Serum Lipoprotein Concentrations Research Articles

Use of corn germ meal and bile acids in laying quail diets: effect on production, reproduction, health and economics

In the present study, the effects of corn germ meal (CGM) and bile acids (BA) inclusion in Japanese quail diet on the productive and reproductive performance, egg quality, and serum biochemical parameters were evaluated. Six wk old, 480 Japanese quail birds were randomly divided into 6 groups (60 hens and 20 males / group) with 4 replicates / group. CGM was incorporated at 0, 10 and 20 % of diet for groups (G1, G2, and G3), while G4, G5 and G6 had the same levels of CGM with BA addition (500 g/ton feed). The egg production (EP), egg mass (EM) and feed intake (FI) were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in response to CGM feeding which was clear with the 20 %. CGM at 10% inclusion enhanced the feed conversion ratio (FCR), while incorporation at 20% deteriorated (P < 0.05) it compared to the control group. Addition of BA to the CGM-containing diets reduced the FI, improved FCR, and ameliorated the negative effects on EP, EM and FCR in the CGM fed birds. Feeding on 10% CGM single or combined with BA increased fertility %, chick's weight after hatching and reduced embryonic death. Serum concentrations of triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were significantly increased (P < 0.05) with CGM inclusion. Dietary CGM inclusion without or with BA was associated with higher levels of serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein when compared to their control groups. BA addition to the CGM containing diets significantly reduced the alanine transaminase (ALT) activity (P ˂ 0.05) compared to their corresponding groups fed BA free diets especially those received the 10% CGM. Birds fed on 10% CGM supplemented with BA showed the highest economic efficiency values. In conclusion, CGM inclusion at 10% with BA supplementation could be used as alternative ingredient in the Japanese quail layer diet without compromising their productive performance.

Serum Interleukin (IL)-6, Lipid Profile, and Association With Disease Severity in Patients With Psoriasis: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This study estimated the lipid profile and inflammatory biomarker (interleukin-6, IL-6) levels in patients with psoriasis and explored the association between lipid profiles and inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6) in assessing the severity of the disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, in association with the Department of Dermatology, at the Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Burla, from November 2022 to June 2023. A fully automated analyzer (Cobas C311, Roche Diagnostics, Mannheim, Germany) was used to estimate the lipid profile, while the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Erba, Transasia Bio-medicals Ltd., Mumbai, India) was used to estimate the inflammatory marker (IL-6). Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). An unpaired t-test was conducted to examine the relationship between two variables. A p value of <0.05 was considered significant. The correlation among IL-6, lipid profile, and psoriasis area severity index (PASI) score was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Quantitative data were expressed as means and standard deviations. Of the 102 study participants, 68 had psoriasis alone, and 34 had psoriasis with arthritis (psoriatic arthritis, PsA). Higher mean serum concentrations of IL-6, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides were found in patients with PsAcompared to those with psoriasis alone. In patients with PsA, TCand IL-6showed a strong positive correlation with the PASIscore. In contrast, high-density lipoprotein showed a negative correlation with PASI (r = -0.036, p < 0.05). In conclusion, our study revealed lipid profile abnormalities and increased IL-6activity in PsA patients. By measuring inflammatory markers (IL-6) and lipid profiles early in the disease process, we can employ preventive strategies to better manage and improve survival and quality of life in patients with psoriasis.

Dietary n-3 alpha-linolenic and n-6 linoleic acids modestly lower serum lipoprotein(a) concentration but differentially influence other atherogenic lipoprotein traits: A randomized trial

