Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (polyunsaturated + fatty_acid)

Distribution by Scientific Domains


Selected Abstracts


,-6 Polyunsaturated fatty acid ,-linolenic acid (18:3n-6) is a selective estrogen-response modulator in human breast cancer cells: ,-Linolenic acid antagonizes estrogen receptor-dependent transcriptional activity, transcriptionally represses estrogen receptor expression and synergistically enhances tamoxifen and ICI 182,780 (Faslodex) efficacy in human breast cancer cells

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 6 2004
Javier A. Menendez
First page of article [source]


Dietary myo -inositol requirement for Olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus (Temminch et Schlegel)

AQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 1 2008
Bong-Joo Lee
Abstract This study was aimed at examining the essentiality and requirement of inositol for Olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus. Six casein,gelatin-based semi-purified diets were formulated to contain five different levels of myo -inositol (MI) (designated as M0, M0+, M200, M400, M800 and M1600 for 0, 0+antibiotic, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 mg kg,1 respectively). After 20 weeks of a long-term feeding trial, fish (initial body weight, 10 g) fed the M800 diet showed significantly increased growth performances and survival. Liver lipid concentration tended to decrease as the dietary MI increased, although there was no significant difference among all treatments. Polyunsaturated fatty acid in the liver of the fish fed the diets containing high levels (M1600) of MI was significantly increased. Hepatic inositol concentration of the fish was significantly increased by dietary MI supplementation. The intestinal biosynthesis of inositol by microflora seemed to be insufficient to prevent growth retardation in juvenile Olive flounder. The optimum level of dietary MI for juvenile Olive flounder was found to be 617 mg kg,1 based on weight gain in a broken-line regression model. This finding indicates that MI supplementation is required at a concentration of at least 617 mg kg,1 to maximize the growth performances and to prevent abnormal lipid metabolism. [source]


Effects of dietary fatty acids on insulin sensitivity and secretion

DIABETES OBESITY & METABOLISM, Issue 6 2004
Melania Manco
Globalization and global market have contributed to increased consumption of high-fat, energy-dense diets, particularly rich in saturated fatty acids( SFAs). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) regulate fuel partitioning within the cells by inducing their own oxidation through the reduction of lipogenic gene expression and the enhancement of the expression of those genes controlling lipid oxidation and thermogenesis. Moreover, PUFAs prevent insulin resistance by increasing membrane fluidity and GLUT4 transport. In contrast, SFAs are stored in non-adipocyte cells as triglycerides (TG) leading to cellular damage as a sequence of their lipotoxicity. Triglyceride accumulation in skeletal muscle cells (IMTG) derives from increased FA uptake coupled with deficient FA oxidation. High levels of circulating FAs enhance the expression of FA translocase the FA transport proteins within the myocites. The biochemical mechanisms responsible for lower fatty acid oxidation involve reduced carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT) activity, as a likely consequence of increased intracellular concentrations of malonyl-CoA; reduced glycogen synthase activity; and impairment of insulin signalling and glucose transport. The depletion of IMTG depots is strictly associated with an improvement of insulin sensitivity, via a reduced acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) mRNA expression and an increased GLUT4 expression and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity. In pancreatic islets, TG accumulation causes impairment of insulin secretion. In rat models, ,-cell dysfunction is related to increased triacylglycerol content in islets, increased production of nitric oxide, ceramide synthesis and ,-cell apoptosis. The decreased insulin gene promoter activity and binding of the pancreas-duodenum homeobox-1 (PDX-1) transcription factor to the insulin gene seem to mediate TG effect in islets. In humans, acute and prolonged effects of FAs on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion have been widely investigated as well as the effect of high-fat diets on insulin sensitivity and secretion and on the development of type 2 diabetes. [source]


Polyunsaturated fatty acids and epilepsy

EPILEPSIA, Issue 8 2010
Ameer Y. Taha
Summary Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are dietary fatty acids that are involved in a myriad of physiologic processes in the brain. There is some evidence suggesting that PUFAs,and particularly omega-3 PUFAs,may have anticonvulsant effects, both in humans and in animals. In the present review, we assess the evidence related to the antiseizure properties of the n-3 PUFAs, discuss their possible mechanism(s) of action, and make recommendations for future clinical trials. In general, the available data from cell cultures and whole animal studies support the idea that the n-3 PUFAs have antiseizure properties. Future clinical trials involving the n-3 PUFAs should involve higher doses and longer periods of administration in order to definitively assess their possible antiseizure effects. [source]


Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Regulation of Gene Expression

NUTRITION REVIEWS, Issue 9 2004
Harini Sampath B.Sc.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), specifically the n-3 series, have been implicated in the prevention of various human diseases, including obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease and stroke, and inflammatory and neurologic diseases. PUFAs function mainly by altering membrane lipid composition, cellular metabolism, signal transduction, and regulation of gene expression. PUFAs regulate the expression of genes in various tissues, including the liver, heart, adipose tissue, and brain. The role of transcription factors such as SREBP1c and nuclear receptors such as PPAR-,, HNF-4,, and LXR, in mediating the nuclear effects of PUFAs are addressed. [source]


Polyunsaturated fatty acids and cytokine profiles: a clue to the changing prevalence of atopy?

CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 4 2003
P. C. Calder
First page of article [source]


Effect of sunlight exposure and aging on skin surface lipids and urate

EXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 2003
Nobumasa Hayashi
Abstract Free fatty acids (FFA), squalene, squalene hydroperoxide, and uric acid in the methanol extracts from human skin surface were measured. Levels of FFA and squalene were significantly lower in the older (83.7 ± 9.4 years) than in the younger (22.2 ± 3.9 years) group. FFA are mostly saturated, and linoleic acid is an exclusive polyunsaturated fatty acid. The composition of linoleic acid decreased in the older group by 40%, suggesting age-dependent loss of oxidatively vulnerable polyunsaturated fatty acid. Even monounsaturated acids such as palmitoleic and oleic acids decreased significantly in the older group. This could be interesting because 2-nonenal is the oxidation product of palmitoleic acid and has been identified as the major aged body odor component. Sunlight exposure for 1.5 h did not change levels of FFA and squalene, or FFA composition. However, squalene hydroperoxide increased by 60-fold, as reported previously, suggesting that hydroperoxide is produced by singlet oxygen. Uric acid increased by two-fold, which may be the adaptive response against photo-oxidative stress because uric acid is a good scavenger of singlet oxygen and oxygen radicals. [source]


CYP2E1 overexpression alters hepatocyte death from menadione and fatty acids by activation of ERK1/2 signaling

HEPATOLOGY, Issue 2 2004
Jörn M. Schattenberg
Chronic oxidative stress induced by overexpression of the cytochrome P450 isoform 2E1 (CYP2E1) has been implicated in hepatocyte injury and death. However, the mechanism by which CYP2E1 overexpression may promote cell death is unknown. Acute oxidative stress activates mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), suggesting that chronic oxidant generation by CYP2E1 may regulate cellular responses through these signaling pathways. The effect of CYP2E1 overexpression on MAPK activation and their function in altering death responses of CYP2E1-overexpressing hepatocytes were investigated. Chronic CYP2E1 overexpression led to increased extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation constitutively and in response to oxidant stress from the superoxide generator menadione. CYP2E1-overexpressing cells were resistant to menadione toxicity through an ERK1/2-dependent mechanism. Similar to menadione, the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) arachidonic acid (AA) induced an increased activation of ERK1/2 in hepatocytes that overexpressed CYP2E1. However, CYP2E1-overexpressing cells were sensitized to necrotic death from AA and the PUFA ,-linolenic acid, but not from saturated or monounsaturated fatty acids. Death from PUFA resulted from oxidative stress and was blocked by inhibition of ERK1/2, but not p38 MAPK or activator protein-1 signaling. CYP2E1 expression induced ERK1/2 activation through increased epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/c-Raf signaling. Inhibition of EGFR signaling reversed CYP2E1-induced resistance to menadione and sensitization to AA toxicity. In conclusion, chronic CYP2E1 overexpression leads to sustained ERK1/2 activation mediated by EGFR/c-Raf signaling. This adaptive response in hepatocytes exposed to chronic oxidative stress confers differential effects on cellular survival, protecting against menadione-induced apoptosis, but sensitizing to necrotic death from PUFA. (HEPATOLOGY 2004;39;444,445.) [source]


Carp (Cyprinus carpio) oils obtained by fishmeal and ensilage processes: characteristics and lipid profiles

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 8 2009
Valéria T. Crexi
Summary Fish oil is an important source of long-chain ,-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. The common carp (Cyprinus carp) is a major fish species in world aquaculture production. This study aimed towards obtaining carp viscera oil by ensilage and fishmeal processes. Characteristics of crude oils obtained were also compared with oil extracted by Bligh and Dyer methods. Crude oils obtained by the three processes resulted in significant difference (P < 0.05) for free fatty acids, peroxide, thiobarbituric acid and Lovibond colour values; however, iodine and saponification values were not significantly affected (P > 0.05). Recovery yield of crude oils was approximately 85% in relation to carp viscera oil. Carp crude oils obtained by the ensilage and fishmeal processes resulted in high unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid contents (67.4%), and ,3/,6 ratios around 1.15. These oils are applicable in fish diets; however, crude oils require refinement for human consumption. [source]


Effects of differences in diet and seasonal changes on the fatty acid composition in fillets from farmed and wild sea bream (Sparus aurata L.) and sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.)

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 5 2008
Mustafa Yildiz
Summary The effects of dietary fatty acids and seasonal variation on the fatty acid profiles of farmed and wild sea bream (Sparus aurata) and sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were determined by analysis of their fillets. Farmed sea bream and sea bass were fed on the same commercial feeds all year. Fatty acid profiles in the fillets reflected the fatty acid profiles of the commercial feeds. The predominant fatty acids in the trial feeds, fillets of farmed and wild sea bream and sea bass were 16:0, 18:1n -9, 18:2n -6, 20:5n -3 and 22:6n -3. The fatty acid profiles in the fillets of farmed sea bream and sea bass did not differ (P > 0.05) except in the winter season compared with those of their wild counterparts. However, the content of eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n -3), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n -3) in the fillets of the farmed and wild sea bass were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the farmed and wild sea bream. The wild sea bream had significantly (P < 0.05) higher total saturated fatty acid and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) levels, and lower total n -6 and n -3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels in winter than in the summer and spring seasons. Similarly, in the fillets of wild sea bass, total n -3 PUFA levels were significantly (P < 0.05) lower, and the MUFA levels were higher in winter than in the other seasons. These results indicate that the farmed fish fillets were good sources of n -3 PUFA in each of the three seasons. However, wild fish were good sources of n -3 PUFA in the spring and summer. [source]


