bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic effect of TC and PE mixtures on regulation of lipolysis in 3T3‐L1 cell differentiation
Authors: Park Soo‐Jeung , Lee Minhee , Kwon Han‐Ol , Kim Hyesook , Lee Dasom , Lee Jeongmin
Published: November 2023

Abnormal fat accumulation on the body causes chronic disease as obesity that is serious problem in present day society. We investigated the effect of TC and PE mixtures on 3T3‐L1 cell differentiation and expected that synergistic effect of both substance. We experimented 3T3‐L1 cell differentiation for 9 to 15 days. The last day of differentiation experiment, we measured adipogenesis factor, lipolysis factor and TG level through RT‐PCR, western blot and ELISA. The intracellular lipid droplets were dyed through the Oil red O staining. Glycerol release was measured during the experiment of 3T3‐L1 cell differentiation. These result suggest that TC and PE mixtures suppressed lipid accumulatioin and expression of adipogenic transcription factors. Also, TC and PE mixtures regulated lipolitic factors and increased the amount of glycerol release. In conclusion, TC and PE mixtures have regulatory ability of lipolysis on 3T3‐L1 cell differentiation and further studies in mouse models are required.

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lipolysis
Beet Juice Energy Drink Increases Nitric Oxide Bioavailability and Lowers Blood Pressure in Healthy Men
Authors: Sweazea Karen L , Johnston Carol S , Miller Brendan , Gumpricht Eric
Published: November 2023

The peripheral vasculature is important in the regulation of healthy blood pressure as endothelial cells are a source of a variety of vasoactive factors. One of the most important vasodilatory factors released from these cells is nitric oxide (NO). Production of NO is stimulated both through enzymatic‐dependent mechanisms via NO synthase as well as from dietary intake of nitrate‐containing foods or supplements such as beets or green leafy vegetables that increase NO bioavailability. Therefore, we hypothesized supplementation of a normal diet with daily consumption of a 2‐ounce beet juice energy drink (AMPED NOx; Isagenix International LLC) would increase plasma nitrates and affect cardiovascular parameters compared to a placebo drink (prune juice). Healthy male adults aged 18–40y were recruited to participate in this placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial as men have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease than pre‐menopausal women. Furthermore, women were excluded in the current study as fluctuations in progesterone are known to influence vascular reactivity. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, and fasting blood samples were collected and flow‐mediated vasodilation was measured at baseline and after one and two weeks of supplementation. Subjects also completed questionnaires on sleep quality and mood. No changes in sleep quality, mood or anthropometrics were detected following supplementation with AMPED NOx (n=24 subjects) compared to prune juice placebo (n=24 subjects). In contrast, compared to prune juice AMPED NOx significantly increased plasma nitrates and nitrites (p<0.001) while decreasing both systolic (p=0.015) and diastolic (p=0.015) blood pressures after two weeks of supplementation. There was a weak trend for AMPED NOx to increase FMD as compared to prune juice (p=0.086). The hypotensive effect of the supplement was surprising considering the average systolic and diastolic blood pressure at baseline (116±8 and 64±8 mmHg respectively). In summary, AMPED NOx is a good source of dietary nitrates and an effective strategy to lower blood pressure. Further studies are needed to determine effectiveness in a diseased population.

Support or Funding Information

Funding for the study was provided by Isagenix International, LLC.
Effect of Barley Sprout Water Extracts on Blood Flow Improvement in vitro
Authors: Lee Dasom , Kwon Han Ol , Lee Minhee , Park Soo‐jeung , Kim Hyesook , Kim Ki Man , Choi Byung‐kuk , Choi Dabin , Lee Jeongmin
Published: November 2023

Barley sprout (Hordeum rulgare L.) is believed to have effect of antioxidant, metabolism of lipid, anti‐cancer and depression of formation fatty liver. However, the benefits of the barley sprout to blood flow improvement have not been studied yet. The purpose of this study was to investigated the effect of barley sprout water extract efficacy of blood flow improvement in vitro of serotonin secretion, Thromboxane A2 secretion, platelet aggregation, activited partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, shear stress induced platelet aggreagation, and sgear stress induced micorvesicle generation. Serotonin secretion was significantly decreased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. Thromboxane A2 secretion from phospholipid membrane was significantly decreased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. Platelet aggreation was significantly decreased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. Activatied partial thromboplastin time in plasma was significantly increased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. Prothrombin time in plasma was non significantly. Shear stress induced platelet aggregation was significantly decreased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. Shear stress induced microvesicle generation in human erythrocytes were significantly decreased in the 400 μg/mL as compated with 0 μg/mL. In conclusion, these result suggest that Barley sprout water extracts 400 μg/mL administration ha ameliorated the blood flow.
Dietary Sphingomyelin Attenuates the Inflammatory Effects of an Obesogenic Diet in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Norris Gregory H , Porter Caitlin M , Jiang Christina , Millar Courtney L. , Blesso Christopher N
Published: November 2023