Background and aimsLipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a causal, genetically determined cardiovascular risk factor. Limited evidence suggests that dietary unsaturated fat may increase serum Lp(a) concentration by 10–15 %. Linoleic acid may increase Lp(a) concentration through its endogenous conversion to arachidonic acid, a process regulated by the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) gene cluster. We aimed to compare the Lp(a) and other lipoprotein trait-modulating effects of dietary alpha-linolenic (ALA) and linoleic acids (LA). Additionally, we examined whether FADS1 rs174550 genotype modifies Lp(a) responses. MethodsA genotype-based randomized trial was performed in 118 men homozygous for FADS1 rs174550 SNP (TT or CC). After a 4-week run-in period, the participants were randomized to 8-week intervention diets enriched with either Camelina sativa oil (ALA diet) or sunflower oil (LA diet) 30–50 mL/day based on their BMI. Serum lipid profile was measured at baseline and at the end of the intervention. ResultsALA diet lowered serum Lp(a) concentration by 7.3 % (p = 0.003) and LA diet by 9.5 % (p < 0.001) (p = 0.089 for between-diet difference). Both diets led to greater absolute decreases in individuals with higher baseline Lp(a) concentration (p < 0.001). Concentrations of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), non-HDL-C, remnant-C, and apolipoprotein B were lowered more by the ALA diet (p < 0.01). Lipid or lipoprotein responses were not modified by the FADS1 rs174550 genotype. ConclusionsA considerable increase in either dietary ALA or LA from vegetable oils has a similar Lp(a)-lowering effect, whereas ALA may lower other major atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins to a greater extent than LA. Genetic differences in endogenous PUFA conversion may not influence serum Lp(a) concentration.

Single Ascending and Multiple-Dose Trial of Zerlasiran, a Short Interfering RNA Targeting Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a) is a causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and calcific aortic stenosis, with no pharmacological treatments approved by regulatory authorities. To assess the safety and tolerability of zerlasiran, a short interfering RNA targeting hepatic synthesis of apolipoprotein(a), and effects on serum concentrations of lipoprotein(a). Single- and multiple-dose study in healthy participants and patients with stable ASCVD, respectively, with lipoprotein(a) serum concentrations greater than 150 nmol/L, conducted at 7 research sites in the US, the Netherlands, UK, and Australia between November 18, 2020, and February 8, 2023, with last follow-up on August 23, 2023. Participants were randomized to receive (1) a single subcutaneous dose of placebo (n = 8), zerlasiran 300 mg (n = 6) or 600 mg (n = 6); or (2) 2 doses of placebo (n = 9), zerlasiran 200 mg (n = 9) at a 4-week interval or 300 mg (n = 9) or 450 mg (n = 9) at an 8-week interval. The primary outcome was safety and tolerability. Secondary outcomes included serum levels of zerlasiran and effects on lipoprotein(a) serum concentrations. Among 37 patients in the multiple-dose group (mean age, 56 [SD, 10.4] years; 15 [42%] women), 36 completed the trial. Among 14 participants with extended follow-up after single doses, 13 completed the trial. There were no serious adverse events. Median baseline lipoprotein(a) concentrations in the multiple-dose group were 288 (IQR, 199-352) nmol/L. Median changes in lipoprotein(a) concentration at 365 days after single doses were 14% (IQR, 13% to 15%) for the placebo group, -30% (IQR, -51% to -18%) for the 300 mg of zerlasiran group, and -29% (IQR, -39% to -7%) for the 600-mg dose group. After 2 doses, maximal median changes in lipoprotein(a) concentration were 19 (IQR, -17 to 28) nmol/L for the placebo group, -258 (IQR, -289 to -188) nmol/L for the 200 mg of zerlasiran group, -310 (IQR, -368 to -274) nmol/L for the 300-mg dose group, and -242 (IQR, -343 to -182) nmol/L for the 450-mg dose group, with maximal median percent change of 7% (IQR, -4% to 21%), -97% (IQR, -98% to -95%), -98% (IQR, -99% to -97%), and -99% (IQR, -99% to -98%), respectively, attenuating to 0.3% (IQR, -2% to 21%), -60% (IQR, -71% to -40%), -90% (IQR, -91% to -74%), and -89% (IQR, -91% to -76%) 201 days after administration. Zerlasiran was well tolerated and reduced lipoprotein(a) concentrations with infrequent administration. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04606602.

Lipoprotein alterations in endocrine disorders - a review of the recent developments in the field.

