1 significantly inhibits the formation of lipid droplets, comparable to the effect of T863, an inhibitor of triglyceride used as a positive control, in adipocytes. Compound 1 had no effect on the regulators PPARγ, C/EBPα, and SREBF1 of adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, but compound 1 activated the fatty acid oxidation regulator, PPARα, compared to the lipogenic-induced control. It also suppressed fatty acid synthesis by downregulating the expression of fatty acid synthase (FAS). Finally, compound 1 induced the mRNA and protein levels of CPT1A, an initial marker of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation in 3T3-L1. This finding substantiates the anti-lipogenic and lipolytic effects of procyanidin B2 (1) in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, emphasizing its pivotal role in modulating obesity-related markers.

Post liver transplant refractory dyslipidemia

ABSTRACT A 53-year-old male presented with intractable pruritus and jaundice. He underwent liver transplantation for liver cirrhosis a year prior to the current presentation. Post-transplantation, he developed diabetes mellitus. He experienced an episode of early acute graft rejection, 2 months after transplantation, which was successfully treated. Subsequently, about a year after transplantation, he developed chronic graft rejection. He was treated with everolimus and prednisolone. Incidentally, he was found to have elevated blood cholesterol, triglycerides, and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. The lipid levels were significantly higher than those commonly encountered in post-liver transplant patients. Dyslipidemia was treated with maximum dose of high-intensity statin, ezetimibe, and fenofibrate. However, there was not much reduction in lipid levels, indicating resistance to treatment. Subsequently, injection evolocumab 140 mg subcutaneously was added, administered once every 2 weeks. Following that, after only three doses of injection, there was about 65% reduction in the LDL level, which sustained at lower levels with continued treatment using evolocumab. Evolocumab was proven to be highly effective in reducing lipid levels in post-liver transplant patients who are refractory to treatment with conventional lipid-reducing medications.

Investigation on Quality Characteristics and Antidiabetic Properties of Mulberry Leaf Fu Brick Tea

Mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) exhibit antidiabetic properties; however, their taste is unappetizing, leading to limited practical applications. Although Fu brick tea has a favorable flavor, its hypoglycemic effects are weak. Hence, we combined the two to create mulberry leaf Fu brick tea (SF) and investigated its sensory perception, safety, microorganism content, key metabolites, and impact on hyperglycemic mice using the same raw materials and techniques to prepare Fu brick tea (F) and mulberry leaf brick tea (S) individually. Our study showed that SF, which comprises blended mulberry leaf primary dark tea and primary dark tea (1 : 3 g/g), was sweeter and smoother, with a median lethal dose of 22.3 g/kg, indicating that it is safe for consumption. Compared to F, caffeine levels were reduced in SF and 1-deoxynojirimycin and aminobutyric acid levels were increased. Phenolic substances and flavonoids showed increased levels in SF compared with S. These changes contribute to the taste and functionality of SF. The primary microorganisms in SF were Bacillus, Lactobacillus, and Aspergillus, which contributed to the improved quality. SF demonstrated its antidiabetic effects by reducing the blood sugar levels of hyperglycemic mice, restoring the function of pancreatic cells, reducing lipid levels, and improving the antioxidant capacity of the liver. Overall, SF exhibited a better taste and antidiabetic properties than F and S, highlighting its potential as a functional beverage.