Protective effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid on primary culture of rat hepatocytes

JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 11 2007
Ryoichi Sohma
Abstract Background and Aim:, Recently, we reported on the beneficial clinical effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) who were unresponsive to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). In this study we examined the effect of EPA on rat hepatocytes in primary culture. Methods:, Hepatocytes were isolated from rat liver by perfusion of collagenase and cultured with or without EPA. Cell damage induced by chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) was assessed by WST-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. PGE2 and LTB4 concentrations in the culture medium were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). cDNA was made from total RNA that was extracted from hepatocytes, and TaqMan polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to assess the expression of CuZn and Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD) mRNA. Results:, When rat hepatocytes were cultured in the presence of EPA, the damage caused by CDCA was significantly decreased compared with cells cultured without EPA. Cytotoxicity significantly decreased in the presence of EPA. Furthermore, SOD mRNA expression was increased by adding EPA. These findings indicated that EPA protects cells by scavenging superoxide radicals (,O2,) mediated by SOD production. Conclusion:, EPA has a direct protective effect on rat hepatocytes, which is in agreement with the clinical efficacy of EPA in PBC patients. [source]


Fatty acid composition in some selected marine fish species living in Turkish waters

JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 1 2006
Abdulkadir Bay
Abstract The muscle fatty acid (FA) composition of 12 selected marine fish species living in Turkish waters was determined. FA profiles of muscle were compared in terms of total and individual saturated (SFAs) and unsaturated fatty acids. Total SFA, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-6 PUFA) contents as well as n-3/n-6 FA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) ratios differed (P < 0.01) in all fish species. Palmitic acid (16:0) among total SFAs, oleic acid (18:1n-9) among MUFAs, DHA (22:6n-3) among n-3 PUFAs and 18:2n-6 and 20:4n-6 among n-6 PUFAs were the most abundant FAs. The ratio of n-3/n-6 PUFA contents, indicating the availability of n-3 PUFAs that are beneficial for human health, ranged from 2.67 to 12.61. The EPA/DHA ratio was between 0.17 and 0.83 in the marine fish species studied. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


Early detection of radiation therapy response in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma xenografts by in vivo1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging

NMR IN BIOMEDICINE, Issue 6 2010
Seung-Cheol Lee
Abstract The purpose of the study was to investigate the capability of 1H MRS and MRI methods for detecting early response to radiation therapy in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Studies were performed on the WSU-DLCL2 xenograft model in nude mice of human diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, the most common form of NHL. Radiation treatment was applied as a single 15,Gy dose to the tumor. Tumor lactate, lipids, total choline, T2 and apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) were measured before treatment and at 24,h and 72,h after radiation. A Hadamard-encoded slice-selective multiple quantum coherence spectroscopy sequence was used for detecting lactate (Lac) while a stimulated echo acquisition mode sequence was used for detection of total choline (tCho) and lipids. T2 - and diffusion-weighted imaging sequences were used for measuring T2 and ADC. Within 24,h after radiation, significant changes were observed in the normalized integrated resonance intensities of Lac and the methylenes of lipids. Lac/H2O decreased by 38,±,15% (p,=,0.03), and lipid (1.3,ppm, CH2)/H2O increased by 57,±,14% (p,=,0.01). At 72,h after radiation, tCho/H2O decreased by 45,±,14% (p,=,0.01), and lipid (2.8,ppm, polyunsaturated fatty acid)/H2O increased by 970,±,36% (p,=,0.001). ADC increased by 14,±,2% (p,=,0.003), and T2 did not change significantly. Tumor growth delay and regression were observed thereafter. This study enabled comparison of the relative sensitivities of various 1H MRS and MRI indices to radiation and suggests that 1H MRS/MRI measurements detect early responses to radiation that precede tumor volume changes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Effect of n -3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Risk Reduction of Sudden Death

NUTRITION REVIEWS, Issue 12 2002
Article first published online: 16 SEP 200
Two recent reports confirm the role ofn -3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) consumption in risk reduction for sudden death. The mechanism likely involves an antiarrhythmic effect, further supporting the role of dietaryn -3 PUFA in maintenance of human health. [source]


Electrospray mass spectrometric investigation of the binding of cis -parinaric acid to bovine beta-lactoglobulin and study of the ligand-binding site of the protein using limited proteolysis

RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY, Issue 22 2003
Tímea Imre
The binding property of parinaric acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, to bovine , -lactoglobulin, has been studied by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Stable complexation was observed under acidic conditions in a molar ratio of 1:1. Competitive complexation experiments were performed using saturated and unsaturated fatty acid standards with different chain lengths and number of double bonds to study the specificity of the interaction. It can be concluded that formation of the parinaric acid,lactoglobulin complex is preferred even if the molar concentration of the other fatty acids is ten times higher. In cases of specific complex formation the protein must have an active site that is a good acceptor for the ligand molecule. Limited trypsinolysis was performed on the lactoglobulin molecule to identify which part is responsible for the complexation. An intermediate tryptic fragment with molecular mass of 5200,Da was found to have the same ability to bind parinaric acid as the intact protein. This disulfide-bonded residue, [41-70]S-S[149-162], might thus be involved in the specific complexation of parinaric acid to , -lactoglobulin. This conclusion is consistent with previous information on this binding site. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Activation of PLA2 isoforms by cell swelling and ischaemia/hypoxia

ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1-2 2006
I. H. Lambert
Abstract Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity is increased in mammalian cells in response to numerous stimuli such as osmotic challenge, oxidative stress and exposure to allergens. The increased PLA2 activity is seen as an increased release of free, polyunsaturated fatty acids, e.g. arachidonic acid and membrane-bound lysophospholipids. Even though arachidonic acid acts as a second messenger in its own most mammalian cells seem to rely on oxidation of the fatty acid into highly potent second messengers via, e.g. cytochrome P450, the cyclo-oxygenase, or the lipoxygenase systems for downstream signalling. Here, we review data that illustrates that stress-induced PLA2 activity involves various PLA2 subtypes and that the PLA2 in question is determined by the cell type and the physiological stress condition. [source]


Polyunsaturated fatty acids and epilepsy

EPILEPSIA, Issue 8 2010
Ameer Y. Taha
Summary Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are dietary fatty acids that are involved in a myriad of physiologic processes in the brain. There is some evidence suggesting that PUFAs,and particularly omega-3 PUFAs,may have anticonvulsant effects, both in humans and in animals. In the present review, we assess the evidence related to the antiseizure properties of the n-3 PUFAs, discuss their possible mechanism(s) of action, and make recommendations for future clinical trials. In general, the available data from cell cultures and whole animal studies support the idea that the n-3 PUFAs have antiseizure properties. Future clinical trials involving the n-3 PUFAs should involve higher doses and longer periods of administration in order to definitively assess their possible antiseizure effects. [source]


Oxidative stability and acceptability of camelina oil blended with selected fish oils

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF LIPID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 8 2010
Deirdre Ní Eidhin
Abstract The effects of blending camelina oil with a number of fish oils on oxidative stability and fishy odour were evaluated. Camelina oil was found to be more stable than tuna oil, ,omega-3' fish oil and salmon oil as indicated by predominantly lower ,-anisidine (AV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and conjugated triene levels (CT) during storage at 60,°C for 20,days (p,<,0.05). Peroxide values (PV) were similar for all oils until Day 13 when values for camelina oil were higher. Values for blends of the fish oils (50, 25, 15, 5%) with camelina oil were generally between those of their respective bulk oils indicating a dilution effect. Camelina oil had a similar odour score (p,<,0.05) to sunflower oil (9.2 and 9.6, respectively) indicating, as expected, an absence of fishy odours. In comparison, the fish oils had lower scores of 6.1 to 6.6 (p,<,0.05) indicating mild to moderate fishy odours. Odour scores were improved at the 25% fish oil levels (p,<,0.05) and were not different to camelina oil at the 15 or 5% levels (p,<,0.05). Practical applications: Camelina oil is a potentially important functional food ingredient providing beneficial n-3 PUFA. Oil extracted from Camelina sativa seeds contains greater than 50% polyunsaturated fatty acids of which 35-40% is ,-linolenic acid (C18:3,3, ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid 1. While EPA and DHA from fish oils are more potent nutritionally, they are less stable than ALA. This work evaluated innovative blends of fish oil with camelina oil for stability and acceptability. The results demonstrate that there is potential for use of blends of camelina oil with fish oils in food products, as the results show some benefits in terms of reduction of fishy odours. Such information could be valuable in relation to formulation of food products containing high levels of n-3 PUFA from both plant and fish sources. [source]


Lipid damage in farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) after slaughtering and chilled storage

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF LIPID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 12 2008
Jaime Ortiz
Abstract The flow ice system including ozone (OFI condition) was tested for slaughtering and storage (up to 16,days) of farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Lipid damage analyses were carried out and compared to sensory acceptance and instrumental colour changes. Comparison to individuals processed with the flow ice system in the absence of ozone (FI condition) was undertaken. Rainbow trout slaughtered and chilled under FI and OFI conditions showed a low lipid damage development, according to lipid oxidation and hydrolysis events and lipid composition (polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids and endogenous antioxidants) changes. Additionally, both icing conditions led to largely good quality and shelf life times and to the absence of changes in colour properties. It is concluded that flow ice as such, or including the presence of ozone, can be considered as ideal strategy to be employed as slaughtering and storage system during the commercialisation of the actual farmed species. The ozone presence has shown some profitable effects as leading to an extended shelf life time by quality retention of several sensory parameters; in contrast, some negligible negative effects could be observed on the secondary and tertiary lipid oxidation development. However, the oxidation values reached by individuals kept under OFI conditions cannot be considered as particularly high. [source]


N -3 enrichment of pork with fishmeal: Effects on production and consumer acceptability

