Withania somnifera extracts induced attenuation of HIV-1: a mechanistic approach to restrict viral infection.

BACKGROUND: Several anti-retroviral drugs are available against Human immunodeficiency virus type-1, but have multiple adverse side effects. Hence, there is an incessant compulsion for effectual anti-retroviral agents with minimal or no intricacy. Traditionally, natural products have been the most successful source for the development of new medications. Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, is the utmost treasured medicinal plant used in Ayurveda, which holds the potential to give adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and antiviral effects. However, its effect on HIV-1 replication at the cellular level has never been explored. Herein, we focused on the anti-HIV-1 activity and the probable mechanism of action of hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots and its phytomolecules. METHODS: The cytotoxicity of the extracts was determined through MTT assay, while the in vitro anti-HIV-1 activity was assessed in TZM-bl cells against the HIV-1 strains of X4 and R5 subtypes. Results were confirmed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, using the HIV-1 p24 antigen assay. Additionally, the mechanism of action was determined through the Time of Addition assay, which was further validated through the series of enzymatic assays, i.e. HIV-1 Integrase, Reverse transcriptase, and Protease assays. To explore the role of the identified active metabolites of Withania somnifera in antiretroviral activity, molecular docking analyses were performed against these key HIV-1 replication enzymes. RESULTS: The hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots were found to be safer at the sub-cytotoxic concentrations and exhibited their ability to inhibit replication of two primary isolates of HIV-1 through cell-associated and cell-free assays, in dose-dependent kinetics. Several active phytomolecules found in Withania somnifera successfully established hydrogens bonds in the active binding pocket site residues responsible for the catalytic activity of HIV replication and therefore, signifying their role in the attenuation of HIV-1 infection as implied through the in silico molecular docking studies. CONCLUSIONS: Our research identified both the hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots as potent inhibitors of HIV-1 infection. The in silico analyses also indicated the key components of Withania somnifera with the highest binding affinity against the HIV-1 Integrase by 12-Deoxywithastramonolide and 27-Hydroxywithanone, HIV-1 Protease by Ashwagandhanolide and Withacoagin, and HIV-1 Reverse transcriptase by Ashwagandhanolide and Withanolide B, thereby showing possible mechanisms of HIV-1 extenuation. Overall, this study classified the role of Withania somnifera extracts and their active compounds as potential agents against HIV-1 infection.

VEGF and VEGFR1 levels in different regions of the normal and preeclampsia placentae.

Altered placental angiogenesis is implicated in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. We have earlier reported placental regional differences in oxidative stress markers and neurotrophins. Oxidative stress and neurotrophins are reported to regulate angiogenesis. This study aims to examine protein and mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) in four regions [central maternal (CM), central fetal (CF), peripheral maternal (PM), and peripheral fetal (PF)] of the placenta in normotensive control (NC) women (n = 51) and women with preeclampsia (PE) (n = 43) [18 delivered at term (T-PE) and 25 delivered preterm (PT-PE)]. In all groups, CF region reported highest VEGF protein levels compared to all other regions. VEGF mRNA level was higher in CF region as compared to CM region in PE group (p < 0.05). VEGF levels were lower in all regions of PE, T-PE, and PT-PE groups (p < 0.05) as compared to their respective regions in NC group. VEGFR1 levels were lower in CF (p < 0.05) and PF (p < 0.01) regions as compared to CM region only in control. However, VEGFR1 levels were higher in CF (p < 0.05) and PF (p < 0.01) regions of PT-PE group as compared to control. VEGFR1 mRNA level was higher in PM region of PE group and T-PE group (p < 0.05 for both) as compared to control. VEGF levels in the PF region were positively associated with birth weight and placental weight. This study describes placental regional changes in angiogenic factors particularly highlighting increased VEGF in CF region possibly in response to hypoxic conditions prevailing in placenta.