Exploring the dietary and therapeutic potential of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) sprouts.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThis research substantiates the traditional use of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. for liver health, with scientific evidence of the non-toxic and lipid-lowering properties of licorice sprout extracts. The sprouts' rich mineral and amino acid content, along with their strong antioxidant activity, reinforce their value in traditional medicine. These findings bridge ancient herbal practices with modern science, highlighting licorice's potential in contemporary therapeutic applications. Aim of the studyThe study aimed to investigate the dietary and medicinal potential of G. uralensis sprouts by assessing their safety, nutritional content, and antioxidant properties using both plant and animal models. Specifically, the study sought to determine the effects of different sizes of licorice sprouts on lipid metabolism in human liver cancer cells and their overall impact on rat health indicators. Materials and methodsThe study examined the effects of aqueous and organic extracts from G. uralensis sprouts of varying lengths on the cytotoxicity, lipid metabolism, and antioxidant activity in HepG2 cells, alongside in vivo impacts on Sprague-Dawley rats, using MTT, ICP, and HPLC. It aimed to assess the potential health benefits of licorice sprouts by analyzing their protective effects against oxidative stress and their nutritional content. ResultsLicorice sprout extracts from G. uralensis demonstrated no cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells, significantly reduced lipid levels, and enhanced antioxidant activities, with the longest sprouts (7 cm) showing higher mineral, sugar, and arginine content as well as increased glycyrrhizin and liquiritigenin. In vivo studies with Sprague-Dawley rats revealed weight gain and improved antioxidant enzyme activities in blood plasma and liver tissues after consuming the extracts, highlighting the sprouts' dietary and therapeutic potential. ConclusionsThis study is the first to demonstrate that G. uralensis sprouts, particularly those 7 cm in length, have no cytotoxic effects, reduce lipids, and have high mineral and antioxidant contents, offering promising dietary and therapeutic benefits.

Nutritional Potency of Mangifera indica L. (Mango): Focus on Mango as Antioxidant

Background:: Mango, known as "the king of fruits," is one of the most popular fruits on the planet. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive substances abound. Objective:: In the present review, we aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of mango as an antioxidant. Methods:: Scopus and ScienceDirect databases were used to gather research papers over the pre-vious 12 years. Results:: Our research explores the formidable antioxidant potential of mango, driven by its ele-vated phenolic and flavonoid content. Within mango, crucial metabolites such as glutathione and euxanthone contribute significantly to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory prowess. A note-worthy bioactive compound, Mangiferin, found in mango, exhibits anti-diabetic properties by inhibiting sucrase and isomaltase, consequently reducing glucose absorption in the intestine. Conclusion:: In our study, mango has demonstrated its ability to lower blood sugar levels, en-hance insulin production, and reduce lipid levels. These beneficial effects are attributed to high soluble fiber, polyphenols, and carotenoids, including quercetin and beta-carotene. Our findings shed light on the multifaceted health-promoting attributes of mango, positioning it as a valuable natural resource for potential dietary interventions and health enhancement. In conclusion, ef-fective blood sugar management hinges on strategic dietary decisions. Steering clear of high-glycemic combinations with mangoes, choosing daytime consumption, and integrating regular physical activity for energy equilibrium is paramount.

Identification and evaluation of putative type 2 diabetes mellitus inhibitors derived from Cichorium intybus

Diabetes, triggered by impaired glucose regulation, is characterized by the conversion of glucose to sorbitol by aldose reductase (AR). In prior studies to develop AR inhibitors, the toxicity and efficacy of the therapeutic molecules presented challenges throughout clinical trials. This led the researchers to investigate the potential biological modulation of natural products owing to their varied chemical structures. Cichorium intybus L. (C. intybus), commonly known as chicory, has a long history of medicinal use and shows potential pharmacological properties, particularly in reducing lipid levels. The study employs computational methods, including ADMET profiling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, to discover possible inhibitors of ALR-2 from C. intybus. The ADMET-filtered compounds from C. intybus show high binding energy viz, CID 8468: -133.295,370: -118.633, -109.479, and 359: -108.48 Kcal/mol. These compounds were observed to exhibit strong affinity and specificity for ALR-2 as comparable to epalrestat. MD simulation of the compounds 8468 and 370 for 100 ns, further authenticated the stability of their complexes with ALR2. The RMSD, RMSF, and intra-molecular interactions of the compounds were comparable to the native ligand-epalrestat, suggesting their potential to be considered as ALR2 inhibitors. Additional research including in vitro, in vivo analysis, and clinical trials is essential to accurately assess the efficacy of natural compounds.