Obesity is associated with chronic low‐grade inflammation, characterized by long‐term activation of the innate immune system in a variety of metabolic tissues. Chronic low‐grade inflammation contributes to metabolic dysfunction, driving the associated health consequences of obesity. In rodent models, high fat diet‐induced obesity has been shown to promote inflammation in the distal intestinal tract and surrounding mesenteric adipose tissue. This localized inflammatory response of the intestinal tissues is thought to precede the systemic inflammation and insulin resistance seen with obesity. Finding dietary components that potentially ameliorate intestinal and mesenteric adipose inflammation may attenuate some detrimental effects of obesity. Sphingomyelin (SM) is a common dietary sphingolipid that is consumed predominantly from milk and eggs. Structurally diverse sphingolipids from various sources have shown anti‐inflammatory effects in multiple in vitro and in vivo models. In the current study, C57BL/6J mice (N = 52) were divided into 4 diet groups and fed for 10 weeks either a low fat control diet (10% kcal from fat) (LFD, n = 10), an obesogenic high fat, high cholesterol diet (60% kcal as fat, 0.15% added cholesterol) (HFD, n = 14), or the HFD supplemented with either 0.1% (w/w) egg‐derived SM (HFESM, n = 14) or bovine milk‐derived SM (HFMSM, n = 14). The mice were subsequently analyzed for circulating inflammatory cytokines, mesenteric adipose mRNA and colon mRNA. HFMSM significantly reduced several inflammatory cytokines in serum (IFNγ, IL‐6, TNFα and CCL2), while HFESM reduced circulating CCL2. HFMSM showed lower mRNA expression of macrophage markers in the colon (F4/80, CD68, and CD11c) and increased Glut4 expression in the mesenteric adipose. HFESM reduced markers of macrophages infiltration (CD68 and F4/80) and increased AdipoQ expression in the mesenteric adipose. In summary, this data suggests that dietary SM can partly attenuate obesity‐related inflammation and modulate macrophage markers in the colon and mesenteric adipose in high fat diet‐induced obese mice. More research is warranted to determine if the structurally distinct SM species from milk and egg function through different mechanisms.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the University of Connecticut.
Whey And Casein In Non‐Fat Dairy Milk Protect Against Postprandial Hyperglycemia‐Mediated Dysregulated Arginine Metabolism In Prediabetic Adults
Authors: McDonald Joshua D , Chitchumroonchokchai Chureeporn , Dey Priyankar , Volek Jeff S , Ballard Kevin D , Bruno Richard S
Published: November 2023

Greater intakes of dairy are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Ingestion of low‐fat milk compared with carbohydrate‐rich rice milk limits postprandial hyperglycemia (PPH), a predictor of CVD‐related mortality. We hypothesized that acute ingestion of dairy milk proteins would protect against PPH‐mediated increases in lipid peroxidation and dysregulated arginine metabolism. A randomized, cross‐over study was conducted in prediabetic adults (n = 23) who ingested isovolumetric beverages (473 mL) of glucose (75 g; GLU), or glucose with non‐fat milk (MILK), whey protein isolate (WHEY), or sodium caseinate (CASEIN; 16.5 g). Plasma glucose, insulin, malondialdehyde (MDA), arginine (ARG) and its related metabolites [asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA); symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), homoarginine (hARG)] that regulate nitric oxide (NO•) biosynthesis were measured to calculate postprandial AUC0–180 min. GlucoseAUC was lower (P<0.05) in MILK, WHEY, and CASEIN compared with GLU, whereas insulinAUC was unaffected (P>0.05). Compared with GLU, MDAAUC was lower in MILK only. Each dairy‐based beverage similarly increased ARGAUC while similarly decreasing ADMA/ARGAUC, SDMA/ARGAUC, and hARG/ARGAUC (P<0.01). GlucoseAUC correlated with MDAAUC (r = 0.36, P<0.01) and each correlated with ADMA/ARGAUC (r = 0.24–0.79 P<0.05) whereas only glucoseAUC correlated with SDMA/ARGAUC (r = 0.24, P<0.05). Whey and casein protect against PPH‐mediated dysregulated ARG metabolism independent of lipid peroxidation. These findings would be expected to decrease NO• bioavailability by competitively inhibiting NO• synthase and ARG availability, transport, and its binding to NO• synthase.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the National Dairy Council.
Brown and Paracardial Adipose Tissue Characteristics Influenced by High Fat, High Sucrose Diet and Thermoneutral Temperature in Pregnancy
Authors: Dellschaft Neele , Perez Gabriela , Aldiss Peter , Albustanji Layla , Budge Helen , Symonds Michael
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Transgenerational programming of obesity may play a significant role in the increase of childhood obesity. Brown fat, a thermogenic tissue abundant in early postnatal life that is retained into adulthood could be a target organ to prevent obesity due to its high energy expenditure. Brown fat is less abundant with obesity and its activation is reduced in a warm environment. It is not known how these factors interact during pregnancy.

Methods

Female rats were raised on a low fat (L) diet or a high fat, high sucrose diet (H) and housed at either a cool (20°C) or thermoneutral temperature (27°C) from 4 weeks of age, and 6 females of each group were tissue sampled at 10 weeks of age. The remaining females were mated and sampled at either 10d (mid‐gestation, n=6) or 19d gestation (late‐gestation, n=6). Analysis of the tissues collected for this study are ongoing. Gene expression and histological appearance of brown and white adipose tissues was determined.

Results

Animals fed the H diet had greater white fat mass, but a similar body weight than those fed L, irrespective of rearing temperature. Brown fat mass was higher in H females at 20°C at all time points but diet made no difference at thermoneutrality. Whilst leptin expression in brown fat was not changed in unmated females, it was higher in both groups of females at 27°C at 10d gestation, but only raised in H dams at 27°C at 19d gestation, suggesting a ‘whitening’ of the tissue, although UCP1 expression was unchanged at any time point.

Paracardial adipose tissue mass in non‐pregnant females followed a similar pattern to the other adipose tissues. Both diet and temperature had a significant impact on histological appearance (Figure below), suggesting a stronger thermogenic capacity when reared in a cool temperature and fed an L diet.