Dyslipidemia is one of the most common disorders worldwide, which, if left untreated, results in a multitude of complications. Thus proper diagnostics, which includes identifying of secondary causes of dyslipidemia is crucial. Endocrine disorders are an important cause of secondary dyslipidemia. This paper aims to review the publications on lipoprotein alterations in endocrine disorders from the past two years and provide an overview of the recent discoveries in this dynamically developing and large field. Significant changes in lipoprotein serum concentrations are present in most endocrinological diseases and can be modified with proper treatment. Some lipoproteins have also been proposed as markers in some endocrine diseases, e.g., thyroid carcinoma. From the scope of endocrine disorders, the largest number of studies explored the lipoprotein changes in polycystic ovary syndrome and in women during the menopausal and peri-menopausal period. Even though the association of thyroid disorders with dyslipidemia is already well studied, new research has delivered some exciting findings about lipoprotein alterations in euthyroid patients with either positive antithyroid peroxidase antibodies or reduced sensitivity to thyroid hormones. The problem of the adverse metabolic profile, including dyslipidemia in hypoprolactinemia has been recognized. Moreover, this review describes other significant discoveries encompassing lipoprotein alterations in disorders of the adrenals, thyroid, parathyroid glands, pituitary, and gonads. The up-to-date knowledge of the influence of endocrine disorders and hormonal changes on serum lipoproteins is prudent as it can significantly impact therapeutic decisions.

Assessment of Serum Lipoprotein(a) Status in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Lipoprotein (a) is made up of an atherogenic LDL lipoparticle and a potentially thrombogenic apoprotein a and is therefore responsible for cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study is to evaluate serum lipoprotein (a) status and to investigate the correlation of elevated serum lipoprotein (a) levels with other cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetics.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This is a case-control study involving 82 patients, 37 type 2 diabetic patients and 45 non-diabetic control subjects. Sociodemographic data were collected and each patient underwent routine lipid assessment and lipoprotein (a) testing.&#x0D; Results: The prevalence of hyperlipoproteinemia (a) is 17.8% in control subjects and 29.7% in type 2 diabetics. HDL cholesterolemia is significantly higher in controls than in type 2 diabetics (p =0.028) while LDL cholesterol and serum lipoprotein (a) levels are higher in type 2 diabetics than in controls with a statistically significant difference (p=0.025 and p=0.026 respectively). The mean lipoprotein (a) values ​​of 0.36±0.34 g/l in women are higher than those of male subjects which are 0.28±0.20 g/l (p=0.171). Mean serum lipoprotein (a) levels of 0.39±0.32 g/l in type 2 diabetics are significantly higher than those of controls which are 0.25±0.21 g/l (p= 0.026). Plasma concentrations of lipoprotein (a) vary with age and appear to be increased beyond the age of 45. There is no correlation between lipoprotein (a) and other cardiovascular risk factors.&#x0D; Conclusion: Hyperlipoproteinemia (a) is common in type 2 diabetics and women have the highest plasma levels. Serum lipoprotein (a) concentrations are not correlated with other cardiovascular risk factors and therefore constitute an independent risk factor.

Lipoprotein(a) serum concentrations in children in relation to body mass index, age and sex

BackgroundLipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is an inherited risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Limited data exist on Lp(a) values in children. We aimed to evaluate whether Lp(a) concentrations in youth are influenced by BMI.Methods756 blood samples of 248 children with obesity and 264 matched healthy children aged 5 and 18 years, enrolled in the population-based LIFE Child (German civilization diseases cohort) study, were analyzed. Repeat measurements were available in 154 children (1–4 follow ups, ~1 year apart).ResultsThe median Lp(a) concentration in the total cohort (n = 512) at first visit was 9.7 mg/dL (IQR 4.0–28.3). Lp(a) concentrations between 30–50 mg/dL were observed in 11.5%, while 12.5% exhibited Lp(a) ≧50 mg/dL. There was no association of Lp(a) with body mass index (BMI) (ß = 0.004, P = 0.49). Lp(a) levels did not correlate with age or sex, while Lp(a) was associated positively with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (ß = 0.05, P < 0.0001). The Lp(a) risk category remained stable in 94% of all children in repeated measurements.ConclusionsThe data showed no association of Lp(a) levels in children with BMI, age or sex. Measurement of Lp(a) in youth may be useful to identify children at increased lifetime risk for ASCVD.ImpactIn youth, Lp(a) levels are not affected by age, sex and BMI.Lp(a) risk categories remain stable over time in repeated measurements in children.Measurement of Lp(a) in children may be useful as an additional factor to identify children at increased lifetime risk for ASCVD and for reverse family screening.