The rhizomes of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz improve gastrointestinal health and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant mice via modulating intestinal barrier and water-fluid metabolism

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBaizhu (BZ) is the dried rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (Compositae), which invigorates the spleen, improves vital energy, stabilizes the fetus, and is widely used for treating spleen deficiency syndrome. However, the impact of BZ on gastrointestinal function during pregnancy remains unexplored. Aim of the studyThis study elucidated the ameliorative effects of BZ on gastrointestinal health and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant mice with spleen deficiency diarrhea (SDD). MethodsTo simulate an irregular human diet and overconsumption of cold and bitter foods leading to SDD, a model of pregnant mice with SDD was established using an alternate-day fasting and high-fat diet combined with oral administration of Sennae Folium. During the experiment, general indicators and diarrhea-related parameters were measured. Gastric and intestinal motility (small intestinal propulsion and gastric emptying rates) were evaluated. Serum motilin (MTL), ghrelin, growth hormone (GH), gastrin (Gas), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), chorionic gonadotropin β (β-CG), progesterone (P), and estradiol (E2) were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pathological changes were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E) and alcian blue periodic acid Schiff staining (AB-PAS). Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to measure the expression levels of the intestinal barrier and water metabolism-related proteins in colonic tissues. The pregnancy rate, ovarian organ coefficient, uterus with fetus organ coefficient, small size, average fetal weight, and body length of fetal mice were calculated. ResultsThe results showed that BZ significantly improved general indicators and diarrhea in pregnant mice with SDD, increased gastric emptying rate and small intestinal propulsion rate, elevated the levels of gastrointestinal hormones (AMS, ghrelin, GH, and Gas) in the serum, and reduced lipid levels (TC and LDL-c). It also improved colonic tissue morphology, increased the number of goblet cells, and promoted the mRNA and protein expression of occludin, claudin-1, ZO-1, AQP3, AQP4, and AQP8 in colonic tissues, downregulating the mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-2, thereby alleviating intestinal barrier damage and regulating the balance of water and fluid metabolism. BZ also held the levels of pregnancy hormones (β-CG, P, and E2) in the serum of pregnant mice with SDD. Moreover, it increased the pregnancy rate, ovarian organ coefficient, uterus with fetus organ coefficient, litter size, average fetal weight, and body length of fetal mice. These findings indicate that BZ can improve spleen deficiency-related symptoms in pregnant mice before and during pregnancy, regulate pregnancy-related hormones, and improve pregnancy outcomes.

Comprehensive Assessment of Lead Bioaccumulation in Helix aspersa (Müller, 1774), Snails: A Study of Histopathological and Biochemical Impacts

Background: The snail Helixa spersa is considered a relevant bioindicator of soil pollution by metallic elements due to its resistance and accumulation capabilities. Methods: This study aims to determine the dose-response relationship between different concentrations of lead and its toxic effects on juvenile H. aspersa through a semi-static ecotoxicity test under controlled conditions. In addition, continuous monitoring of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins of the snails affected by this metal was evaluated along with a histopathological study of the hepatopancreas. Result: The two-month lead exposure in H. aspersa resulted in significant alterations in biochemical and histological parameters. Lead concentrations in the hepatopancreas and foot exhibited a dose-dependent increase, with higher levels observed in the former. Elevated lead concentrations (1000 ìg/g and 1500 ìg/g of soil) led to substantial protein increase in both organs, while even lower doses displayed considerable protein elevation in the hepatopancreas. Carbohydrate levels were significantly lower in all contaminated groups compared to controls. Increasing lead concentrations caused a reduction in lipid levels. Histological analysis revealed distinct alterations, including excretory cell hypertrophy, tubule clustering and inflammatory changes in the hepatopancreas of treated snails. Severe histological damage, including inflammatory infiltrates, cellular debris and necrosis, were observed at higher lead concentrations (1000 and 1500 ìg/g). These findings emphasize the impact of lead exposure on biochemical profiles and organ histology in H. aspersa, highlighting the potential ecological implications of heavy metal contamination.

BCG as an Innovative Option for HCC Treatment: Repurposing and Mechanistic Insights.