Conclusions

Diet has a strong influence on body composition which is modulated by housing temperature. We now aim to demonstrate the interaction of environmental temperature with excess fat mass on beige fat thermogenic capacity through pregnancy as well as fetal adaptations to these challenges.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by a EU‐CASCADE fellowship.
Tart Cherry Juice Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure in Older Adults
Authors: Chai Sheau C , Davis Kristina , Wright Regina S , Kuczmarski Marie F , Zhang Zugui , Lee Krystal , Luo Jing
Published: November 2023

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Common treatments for high blood pressure (BP) and dyslipidemia include medications, but there is question as to whether natural sources may be adequate to improve CVD risk factors. Studies have suggested that age‐associated cardiovascular conditions may be ameliorated by the antioxidants in tart cherry juice. Hence, a randomized placebo‐controlled trial was conducted to evaluate whether older adults consuming 16 fluid ounces (fl. oz) of tart cherry juice daily would reduce CVD risk factors including lipid profiles, glucose, BP, body weight and waist circumference when compared to a group consuming 16 fl. oz. of placebo daily for 12 weeks. Thirty‐seven (N=37) generally healthy older adults between the ages of 65–80 years were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to the tart cherry group or placebo group and were blinded to their group assignment. Fasting blood samples, BP and waist circumference data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks. Dietary intake and physical activity were also assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using a nonparametric one‐way ANOVA with Wilcoxon in SAS Version 9.2. Our findings indicate that older adults who consumed 16 fl. oz. tart cherry juice for 12 weeks had significantly lower systolic BP compared to individuals who consumed placebo (P<0.0089). Lipid profiles were not altered by tart cherry juice or placebo. Daily consumption of tart cherry juice does not negatively impact body weight and blood glucose. In conclusion, daily incorporation of tart cherry juice into the diet reduced systolic BP in older adults and could be a plausible intervention for improved cardiovascular health in older adults.

Support or Funding Information

Cherry Marketing Institute
The Antioxidant Activity of Pistachios Reduces Cardiac Tissue Injury of Acute Ischemia/Reperfusion (I/R) In Diabetic Streptozotocin (STZ)‐Induced Hyperglycaemic Rats
Authors: Di Paola Rosanna , Fusco Roberta , Gugliandolo Enrico , Campolo Michela , Carughi Arianna , Mandalari Guiseppina , Cuzzocrea Salvatore
Published: November 2023

Diabetes mellitus represents one of the most important risk factors for the development of heart pathology. By itself it represents a source of vascular and heart dysfunction through formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and can compromise the recovery from cardiovascular diseases. Myocardial infarction is the leading cause of death occurring after prolonged ischemia of the coronary arteries. Restoring blood flow is the first intervention after a heart attack, although the process of restoring blood flow to the ischemic myocardium could induce additional injury. This phenomenon, termed myocardial ischemia‐reperfusion (MI‐R) injury, is characterized by the formation of oxygen radicals. Pistachios are excellent sources of antioxidants, such as lutein, β‐carotene, and γ‐tocopherol in addition to selenium, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins. Pistachios have important glucose‐ and insulin‐lowering effects and can improve the inflammatory profile by downregulating both the expression and the circulating levels of several metabolic risk markers.

The present study evaluates the antioxidant properties of pistachios treatment on the inflammatory process associated to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) in diabetic rats.

Left anterior descending (LAD) ligation has been used to induced MI‐R injury in diabetic rats. Occlusion of coronary artery was prolonged for 30 min followed by 2 h reperfusion. Rats were pre‐treated with either raw or roasted salted pistachios (30 mg/kg) 18h prior to the experimental procedure.

Here we demonstrated that treatment with raw pistachios reduced myocardial tissue injury (I/R 3.5±0.3 vs raw pistachios 2.0±0.2 p ≤0.05), neutrophil infiltration (I/R 35.0±3.0 vs raw pistachios 22.0±2.0 p ≤0.05), adhesion molecules (ICAM‐1, (I/R 7.0±0.3 vs raw pistachios 3.0±0.2 p ≤0.05) P‐selectin (I/R 5.0±0.1 vs raw pistachios 2.0±0.1 p ≤0.05)) expression, pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, I/R 11.0±2.0 vs raw pistachios 4.0±0.2 p ≤0.05)IL‐1β (I/R 12.0±0.2 vs raw pistachios 6±0.2 p ≤0.05)) production, nitrotyrosine and PAR formation, NF‐kB expression (I/R 23361.6 ± 3656.0 vs raw pistachios 1911.95 ± 770.0 p ≤0.05)) and apoptosis (Bax, (I/R 29235.2 ± 3394.0 vs raw pistachios 2301.37 ± 869.1 p ≤0.05)) Bcl‐2) activation. The effect of raw pistachios was higher compared with roasted pistachios.

This data have clearly showed a modulation of the inflammatory process, associated with MI‐R injury, following administration of pistachios.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by the American Pistachio Growers (CA, US).
Anti‐atherogenic Effect of T0901317 Nanovesicles in THP‐1 Derived Macrophages
Authors: LIU JIE , Li Chuan , Wang Shu
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Intimal macrophages are determinant cells in the atherosclerotic lesion formation by facilitating cholesterol accumulation and increasing the inflammatory response in blood vessel walls. T0901317 can prevent and dramatically regress atherosclerosis by increasing cholesterol efflux and inhibiting inflammatory response via activating macrophage liver X receptors (LXR) . However its side effects including hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic steatosis hinder its application in clinics. We have successfully made T0901317 encapsulated nanovesicles (Tnano) and ligand‐incorporated Tnano (LTnano). Nanovesicles without T0901317 is Vnano, ligand Vnano is LVnano. This target ligand has a high binding affinity to macrophage scavenger receptor CD36. The object of the project is to investigate the anti‐atherogenic effect of LTnano in macrophages.