Therapeutic siRNAs: small molecules with bigger function

In the realm of molecular medicine, therapeutic small-interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising class of molecules with exciting new opportunities in healthcare. An essential component of RNA interference (RNAi) is siRNA. In clinical setup, siRNA may be engineered to specifically target genes linked to certain diseases, providing a focused and accurate method of modulating gene expression. Many important factors characterize the use of therapeutic siRNA. Target gene expression is selectively silenced by therapeutic siRNA through the use of the RNAi pathway. Guided by corresponding messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences, the double-stranded siRNA molecule is integrated into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This mechanism causes translational repression or mRNA cleavage, which in turn causes the relevant protein to be downregulated. Therapeutic siRNA is a promising avenue in several areas. siRNA can be used in oncology to target oncogenes or other important regulators, inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Furthermore, by modifying the expression of genes linked to disease, siRNA may be used to treat viral infections, neurological conditions, and other rare and hereditary diseases. The selectivity of therapeutic siRNA is one of its main advantages. siRNA sequences can be engineered and customized to target specific genes linked to different diseases like cancer or genetic disorders. This focused strategy improves the accuracy of the therapeutic intervention and reduces off-target effects. In a recent article by Nissen et al., siRNA targeting LP(a) in a trial with 48 participants without cardiovascular disease and with lipoprotein(a) concentrations of 75 nmol/L or greater (or ≥30 mg/dL), was used to evaluate its tolerability and efficacy to reduce LP(a). Results showed that Lepodisiran was found to be well tolerated and resulted in dose-dependent, long-lasting reduction in serum lipoprotein(a) concentrations in phase 1 trial with elevated lipoprotein(a) levels. Therapeutic siRNA-based diagnosis is rapidly advancing, and several siRNA-based medications are now entering clinical trials. These trials aim to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety, and effectiveness of siRNA therapeutics in human subjects, offering crucial new information about their potential as a treatment option. Despite the therapeutic potential of siRNA, clinical translation of siRNA faces a challenge in its effective delivery. Naked siRNA molecules are more likely to degrade with a poor half-life and poor cellular uptake. Therefore, to increase the stability and delivery of therapeutic siRNA to target cells, a variety of delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, and polymer-based carriers, are being investigated.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Lepodisiran, an Extended-Duration Short Interfering RNA Targeting Lipoprotein(a)

Epidemiological and genetic data have implicated lipoprotein(a) as a potentially modifiable risk factor for atherosclerotic disease and aortic stenosis, but there are no approved pharmacological treatments. To assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and effects of lepodisiran on lipoprotein(a) concentrations after single doses of the drug; lepodisiran is a short interfering RNA directed at hepatic synthesis of apolipoprotein(a), an essential component necessary for assembly of lipoprotein(a) particles. A single ascending-dose trial conducted at 5 clinical research sites in the US and Singapore that enrolled 48 adults without cardiovascular disease and with lipoprotein(a) serum concentrations of 75 nmol/L or greater (or ≥30 mg/dL) between November 18, 2020, and December 7, 2021; the last follow-up visit occurred on November 9, 2022. Participants were randomized to receive placebo or a single dose of lepodisiran (4 mg, 12 mg, 32 mg, 96 mg, 304 mg, or 608 mg) administered subcutaneously. The primary outcome was the safety and tolerability of the single ascending doses of lepodisiran. The secondary outcomes included plasma levels of lepodisiran for 168 days after dose administration and changes in fasting lipoprotein(a) serum concentrations through a maximum follow-up of 336 days (48 weeks). Of the 48 participants enrolled (mean age, 46.8 [SD, 11.6] years; 35% were women), 1 serious adverse event occurred. The plasma concentrations of lepodisiran reached peak levels within 10.5 hours and were undetectable by 48 hours. The median baseline lipoprotein(a) concentration was 111 nmol/L (IQR, 78 to 134 nmol/L) in the placebo group, 78 nmol/L (IQR, 50 to 152 nmol/L) in the 4 mg of lepodisiran group, 97 nmol/L (IQR, 86 to 107 nmol/L) in the 12-mg dose group, 120 nmol/L (IQR, 110 to 188 nmol/L) in the 32-mg dose group, 167 nmol/L (IQR, 124 to 189 nmol/L) in the 96-mg dose group, 96 nmol/L (IQR, 72 to 132 nmol/L) in the 304-mg dose group, and 130 nmol/L (IQR, 87 to 151 nmol/L) in the 608-mg dose group. The maximal median change in lipoprotein(a) concentration was -5% (IQR, -16% to 11%) in the placebo group, -41% (IQR, -47% to -20%) in the 4 mg of lepodisiran group, -59% (IQR, -66% to -53%) in the 12-mg dose group, -76% (IQR, -76% to -75%) in the 32-mg dose group, -90% (IQR, -94% to -85%) in the 96-mg dose group, -96% (IQR, -98% to -95%) in the 304-mg dose group, and -97% (IQR, -98% to -96%) in the 608-mg dose group. At day 337, the median change in lipoprotein(a) concentration was -94% (IQR, -94% to -85%) in the 608 mg of lepodisiran group. In this phase 1 study of 48 participants with elevated lipoprotein(a) levels, lepodisiran was well tolerated and produced dose-dependent, long-duration reductions in serum lipoprotein(a) concentrations. The findings support further study of lepodisiran. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04914546.