This study investigates Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) as a potential treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a condition often associated with unfavorable treatment outcomes. Exploiting BCG's recognized immune-boosting properties, preclinical trials are conducted using HCC mice, with a single subcutaneous dose of BCG administered post-tumor formation. Results indicate that BCG treatment effectively diminishes tumor burden and extends survival in both male and female HCC mice. Positive influences on hepatic fibrosis and metabolism are observed, leading to a reduction in lipid levels. Spatial analysis underscores BCG's tumor-specific effects, inducing the enrichment of metabolic pathways and inhibiting various cancer-related pathways. Furthermore, BCG promotes immune cell infiltration, including CD4+, CD8+ T cells, and M1 macrophages, in both v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1(AKT)/neutoblastoma RAS viral oncogene homolog (RAS) and β-catenin positive HCC models. Interestingly, blocking T cells, trained immunity, and Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) function reverses BCG's anti-HCC effects. In conclusion, BCG emerges as a promising treatment option for HCC, characterized by a favorable safety profile and efficacy in inhibiting fibrosis, improving metabolism, and engaging both trained immunity and T cells in therapeutic mechanisms.

Model-Informed Dose Selection for a Novel Human Immunoglobulin G4 Derived Monoclonal Antibody Targeting Proprotein Convertase Kwashiorkor Type 9: Insights from Population Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics and Systems Pharmacology.

Monoclonal antibody drugs targeting proprotein convertase kwashiorkor type 9 (PCSK9) have recently demonstrated remarkable success in lipid-lowering therapies. Specifically, antibodies derived from immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1, alirocumab) and IgG2 (evolocumab) have been successfully utilized for this purpose. Recently, a novel recombinant fully human anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibody, originally derived from IgG4 and designated as SAL003, was developed. This study aimed to explore the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of SAL003 in both single and multiple administrations. The investigation included both healthy individuals and individuals with hyperlipidemia. To comprehensively grasp the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) attributes of SAL003, this study employed population PK-PD (popPK-PD) and mechanistic systems pharmacology (MSP) modeling. These models were employed for predicting low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) concentrations and appropriate dosages across diverse potential clinical scenarios. The research results indicated that SAL003 demonstrated comparable pharmacokinetic properties to evolocumab, exhibited notable effectiveness in reducing lipid levels, and was confirmed to be safe and well-tolerated in both healthy individuals and individuals with hyperlipidemia. Notably, SAL003 displayed differing effectiveness between patients and healthy populations. This discrepancy was observed in the popPK-PD model, with a positive population influence on Emax, and the MSP model, indicating elevated PCSK9 clearance and LDLr-related LDLc clearance in the healthy group. Simulation results from the popPK-PD and MSP models indicated a dosage of 140 mg of Q4W and 420 mg of Q8W for phase II/III clinical trials. Reducing the drug dose or extending the dosing intervals may result in treatment failure. Additionally, the simultaneous use of statins led to elevated PCSK9 levels and intensified fluctuations in steady-state LDLc levels during SAL003 treatment.

Application of Lipid Apheresis in Acute Lipogenic Pancreatitis

Plain Language SummaryHypertriglyceridemia-associated pancreatitis is a condition where high levels of fats in the blood can lead to pancreas inflammation. The treatment goal is to quickly lower these fat levels. Lipid purification, a method to remove fats from the blood, has shown promise but lacks clear guidelines for its use. This study aimed to analyze the data of patients with this type of pancreatitis who underwent lipid purification to determine its effectiveness. Five patients diagnosed with acute lipogenic pancreatitis were included in the study. They received routine therapies and underwent lipid purification using a technique called DFPP. After a single treatment, significant improvements were observed in the patients’ lipid levels. Triglyceride levels decreased by 80% on average, and total cholesterol decreased by 59%. Lipid purification effectively improved symptoms, reduced lipid levels.

Genetically proxied therapeutic inhibition of lipid-lowering drug targets and risk of rheumatoid arthritis disease: a Mendelian randomization study.