Investigating the expression of MMPs and TIMPs in preterm placenta and role of CpG methylation in regulating MMP-9 expression.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) are crucial to the processes of normal labor and parturition. We have previously reported aberrant protein levels of MMPs in placenta of women delivering preterm as compared to term. In this study, we examine the mRNA levels of MMPs (MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9) and TIMPs (TIMP-1, TIMP-2) in the placenta from women delivering preterm as compared with term and further study the promoter DNA methylation of the MMP-9 gene in a sub-sample of term and preterm placentae. A total of 110 women were included in the study; 56 delivered term and 54 delivered preterm. MMP and TIMP mRNA levels were determined by Taqman-based qPCR. Promoter CpG methylation of MMP-9 gene was studied on a subset of 10 term and 8 preterm placenta using Epitect Methyl-II PCR assay kit. The mRNA levels of MMP-1,-2 were higher and those of TIMP-1,-2 were lower in the placentae of women delivering preterm. MMP-9 levels were comparable between the two groups. Among women undergoing spontaneous vaginal deliveries, higher mRNA levels of MMP-1, -2 and -9 were seen in the placentae of those delivering preterm as compared to term. Similar results were seen in women undergoing preterm labor as compared to term. MMP-9 gene promoter was hypomethylated in preterm placenta as compared to term placenta, while the mRNA levels were comparable between the two groups. The observed imbalance between MMP and TIMP expression may have prematurely triggered the signaling cascade leading to preterm birth. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(12):985-993, 2017.

Maternal micronutrients and brain global methylation patterns in the offspring.

OBJECTIVES: Studies have established the association of maternal nutrition and increased risk for non-communicable diseases. It has been suggested that this involves epigenetic modifications in the genome. However, the role of maternal micronutrients in the one-carbon cycle in influencing brain development of the offspring through methylation is unexplored. It is also unclear whether epigenomic marks established during early development can be reversed by a postnatal diet. The present study reports the effect of maternal micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids on global DNA methylation patterns in the brain of the Wistar rat offspring at three timepoints (at birth, postnatal day 21, and 3 months of age). METHOD: Pregnant rats were divided into control (n = 8) and five treatment groups (n = 16 dams in each group) at two levels of folic acid (normal and excess folate) in the presence and absence of vitamin B12 (NFBD, EFB, and EFBD). Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was given to vitamin B12 deficient groups (NFBDO and EFBDO). Following delivery, eight dams from each group were shifted to control diet and remaining continued on the same treatment diet. RESULTS: Our results demonstrate that maternal micronutrient imbalance results in global hypomethylation in the offspring brain at birth. At adult age the cortex of the offspring displayed hypermethylation as compared with control, in spite of a postnatal control diet. In contrast, prenatal omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was able to normalize methylation at 3 months of age. DISCUSSION: Our findings provide clues for the role of omega-3 fatty acids in reversing methylation patterns thereby highlighting its contribution in neuroprotection and cognition.

Matrix metalloproteinases-2, -3 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1, -2 in placentas from preterm pregnancies and their association with one-carbon metabolites.

Maternal nutrition is an important determinant of one-carbon metabolism and defects in the one-carbon metabolism may lead to poor obstetric outcomes. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that altered intake/metabolism of micronutrients (folic acid and vitamin B12) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) contributes to increased homocysteine and oxidative stress leading to altered levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in women delivering preterm. We have earlier reported increased vitamin B12, homocysteine, and oxidative stress along with reduced placental DHA in women delivering preterm. In this study, we further examine the placental levels of MMP2, MMP3, TIMP1, and TIMP2 in 75 women delivering at term and 73 women delivering preterm. Placental levels of MMPs and TIMPs were determined by ELISA. Placental MMP2 and MMP3 levels were higher (P<0.01) in women delivering preterm as compared with term. There was no difference in the placental TIMP1 and TIMP2 levels in women delivering preterm and at term. Further placental MMP2 and MMP3 levels were higher (P<0.01) in women with preterm labor as compared with those in labor at term, suggesting that MMPs may favor degradation of extracellular matrix in the placenta during preterm labor. Our study for the first time suggests a crucial role of micronutrients and MMPs in preterm birth. Future studies need to examine if epigenetic modifications through the one-carbon cycle contribute to increased levels of MMPs leading to preterm deliveries.