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF LIPID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 8 2008
Stelios Sioutis
Abstract This study aimed to develop pork products of acceptable organoleptic quality enriched with long-chain n -3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n -3 PUFA). Female pigs were fed a finisher diet containing 15% PorcOmegaÔ tuna fishmeal or a commercial diet. Pigs and rations were weighed weekly. The feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in pigs fed fishmeal than in controls (2.61,±,0.01 versus 2.96,±,0.06, p,<0.05). After 6,weeks, the pigs were butchered and the fatty acid contents of selected pork products were analyzed by gas chromatography. Shelf life was tested by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), initially and after 5,days of cold storage, and sensory qualities were evaluated after cooking. LC n -3 PUFA contents of pork products from pigs fed fishmeal were higher than in controls (steak 300%, stir-fry 250%, diced 520%, mince 480%, sausage 360%; p,<0.05 in all cases). There were no differences between n -3-enriched and regular pork in either TBARS content of stored raw products or sensory characteristics after cooking. Incorporating fishmeal in the finisher diet resulted in greater feed efficiency and production of nutritionally enhanced pork products with organoleptic profiles and stability comparable to those of regular pork. [source]


Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) enrichment of membrane phospholipids increases gap junction coupling capacity in cultured astrocytes

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 11 2006
Gaelle Champeil-Potokar
Abstract Although it is agreed that n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are important for brain function, it has yet to be demonstrated how they are involved in precise cellular mechanisms. We investigated the role of enhanced n-3 PUFA in astrocyte membranes on the gap junction capacity of these cells. Astrocytes isolated from newborn rat cortices were grown in medium supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the main n-3 PUFA in cell membranes, or arachidonic acid (AA), the main n-6 PUFA, plus an antioxidant (,-tocopherol or N -acetyl-cystein) to prevent peroxidation. The resulting three populations of astrocytes differed markedly in their n-3 : n-6 PUFA ratios in phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine, the main phospholipids in membranes. DHA-supplemented cells had a physiological high n-3 : n-6 ratio (1.58), unsupplemented cells had a low n-3 : n-6 ratio (0.66) and AA-supplemented cells had a very low n-3 : n-6 ratio (0.36), with excess n-6 PUFA. DHA-supplemented astrocytes had a greater gap junction capacity than unsupplemented cells or AA-supplemented cells. The enhanced gap junction coupling of DHA-enriched cells was associated with a more functional distribution of connexin 43 at cell interfaces (shown by immunocytochemistry) and more of the main phosphorylated isoform of connexin 43. These findings suggest that the high n-3 : n-6 PUFA ratio that occurs naturally in astrocyte membranes is needed for optimal gap junction coupling in these cells. [source]


Essential fatty acids and phosphorus in seston from lakes with contrasting terrestrial dissolved organic carbon content

FRESHWATER BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2007
KELLY GUTSEIT
Summary 1. It is often assumed that lakes highly influenced by terrestrial organic matter (TOM) have low zooplankton food quality because of elemental and/or biochemical deficiencies of the major particulate organic carbon pools. We used the biochemical [polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) , 20:5,3] and elemental (C : P ratio) composition of particulate matter (PM) as qualitative measures of potential zooplankton food in two categories of lakes of similar primary productivity, but with contrasting TOM influence (clear water versus humic lakes). 2. C : P ratios (atomic ratio) in PM were similar between lake categories and were above 400. The concentration (,g L,1) and relative content (,g mg C,1) of EPA, as well as the particulate organic carbon concentration, were higher in the humic lakes than in the clear-water lakes. 3. Our results show high fatty acid quality of PM in the humic lakes. The differences in the biochemical quality of the potential zooplankton food between lake categories can be attributed to the differences in their phytoplankton communities. 4. High biochemical quality of the food can result in high efficiency of energy transfer in the food chain and stimulate production at higher trophic levels, assuming that zooplankton are able to ingest and digest the resource available. [source]


Dietary intakes of ,-6 and ,-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the risk of breast cancer

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 4 2009
Anne C.M. Thiébaut
Abstract Experimental studies suggest detrimental effects of ,-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and beneficial effects of ,-3 PUFAs on mammary carcinogenesis, possibly in interaction with antioxidants. However, PUFA food sources are diverse in human diets and few epidemiologic studies have examined whether associations between dietary PUFAs and breast cancer risk vary according to food sources or antioxidant intakes. The relationship between individual PUFA intakes estimated from diet history questionnaires and breast cancer risk was examined among 56,007 French women. During 8 years of follow-up, 1,650 women developed invasive breast cancer. Breast cancer risk was not related to any dietary PUFA overall; however, opposite associations were seen according to food sources, suggesting other potential effects than PUFA per se. Breast cancer risk was inversely associated with ,-linolenic acid (ALA) intake from fruit and vegetables [highest vs. lowest quintile, hazard ratio (HR) 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63, 0.88; p trend < 0.0001], and from vegetable oils (HR 0.83; 95% CI 0.71, 0.97; p trend 0.017). Conversely, breast cancer risk was positively related to ALA intake from nut mixes (p trend 0.004) and processed foods (p trend 0.068), as was total ALA intake among women in the highest quintile of dietary vitamin E (p trend 0.036). A significant interaction was also found between ,-6 and long-chain ,-3 PUFAs, with breast cancer risk inversely related to long-chain ,-3 PUFAs in women belonging to the highest quintile of ,-6 PUFAs (p interaction 0.042). These results emphasize the need to consider food sources, as well as interactions between fatty acids and with antioxidants, when evaluating associations between PUFA intakes and breast cancer risk. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Effects of drying process on biochemical and microbiological quality of silverside (fish) Atherina lagunae