To evaluate the potential impact of consistent use of similar treatments over a long period; it is essential to investigate the potential correlation between genetic variations that influence the expression or function of pharmacological targets for reducing lipid levels and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. We used variants in the following genes to conduct Mendelian randomization analyses: HMGCR (encoding the target for statins), PCSK9 (encoding the target for PCSK9 inhibitors, such as evolocumab and alirocumab), and NPC1L1 (encoding the target for ezetimibe). Data from lipid genetics consortia (173,082 sample size) were used to weight variations according to their correlations with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). In two large datasets (total n = 19,562 cases, 501,655 controls). We conducted a meta-analysis of Mendelian randomization estimates, weighted by LDL-C levels, on the regional differences in the risk of rheumatoid arthritis using data from two large databases. We approached SMR and IVW-MR analyses to examine the relationship between target gene expression (including HMGCR, PCSK9, and NPC1L1) and LDL-C levels mediated by these genes with RA. The IVW-MR analysis revealed no significant association between genetically predicted LDL-C concentration and the risk of RA (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.59-1.29; OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.67-1.23; OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.49-1.36; all p > 0.05). Similarly, our findings from the SMR approach provided no evidence to suggest that gene expression of HMGCR, PCSK9, and NPC1L1 was associated with the risk of RA (OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.79-1.05, p = 0.207; OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.85-1.09, p = 0.493). Our results do not provide evidence to support the hypothesis that reducing LDL-C levels with statins, alirocumab, or ezetimibe effectively prevents the risk of developing RA. However, our study provides valuable insights into the assessment of lipid-lowering agents in RA, which can enhance our understanding of the condition and assist in clinical practice by aiding in the determination and monitoring of RA status to clinical response.

Impact of Mucuna pruriens seed on lipid profiles in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Background: Mucuna pruriens (MP) is a tropical legume, widely used in the treatment of parkinsonism, erectile dysfunction, anti-venomous, and anti-diabetic properties. It contains multiple phytonutrients and is rich in soluble fibers and proteins and is used as a drug of choice in traditional medicine for different ailments. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to study the hypolipidemic activity of alcoholic extract MP seeds in Type 2 diabetic rats with hyperlipidemia, by assessing lipid profile of rats in comparison with rats treated with a standard anti-diabetic drug. Materials and Methods: Fifty-four Wistar rat pups were made diabetic by injecting intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg). After 12 weeks, animals with diabetic and dyslipidemia were selected and divided into three groups diabetic control, test drug group (fed with MP alcoholic extract 200 mg/kg), and standard drug group (fed with glibenclamide 0.1 mg/kg), and 18 rats of same age were kept for normal control group. Results: MP seeds exhibited a gradual and progressive change in the low-density lipoprotein levels in diabetic rats (4th week [−34.3%], 8th week [−42.24%], and 12th week [−45.30%]), serum triglycerides levels (4th week [−39.3%], 8th week [−44.49%], and 12th week [−46.65%]). Whereas serum high-density lipoprotein levels were significantly increased (39.3% increase by 4 weeks, 54.95% increase by 8 weeks, and 61.03% increase by 12 weeks). This suggests that active phytochemical compounds in the MP seeds exert hypolipidemic properties by its antioxidant and high fiber content. Conclusion: MP seeds contain phytonutrients and soluble fiber compounds, which helps in reduction of lipid levels in rats with diabetes induced hyperlipidemia.

A Review of Lipid Management Guidelines

Introduction: Comprehensive analysis was conducted on available guidelines to identify gaps in the available evidence for effective approaches to lipid management. The four guidelines included in the review are NICE, ESC, CCS and AHA/ACC/MS. Method: Multiple databases were explored to locate relevant guidelines published within the past decade, until June 17, 2023. A qualitative comparison was made regarding recommendations on testing frequency, lipid-lowering therapies, and target cholesterol levels. Results: All the guidelines unanimously advocated for statins as the primary therapy for reducing lipid levels. Noteworthy disparities were observed in the recommended cholesterol targets across the various guidelines. Each guideline provided a specific target for the level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). For long-term patient monitoring, many of the guidelines (n=2) recommended annual reviews, although some variations were noted, suggesting intervals ranging from 3 weeks to 12 months. Conclusion: All the guidelines have the same scope, despite a few disparities, future research should focus on resolving these differences and on optimizing the preventive measures for lipid management. Keywords: lipid management, guidelines, review

Consumer Acceptance Studies of Margarine to Guide Product Development in the Food Industry.