Association between proNGF receptors and apoptotic factors in human placentae.

INTRODUCTION: Earlier studies have shown higher apoptosis in the pre-term placenta as compared to term. However, the exact mechanisms triggering these are not completely understood. Studies in neuronal and non-neuronal tissues have shown that the precursor form of NGF (proNGF) triggers apoptosis through preferential activation of p75NTR and sortilin receptors. We therefore, investigated placental expression of proNGF, mature NGF, p75NTR, co-receptor sortilin and their association with apoptosis. We further compared the levels of pro-protein convertase, furin between samples having high and low proNGF: mature NGF ratio. METHODS: Placenta samples were collected from women delivering at term (≥37 weeks; n = 41) and preterm (<37 weeks; n = 44). The protein levels of NGF, proNGF, p75NTR, Bax, Bcl-2 and furin were estimated by ELISA. Mean values of variables between different groups were compared using the independent sample t-test and associations were studied by Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS: The placental mature NGF, proNGF and p75NTR protein levels were comparable between groups. Bax: Bcl-2 ratio was higher in preterm (p < 0.05) compared to term placenta. p75NTR was positively associated with Bax levels and sortilin levels were positively associated with p75NTR in whole cohort as well as individual groups. DISCUSSION: The higher Bax: Bcl-2 ratio in preterm placenta suggests the sensitivity to apoptosis. There were no differences in levels of NGF, proNGF, p75NTR, sortilin, and furin between groups. The observed associations between p75NTR, sortilin and Bax suggest that p75NTR and sortilin mediated signalling may be involved in the mechanisms leading to higher apoptosis in preterm placentae.

The balance between cell survival and death in the placenta: Do neurotrophins have a role?

Neurotrophins (NT) are a closely related family of growth factors, which regulate the nervous system's development, maintenance, and function. Although NTs have been well studied in neuronal cells, they are also expressed in the placenta. Despite their suggested role in regulating fetoplacental development, their precise functional significance in the placenta remains elusive. NT activate two different classes of receptors. These include the Trk, tropomyosin-related kinase family of high-affinity tropomyosin-related kinase receptors, which induces cell survival, and the p75NTR, p75 neurotrophin receptor, a member of the tumor necrosis factor(TNF) receptor superfamily, which induces apoptosis in neuronal cells. Mature NT molecule results from proteolysis of a biologically active precursor form called pro-neurotrophins (pro-NT) by the intracellular proprotein convertase or furin. Pro-NTs have a regulatory role in determining cell survival and apoptosis. Here, we review the literature on the expression and functions of NTs and their receptors in the placenta and discuss their possible role in placental tissue development and apoptosis. The possible implications of imbalance in pro-NT and mature-NT levels for fetoplacental development are also discussed.Abbreviations AGE/ALEs: Advanced glycation/lipoxidation end products; Bax: Bcl 2 Associated X; Bcl-2: B-cell lymphoma 2; BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; FAS/FASL: Fas cell surface death receptor/ ligand; IUGR: Intrauterine growth restriction; JNK: c-Jun amino-terminal kinase; MAP: mitogen-activated protein k; mRNA: Messenger ribonucleic acid; NGF: Nerve growth factor; NT: Neurotrophins; NRAGE: Neurotrophin receptor-interacting MAGE homolog; NRIF: Neurotrophin receptor interacting factor; PE: Preeclampsia; PI3k: Phosphoinositide 3- kinase; PLC: Phospholipase C; p75NTR: p75 neurotrophin receptor; Pro-NT: Pro-neurotrophins; PTB: Preterm birth; p53: Tumor protein p53; TNF: Tumor necrosis factor; TRAF: TNFR-associated factors; Trk: Tropomyosin-related kinase; siRNA: small interfering ribonucleic acid.