Methods

We used THP‐1 derived macrophages in this study. CD36 siRNA and Lipofectamine® RNAiMAX Transfection Reagent were used to knock down the CD36 in these macrophages. Scrambled SiRNA were used as a control. Fluorescence 1‐Oleoyl‐2‐[12‐[(7‐nitro‐2‐1,3‐benzoxadiazol‐4‐yl)amino]dodecanoyl]‐sn‐Glycero‐3‐Phosphocholine (NBD) were used to label all nanovesicles. THP‐1 derived macrophages and CD36 knockdown macrophages were treated with NBD‐labeled nanovesicles at 37 °C for 2 hours. After washing, cell nuclei were stained with 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI). Macrophage binding and uptake of nanovesicles were observed under an EVOS® fluorescence microscope. To investigate the cholesterol lowering effect, THP‐1 derived macrophages were treated with Tnano, LTnano, free T0901317 at 1μM and controls (Vnano, LVnano, PBS). Total cholesterol and free cholesterol were measured using a HPLC method. Cholesterol ester was calculated as the difference between total and free cholesterol. Gene expression of scavenger receptors and some cytokines were measured using real time PCR.

Results

LTnano had a higher binding affinity to macrophages than Tnano. CD36 knockdown diminished LTnano binding to and uptake by macrophages. LTnano also decreased macrophage total and free cholesterol content compare to free T0901317 or Tnano. LTnano increased the mRNA levels of ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily A Member 1 and ATP‐binding cassette sub‐family G member 1 . Expression of LXR, tumor necrosis factor alpha, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and interleukin 6, macrophage scavenger receptor 1, scavenger receptor class B member 1, CD36 will be determined.

Conclusions

LTnano targeted macrophages via their CD36 binding sites. LTnano decreased macrophage total and free cholesterol content, which correlated with increased expression of ABCA1 and ABCG1. Additional anti‐atherogenic mechanisms are under investigation.

Support or Funding Information

Grant Funding Source: NIH 1R15AT007013‐01
8‐Prenylgenistein, a prenylated genistein derivative, exerted tissue selective osteoprotective effects in ovariectomized mice
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Xiaoli , Wang Yongjun , Wong Man‐Sau
Published: November 2023

Our previous studies reported that the in vitro osteogenic effects of 8‐prenylgenistein (8PG) were more potent than its parent compound genistein in osteoblastic UMR 106 cell. This study aimed to study the in vivo osteoprotective effects of 8PG in ovariectomized (OVX) mice as well as to characterize its estrogenic effects in uterus. Mature OVX C57BL/6J mice were treated with phytoestrogen‐free AIN‐93M diet containing 8PG (300 & 600 ppm) or genistein (300 ppm) for 7 weeks. Trabecular bone properties, mRNA and protein expression in bone and uterus were determined. The potential estrogenic effects in uterus and endometrial Ishikawa cells were evaluated. Trabecular bone mass and most of the micro‐structural parameters were significantly ameliorated at the distal metaphysis of femur in OVX mice upon treatment with genistein and both doses of 8PG. The beneficial effects of 8PG on trabecular bone and articular chondrocytes in OVX mice were confirmed by safranin O and ABHO staining and the 3D micro‐CT image. 8PG markedly inhibited the OVX‐induced mRNA expressions of RANKL/OPG, ALP, type 1 collagen, osteocalcin, cathepsin K and estrogen receptor alpha (ER‐α) in bone. In contrast, genistein further increased the OVX‐induced ER‐α expression in bone. The uterus index was increased in genistein‐treated group, but not in 8PG‐treated groups. Genistein up‐regulated the expression of ER‐α and PR, while 8PG significantly down‐regulated the ER‐α and C3 expression in the uterus of OVX mice. Moreover, genistein, but not 8PG, increased expressions of ER‐α and PCNA in Ishikawa cell. Competitive binding assay showed that the ability of genistein and 8PG to bind ER‐α were comparable, while the binding affinity of 8PG to ER‐β was higher than that of genistein. 8PG improved trabecular bone properties in OVX mice without exerting uterotrophic effects and its estrogenic actions were distinct from those of genistein.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the Project of National Basic Research Program in China (973 Plan, 2010CB530400), Shenzhen Basic Research Program [JCYJ20140819153305696, JCYJ20140819153305697], Innovative Research Team in University (PCSIRT, IRT1270), the National Natural Science foundation of major international cooperation projects (81220108027 & 81220108028), Longyi Innovation Team Program (LYCX‐01) as well as research support of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (IBBAB).
Age and Metabolic Fuel Preference Impact Proliferative Capacity of Human Myogenic Progenitor Cells
Authors: Riddle Emily S , Roman Heather A , Thalacker‐Mercer Anna E
Published: November 2023

Background

In response to injury, older skeletal muscle demonstrates an impaired regenerative response characterized by dysregulation of inflammation, protein degradation, cell growth and proliferation, and stress transcripts. Further, in vitro myogenic progenitor cells (MPCs) from older donors have reduced proliferative capacity; however, the underlying etiology and mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Recognizing that metabolic fuel preference impacts proliferative capacity of cells and muscle becomes metabolically inflexible with age, we hypothesized that fuel preference would impact MPC proliferative capacity in older cells.

Objective

The objective was to characterize metabolic gene expression and signaling throughout human MPC proliferation and identify age differences that might impact proliferative capacity.