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2010
Salah Selmi
Summary Changes in biochemical and microbiological quality of silverside during two drying process were investigated. Total fatty acid and amino acid contents in silverside were 5.42 and 10.9 g 100 g,1 fresh sample, respectively, in which, palmitic acid and glutamic acid were the most abundant. N-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) levels were 0.59 and 0.62 g 100 g,1 fresh silverside respectively. After hot air and solar drying treatments, Peroxide value and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances of the total lipids increased significantly (P < 0.05) to reach 2.58 and 3.41 meq active O2 kg,1 oil and 0.87 and 1.27 mg MA kg,1 oil, respectively. Fatty acid profile of non-polar lipid remains unchanged during experimental drying process. However, PUFA (% of total fatty acids) of polar lipid decreased significantly (P < 0.05) during both drying process with lower levels in solar drying process. Drying conditions had a significant effect on the microbiological quality. Therefore, mesophiles and total coliforms increased within drying treatment with higher counts in solar drying process. [source]


Vitamin D Receptor: Key Roles in Bone Mineral Pathophysiology, Molecular Mechanism of Action, and Novel Nutritional Ligands,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue S2 2007
Peter W Jurutka
Abstract The vitamin D hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], binds with high affinity to the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR), which recruits its retinoid X receptor (RXR) heterodimeric partner to recognize vitamin D responsive elements (VDREs) in target genes. 1,25(OH)2D3 is known primarily as a regulator of calcium, but it also controls phosphate (re)absorption at the intestine and kidney. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a phosphaturic hormone produced in osteoblasts that, like PTH, lowers serum phosphate by inhibiting renal reabsorption through Npt2a/Npt2c. Real-time PCR and reporter gene transfection assays were used to probe VDR-mediated transcriptional control by 1,25(OH)2D3. Reporter gene and mammalian two-hybrid transfections, plus competitive receptor binding assays, were used to discover novel VDR ligands. 1,25(OH)2D3 induces FGF23 78-fold in osteoblasts, and because FGF23 in turn represses 1,25(OH)2D3 synthesis, a reciprocal relationship is established, with FGF23 indirectly curtailing 1,25(OH)2D3 -mediated intestinal absorption and counterbalancing renal reabsorption of phosphate, thereby reversing hyperphosphatemia and preventing ectopic calcification. Therefore, a 1,25(OH)2D3,FGF23 axis regulating phosphate is comparable in importance to the 1,25(OH)2D3,PTH axis that regulates calcium. 1,25(OH)2D3 also elicits regulation of LRP5, Runx2, PHEX, TRPV6, and Npt2c, all anabolic toward bone, and RANKL, which is catabolic. Regulation of mouse RANKL by 1,25(OH)2D3 supports a cloverleaf model, whereby VDR-RXR heterodimers bound to multiple VDREs are juxtapositioned through chromatin looping to form a supercomplex, potentially allowing simultaneous interactions with multiple co-modulators and chromatin remodeling enzymes. VDR also selectively binds certain ,3/,6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) with low affinity, leading to transcriptionally active VDR-RXR complexes. Moreover, the turmeric-derived polyphenol, curcumin, activates transcription of a VDRE reporter construct in human colon cancer cells. Activation of VDR by PUFAs and curcumin may elicit unique, 1,25(OH)2D3 -independent signaling pathways to orchestrate the bioeffects of these lipids in intestine, bone, skin/hair follicle, and other VDR-containing tissues. [source]


Dietary Fish Oil Protects Against Stretch-Induced Vulnerability to Atrial Fibrillation in a Rabbit Model

JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 11 2005
DANIEL M. NINIO M.B.B.S.
Introduction: Dietary fish oil is thought to reduce sudden cardiac death by suppressing ventricular arrhythmias but little is known about its impact on atrial arrhythmias. We examined the effect of dietary fish oil on the rabbit model of stretch-induced vulnerability to atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods and Results: Six-week-old rabbits were fed standard rabbit pellets supplemented with 5% tuna fish oil (n = 6) or supplemented with 5% sunflower oil (n = 6) for 12 weeks. Six rabbits raised on the standard diet were used as controls. In Langendorff-perfused hearts intraatrial pressures were increased in a stepwise manner and rapid burst pacing applied to induce AF at increasing intraatrial pressures until AF was sustained (>1 minute). Atrial refractory periods were recorded at each pressure. Increased atrial pressure resulted in a reduction in atrial refractory period and a propensity for induction of sustained AF. Higher pressures were needed to induce and sustain AF in the fish oil group compared with the sunflower oil and control groups. The stretch-induced drop in refractory period was also less marked in the fish oil group. Red blood cell, atrial, and ventricular omega-3 fatty acid levels were significantly higher in the fish oil group. The ratio of atrial n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was 13 ± 0.9 with sunflower oil and 1.5 ± 0.01 with fish oil (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Incorporation of dietary omega-3 fatty acids into atrial tissue reduces stretch-induced susceptibility to AF. [source]