Exploring AyuGenomics approach for understanding COVID-19 predisposition and progression.

Recent reports on COVID-19 suggest that, the susceptibility to COVID-19 infection and its progression have a genetic predisposition. Majorly associated genetic variants are found in human leukocyte antigen (HLA), angiotensin convertase enzyme (ACE; rs1799752: ACE2; rs73635825), and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS-2; rs12329760) genes. Identifying highly prone population having these variants is imperative for determining COVID-19 therapeutic strategies. Ayurveda (Indian traditional system of medicine) concept of Prakriti holds potential to predict genomic and phenotypic variations. Reported work on Prakriti correlates HLA-DR alleles with three broad phenotypes (Tridosha) described in Ayurveda (AyuGenomics). This is suggestive of differences in immune responses in individuals with specific constitutions. Therefore, the reported studies provide clues for clinically relevant hypotheses to be tested in systematic studies. The proposed approach of Ayurveda-based phenotype screening may offer a way ahead to design customized strategies for management of COVID-19 based on differences in Prakriti, immune response, and drug response. However, this needs clinical evaluation of the relation between Prakriti and genetic or phenotypic variants in COVID-19 prone and resistant populations.

Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Clinical Trial to Study Ashwagandha Administration in Participants Vaccinated Against COVID-19 on Safety, Immunogenicity, and Protection With COVID-19 Vaccine-A Study Protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Vaccines have emerged as the most effective tool in the fight against COVID-19. Governments all over the world have rolled out the COVID-19 vaccine program for their populations. Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine (COVISHIELD™) is widely used in India. A large number of Indian people have been consuming various traditional medicines in the hope of better protection against COVID-19 infection. Several studies have reported immunological benefits of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and its potential as a vaccine adjuvant. We propose to study the safety, immunogenicity and clinical protection offered by a 6-month regimen of Ashwagandha in participants who volunteer to be vaccinated against COVID-19 (COVISHIELDTM) in the ongoing national program of vaccination. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We designed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, two-arm, exploratory study on healthy volunteers receiving the COVISHIELDTM vaccine. The administration of Ashwagandha will begin within 7 days of the first or second dose of COVISHIELDTM. Primary outcome measure is immunogenicity as measured by SARS-CoV-2 spike (S1) and RBD-specific IgG antibody titres. Secondary outcome measures are safety, protective immune response and quality of life measures. All adverse events will be monitored at each time throughout the study. Participants will be tracked on a daily basis with a user-friendly mobile phone application. Following power calculation 600 participants will be recruited per arm to demonstrate superiority by a margin of 7% with 80% power. Study duration is 28 weeks with interim analysis at the end of 12 weeks. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval was obtained through the Central and Institutional Ethics Committees. Participant recruitment commenced in December 2021. Results will be presented in conferences and published in preprints followed by peer-reviewed medical journals. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: [www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [CTRI/2021/06/034496].

Corrigendum: Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Clinical Trial to Study Ashwagandha Administration in Participants Vaccinated Against COVID-19 on Safety, Immunogenicity, and Protection With COVID-19 Vaccine-A Study Protocol.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.761655.].

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Opportunity for Clinical Repurposing in COVID-19 Management.

As the COVID-19 pandemic is progressing, the therapeutic gaps in conventional management have highlighted the need for the integration of traditional knowledge systems with modern medicine. Ayurvedic medicines, especially Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, WS), may be beneficial in the management of COVID-19. WS is a widely prescribed Ayurvedic botanical known as an immunomodulatory, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic agent. The chemical profile and pharmacological activities of WS have been extensively reported. Several clinical studies have reported its safety for use in humans. This review presents a research synthesis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and discusses its potential for prophylaxis and management of COVID-19. We have collated the data from studies on WS that focused on viral infections (HIV, HSV, H1N1 influenza, etc.) and noncommunicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes, cancer, etc.). The experimental literature indicates that WS has the potential for 1) maintaining immune homeostasis, 2) regulating inflammation, 3) suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, 4) organ protection (nervous system, heart, lung, liver, and kidney), and 5) anti-stress, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic activities. Using these trends, the review presents a triangulation of Ayurveda wisdom, pharmacological properties, and COVID-19 pathophysiology ranging from viral entry to end-stage acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The review proposes WS as a potential therapeutic adjuvant for various stages of COVID-19 management. WS may also have beneficial effects on comorbidities associated with the COVID-19. However, systematic studies are needed to realize the potential of WS for improving clinical outcome of patients with COVID-19.