Methods

Primary human muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) were obtained from the vastus lateralis muscle of young males (YM‐MPC, n=6), old males (OM‐MPC, n=3), young females (YF‐MPC, n=6), and old females (OF‐MPC, n=6). Cells were cultured in Ham's F12 supplemented with 20% FBS and bFGF throughout proliferation. A high‐throughput imaging cytometer was used to determine % confluency, nuclei count, and % of dead cells every 24 hours. Saturation density was defined as the # nuclei at proliferation plateau/ cm2. Cultured MPCs were also harvested at two time points during proliferation: the first and third day out of lag. The first day out of lag was defined as the first increase in % confluency of ≥ 5%. Real time qPCR was used to measure mRNA abundance of select genes associated with nutrient transport, mitochondrial biogenesis, inflammation, and stress in cultured MPCs.

Results

In MPCs from males, % confluency, saturation density, and CAT‐1 mRNA levels were lower in OM‐MPC than YM‐MPC. PGC1‐α and IL6 mRNA levels were higher in OM‐MPC, and the % of dead cells was greater compared to YM‐MPC. % of dead cells decreased over time in both OM‐MPC and YM‐MPC. In female MPCs, % confluency, saturation density, and NFkB and GLUT1 mRNA levels were lower in OF‐MPC compared to YF‐MPC. % of dead cells was higher in OF‐MPC compared to YF‐MPC but decreased with time in all female MPCs. PGC1‐α and CD36 mRNA levels were higher in OF‐MPC, but increased with time in all female MPCs. CAT‐1 and CAT‐2 decreased over time in proliferating female MPCs, independent of age.

Conclusions

Older MPCs were slower to proliferate, experienced heightened cell death throughout proliferation, and reached lower saturation densities in both sexes. Interestingly, PGC1‐α mRNA was greater in both OF‐ and OM‐MPCs compared to their young counterpart. Differential expression of genes related to nutrient uptake and metabolism suggest that older MPCs have altered fuel preference that may impair proliferative capacity.

Support or Funding Information

Cornell University
SLC30A and SLC39A Family Members are targeted by MicroRNAs that also target genes within the Transforming Growth Factor‐β Signaling Pathway
Authors: Grider Arthur
Published: November 2023

Zinc is essential for normal growth and development in humans; and deficiency causes impaired growth. The SLC30A (cation diffusion; ZNT) and SLC39A (zrt/irt‐like proteins; ZIP) gene families encode zinc transporters necessary for maintaining cellular zinc homeostasis. ZNT gene products transport zinc out of the cytosol while the ZIP gene products transport zinc into the cytosol. Hence, they are responsible for cellular zinc uptake or secretion, and intracellular compartmentalization. The Transforming Growth Factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling pathway is involved in numerous cellular processes, including bone development and osteoblast differentiation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether microRNAs (miRNA) that are predicted to target the zinc transporter genes (SLC30A contains 10 members; SLC39A contains 14 members) also target genes within the TGF‐β signaling pathway. Each zinc transporter gene member was used to query the miRDB.org database to identify miRNAs predicted to target them. Those miRNAs which exhibited target prediction scores ≥81 were then used to query the DIANA TOOLS mirPath v.3 database to identify the genes that they are predicted to target within the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) hsa04350 TGF‐β signaling pathway. At total of 366 miRNAs are predicted to target 23 of the 24 Zn transporter mRNAs (there are six miRNAs that are predicted to target SLC39A4 (ZIP4) mRNA, however the target prediction scores range from 76 to 52; SLC39A4 was excluded from further analyses). There were 7 zinc transporter genes that were predicted to be targets for 20 or more miRNAs (SLC30A: ZNT4, ZNT5, ZNT7; SLC39A: ZIP8, ZIP9, ZIP10, ZIP14). ZNT5 and ZIP9 were predicted to be targeted by 55 and 52 miRNAs, respectively. A total of 2048 mRNA targets are contained within 76 TGF‐β signaling pathway genes. 37 genes are targeted by 20 or more miRNAs; 25 genes are targeted by 30 or more miRNAs; 18 genes are targeted by 30 or more miRNAs. There were two genes within the TGF‐β signaling pathway that were predicted to be targets for more than 100 miRNAs, activin receptor type 2B and bone morphogenetic protein receptor type II. The results indicate that there is significant overlap between the miRNAs that target the members of the zinc transporter gene families and those that target genes within the TGF‐β signaling pathway.

Support or Funding Information

USDA NIFA Hatch GEO00794
Effects of Shiikuwasha extract supplementation on muscle protein synthesis in the rat model of insulin resistance
Authors: Narita Kazusa , Maeda Naho , Okamoto Tomoyuki , Sakata Yasuyuki , Oshio Kazutaka , Nakamura Hirohiko , Iwamoto Hiroshi , Namba Kazuyoshi , Takeda Yasuhiro , Yoshizawa Fumiaki
Published: November 2023

The loss of skeletal muscle mass with aging, referred to as sarcopenia, is a significant problem that has serious implications on the quality of life of the elderly, especially in an aging society such as Japan. The etiology of skeletal muscle atrophy is reported to be multifaceted and involve insulin resistance. Recently, we reported that Shiikuwasha (Citrus depressa) extract as an inhibitory effect on dexamethasone‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy. The aim of this study was to examine whether supplementation with Shiikuwasha extract has an inhibitory effect on loss of skeletal muscle mass caused by insulin resistance in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats.

Male ZDF rats were assigned to three groups: (1) lean control (LC), (2) diabetic control (DC), (3) Shiikuwasha extract supplementation (SE). LC and DC animals received an AIN‐93G diet, whereas SE animals were maintained on a diet containing 1% (w/w) SE for 2 weeks.