Effect of pomegranate seed oil on egg production, egg quality and yolk fatty acid deposition in laying hen.

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) contains punicic acid as well as conjugated linolenic acid isomers, including α-eleostearic and catalpic acids, along with phytosterols, especially β-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol, with lipotropic impact and egg fortifying effect in laying hens. The present experiment was designed to examine the effects of PSO on egg production, egg quality, blood lipids and yolk fatty acid deposition in laying hens. A total of 360 Hy-line laying hens (w-80), at 25 weeks of age, were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design during a 10-week period. Experimental treatments consisted of a basal diet or supplementation of 1, 2, 3 and 4gPSO/kg to basal diet. Performance indicators and fatty acid composition of egg yolk were evaluated during different experimental periods. Blood lipid attributes were evaluated at the end of the experiment. Dietary supplementation of 4gPSO/kg feed increased daily feed intake and egg production rate of laying hens (p<0.05). There was not any significant influence of experimental treatments on egg quality, whereas an increasing trend observed in egg yolk colour of hens received dietary graded levels of PSO. Dietary supplemental 4g/kgPSO increased the proportion of yolk poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) concentration (p<0.05). Furthermore, the PUFA to saturated fatty acid ratio increased after dietary supplementation of 1 or 4g/kgPSO (p<0.05). Serum concentration of cholesterol, triacylglycerol and low-density lipoprotein decreased in response to the supplementation of more than 3gPSO/kg in the feed (p<0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 4g/kgPSO improved production rate and decreased blood lipids in laying hens. Moreover, dietary supplemental PSO modified yolk fatty acid deposition without detrimental effects on the egg quality.

Clinical and neurodevelopmental outcomes in premature infants exposed to intravenous fish- and soybean oil-based lipid emulsions.

The optimal composition of lipid emulsions in parenteral nutrition (PN) for premature infants remains controversial. This study examined the effects of a combination of soybean oil-based (SoyLE) and fish oil-based (FishLE) lipid emulsions compared to FishLE as monotherapy on the lipid and fatty acid profiles and clinical outcomes of premature infants requiring prolonged PN. 42 premature infants received FishLE+SoyLE or FishLE. Serum concentrations of lipoproteins and 29 fatty acids (FA) were measured at baseline, 4, and 8 weeks of PN and growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes were measured at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of life. Lipid profiles were similar between groups. Plasma concentrations of ω-6 fatty acids tended to decrease over time in both groups. Concentrations of most ω-3 fatty acids, in particular docosapentaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, were significantly increased over time in the FishLE+SoyLE group whereas they did not change in the FishLE alone group. However, serum concentrations of almost all fatty acids were similar between groups at the end of the study period. No differences in growth parameters including weight, height, fronto-occipital circumference (FOC), body mass index (BMI) were observed up to two years of age. Similarly, there were no differences in neurodevelopmental test scores at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age. No substantial differences in lipid profiles and short clinical outcomes were found in infants exposed to FishLE+SoyLE when compared to FishLE.