Ayurveda botanicals in COVID-19 management: An in silico multi-target approach.

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 has become a global pandemic in a very short time span. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine to counter this highly contagious disease. There is an urgent need to find a specific cure for the disease and global efforts are directed at developing SARS-CoV-2 specific antivirals and immunomodulators. Ayurvedic Rasayana therapy has been traditionally used in India for its immunomodulatory and adaptogenic effects, and more recently has been included as therapeutic adjuvant for several maladies. Amongst several others, Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari) play an important role in Rasayana therapy. The objective of this study was to explore the immunomodulatory and anti SARS-CoV2 potential of phytoconstituents from Ashwagandha, Guduchi and Shatavari using network pharmacology and docking. The plant extracts were prepared as per ayurvedic procedures and a total of 31 phytoconstituents were identified using UHPLC-PDA and mass spectrometry studies. To assess the immunomodulatory potential of these phytoconstituents an in-silico network pharmacology model was constructed. The model predicts that the phytoconstituents possess the potential to modulate several targets in immune pathways potentially providing a protective role. To explore if these phytoconstituents also possess antiviral activity, docking was performed with the Spike protein, Main Protease and RNA dependent RNA polymerase of the virus. Interestingly, several phytoconstituents are predicted to possess good affinity for the three targets, suggesting their application for the termination of viral life cycle. Further, predictive tools indicate that there would not be adverse herb-drug pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic interactions with concomitantly administered drug therapy. We thus make a compelling case to evaluate the potential of these Rasayana botanicals as therapeutic adjuvants in the management of COVID-19 following rigorous experimental validation.

Region-specific changes in the mRNA and protein expression of LCPUFA biosynthesis enzymes and transporters in the placentae of women with preeclampsia.

The biosynthesis and transport of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) require the activity of fatty acid desaturase (FADS) enzymes, fatty acid transport proteins (FATP) and fatty acid binding proteins (FABP). In a previous study we have demonstrated region-specific changes in the LCPUFA levels in preeclampsia (PE) as compared to the normotensive control (NC) placentae. AIM: To understand the region-specific changes in the mRNA levels and protein expression of biosynthesis enzymes and transporters of LCPUFA in PE and NC placentae. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 20 NC women and 44 women with PE (23 term (TPE) and 21 preterm PE (PTPE)) were recruited. The samples were collected from four regions of the placentae considering cord insertion as the center (CM, central maternal/basal; CF, central fetal/chorionic; PM, peripheral maternal/basal and PF, peripheral fetal/chorionic). The mRNA levels were estimated using qRT-PCR. Statistical analysis was done using both post hoc least significant difference (LSD) test and Benjamini Hochberg correction in the analysis of covariance. Preliminarily, localization and expression of proteins were studied by immunohistochemistry (n = 3/group). RESULTS: The mRNA levels of FADS1, FADS2 and FATP1 were lower in the central regions (CM and CF) of the PE placentae (both TPE and PTPE) as compared to NC. These differences in the mRNA levels were observed by the LSD test and were not significant after the Benjamini Hochberg correction. Preliminary findings of IHC indicate that the protein expression of FADS1 and FATP4 was higher in the basal regions (CM and PM) of the PE placentae as compared to NC. FADS1, FADS2 and FATP4 proteins were localized in the syncytiotrophoblasts, cytotrophoblasts, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells of the fetal capillaries and extravillous trophoblasts of the placenta. CONCLUSION: FADS enzymes are detected in the placentae of Indian women. In PE placentae, there are region-specific alterations in the mRNA and protein levels of LCPUFA biosynthesis enzymes (FADS1 and FADS2) and transporters (FATP1, FATP4 and FABP3) as compared to term NC. These changes were more pronounced toward the basal side and region around the cord insertion.