As skeletal muscle mass was assessed, significant decrease was observed in the mass of the gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, tibialis anterior, and extensor digitorum longus muscles in the DC group compared to that in the LC group. By contrast, the SE group exhibited significant increases in all the skeletal muscles except the soleus muscle. There was no significant increase in the phosphorylation states of p70 S6 kinase and 4E‐BP1 in the SE group. However, the SE group showed higher mRNA expression level of IGF‐1 than the DC group. Moreover, the levels of blood HbA1c and plasma insulin were lower in the SE group than in the DC group.

Our data show that Shiikuwasha extract supplementation may ameliorate loss of skeletal muscle mass associated with insulin resistance. This mechanism might depend on the improvement of insulin sensitivity and partially, on the activation of protein synthesis.
The exercise intervention may influence the dietary intake and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and sarcopenia in menopausal women
Authors: YANG PINCHUN , Chen Chihhwa , Chiou Hung‐Yi , Li Yu‐Ling , Hsu Guoo‐Shyng Wang
Published: November 2023

Middle‐aged and elderly people usually have certain aspects of physical deterioration, such as muscle and bone losses which lead to fall easily, and increased the risk of fractures. Menopausal women with reduced estrogen secretion are more prone to bone loss than men in the same age. Meanwhile, deficit in dietary intake of bone and muscle health related nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D and protein, in addition to low physical activities may change bone and muscle metabolism. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the effects of exercise intervention and nutritional status on the muscle mass, muscle strength, body mass index (BMI), and muscle mass index (MMI). Twenty menopause women averaged 58 year old were recruited in this study to measure the bone mass density by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) and body composition analysis (BIA), Meanwhile, food record (FR), food‐frequency questionnaire (FFQ), physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) were collected. Subjects participated in the sport class, a 90 minutes per week. In the end of this 3‐month period, muscle test, FR, BIA, FFQ and IPAQ were recorded. The results indicated that the exercise intervention could improve part of muscle strength and increase the walking speed of the subjects. Moreover, the intakes of calories, protein, fat and phosphorus were significantly lower than baseline (P<0.05). However, energy from carbohydrate is significantly higher compared with baseline. The intake of calcium, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin C in subjects were lower than 2/3 DRIs. In addition, the subjects' BMD were associated with the limbs muscle strength (p<0.05). Moreover, the daily steps in osteoporosis group were significantly lower than osteopenia and normal groups. In addition, dietary intake wasn't significantly correlated to BMD, muscle mass, daily steps and physical activity. In conclusion, the menopausal women may improve the muscle strength and physical activities levels by the exercise intervention for reducing the osteoporotic and sarcopenic risk.

Support or Funding Information

The Wang Jhan‐Yang Public Charitable Trust Fund, The Taiwanese Osteoporosis Association, Taipei Medical University, and Fu Jen Catholic University
Elevation of Cecal IgA Concentration by Fructooligosaccharide Ingestion Is Associated with Immunological and Inflammatory Responses in Rats
Authors: Genda Tomomi , Kondo Takashi , Hino Shingo , Morita Tatsuya
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Previous studies have suggested that fructooligosaccharides (FOS) induce a transient increase of luminal IgA secretion related to the proliferation of lactic acid bacteria. Some clinical and animal studies, however, indicated a possible relevance of a mild inflammation with the FOS effect on luminal IgA. The present study aimed to scrutinize this inflammation hypothesis.

Materials & Methods

Rats were fed a purified diet (control), control + 5% cellulose (CEL), or a commercial crude diet with or without 6% FOS supplementation for 7 days. Besides immunological and microbial fermentation parameters, determinations of gut permeability as assessed by urinary Cr‐EDTA excretion, bacterial translocation into the mesenteric lymph nodes (BT‐MLN), and myeloperoxidase activity in the cecal tissue (MPO) were paralleled.

Results and Findings

At day 7, FOS supplementation to the control diet resulted in a 15‐fold increase in the cecal IgA concentrations accompanied by significant increases in IgA plasma cells (x 1.5) and gene expressions of IFN‐r (x 3) and polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR, × 2) in the cecal mucosa. Simultaneously, FOS significantly increased gut permeability (x 3), BT‐MLN, and MPO (x 3). FOS supplementation to the CEL diet also showed significant increases in the IgA concentrations and the other parameters, but all of these were considerably weakened. FOS supplementation to the crude diet did not show any immunological and inflammatory changes. Even at day 3, FOS supplementation to the control diet increased the cecal IgA concentrations (x8) with significant increases in pIgR expressions but not IgA plasma cells. Collectively, FOS‐induced Th‐1 response followed by the up‐regulation of pIgR is supposed to be responsible for the elevated IgA concentrations.

Conclusion

The FOS‐induced early elevation of cecal IgA is associated with a subtle (physiological) inflammation, probably due to the cecal fermentation imbalance characterized by an accumulation of lactate and extremely lower pH.
Broiler Chickens Express High‐Affinity and Gradient Alkaline Phosphatase Activity along the Intestinal Longitudinal Axis
Authors: Zhou Kevin , Burello Nicole A , Wang Weijun , Archbold Tania , Leung Haley , Kiarie Elijah , Fan Ming Z
Published: November 2023