Effects of dietary Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supplementation on the production performance, egg quality, eggshell ultrastructure, and lipid metabolism of late-phase laying hens

BackgroundToward the late phase of laying, the production performance of laying hens decreases, egg quality deteriorates, lipid metabolism weakens, and hepatic lipid accumulation is exacerbated. Probiotics as an alternative to antimicrobials have been employed in poultry-related industries. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is currently the most researched and clinically validated probiotic, showing promising effects in multiple application areas. However, few studies have been conducted on livestock (including poultry) production.ResultsCompared with the CON group, the feed conversion ratio (P < 0.01) declined significantly in the LGG group. Eggshell strength (P < 0.001) and eggshell thickness (P < 0.001) were significantly increased by supplementation with LGG in the diet. The height (P < 0.001) and proportion (P < 0.05) of the effective layer and the mammillary knob density (P < 0.01) in the eggshell ultrastructure of the LGG group increased significantly, while the mammillary layer (P < 0.05) and knob width (P < 0.01) decreased significantly. The LGG-treated hens had significantly lower serum concentrations of low-density lipoprotein (P < 0.05), free fatty acids (P < 0.01), and liver triglyceride (P < 0.05) levels than those in the CON group.ConclusionsLGG supplementation significantly decreases the feed conversion ratio, improves eggshell quality by altering the ultrastructure, and improves lipid metabolism in the late laying period.

Haematology and serum biochemistry of Uda rams fattened with diets containing graded levels of groundnut oil

The study was conducted in Usmanu Danfodiyo University to determine the effects of groundnut oil on Haematology and serum biochemistry of fattened Uda rams. Four (4) dietary treatments were prepared; Treatment 1 which is the control, had no groundnut oil, while 2, 3 and 4 contained 15, 30 and 45 ml/kg groundnut oil. The results showed that except for packed cell volume, haemoglobin, MCV and MCH, which were significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher on the control diet, no haematological index was influenced by dietary groundnut oil supplementation. Similarly, most of the serum biochemical parameters studied did not reveal any significant (p&gt;0.05) effect of diet. However, total cholesterol was higher on T1 (1.74 mmol/l), T2 (1.72 mmol/l) and T3 (1.68 mmol/l), which were the same, than on T4 (1.41 mmol/l). High density lipoproteins for rams on T2 (0.85 mmol/l) and T3 (0.98 mmol/l) compared favourably with the control (0.60 mmol) which was lower than 1.25 mmol/l obtained on T4. It was therefore concluded that the supplementation of groundnut oil in the feed of fattening Uda rams at 45 ml/kg feed improves serum concentration of high-density lipoproteins (HDL).

The Protective Effects of the Echium amoenum Seed Oil Against Seizures Induced by Pentylenetetrazole

Background: Many recent studies have documented that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as a safe supplement raise seizure thresholds. However, the evidence of seed oil supplements on seizure susceptibility remains controversial, and among them, Echium seed oil (EO) is a mixture of ω-3 and ω-6 PUFAs. Objectives: This study aimed to test the effects of the sub-chronic administration of EO on intravenous pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) seizure threshold, considering its antioxidant activity and biochemical parameters. Methods: Fifty male mice were divided into five groups (10 in each), including control (no treatment), vehicle (sesame oil), and EO (1, 3, and 5 g/kg) groups. Vehicle and EO were administered p.o. once a day for four weeks. Then, the intravenous PTZ induced-seizure threshold was determined. Finally, the serum concentration of lipid, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was assessed. Results: Pretreatment with EO raised the seizure threshold dose-dependently compared to the vehicle. Pretreatment with EO had no adverse effect on the serum concentration of ALP, AST, ALT, creatinine, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), but at the dosages of 3 and 5 g/kg decreased the concentration of cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) (P &lt; 0.05), and triglyceride (TG) (P &lt; 0.01). Also, 1 and 3 g/kg of EO improved the activity of SOD (P &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: Pretreatment with EO increases the seizure threshold without negative impacts on the liver and kidney biomarkers, correlated with its positive effects on antioxidant activity and serum lipid profiles.