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: A potential therapeutic adjuvant in cancer.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) is one of the moststudied Rasayana botanicals used in Ayurveda practice for its immunomodulatory, anti-aging, adaptogenic, and rejuvenating effects. The botanical is being used for various clinical indications, including cancer. Several studies exploring molecular mechanisms of WS suggest its possible role in improving clinical outcomes in cancer management. Therefore, research on WS may offer new insights in rational development of therapeutic adjuvants for cancer. AIM OF THIS REVIEW: The review aims at providing a detailed analysis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies related to WS and cancer. It suggests possible role of WS in regulating molecular mechanisms associated with carcinogenesis. The review discusses potential of WS in cancer management in terms of cancer prevention, anti-cancer activity, and enhancing efficacy of cancer therapeutics. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present narrative review offers a critical analysis of published literature on WS studies in cancer. The reported studies were analysed in the context of pathophysiology of cancer, commonly referred as 'cancer hallmarks'. The review attempts to bridge Ayurveda knowledge with biological insights into molecular mechanisms of cancer. RESULTS: Critical analysisof the published literature suggests an anti-cancer potential of WS with a key role in cancer prevention. The possible mechanisms for these effects are associated with the modulation of apoptotic, proliferative, and metastatic markers in cancer. WS can attenuate inflammatory responses and enzymes involved in invasion and metastatic progression of cancer.The properties of WS are likely to be mediated through withanolides, which may activate tumor suppressor proteins to restrict proliferation of cancer cells. Withanolides also regulate the genomic instability, and energy metabolism of cancer cells. The reported studies indicate the need for deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms of WS in inhibiting angiogenesis and promoting immunosurveillance. Additionally, WS can augment efficacy and safety of cancer therapeutics. CONCLUSION: The experimentally-supported evidence of immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, adaptogenic, and regenerative attributes of WS suggest its therapeutic adjuvant potential in cancer management. The adjuvant properties of withanolides can modulate multidrug resistance and reverse chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression. These mechanisms need to be further explored in systematically designed translational and clinical studies that will pave the way for integration of WS as a therapeutic adjuvant in cancer management.

Increased intake of vitamin B12, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids to improve cognitive performance in offspring born to rats with induced hypertension during pregnancy.

Vitamin B12, folic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid levels are reported to be altered in women with preeclampsia. This study examined the effect of the above nutrients on brain neurotrophins and on the cognitive performance in adult offspring in a pregnancy-induced hypertension rat model. Pregnant dams were assigned to control, PIH-induced, and PIH-induced supplemented with vitamin B12, folate, omega-3 fatty acids, and the combined supplementation of vitamin B12, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids groups. In the PIH group, brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels (BDNF) were lower in the offspring at birth, while the adult offspring showed lower levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the hippocampus and BDNF (p < 0.05 for both) in the cortex as compared to in the control group. They also demonstrated higher (p < 0.05) escape latency in the Morris water maze test and performed a greater (p < 0.01 for all) number of errors in the Radial eight-arm maze test. A combined supplementation of vitamin B12, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids improved the levels of LCPUFA, neurotrophins, and cognition. A maternal diet consisting of high levels of folate, vitamin B12, and DHA reduced the risk for cognitive disorders in the adult offspring in an animal model of pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Distribution of Fatty Acids and Lipids During Pregnancy.