Margarine exhibits significant variations in composition, allowing it to cater to diverse consumer segments. This study aimed to characterize the physical and sensory attributes of margarine samples available in the Brazilian market. Twelve commercial samples from six different brands, encompassing 30% to 80% of lipid contents, were subjected to instrumental texture analysis and affective assessment. A total of 112 consumers participated in acceptance tests and Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) evaluations, while another group of 62 subjects performed Projective Mapping. Samples with lipid percentages exceeding 70% achieved the highest average acceptance scores for taste and overall impression. The brand with the lowest lipid content (30%) exhibited a stronger association with negative attributes, including rancid flavor and aroma, bitterness, and metallic flavor, resulting in lower average scores for aroma, flavor, texture, and overall impression. However, these scores were not statistically different from samples with 50% and 60% lipid content. Reducing lipid levels in fat-based products such as margarine poses a challenge to food manufacturers, as consumers generally perceive higher lipid percentages as indicative of superior flavor quality.

The evaluation of atorvastatin as an adjunct to fluconazole for the anti-fungal prophylaxis in acute myeloid leukemia: a multicenter, triple-blinded, randomized clinical trial.

The development of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) is a serious complication in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients who undergo an induction to remission chemotherapy. Given the increased mortality in AML patients with IFI despite prophylaxis, we need to address this problem. Statins have traditionally been employed in clinical settings as agents for reducing lipid levels. Nonetheless, recent investigations have brought to light their antifungal properties in animals, as well as in vitro studies. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of atorvastatin when added to the routine IFI prophylaxis regimen in patients diagnosed with AML. A randomized, multicenter, triple-blind study was conducted on 76 AML patients aged 18-70, who received either placebo or atorvastatin in addition to fluconazole. Patients were followed for 30days in case of developing IFIs, patient survival, and atorvastatin- related adverse drug reactions. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 26.0. A level of significance of 0.05 was utilized as the threshold for all statistical tests. The data were analyzed by adjusting for the effect of age, regarding that there was a significant difference between the two groups, and showed that atorvastatin reduced the development of both probable and proven IFI (based on EORTC/MSGERC criteria) compared to placebo. IFI-free survival was also significantly better in the atorvastatin group. The incidence of developing aspergillosis did not differ between the two groups. No serious adverse events related to atorvastatin were observed. The present investigation has substantiated the antecedent in vitro and animal research on the fungicidal impact of statins and has suggested the need for additional research involving larger sample sizes and an extended duration of follow-up. Trial registration: This study was registered on the Iranian registry of clinical trials as IRCT20210503051166N1 (Date of confirmation 2021.05.03).

Ethanol extract of Rubia yunnanensis inhibits carotid atherosclerosis via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial vascular disease caused by endothelial dysfunction. Because of adverse reactions to drugs used to treat atherosclerosis. For example, statins, which significantly reduce the burden of atherosclerotic disease, have been associated with muscle toxicity. There is a need to identify novel drugs for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis Rubia yunnanensis is a herbs commonly used in Asian countries for its protective effects against cardiovascular diseases. However, the mechanism of action of R. yunnanensis extract in carotid artery atherosclerosis has not been found. The carotid artery is usually used as a site for clinical evaluation of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to determine the mechanism of action of R. yunnanensis extract in the inhibition of carotid atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E gene knockout (ApoE-/-) mice. The mechanism of atherosclerosis inhibition was elucidated by detecting the blood lipid level, carotid artery pathology, and the protein expression of PI3K and AKT. The present study demonstrated that ethanol extract of R. yunnanensis reduced lipid levels, intima damage and carotid lipid accumulation and increased p-PI3K/PI3K and p-AKT/AKT protein levels in ApoE-/- mice fed high-fat diet for 12 weeks. It was hypothesized that the effects of R. yunnanensis extract may be achieved by regulation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Ethanol extract of R. yunnanensis decreased carotid atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet via the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Therefore, R. yunnanensis may be a promising option for treating atherosclerosis in the future.