Broiler chickens have been increasingly bred to grow fast and reach their market body weight within 6 to 7 weeks of age. Alkaline phosphatases (AP) have a key role in dephosphorylating endotoxin lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and other emblematic members of pathogen‐associated‐molecular patterns (PAMPs) such as ATP, thus preventing gut dysbiosis and disorders. However, roles of AP in maintaining gut health in young broiler chickens remain to be elucidated. This study was carried out to determine AP activity kinetics in the duodenal, jejunal, and ileal segments of young broiler at pH 7.4 and 41°C by using the chromogenic synthetic substrate P‐nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP). Ten 28‐d old broiler (Ross 708) chickens that have been maintained on a standard grower corn soybean meal diet were euthanized for collecting duodenum, jejunum and ileum tissue samples. The pNPP kinetic experiments were conducted with 16 gradient concentrations of pNPP, ranging 0 – 6 mM in incubation media. All enzymatic incubations were conducted with about 16 μg protein of the homogenized small intestinal segmental tissues. The kinetics (parameter estimates ± SE, P < 0.05) of the broiler small intestinal segmental AP activities of hydrolyzing pNPP were obtained, including Vmax values (μmol/mg protein·min, n = 80) of 0.419 ± 0.020, 0.196 ± 0.008, and 0.076 ± 0.003; and Km values (uM, n = 80) of 9.6 ± 5.2, 11.8 ± 5.2, and 38.1 ± 10.0 in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, respectively. Pooled t‐test showed that the Vmax was higher (P < 0.05) in the duodenum than in the jejunum by 1.1‐fold, and than in the ileum by 4.5‐fold, respectively while the Vmax value was higher (P < 0.05) in the jejunum than in the ileum by 1.6‐fold. Whereas the Km value was lower (P < 0.05) in the duodenum than in the jejunum by 19%, and than in the ileum by 75%, respectively while the Km value was lower (P < 0.05) in the jejunum than in the ileum by 69%. Our results reveal that young broiler chickens express a very high‐affinity duodenal AP isomer with several times of higher enzyme affinity when compared with reported bovine, human and porcine intestinal AP hydrolyzing pNPP. Results of this study show that young broiler chickens express a declining pattern of gradient maximal AP enzyme activity and enzyme affinity from the duodenum to the ileum along the small intestinal longitudinal axis when using the chromogenic substrate pNPP for representing the generic emblematic PAMPs members.

Support or Funding Information

NSERC Discovery Program of Canada and Metagen Enzyme Corporation
Maternal high fat diet alters offspring susceptibility to DSS‐induced colitis
Authors: Bibi Shima , Kang Yifei , Du Min , Zhu Mei‐Jun
Published: November 2023

Objective

Maternal high fat diet (HFD) may alter the offspring intestinal immune system thereby enhancing susceptibility towards inflammatory bowel disease. The objective of the current study was to investigate the impact of maternal HFD on offspring intestinal health using a mouse model of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced colitis.

Methods

Dams were provided with either 60% HFD or control diet. After weaning female offspring from both groups were kept on 45% HFD. At 12‐weeks old, offspring were challenged to 2.5% DSS in drinking water for 5 days, followed by 5 days of recovery.

Results

Offspring from maternal HFD had higher body weight gain before DSS‐induction, higher liver and fat weights with increased adipocyte size at necropsy. When subjected to DSS‐treatment, HFD offspring had accelerated body weight loss and exaggerated disease activity index, accompanied with increased histopathological scores and up‐regulated pro‐inflammatory cytokine production and NF‐κB signaling. Concomitantly, maternal HFD resulted in enhanced neutrophil infiltration associated with elevated expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1. Furthermore, maternal HFD suppressed AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity, and decreased sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and p53 protein contents in offspring gut.

Conclusion

Maternal HFD consumption predisposes offspring to develop inflammatory bowel disease (NIH R15HD073864).
What's in Your Fiber Supplement? Using the Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) to Evaluate Your Fiber Supplement
Authors: Emenaker Nancy J. , Sorkin Barbara C. , Dwyer Johanna , Saldanha Leilia , Rodriguez Luz M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Dietary fibers promote gut health and reducerisk for diseases, including cancer. Few Americans consume enough high fiberfoods to meet their requirements without consuming fiber‐containing dietary supplements (FCDS). Differing fibers may exert differing effects on health and disease risk. Fermentability of these fiber components may also influence microbial GI composition. Greater understanding of the fiber constituents found in commonly consumed FCDS are needed to enable consumers and health care professionals to make better health promotion choices.

Objective

To describe fiber constituents in FCDS currently marketed in the U.S.

Method

We searched the dietary supplement label database (DSLD) using the American Association of Cereal Chemists definition of dietary fiber constituents and their sub‐classifications as ingredients for FCDS. The fiber constituent threshold for inclusion was FCDS containing ≥ 0.1g fiber per serving.

Results

DSLD yielded over 4,300 FCDS products. Pectins were the most common fiber constituent occurring in 289 products, followed by gums (203 products). Polyfructose and hemicellulose were absent from FCDS, but inulin and arabinogalactans were found in 94 and 67 products, respectively. Only 30 products contained cellulose; fewer FCDS contained mucilages (8 products) or galactooligosaccharides (3 products). No FCDS products marketed in the U.S. contained oligiofructans or arabinoxylans as a fiber constituent. These data suggest non‐starch based polysaccharides and resistant oligosaccharides comprisea smaller than expected share of the FCDS sold in the U.S.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest DS manufacturers may rely more heavily on carbohydrates structurally analogous to dietary fibers found in nature fiber constituents for FCDS sold in the U.S.

Support or Funding Information

DSLD is supported by the Office of Dietary Supplements, and National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
Dietary pea protects against DSS‐induced colitis in mice fed high fat diet
Authors: Zhu Meijun , Bibi Shima , Moraes Luís Fernando Sousa , Lebow Noelle , Du Min
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Obesity is the root cause of a variety of chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases including heart disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Pea is unique with its high contents of dietary fibers, polyphenolics and glycoproteins, all of which are known to be beneficial to health. The objective of study was to investigate the impact of green pea supplementation on the susceptibility of high fat diet (HFD) fed mice to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced colitis.