Maternal fatty acid and lipid metabolism undergoes changes during pregnancy to facilitate fetal growth and development. Different types of fatty acids have different roles in maintaining a successful pregnancy and they are incorporated into different forms of lipids for the purpose of storage and transport. This chapter aims to provide an understanding of the distribution and metabolism of fatty acids and lipids in the maternal, placental, and fetal compartments. We further describe how this distribution is altered in maternal obesity, preterm birth, and pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Variable Methylation Potential in Preterm Placenta: Implication for Epigenetic Programming of the Offspring.

Children born preterm are reported to be at increased risk of developing noncommunicable diseases in later life. Altered placental DNA methylation patterns are implicated in fetal programming of adult diseases. Our earlier animal studies focus on micronutrients (folic acid, vitamin B12) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) that interact in the 1 carbon cycle, thereby influencing methylation reactions. Our previous studies in women delivering preterm show altered plasma levels of micronutrients and lower plasma LCPUFA levels. We postulate that alterations in the micronutrient metabolism may affect the regulation of enzymes, methionine adenosyltransferase ( MAT2A), and SAH-hydrolase ( AHCY), involved in the production of methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), thereby influencing the methylation potential (MP) in the placenta of women delivering preterm. The present study, therefore, examines the mRNA, protein levels of enzymes ( MAT2A and AHCY), SAM, S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) levels, and global DNA methylation levels from preterm (n = 73) and term (n = 73) placentae. The enzyme messenger RNA (mRNA) levels were analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, protein levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and SAM-SAH levels by high-performance liquid chromatography. The mRNA levels for MAT2A and AHCY are higher ( P < .05 for both) in the preterm group as compared to the term group. S-Adenosylmethionine and SAH levels were similar in both groups, although SAM:SAH ratio was lower ( P < .05) in the preterm group as compared to the term group. The global DNA methylation levels were higher ( P < .05) in women delivering small for gestation age infants as compared to women delivering appropriate for gestation age infants at term. Our data showing lower MP in the preterm placenta may have implications for the epigenetic programming of the developing fetus.

Hypermethylated CpG sites in the MTR gene promoter in preterm placenta.

AIM: Altered maternal one-carbon metabolism influences placental DNA methylation patterns and 'programs' the fetus for noncommunicable diseases in adult life. EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES: Levels of plasma folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, mRNA and protein levels of MTHFR and MTR enzymes in placenta were compared among women delivering preterm (n = 83) and term (n = 75). MTR promoter CpG methylation was undertaken. RESULTS: MTHFR and MTR mRNA levels were higher while protein levels were lower, and MTR CpG sites were hypermethylated in the preterm group, as compared with the term group. Methylated CpG sites were negatively associated with maternal plasma vitamin B12 levels. CONCLUSION: Study suggests a dysregulation of enzyme genes in remethylation arm of the one-carbon metabolism in placenta of women delivering preterm.

Altered development and function of the placental regions in preeclampsia and its association with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The placenta is an essential organ formed during pregnancy that mainly transfers nutrients from the mother to the fetus. Nutrients taken up by the placenta are required for its own growth and development and to optimize fetal growth. Hence, placental function is an important determinant of pregnancy outcome. Among various nutrients, fatty acids, especially long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), including omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, are essential for placental development from the time of implantation. Studies have associated these LCPUFAs with placental development through their roles in regulating oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and inflammation, which may in turn influence their transfer to the fetus. The placenta has a heterogeneous morphology with variable regional vasculature, oxidative stress, and LCPUFA levels in healthy pregnancies depending upon the location within the placenta. However, these regional structural and functional parameters are found to be disturbed in pathological conditions, such as preeclampsia (PE), thereby affecting pregnancy outcome. Hence, the alterations in LCPUFA metabolism and transport in different regions of the PE placenta as compared with normal placenta could potentially be contributing to the pathological features of PE. The regional variations in development and function of the placenta and its possible association with placental LCPUFA metabolism and transport in normal and PE pregnancies are discussed in this review. WIREs Dev Biol 2016, 5:582-597. doi: 10.1002/wdev.238 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.