HDL Cholesterol Efflux and the Complement System Are Linked in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC), the ability of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol to accept cholesterol from macrophages, has been linked to cardiovascular events. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by the consumption of complement (C) proteins and has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. CEC is reduced in SLE patients compared to controls. In the present work, our objective was to analyze whether the disruption of C influences CEC in patients with SLE. New-generation functional assays of the three pathways of the C system were performed in 207 patients with SLE. Additionally, serum levels of inactive (C1q, C2, C3, C4, and factor D) and activated (C3a) molecules, and regulators (C1-inhibitor and factor H) of C system were measured. CEC, using an in vitro assay, and lipoprotein serum concentrations were assessed. Multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between C system and CEC. After full multivariable analysis, the alternative C cascade functional test showed a significant and negative relationship with CEC. This was also the case for C2 and C3, in which the associations were found to be positive and statistically significant, after adjustment for covariates. In conclusion, C system and CEC are interconnected in patients with SLE.

Association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with lipid profiles in osteoporosis patients: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BackgroundIn the literature, scarce data investigate the link between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and blood lipids in the osteoporosis (OP) population. 25(OH)D, as a calcium-regulating hormone, can inhibit the rise of parathyroid hormone, increase bone mineralization to prevent bone loss, enhance muscle strength, improve balance, and prevent falls in the elderly. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and lipid profiles in patients with osteoporosis, with the objective of providing insight for appropriate vitamin D supplementation in clinical settings to potentially reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease, which is known to be a major health concern for individuals with osteoporosis.MethodsThis is a retrospective cross-sectional study from the Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, including 2063 OP patients who received biochemical blood analysis of lipids during hospitalization from January 2015 to March 2022. The associations between serum lipids and 25(OH)D levels were examined by multiple linear regression. The dependent variables in the analysis were the concentrations of serum lipoprotein, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), apolipoprotein-A, lipoprotein A, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The independent variable was the concentration of blood serum 25(OH)D. At the same time, age, body mass index, sex, time and year of serum analysis, primary diagnosis, hypertension, diabetes, statins usage, beta-C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide were covariates. Blood samples were collected in the early morning after the overnight fasting and were analyzed using an automated electrochemiluminescence immunoassay on the LABOSPECT 008AS platform (Hitachi Hi-Tech Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). The generalized additive model was further applied for nonlinear associations. The inception result for smoothing the curve was evaluated by two-piecewise linear regression exemplary.ResultsOur results proved that in the OP patients, the serum 25(OH)D levels were inversely connected with blood TGs concentration, whereas they were positively associated with the HDL, apolipoprotein-A, and lipoprotein A levels. In the meantime, this research also found a nonlinear relationship and threshold effect between serum 25(OH)D and TC, LDL-C. Furthermore, there were positive correlations between the blood serum 25(OH)D levels and the levels of TC and LDL-C when 25(OH)D concentrations ranged from 0 to 10.04 ng/mL. However, this relationship was not present when 25(OH)D levels were higher than 10.04 ng/mL.ConclusionsOur results demonstrated an independent relationship between blood lipids and vitamin D levels in osteoporosis patients. While we cannot establish a causal relationship between the two, our findings suggest that vitamin D may have beneficial effects on both bone health and blood lipid levels, providing a reference for improved protection against cardiovascular disease in this population. Further research, particularly interventional studies, is needed to confirm these associations and investigate their underlying mechanisms.