Methods

Six‐week‐old wild‐type male mice were fed with a 45% HFD supplemented with green pea (0 or 10% of dry feed weight) for 7‐weeks, when mice were subjected to 2.5% DSS treatment to induce colitis. The disease symptoms were monitored on daily basis throughout the DSS‐treatment and recovery period. Colonic tissues and fecal sample were collected for analysis.

Results

Pea supplementation had no effect on body weight gain and feed intake in mice before DSS treatment and disease symptoms during DSS treatment. However, during the recovery stage, pea supplementation ameliorated body weight loss, fecal breeding and disease activity index in HFD mice. Concomitantly, dietary pea reduced neutrophil infiltration in colonic tissue of HFD mice, increased fecal short chain fatty acids content, major gut microbiota metabolites. Additionally, supplementation of pea soluble extract in culture medium promoted the growth of beneficial Lactobacillus plantarum, which might partially explain the protective role of pea on DSS‐induced colitis in HFD mice.

Conclusion

Pea supplementation ameliorated colitis symptom in DSS induced colitis of HFD fed mice. (American Pulse Association)
Digestion‐Resistant Dextrin Derivatives Are Moderately Digested in The Small Intestine and Contribute More to Energy Production Than Predicted from Large Bowel Fermentation in Rats
Authors: Kondo Takashi , Genda Tomomi , Hino Shingo , Hamaguchi Norihisa , Morita Tatsuya
Published: November 2023

Background

Digestion‐resistant dextrin derivatives (DRDDs) including resistant maltodextrin (RM), polydextrose (PD) and resistant glucan (RG) have been developed as low energy foods. However, attempts to quantify the in vivo small intestinal resistance of DRDDs are scarce.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the site and the extent of DRDD breakdown in the rat intestine and to predict their contribution to energy production.

Methods

In vitro small intestinal resistance of DRDDs was evaluated by the two methods, i.e., AOAC method for dietary fiber measurement, and artificial digestion method using a pancreatic a‐amylase and brush boarder membrane vesicles. In vivo small intestinal resistance of DRDDs was determined from feces in Sprague‐Dawley ileorectostomized rats (males aged 7 wk) fed a diet including RM, PD or RG at 50 g/ kg for 9 d (period 1) and then for 10 d (period 2), during which time they received neomycin (1 g/L) in their drinking water. Separately, Sprague‐Dawley normal rats (males aged 9 wk) were fed the same diets for 4 wk, and the whole‐gut recoveries of DRDDs were determined from feces at d8–10.

Results

The in vitro small intestinal resistance with the artificial digestion (RM, 70%; PD, 67%; RG, 69%) was lower than those with AOAC method (RM, 92%; PD, 80%; RG, 82%). In vivo small intestinal resistance of DRDDs was RM (68%), PD (58%) and RG (62%) in the period 1, and RM (66%), PD (61%) and RG (67%) in the period 2. Digestion resistance among DRDDs was comparable in either period. The whole‐gut recovery of RM (13%) was lower than that of PD (33%) or RG (29%).

Conclusions

DRDDs were more digestible in the rat small intestine than in vitro prediction by AOAC method. The energy contribution from small intestine digestibility, not just large bowel fermentability, must be considered in determining the energy contribution of DRDDs. However, the findings need to be replicated in humans.
Compromised Nutritional Status of Adults with Celiac Disease on a Gluten Free Diet: The Case of Lebanon
Authors: Bassil Maya , Hassan Hussein
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Investigating the nutritional status of individuals with Celiac Disease (CD) in the Middle East is warranted. Reasons for this include the reported disease prevalence, poor public awareness about CD, and lack of food regulations for the production and inspection of gluten‐free labelled products.

Objectives

To assess the dietary intake and body composition including bone mineral density (BMD) of Lebanese adults with CD following a gluten‐free diet (GFD).

Methods

We conducted a case‐control study, whereby two healthy control adults were matched for age and sex with each CD subject. A preliminary sample of 19 adults with CD (age = 30 ± 3 years; 58 % females) and 32 control subjects (age = 27 ± 2 years; 50 % females) were recruited. Weight and height were measured using standard procedure. Body composition including body fat, lean body mass and bone mineral content and density (total body, hip and spine) were assessed using dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA, Prodigy, GE Healthcare). To assess dietary intake, three‐day food records were collected and analysed using Nutritionist Pro software (version 3.2, AXXYA).

Results

Subjects with CD had significantly (p < 0.05) lower weight, Body Mass Index (BMI) and fat mass (63.3 ± 3.0 Kg; 22.2 ± 0.8 Kg/m2; 17.8±2.0 Kg, respectively) compared to controls (25.7 ± 0.7 Kg; 25.7 ± 0.7 Kg/m2, 24.7 ± 1.9 Kg, respectively). Total body and spine (L1–14) BMD of CD subjects were 14 % and 6 % lower than those of controls (p < 0.05). Dietary assessment revealed significantly lower thiamin and folate intake among subjects with CD.

Conclusions

In line with the literature, Lebanese adults with CD have significantly lower BMI, fat mass and BMD compared to controls, while their diet is low in thiamine and folate. These results could be due to the inherent poor quality of GFD, lack of awareness about disease management and potential gluten contamination in their diet due to the absent food regulations for gluten‐free products in Lebanon. These findings thus highlight the need for further investigations on this matter to eventually guide public policy development.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by the Lebanese American University, Department of Natural Sciences