Effects of long-term administration of N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) derivatives in ovariectomized (OVX) mice

JOURNAL OF CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2003
L. Zeitlin
Abstract We studied the beneficial effects of dietary consumption of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and two selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) derivatives (SERM-I and SERM-II) and their combined effect on serum lipids, skin dermis and adipose layers, bone marrow adipogenesis, and cytokine secretion in mice. Two different ovariectomized (OVX) models were studied: treatment began immediately post-OVX in one and 3 months post-OVX in the other. Our results showed that n-3 PUFA and both SERMs decreased triglyceride levels in the serum, and that SERMs also decreased serum cholesterol levels while n-3 PUFA had no similar effect. SERMs had no effect on IL-6, IL-1 beta, or IL-10 levels, but they decreased ex vivo tumor necrosis factor (TNF-,). N-3 PUFA decreased secretion of non-induced IL-6 and TNF-, from cultured BMC and IL-1 beta levels in vivo (i.e., in bone marrow plasma), but its main effect was a significant elevation in the secretion of IL-10, a known anti-inflammatory cytokine. OVX-induced B-lymphopoiesis was not affected by LY-139481 (SERM-I) while LY-353381 (SERM-II) exhibited an estrogen-antagonistic effect in sham and OVX mice and elevated the amount of B-cells in bone marrow. Fish oil consumption prevented the elevation in B-lymphopoiesis caused by OVX, but had no curative effect on established augmented B-lymphopoiesis. This activity could be mediated via the elevation of IL-10 which was shown to suppress B-lymphopoiesis. Both SERMs and n-3 PUFA inhibited the increase in adipose tissue thickness caused by OVX in mice. Our results showed that n-3 PUFA, could prevent some of the deleterious outcomes of estrogen deficiency that were not affected by SERMs. We observed no significant beneficial effects of the combined administration of SERM-I, SERM-II, and PUFA on the studied parameters. The exact mechanism by which polyunsaturated fatty acids exert their activities is still not clear, but peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) might be involved in processes which are modulated by n-3 PUFA. J. Cell. Biochem. 90: 347,360, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Role of calcium and ROS in cell death induced by polyunsaturated fatty acids in murine thymocytes

JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
Aparna Prasad
We investigated the mechanisms whereby omega-3 and -6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) cause cell death of mouse thymocytes using flow cytometry, focusing on the respective roles of intracellular calcium concentration, [Ca2+]i and reactive oxygen species (ROS). We applied the C-22, 20, and 18 carbon omega-3 (DHA, EPA, ALA) and omega-6 (DTA, ARA, and LNA) fatty acids to isolated thymocytes and monitored cell death using the DNA-binding dye, propidium iodide. When applied at 20,µM concentration, omega-3 fatty acids killed thymocytes over a period of 1,h with a potency of DHA,>,EPA,>,ALA. The omega-6 PUFAs were more potent. The C18 omega-6 fatty acid, LNA, was the most potent, followed by DHA and ARA. Cell death was always accompanied by an increase in the levels of [Ca2+]i and ROS. Both increases were in proportion to the potency of the PUFAs in inducing cell death. Removing extracellular calcium did not prevent the elevation in [Ca2+]i nor cell death. However, the intracellular calcium chelator, BAPTA, almost totally reduced both the elevation in [Ca2+]i and cell death, while vitamin E reduced the elevation in ROS and cell death. BAPTA also prevented the elevation in ROS, but vitamin E did not prevent the elevation in [Ca2+]i. Thapsigargin, which depletes endoplasmic reticulum calcium, blocked the elevation in [Ca2+]i, but CCCP, a mitochondrial calcium uptake inhibitor, did not. These results suggest that the six PUFAs we studied kill thymocytes by causing release of calcium from endoplasmic reticulum, which causes release of ROS from mitochondria which leads to cell death. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 829,836, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Local application of n,3 or n,6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the treatment of human experimental gingivitis