Lipoprotein(A) serum concentrations in children are independent of age, sex, or body mass index

Lipoprotein(A) serum concentrations in children are independent of age, sex, or body mass index

Investigating the Relationships of Adipokines and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors with Normal-Weight Obesity Syndrome Among Women

Background: Normal weight obesity (NWO), known as a syndrome, is characterized by normal weight and body mass index (BMI) but high adipose tissue (more than 30%). Objectives: The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between adipokines and lipid factors as risk factors in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and NWO syndrome in women. Methods: In this case-control study, anthropometric data were obtained from 20 - 40-year-old women referring to nutrition and diet clinics in Ahvaz, Iran. Then, based on the inclusion criteria, including normal BMI and no physical or mental illness, the subjects were divided into the NWO (body fat percentage (BF%) &gt; 30) group and the non-NWO (BF% &lt; 30) group depending on their BF%. Twenty blood samples were taken from each group, and their chemerin and adipokine serum levels were measured using both the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method with high sensitivity and the sandwich and competitive ELISA techniques. Results: The serum levels of adipokine chemerin and IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), as well as the serum concentrations of triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol, were significantly higher in the NWO group than in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: The findings of this study indicated a significant correlation between chemerin, adipokines, and lipid factors, as CVD risk factors, and NWO syndrome and fat tissue percentages in women. Therefore, fat tissue measurement is recommended as a more accurate index than BMI in predicting CVDs.

Effects of increasing levels of lasalocid supplementation on growth performance, serum biochemistry, ruminal fermentation profile, in vitro nutrient digestibility, and gas production of growing goats.

Lasalocid is a feed additive widely used in ruminant nutrition and plays a crucial role in improving livestock productivity, digestibility, immunity, and overall wellbeing. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of lasalocid (LAS) supplementation on growth performance, serum biochemistry, ruminal fermentation profile, in vitro nutrient digestibility, and gas production of growing goats. A total of 60 growing Aardi male goats with an average body weight of ~17.12 kg (3-month-old) were used for an 84-day trial. Animals were randomly divided into four treatment groups with 5 replicates of 3 goats each. All four groups were provided with a basal diet supplemented with lasalocid (LAS) at 0 (without supplementation; LAS0), 10 (LAS10), 20 (LAS20), or 30 (LAS30) ppm LAS/kg dry matter (DM). Feed intake was measured weekly, and goats were weighed every 2 weeks for an evaluation of the performance parameters. Blood samples were collected for the measurement of biochemical variables. In vitro nutrient digestibility and gas production were evaluated. The supplementation of LAS at level 30 ppm/kg DM increased (P < 0.05) the body weight gain and average daily gain without linear or quadratic effect. The serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the LAS20 group than in other groups with linear and quadratic effects, while low-density lipoprotein concentration was significantly lower in the LAS20 group than in LAS0 and LAS30 with a linear effect. Different levels of lasalocid supplementation had no effect on the ruminal fermentation profile, in vitro gas production, and nutrient digestibility. In conclusion, the addition of LAS (20-30 ppm/kg DM) to the goat's diet can improve the growth performance and lipoprotein profile.

The inverse association between fasting blood glucose and the occurrence of gallbladder cancer in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a case-control study.

This study aimed to explore the correlation between diabetes mellitus (DM) and gallbladder cancer (GBC) in an epidemiological setting. The study summarized the clinical and laboratory data of 2210 GBC Chinese patients in the authors' hospital. A total of 17 influencing factors for GBC, including gender, body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FINS), the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), and lipid indexes were analyzed using unconditional logistic regression analysis. Based on the results of univariate logistic regression, the risk of GBC was significantly and positively correlated with serum triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, FINS, HOMA-IR, being female, BMI, DM, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and gallbladder stone disease (GSD), and significantly negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein and FBG concentrations in serum, as well as hypertension. According to multivariate analysis, FINS was significantly positively associated with GBC risk, while DM showed an insignificant negative association; FBG was also not important. The most significant independent factor of GBC risk in patients with DM was HOMA-IR. Fasting blood glucose levels showed a significant negative relationship with GBC in patients with DM. In addition, this study indicated a significantly negative association between serum RBP levels and GBC. The findings of the current study revealed that the efficient treatment of insulin resistance is an important approach for decreasing GBC risk, as opposed to lowering blood sugar only, particularly in patients with DM. Interestingly, FBG may have had an inverse association with the development of GBC in patients with type 2 DM. Of note, the study found that a dramatic initial drop in RBP may help predict the occurrence of GBC.