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 4 2002
Jörg Eberhard
Abstract Background: Polyunsaturated fatty acids have the potential to attenuate inflammation by the synthesis of mediators of the 15-lipoxygenase pathways, which show opposite effects to the pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid metabolites such as leukotriene B4 (LTB4). Aims: The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate the effects of topical application of n,6 or n,6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in patients with experimental gingivitis. Methods: In each subject, similar teeth served as experimental and control over a 21-day non-hygiene phase and a 9-day resolving phase. Efficacy assessment was based on the bleeding on probing frequency (BOP) and the gingivocrevicular fluid volume (GCF). GCF was determined by inserting a filter paper strip for 30 s and measurements were performed on a Periotron 8000. The LTB4 concentration was analyzed by reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography. Results: After 21 days of plaque growth, the BOP, GCF and LTB4 levels were significantly increased in all groups, with no differences between the control and experimental side. Rinsing of an area with established gingivitis for a 9-day period significantly reduced the GCF in the n,6 group (71.9 (18.7) versus 47.4 (11.4) Periotron Units, median (inter quartile range)). Conclusion: The topical application of n,6 or n,6 fatty acids failed to inhibit the development of experimental gingivitis. Rinsing with n,6 fatty acids could reduce the level of GCF in established experimental gingivitis. Zusammenfassung Hintergrund: Vielfach ungesättigte Fettsäuren haben das Potential, die Entzündung durch die Synthese von Mediatoren des 15-Lipoxygenaseweges zu behindern. Dies zeigt Gegeneffekte zu den pro-inflammatorischen Arachnoidonsäuremetaboliten wie Leukotrien B4 (LTB4). Ziele: Das Ziel dieser klinischen Studie war die Überprüfung des Effektes einer topischen Applikation von n,3 oder n,6 vielfach ungesättigten Fettsäuren bie Patienten mit experimenteller Gingivitis. Methoden: Bei jeder Person dienten ähnliche Zähne als Experiment und Kontrollen über eine 21tägige Nichthygiene-Phase und einer 9tägigen Erholungsphase. Wirksamkeitsmessungen basierten auf der Häufigkeit von Provokationsblutung (BOP) und dem Volumen der gingivalen krevikulären Flüssigkeit (GCF). GCF wurde durch Einbringen von Filterpapierstreifen für 30 Sekunden bestimmt. Die Messungen wurden mit einen Periotron 8000 durchgeführt. Die LTB4 Konzentration wurde mit der Umkehrphasen-Hochdruck-Flüssigkeitschromatographie analysiert. Ergebnisse: Nach 21 Tagen des Plaquewachstums waren die Level für BOP, GCF und LTB4 in allen Gruppen signifikant erhöht, ohne Differenzen zwischen den Kontrollen und den experimentellen Flächen. Die Spülung eines Gebietes mit etablierter Gingivitis für eine 9tägige Periode reduzierte die GCF in der n,6 Gruppe signifikant (71.9 (18.7) versus 47.4 (11.4) Peritron-Einheiten, Median (Zwischenquartilstreuung)). Zusammenfassung: Die topische Applikation von n,3 oder n,6 Fettsäuren verhindert die Entwicklung einer experimentellen Gingivitis nicht. Die Spülung mit n,6 Fettsäure konnte den Level der GCF bei einer bestehenden experimentellen Gingivitis reduzieren. Résumé Origine: Les acides gras poly-insaturés ont le potentiel d'atténuer l'inflammation en synthétisant des médiateurs des voies de la lipoxygénase 15 qui montrent des effets opposés aux métabolites de l'acide arachidonique pro-inflammatoire comme la leucotriène B4 (LTB4). But: Le but de cette étude clinique a été d'évaluer les effets de l'application topique d'acide gras poly-insaturés n,3 ou n,6 chez des patients effectuant d'une gingivite expérimentale. Méthodes: Chez chaque sujet, des dents semblables ont servi de sites tests et contrôles durant une phase sans hygiène buccale de 21 jours et une phase de retour à la normale de 9 jours. L'efficacité a été mesurée sur base de la fréquence du saignement au sondage (BOP) et le volume de fluide gingivale (GCF). Le GCF a été déterminé en insérant des papiers filtres pendant 30 s et les mesures ont été lues à l'aide du Périotron 8000. La concentration de LTB4 a été analysée par chromotographie liquide à haute pression à phrase arrière. Résultats: Après 21 jours d'accumulation de plaque dentaire les niveaux de BOP, GCF et LTB4 ont augmenté significativement dans tous les groupes sans aucune différence entre les sites tests et contrôles. Le rinçage d'une zone avec gingivite établie durant une période de 9 journées diminuait les GCF dans le groupe n,6 (unités du Péritron 72 (médian 19) versus 47 (11)). Conclusion: L'application topique d'acide gras n,3 ou n,6 ne permettait pas d'inhiber le développement de la gingivite expérimentale. Le rinçage avec des acides gras n,6 pouvait réduire le niveau de GCF dans la gingivite expérimentale établie. [source]


N,3 polyunsaturated fatty acids impair lifespan but have no role for metabolism

AGING CELL, Issue 1 2007
Teresa G. Valencak
Summary Although generally considered as beneficial components of dietary fats, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been suspected to compromise maximum lifespan (MLSP) in mammals. Specifically, high amounts of phospholipid PUFAs are thought to impair lifespan due to an increase in the susceptibility of membranes to lipid peroxidation and its damaging effect on cellular molecules. Also, there is evidence from in vitro studies suggesting that highly unsaturated PUFAs elevate basal metabolic rate (BMR). Previous comparative studies in this context were based on small sample sizes, however, and, except for one study, failed to address possible confounding influences of body weight and taxonomic relations between species. Therefore, we determined phospholipid membrane composition in skeletal muscle from 42 mammalian species to test for a relation with published data on MLSP, and with literature data on BMR (30 species). Using statistical models that adjust for the effects of body weight and phylogeny, we found that among mammals, MLSP indeed decreases as the ratio of n,3 to n,6 PUFAs increases. In contrast to previous studies, we found, however, no relation between MLSP and either membrane unsaturation (i.e. PUFA content or number of double bonds) or to the very long-chain, highly unsaturated docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Similarly, our data set gave no evidence for any notable relation between muscle phospholipid fatty acid composition and BMR, or MLSP and BMR in mammals. These results contradict the ,membrane pacemaker theory of aging', that is, the concept of a direct link between high amounts of membrane PUFAs, elevated BMR, and thus, impaired longevity. [source]